Tracy Reese - Fashion Fights Cancer

How meaningful can a handbag be? I learned the answer to that at an event given by Fashion Fights Cancer.  Designer Tracy Reese led a design and therapy session for cancer patients to personalize a tote bag.  The multi-week workshop was held at the designer's studio.  She and her team opened up their facilities to demonstrate dying techniques, embellishments and her library of inspiration books for the participants.  The group started with sketching on the first workshop, then got to explore all different skills for the next classes for their finished bag.

This class was one of a series organized by Ty Canty, founder of Fashion Fights Cancer.  Previous workshops were led by Byron Lars and another coming up with Jason Wu.  The non-profit will host a fundraising gala this September to provides services to survivors and those suffering from cancer.

To donate or volunteer your own stylish skills, learn more here.

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Fashion Fights Cancer with Byron Lars

An intimate event took place last week at Midtown Manhattan’s Audi Forum.  Fashion Fights Cancer president, Ty Canty and superstar designer Byron Lars presented a special group of ladies and their creations to the world.

The non-profit organization brings together the fashion community to raise awareness and funds to battle cancer. The project brought together Byron Lars and cancer patients Frances Ricks, Muriel Asnis, Barbara Moskowitz, Peggy Leigel and Carmen Diaz to create hand painted scarves under the mentorship of the designer. 


Some women were seasoned artists; some found a surprising new outlet for creative expression.  Muriel Asnis, was already a jewelry designer and donated some of her work to a fundraising auction for the organization.


 The ladies modeled their silk scarves on top of Byron Lars’ blouses.  As gorgeous as the designer’s pieces were, nothing looked as beautiful on these women as their own smiles of accomplishment.
Cupcakes and champagne were served.  Guests also went home with gift bags of Godiva chocolates and Mizani hair products. 


Future events include designers Tracy Reese and Jason Wu.  To donate or get involved, please visit Fashion Fights Cancer on the web. 

photos by Mariana Leung

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Fashion Fights Cancer

Last week at the Audi Forum, non-profit organization Fashion Fights Cancer hosted a super-chic event.  The soiree included top designers Tadashi Shoji, Byron Lars, Lotusgrace, Thuy among others who donated items for the sample sale.  Cocktails flowed, guests nibbled on Pop Chips and sweets.  Plenty of models were on hand to sell and pose in the garments.
Host Suzy Malick and other speakers spoke passionately about the cause as well as cancer survivor stories. While having a good time, they also shed light on the higher purpose of the stylish soiree. Proceeds from this event will benefit the I’m Too Young for This Cancer Foundation and The Cancer Research Institute. 

Photos by Mariana L and Ritika W

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