PARTY WATCH

Tootsies fashion show serves up designer looks at River Oaks tennis tournament

Houston lavished its springtime beauty and perfect weather on the crowds gathered for the 40th annual Tootsies Fashion Show and Luncheon at the Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship Tournament. Champagne flowed as attendees in oversized sunglasses, floral frocks, and the occasional blossom-covered hat enjoyed two days of fashionable festivities at River Oaks Country Club.

The alfresco luncheon was overseen by tournament director Bronwyn Greer, chair Shelli Lindley, and the Tootsies team headed by owners Norman and Donna Lewis, with the boutique's creative director Fady Armanious, who was wearing a custom suit by Houston designer Bach Mai.

Tootsies Fashion Show 2024 Jenna Lindley, Tootsies creative director Fady Armanious, and Shelli Lindley.Photo by Daniel Ortiz

Rococo, this year's event theme, was present in every aspect of the fête, from the linens and live music to the over-the-top decor. After all, Rococo celebrates the exceptional ornamental and dramatic style that originated in the 18th century. Given the location, crowd, and designer looks present at the event, the motif was aptly chosen.

Fashion show producer Lenny Matuszewski, senior stylist Tamara Bonas, and Fady Armanious presented a lovely runway show featuring 81 looks from well-known names, including Oscar de la Renta, Elie Saab, Carolina Herrera, Naeem Kahn, Pat Bo, Zimmerman, Hunter Bell, Valentino, and Dolce & Gabbana. Set to live music, models made their way between the tables, giving guests an up-close look at the luxury designer fashions.

Tootsies Fashion Show 2024 Amy Stanton, Stephanie Fleck and Melissa Juneau.Photo by Daniel Ortiz

After the show, attendees had the opportunity to snag the styles featured in the show at Tootsies Shop the Runway Boutique. Many also watched the on-court skills of famed tennis players, including Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, and Max Purcell.

Notable attendees included: Jenna Lindley, Brooke Lee, DeeDee Marsh, Hillary Holmes Archer, Jennifer Allison, Jordan Seff, Marcia Backus, Stacey Lindseth, Susan Vick, Susie McGee, Whitney Lawson, Amanda Boffone, Claire Day, Elia Gabbanelli, Kat Pressly, Kathy De La Mora, Lisa Paulk, Melissa Juneau, Melissa Sugulas, Monica De Hoz Vila, Sarah Morgan, Vanessa Ames, Dana Barton, Beth Zdeblick, Cindy Bendy, Amy Stanton, and Mignon Gill.

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

Gillian Sarofim and Meredith Flores Barker.

Pink Warriors

Research and resilience shine at Komen’s annual Houston luncheon

Susan G. Komen Tickled Pink luncheon 2025

Photo by Jacob Power

Allison Honer, Alison Lock, Ashley Cairns, Varshini Mohan, and Laura Leonard.

It was an afternoon of purpose and pink as Susan G. Komen hosted its Fourth Annual More Than Pink Luncheon at the Four Seasons Hotel Houston on March 20. With 100-plus supporters gathered downtown, the event brought together breast cancer advocates, survivors, and scientists over lunch, cocktails, and a lively silent auction in pursuit of breast health equity for all.

This year’s honoree, Anne Meyn, was celebrated for her commitment to Komen’s mission and her work across the organization’s advocacy and research. A Komen Scholar and survivor herself, Meyn received recognition for mentoring the next generation of advocates and investigators.

Adding gravitas to the gathering was keynote speaker Dr. Abenaa Brewster, also a Komen Scholar and professor at MD Anderson Cancer Center, who moved the room with insight into how research and community investment are saving lives and shifting disparities.

With a committee powered by Jane Marmion, Dorothy Paterson, Kelly Hunt, Nadine Eidman, Elda Garcia-Ditta, and Cindy and Roger Masek, the event raised more than $30,000 for the cause. People in the pink mix included Fran and Frances Ditta, Jessica Epps, Rosette Nije, Kari Wallace, Allison Horner, and Stephen Marmion.

Photo by Jacob Power

Allison Honer, Alison Lock, Ashley Cairns, Varshini Mohan, and Laura Leonard.