Real Women on the Runway: A Bottomless Closet Event

It was a Tuesday night in the city that never sleeps and the music was pumping and the lights were illuminating as guests mingled awaiting the fashion show to begin at the upscale lounge, The Park. Bottomless Closet, an organization focused on assisting NYC disadvantaged women become self sufficient threw one hell of a party for some of their clients. Unlike most fashion shows, this one featured real women who have seen hard times.

Christina Atkins, who was featured in last year’s fashion show, had a chance to tell us how much Bottomless Closet has affected her life. She said, “They not only gave me beautiful suits and accessories for interviews, they also gave me a week’s worth of clothing when I got hired for my first job.” She went on to describe the many different career and financial workshops that Bottomless Closet offers and how they were crucial to her succeeding in the work place. It’s clear to say Bottomless Closet changed Christina’s life, and definitely for the better.

We also got a chance to speak with Kendall Farrell who has been the Executive Director of Bottomless Closet for five years. She said that her position is the perfect combination for her since it involves both the fashion world and non-profit world. When we asked Farrell what her favorite part about her job is, she said, “The ladies we serve. Clothing is a small piece of what we offer, but it leads to confidence. To be able to see these women come and strut their stuff is amazing!” We agree!

Emcee of the evening, Lauren Scala, from WNBC, told us about some of the issues she had finding a job in the past. She said, “I have gone through a lot. I lost three jobs in my 20′s and there was definitely a point where I almost had to start over. You need to believe though and you will make it through.” She continued, “The most important piece of advice I can give to young women is ‘Choose your attitude!’ It’s all about how you handle everything.” Renegade Chicks everywhere, take note! This is some great advice!

After watching all the models, including: Akkitta, Stephanie, Frankie, Patricia, Nana, Angela, Bonita, Celeste, Jennifer, Myrna, Majorie and Lisa walk the red carpet we were in awe of Bottomless Closet and all of their sponsors, including: Macy’s, Eileen Fisher, HBO and The Park, among many others.

It was a night to remember! Find out more about Bottomless Closet here.