A Fashion Designer Employs Those Pulled Out Of Slavery

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Did you know that close to 4.5 million people are victims of human trafficking worldwide? Human trafficking is an injustice that is operating on a global scale and it is our heart to see it ended. When we see companies dedicating their time to help combat trafficking we applaud their efforts and hope to see them thrive in their endeavors. Elegantees is a company making gains to help revolutionize the fashion industry, redefining what it means to be beautiful. Founder Kate Martinez, had a vision to take simple tees and use them as a tool for the work of bringing restoration to the victims of human trafficking. Since 2012, Elegantees have been exclusively sewn by women rescued from trafficking, giving them a way to earn income, while rebuilding self-esteem and confidence as they re-enter society.

Today, we are excited to share a lookbook from a recent photo shoot featuring the Audrey tank and the Clarisa tee from Elegantees.

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Elegantees has sewing operations in Nepal and New York City. With plans to streamline their NYC locations in 2014, they are moving forward in creating a modest fashion image that will touch many lives.

If you would like to read more about Elegantees or shop their on-line store visit www.elegantees.com.

Another Glimpse into the One and Only Christian Fashion Week

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If you were in awe of our first glimpse of Christian Fashion Week, you'll definitely love these looks as well. Pay attention to any common themes throughout each line, because they're just a glimpse into what this Spring season has to offer. [divider_line]

designer 2 Designer Mikra uses fashion as a ministry tool. As pictured, her line is full of vibrant hues of blue and orange. We think these are great looks for Spring because the colors are so rich and the floral embellishments are just as in tune with the season.

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designer 3 The designer --  Dali Hernandez of House of Dali -- loves to put God first and fashion next. The first look is a perfect piece to have in your wardrobe because every lady needs a little black dress. Dali loves to play around with colors and textures, as seen in her blue maxi dress and bright pink tutu. While we don't think all of these outfits are practical for a day out and about, we do appreciate their playful nature.

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designer 4 "Elegant" was the first word that came to mind when we spotted this line by Jessica Rios from All Brides 2 Be. It was so hard to select our favorite four looks because each gown was equally beautiful in its own way. Designer Rios is so gifted in her eye for creating cuts that are flattering to all body types and figures. We love the fabrics she used as she incorporated chiffon, silk, tulle and more. In need of a dress for prom, graduation, or even a wedding? They have it all!

Our Top Buttons favorite definitely has to be the fourth gown pictured. This wedding dress is so intricately detailed with its beading and coordinating veil.

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designer 6 In an conversation after the show, we learned that designer Angel Myers is a school teacher by day and designer by night. We admire her hard work ethic, because as you can see her designs are flawless. Myers' collection is fun, colorful, and really appealing to the eye. Her designs include a lot of options for plus-size models, which is a quality hard to find in the fashion industry.

We appreciate the bright watercolor canvas of the first look. The A-line mold of the dress compliments any body type. Dress number two features cape-like patterned sleeves that are a bit unconventional, yet it somehow works against the sea-green maxi dress. Outfit number three had us all reminiscing back to the days when the Cheetah Girls was a thing. We love the one-shoulder look which was leveled out by a high-low quality on the opposite side. The leather leggings made it all complete. Finally, dress four speaks for itself with its simple shape.

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designer 7 If you haven't noticed a common trend between all of these fashion lines yet, look again. Each one features BRIGHT COLORS, which are super popular in the Spring. One thing that makes this designer -- Elaine by EJ -- stand out from the rest, is her high-waisted pants and skirts. The way EJ designs these outfits is so cutting edge and slimming. Also, check out how simple and sleek this line is with its clever color-blocking. Expect to see a lot more of these trends on the clothing racks this Spring!

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designer 8 Elegantees is a line that is so much more behind what meets the eye. They have a beautiful back story. Many of the women who sew these clothes have been rescued victims of sex-trafficking. Who knew that you could look cute, express your personality, all while knowing that such purpose is stitched into the seams of each article of clothing!

Co-founder of Christian Fashion Week -- Mayra Gomez -- fashions outfit number two! She looks like an Egyptian goddess with her gold headband and gold trimming on her blouse. The cold-shoulder sleeves expose her arms, and her vibrant green skirt is cinched into one side.

Outfit three is just perfect with its red-on-red composition. The tulle tutu isn't just for the runway! We actually saw her wearing this look as an audience member on a different day!

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All in all, we were well pleased with the show from start to finish and we hope that our documentations of the runway made you feel like you were part of the process too!