America’s biggest fashion week was held recently in New
York City, from February 11th to the 18th. The Tent, Promenade,
and Salon in the Bryant Park Tents at Sixth Avenue at 41st Street
among other locations were descended upon for a fast and furious
week of fashion, fame, and fun, showcasing the latest
season’s new designs by some of the hottest designers
around the world.
One of the greatest fashion designers of our time, the phenomenal
Alexander McQueen sadly ended his life on the very day of New
York’s fashion week debut, which made a somber mood for
some of those here in the industry that knew him, yet the show
had to go on, and on it did.
While stars galore were spotted here, including the Olson Twins,
NYC local Michael Douglas, and Abigail Breslin of “Little
Miss Sunshine” fame, among many more, the designers here
were the biggest stars this week, including one of our favorites
two years in a row, Custo Barcelona. Designer Herve Leger by Max
Azria featured some of the best models. And model Irina Kulkikova
(pictured above), discovered in a Moscow restaurant by IMG agency
Senior Vice President. Ivan Bart, and actress and model Liv Tyler
also appeared, proving why she is, time and time again by so
many, named the fashion runway’s best model.
Fashion legend Naomi Campbell made a presentation to bring
attention and further assistance to those who have undergone
tragedy in Haiti with the “Fashion for Relief®”
benefit here this week. Naomi Campbell stated to us, "I am deeply
saddened by the recent tragedy in Haiti. So many have been killed
and severely affected by the earthquake - women and children in
particular are most vulnerable in disasters. Fashion is
universal, personal and touches everyone. Our aim is to use this
season's catwalk shows in New York to reach people and help raise
crucial funds to help save the lives of women and
children."
IMG, the largest modeling agency in the world, and creator of
this year’s Mercedes Benz NYC Fashion Week, tells us, "IMG
is committed to using its platform of events and talent to
support the relief efforts in Haiti. What Naomi is doing within
the fashion industry for this cause” IMG Models Worldwide
SVP and Managing Director Ivan Bart states, “is bringing
much needed aid, but also attention and visibility to some of the
most vulnerable victims. It is truly important, We are proud to
represent Naomi and applaud the time and energy she has devoted
to this, as well as the relief efforts in New Orleans, Mumbai and
elsewhere."
Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NY was a big success this year,
thanks to all the designers, models, and sponsors. We look
forward to another exciting year in fashion as we move further in
to 2010.
www.unicef.org