The Accessories Council (Ac) has announced the honorees for the 2026 Accessories Council Excellence (ACE) Awards, set to take place on May 5 at the Pierre Hotel in New York City. This year’s gala marks the 30th anniversary of the event, which recognizes individuals, brands, and companies making significant contributions to the accessories industry.
The 2026 honorees include:
-
Brand Innovation: Monica Rich Kosann
-
Innovation: Sara Blakely, Founder of Sneex
-
Merchant of the Year: Nata Dvir, chief merchandising officer, Macy’s
-
Pioneering Spirit: EssilorLuxottica
-
Social Impact: Blake Mycoskie, Founder of ENOUGH
-
Specialty Retailer: Marissa Collections
-
Style Influencer: Tamron Hall, Broadcaster, Journalist, Talk Show Host, Author
-
Visionary: Todd Kahn, CEO & Brand President, Coach
The ACE Awards will also recognize Legacy Honorees, including Marcolin, celebrating 65 years, and Nanis, marking 35 years in business. Additional award announcements, including the 2026 Betsey Johnson Iconoclast Award recipient, will be shared in the coming weeks.
“For over three decades, The Ac has celebrated the art and advocated for the progress, perseverance, and protection of the accessories industry,” said Ac President and CEO Karen Giberson. “The ACE Awards were founded in 1996 to recognize excellence, legacy, and the emerging trends and designers shaping the retail space. It’s hard to believe what started as a love affair with handbags has led to the awards’ milestone 30th anniversary amidst impactful crossroads for our industry.”
The ACE Awards have historically honored designers, brands, retailers, celebrities, and media who have contributed to the growth of the accessories market. Past recipients include Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Coach, Tom Ford Eyewear, Tiffany & Co., VSP Vision, and Lady Gaga, among others.