Tampa Bay fashion label partners with Hillsborough County for those in need

  (TAMPA BAY, FL)—As the coronavirus pandemic continues to ravage communities nationwide, members of various industries have shifted their focus in an attempt to help provide much-needed aid. Craft breweries are making hand sanitizer. Auto parts manufacturers are making ventilators.   And fashion houses are making masks—one of the most simple, yet most desperately needed pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) for both local citizens and those on the frontlines in the battle against COVID-19.   Tampa Bay’s own vintage-inspired couture label Dorothy Zudora is among those brands around the world that have chosen to make the greater good a priority, and put the health and well-being of their communities above their own profit margins. The Brandon-based label has begun manufacturing and distributing cloth masks as a way to do its part in the war America is fighting against an insidious and invisible enemy.   “We got our materials last week, and have already sent out nearly 200 masks,” says Dorothy Zudora founder Heidi Richards. “Most of them went to hospitals, clinics, veterinarians and animal shelters, but anyone in need can hit us up on our Facebook page.”   Heidi says the Dorothy Zudora crew will be able to produce around 300 masks per week. The company isn’t charging for the masks, and has partnered with Hillsborough County to pinpoint areas of need and to distribute the masks to those areas. It’s just another way that independent businesses have found to support those that support them in a time of need.   “It’s been really inspiring to see how people have stepped up to take care of one another during this unprecedented hardship,” says Heidi. “We’re all about style, but the most important thing is doing what we can to make sure everybody stays safe and healthy.”  

ABOUT DOROTHY ZUDORA: Founded by lifelong local musician and creative Heidi Richards, Tampa Bay fashion label Dorothy Zudora creates clothing inspired by Hollywood’s most glamorous and timeless looks and individuals. Dresses, suits, ball gowns and more are handcrafted on-site at the company’s cozy Brandon headquarters of the finest materials available. dorothyzudora.comFor more information or to schedule an interview, contact us at design@dorothyzudora.com or (813)425-1315