This is the tenth involvement on the part of MINI in Europe's biggest charity event in support of HIV/AIDS - Life Ball in Vienna. The 18th event takes place in capitol of Austria on 17th July 2010 will once again be a hot spot for the international celebrity set.

Since 2001, one of the chief protagonists at the Life Ball has been a MINI created by a fashion designer. This year for the first time, three different MINI models will be decorated by a trio of world-renowned names from the world of fashion.

The first one is Calvin Klein Collection's award-winning Women's Creative Director Francisco Costa, who will be designing the MINI Countryman, the brand's new crossover model.

The second is the US fashion designer with Belgian roots Diane von Furstenberg.  She will add her artistic touch to a MINI Hatch.

Last, but not least, New York's Kenneth Cole will imprint his unmistakable style on a MINI Convertible.

These exclusive collector's items are to be auctioned on behalf of the charity supported by the Life Ball, with the proceeds going to amfAR (the Foundation for AIDS Research).

The previous Life Ball MINIs have never failed to thrill with their outré designs. Indeed, their history reads like a Who's Who of the fashion industry: Missoni (2003), Ferré (2004), Versace (2005), Diesel (2006), Mario Testino (2007), Agent Provocateur (2008) and, last year, The Blonds for Katy Perry. Proceeds now total around EUR 500 000.

MINI Life Ball Vienna (2010) - picture 1 of 3
MINI Life Ball Vienna (2010) - picture 2 of 3
MINI Life Ball Vienna (2010) - picture 3 of 3