On Tuesday, August 17, Neiman Marcus hosted a fun-filled, Italian-themed summer soirée to celebrate the Italian Cultural & Community Center’s 2nd Annual Fashion Show and Luncheon, “La Dolce Vita”, set to take place at River Oaks Country Club on October 12, 2021. As a special treat, the ICCC and the Houston Italian Community will pay tribute to one of its own, renowned Fashion Designer, Victor Costa. The Houston native will be the featured guest and include a special archival presentation of many of the designers favorites from a collection gathered city-wide and being worn by many of Costa’s and Houston’s special ladies.
Guests sipped Prosecco and Aperol Spritz with light bites provided by Neiman Marcus while models showcased Italian looks from Dolce & Gabbana, Etro, Giorgio Armani, and Brunello Cucinelli throughout the cocktail reception. Legendary Italian Chocolatiers, Baratti & Milano, offered decadent chocolate samples while Giorgio Armani Beauty provided make-up touch ups for guests as well as gifts for all attendees. Neiman Marcus filled the entire second floor with Italian-inspired products and brands while Divisi Strings enticed guests with beautiful violin and cello performances.
Event Chairs Cheryl Arolfo Byington and Patti Imbrogno Murphy were joined by ICCC Houston Executive Director Erika Myers in sharing details of the October 12 event as well as incredible auction and raffle items from Ferrari of Houston, Valobra Master Jewelers, and Neiman Marcus. Funds raised from the annual Fashion Show and Luncheon go towards a scholarship program for students currently enrolled at a college or university in the greater Houston area and are participating in a study abroad program in Italy.
VIPs who joined the Italian Cultural & Community Center for the summer soirée kick-off at Neiman Marcus included: NM’s Heather Almond, Donae Chromosta, Cynthia Craft, Leisa Holland-Nelson, Beth Wolff, Jeanne Ruberti, Roz Pactor, Gina Gusemano Leck, Debra Laws, Harriet Gertner, Edward Sanchez, Mary Milloy, Tara Martin, Christina Milligan, Bethany Buchanan, Lori Freese, and Tobin Hellums, among others.
Italian Cultural Center Staff: Brissa Ramos, Erika Myers, Alessandra Pistone, Ray Miller
Founded in 1976, the Italian Cultural & Community Center (ICCC Houston) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and advancing Italian culture within Houston. The ICCC offers an array of programs, including language, educational lectures, culinary and wine classes, art exhibits, films, and special events.
Since 2000, the Italian Cultural & Community Center has granted over $240,000 in scholarships to college students. The ICCC is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance.
TICKETS INFO: Tickets for the 2nd Annual Fashion Show & Luncheon range from $250 to $10,000 and are available for online orders using the link here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/la-dolce-vita-fashion-show-luncheon-tickets-138974491445?aff=Mondayeblast
Photography courtesy of Michelle Watson, Catchlight Photography