PREMIERE EVENTS
SIZZLE, HOT, SPARKS,… the description for the Dress For Success annual fashion show “Fashion to the Rescue.” The 2003 event was held May 22nd at the historic Paramount Theatre in Denver.
The evening began with a VIP party hosted by Sevilla. Nearly 80 people enjoyed great Spanish tapas and champagne. Fashion was in evidence right from the start as guests arrived dressed to the nines in outfits that went from sublime to the avant-garde. The lobby of the Paramount was packed to capacity during the reception. Guests were treated to Rock Bottom Brewery selections and wine along with an eclectic selection of appetizers provided by Denver restaurants, Decisions, Sambuca and Chocolate Fountains. The evening was a tribute to the talent of Denver fashion designers. Accessory designers were given the opportunity to display their wares in the lobby during the reception. Attendees milled around the tables, talking to the designers and commenting on the uniqueness of their products. Prissy Purses fused fun with fashion while Teddy Silva’s double-sided vintage cigar box purses use tassels as part of his signature theme. Emily Wahler’s handbags are large enough to hold everything a woman needs and are striking in their funky and individual design. The jewelry designers captured the attention of many attendees. Dodi Frye showed off her one-of-a-kind pieces, which include the use of semi-precious stones, Raku beads, Swarowski crystals and Bali silver. Jamie Gallegos confirmed that jewelry withstands the hands of time with a collection of investment jewelry. Lynn Noonan with Zoopaloopa displayed stunning hand-made fun jewelry featuring a combination of pearls, turquoise, crystal and funky lamp glass. The fashion show kicked off with a welcome by a Rocky Mountains News columnist and KNRC host of “Style Matters," Evelinda Urman. Comedian, Brian Kellen with Aspire Models and Talent, opened the evening with a hysterical monologue, setting the tempo for the rest of the evening. The door prizes included a travel package from Frontier Airlines and Visevant Limousine Services, a DirecTV System package and the prize most woman wanted, the $2,500 sterling silver pendant, earrings and bracelet from John Atencio’s Pacifica collection. Showing that Denver is well-represented in fashion were designers, Brooks, with a collection of special occasion dressing and designs for women with individual needs, Doug Paris featuring his Paris Collection, which ranged from avant-garde business suits to elegant cocktail dresses and Kathy Ilian with a celebration of color in silk. The fashion show continued with Carol Mier showing a selection of wearable art, Jerry Whitehead with a selection of Career Chic, fashions and accessories transforming from office wear to evening wear, Your Best Friend’s Closet, featured new, resale, vintage, European and local designer pieces and Rochelle Jay specializing in embellishment on fine fabrics. There was more to come with Nadyia Nelson and her spring color blend, Naomi Macstras showing the urban funky functional wear, Renee Atkinson featuring Punk Rock, Michelle Baum with her selection of uniquely one of a kind and Gabriel Conroy featuring a line of Couture style. Mr. B’s Ballroom Dance Academy and Kim Robards Dance provided beautifully performed dance selections during the intermissions. The party continued well into the evening with an after-hours party at Sevilla’s. The Fabulous Boogienauts offered their special brand of music for listening and dancing. Dress For Success Denver is a not-for-profit organization that provides interview-appropriate clothing and professional development assistance to low-income women seeking employment. They are part of a worldwide network, with affiliates in over 70 cities in four countries. DFSD depends on the support of individuals, foundations and corporations for funding of their services that help over 2,000 women a year.
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