Fashion Week was off to an early start when, on Tuesday night Vogue put on the Fashion's Night Out Runway show. With over 150 models, it was probably the biggest show in New York history. I was lucky enough to be one of the 14 girls opening the show. I found myself on a double decker bus surrounded by single name icons like Naomi, Gisele, and Adriana to name a few... The show was a roaring success and set the tone for a Fashion Week I think all will remember. Not only is this the first season we are spending up in Lincoln Center, but there seems to be an overwhelmingly positive attitude in the air this week.
One thing I'm very excited about is fashion's participation in the Nine West Runway Relief--the whole idea has really struck a chord with me. Years ago an aunt I'm especially close to was diagnosed with breast cancer. The cancer was cured before it claimed her life, but that doesn't mean it won't rear its ugly head again in my family or in other families I'm close to. Cancer is a monster that affects nearly everyone in some shape or form. We cannot let its widespread presence dull our alarm and awareness. We have to work together to encourage those around us to give back and show their support.
Nine West's Runway Relief aims to bring awareness back to the issue of breast cancer in a novel and new way. We need that. We need the constant reminders, and this is one. All the models asked to be a part of this and seem very eager to do their part and devote their energy to the cause. The idea is simple, during Fashion Week we models will wear boots specially fitted with a pedometer to register our every step. For every mile we walk, Nine West is pledging to donate money to Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. But more than that, this campaign is reminding young women everywhere that cancer is still out there. I personally have worn the boots from morning to night and I'm telling everyone about this. It is our duty as an industry, as women and as human beings to continue to support efforts to stop this killer.
If you see me walking by this Fashion Week, give me a shout, but please don't try to stop me!
Related links:
Coco's Blog:
http://ohsococo.blogspot.com/
Behind the Scenes: Nine West's Runway Relief
Get to Know Coco Rocha