Art Of Fashion 2015

The Country Friends will honor the late Sally B. Thornton, longtime supporter of the Art of Fashion, at the annual luncheon and runway show set to take place September 17 in partnership with South Coast Plaza at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. This year’s event, emceed by Sandra Maas, begins with Avant Affaire, a Champagne-and-sweets tasting with a “pink carpet” photo lounge. The runway show follows, featuring the fall/winter collections of South Coast Plaza designers and retailers including Barbara Bui, Donna Karan, Ermenegildo Zegna, Fendi, Max Mara, Oscar de la Renta, Saks Fifth Avenue, Versace, and more. After the show, guests will enjoy luncheon on the lawn with a special menu created by executive chef Brian Black. The Art of Fashion concludes with Après Affaire, offering wine samplings and sweets.

Throughout the day, the boutiques of South Coast Plaza will offer the latest trends in clothing, handbags, jewelry, eyewear, and other accessories. Participating retailers include Barbara Bui, Diptyque, Donna Karan, Fendi, Lanvin, Max Mara, Ralph Lauren, TOD’s, and Versace. This year’s event will raise funds for more than 30 San Diego County charities, including Angel’s Depot, Armed Services YMCA, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Burn Institute, Canine Companions, Hospice of The North Coast, Mama’s Kitchen, Pro Kids The First Tee of San Diego, Promises2Kids, Ronald McDonald House Charities, San Diego Brain Injury Foundation, and many more. Featured here is a preview of designs set to dazzle on the runway, photographed on location at the historic Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club. (858.756.1192, ext. 4, events@thecountryfriends.org, www.thecountryfriends.org)