London Calling at the 47th annual Haute with Heart Fashion Show

SAN DIEGO – St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center presented the 47th annual Haute with Heart Fashion Show & Luncheon on Aug. 2 at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront.

This year’s theme, “London Calling,” celebrated British fashion and culture. The afternoon began with a champagne reception, live music and boutique shopping, all of which were available for guests to enjoy. Robbin “Kulek” Lockie and John Lockie served as host chairs while Ginger Poutous was the honorary chair.

Guests then moved into the ballroom for the luncheon. Anna Couvrette emceed the event. The auctioneer was Audra Stafford from NBC 7 News San Diego. Sr. Virginia Rodee, RSCJ, delivered the invocation and Mariela Contreras performed the national anthem. Debra Emerson, chief executive officer of St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center (SMSC), gave acknowledgment and thanks.

Beverley Ireland was honored for her beautiful floral arrangements, which she has generously donated to the events for the last 25 years. This year, she created elegant centerpieces with red roses perfectly opened on each table. The lunch menu reflected the British theme with a classic Beef Wellington entree. The featured artist was Anthony Wardlow, whose drawing of Big Ben appeared on the invitation and promotional materials. Each guest received a card featuring his artwork.

This year’s SMSC Student Spotlight was Shauna Davis, student representative for 2025. The theatrical fashion show kicked off with SMSC students modeling on the runway, followed by a high-energy show produced by Kristi Brooks. Brooks, who previously worked with celebrities in Los Angeles, now brings her creative talent to San Diego. The clothing for the show was provided by Macy’s and other local businesses such as Satori and Lena Trotsko.

St. Madeleine Sophie empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. All proceeds from the event support the center’s programs, including job training, art programs, a Special Olympics team, gardening, cooking and computer labs. For more information, visit https://stmsc.org/.

Upcoming events

• Sept. 6 – Strut for Sobriety! at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina. Boutique shopping, luncheon, and theatrical fashion show presented by Gretchen Productions. For info: https://www.anewpath.org/.

• Sept. 11 – The Art of Fashion Runway and Luncheon at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Fashions are from South Coast Plaza.  For tickets, visit thecountryfriends.org or call 858-756-1192

• Sept. 11 – 4th Annual Sycuan Fashion Show at 6 p.m. The 21-plus event at Sycuan Casino • and Resort features Native American talent. For tickets: http://bit.ly/4osgVuo.

• Sept. 19 – Exxotica Art and Fashion Show presented by Frances Taylor. The 21-plus event will be at the Granger Hotel Gaslamp Quarter from 7-10 p.m. Burlesque performance by Ruby Diamond. For tickets: http://bit.ly/45ET6bn.

• Sept. 27 – Fourth annual Sparkles Foundation Children’s Benefit Fashion Show at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines beginning at 10:30 a.m. Guest speaker: San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan. For tickets, visit sdsparklesfoundation.org/events/.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the Southern California area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher and podcaster at dianacavagnaro.com.