A$AP Rocky is set receive the NAACP Image Awards‘ Vanguard Award for Fashion, solidifying the multihyphenate artist’s status as the ultimate “fashion killa.”
The award salutes the Grammy-nominated rapper, actor and entrepreneur for his contributions to fashion and culture, from redefining streetwear to pushing the boundaries of high fashion. Previous Vanguard Award honorees include Essence, designer June Ambrose, fashion model Bethann Hardison and Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter.
“This year’s Vanguard Award honoree, A$AP Rocky, embodies the power and evolution of Black artistry. As a creative force who consistently pushes culture forward, he has redefined the intersection of music and fashion, shaping global trends and inspiring new generations,” said Karen Boykin-Towns, vice chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors. “Honoring A$AP Rocky with the Vanguard Award celebrates his lasting influence, and the legacy he continues to build.”
In the fashion world, Rocky is currently the creative director of both Ray-Ban and PUMA and he was also the first Black male face of Dior Homme. His creative agency AWGE has partnerships with Marine Serre, Amina Muaddi, Selfridges, JW Anderson and MTV, as well as launching the careers of notable artists like Playboi Carti, slowthai and Smooky MarGielaa. Last year, Rocky co-chaired the Met Gala, themed “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” and he also received the CFDA Fashion Icon Award.
Rocky is also nominated for three NAACP Image Awards for his acting role in Spike Lee’s latest film “Highest 2 Lowest.” In the movie, which earned nine Image Award nods, Rocky delivers a breakout performance opposite Denzel Washington and Jeffrey Wright. He also received nominations at the Gothams and the Black Reel awards for his performance. Plus, earlier this month, he released his long-awaited fourth studio album “Don’t Be Dumb,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.
“A$AP Rocky represents the fearless evolution of Black creativity,” added Connie Orlando, executive VP of specials, music programming & music strategy at BET. “His influence extends far beyond fashion. He has reshaped how culture, music, art, and personal expression intersect on a global stage. The NAACP honoring him with the Vanguard Award celebrates not only his style, but his vision, leadership, and lasting impact on the next generation of creators.”
The Vanguard award will be presented at the Image Awards fashion show on Friday, Feb. 27, ahead of the 57th NAACP Image Awards telecast on Saturday, Feb. 28. The annual awards ceremony will be broadcast live on BET and CBS.
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