(Filed Under Fashion News). The 31st annual American Image Awards will be held May 12th at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City.

This year’s honorees are Blake Krueger, CEO and president of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. to receive the Excellence in Lifestyle Branding award; Mike George, CEO and president of QVC, Inc., to receive the Retailer of the Year award; Gilbert Harrison, founder and chairman of Financo, Inc., will be presented the Lifetime Achievement award; Norma Kamali will accept the Designer of the Year award; Scott Beaumont, CEO of Lilly Pulitzer, will accept the Spirit of a Woman award on behalf of the company; and Barbie will be honored with the Fashion Maverick award in honor of her 50th year.

“This year’s honorees represent the very top leadership of the industry, even Barbie!” said Kevin Burke, president and CEO of the American Apparel and Footwear Association. “We are very proud to honor their excellent accomplishments and to also highlight and benefit the good works of the Educational Foundation for the Fashion Industries.”

The Educational Foundation for the Fashion Industries is the charitable body of Fashion Institute of Technology and represents this year’s charity partner to receive 40 percent of the net proceeds. Tables/sponsorships start at $5,000 and go up to $50,000.

Wolverine World Wide, Inc. manufactures shoes under its brands, which include Cat, Merrell, Harley-Davidson shoes, Hush Puppies, Patagonia Footwear, Wolverine, Track’n Trail, Sebago, Chaco, Hytest Safety Footwear, Bates, Cushe Footwear and Soft Style Shoes.

Founded in 1986, QVC, a holly owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation, is one of the largest multimedia retailers, which broadcasts 24 hours a day, 364 days a year. The retailer offers apparel, jewelry and beauty, among other categories.

Financo, Inc. is an investment banking firm solely dedicated to the merchandising sector, and it describes itself as the first boutique investment banking firm to serve this sector specifically.

Norma Kamali is a designer offering gowns, coats, leggings, accessories and swimwear. Last fall, Norma Kamali designed a line for Wal-Mart.

Lilly Pulitzer is known for her ready-to-wear done in vibrant colors and prints.

For tickets, call (845) 758-5749 or e-mail AmericanImageAwards@Frontier.net.

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Published 04-30-2009 by Bruna Fernandes