Lexus Sponsors Rodarte During Fashion Week in New York

Emerging designer's passion for detail strikes accord with automaker

TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 7 -- Lexus returns to the New York fashion scene to sponsor Rodarte during Fashion Week in New York. The luxury automaker will sponsor the Sept. 8, 2007 spring show taking place at Dia: Chelsea.

"Lexus and Rodarte share many core values that make this partnership a natural fit," says Deborah Senior, corporate manager, Lexus marketing communications and strategy. "Kate and Laura Mulleavy have such a passion for couture detail and an excellence in craftsmanship and innovation. At Lexus, we strive to create the best luxury automobiles and understand the imagination and attention to detail that are required to create beautiful art and design. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to share designs from this rising star in the fashion world that truly exemplify the pursuit of perfection."

Rodarte's spring line will continue to impress fashion critics. As with all pieces in the line, the couture styles will showcase the imagination, meticulous attention to detail and sophistication that have made the brand an award winning powerhouse in such a short time. Show credits feature the following recognized personalities: makeup by James Kaliardos, creative hair direction by Odile Gilbert (formerly with Chanel Couture, Lacroix couture and Gaultier couture) and footwear from Christian Louboutin.

Rodarte design team Kate and Laura Mulleavy state, "The seamless combination of innovation and luxury that distinguishes Lexus, is inspiring to us as designers."

Lexus recently sponsored the Rodarte fall show in February. The sponsorship was a result of Lexus' participation in the 2006 CFDA competition. Lexus recognized the brand similarities and decided to return to Fashion Week with Rodarte.

These sponsorships are part of Lexus' ongoing efforts to support the Fashion and Design industries. Lexus strives to partner with emerging designers and artists whose vision matches the brand.

About Lexus

Lexus has become synonymous with luxury since its introduction in 1989. By offering some of the finest quality luxury vehicles and providing benchmark customer service, Lexus has remained the top-selling luxury nameplate in the United States for seven years in a row. Lexus and its 223 dealers have repeatedly achieved high honors for both the products they sell and the customer service they provide.

NOTE TO EDITORS: To download exclusive editorial photos after the show, visit http://www.LexusPressKits.com