Last night’s "Fashion Forward" event, hosted by Gay Men’s Health Crisis, was a chance for fashionistas and GMHC supporters to enjoy a relaxing night of fun and fashion while helping a wonderful cause. GMHC, a nonprofit, volunteer-supported and community-based organization, is committed to national leadership in the fight against AIDS.
The event opened with cocktails and a silent auction that included everything from a beautiful Elie Tahari “Kole” black leather jacket to a private shopping Ultimate Fashionista package from Andrew Buckler at his Meatpacking District showroom. Attendees packed Skylight Studios, where everyone enjoyed mingling and outbidding one another for the prizes.
After the auction, it was time to take our seats for the show. I was lucky enough to sit behind one of my favorite men’s designers, the amazingly talented Andrew Buckler, who was an honorary committee member for the event. Tim Gunn, master of ceremonies, opened the show by thanking those who helped make the night possible. He admitted to having a “star-struck” moment when he met the incredibly beautiful Beverly Johnson (who wore a dress by “Project Runway Season 5” finalist Korto Momolu, and could not have been any sweeter in person). Tim also revealed that the taping of “Project Runway Season 6” had just wrapped in Los Angeles, and though he was skeptical at first, he was very pleased with the outcome.
Tim then introduced “Project Runway Season 4” contestant and Living Positive by Design’s Jack Mackenroth, who gave a touching speech about how GMHC has helped him since the early 90s, when he diagnosed with HIV. I had the pleasure of chatting with Jack before the show and saw his enthusiasm for getting the word out about LPBD. He even designed an LPBD scarf, which was a modern take on the classic red ribbon that symbolizes the fight against HIV and AIDS.
After brief speeches by GMHC CEO Marjorie J. Hill and presenting sponsor Bank of America’s New York Vice President Alan Rapport, the runway show began. Featured designers included the Spring/Summer ‘09 collections of Ports 1961 by Tia Cibani, Michael Bastian, Charles Nolan, Tim Hamilton, John Varvatos and Betsey Johnson. The show was relaxed and fun, with the models having just as much fun as the audience.
Other celebrity guests included “Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style” fashion accomplice Gretta Monahan (looking stunning in her black Dolce and Gabbana dress with vintage handbag, a gift from Tim Gunn), Michael Bastian, Derek Lam, Miss USA Crystle Stewart (wearing Baby Phat), Suede and Malan Breton.
Special thanks to the designers of Hanne Apparel, Elizabeth Leifer, Lola Ramona and Kathleen McGivney for being a wonderful cheering section during the show!
-- John David Robbins for StyleWhipped.com
Thanks for the insight, David! Another great article about a truly worthwhile event!
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