Justice In Fashion hosted a sell-out fashion show fundraiser on Thursday 28th October 2021, in aid of Anti-Slavery Day. The event took place at Poplar Union, E14, and provided guests with a unique chance to see the latest and some exclusive pieces from London’s hottest ethical designers, as well as hear how we, as consumers, can love fashion whilst at the same time, support the part of the industry that puts ethics and people before consumption and profit.
The event aptly began with a poem called ‘Hope’, which was written and read by the talented Amira Benning-Prince. Hope was the theme of the event to represent what the founders of Justice In Fashion believed when the organisation was first formed. Hope that our passion could make a change in the fashion industry; hope that gender rights would not regress during and post the pandemic; hope that the work in the anti-slavery movement would not become unravelled and hope that our choices can make a positive impact on the world.
The COO of Justice In Fashion, Sharon Benning-Prince, then announced the start of the runway show, whereby the fabulous designers presented their designs and discussed the ethos of their ethical and sustainable brands, whilst the audience watched the incredible models showcase the designs on the runway.
In addition to seeing emerging sustainable brands present their collections on the runway, guests also had the opportunity to meet coveted designers that included Lyn Gerald, Amira Benning-Prince, Tabby Bunyan, Daniel James Brennan, Lora Gene, Joy Osula, Tomiwa Nicole Oye, Bav Tailor, Mohamed Omar Jalal, Mohamed Elmessiah, Luciana Pulcini and Leticia Credidio.
Throughout the event there were also insightful talks from Sharon Benning-Prince about the creation of Justice In Fashion, formed 18 months ago, Jen Wascak, JD spoke about Justice In Fashion’s research projects in the UK and globally, and the Youth Board presented Justice In Fashion’s ethos and manifesto and their ideology of a better journey.
After the runway show, everyone had a chance to chat to like-minded individuals whilst browsing the pop up stands and enjoying delicious Mexican food by Grillz on Wheelz. A fabulous raffle also took place, allowing some lucky guests to win some much sought after prizes, they included a £150 House of Baukjen voucher, £100 voucher for MEATliquor, a luxury scarf worth over £100 from Wallace#Sewell, and many more. Plus all guests were pleased to leave with a goodie bag that contained a luxury candle from Jenny Betts London!
For more information about the event and the designers, view the event programme here: Event Programme
Being a sell-out event, it was so lovely to be able to organise an event that provided an opportunity for individuals to meet and socialise in person after a year of many restrictions. The event manager at Poplar Union said:
“It was wonderful to see Poplar Union full of happy, smiley people enjoying themselves and learning all about Justice in Fashion.”
Justice In Fashion were overwhelmed by the success of the show and so grateful for every single person involved. There were so many people behind the scenes who helped make Justice In Fashion’s first fashion show possible. Without everyone who helped in various ways the show really would not have been possible.
A few words from COO, Sharon Benning-Prince sharing the importance of individuals coming together to create change:
“Change can be only made when individuals collectively come together with hope and passion and make the change for the better; Justice In Fashion and its friends are the collective that endeavour for better rights for workers, for women and raising awareness of modern slavery, forced labour and inequality."
If you were unable to attend but wish to support Justice In Fashion, there is still an option to donate. If you wish to do so, click here: Donate
Also, to avoid missing out on the next event, sign up to Justice In Fashion’s newsletter to be informed about any upcoming events and fundraisers: Sign up now
Click through to view a selection of photos from the event:
Photos Credit: Alex Welensky