Fun Crowd Gathers at Neiman Marcus To Kick Off Fall’s Chic Italy Event

Michelle Watson/CatchLight Group
Fun Crowd Gathers at Neiman Marcus To Kick Off Fall’s Chic Italy Event

Zinat Ahmed, Amy Bruegging and Bethany Buchanan

KICKOFF EVENTS ARE underway for some of fall's more anticipated social affairs — like the Italian Cultural & Community Center's (ICCC) second annual Fashion Show and Luncheon set for October 12. The prelude took place at Neiman Marcus.


"Italian-inspired products and brands filled the entire second floor of Neiman Marcus for the themed cocktail reception," explained a rep for organizers of the event. "Highlights included Prosecco, Aperol Spritz, and light bites by Neiman Marcus; models showcasing Italian designs, such as Dolce & Gabbana and Brunello Cucinelli; chocolate samples from legendary chocolatiers Baratti & Milano; Giorgio Armani Beauty make-up touch-ups and gifts for each guest; fine jewelry trunk show with visiting designer Gretchen Ventura; and violin and cello performances by Divisi Strings."

Guests included Donae Chromosta, Cynthia Craft, Leisa Holland-Nelson, Roz Pactor, Edward Sanchez, Jeanne Ruberti, Debra Laws, Harriet Gertner, Mary Milloy, Bethany Buchanan, Tara Martin, Christina Milligan, Zinat Ahmed, Amy Bruegging, Lori Freese, Tobin Hellums, and Neiman Marcus honcho Chris Hendel.

Funds raised from the annual Fashion Show and Luncheon will 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.

ICCC La Dolce Vita Event Chairs Patti Imbrogno Murphy and Cheryl Arolfo Byington

Italian Cultural & Community Center representatives Brissa Ramos, Executive Director Erika Myers, Alessandra Pistone and Ray Miller

Monta Que and Coach Maston

Lety de Leon and Mauricio Cruz

Tara Martin, Lauren Abbott and Heather Almond

Roz Pactor and Leisa Holland-Nelson

Debra Laws and Harriet Gertner

A model having a ball — or a lemon!

Lori Freese, Patricia Cooper, Tobin Hellums, Kate Gabriele and Marguerite Gabriele

Parties
Timeless Appeal at The Village: Sophisticated Retirement Living

THE STANDARD BEARER FOR LUXURY

We built The Village communities to exemplify sophisticated retirement living in Houston, surrounded by the heritage neighborhood of River Oaks, Tanglewood and Southampton. Each offers impeccable designer finishes and Aspenwood service detail with dining and resortstyle amenities making them premier locations for discerning Houstonians and their families. Impressive, spacious residential floor plans, generous natural light, and expansive terraces allow a new level of indoor-outdoor living. Beautiful spaces are designed for entertaining, fitness, and relaxation with a dedicated team to provide a secure lock and leave lifestyle for our members.

Keep Reading Show less

Palmaïa The House of AïA

THIS SUMMER, LEBRINA Jackson, owner of Escape Spa in Cypress, is taking her wisdom and joie de wellness to the jungle. Far beyond the walls of her beautiful spa, she’s aiming to create a quiet space for people to work on their personal growth in a community-centric atmosphere. She shares what participants will get out of the trip and why it’s important to take time for self-care in 2025.

Why is it important for people to “retreat”? Life can feel like a non-stop marathon, and sometimes we forget to just... breathe. Retreating offers a chance to step off the treadmill for a bit and hit the reset button. It's about giving your body and mind some much-needed TLC, allowing for genuine relaxation and rejuvenation. Beyond the personal perks, retreats often create a cool sense of community, connecting you with others on a similar path. By carving out space for self-reflection, you can recharge and return to your daily life with a clearer head and a bit more pep in your step.

Keep Reading Show less
Wellness+Giving Back

Brian Crawmer, Sarah Crawmer, Marilyn, and David Guion

VITA LIVING WELCOMED over 300 guests to its annual Pearls of Wisdom Fiesta at the River Oaks Country Club. This year’s dinner — themed Una Notte Italianaraised more than $207,000 in support of lifelong care for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties