Nina Christen Stresses 'Nothing Is Impossible' Philosophy When Receiving Designer of the Year Award from June Ambrose at 2025 FNAAs

During the 2025 Footwear News Achievement Awards held at Cipriani 25 Broadway in New York City on December 3, Nina Christen was honored with the Designer of the Year Award, presented by June Ambrose.

In her remarks, Ambrose stated, A remarkable shoe can alter your posture, but a visionary shoe designer can transform your perspective entirely. Tonight, I have the joy of celebrating someone whose creativity has continually influenced my own work.

Ambrose praised Christens accomplishments, noting her leadership as the design director of shoes at Dior and her own self-titled label: Ninas designs are etched into some of the most unforgettable footwear moments in contemporary fashion. She navigates effortlessly between sculptural sophistication and playful ingenuity. Every fashion house that collaborates with her experiences a transformation long before she begins developing her own signature collection.

She continued, Ive admired Nina for her talent in blending craftsmanship with attitude, intelligence with audacity. Her creations do more than complement an outfitthey provoke thought, alter the ambiance, and turn style into an experience. Beyond her talent, Nina embodies the true spirit of an artist: curious, humble, witty, and endlessly inventive. Tonight, I am honored to celebrate not only a phenomenal designer but also a dear friend.

Upon receiving the award, Christen expressed her gratitude, saying, I am not often one to speak publicly, so its a pleasure to share these words with you. She emphasized her creative philosophy, explaining, Nothing is impossible has always driven me. I first encountered this idea at a heel factory when attempting a design I thought unachievable. A craftsman reminded me, We built Venice on waternothing is impossible. This mindset inspires my work every day, no matter how ambitious the idea.

Christen also thanked several individuals who influenced her journey, concluding with her father, who instilled in her the belief that no idea is beyond reach.

Now in its 39th year, the Footwear News Achievement Awards, often dubbed the Shoe Oscars, celebrate industry leaders, emerging talents, philanthropists, and notable brand stories. The 2025 event received support from Caleres, Listrak, Nordstrom, Skechers, Vibram, and Wolverine Worldwide.

Author: Sophia Brooks