The Tory Burch Foundation’s annual Founders Breakfast honored Anna Wintour for her significant impact on the fashion and media industries, alongside celebrating the achievements of rising female entrepreneurs.

A Pre-Gala Celebration of Female Leadership

Held annually before the Met Gala, the Founders Breakfast took place at The Pierre hotel in early May. This year’s event drew a distinguished crowd of industry leaders and innovators.

Honoring an Iconic Founder

Anna Wintour was recognized as the “Iconic Founder” for her transformative contributions to both the fashion and magazine worlds. The event highlighted themes of resilience, leadership, and the importance of mentorship.

Notable Attendees

The breakfast saw a strong turnout, including Martha Stewart, Chloe Malle, Amanda Seyfried, Huma Abedin, Aerin Lauder, and Steven Kolb. They gathered to celebrate the 2026 Founders Breakfast class.

Entrepreneurial Stories

Spotlight on Emerging Businesses

The event featured Viola Sutanto, founder of Maika; Andrea Seymour, co-founder and CEO of Springdale Custom Builders; and Pilar Guzman, founder of Half Moon Empanadas. Each entrepreneur shared their personal journeys, challenges, and successes.

These women discussed the balance of entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and the rewards and challenges of motherhood.

The Founder’s Award

Tory Burch presented the Founder’s Award to Jennifer Pitt, the granddaughter of Olive Ann Beech, co-founder of Beech Aircraft Corporation. Burch drew parallels between Beech’s vision and Wintour’s own leadership.

A Conversation with Anna Wintour

A central part of the breakfast was a discussion between Tory Burch and Anna Wintour. They explored Wintour’s career and the principles that have guided her success.

Insights on Talent and Mentorship

Wintour shared advice from her father, emphasizing the importance of both competence and personal connection when hiring and mentoring. She described chairing the Met Gala as a “second full-time job” spanning three decades.

Wintour stressed the need for designers to possess business acumen, a clear vision, and a deep understanding of the industry beyond its glamorous surface.

Looking Ahead

Wintour expressed her enthusiasm for fostering the growth of others and her plans to take on a broader global role within the fashion industry. Attendees left feeling inspired and motivated.