Fash frat for Japan

Since the earthquake and tsunami devastated Japan, there has been a global outpouring of relief and support for the country. From international governments to relief agencies, everyone’s pitching in and the fashion community too is doing its bit.

Since the earthquake and tsunami devastated Japan, there has been a global outpouring of relief and support for the country. From international governments to relief agencies, everyone’s pitching in and the fashion community too is doing its bit.

From using social media to asking fans and customers to donate, designers and labels the world over are helping raise money, or just simple awareness. New York based designer Prabal Gurung is using his twitter account to urge his followers to donate money, while high-fashion store Bergdorf Goodman is using its Facebook page to guide followers to various options for donating for relief efforts.

Closer home, desi designers, especially those who retail in Japan, are trying to rally up support too. “We are in constant touch with our business partners and friends in Japan, and helping them out. If the Indian fashion fraternity does come together to do a collective effort we’ll surely pitch in,” says a spokesperson for designer Manish Arora.

“I’m more than willing to help raise awareness or money, but we need someone to tell us how or to just help organise it,” says designer Varun Bahl, who’s label is a staple in Tokyo’s high-end fashion stores. “Business aside, this is a time where humanity needs to be the centre of focus,” says designer Varun Sardana. A source from the Fashion Design Council of India reveals, “Talks are on with designers regarding relief efforts. Once finalised there should be an announcement.”