How Models Plan to Make a Difference This Fashion Week

Courtesy CFDA

Sure, they’ll be busy hitting the runways, but New York City’s most famous models will also be helping a cause when they step out for Fashion Week this September.

Yet again, a bevy of beauties are teaming up with fashion photographer Nigel Barker, Nine West and the Council of Fashion Designers of America to promote Nine West’s charitable “Runway Relief” collection, a line of apparel including a tank top, bag, hat, sunglasses and jeans, proceeds from which benefit Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. Models like Chrissy Teigen and Elsa Hosk will wear the goods throughout Fashion Week — Sept. 6-13 — to promote the cause.

“I love seeing how this industry can make a difference,” Teigen tells PEOPLE. “We have an obligation to set an example and to use our voices for these types of causes. There’s a lot of power in this.”

Hosk, whose aunt battled breast cancer, agrees. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to raise funds and awareness for this cause,” she shares, “and to be able to tell my aunt that I am doing as much as I can to help spread the word.”

The models shot the 2012 campaign recently in New York City, in an empty lot in Manhattan’s trendy Meatpacking District. And in addition to the photos, a Fashion Targets Breast Cancer PSA is set to debut soon, staring fashion heavy-hitters like Diane von Furstenberg, Charlotte Ronson and Rebecca Minkoff.

“I love it when my imagery can make a difference, and can change hearts and minds and educate somebody,” Barker tells PEOPLE. “I hope this campaign encourages people to donate, volunteer or advocate for the issue. We’re getting bigger and bigger every year.”

Want to help? Find the goods for yourself at Nine West stores and on ninewest.com.