On Wednesday night on the 63rd floor of the not-yet-open One World Trade Center in New York City, with the city’s skyline twinkling in the background, Cat Footwear took to the catwalk as part of the J Summer Fashion Show, presented by J Model Management. Inspired by model, entrepreneur and founder of J Model Management Jessica Minh Anh’s vision, Cat was one of eight designers (and the only American brand) picked from four continents to celebrate cultural integration. The label showcased its Fall ’14 collection of timeless classics with a contemporary twist through rich leathered designs for men and easy-to-wear heels for women.
“As soon as we heard that the venue was the Freedom Tower, we knew we had to participate,” says Alyson Roy, publicist for Cat Footwear. “The Freedom Tower represents strength, rebuilding, resilience and the American Dream, and Caterpillar is an iconic American brand that is all about building up communities and skylines with rugged attitude.” Already available in 140 countries worldwide and known internationally as a fashion brand, Roy says the event was “a great opportunity to further introduce the American market to the fashion and lifestyle side of Cat’s business.” She adds, “Several people expressed that they were genuinely impressed by the venue and felt very touched and emotional about being inside the Freedom Tower. It was a great tie-in for the Caterpillar brand.”
Cat was joined by Filipino talent Puey Quinones, Russian sensation Alina German, Peruvian artist Norka Peralta, Spanish designer Diego Cortizas, Indonesia’s Hay United, Indian fashion house Libas Reshma Riyaz Gangji and Lebanese celebrity designer Ziad Nakad. A VIP networking party followed the runway show, where participating designers and guests were treated to sips and bites by French chef Sebastien Pourrat, owner of Cocotte Soho New York.
