The two great friends are setting standards when it comes to giving back
Words: Charlotte Pasha
Designer Stacey Bendet, the chief executive and founder of fashion brand Alice + Olivia, which has its British flagship on Mayfair's Bruton Street, and socialite, model and fashion designer Nicky Hilton Rothschild have been friends for years. Nicky even walked in one of the early Alice + Olivia shows.
“Our daughters have grown up together and we are truly now like family,” Stacey says. “I have loved seeing her grow her amazing career across design, philanthropy and social media.”
The two are also long-term collaborators on a number of philanthropic causes. Nicky says: “We love collaborating because we're so like-minded; we're both passionate about creating meaningful projects and always try to incorporate a charitable component. We believe in creating with purpose.”
For Nicky, philanthropy is in her roots. “Giving back has always been a part of my family. My great-grandfather, Conrad Hilton, founded the Hilton Foundation and from a young age we were taught the importance of helping others and supporting causes we care about. It's a value I've carried with me throughout my life and one that I'm now passing on to my own children. Teaching them the importance of kindness, generosity and giving back is incredibly important to me.”
Stacey adds: “I am passionate about causes that support women, girls, education, mental health and creative expression. Over the years, I've worked with organisations focused on empowering women, advancing gender equity, supporting families and creating opportunities for underserved communities.
“Off the top of my head we have done work with Global Fund for Women, Vital Voices, LifeWay Network, Ronald McDonald House, EmpowerHer UK, No Kid Hungry and God's Love We Deliver.”
Recently the duo have been working with The Iris Project, a non-profit that was founded in memory of Nicky's niece Iris Goldsmith, daughter of Ben Goldsmith and Kate Rothschild, who died tragically at the age of 15 after losing control of her all-terrain vehicle on the family's farm.
“Iris loved nature and the environment,” Nicky says. “The Iris Project empowers young environmentalists by providing funding, mentorship and support for projects that protect and restore nature.”
Fashion and philanthropy are a natural fit, the women tell me. “Fashion has always been about storytelling, community and culture,” Stacey says. “Those same elements are essential to philanthropy. Fashion has the unique ability to bring people together, start conversations and shine a spotlight on important causes.”
Nicky adds: “Some of the most meaningful projects I've been involved with have combined creativity and philanthropy, using fashion as a platform to raise awareness, funds and support for organisations making a difference.”
Both are mothers, and I ask how we can get young people involved in philanthropy. “Make it personal,” Nicky says. “When they feel connected to a cause and can see the impact they're making, they're much more likely to stay engaged. I also believe in leading by example and involving children early so giving back becomes second nature.”
Stacey says: “The most important thing is helping young people understand that philanthropy isn't only about writing cheques, it's about showing up. Nicky and I did a sandwich-making challenge with Grassroots Grocery before Thanksgiving last year where we made over 100 meals for people who are food insecure.
“It's also about leading by example and empowering the next generation to care. When young people see their parents being involved and the direct impact of their actions, they realise that even small contributions can create meaningful change.
“My daughter Eloise is working on starting her own charity right now, combining her passion for horseback riding and giving back to children with special needs.”
When in London, the two have their favourite local haunts. “I love going to dinner at Harry's Bar,” Nicky says. “It has the most beautiful atmosphere and delicious food. “For cocktails I like The Twenty Two hotel and for shopping, I love strolling down Bond Street to Max Mara, Alice + Olivia and Self-Portrait. Burlington Arcade also has amazing vintage watches and jewellery. To stay, I love Claridge's, it's just the most special place.”
Stacey adds: “I love the energy of Mayfair because it blends heritage and creativity so effortlessly. I enjoy walking through the neighbourhood, visiting galleries and discovering new restaurants like Lilibet's alongside old favourites like Annabel's. Places like The Connaught, Claridge's and Scott's capture that timeless London elegance.”
In a world that doesn't always feel positive, I ask the women what inspires them and how they relax. Nicky says: “I'm inspired by creative people, strong women and anyone who is passionate about what they do. I'm also inspired by my children – they remind me every day to stay curious, optimistic and present. And I love a hot bath, a good facial or a massage. Sometimes the best way to relax is simply doing nothing, lying around and unplugging.”
For Stacey, inspiration comes through “art, architecture, travel, music and the incredible women I meet every day”, while daily Ashtanga yoga helps her to switch off. With philanthropy firmly established in their hearts and brands, a well-deserved break is more than in order for the pair.
