Michael Kors was presented with a prestigious award for his services to fashion on Wednesday (04.09.13).
The American fashion designer was honoured by the Couture Council of the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.) when he was given the 2013 Award for Artistry of Fashion.
The prize was presented to Michael, 54, by Oscar-winning actress Hilary Swank, and by becoming a recipient, he joins an elite list of fellow fashion designers including Karl Lagerfeld, Oscar de la Renta and Ralph Rucci.
Introducing the award winner at the ceremony in New York City, 'Million Dollar Baby' star Hilary said: "His instinct for fashion was evident early on. At age five, he advised his mother to cut the bows off her over- the-top wedding dress. He's come a long way since F.I.T. He is the king of American sportswear, he understands glamour and sex appeal, he understands the idea of being smart and pragmatic all at once."
In his acceptance speech, Michael was modest about his achievements in fashion, admitting he hasn't grafted his way to the top like many of his fellow style gurus.
He said: "Let's be frank, I don't have the traditional background that most designers have. I never worked for another designer picking up pins, I didn't finish school. I am a nightmare at the sewing machine. The ethos of my design philosophy has always been rooted in reality, not in pure fantasy ... I always believed the minute you think you've made it, you're done. Well, guess what, I'm not done."
Tagged in Hilary Swank Karl Lagerfeld Michael Kors