March Of Dimes Fashion Luncheon Gala

With the growth of female empowerment, support, and unification, ‘feminism’ has become one of the most identifiable words in today’s society. Supporting women through their transitions into motherhood, and helping them understand that they are not alone during any part of it, has been a goal of the Women’s Hospital of Texas 14th annual luncheon benefiting March of Dimes which was held at the Royal Sonesta in Houston.

March of Dimes is a non profit organization with a primary focus on providing resources for mothers and their babies through preventative care and services. Their goal is to help prevent birth defects, premature births, and infant mortality amongst many other personal services. Just this year alone, the NICU Family Support programs were able to aid more than 90,000 families with various needs to provide comfort and hospitalization through all the funding they received.

The luncheon was co-chaired by community volunteer and philanthropist Karina Barbieri, along with the Woman’s Hospital CEO and March Of Dimes board member, Ashley McClellan. Eyewitness ABC13 Morning Anchor, Samica Knight, emcee’d and even shared her own story about her involvement and time spent at the Women’s Hospital during her pregnancy. The pride and joy that she exuded was impressionable, as was her handsome son who joined her on stage along with her husband.

Natalie King of Nat King Couture schooled us on fall fashion trends that ranged from men-style blazers, to floral transitional pieces, as well as all the love for velvets. Houston may not get all the seasons, but we sure make up for it with our fashion forward antics. Fashion show producer Todd Ramos showcased the many designers and brands on the runway from Chloe Dao, LUCHO, Stella & Dot, French Cuff Boutique, and many other notable names that participated in the Boutique Bazaar kicking off the event. There were many places to shop whether you wanted to update your shoe, purse, or closet collections.

Also in attendance were Darcie Wells, Executive Director in Houston for March of Dimes, and Kemah Blair, Senior Development Manager with the addition of some familiar guests including Wondy Weston, Ana Llovera, Maria Cantu-Ondarza, Mandy Kao, Brigitte Kalai, Bethany Buchanan, Elise Hollingsworth, Carlos Barbieri, Rhonda Arnold, and many more!

This was a lovely way to spend a Saturday afternoon, sipping, strolling, shopping, and supporting a great cause that uplifts women and children in the best way possible.

Spotted back in the social scene after a devastating hurricane and making Houston Strong were: Brigitte Kalai, Dr. Sippi Khurana, Mandy Kao, Staci Henderson, Toni Tate, Shawntell McWilliams, Lesley Stephens, Josie Morgan, Bethany Buchanan, and many others.

Photos by Roswitha Vogler