Fashion and Philanthropy Were Both Recognized and Appreciated at Houston Symphony League’s ICON Luncheon

Fashion and Philanthropy Were Both Recognized and Appreciated at Houston Symphony League’s ICON Luncheon

“Fashion and Giving Back” were both recognized and appreciated at the Houston Symphony League’s Fifth Annual Conversations with an ICON Luncheon. The almost 200 guests gathered at Houston Country Club with chairpersons Brigitte Kalai and Farida Abjani and Houston Symphony League President Heidi Rockecharlie to celebrate honorees Saks Fifth Avenue, Hallie Vanderhider, Bobby Dees, and Beth Wolff.

This creative afternoon blends a delicious lunch, an on-stage interview and an impressive fashion presentation from Saks Fifth Avenue. Acclaimed journalist Shelby Hodge deftly handled the interview with Heidi Turney, Vice President and General Manager of the world’s largest luxury retailer. When asked about fashion trends, Heidi shared, “Those becoming popular are ‘New Romantics,’ the ‘Eclectic Everyday’ and the ‘Vacationer’ (coordinated outfits when vacationing with significant others or girlfriends).” She also made note of beauty trends, including sustainable and environmentally friendly products, graphic eyeliners, deep, porous eye shadows, the return of the smoky eye, lip glosses and lip oils. Finishing with some interesting facts about the transformation of Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus into what has become Saks Global, Heidi proudly stated that Saks is celebrating its 50th anniversary and the company is commemorating its 100th anniversary.

League President Rockecharlie thanked all those, including Honorary Committee Chair Lesha Elsenbrook (unable to attend), who helped make the $115,000 affair a resounding and delightful success, saying, “Today was a celebration of those who give back. We are deeply grateful for everyone who made this day possible and for all who continue to support our world-class orchestra. Together, we are making music—and a difference.” 

In the Social Scene (not previously mentioned):  Betty Hrncir, Betty Tutor, Cheryl Boblitt, Alicia Smith, Elizabeth Stein, Ann Ayre, Leisa Holland-Nelson Bowman, Ellie Francisco, Jacquie Baly, Carrie Brandsberg-Dahl, Elizabeth DeLuca, Suzan Deison, Mady Kades, Hasina Starks, Diane Gendel, Rini Ziegler, Vicki West, Elsie Eckert, Sidney Faust, Denise Monteleone, Jerre Williams, Marguerite Swartz, Mary Sage, Sandra Smith-Cooper, Debbie Festari, Maria Moncada-Alaoui, Saula Valente, Lynette Davis, Kirk Kveton, Daniel Irion, Raquel Lewis, Helen Shaffer, Elizabeth Stein, Carol Lawler, Nick Rockecharlie