Maria Grazia Chiuri to receive the Swarovski Award for Positive Change

The 53-year-old fashion designer is set to be honoured with the accolade at the star-studded bash in partnership with Swarovski, which will take place at London’s Albert Hall on Monday (04.12.17), for her contribution to women’s empowerment in the fashion industry, as she is the first female to hold the title of Creative Director at Dior. And the creative mastermind - who previously helmed the Italian fashion house Valentino - is “delighted” to be selected for the gong, which she hopes will inspire other women. Maria said: “I am delighted and very honoured to receive the Swarovski Award for Positive Change. The feminist movement that has been mine for the longest time has finally struck a resonant chord in society, and this recognition sends a powerful message to all women battling on a daily basis.” Maria is the second figure in the business to receive the honour, which was presented for the first time in 2016 to the late Franca Sozzani. And the mogul thinks her award is the perfect time to pay tribute to the Editor-in-Chief at Vogue Italia, who tragically passed away last year aged 66 years old. Maria added: “It also offers a timely opportunity to pay tribute to Franca Sozzani who, last year, was the recipient of the very first award.” And the British Fashion Council believe Maria’s deserves the title because of her “determination” to encourage females to “believe in themselves”, and for being a “great inspiration” to people across the globe. Dame Natalie Massenet - who is the Chairman of BFC - said: “With this award, Maria Grazia will be celebrated for her successful creative achievements, her contribution to female empowerment within fashion and her determination to encourage women of future generations to believe in themselves. The positive impact she has had on the fashion and global communities makes her a great inspiration to all of us.”