The event theme drew inspiration from Chinese culture and featured two brands from Shanghai and Hong Kong that are committed to sustainable fashion. New York – Three sustainable designers presented their work to diplomats and fashion leaders at this year’s 12th Annual First Ladies Luncheon, in a continued appeal toward more ethical fashion consumption. Inspired by Chinese culture, the event featured two brands from Shanghai and Hong Kong, complemented by a vegan menu from renowned Chef Guo Wenjun, who owns the most expensive Chinese restaurant in New York City.
One of the highlighted designers was Juliet Gao, founder of Sandriver Cashmere . Her sustainable brand has revived an ancient Mongolian hand-felt technique and collaborates with women and local herders in remote areas of Tibet. The event also highlighted the work of Wang Feng Couture, a designer known for bridal and haute couture creations.
The third designer featured was Mirela Nurce, whose designs on the runway gave the audience a glimpse of Global Runway, an upcoming project that will bring designers from 100 nations to partake in one runway show. Set to launch in 2026 at the United Nations, this initiative is a continuation of the Fashion 4 Development ’s mission to bring together diplomacy and solutions through fashion. Evie Evangelou, the founder of Fashion 4 Development, described Global Runway as “a (symbol) of tolerance [and] reconciliation”.
Co-hosting the luncheon alongside Evangelou was Chinese-Am.