Clothes To The Rescue (Press, 10 June 1987)

On 10 June 1987, a celebrity fashion show was held in London to raise funds for A.I.D.S. treatment, featuring contributions from star designers and models. Organised under the new charity Aids Crisis Trust (A.C.T.), the event showcased fifteen exotic evening dresses designed by prominent British fashion designers. The auction aimed to benefit the London Lighthouse hospice, a residential and daycare centre for individuals with A.I.D.S., set to officially open in February 1988. While Social Services Minister Norman Fowler had already contributed over $1,500,000 to the Lighthouse, additional funding was urgently needed. The event attracted a high-profile audience, including the Duchess of York. Among the auction items were not only the stunning dresses but also unique contributions such as a pair of ballet shoes worn by Rudolf Nureyev, a collection of twenty-two signed novels by Iris Murdoch, a lithograph by artist David Hockney, and a diamond ring presented by A.C.T. patron Elizabeth Taylor, engraved with the letter "E." Prominent models and personalities graced the runway, including Bianca Jagger, actresses Charlotte Lewis, Patricia Hodge, and Patsy Kensit, as well as singers Shirley Bassey and Sarah Brightman. The lavish collection of dresses included a gold-embroidered emerald frock by Rifat Ozbek, a Chinese-yellow taffeta dress by Bellville Sassoon, an original Fortuny greeny-gold Delphos, and a striking shocking-pink stole by Victor Edelstein. Marie Helvin, who organised the fashion show, remarked on the quality and array of dresses, noting the influx of pieces submitted for a silent auction from esteemed overseas designers including Yves Saint Laurent, Azzedine Alaia, Bill Blass, and a hat by Givenchy. Marie Helvin, who had a personal motivation to support the cause due to the impact of A.I.D.S. on her friends, expressed her commitment to the event. Marguerite Littman, the founder of A.C.T. and chairwoman, highlighted the urgency of addressing the A.I.D.S. crisis, stating the necessity for public support alongside government funding. She pointed out the uncertainty surrounding the number of people infected in Britain, estimating it could be as high as 40,000. Through her outreach efforts, she successfully garnered over 400 founding members for A.C.T. Both Helvin and Rifat Ozbek acknowledged Littman’s dedication and impact, with Ozbek referring to her as "an angel without wings" for her extensive contributions. Littman herself recognised that the fundraising efforts were merely the start of a long journey in combating the crisis, reiterating the ongoing need for awareness and support.

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