The supermodel said she was horrified by images of the disaster and immediately resolved to help. "I just felt shock. I didn't believe what I was watching.

"The Japanese people are so strong and proud and resilient, and for this to happen to them is so terrible," she said.

"I have been there many times - not since the earthquake, but I do hope to go soon. Japan has been a very important factor in my career and I love the country.

"The destruction caused by the earthquake is completely heartbreaking, it's so hard to even begin to comprehend the tragic loss the people of Japan are coping with. I felt very passionate to try and help in whatever way possible, to do our part and to support Japan at this time. I hope that the money raised from Fashion For Relief in Cannes will support those who need it most."

Campbell has enlisted her A-list friends for the show, which will be held tomorrow night at the historic Forville Market in Cannes. Past participants include Kate Moss and Dame Shirley Bassey.

Designers have donated red carpet dresses for the show, while Dolce & Gabbana have made charity T-shirts.

The event will be followed by an auction, which includes artworks by Tracey Emin and Dennis Hopper, and a customised Lotus Évora. It is being staged in collaboration with Vogue Italia and all funds raised will go to the Japanese Red Cross.

Franco Sozzani, editor in chief of Vogue Italia, said; "We want to send out a strong message to support the Japanese people in such a dramatic moment. It is also important to remember at this time the enormous contribution which Japan has always given to the world of fashion and culture."

Campbell founded Fashion for Relief in 2005 with a show in aid of Hurricane Katrina victims. So far it has raised £4.5 million.