On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the Accessories Council hosted the 30th annual Accessories Council Excellence (ACE) Awards at The Pierre Hotel in NYC. The event honoring the fashion accessories industry brought together eyewear, style, and accessories leaders and celebrities for a glamorous evening filled with energy and emotion.
The eyewear industry’s Marcolin and EssilorLuxottica both received ACE Awards. EssilorLuxottica received the ACE Awards’ Pioneering Spirit Award—presented by The TODAY Show’s Bobbie Thomas and accepted on behalf of the company by Fabrizio Uguzzoni, President, Professional Solutions of the Americas. In addition, Marcolin was recognized as a Legacy Honoree, celebrating the company’s 65-year milestone—the award was accepted on behalf of the company by CEO Marco D’Acunzo.
Established in 1996, the ACE Awards recognize the visionary designers, brands, retailers, and media professionals who have significantly impacted the accessories industry. This year, the milestone 30th-anniversary gala honored leaders driving innovation, sustainability, and growth in a dynamic retail landscape.
Here, we share the full lineup of ACE Awardees below:
THE 2026 ACE HONOREES
ACE WINNERS
Brand Innovation – Monica Rich Kosann
Innovation – Sara Blakely, Sneex
Merchant of the Year – Nata Dvir, Macy’s
Pioneering Spirit – EssilorLuxottica
Social Impact – Blake Mycoskie, We Are Enough
Specialty Retailer – Marissa Collections
Style Influencer – Tamron Hall
Visionary – Todd Kahn, Coach
Betsey Johnson Iconoclast Award – Julia Fox
LEGACY HONOREES
Marcolin – 65 Years
Melinda Maria – 20 Years
Nanis – 35 Years