Fashion Trust U.S. announces inaugural board members

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Feb 25, 2022

The Fashion Trust U.S. announced on Thursday the inaugural members of its board, including leading voices in the U.S. fashion industry. 

The non-profit initiative dedicated to discovering, funding, and nurturing young design talent, said that former InStyle editor-in-chief Laura Brown, Anne Crawford, media personality Tan France, Harper’s Bazaar editor-in-chief Samira Nasr and celebrity stylist Karla Welch will join co-founder Tania Fares on the board. Likewise, philanthropist Francesca Dutton will serve as director.

“I am excited to be launching Fashion Trust in the U.S. alongside an incredible group of people who advocate for creative communities across the country,” said Fares. “The Fashion Trust has come a long way since its inception in the U.K. and I can’t wait to support the diversity, talent and culture of American design.”

U.S.-based designers in business for at least three years are invited to apply to the Fashion Trust, which first launched In 2011, in the U.K. Following a review by a board of industry leaders, the winners and grants will be announced at the prestigious annual Fashion Trust U.S. Awards in early 2023. Winners will be awarded financial grants and mentorships covering budget, strategy, digital, merchandising, and general business support.
 
Since inception, the Fashion Trust has acquired 145 donors, raised over £3.5 million and financially supported 39 designers. It also expanded to the MENA region in 2018. 

“I could not be prouder to join the board of Fashion Trust U.S.,” said France. “The Trust has done incredible work supporting designers in the U.K. and the Middle East, championing those who would not ordinarily be given this great opportunity.”
 
“I am grateful that Tania Fares is bringing the Fashion Trust across the pond, and am proud to be part of this community,” added Nasr. “This will be an incredible opportunity for young American designers to find support for their business and shine both at home and beyond our borders.”