Ukrainian designers from Cherkasy showcase their fashions in Iowa (04/07/02)

Ukrainian designers from Cherkasy showcase their fashions in Iowa

by Miriam Bates

WASHINGTON - Four fashion designers from Cherkasy, Ukraine, showcased their exclusive designer fashions with a free fashion show for the public in Des Moines, Iowa, at Merle Hay Mall on January 26.

The Ukrainian fashion show, in which volunteers from the Des Moines community modeled beautiful and unique casual, business and formal ensembles, involved a larger issue than women's finery. To Mayor Preston Daniels who gave the opening welcome at the exhibition, "[It] is more than just fashion. It's an opportunity to promote economic development and broaden the diversity and cultural understanding in the city."

The fashion show is one example of Des Moines' growing interest in Ukraine since its involvement in the USAID-Foundation's USAID-funded Community Partnerships Project (CPP). Since 1997 CPP has partnered 14 American and Ukrainian cities, including Cherkasy and Des Moines, to address municipal issues in Ukraine such as housing, social services and economic development.

The Des Moines and Cherkasy communities have both benefited from the Ukrainian fashion exhibition. Public awareness and understanding of cultural diversity has increased, and new avenues for business and economic development benefiting both cities have been established.

The fashion exhibition was also highlighted by the opening of Goods and Services of Cherkasy, a Ukrainian store featuring the designer fashions, custom-ordered, made-to-measure clothing, personal consultations with the designers, and Ukrainian arts and crafts. Visitors to the store had the opportunity to receive personal consultations with the designers and to meet the craftsmen to place special orders of unique Ukrainian ironwork. Visitors were also able to view videotapes of the Cherkasy region and the art and culture of Ukraine.

Sponsors for this event included the City of Des Moines, International Training, Education and Business Services, Iowa Council for International Understanding, Des Moines Water Works, and Merle Hay Mall. Merle Hay Mall, Capitol City Graphics, Signs Now, the Ruan Companies, Commercial Federal Bank and U.S. Cellular donated in-kind services or financial support.

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