Proceeds will light the paths of aspiring local musicians through
DSO’s outreach and educational programs.

Guests stepped into the world of fashion and philanthropy with the 10th Annual Fashion Notes Designer Award Luncheon and Style Show, hosted by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL) at the majestic Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center on October 12.

The event was a scene of style and community spirit. The morning kicked off with a Champagne reception, a silent auction, and an exciting raffle. But that was just the beginning. The real crescendo awaited the attendees as they indulged in a fashion presentation and a luncheon live auction.

Jada Mowles and Laura Price, the dynamic duo of luncheon chairs, curated a memorable fashion experience for all.

Karen Cox and her daughter, Isabella Cox, were the Honorary Chairs of the event. They have long been devoted supporters of the Dallas Symphony. Karen is a former Fashion Notes Chair and served as Presentation Ball Chair earlier this year. Isabella was a DSOL Debutante in 2020 and now a member of the DSOL Assembly.

Musical magic was woven into the day's tapestry by the DSO Concert Truck, a traveling stage in an 18-ft box truck featuring pianists, and the melodious strains of Young Strings musician Jacqui Torres playing her cello. She later graced the runway as a model and shared her experiences with the Young Strings program, a beneficiary of the event's proceeds. Young violinist Alan Milan was tapped to accompany the models during their runway presentation.

DSOL President Nancy Labadie emphasized the event's significance and impact.

“We are fortunate to have Jacqui Torres with us. We wanted you to have a firsthand experience with where your support lands after you leave here today,” said Labadie “What we are involved in changes lives and betters our community.”

The runway came alive when symphony patron families modeled fashions from LoveShackFancy and Dondolo, along with the dazzling accessories by Milliard Diamond Concierge and chic boots by Petite Paloma. Meredith Land, the popluar NBC 5 news anchor, served as Emcee.

The fashion show was a joy to behold, thanks to the artistry of Robyn Chauvin Productions. It was not a surprise that the children were the stars of the show. Many wore matching mother and daughter dresses. Ellie and Lucy Price, daughters of event chair Laura Price, have modeled in the show for the two preceding years. With confidence, they walked the runway, stopped at the end to turn back to back, and gave their biggest smiles while melting the hearts of the audience.

The highlight of the day was when Catalina Gonzalez, the founder of Dondolo, received the prestigious Fashion Notes Designer Award. Dondolo is not just a brand; it's a movement, creating beautiful, heirloom-quality clothing that empowers local women and mothers in Colombia, helping them provide for their families. Dondolo's commitment to supporting women and children in Dallas is truly heartwarming.

The DSOL collaborated with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to fulfill the fashion wish of two critically ill children who not only modeled in the show but will also get a chance to visit with Catalina Gonzalez and explore her design studio in weeks to come.

The luncheon was attended by a vibrant and influential crowd including Kate Boatright, Sharon Lee Clark, Kameron Westcott, Samantha Wortley, Olivia Barder, Mandy Coulter, Kristin Cordiak, Bronwyn Cordiak, Kim Noltemy, Therese Rourk, Donna Arp Weitzman, and Marena Gault.

The event was made possible with the generous support of sponsors including Social Bird (Cotes de Provence Rosé), the official wine sponsor, and PaperCity, the exclusive digital and print luxury lifestyle media sponsor.

But beyond the glamour and fashion, this event played a significant role in advancing the DSOL's mission of spreading the love of music and arts education to countless young people in the Dallas community. The funds raised will light the paths of aspiring local musicians through outreach and educational programs offered by the DSO.

In a world where fashion meets heart, the 10th Annual Fashion Notes Designer Award Luncheon and Style Show hit all the right notes, harmonizing style with a beautiful melody of philanthropy.

Photos by Domus Aurea Portraits