Within the Gilded Age walls of the Fifth Avenue Hotel, the Accessories Council revealed the winners of its Design Excellence Awards Monday morning. The eighth annual celebration recognized individuals, brands, companies and products that are modernizing and elevating standards across the accessories industry.
“The Design Excellence Awards continue to gain momentum each year, reflecting the extraordinary talent, creativity and innovation across our industry,” said Karen Giberson, president and chief executive officer of the council. “From emerging designers to established global brands, this year’s winners demonstrate how thoughtful design, craftsmanship and innovation continue to inspire consumers and shape the future of accessories.”
The 2026 Hall of Fame Award, which recognizes a brand that has created a lasting legacy, was presented to Hearts on Fire, which is celebrating its 30th year anniversary. Owned by Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, the Boston-based brand has homed in on offering a fresh perspective to the natural diamond industry.
Courtesy of the Accessories Council.
Since its founding in 1994, the not-for-profit Accessories Council has worked to support and increase exposure within the accessory industry. One way it does this is through introducing new categories that spotlight overlooked areas of accessories.
In a time when 97 percent of the U.S. purchased garments are produced offshore, according to historical data from the American Apparel & Footwear Association, the council is focusing on what is Made in the USA, adding the category to its awards this year. The winner was Armando Allende, a U.S. Army veteran who designs luxury handbags in New Jersey. The product that won is his Nexus drawstring handbag made of Premium Vachetta leather, goatskin leather and suede, featuring intricate, sculptural weaving.
Another honoree was New Balance, which received the 2026 Circana Top Item Award for its 9060 sneaker, recognizing the product for its performance and consumer resonance. Reinterpreting 99X elements, the 9060 is futuristic with its wavy lines and scaled up proportions, while maintaining present-day wearability.
Courtesy of the Accessories Council.
A combination of industry expertise and public voting helped determine the winners this year. The finalists were selected by Accessories Council’s board of directors and members of the press, with consideration given to everything from design and innovation to consumer appeal and sustainability.
Fashionphile, Marchon, Caleres and Perfect sponsored this year’s awards, with Marchon Eyewear designing the custom-made trophies presented to the winners.
The Accessories Council’s 2026 Design Excellence Awards winners are:
Brand Collaborations
Winner: Jane Win x GIADZY
Product: Gratitude Citrus Tile Original Pendant Coin
Eyewear, Optical – Independent (1-2 Brands)
Winner: Blake Kuwahara Eyewear
Product: Rhodes
Eyewear, Optical – Multi-Brand (3 or More Brands)
Winner: Kendra Scott
Product: KE2625
Eyewear, Sun – Independent (1-2 Brands)
Winner: House of Modo
Product: Lowercase Broadway
Eyewear, Sun – Multi-Brand (3 or More Brands)
Winner: Miu Miu
Product: Mu C07SU
Fashion Jewelry (Under $100)
Winner: Ramy Brook
Product: Evil Eye Malachite Charm
Fashion Jewelry (Over $100) – Tie
Winner: Armine & Ambrose
Product: The A-Chain Necklace
Winner: Christina Greene
Product: Canyon Creek Turquoise Lariat Necklace
Fine Jewelry (Under $10,000)
Winner: Rachel Katz Jewelry
Product: Luxe Bird Bam Mahjong Tile Necklace
Fine Jewelry (Over $10,000)
Winner: Lagos
Product: Fizz Cluster Diamond Tennis Bracelet
Footwear (Under $250)
Winner: Rothy’s
Product: The Ivy Sneaker
Footwear (Over $250)
Winner: Allen Edmonds
Product: Miller Reserve Penny Loafer
General Accessories (Soft Accessories, Scarves, SLGs, Gloves, Belts, Hats and Umbrellas)
Winner: Vera Bradley
Product: Brush Up Cosmetic Case
Handbags (Under $1,000)
Winner: Michael Kors
Product: Nolita Medium Hand-Woven Leather Chain Pochette
Handbags (Over $1,000)
Winner: Sahra Atelier
Product: La Luna Rose
Made in the USA
Winner: Armando Allende
Product: Nexus
Millinery and Hair Accessories
Winner: Colette Malouf
Product: Pearl Wave Mini Comb
Social Impact and Sustainability
Winner: Jenny Bird
Product: The Possibilities Fund Pendant
Tech and Innovation (Smart and Tech Accessories, Including Luxury and Fashion Watches)
Winner: Simon G. Jewelry
Product: Trellis Diamond Smart Ring Jacket in 14-karat Gold