The Art of Fashion was presented by The Country Friends in partnership with South Coast Plaza for the 19th straight year. This annual event was held at the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe and began with a Champagne reception, which served sample tidbits from The French Gourmet. Boutiques were set up with fantastic shopping for the guests.
The fashion show was presented by South Coast Plaza retailers and was held under a huge canopy. The runway came out into the audience and then divided into three sections so everyone could see the amazing fashions up close. The president of The Country Friends, Janean Stripe, greeted the audience. ABC 10News anchor Kimberly Hunt was the mistress of ceremonies for the afternoon. This year, Irina Shkov and Marina Tsvyk were the co-chairs.
The first to come down the runway was Max Mara. One of the standouts was an all-winter white outfit. Next came Moncler with their puffer jackets. Michael Kors Collection revealed tailored suits paired with agate jewelry. He also had a hand-embroidered sequin stretch jersey keyhole dress in Merlot. Oscar de la Renta showed off gorgeous floral print dresses. Monique Lhuillier wowed the crowd with a sheer hot pink Tulle Cape. Lanvin and Saks Fifth Avenue followed the other collections with more breathtaking fashions.
The audience retired to the lawn for the luncheon, which was by Vikram Sood, managing director, and his staff and culinary team. A live auction was held and one of the exceptional items was a one-of-a-kind emerald-cut blue topaz and diamond ear pendants by John Matty Co.
The afternoon finished with a Shop, Sip, and Support, which gave the guests the opportunity to continue shopping. South Coast Plaza is located in Orange County and is an international shopping destination. The Country Friends is a nonprofit that raises funds for designated charities. Its mission is “Helping San Diegans since 1954: One Hand at a Time.” For more information, visit thecountryfriends.org.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Oct. 7 – annual Fur Ball Gala at the San Diego Humane Society. For tickets: https://one.bidpal.net/sdfurball23/ticketing(details:ticketing-summary).
Oct. 7 – Fashion Week San Diego-Fall Runway Shows at the Andaz Hotel San Diego at 6 p.m. For more information, visit fashionweeksd.com/events/.
Oct. 8 – Fashion Week San Diego Fall trunk Event at the Andaz Hotel San Diego. For more information, visit fashionweeksd.com/events/.
Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the San Diego area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher, and blogger at DianaCavagnaro.com.
