Strong fashion design often speaks for itself, but even stronger design speaks with purpose. Meld the two together and you have The AIDS Foundation of Chicago ( AFC ) Junior Board's —Make a Statement: Design for a Cure— event that highlights budding Chicago fashion designers and HIV awareness in it's third annual runway show.
The May 7 event stemmed from Lucas Cowan, an AFC junior board member, who was interested in creating a fashion show that introduced talented fresh designers while promoting the necessity of status awareness. In June 2007, Cowan asked Ericka Chesnal, a fellow board member, to be co-chair. —The Junior Board wanted their own distinguished event that spoke to a younger demographic,— Chesnal said. What started out as a —Project Runway feel— ( originally, designers were given an allotted amount of red fabric to use for their designs ) has developed in to a fashion-forward charity affair.
In it's third year, attendees can expect a stylish evening hosted by Chicago personality Heidi Hess. The night will include music spun by DJ Casper, cocktails, raffles and a talk from Jack Mackenroth, known for his appearance on Project Runway and currently a spokesperson for Living Positive By Design—a positive outlook organization on living with HIV and presenting sponsor of Design For A Cure along with Merek & Co. —It's an event where people either come dressed chic or straight from work. Just come as you are,— Chesnal said.
Attendees should also expect progressive fashions from up and coming Chicago based designers. Designers donate their time and supplies to create unique pieces ranging from 5plt's modern and trim for the fashion conscious man to Kwabena's sophisticated African print couture. Other designers include: Kate Boggiano, Serpico, and Lara Miller. A variety of established Chicago retailers will also be featured, such as: SkinStinct, Universal Gear, and Akira.
The ultimate goal is to continually educate a younger demographic about health and responsibility. —The event's primary focus is to continually remind people what it really means to know your [ HIV ] status while having a good time raising money to help a cause,— Chesnal said.
While the concept of meshing health and beauty isn't a new, it's a trend that will always be in fashion.
—Make a Statement: Design for a Cure— will take place Thursday, May 7, at River East Art Center, 435 E. Illinois; the VIP reception is 6-7 p.m. and the general reception is 7-10 p.m. Tickets are $65-$125; visit www.aidschicago.org/events/make_a_statement.php.