Haute with Heart Fashion Show at Hilton Bayfront

St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center (SMSC) hosted its 46th Annual Haute with Heart Fashion Show on Aug. 17 at the Hilton Bayfront in Downtown San Diego. SMSC, a nonprofit organization, serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The event kicked off with lively boutique shopping, followed by a luncheon where guests were greeted by a performance from the Twisted Orbit Showgirls.

The theme for the event was “Couture,” inspired by a piece of artwork depicting the Eiffel Tower created by SMSC student Mark Rimland. This Parisian theme set the tone for the entire show. Each guest received a greeting card featuring a copy of Rimland’s artwork to take home as a memento. Rimland’s work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions and is included in the collections of Tom Hanks and Sylvester Stallone.

Sean and Karen Mercadante served as event chairs, while Maureen and Charlie King were the honorary chairs. The invocation was delivered by Sr. Virginia Rodee, RSCJ, and Yelka Gonzalez performed the national anthem. Chief executive officer Debra Emerson welcomed the crowd and expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the event a success. This year, the honoree was John Seiber president of the Kraemer Endowment Foundation.

The masters of ceremonies were Anna Couvrette, who also served as the auctioneer for the live auction, and Teresa Sardina from KUSI News San Diego. They introduced SMSC students who graced the runway, with Amber Bobbitt being this year’s spotlighted student. The fashion show was produced by Kristi Brooks, a celebrity stylist and fashion expert, with technical support from Redfearn and Associates. The clothing featured was provided by Macy’s along with contributions from local designers.

St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, located in El Cajon, offers a comprehensive experience for individuals with disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism, and cerebral palsy. The center offers innovative programs in art, gardening, culinary arts, and aquatics. For more information about this remarkable center, visit stmsc.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Thursday, Sept. 5 – The Fire Within fashion show featuring 11 Native American designers at the Heritage Ballroom at Sycuan Casino and Resort. This is a 21-plus event. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. For tickets: sycuanfashionshow.com.

Sunday, Sept. 8 – Fall in LOVE with Fashion, “Project Runway” designer Gordana Gehlhausen from 4-8 p.m. at 2919 Hill Valley Drive in Escondido. Benefits the Berry Good Food Foundation. Tickets at: https://bit.ly/4ffIO4D.

Thursday, Sept. 12 – The Art of Fashion in partnership with South Coast Plaza at the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Tickets are at: thecountryfriends.org.

Sunday, Sept. 21 – 20th annual Strut for Sobriety! fashion show and recovery awareness event for new PATH at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina. Tickets at: 619-670-1184.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the San Diego area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher, and blogger at DianaCavagnaro.com.

PHOTOS BY DIANA CAVAGNARO