Fashion Fights Poverty Annual Dress Responsibly Gala

Since 2005, Fashion Fights Poverty has brought ethical fashion to DC through educational programs and runway shows. I have been honored to help behind the scenes on several of their shows over the years and am excited to moderate their next forum on April 20^th.

On March 31, the volunteer-run organization returns with its Annual Dress Responsibly Gala at Artisphere. On the heels of the NICE Consumer Project hosted by Business for Social Responsibility, the gala reinforces the fashion industry’s environmental impact and puts a spotlight on those designers committed to a low carbon footprint. This year, the event promises a cadre of talented designers, both local and international, proving eco-fashion is equally innovative and luxurious.

How does poverty factor into the equation? Designers who adhere to fair trade principles employ local craftsman and artisans at a fair wage, which may lead to economic development, skill-building and community empowerment. Fashion Fights Poverty has recently partnered with Detroit Lives, a non-profit addressing Detroit’s apparel manufacturing.

The gala will feature a fashion show and presentations by Project Runway Season 7 winner, Seth Aaron Henderson; renewable fabric apparel designer, Earthtec; EcoArtFashion founder, Luis Valenzuela Tara St. James (Study NY); local DC metro area designers, Laura Williams and Ginger Root; NY-based sustainable fabric lingerie designer, Daisy & Elizabeth; LA-based eco-friendly designer, LAVUK; Canadian swimwear and apparel designer, Ashley Zaba; vegan shoes and bag designer Cri-de-Ceour; and animal activist and creator of the "12 in 12 for 12" campaign, Gabby Wild. (recycled paper dress shown in invite); 2011 Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation Designers Award recipient,

Tickets: $75 General and $150 VIP, http://ffp2012gala.eventbrite.com.

Donations Wanted: As you attack your closet for an annual spring cleaning, kindly consider donating your gentle used items to a shelter. Martha’s Table is in need of men’s clothing and shoes and women’s spring clothing. Location: 2114 14th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20009