Fashionistas can now do their part against cancer and look fantastic in the process.

Michael Ball, founder of the hip, high-end jean label Rock & Republic, recently launched the “Rock the Cure” campaign, which will raise funds for City of Hope’s cancer research initiatives. A portion from the profits of from sales of special “Rock the Cure” jeans and T-shirts will be directed to the institution’s stem cell and immunotherapy research.

Introductory items will include jeans and thematic T-shirts for men and women. As the “Rock the Cure” campaign expands, more consumer items will be added.

Available now, all “Rock the Cure" items are featured at Saks Fifth Avenue stores. By mid-September, retailers also will include Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Fred Segal, 42 Saint, and Frankie M.

Similar to other Ball-inspired clothing, “Rock the Cure” items will range in price from $88 for T-shirts to $295 for jeans. More details are available at www.rock-the-cure.org.

Ball's novel use of fashion-based clothing to lend a higher profile to the need for cancer research is part of his broader philanthropy. His colleagues, particularly those involved with City of Hope’s Apparel Industries Group, honored his contributions by recently naming him as their 2007 Spirit of Life® honoree. The Spirit of Life Award is given annually in recognition of individuals who have made a notable contribution to both their community and profession.