Politicians, like fashion designers are always on the hunt
for exciting new ways to generate mass appeal. Politicians
appeal to us to support their causes and legislative
agendas, while designers appeal to our senses and
desires for new and innovative fashions. Two very different
arenas, current politics and fashion coincide because they
are both fueled by an image for change. This month IMG
presents you with, “Fashion Wins” as the theme for
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week New York Spring 09
international designer showcase of collections.

As Democratic presidential hopeful, Barack Obama,
campaigns across America, he is using his very unique
political style, image and promise for change to persuade
American voters that he should be elected to lead and
design a new political make-over for our country. The
designers presenting their Spring 09 collections during
Fashion Week New York are using their brand name,
reputation and creative ingenuity to declare and mandate
what we should wear and change into for the coming
season.

Get ready for change, as U.S. voters will soon decide who
will be their next president in office and international buyers,
press and fashion industry execs name the star collections
of Fashion Week for the Spring 09 season.

VIEW the Fashion Week New York Schedule of Events.
www.mbfashionweek.com/newyork
AMERICAN EXPRESS ANNOUNCES DESIGNER ZAC POSEN TO PRESENT ENCORE SHOW FOR CARDMEMBERS ON
FINAL DAY OF MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK

Invitations On Sale to Experience Runway Spectacle and Interact With One of America’s Top Designers

American Express announced in August that they will collaborate with famed designer Zac Posen to present a one-of-a-
kind private runway show for American Express® Cardmembers at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.  On Friday,
September 12 at 9:30 PM in New York City, Cardmembers will have access to floor seats normally filled by the top
names in fashion and entertainment and have the opportunity to experience the thrill of a live show under the tents at
Bryant Park.  As a part of American Express’ continued support of designers and the fashion industry, proceeds from the
sale of event tickets will contribute to the $500,000 American Express donation to the Council of Fashion Designers of
America Vogue Fashion Fund which helps emerging American designers find continued success in the business of
fashion.   

“This event is truly an exciting opportunity for me to work with American Express and give their Cardmembers access to
my work and inspirations in a special behind-the-scenes format,” said designer Zac Posen. “The support from American
Express has made a huge impact on the fashion industry, especially their partnership and financial support of the
CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund which has been integral in providing a platform for many budding designers.”

Known for his strong feminine aesthetic and a favorite with fashion editors and celebrities alike, Zac Posen is one of the
most sought-after designers in the fashion industry.  Preceded by an exclusive reception held onsite in the Main Lobby of
the tents at Bryant Park, the Cardmember-only show will feature Posen’s entire runway presentation for his Spring 2009
Collection.  Immediately following this closing event of the season, Posen will return to the spotlight to engage in a
question and answer session and provide additional insight on his inspirations and creative process, making it a truly
memorable night for all in attendance.

Invitations to the unforgettable event are now on sale at www.americanexpress.com/entertainment.  Each invite costs
$150, and gives guests access to the pre-show reception in the Main Lobby of the tents at Bryant Park, and general
admission seating for the runway show and post-show Q&A with Posen.  There is a limit of four invites per Cardmember
account.

“Zac Posen is an inspiring designer who has been able to expertly combine design innovation with passionate
determination to become a leader in the fashion industry,” said Jessica Igoe, Director of Marketing and Sponsorships,
American Express.  “We are proud to provide our Cardmembers a unique opportunity into the insight behind his
collection and experience the excitement of the runways in a whole new way.”  

About American Express
American Express Company is a leading global payments, network and travel company founded in 1850. For more
information,
www.americanexpress.com.

About Zac Posen
Zac Posen, headquartered in New York, is a global luxury apparel company which designs, markets, licenses and
distributes women’s clothing and accessories under the Zac Posen label. The Zac Posen designer collection and
accessories are sold globally in select stores including Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, Neiman Marcus, Harvey Nichols, le
Bon Marche, Vakko and specialty boutiques worldwide.  Under the direction of Zac Posen, the company has experienced
rapid growth over the past several years. Zac Posen presents four ready-to-wear collections per year and appeals to
sophisticated, feminine, strong women of all ages. In addition to day wear, suiting, and evening wear, the Zac Posen
luxury lifestyle also includes fur and handbag collections. In 2009 Posen will launch a Zac Posen fragrance, as well as
timepieces. See
www.zacposen.com.

About CFDA/VOGUE Fashion Fund
The CFDA/VOGUE Fashion Fund (CVFF) is an endowment that was established to help emerging American design
talent find continued success in the business of fashion. In addition to business grants of $200,000 to the winner and
$50,000 each to the two runners-up, the award includes mentorship from a panel of industry professionals whose
expertise is tailored to the designers’ needs and future goals. Since its inception in 2003, the program has granted
nearly $1.3 million to twelve different design companies.  
www.cfda.com
Zac Posen Fall 08 Runway Designs