Compassion is in Fashion

NEW YORK, June 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Nine West, the go-to destination for fashionistas, has teamed up with Kelly Cutrone, newly appointed brand Ambassador of Culture and Noise, CEO and Founder of public relations firm People's Revolution, New York Times Best Selling author, judge on America's Next Top Model and widely recognized TV personality, and Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa to support young women through the power of transformation.

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(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120615/MM25057)

Taking into consideration the current economic environment and using the formidable social media platform of Facebook, Nine West created the You've Been Prom'd program as a way to give back to the community and offer one lucky high school a prom experience of a lifetime.  Contestants entered to win a full prom makeover from Kelly Cutrone with some surprises along the way.

Contestant Rachel DiCesare of Newburgh Free Academy, located in the inner city of Orange County, New York, entered the contest with nine reasons why she and her classmates deserved to be made over for their senior prom.  Rachel found her voice and the incentive to always pursue her dreams after overcoming a childhood obstacle; one of those dreams was going to the prom.  Her heartfelt response secured her as the winner.  Rachel's second reason for deserving the makeover was: "I've always wanted to look like a princess on my prom night and perhaps have the chance to shine."  This deserving young girl's wishes were about to come true.

Following the Facebook contest, Cutrone appeared unannounced at Rachel's school, located just off Route 9, on June 6^th to surprise Rachel and her 10 classmates with the big news.  Nine West provided custom made dresses created by their in-house atelier team for each individual winner. The girls' gowns were designed with lush fabrics ranging from silks to satin, lace and chiffon. Additionally, Nine West donated footwear, handbags and jewelry specifically selected to accompany each of the girls' individual looks.  Cutrone also reached out to Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa who created and donated personalized makeup palettes for each winner and hair and makeup specialists were on site to develop customized looks for each girl.

Richard Dickson, President and CEO Branded Businesses at The Jones Group, said, "Nine West is proud to give back through the power of fashion as a way to transform. In partnership with Kelly Cutrone and Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa, we hope the impact of this effort will inspire other young women to find their voices."

Kelly Cutrone, Nine West's Ambassador of Culture and Noise, said, "There are many memorable milestone pictures that can come in a lifetime, and prom is definitely one of them.  These photos are ones we look back on, and I wanted to help empower the young women of Newburgh Free Academy through the magic of fashion and beauty.  I loved being a part of such a great initiative with my friends at Nine West and Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa.  Together, we made a difference."

Rachel and her classmates were given a lesson on etiquette and style, led by Cutrone.  Cutrone started by teaching the girls that clothes are an important tool to use to their advantage.  The girls learned how to accessorize, walk in heels and sit in a dress, as well as how to properly accept a gift bag.  The guidance provided the girls with tips that will stay with them for years to come.

In addition to Nine West providing custom made dresses and accessories to accompany them to prom, the girls also walked away with a gift bag which included the book Prom by internationally recognized documentary photographer Mary Ellen Mark, the latest beauty products from Elizabeth Arden, a journal to document their special journey and a mini survival kit with all the day-of essentials to make sure they're prepared for the big day!

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About The Jones Group Inc.
The Jones Group Inc. (www.jonesgroupinc.com) is a leading global designer, marketer and wholesaler of over 35 brands with product expertise in apparel, footwear, jeanswear, jewelry and handbags.  The Jones Group has a reputation for innovation, excellence in product quality and value, operational execution and talent.  The Company also markets directly to consumers through branded specialty retail and outlet stores and through its e-commerce sites.

The Company's internationally recognized brands and licensing agreements (L) include: Nine West, Jones New York, Anne Klein, Kurt Geiger, Rachel Roy (L), Robert Rodriguez, Robbi & Nikki, Stuart Weitzman, B Brian Atwood (L), Boutique 9, Easy Spirit, Carvela, Gloria Vanderbilt, l.e.i., Bandolino, Enzo Angiolini, Nine & Co., GLO, Joan & David, Miss KG, Jones Wear, Kasper, Energie, Evan-Picone, Le Suit, Mootsies Tootsies, Grane, Erika, Napier, Jessica Simpson (L), Sam & Libby, Givenchy (L), Judith Jack, Albert Nipon, Pappagallo, Rafe (L) and C&T Costello Tagliapietra (L).

SOURCE Nine West