One of the UK’s longest running Vogue Editors has helped raise thousands of pounds for a charity helping women get back into employment through fashion choices.

Following an evening of fashion with Alexandra Shulman which was attended by 100 women at Ascot racecourse, £6000 was raised for charity Smart Works Reading.

The Q&A was hosted by ambassador and fashion writer, Ginny Chadwyck- Healey and took place in the Parade Restaurant at Ascot Racecourse on October 12.

READ MORE: Emergency services open new tri-service fire station providing 'improved response times' for residents

Chair of Smart Works Reading Helen Francis was delighted with the flagship fashion fundraising event and wanted to thank everyone for donating their time and services to help raise essential money for the charity.  “The event was an enormous success, and we were thrilled to have such an influential name in fashion supporting us.

“The money we raised will go towards funding our centre in Reading from which we run our transformational job interview and coaching service, helping women land a job and gain financial independence.”

Shulman chatted about her time at the famous magazine which she ran for 25 years, including her moments of the red-carpets mingling with royaly.

She said that the centenary exhibition to celebrate 100 years of Vogue was “probably one of the best moments at the magazine”.

READ MORE: Burger King in Wokingham announces complete refurbishment

Reading from her book Clothes…and other things that matter, Shulman talked about how clothes can act as armour to get people through difficult times.  “I so believe that clothes are your superpower. You can project whatever you want to project through your clothes” she told the audience.

The driving principles of Smart Works is their belief that fashion is a ‘force for good’. This is something that both Ginnie and Alexandra believe in.

Ginnie Chadwyck-Healey commented: “Smart Works Reading is a place that helps so many women pursue their goals.

“It allows women to relish a newfound freedom and to enjoy an untapped autonomy that they gain as they set off on a new job path. It’s a volunteer-led service that rewards those that step out of their comfort zone and ask for help.  Something that not many of us are good at. 

READ MORE: Bracknell neighbourhood get false and malicious posters through door

“And in doing so they really do succeed and 72% of clients secure work two months after a Smart Works consultation.”

Talking about Smart Works, Shulman said: “I’ve always had a slight connection to Smart Works and it really appeals to me because I really understand what it aims to do and succeeds in doing.

“It’s wonderful to see such a simple idea that can make so much difference. It is a fantastic charity.”