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The Accessories Council said Monday it will return this fall with its sixth Design Excellence Awards, taking place on Nov. 4 at the Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York City.  

This year, the council is expanding the awards ceremony with new categories, such as independent eyewear for optical and sun and fashion jewelry under $100. This year’s Hall of Fame honor will also go to watch brand Citizen, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Citizen is also the first watch brand to receive the Accessories Council’s Hall of Fame honor.

“The Accessories Council is thrilled to celebrate the 2024 Design Excellence Award winners with a formal awards program at an incredible new venue,” said Karen Giberson, president and chief executive officer of the Accessories Council. “With expanded categories in eyewear, fashion and fine jewelry, we are excited to include and recognize the amazing work of more independent designers.” 

Citizen x Nissan Z - Fairlady Z watch Seiran Blue.

Citizen x Nissan Z – Fairlady Z watch Seiran Blue. Courtesy of Citizen

The Accessories Council is also bringing back the Brand Collaboration Award, which was first introduced last year and awarded to Stuart Weitzman and Aknvas.  

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Other awards categories include handbags (over and under $1,000), eyewear (sun and optical), footwear (over and under $250), jewelry (fashion and fine), general accessories, technology and innovation, social impact and sustainability. 

Brands are able to submit themselves for awards categories until Aug. 30. Finalists will then be revealed on Sept. 10. Winners are then determined through public voting. This year’s sponsors include Marchon Eyewear, Fashionphile and FashionGo.