Kenneth Cole for a Cause

(NEW YORK) W Hotels is giving back by donating $9,000 worth of its Kenneth Cole-designed uniforms to the nonprofit Dress for Success. "These women truly deserve it," said Jenni Benzaquen, director of public relations, Luxury Brands Group. "W Hotels is proud to be a part of this wonderful organization's efforts."

Lower-income women will benefit from the Cole originals to outfit themselves for job interviews and work opportunities. "We knew these women would look great on their interviews," stated Benzaquen confidently. "They're understated but sexy, fashionable but work-appropriate, giving women confidence when looking for a job. They make our staff feel confident in their look, so we knew they would do the same for women everywhere."

The W brand's teaming with Kenneth Cole came naturally. "W seeks out exciting fashion brands to partner with on all levels," continued Benzaquen. "His design spoke to W's overall design aesthetic which is modern, sublime and sophisticated. He was the perfect designer for us."

Kenneth Cole was the chic hotel chain's first designer collaboration, which is now partnered with Michael Kors for its W staff uniforms. W Hotels have also worked with the CFDA to have 30 designers, including Diane von Furstenberg, Michael Kors, and Carolina Herrera, redesign its signature W Robes, which were auctioned off to benefit Fashion Targets Breast Cancer in a charity called Robes to Recovery in September 2006.
ANGELA GAIMARI