NEW YORK (December 1, 2023)
Sam and Libby Edelman, founders of iconic contemporary lifestyle brand, Sam Edelman, were honored at the 37th annual Footwear News Achievement Awards (FNAAs) last Wednesday evening with one of the footwear industry’s highest honors: The Lifetime Achievement Award. For 37 years, the FNAAs has celebrated the rising stars and industry legends in footwear who have creatively defined the industry and provided fresh perspectives, compelling designs, attention- grabbing stories, company growth, and more.
President and CEO of Caleres, Jay Schmidt, remarked “I’m really thrilled that Sam and Libby are being honored with the Lifetime Achievement award. It is truly deserved as they have dedicated the majority of their lives to continuously creating dynamic footwear that women love. As they celebrate 20 years with their Sam Edelman brand next year, they remain leaders in the global fashion footwear market, with more excitement and growth to come. I can speak on behalf of everyone at Caleres in saying that Sam and Libby’s creativity, passion and connection to their consumer continually inspires us.”
Kate Upton, who served as the face of the brand’s first major campaign in 2013, presented the award to Sam and Libby. Kate was featured in not just one, but three major Sam Edelman campaigns, forming a lifelong relationship with the husband and wife, designer-duo. The 2023 FNAAs were held at Cipriani South Street in NYC and recognized the most influential names in footwear today.
“The FNAAs are the industry’s highest honor, and they acknowledge the most important accomplishments of the year,” said Michael Atmore, Editorial Director of Footwear News and Chief Brand Officer of Fairchild Media Group. “Despite a very challenging 2023, this year’s class of winners reflects the incredible innovation, design prowess and business acumen. Our Lifetime Achievement winners and Hall of Fame inductees are shining examples of highly impactful careers. We are honored to celebrate each of the winners for showing us what success looks like.”
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