Despite the way-below-freezing temperatures, the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary kicked off its Fashion Show And Luncheon at Amber and Michael Cohen‘s brand-new mansion on Tuesday, January 21. It was a busy night for some who just minutes before had been at the St. Valentine’s Luncheon And Fashion Show patron party at Carolina Herrera in Highland Park Village. And speaking of design, SAWA President Laura Downing and Luncheon Chair Stacey Walker revealed that in addition to the fundraiser’s Chic Boutique and runway presentation of gently experienced clothes, designer Patti Flowers had created a sweeping red ball gown that will be the show’s finale. Here’s a report from the field.
Everyone was “seeing red” at the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Fashion Show and Luncheon Kick-Off reception on Tuesday, January 21, at Amber and Michael Cohen’s newly completed contemporary mansion off Walnut Hill Lane situated in the center of the North Dallas neighborhood where many estates were pummeled by the devastating tornadoes a few years ago.
Amber confessed that she was scrambling during the recent cold snap to get the new home ready for the 100+plus guests who endured temperatures in the 20s to see the impressive home and hear plans for the fashion show.
The red that appeared to be the color of choice was, of course, in celebration of the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary’s signature color that permeates the event’s promotional materials and is even prominently featured at the finale of the Fashion Show each year. With Party Co-Chairs Nancy Gopez and Sunie Solomon, Luncheon Chair Stacey Walker and Auxiliary President Laura Downing, both clad in “Salvation Army red” greeted guests like Pam Busbee, Christie Carter, Elizabeth Gambrell, Judy Gibbs, Shannon Graham, Ramona Jones, Brooke Shelby and Candace Winslow upon arrival.
In keeping with “seeing red” traditional, longtime Salvation Army Auxiliary member and couturier Patti Flowers, unveiled her creation for this year’s luncheon finale. The sweeping red ballgown with elegant light-color appliques will be worn on the runway and then auctioned at the May event at the Meyerson Symphony Center.
Patti, herself, a former Auxiliary Fashion Show Chair, breezed in with a huge color rendering of the gown and promptly displayed it by the roaring fire where guests gathered. Among those enjoying the warmth were Honorary Chair Louise Griffeth, Love In Action Award recipient Toni Turner, who will be honored at the luncheon. Bitter cold kept Margot Perot Award recipient Nancy Dedman and Legacy Award recipient Millie Cooper from attending. Both are charter members of the Auxiliary and plan to attend the luncheon.
Stacey also announced the return of the Legacy Luncheon, which was inaugurated four years ago, to honor former Fashion Show Chairs and Auxiliary President at Neiman Marcus Downtown. Auxiliary members Jennifer Lancashire and Kerry McStay will chair the seated luncheon at The Zodiac on Tuesday, February 25. Jennifer and her husband, David Lancashire are also hosting the Patron Party at their Preston Hollow home on Wednesday, April 30.
* Photo credit: Tamytha Cameron Photography