Los Angeles Fashion Week Fall 2001: Fashion Business Incubator
The Fashion Business Incubator (FBI) presented the first installment of what the non-profit organization is planning to be an annual fundraiser on March 31 at the Los Angeles Athletic Club. The event was sponsored by the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, the New Mart and Bank of America, among others, and raised funds for the organization’s work providing business training, networking events, resource information and promotional opportunities to start-up designers and manufacturers. The evening included a fashion show that featured designs by several of its members and an auction featuring garments donated by designers Richard Tyler, Eduardo Lucero, Tadashi, Trina Turk, David Hayes and David Cardona. Several items, including a membership to the L.A. Athletic Club, box seats to a Lakers’ game, a Macy’s gift basket, and a gift certificate for Eclipse Jewelry Designs were raffled off to members of the audience. The FBI, which opened in the New Mart two years ago, is a fashion-oriented organization that seeks to build emerging manufacturing and contracting businesses through the development of their main officers. Currently, the FBI has more than 200 members—most of which are growing apparel-manufacturing companies. During market week, FBI members were able to show and sell their designs at both the California Mart and New Mart. The New Mart also donates office and classroom space to the FBI. —Darryl James
