Fashion Designers support cancer research

A student-planned charity fashion show aims to raise funds for cancer research by featuring the latest pieces from local designers and clothing stores.

The “Crossing the Line Charity Fashion Show” is scheduled for Friday at the Double Tree Hotel in Richmond. Proceeds will fund the VCU Massey Cancer Center.

The charity fashion show is the project of Brittany Burke, a fashion marketing major.

“I thought it would be a great way to support a cause and I had heard about the Massey Cancer Center,” Burke said. “I found out they did all sorts of events.”

When Burke originally had the idea for the charity event she decided to get in contact with a representative from the Massey Center this past August. Stephanie Jenks, assistant director of special events for the Massey Center has worked closely with Burke to plan the event.

Jenks has worked with the Massey Center to coordinate past charity events.

“Massey is extremely grateful for the enthusiasm Brittany has shown for the cause and we are proud to partner with her on the ‘Crossing the Line Charity Fashion Show,'” Jenks said.

The charity event will begin at 7 p.m. with a silent auction consisting of donations from businesses. The fashion show will take place shortly after, featuring the original designs from VCU students and local designers.

Burke and Jenks contacted businesses to submit donations for the silent auction including Gold’s Gym, Salon Evol, Three Bears Gift Shop at MCV Hospital, Shabby Apple and the Double Tree Hotel. The donations up for auction include gift baskets, an art piece, a dress from Shabby Apple, a free one year gym membership and a weekend stay at the Double Tree.

The featured designers include Rumors Boutique, Need Supply Co., MCV, Shabby Apple and Euro Trash. The individual designers are VCU students and are not associated with any local businesses. Maxime Connor, Ashley Darby, Kiera Ogden and April Townes will all submit designs, which will be featured in Friday’s show. The designs will include fashions for both men and women.

The main event of “Crossing the Line” is showcasing the designs, which allows for a dual promotion of the fashion designers and businesses. The objective is to raise funds for the Massey Center.

The Massey Center has become a prominent cause in the Richmond community, receiving approximately half of its funds from personal donations. Community members support the center through volunteering in addition to financial donations.

The cost of tickets is $10 for VCU students with I.D. and $20 for the general public. More information about ticket sales and the event can be found by contacting Brittany Burke at burkebl@vcu.edu or by contacting Stephanie Jenks at 827-0642 or sjenks@vcu.edu.