A$AP Rocky to Receive Vanguard Award for Fashion at NAACP Image Awards

The music artist, actor, and 2025 Met Gala co-chair will be honored for his contributions to style.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 4:23pm

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A$AP Rocky, the acclaimed music artist, actor, and creative director, will be awarded the Vanguard Award for Fashion at the 57th NAACP Image Awards Fashion Show on February 27. The BET executive Connie Orlando praised Rocky's influence, stating that he has "reshaped how culture, music, art and personal expression intersect on a global stage." Rocky has also starred in several recent films and released a new album in January.

Why it matters

The NAACP Image Awards are a prestigious event that celebrates the achievements of Black artists, entertainers, and leaders. Honoring A$AP Rocky with the Vanguard Award for Fashion recognizes his significant impact on fashion and culture, particularly among the younger generation.

The details

A$AP Rocky, known for his bold and innovative style, will be feted at the 57th NAACP Image Awards Fashion Show on February 27 for his contributions to the world of fashion. In addition to his music career, Rocky has also found success as an actor, starring in films like "Highest 2 Lowest" and "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You." He also serves as the creative director for Ray-Ban and PUMA, and helms his own creative agency, AWGE. The NAACP Image Awards will take place at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 28 and will air on BET and CBS.

  • A$AP Rocky will receive the Vanguard Award for Fashion at the 57th NAACP Image Awards Fashion Show on February 27, 2026.
  • The NAACP Image Awards ceremony will take place at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 28, 2026.

The players

A$AP Rocky

A music artist, actor, and 2025 Met Gala co-chair who is being honored with the Vanguard Award for Fashion at the NAACP Image Awards for his contributions to style and culture.

Connie Orlando

A BET executive who praised A$AP Rocky's influence and impact on culture, music, art, and personal expression.

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What they’re saying

“A$AP Rocky represents the fearless evolution of Black creativity. His influence extends far beyond fashion. He has reshaped how culture, music, art and personal expression intersect on a global stage. The NAACP honoring him with the Vanguard Award celebrates not only his style, but his vision, leadership and lasting impact on the next generation of creators.”

— Connie Orlando, BET Executive (UPI)

What’s next

The NAACP Image Awards ceremony, where A$AP Rocky will receive the Vanguard Award for Fashion, will take place on February 28, 2026.

The takeaway

A$AP Rocky's recognition with the prestigious Vanguard Award for Fashion at the NAACP Image Awards underscores his profound influence on fashion, culture, and the next generation of creators. This honor celebrates his bold, innovative style and his ability to reshape the intersection of music, art, and personal expression on a global scale.