There is something of a minor trend at the moment of car companies seeking to ally themselves with the fashion world (see Isaac Mizrahi's collaboration with the Chevy Malibu).
Ford is continuing the trend by hosting a panel discussion called "From Runway to Driveway", to discuss and compare design processes in the fashion and car industries.The panel is geared to highlight Ford's 2013 Fusion.
"Simply put, Fusion is a fashion statement, so it's no surprise the two worlds merge so effortlessly," Anthony Prozzi, Ford's senior interior designer and a former designer for Donna Karan, said in the statement announcing the panel. "Our goal is to offer a car that is drop-dead gorgeous - something our customers can justify on a rational level as well as one they can relate to on an emotional level."
He alluded to a growing common thread in both industries: recognition of the need to put premium products within reach of shoppers who can't or don't want to pay premium prices.
"Consumers today expect functionality and quality, but also style and a sense of 'premium' that usually comes with a designer label - and all with an attainable price tag," he said. "Designers like Jason Wu with his line at Target and Versace at H&M are making high-end products within reach of more customers."
Ford casts the Fusion as a blend of beauty and functionality. The car has available "Repreve" seat fabric made from a blend of recycled plastic bottles and post-consumer waste; and Ford uses soy-based foam for seat cushions. This, the company claims, reduces petroleum usage by 4 million pounds and carbon dioxide emissions by roughly 20 million pounds.
"At the same time, being eco-friendly doesn't mean you have to compromise on good looks - the all-new Fusion is a clear testament to that," the company said.
Panelists mentioned by Ford are Mark Edge, founder and CEO of Mark Edge Jewelry; Edmond Newton, a designer whose menswear line is Edmond Andre; and Cinda Boomershine, of the handbag label is cinda b.
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