Judith Leiber and Universal Platinum Recording Artist Nelly Come Together for a Fundraising Event at the New Flagship Store in New York City

Judith Leiber and Universal Platinum Recording Artist Nelly Come Together for a Fundraising Event at the New Flagship Store in New York City

NEW YORK, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Judith Leiber, the American luxury brand known for its crystal and exotic skin accessories often seen on the red carpet, will team up with rap superstar Nelly for a private in-store event on Thursday, May 5. The VIP fundraising event will benefit Nelly's non-profit foundation, 4Sho4Kids, which provides literacy and other educational and social programs to underprivileged inner-city youth.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050427/LAW053)

The event will feature a live auction with Nelly as auctioneer and will boast one-of-a-kind items including a diamond encrusted Hello Kitty minaudiere co-designed by Judith Leiber and Kimora Lee Simmons valued at $125,000 (opening bid $50,000!); an alligator and diamond PDA case co-developed by Judith Leiber and Simmons Jewelry Co.; VIP backstage tickets to Nelly's upcoming Sweat & Suit tour; and, an autographed "Nellyville" jacket and Nike Air Force 1 sneakers contributed by the rap star himself. In addition to the auction items, a limited edition PDA case will be available by special order at Judith Leiber's flagship store through August 31st.

Proceeds from this event and the sale of the special PDA case will benefit 4Sho4Kids, a nonprofit foundation, which is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children born with developmental disabilities and children born, addicted to drugs. 4Sho4Kids also supports the Jes Us 4 Jackie campaign, a national marrow registry in honor of Nelly's sister, Jackie Donahue, who recently lost her battle with leukemia.

"What I am trying to do with 4Sho4Kids and children nationwide, is to encourage them to use their minds and provide them with a positive environment," says Nelly. "Collaborating with Judith Leiber allows us to raise funds for the foundation and provides children with a better alternative other than the streets. So not only is this is an exciting joint venture for both Judith Leiber and myself but an event for a good cause."

Judith Leiber and Nelly's relationship began with the release of his hit single this past summer "Flap Your Wings," in which he gives a shout-out to Leiber. As a thank you, Judith Leiber designed a custom monogrammed PDA case for his Sidekick(C) in royal blue alligator and crystals.

Serious inquiries should contact: inquiry@judith leiber.com or 212.736.4244

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050427/LAW053 AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/ AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN3 PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Source: Judith Leiber

CONTACT: Jennifer Glucksman, Vice President Public Relations of Judith Leiber, +1-212-736-4244, Jenniferg@judithleiber.com

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