Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Grand Gala Ball

It's all about the gown

Pat Breen chose a black-and-white ball gown that was a highlight of the Oscar de la Renta fall 2009 collection. "I really have a lot of black and a lot of white, but not mixed together," she said. "I just fell in love with it."

Bill Olive

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Grand Gala Ball seemed toned down from previous years. But you couldn't tell it from the glamorous attire worn by Houston's Smart Set.

Courtney Lanier Sarofim planned to wear a white gown until her seven-year-old daughter fashion critic said, "I'm tired of seeing you in white." So Sarofim switched to a Valentino gown in the designer's signature red color.

Events-MFAH Ball Oct. 2009-Courtney Lanier Sarofim

Bill Olive

Courtney Lanier Sarofim planned to wear a white gown until her seven-year-old daughter fashion critic said, "I'm tired of seeing you in white." So Sarofim switched to a Valentino gown in the designer's signature red color.

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