Fitted for Work has teamed up with long-term corporate partner, Taking Shape, to create a very special plus size couture fashion range. The range will be on display from 16th November in Myer stores in Melbourne and from 7th December Sydney, with exclusive VIP launch events, before being auctioned off to the highest bidders.
The five year relationship between our two organisations is a natural fit and has become closer over time. As you know, Fitted for Work has established a strong reputation for helping women experiencing disadvantage get into and keep meaningful work. Part of our service delivery includes interview outfitting to ensure that women present themselves in the best possible light.
Donna de Zwart, Chief Executive Officer, describes the importance of appearance:
“We help women build their confidence through a range of skill-based programs. An essential part of confidence-building is feeling good about the way you look, which is why we offer a personalised interview outfitting service. Looking your best gives you a psychological advantage. When you feel good about your appearance, you automatically relax, stand taller and focus on your strengths. That’s really appealing to potential employers.
In addition to invaluable clothing donations from the public, we are supported by very generous retailers, like Taking Shape, with whom we have a long-standing relationship. Taking Shape provide us with a monthly consignment of plus-size clothing. As a large portion of the women we see are a size 14 and above, these consignments play an essential role in helping our women achieve their work goals.”
When asked about their involvement with Fitted for Work, Alla Buinowicz, Managing Director of Taking Shape, enthused:
“At Taking Shape we love what we do and the ‘why’ we do it is to help women of all shapes and sizes look and feel beautiful each and every day. inside and out.
We develop long lasting and great relationships with our customers who then become friends of Taking Shape Family. Our aim is to make every experience with Taking Shape truly memorable and well just, happy. We live by the ethos that when you feel and look good, you can handle anything life throws your way. Fitted for Work do outstanding work, assisting women in need back into the workforce, in turn giving them a second chance at life. The values of both companies are aligned in many ways and we are delighted to be associated with such an amazing charity which changes people lives every day.”
On creating the couture range, Alla says:
“Four months ago we decided to do something out of the box to celebrate women’s curves and at the same time raise much needed money for this worthy charity. Fitted for Work is near and dear to our heart. We have designed and made 7 stunning couture outfits, all individually hand made over the last 2 months. Each piece is a unique one of a kind piece.”
Potential buyers are encouraged to window shop with a view to purchase. And don’t be surprised if you recognise one of the two featured models. Donna was persuaded to take time out of her busy schedule to be part of the photoshoot. She admits:
“For an organisation of Fitted for Work’s size, we punch above our weight and part of that is because we have a strong focus on getting things done. We do whatever is necessary to get the best outcomes for our women. Being seconded as a fashion model took me out of my comfort zone, but I couldn’t refuse because the potential benefits far outweigh my temporary embarrassment. I was surprised at how much fun the shoot was but I don’t think I’ll be giving up my day job to pursue a career on the runways of Milan.”
All proceeds from the online auction will be donated to Fitted for Work and invested directly into our services.
WHERE AND WHEN THE RANGE WILL BE ON DISPLAY:
| Taking Shape @ Myer Melbourne City Store
From: Wed 16th Nov – Sun 4 Dec |
Taking Shape @ Myer Sydney City Store
From: Wed 7th Dec – Sun 18 Dec |
TIMING OF AUCTION: Start: Tuesday 15 November Finish: Sunday 18 December
To place a bid go to takingshape.com.au/couture
