The New York Women’s Foundation was delighted to participate in this year’s Catwalk FurBaby charity fashion show, a New York Fashion Week event hosted by ELYSIAN to celebrate fashion while raising funds for important causes.
The Foundation partnered with long-time supporter and Board Member Jean Shafiroff as our model and rising star design talent, Ashley Plasse, a recent graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). Ashley’s design showcases the elegance of high fashion and the rich tradition of Bengali craftsmanship.
By weaving together fashion and philanthropy, this opportunity underscores The Foundation’s commitment to celebrating and supporting women across all sectors and backgrounds. Through grantmaking and partnerships, The Foundation supports community partners to prioritize fair labor practices, inclusivity, and ethical fashion, advancing justice and equity in the fashion industry and beyond.
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“Being a model and influencer for The New York Women’s Foundation at this event is a wonderful opportunity for me as it combines my passion for advancing women’s rights, supporting animal welfare and young fashion designers. I am excited to use this platform to shine a spotlight on the vital work being done by The New York Women’s Foundation to advance equity while modeling the gown of a 2024 Fashion Institute of Technology graduate in one event.”
Jean Shafiroff
Jean Shafiroff is a long-standing supporter and Board Member of The New York Women’s Foundation. Her background in philanthropy and fashion ties together two industries while advancing social justice.
Jean is a philanthropist, humanitarian, TV host, writer, and the author of the book Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give. Jean is often referred to as “the first lady of philanthropy” by the press because of her generosity and extensive work as a volunteer fundraiser and leader in the philanthropic world. Among the many causes she champions are those involved in women’s rights, the rights of underserved populations, health care, and animal welfare.
“When I was 8 years old, my grandmother taught me how to sew, and it was then that I knew that fashion design was meant for me.”
Ashley Plasse
Ashley Plasse is a recent graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology. She received her bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, specializing in special occasion. During her years at FIT, she had the opportunity to study abroad in Milan, live the New York City life, and intern with some great fashion houses. In her last year, she was selected as one of the five finalists in the Macy’s x FIT Capsule Collection contest where her look was featured in the FIT Future of Fashion Runway Show.
Ashley’s design is inspired by the craft of handmade embroidery. Her grandfather was born in Bangladesh, which is what sparked her research into crafts made by Bengali artisans, specifically embroidery. Through her research of embroidery, she became inspired by nature, which led her to create this flower blossoming throughout the gown. You can see more of Ashley’s work on her website.
Advance Justice For Women
