One of the most rewarding things about my job is being introduced and exposed to so many different charitable organizations. I have the privilege of learning about and participating in their inspiring work. My dolly and love, Michael Carl, Vanity Fair's Fashion Market Director, asked me to be a co-chair for his organization, Housing Works' annual holiday shopping event, Fashion For Action, along with designer Thom Browne and the talented actress (and one of my favorites), Patricia Clarkson. The funds from Fashion For Action will benefit women and their families in HIV prevention and healthcare causes that are so near to my heart, as one of my closest loves is affected with HIV. It was an honor to be asked to co-host this event. Here's a glimpse inside my day leading up the event......
10:30 AM
Just left the Caudalie Spa at The Plaza. Their Caudalie grand facial treatment makes my face feel amazing and look the best it can with as little sleep as I get- love the massage for my face!
11:00AM
In the office. Somehow Earl Gray tea from a beautiful tea cup makes all my quickly approaching deadlines seem manageable and all doable.
*This is my fav tea cup set as it's on constant office display!
12:15PM
Reviewing the first edits of the holiday spoofs we are creating- I LIVE for these fun breaks in my day...I mean, who doesn't want to play act "Michael Scott" with their co-workers?!
1:21PM
Salad. On. The. Run. Does anyone sit down and eat a proper lunch anymore...sigh well in the islands they do, or maybe Italy as well?
1:45PM
Fabric meeting for my February show. I could get lost in fabrics all day - textures, colors and how we transform them into wearable creations for the strong, sexy, chic working women...can't wait to show at Lincoln Center again this year!
2:30PM
RRR jewelry meeting- charms spikes and lots of great verbiage...oh how I adore my job!
4:00pm
Back down the hall to my office to start getting ready. Music and make-up. I do love a dark smoky eye and mixed with Tom Ford's nudey pinks. It is a perfect combo! His lipsticks work so well on my skin tone.
4:30PM
Conference call with my LA CAA team. Never a shortage of ideas or the power to make them happen- as long as we are willing to do the work!
5:30PM
My favorite thing in the world bathrobes- It's one of my rituals of getting ready. I am ALWAYS in a robe. Hmmm, time to design my own! I want them comfy and white- sooo Cary Grant.
5:45PM
Choosing an outfit- want to look appropriate yet unique and, as always, comfortable so I can be myself and have fun!
These shoes will be perfect for the event!
5:45PM
The lovely selection of accessories for tonight.
6:00PM
Rain! Thank God I have my Prada teal turban handy. Will keep my hair dry and is always good for a carpet moment. Thank God for Miuccia!
6:25PM
Last check-in with the office - no fires to put out - before Michael picks me up.
6:42PM
Michael picks me up with an umbrella in the rain- what a gentleman! Hugs in the car. Quick bag check for green Tic-Tacs and lots of funny VF stories on the way to the event.
7:07PM
Red carpet time. We are all so busy that sometimes this is the only time we have to catch up! But really I hope to speak as earnestly and eloquently as Housing Works deserves!
7:23PM
Tonight is all about shopping and raising money as well as spreading the word about Housing Works. I definitely do my part - holiday shopping as well as a gift for myself. Love my new Thom Browne coat.
8:45PM
I tell Michael how proud I am of him (over and over, like his mother) and of all his accomplishments for Housing Works as I slip out the door. Have to tuck the girls in- I promised them I would be home before they went to sleep!
9:17PM
Home. Energized and grateful. Cozy bed. This was a great day.
I love that as a fashion community we all come together to use our talents - whether it be by voice, by design ability or fundraising ability - to give back. Through giving back you gain balance, have a greater sense of purpose, and quite frankly, realize that other people's needs are sometimes greater than your own - and that being a voice for the greater good should be as comfortable and as common as breathing.
This year's opening night surpassed Housing Works' expectations. They doubled the funds and raised over $400,000. I was so thrilled to have been a part of this worthy cause.