The annual Ferramoda fashion event organised by Dr Juliana Scerri Ferrante that raises money for worthy causes will be held at the Radisson Blu (SAS) Resort ballroom in St Julian’s on 23 November.

This red carpet event has become a regular feature of the Maltese social calendar and this will be the seventh edition. As in previous years, proceeds will go to local orphanages, and this year the money will specifically focus on education and activities for the older children and young adults who will soon be going out into the world. Invitees will be asked to make a donation for this cause at the door.

Dr Scerri Ferrante told FIRST that this aspect of supporting children’s homes is very close to her heart. “It is very important that the teenagers who leave the homes at 18 have the ability to support themselves through work and skills.”

This year, 28 women, two men and two children will be taking to the catwalk and the emphasis will be on genuine products, quality and craftsmanship. “The skill that goes into creating genuine clothing products is in danger of getting lost because of today’s fast life. Like many are doing in the fashion centres of Italy, I feel I should emphasise the importance of valuing craftsmanship here too,” explained Dr Scerri Ferrante.

The event will feature no less than four shows, including one for Lara Spiteri’s handmade collection, the sale of which will go to the Puttinu Cares Foundation; the Lucia Giapponi handmade clothes collection, featuring hand woven dresses from Italy; the Altamoda fashion wear collection; and the Italo-Maltese brand Ambaste’s scarves, bags and belts. Everything on display will be a very exclusive one off of the highest quality.

The event’s main sponsors are Guerlain Make-up, who will be present promoting the Fall and Christmas look 2012 and the new Abeille Royale skincare intense range; Land Rover, who will be promoting their Range Rover Evoque; Vascas, who will promote Louise Erard and Bremont watches, high end diamonds and pearls from Alfaberge; and Rodo, promoting their bags, luggage and fur coat collections.

Other sponsors  and participants include VJ Salomone and their new fragrances by Dolce & Gabbana; Transforma and their cosmetic and beauty services; Environ with their range of skincare products; Pupa’s Deco Christmas 2012 make-up collection; Camilleri Paris Mode; Beauty & Co. beauty and wellnesss treatments; Derek Company Ltd for the flowers and stage decoration;

Camilleri Wines and Nexos lighting. Models’ hair will be by Dina of Posh Salon, San Gwann and Dieter of Beauty & Co. Photography will be by Katerina Vella-Ryabkova, music by Arthur Garret, and the Compére for the evening will be Dr Joseph Chetcuti.

There will be entertainment on the night, thanks to the assistance of Dr Francesca Sansone, and a lottery with impressive prizes will also be held.