SF Opera Guild And Neiman Marcus Host Marchesa Fashion Show

The Marchesa fashion show

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer Photography

The pink carpet rolled out in grand style for the ultra-luxe Marchesa Fall 2019 fashion show last Thursday. Neiman Marcus was home to the hottest catwalk in town, transforming their third floor into an enchanted garden with just 48-hour notice. The extravagant event was previously scheduled to be hosted at the exquisite home of Mary Poland, San Francisco Opera Guild’s president, yet due to unforeseen weather, Neiman Marcus stepped in to save the day!

Georgina Chapman

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer

At the luncheon, the city’s elite came together in celebration of the guild’s 80th Anniversary. Poland welcomed the enthusiastic yet intimate crowd and a special appearance and speech by the designer herself, Georgina Chapman, had everyone in the room excited.

Mary Poland and Bill Poland

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer

The remarkable attendees—who are moved by the local arts scene—are big supporters of San Francisco Opera who appreciate high-style couture. Notables in attendance included Jane Mudge, Olivia Hsu Decker, Lisa Zabelle, and Elizabeth Birka-White. A delightful meet and greet cocktail reception with Chapman was followed by a scrumptious lunch catered by one of Bay Area’s finest, McCalls.

Event stylist Riccardo Benavides was behind the breathtaking decor

Photo Credit: Andrew Caulfield for Drew Altizer Photography

Guests dined on delicious salmon filet while enjoying beverages from sparkling wine sponsor, Roederer Estate and wine sponsor, Castellucci Napa Valley. Romance radiated the entire space as lavender, peach and subtle pink hued florals embellished the tables, and an oversized foliage Marchesa sign wowed those as they arrived.

Castellucci Napa Valley wine

Photo Credit: Andrew Caulfield for Drew Altizer Photography

The afternoon opened with a live auction bidding frenzy which included two first class tickets to New York, VIP behind the scenes look at the Marchesa fashion house with a $3000 credit towards a custom-made Marchesa gown, dinner at Tao Restaurant in New York and deluxe accommodations. For $20K the lucky bidder will enjoy this fabulous weekend in New York.

The show

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer

Jaw-dropping designs graced the catwalk, as flowing layers of tulle, feathers, beads, and lace were admired by all. These stunning, made-to-measure gowns are hand detailed and uniquely whimsical in their texture, drape, and silhouette. Featuring 30 exclusive designs adorned with intricate detailing and a ranging color palette, the swoon factor was huge, and the crush on Marchesa couture filled the room.

Courtney Labe shops the Marchesa collection

Photo Credit: Andrew Caulfield for Drew Altizer Photography

The visionary Chapman paid homage to her parents for instilling and supporting her artistic vibe and allowing her to create. Should Chapman’s fanciful and utopian creations tickle your fancy, be sure to set a section of your wardrobe aside exclusively for the fantasy, glamorous and dream-like designs of Marchesa.

Farah Makras, Sobia Shaikh and Komal Shah

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer

Lisa Zabelle and Cheryl Baxter

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer

Georgina Chapman and Haute Living San Francisco‘s publisher, Olivia Hsu Decker

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer

Navid Armstrong and Deepa Pakianathan

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer

Samantha Bechtel and Carolyn Chandler

Photo Credit: Andrew Caulfield for Drew Altizer Photography

Heide Betz and Bahya Murad

Photo Credit: Andrew Caulfield for Drew Altizer Photography

Elizabeth Birka-White and Jane Mudge

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer

Deborah Mosser and Natalia Urrutia-Hernandez

Photo Credit: Andrew Caulfield for Drew Altizer Photography

The fashion show

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer Photography

The fashion show

Photo Credit: Drew Altizer Photography

The fashion show
Jorge Maumer and Cynthia SchreuderPhoto Credit: Andrew Caulfield for Drew Altizer Photography