With more than 200 fashionistas culling their closets for gently worn, perhaps even never worn, ensembles and accessories, the Salvation Army Auxiliary's Reflections on Style luncheon was guaranteed to be a success even before the doors opened. And, yes, it was to the tune of $520,556, combining luncheon proceeds and clothing sales.
Bargain hunters — most of whom live in the ritzy zip code areas of River Oaks, Tanglewood and Memorial — scooped up the Armani pantsuits, the Chanel jackets and the Saint Laurent sweaters with the enthusiasm of a Filene's basement crowd. But these were no left-over labels and the ladies were far from the typical resale customer.
In fact a bidding war broke out over the silent auction Chanel tote that ended up selling for a handsome $3,250.
Probably the best buy of all was the $12,000 Ralph Lauren coat (never worn) that sold for $1,600.
Kudos to luncheon chair Judi McGee, Chic Boutique chair Deborah Dunkum and Chic Boutique co-chairs Tena Lundquist Faust and Joella Mach for filling the River Oaks Country Club dining room with a department store's worth of enticing fashion buys. Probably the best buy of all was the $12,000 Ralph Lauren coat (never worn) that sold for $1,600.
The early shopping was just part of the magic of the day which included a runway presentation of the top designer fashions donated and a salute to honorees Sydney Faust and Cora Sue Mach. The "dynamic duo," as they are known, recounted in charming and witty fashion their 14-year friendship — a treat for the 500-plus guests.
The auxiliary team helping make the day a success included Linda McReynolds, Vicki West, Susan Hansen, Lucy Lewis, Tara Conley, Ginger Blanton, Nancy Willerson, Jeanne Ruberti, Lilly Andress, Harriet Hart Wallace and auxiliary chair Mary Maxey. Each year, loads of praise is heaped on Lenny Matuszewski for his skill at putting together the fashion show.
The shopping continues at the Chic Boutique After Sale located at 6010C Washington Avenue at Westcott Thursday, Friday and Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. Prices are lowered each day.
The luncheon group included the honorees' proud husbands Don Faust and Harry Mach, Pat Breen, Jeanie Kilroy, Rose Cullen, Penny Loyd, Ann Bookout, Diane Lokey Farb, Janice McNair, Mary Ann and David McKeithan and Laura McWilliams.
Linda McReynolds, left, and Ginger Blanton at the Salvation Army Auxiliary luncheon.
