The Greater Washington Fashion Chamber of Commerce held its first annual State of Style Advocacy Day, Awards Ceremony and Fashion Benefit on May 20, 2010.

In the morning, Advocacy staff met with their U.S. senators and representatives to discuss the GWFCC mission as well as the importance of the newly formed Congressional Apparel Manufacturing and Fashion Business Caucus.

Later that afternoon, the GWFCC recognized and honored a number of pioneers and leaders in the fashion industry. Angie Goff, WUSA-TV 9 officially opened the awards ceremony. She spoke earnestly about the importance of the fashion industry in D.C. and why she is so involved with the efforts of the GWFCC. GWFCC President, Christine Brooks-Cropper, added a few words about what this day meant to her and to the continuing mission of the GWFCC.

With opening remarks and introductions complete, it was time to shine the spotlight on recipients of this year's State of Style Awards. The recipients were as follows:

Jewelry Designer and GWFCC Member of the Year, Evelyn Brooks received the GWFCC Fashion Chamber Choice Award; 2009 Project Fundway Winner Adegbemisola Ademisoye received the GWFCC Fashion Scholarship Award; Eco-conscious Fashion Designer Lara Miller received the Leadership in Emerging Business Award, Eric Martin of the Save the Garment District Inc, accepted the Fashion Advocacy of the Year Award, and the pioneer and legendary creator of NY Fashion Week, Fern Mallis, accepted the Elements of Fashion Legacy Award.

All of the award recipients were inspiring but Fern Mallis truly moved me. She spoke about how the French and Italian governments are heavily involved with their fashion industries and so the importance of fashion to their economy. She added that she would love to see that happen here and applauded Brooks-Cropper for her efforts, particularly in getting the Fashion Caucus established on Capitol Hill.

The day was topped off with a fabulous fashion gala at The District in Adams Morgan hosted by WKYS personality Jeannie Jones with music by DJ Neekola, DJ Adrian Loving and the House of Echo band. Four lucky recipients received raffle prizes from Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, Cartier and The District. All proceeds from the day's events were donated to the DC Fashion Foundation in support of its ongoing efforts in fashion education.