LCAHouston’s Most Stylish: Elia Gabbanelli

The 19th Annual Latin Women’s Initiative Fashion Show and Luncheon attracted a vibrant crowd of more than 800 guests at the Hilton Americas on August 2021, it broke all records by raising over $400,000 to support organizations like Small Steps Nurturing Center, Memorial Assistance Ministries and the University of Houston Center for Mexican American studies.

All applause to chairs Elia Gabbanelli and Vicki Luna, honorary chair Gloria Luna Bounds, and LWI president Maritza Gonzales who were led through the program by emcee Maria Salazar with Fox26.

With the generous support and hard work of this team it was a spectacular afternoon featuring a fashion show presented by Tootsies with Colombian designer Silvia Tcherassi, regarded as one of the most creative and innovative personalities in the industry. While it was an exquisite display of multicultural fashion and beauties, one lady turned many heads for her one of a kind style and aura: Elia Gabbanelli looked stunning at this luncheon in her custom made Silvia Tcherassi dress.

LCAHouston International Society News Magazine Editor, Ruchi Mukherjee snagged a tête-à-tête with this mom and businesswoman to know all about her style and closet necessities.

Elia Gabbanelli looked stunning at this luncheon in her custom made Silvia Tcherassi dress

RM: How did it feel to wear Silvia’s custom made design?

EG: I was over the moon. Never in my wildest dreams was co-chairing a fashion-show luncheon on my radar, let alone have the featured designer, Silvia Tcherassi custom make a dress to compliment her show.

RM: What’s your go to style?

EG: Honestly, functional for every day. I like a fashion moment now and then but it must be appropriate for the occasion. Whenever in doubt I like to opt for a classic look.

RM: Handbags or shoes?

EG: Both! Why choose?

RM: Your most stylish moment?

EG: Hands down wearing my one-of-a-kind piece from the Silvia Tcherassi Atelier to the Latin Women’s Initiative Fashion Show Luncheon. The dress has beautiful movement when you walk and the jacquard is stunning. Silvia selected a beautiful Italian silk jacquard in emerald green as she thought it would suit me. I gave her creative freedom with my dress. Paired with a glam from Rubens Franz it was perfect. His vision for hair and make-up was mother earth. I think he nailed it.

RM: If you had to pick 5 favorite things from your closet. What would they be?

EG: Oh Boy! That’s always tough, but I will try and here you go…

Definitely my one-of-a-kind Silvia Tcherassi Dress
Custom Himalayan Lady Dior I got to design
My personalized Miss Sicily Bags from Dolce Gabbana – they are a work of art
The Elia Bag from Jose Sanchez
My very first Chanel Jacket – it is sentimental to me
(I love pieces that are unique and special)

RM: What do you cherish the most about being a mom? And how do you balance your business and motherhood?

EG: With my business I have had some pretty spectacular experiences working in the music industry but the most meaningful and most important title I have is being a mom. My son is my most important legacy to me. As a working mother I used to regret having to miss moments at school or extra-curricular activities. As my son got older I realized that I was serving as an example as he overheard my business conversations, or when I would bring him along to work projects. He has been watching me run a business and manage a home. Without knowing it I have been teaching him life lessons.

RM: While I wrap up our conversation, I couldn’t help but notice your earrings which actually have your name designed. Who are they by?

EG: Mercedes Salazar – another Colombian designer who makes statement earrings in limited edition capsules. I have two pairs with my name and yes these are one of my favorites accessories.

Photos by Daniel Ortiz