[vimeo]http://www.vimeo.com/8842597[/vimeo]
The Mayflower Hotel served as a classic backdrop of elegance for this fusion of art and fashion. Seven local D.C. artists, Lolly Amons, Roxanne Christie, Maggie O’Neill, Don Patron, Rodger Schultz, Matt Sesow and Karen Suderman, showcased their work during a pre-show cocktail reception. Maggie O’Neill was in attendance and was a hit in her off-the-rack cocktail dress that she painted herself. All seven generously donated their art for a silent auction, from which 100% of the proceeds went to charity.
The emcee for the evening, Kathleen Matthews, was a former news anchor in D.C., and currently works the Executive Vice President of Global Communications and Public Affairs for Marriott International. “It’s ingenious to combine modern art and fashion with the iconic location of the Mayflower,” Matthews said. “When you add up art, fashion and philanthropy, the sum is better than the parts.
” Matthews opened up the event, introducing Christine Park, an auto designer for Cadillac, one of the evening’s sponsors. As well, Grace Hong, from the Children’s National Medical Center, was on hand to give thanks to the event planners and attendees for supporting the Center.
Joi-Marie McKenzie and Joff Masakawa (Photo by Anchyi Wei)
The evening culminated with Texas-born fashion designer Lela Rose showcasing her Spring 2010 collection. Mary Amons, who is also currently participating in filming Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of D.C.” and the mother of five children, had the opportunity to introduce the show, but did not forget to give thanks to her family while on the runway in a stunning hot pink Lela Rose cocktail dress. Rose’s wearable silhouettes floated breezily down the runway, in a sea of effortless shapes and green and blue chiffons and linens.
The models, styled by star of TLC’s “What Not To Wear” Ted Gibson, were decidedly stunning with minimal makeup and clean hair, swept off their faces into teased ponytails. Both Lela Rose and Ted Gibson appeared at the end of the show to a standing ovation. The event was produced by The Aba Agency with the steady hands Aba Kwawu and Stephanie Holland running the show.
The party didn’t end there, as champagne flowed and partygoers continued to admire the art after the conclusion of the fashion show. As well, attendees were welcomed to an after party at new local hotspot Recess Lounge. With the runaway success of Modus Union, D.C.’s fashion events continue to evolve as quickly as its fashion community.
Model wearing Lela Rose. (Photo by Anchyi Wei)
Model wearing Lela Rose. (Photo by Anchyi Wei)
Model wearing Lela Rose. (Photo by Anchyi Wei)
Model wearing Lela Rose. (Photo by Anchyi Wei)
Model wearing Lela Rose. (Photo by Anchyi Wei)
Model wearing Lela Rose. (Photo by Anchyi Wei)
Erika Hughes and Judy Christie. (Photo by Anchyi Wei)
All art work was donated by local artists. Proceeds went to Labels for Love. Model wearing Lela Rose. (Photo by Anchyi Wei)
