So Happy at Holts

This year, there was the Holt Renfrew Fashion Gala to benefit Arts Umbrella. Dubbed “Vancouver’s most anticipated fashion event” by the organization, a non-profit arts education centre for youth under 20, the event returned from a one-year hiatus with bells and whistles—think: sneak preview performances of Corteo by Cirque du Soleil, a fashion show featuring Diane von Furstenberg’s Fall 2008 collection, and, of course, plenty of wine to go around. Oh, and an appearance by Miss DVF herself, too.

I spotted model Petra Nemcova working the flashbulbs with Arts Umbrella committee member Frank Anderson as Steven Seagal strutted into the room, working his way through throngs of Vancouver socialites, many of whom were dressed in their Dolce & Gabbana, Pucci, and Diane von Furstenberg finest. (A Holt Renfrew sales associate friend had informed me a few days earlier that a list had kept track of who was wearing which dress, and that extra DVF stock had been ordered to meet demand.) Some hoarded around the silent auction items, which included a dinner for eight with notable chef David Hawksworth, a Michael Kors collection handbag, hockey sticks autographed by Canucks legend Trevor Linden and goalie Roberto Luongo, and a deluxe Crème de la Mer gift basket, while others purchased Links of London bracelets featuring custom-designed Arts Umbrella charms.

But the true highlight of the evening? Without a doubt, Diane von Furstenberg herself, as she rode down the escalator in all her tanned, radiant glory and a stunning, silver flapper dress. And with that, we can only wait to see what Holt Renfrew brings us next year.

Shown: Caryn Lerner, president of Holt Renfrew and Diana Von Furstenberg at the 2008 Holt Renfrew Gala benefitting Arts Umbrella.

Photography by George Pimentel.

See more photos from this event