CFDA and Vogue to Launch “United Flags of Fashion” in Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary
The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and Vogue have announced the launch of a new public art initiative, United Flags of Fashion, in collaboration with America250 and Rockefeller Center.
The project has been created to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. Leading American designers and brands have been invited to participate by creating original flag designs that reinterpret the flags of all 50 U.S. states, five U.S. territories, and Washington, D.C., through their own creative perspectives.
The installation will take place at Rockefeller Center, one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. From July 27 through September 4, 2026, more than 120 custom-designed flags will be displayed on the flagpoles surrounding The Rink, transforming the public space into a large-scale celebration of American creativity and culture.
Summary
- CFDA, Vogue, America250, and Rockefeller Center have announced the launch of “United Flags of Fashion” to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States
- More than 120 leading American designers and brands will create original flag designs reimagining the flags of all 50 states, five U.S. territories, and Washington, D.C.
- The installation will be on view from July 27 through September 4, 2026, on the flagpoles surrounding The Rink at Rockefeller Center in New York City
- Participating designers and brands include Ralph Lauren, Thom Browne, Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Willy Chavarria, and many others representing the breadth of American fashion
- Following the exhibition, all flags will be donated to the SCAD Museum of Art for preservation and future public exhibition
Celebrating America’s Diversity Through Fashion
Through this initiative, each participating designer has been invited to reinterpret a specific state or territorial flag, transforming familiar symbols into original artistic expressions. The project aims to reflect the cultural heritage, histories, and diverse perspectives that shape communities across the United States while showcasing contemporary American creativity.
The roster of participants includes some of the most influential names in American fashion, including Ralph Lauren, Thom Browne, Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Coach, Willy Chavarria, Bode, Area, Luar, Peter Do, Prabal Gurung, and Vera Wang, among many others.
In addition, the Vogue flag was created by artist Hazel Zavala. Drawing inspiration from America’s quilt-making traditions and contemporary abstract art, the design offers a fresh interpretation of the Stars and Stripes.
The CFDA flag was commissioned from illustrator Ruben Toledo, while the Rockefeller Center flag was designed by Nell Diamond, founder and CEO of the lifestyle brand Hill House Home.
Highlighting the Cultural Significance of American Fashion
Commenting on the initiative, Anna Wintour, Global Editorial Director of Vogue and Chief Content Officer of Condé Nast, said: “The flags are a reminder of how creativity and making beautiful things are twin sources of national pride. All the fashion designers we spoke to were thrilled to make flags, and they took to the project joyfully. The result is a tribute to the country’s anniversary we can all be proud of.”
Steven Kolb, CEO and President of the CFDA, emphasized fashion’s role in shaping American culture: “This moment in history provides us with a unique chance to honor the imagination, ingenuity, and diversity that embody the American spirit. Fashion has long contributed to our nation’s story—showcasing its resilience, celebrating individuality, and influencing cultures – and the CFDA is proud to be a part of the America250 celebration.”
EB Kelly, Senior Managing Director at Tishman Speyer and Head of Rockefeller Center, highlighted the site’s long-standing relationship with art and fashion: “Rockefeller Center’s campus is a stage for designers, artists, and brands to reimagine how culture is experienced in New York City. America250: United Flags of Fashion honors the spirit of American creativity and craftsmanship while continuing Rockefeller Center’s legacy as a destination where art, fashion, and public life intersect.”
Rosie Rios, Chair of America250, added: “Fashion has always been a powerful expression of America’s creativity, identity, and cultural evolution. As we commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary, United Flags of Fashion offers a bold and inspiring tribute to the artistry that defines the American spirit. Through the vision of these extraordinary designers, this installation will invite Americans and visitors from around the world to see our shared story reflected through the lens of fashion and design.”
All Flags to Be Donated to the SCAD Museum of Art
Following the conclusion of the exhibition, all flags created for United Flags of Fashion will be donated to the SCAD Museum of Art in Savannah, Georgia. The works will be preserved for future public display, ensuring that the project’s cultural significance extends beyond the duration of the installation.
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, United Flags of Fashion positions fashion not merely as a commercial industry, but as a powerful vehicle for cultural expression, identity, and creativity. Set against the backdrop of one of New York City’s most recognizable public spaces, the installation is poised to become a landmark celebration of the diversity and creative spirit that define American fashion.
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