US designers get behind Planned Parenthood

NEW YEAR Fashion Week kicks off in just a few days, and the US fashion industry is getting political.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America ( CFDA) has launched an initiative publicly supporting the women’s health organisation Planned Parenthood.

“Fashion Stands With Planned Parenthood” is a collaborative effort from the two bodies to raise awareness and support for the non- profit health organisation, which provides reproductive health services across the US and is facing potential funding cuts under the Trump presidency.

The campaign will focus on special pink pins designed by The Creative Group, Condé Nast, which are expected to feature heavily throughout New York Fashion Week both on and off the catwalk. Participating designers have been asked to feature them in their presentations, while front- row fashion show guests and staff will also sport the badges. A card elaborating on the services offered by Planned Parenthood will be provided with each pin.

High- profile designers participating in the campaign include Diane von Furstenberg, Carolina Herrera, Kate Spade New York, Proenza Schouler, Narciso Rodriguez, Tory Burch, Zac Posen and many more, the CFDA said in a blog post announcing the initiative.

CFDA President and CEO Steven Kolb said the campaign was part of the fashion council’s social duty, explaining: “Civic responsibility is an important CFDA pillar. Defunding Planned Parenthood will impact millions of Americans. We will raise awareness and support this fashion week and show that Fashion Stands with Planned Parenthood.”