By: Mythili Reddibathini
Held in the JFK Trade Mart at the Dallas Market Center, Alpha Chi Omega held their annual charity fashion show, Alpha Chi Couture, on Friday, February 28. A night filled with community, fashion, and fun, the event was held to fundraise in support of Alpha Chi’s longtime philanthropic cause; ending domestic violence. For this year’s show, Alpha Chi collaborated with longtime philanthropic partner The Genesis Women’s Shelter.
As I walked into the event, I was immediately greeted with smiles and warm conversation. Alumni, friends, family, and active members perused hundreds of items in a silent auction. It was obvious how much of a community effort was put into the show. From a pickleball voucher to a signed Luka Dončić basketball, local businesses and figures showed their support for Alpha Chi’s cause by contributing to the auction.
Freshman Alpha Chi Omega active Bella Bassmen (right), attended the event with her mom, Allison (middle), and sister, Emma (left). To her, Alpha Chi Couture is an “amazing bonding moment for our sisters and a chance to show off something Alpha Chi loves.”
After two hours of silent auctions, the doors opened to the runway. Excited parents, alumni, and actives took their seats in anticipation of a show featuring brands like Kendra Scott and The NKC Store. As the lights dimmed, and the show began, the models, SMU students representing organizations all over campus, strutted down the runway in intricate, modern designs that can take their wearers from day to night. The dresses, matching sets, and even casual looks appealed to both a collegiate and mature audience.
Highlights of the show included jewelry from Nina Berenato, unique hats, and accessories from AB.LINO x MOVIDA, and staple pieces from y&i. To me, the most impactful part of the event was by far Trina Turk’s segment of the runway show. Board members from the Genesis Women’s Shelter walked the runway in colorful designs and represented all the different reasons why they “couture.” It was incredibly inspiring to watch women from so many walks of life come together to support a cause that can affect so many people.
Alpha Chi Couture brought together so many to uplift women and families in need. Thoughtful planning and flawless execution highlighted the cause most important to Alpha Chi Omega. This year’s host, Stacey Farrell, president of the Dallas Area AXO Alumnae Chapter, said it best: “Collegiate women have partnered with alumni who have spent their lives dedicated to the Alpha Chi Omega cause. The sorority experience has never been more relevant.” A true team effort, Alpha Chi Couture was able to highlight and celebrate real, strong women from all over Dallas and beyond.
**Responses have been edited for length and clarity
