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Thousands Turn Up to Kick Off the Nutcracker Market at a Pair of Fab Fashion-Show Fetes

Daniel Ortiz
Thousands Turn Up to Kick Off the Nutcracker Market at a Pair of Fab Fashion-Show Fetes

A model on the runway at the Saks show kicking of the Nutcracker Market

A PAIR OF fashion-show events kicked off the annual Nutcracker Market in support of the Houston Ballet.

The Saks Fifth Avenue Fashion Show and Luncheon hit the runway at NRG Center first, with Ileana Treviño and Beth Zdeblick as chairs and TV’s Deborah Duncan as emcee, raising more than $450,000. Nearly 1,500 guests turned up for the stylish affair.

“Amidst a dreamy backdrop of whites and cream, guests dined stage-side while models donning Sachin & Babi designs — courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue — dazzled on the runway,” noted a rep for event organizers. “Contemporary yet classic pieces set an idyllic backdrop as a solo violinist executed a series of effervescent tunes, delivering a mix of spirited pop.”

The following day, Macy’s took center stage, for another fashionista fest drawing nearly 1,500 and raising about $375,000. Michelle Barrett, Sarah Davidson and Michelle Jeffery served as chair, with another Houston TV personality, Amy Davis, stepping in as emcee.

“Models glided down the runway in a blur of cream and gold to the holiday classic ‘Snow,’ which was followed by the contrasting bright and vibrant ensembles from the Disney collection,” said a rep. “Mickey Mouse even joined in on the fun, dancing down the catwalk to ‘Hey, Mickey!’ Another delight was the tribute to ‘Wicked,’ where models showcased their best Glinda- and Elphaba-inspired looks.”

The Nutcracker Market provides support for Houston Ballet, its Academy and scholarship programs. Since its inception in 1981, Nutcracker Market has raised more than $90.5 million for the Ballet.

Saks guests included Tracey Williford, Megan Kessler, Beth Zdeblick, Ileana Treviño, Sharon Erskine, Heidi Turney, Kristy Bradshaw, Lindsey Brown, Julie Kent, Beth Muecke, Patti Murphy, Martha Finger, Mignon Gill, Shawn Stephens, Blair Kessler, Jo Furr, C.C. Conner, Chita Kraft and Ann Bean. Macy’s welcomed Michelle Barrett, Sarah Davidson, Michelle Jeffery, Cheryl Zane, Amy Davis, Gary Hudgins, Susan Binney, Melissa Reihle, Jennifer Kushner and Tina Raham Stewart.

Allison Chavez, Devorah Rose and Chea Kelly at Saks show

Debbie Christ, Renee Humphrey, Katrina Anrim and Tina Raham-Stewart at Saks show

Sarah Lane and Lisa Sharp at the Macy's show

Models at the Macy's show

Deborah Elias, Laurette Veres and Jessica Rossman at Saks

Megan Kessler, Sarah Davidson and Camille Wieprecht at Macy's show

Wendy Burks, Renee Humphrey and Anne Graham at the Macy's show

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