There have been talks for awhile now about selling tickets to Fashion Week shows to help out the designers with the astronomical costs associated with putting on a show. In the past, moves in this direction have created some tension. However, last season we had the American Express skybox which allowed select Gold, Platinum, and Centurion American Express card members to view shows from a Skybox-like hospitality suite complete with food and drink that looked out over the runway (but was not visible by the invited press, buyers, and guests of sponsors in the actual runway venue), which had some designers upset at the commercialization of what is essentially supposed to be an industry-only trade show.
While grand plans aside from the American Express initiative have reached a standstill, select designers have taken matters into their own hands. Ports 1961 is holding an online contest where one person will win two tickets to their runway show, backstage access to meet designer Tia Cibani, car service to and from the show, dinner for two at a MPD restaurant, and a $500 gift card to spend at the Ports 1961 flagship store in NYC. All you have to do to be entered to win is fill out your information and a short bit about why you’d like to win at http://giftcard.ports1961.com/competition/signup.php.
For those not willing to take a chance on a win (and for those with deep pockets), you can bid on your tickets via Charity Buzz. The website had teamed up with the ladies of Marchesa for a package timed to the site’s annual Valentine’s Day auction to benefit The Rose Foundation and The White Ribbon Alliance. The winning bidder will receive a collection dress of her choice, and two VIP passes to the brand’s February 17th presentation at Chelsea Art Gallery. The estimated value of the package is $15,000…not too shabby.
Lastly, model turned designer Erin Wasson is selling ten tickets to her Fall 2010 Erin Wasson x RVCA show on February 11th to benefit the American Red Cross’ relief efforts in Haiti. Wasson will not be showing at the tents this season, but at ABC Carpet & Home instead. The cost of the front row tickets are $1,500, and rumor has it there will be a live performance at her runway show.
While I personally couldn’t fathom paying five figures to attend a fashion show, for those with an interest in the industry and the funds to allow them to do this, I can’t think of a better way to indulge in a passion while giving back to a charitable cause. Hopefully this is a trend we will see more of in the future.
