By Denise Asuncion

A lot of sexy parties have been thrown in Toronto over the years. But few can compare to Fashion Cares, the annual benefit held for the Aids Committee of Toronto (ACT). Celebrating its 21st birthday, this year’s bash was held on May 12th in Toronto’s Historic Distillery District. Adopting a new, provocative theme each year, Fashion Cares 2007 was called Peep and featured a retro, burlesque theme. What has set Fashion Cares apart from other high profile events in the past has been the combination of A-list entertainers, fashion/glamour and the undeniably worthwhile cause. With an overall attendance of close to 3000 and performers such as Kelly Rowland and Dita Von Teese, this year was certainly no exception.

Since its humble beginning Fashion Cares has evolved into the largest volunteer event in the world. It has raised over ten million dollars to support ACT which has come to rely on the annual gala for approximately 25% of its yearly budget. With Fashion Cares, ACT, a charity committed to delivering, effective community-based support, education, prevention and outreach of HIV/AIDS, would simply be unable to meet the increasing demand for services especially with its limited government funding.

Although the spirit of Fashion Cares remains the same, changes have been made to the event each year to keep it fresh and exciting. This year was a year of many firsts. Probably the most significant addition was Chip Quigley assuming the role of Executive Producer. Chip, whose company Kingdom Entertainment is no stranger to high profile fundraisers, said he was "honored and excited" to be a part of the event. Another fresh face to the gala was Jay Manuel, best known as a judge of America’s Next Top Model and current host of the 2nd season of Canada’s Next Top Model, who hosted this year’s show. Jay was also enthusiastic to be a part of Fashion Cares and expressed that by combining entertainment with the serious cause bringing a positively to it, "It’s time we start looking at the glass as half full!" Another exciting first was the dynamic venue of the Distillery District. With its romantic cobblestone walkways, the Distillery District added another dimension to an already vivacious night.

What has set Fashion Cares apart from other high profile events in the past has been the combination of A-list entertainers, fashion/glamour and the undeniably worthwhile cause.

The late spring evening began with a cocktail reception where early guests could enjoy the festive environment and listen to the beats of DJ Sydney Blu. The event was set up so there was plenty to explore as the whole area had been closed off for the event. Patrons could mingle amongst themselves, visit the boutique or place a bid on special silent auction items with 100% of the proceeds of course going to ACT. By mid evening, gala tickets holders were ushered to their designated restaurants to enjoy elaborate four course meals. This year 10 stunning and distinct venues within the district hosted the dinners which were conceptualized by separate in-house culinary team. This "Dine by Design" concept was also new to the event.

The height of the evening came after dinner when Mya, Bedouin Soundclash, Dita Von Teese, Kelly Rowland and others took to the stage to give everyone a knockout show. Dita warmed up the crowd by performing her infamous cocktail glass show, which involved an old school strip tease and a larger than life glass of champagne. Both Mya and Kelly performed songs off their upcoming records. Another highlight of the show was the world premiere of the new girl group Girlesque which is made up of three finalists of the reality show, "Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll".

It goes without saying that Peep! Fashion Cares 2007 was a night to remember. In a day and age where there is so much help needed in so many communities, Fashion Cares gives people the opportunity to contribute while also having fun. This was definitely a party you didn’t want to miss. But if you happen to be one of the unfortunate few who did, don’t worry because there is always next year.