Sitting at small table amongst the hustle and bustle of local coffee shop at the Pearl sits the fashionable Matthew Smith III with black leather jacket, wide rimmed had with a red bottom and one of the biggest smiles I have ever seen. Behind the smile of Fashion For Life founder, Smith describes his passion for fashion and his reason for bringing awareness and financial support to domestic violence.
Smith is a military veteran, actor, model, and advocate. He has worked to create a men’s fashion show to house local male models, fashion choices for men only and show the men of San Antonio that fashion is equally as much for men as it is for women. The fashion that will be presented will range from “suits to urban wear to the model’s creative flair,” Smith proudly states.
Smith sees the future of what he is doing with his passion and hopes to continue to bring awareness and funding to local nonprofits. As a child, Smith recalls witnessing his mother being abused at the hands of his father. A story many of us have heard or experienced unfortunately. He is dedicating this show to his mother and wants to not only focus on shining a spotlight on San Antonio’s fashion scene but to mesh advocacy with his events as well. As a domestic violence survivor, I can see how passionate Smith is to bring his dream of helping others to fruition. I believe that we can have a good time and support local artists while also educating ourselves on ways to give back to our community.
The Fashion For Life Men’s Fashion happening October 17th from 6-9pm is almost sold out. Guest speakers will be sharing their stories as current advocates and survivors. Tickets can be purchased at fashionforlife.ticketbud.com and will take place a Hotel Discotheque followed by an after party which is included in the price of the ticket or $25 if you only want to attend the after party. So come down and support this great event for a great cause. If you or anyone you know is in need of help, you can call 800.799.SAFE (888-799-7233).