Locals Walk the Fashion Runway for a Good Cause

Models Don Second Chance Clothes for 10th Annual Fashion Fling

Sunflowers are seen as symbols of happiness and positivity, and on Saturday, August 3, for Hospice Brazos Valley’s 10th Annual Fashion Fling, they stood for something even more meaningful – strength and beauty in difficult times.

“Hospice Brazos Valley has served the Round Top community and the surrounding 17 counties since 1989. There are so many amazing non-profits in this area striving to do more, but Hospice Brazos Valley is the only non-profit hospice,” said Vice President/COO Amanda Burnett, in her opening statement.

“Our hospice relies on fundraising to fill the funding gaps so we can provide compassion and comfort. Each year we provide tens of thousands of dollars in uncompensated care to those who are uninsured or underinsured. The support you provide by attending today’s event allows Hospice Brazos Valley to continue to make a huge impact on many lives.”

The Fashion Fling was started by a group of women who named themselves the United Women of Hospice. They planned and hosted the 1st Fashion Fling Luncheon to benefit Hospice Brazos Valley. In 2014 Hospice Brazos Valley began to co-host. It includes a lunch served by the men who are spouses and friends of the United Women of Hospice, a silent auction, and a Style Show.

Sunflowers may have been the main decor of the event but each table and group bought their own flair. Seen throughout the event were Frida Kahlo lookalikes, Flappers, a French baker, and beautifully detailed themed tables to match.

And of course not to be outdone by the table decor or the attendees themselves but the Style Show was a shopping and fashionable success from clothing bought from Second Chance. Some models decided to go for a more modern look while others went for more of a persona, from a doctor to a fisherwoman, and a look even inspired by Weezer from Steel Magnolias.

Model Carla Hartley was feeling more nostalgic when she chose an outfit that was reminiscent of dresses her grandmother used to make for her and her cousin. “My dress and accessories bring back wonderful childhood memories,” said Hartley, whose outfit cost $13.50.

Another model who decided to model again was Rebecca Stewart, “I was asked to model by my friend from church, Marti Good who is on the planning committee. I knew I wanted to wear something like what I would normally wear. Last year I did a Western theme so I wanted to keep it simpler this year,” said Stewart. “I wanted to model because I knew it would be fun and it is for such a good cause. I have so much respect for Hospice Brazos Valley. They do such good work and are the most kind-hearted people.”

And a Style Show wouldn’t be complete without a grand finale look so here comes the bride. Reilynn Hall stepped out in a beautiful white strapless A-line satin gown from David’s Bridal for $50 along with a white tulle veil for $20.

Burnett was also able to share an impactful sentiment on what Hospice Brazos Valley really means, “People never really forget their hospice experience. Anyone important to our patients is important to us I would like to share a note from a hospice patient’s family following the transition of their loved one: ‘We are distraught, yet we rejoice. We are heartbroken, yet we love. We are sad, yet we are happy. We cry one moment, yet laugh the next. This is a part of life we never want others to understand. However, for those families that need the support, Hospice is a light in the midst of bleakness.’” Like the sunflower’s ability to turn towards the sun, we must remember on our own life’s path to seek out the light, embrace joy, and stand tall in the face of adversity.