**Julia Fox Inspires the Next Generation of Fashion Enthusiasts at the ACE Awards**
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Julia Fox recently shared invaluable guidance for budding fashion enthusiasts during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the Accessories Council ACE Awards. The actress and model, who has built a reputation for her bold fashion choices, emphasised the importance of trusting one’s instincts and remaining authentic within the industry.
At the prestigious event held at the Pierre Hotel in New York City on May 5, Fox, who was adorned in a striking yellow Betsey Johnson dress from the Spring 2008 collection, urged young individuals eager to carve out their niche in fashion to embrace their true selves. “Don’t overthink,” she advised. “Your first instinct is always the right one. Go with your gut. Don’t worry too much about what others think. If you like it, others likely will too, and that’s how trends begin.”
Joining Fox on the red carpet was the iconic designer Betsey Johnson, who echoed her sentiments. “That’s absolutely it for me. I never sought validation from anyone. If I liked what I was creating, I trusted there were others out there who would appreciate it too,” Johnson shared.
Their conversation centred around the challenges many face when developing a personal style in an increasingly critical and visible environment. Fox continued by highlighting the necessity of perseverance in the fashion world: “You have to work hard. You’ve got to work your arse off. Keep showing up and putting yourself out there, no matter how that manifests,” she stated.
Fox further encouraged the younger generation to embrace the sometimes awkward nature of trying out new things, including social media engagement. “If you think it’s cheesy or cringe-worthy, who cares? Anyone who criticises you is likely just envious of your courage,” she remarked, promoting a message of resilience and self-confidence.
At this year’s awards ceremony, Betsey Johnson presented Fox with the esteemed Betsey Johnson Iconoclast Award. Fox humuorously acknowledged Johnson’s vibrant personality, joking about her inability to perform acrobatics to match Johnson’s renowned skills. “I’m sorry I can’t do any cartwheels or splits,” said Fox, leading to laughter from the audience before she expressed her gratitude. “Thank you so much, Betsey. It’s an honour to be in the same room with you, let alone receiving an award from you,” she added sincerely.
In a charming nod to her past, Fox shared a cheeky anecdote about frequenting Johnson’s Madison Avenue store during her youth. “I used to shoplift,” she quipped, claiming the clothes were simply too alluring to resist.
In addition to Fox, other distinguished recipients at the Accessories Council ACE Awards included media personality Tamron Hall, Spanx founder Sara Blakely, jewellery designer Monica Rich Kosann, and various prominent industry figures, showcasing the breadth of talent celebrated that evening.
President and CEO of the Accessories Council, Karen Gilberson, remarked on the significance of the event, which commemorated three decades of service and dedication to the fashion industry. “Thirty years is traditionally known as the Pearl anniversary, and pearls, as we know, are formed layer by layer over time. It’s a pleasure to look back on the layers of history our Council has built with so many of you,” she explained.
Gilberson continued to highlight the organisation’s lasting impact, acknowledging that sustaining an event for three decades is no small accomplishment. “It speaks to resilience, evolution, and an unwavering dedication to serving an industry we all cherish,” she concluded, summarising the evening’s celebrations.
As the night unfolded, the guidance and spirited anecdotes shared by Fox and Johnson left an enduring impression on those present, inspiring a new generation to stay true to themselves and embrace their unique fashion sensibilities.