Kenneth Cole partners with the CFDA to create a one-of-a-kind program.
In celebration of a rich heritage of brand innovation and social impact, Kenneth Cole Productions and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) have created the Kenneth Cole Footwear + Accessory Innovation Program. It’s a unique opportunity for postgraduates to receive a 12-month, full-time placement at Kenneth Cole by submitting a portfolio containing a collection of footwear and accessory designs that also has a social or community-based component. This year’s two winners, Blake Felty and Kara Kroeger, attended the 2016 CFDA Fashion Awards as guests of Kenneth Cole. They’ll soon start their year-long placement at our company, at which time they’ll work rotationally within various areas of our design team. Click through our slideshow to see photos of them getting ready for the 2016 CFDA Fashion Awards.

Blake Felty, a winner of the Kenneth Cole Footwear and Accessory Innovation Award, choosing the suit he’ll wear to attend the CFDA Awards.

A recent graduate of FIT, Blake is excited to see what his one-year fellowship at Kenneth Cole has in store for him.

Too many choices can be a good thing, especially when deciding what shoes to wear to your first-ever CFDA event.

Style fact: Shoelaces on a dress shoe should be tied neat and tight.

Recent graduate from Kent State, Kara gets ready for her big night.

Of all days, Kara knows today is not a dress rehearsal.

A quick touch-up before heading to the awards.

A Kenneth Cole associate jumping in to help Blake look perfect for his red carpet moment.

Photographic evidence that you should always keep your suit slim and fitted.

Blake, Kara, and their respective red carpet-ready looks.
Kara and Blake are red carpet ready for the 2016 CFDA Fashion Awards.
