By Stephanie Shave
Naomi Campbell dazzles once again with her Fashion for Relief pop up store. With the opportunity to use her platform and the fashion industry as a way to make a positive change, Naomi founded Fashion for Relief in 2005.
“Fashion For Relief is dedicated to improving the lives of those living in adversity, by uniting the fashion industry as a force for good”, says Naomi.
When creating the organization, Naomi was inspired by one of the most extraordinary leaders of our time Nelson Mandela, and as a South African, this truly resonated with me. This incredible organization has raised funds for numerous environmental and humanitarian issues throughout the years. A charity fashion show was the first event held in Fashion For Relief’s name, and this was to raise funds for victims of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.
In 2014 the Fashion For Relief pop-up store saw great success, and after selling out in just seven days, they were able to raise £65 000.
This year they have come back even bigger and better. The pop-up, curated by Naomi Campbell herself, was the fourth of its kind and did not fail to impress. The stylish store located at Westfield London Atrium ran for 12 days from the 27th of November until the 8th of December.
The pop up’s aim was to raise funds for education and employability programs for young people. The aforementioned were in support of the Mayor’s Fund for London. This is undoubtedly an organization worthy of support. The organization is an independent charity that advocates for the social mobility of young Londoners from low-income backgrounds. As stated on their website;
A perfect way for shoppers to bring in the Christmas season, customers were able to choose from a selection of bespoke items donated by various brands together with the opportunity to shop from Naomi’s very own collection.
As I entered the store, I felt as if I had walked into the model’s wardrobe. Gold mannequins tower over you adorned with the most intricately beaded dresses. The contemporary yet fun design of the pop-up created a pleasing ambiance as you meandered through the store. Clothing rails were stocked with only the most desirable pieces from designers such as Gucci, Stella McCartney, Fendi, Dior, Saint Laurent, Rosbalet, and more.
The idea was to have unique items at reasonable and accessible prices. Think a Stella McCartney blouse for only £40. Creator of KeiSei Magazine Noemi couldn’t resist snapping up a stunning Fendi dress, which she wore to the Fashion Awards 2019.
The pop-up store was not only comprised of well-known names, but showcased emerging young designers too. This included the likes of Matty Bovan, who was a nominated for British Emerging Talent Womenswear at the Fashion Awards 2019, as well as, Roberta Einer and Nabil Nayal.
On December 2nd, the British Fashion Council hosted the 2019 Fashion Awards at Royal Albert Hall. Fittingly, it was here that Naomi was honoured with the Fashion Icon Award. She received this prestigious accolade for her role in the fashion industry and her exceptional philanthropic work. Shining in an Alexander McQueen gown, the model gave a touching speech thanking her mother and making mention that she was the first woman of colour to receive the award. To read more about the star-studded evening here.
After three decades in the fashion industry, it is clear that Naomi Campbell is a force to be reckoned with. I eagerly await to see what this inspiring woman will do next.
To learn more about Fashion For Relief and how you can donate, visit their website by clicking here.
Stephanie Shave
A nomadic writer with her roots in Africa but her heart and imagination wherever she can explore and find new cafe.
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