The gala opened with a tribute to the late designer, who passed away from a rare form of cancer this weekend.

Abloh, a first-class talent and changemaker, left at a time when change is top-of-mind in the traditionally change-averse fashion space. Abloh’s passing; more bad news cast a shadow over the night: The emergence of another COVID-19 variant has led to tightened measures in the U.K. for at least another three weeks. Nevertheless, the show, which raises funds for the British Fashion Council’s Foundation, did go on; at least for those guests who could provide proof of double vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.

Yet, the creativity category was still populated by established players. Abloh was recognized for his work at Off-White and Louis Vuitton Men’s alongside Dior’s Kim Jones, Gucci’s Alessandro Michele, Balenciaga’s Demna Gvasalia and Loewe’s Jonathan Anderson. ”These recognitions keep me and my colleagues motivated. Part of my design practice is to keep the doors open for the future generation,” said Abloh in a prerecorded message for the event. In the environment category, recognizing designers’ sustainability efforts, the likes of Stella McCartney, Gabriela Hearst, Priya Ahluwalia, Phoebe English and Bethany Williams were honoured. There was also a “People” category awarding creatives whose work is helping make the industry a more inclusive space. British Vogue’s editor in chief Edward Enninful, A-Cold-Wall’s Samuel Ross, Harris Reed, Telfar Clemens, and Grazia U.K.’s deputy editor Kenya Hunt were all among the winners.