Join NYC’s fashionable crowd for “Fashion for Action,” a four day charitable fashion event, silent auction, and sample sale that raises funds for Housing Works’ services for homeless and low-income New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS. Fashion for Action is co-sponsored by designer Derek Lam and sponsored by Essence Magazine.

Derek Lam and one of my favorite Essence covers (Beyonce)

Over 150 top designers have donated $1 million worth of merchandise that will be sold at 50 to 70 percent off retail prices. Participating designers and brands include Acne, Balenciaga, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Christian Dior, Dolce and Gabbana, DVF, Fendi, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Paul Smith, Ralph Lauren, Theory, Yves Saint Laurent and many more.

Gilt Groupe, the official on-line sponsor of Fashion for Action 2009, has donated hundreds of fashion items for the sample sale and high-end designer merchandise for two special window installations at the Chelsea Thrift Shop (143 W. 17th St). The first window will be up until November 19, 2009. The second shop window will be installed on November 13 and run through November 26, 2009. All window items will be up for auction at www.shophousingworks.com.

Attendees of the opening night benefit will have the opportunity to take part in a silent auction of some amazing items. We’re talking a head-to-toe makeover, a designer outfit provided by Gilt Groupe, tickets to the Oscar de la Renta, BCBG MAXAZRIA, Tracy Reese, and Rebecca Taylor shows during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Spring 2010 in New York City, and tickets to the Essence Music Festival 2010 and a three-night-stay in a hotel in New Orleans?

Interested? The details are below…Enjoy!

What:   Fashion for Action, Opening Night Benefit
When:  Thursday, November 19, 2009, 7pm – 10pm
6pm – 7pm VIP preview shopping event
Where  Event: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 West 17th Street
Silent Auction, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails from The Works Catering
Private Shopping: Chelsea Thrift Shop, 143 West 17th Street
Details:  Tickets starting at $100.Tickets available at www.fashionforaction.com

What:    Fashion for Action, Public Sample Sale
When:   Friday, November 20, 2009 – Sunday, November 22, 2009
Where:  Chelsea Thrift Shop, 143 West 17th Street
Details:  Free. Complete details at www.fashionforaction.com

-kb