In anticipation of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Disney Consumer Products and Bloomingdale’s are joining forces with an illustrious group of designers in a new fashion-meets-fundraising initiative, “Force 4 Fashion.” Taking inspiration from the film’s costume designer, Michael Kaplan, fashion favorites Cynthia Rowley, Diane von Furstenberg, Giles Deacon, Halston, Opening Ceremony, Ovadia & Sons, Parker, Rag & Bone, Timo Weiland and Todd Snyder are each creating an outfit to be auctioned for charity that pays homage to characters from the new movie.
“This collaboration celebrates the distinctive synergy between film and fashion in the run up to an exceptional moment in the history of pop culture. We’re excited to see how this incredible lineup of designers interpret Star Wars characters in unique ways, as well as to raise money for a great cause.” Said Leslie Ferraro, Co-Chair, Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media and President, Disney Consumer Products.
The designers’ looks will be revealed at a “Force 4 Fashion” launch event, presented by Kay Jewelers, in New York City on December 2nd before going on display in Bloomingdale’s NYC flagship windows the following day. Outfits will then be auctioned off December 2-18 by Bloomingdale’s on CharityBuzz.com, with the proceeds benefiting their holiday charity partner, Child Mind Institute, on behalf of Star Wars: Force For Change– a charitable initiative that empowers people to make a positive impact on the world around them.
Additionally, Michael Kaplan has designed three, limited edition “little brown bag” reusable totes, only available for purchase at Bloomingdale’s during the holiday season starting just before Thanksgiving. TheStar Wars-themed totes will be merchandised in pop-up shops featuring various Star Wars inspired merchandise.
“Bloomingdale’s is thrilled to join forces with such a historic yet continually ground breaking film,” said Anne Keating, Bloomingdale’s Senior Vice President of Public Relations, Special Events and Philanthropy. “We are excited to fuse fashion with pop culture to raise awareness and funds for our long standing partner, Child Mind Institute.”
In addition to these bespoke fashion collaborations Star Wars fans can find ready-to-wear apparel and accessories at a broad range of retailers.
The initiative has a global branch as well. Star Wars’ association with British fashion and design will also be celebrated by London-based designers Agi & Sam, Bobby Abley, Christopher Raeburn, J.W. Anderson, Nasir Mazhar, Peter Pilotto, Phoebe English, Preen and Thomas Tait. These 10 designers have also created catwalk looks inspired by Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Their designs will be showcased at an extraordinary “Star Wars: Fashion Finds The Force” presentation on November 26th in London, following which they will be available to fans worldwide by online auction at www.starwarsfashion.london with all proceeds donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity, on behalf of Star Wars: Force for Change initiative.
For more information about “Force 4 Fashion” please visit StarWars.com and follow the social conversation using the hashtag #Force4Fashion.