FLAIR "Eye on Style": A fashion show fundraiser for The Chicago Lighthouse

The Chicago Lighthouse hosted its 11th annual FLAIR "Eye on Style" fashion show fundraiser at the Ritz on Sept. 13. The event drew a capacity crowd to raise funds for the Lighthouse's children's programs for the blind and visually impaired and honored Shauna Montgomery, a well-known and beloved Chicago personality, former model and philanthropist.

Co-chaired by Sherry Lea Holson, Sherrill Bodine and Sheree Schimmer, the fashion show fundraiser showcased looks from Anne Fontaine, Contessa Bottega, Elda de la Rosa, Lafayette 148, Lauren Lein, Maria Pinto, Al Menotti and Nina Chicago. Presenting sponsor Macy's (My Stylist) served as the grand finale.

During the afternoon, guests mixed and mingled before sitting down for lunch and an exquisite fashion show produced by ZZAZZ Productions. The inclusive show featured models from the Lighthouse's Children and Youth Transition Programs and well as Lighthouse supporters.

A highlight of the runway was the mother-daughter walk with the honoree and her beautiful daughter Meredith Montgomery.

Last year's Hood/Swift Flair honoree, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, presented this year's winner with her award. Shauna's acceptance speech included many examples and reasons why people should support the Lighthouse. She spoke from the heart about her love for the nonprofit, of which she is now a trustee. 

Another show highlight was the presentation of Mattel's newest Barbie doll, a visually-impaired doll holding a cane, that was presented to special donors by Sherry Lea Holson, who was also dressed as Barbie wearing a pink tulle dress and pink boots.

Dr. Janet Szlyk brought the Lighthouse mission home during her passionate speech following a video presentation. "It's a place where our youth can find themselves and our children in our Bell program can learn Braille," shared Dr. Janet. She also shared the visions of a variety of other programs offered and acknowledged top donors Georgiann Pangere and Laura Selipsky and supporter Jonathon Hisle, GM of Saks Fifth Avenue, for all their support.

The fund-a-need was expertly, conducted by Freeman Hindman auctioneer Molly Morse Limmer.

With over 100 years of experience serving patients with vision loss, The Chicago Lighthouse responds to clients' needs with expertise and compassion. Whether you are a parent raising a child who is blind, a Veteran re-entering the workforce or an older adult seeking a community of peers, they offer customized care to improve the quality of life for you and your family. (Find out more about this wonderful nonprofit here.) 

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