Q&A | Skye Hankey on philanthropy and supporting emerging designers via Fashion Trust US
Skye Hankey, who started out as a successful luxury property agent before marrying Rufus Hankey, the son of car loan mogul Don Hankey, is a regular at the White House and has graced glamorous events such as the Cannes Film Festival and the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Awards. She has also had a front-row seat to the inner workings of the fashion industry since she started appearing on red carpets around the world and hobnobbing with industry insiders such as Giambattista Valli and Fernando Garcia, and celebrities ranging from Kim Kardashian to Salma Hayek.
When looking for a fashion organisation to champion as part of her philanthropic portfolio, Hankey opted for Fashion Trust US, a non-profit set up in 2022 to support US-based fashion designers through grants and mentorship programmes. A spin-off of Fashion Trust Arabia, the entity has, over the years, awarded independent designers such as Rachel Scott of Diotima and honoured luminaries like Anthony Vaccarello of Saint Laurent.
Skye Hankey was at the White House for an Easter event this month. Photo: Handout
Earlier this week, Hankey, who made a significant but undisclosed donation to the non-profit and is a judge and a member of its advisory board, flew to Los Angeles to attend the latest edition of Fashion Trust US, where she presented the accessories award to designer Andrea Marron. Clad in a dress by one of the winners, Marcelle Barbosa, she was front and centre at the high-profile award ceremony, which also celebrated young talent such as Zane Li of LII and honoured Tory Burch as designer of the year.
We caught up with Hankey to learn more about her involvement with Fashion Trust US and her other philanthropic endeavours.
How did you learn about Fashion Trust US, and why did you decide to support the non-profit?
I was introduced to Fashion Trust US through friends in the fashion community and immediately connected with its mission. Supporting emerging designers is something I deeply believe in. Fashion thrives on new voices and fresh perspectives. Fashion Trust US creates real opportunities for designers to grow and sustain their businesses, and I wanted to be part of something that has such a meaningful and lasting impact on the industry.
Skye Hankey with actress Pamela Anderson. Photo: Handout
Why do you think it’s important to support emerging talent in fashion?
Emerging designers are the future of fashion. They bring originality, innovation and new ways of thinking that push the industry forward. Without support, many of these incredibly talented individuals wouldn’t have the resources to succeed. Investing in them helps keep fashion dynamic, diverse and culturally relevant.
