Queen Bey can add fashion icon to her résumé.
The singer was presented with the CFDA Fashion Icon Award during the 2016 CFDA Awards in New York City on Monday (Jun. 6), and she used that moment to reflect on the power of fashion as a “tool for finding your own identity.”
During the ceremony at Hammerstein Ballroom, she also made sure to note that fashion can be much more. “We have the opportunity to contribute to a society where any girl can look at a billboard or magazine cover and see her own reflection,” said Bey, who wore a sparkly Givenchy suit and $9 million in jewelry. “Soul has no color, no shape, no form. Just like all of your work, it goes far beyond what the eye can see. You have the power to change perception, to inspire and empower, and to show people how to embrace their complications, and see the flaws, and the true beauty and strength that’s inside all of us.”
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Bey’s mom Tina Lawson was there to celebrate her daughter, and she looked on with tears as she was thanked during the speech. “My mother who is so fabulous and beautiful and is here tonight,” she said. “I love you.”
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Meanwhile, Bey’s husband (and potential joint project collaborator) Jay Z was there, along with the couple’s adorable four-year-old daughter Blue Ivy, who waved to photographers as she entered. The two looked on proudly as Bey was honored on what she called an unforgettable evening.
“Thank you so much for this incredible award,” she said. “I’ll never forget this night.”
Beyoncé joins a list of past Fashion Icon Award recipients including Pharrell Williams, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Iman, Kate Moss, and Johnny Depp.
Watch ‘Yoncé’s full speech below.