GIFT goes ‘Beyond the Label’ with inclusive fashion

GIFT hosted ‘Beyond the Label’, an inclusive fashion show to raise awareness of the need for all shapes, sizes and abilities to be represented in the fashion industry, as well as an opportunity for women to support other women in this female only show. More than 150 people came to show their support for the event, held at Kinloss Synagogue.

As part of their educational programming in schools, GIFT worked together with two Hasmonean 6th Formers: Adina Rosenstein and Shira Gabai, to develop the ‘Beyond the Label’ event.

GIFT works year round with Hasmonean Girls School in a Midrasha programme, encouraging the 6th Form students to come up with

their own ideas to make a positive impact within the local community. Many of the ideas born in the GIFT sessions in schools are implemented by the students and the school; however, GIFT was directly involved in the production of ‘Beyond the Label’ to enable it to be brought to a larger, community-wide audience.

When asked about the ‘Beyond the Label’ idea, Adina Rosenstein said: “Beyond the Label stands for seeing beyond the conventional physical standards of beauty; proving that confidence is the true beauty.”

17 models of all shapes and

sizes took part, some of which came through disability charity Kisharon and others volunteering from within the

community.

The clothes were generously supplied and fitted by: House of Lancry, Alona Karen Boutique, The Wardrobe, Keshet Couture, Fame, Bitz of Glitz and Accessory World.

Not only were clothes kindly donated, but DJ Danny Maccabi, A Cut Above hairstyling, Kayla Hollander hairstyling, Chaygit hair and makeup,

Joy Ambalo hairstylist, Aviva Lewin makeup, Sarah Fields makeup, Rivka Gotlieb makeup, Odelia Monderer makeup and Chevy Harp photography all volunteered for the event, donating their time and skills to put on an excellent show.

Shira Gabai, co-creator of ‘Beyond the Label’ said: ‘We cannot believe that our idea has turned into something so powerful.’

Shira Joseph, High Schools, Student & Volunteer Manager at GIFT, said: “I’m so proud of Adina and Shira and how they have introduced such a powerful idea and message to the community through this project. It’s been such a pleasure to work with them both and to see the generosity of the designers, shops and people who have given their time and talents for this amazing fashion show. GIFT facilitates thought-provoking and insightful ideas that have a positive impact on the community and this is a great example of that.”

Debbie Rosten, model from Kisharon spoke to the guests and said “Labels are for jars

Debbie Rosten, model from Kisharon, wearing a dress from House of Lancry. Photo by Raw Focus. and clothes, not for people. Our aim in life is to look beyond the label and see the goodness from within. Labels are seen on the outside but it is important to think about what can’t be seen.”

Octogenarian Shiela Soleiman, former Miss Tel Aviv, together with her great granddaughter, Shani Joseph wearing outfits by Wardrobe. Photo by Raw Focus.

Model Susie Simons who is registered blind and runs a support group called Eye Matter, wearing Alona Karen. Photo by Raw Focus.

Miriam Igbi, Tamara Steiling with other models, long-standing GIFT volunteers wearing dresses by Fame. Photo by Raw Focus.

Adina Rosenstein introduces the evening & welcomes the concept. Photo by Raw Focus.