High above the streets of New York City, where many people remain hungry and homeless, several New York Jets players put on a fashion show Monday night to raise money for food pantries and soup kitchens.
Held on the 54th floor of 4 World Trade Center, the event was the team’s 12th annual Taste of the Jets benefit, which also featured a smorgasbord of food offerings from some of the city’s top chefs.
The players, including stylish wide receiver Eric Decker, punter Ryan Quigley and center Nick Mangold, among others, walked the runway in looks curated by the team at Saks Fifth Avenue.
“This is our seventh year partnering with the Jets. It’s built on the idea that fashion and sports go really well together,” said Tom Ott, SVP and GMM of men’s at Saks. “Today, so many of the athletes are so well dressed and they influence young people in a way like never before.”
In addition to raising money for the cause, the night showcased fashionable footwear from brands such as Ferragamo, worn by Mangold; Hugo Boss, on linebacker Demario Davis; and G-Star Raw boots on cornerback Dexter McDougle.
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“This year’s fashion show was different because we showed a lot more sportswear and casual looks. In the past, it was very dressy,” said Ott. “And even though we might have sportswear looks, it shows that you can complete an outfit with something that is better, fashionable and more upscale.”
While about 300 fans attended, with the average ticket priced at $375, they were able to mingle with the players, as well as bid on special packages.
One item up for bid included being on field for the coin toss as an honorary team captain for the Dec. 27. Jets vs. Patriots game.
