By McKenna MIDDLETON, intern

The La Crescenta Woman’s Club (LCWC) celebrated the fashion and history of the Kentucky Derby on Saturday at its annual fashion show. The event was held on April 18 at the clubhouse and festivities kicked off at 10:30 a.m. Attendees arrived sporting Derby-esque outfits of bright colors and, of course, elaborate hats – many with hopes of winning the prestigious best hat contest.

The theme of this year’s show was Derby Days to pay homage to the significance of ladies’ fashion at Churchill Downs. The clubhouse walls and stage were lined with derby-themed decor. Each table centerpiece was unique as they were created by LCWC members.

“The event takes about three days to set up,” club president Carol Huntwork said.

Throughout the morning, attendees sipped iced tea and mint juleps while meandering around the silent auction tables that were full of extravagant baskets. All the items were donated by members and local businesses and were then compiled into baskets at “wrapping parties.” The proceeds from the silent auction will fund local scholarships.

In addition to the silent auction, there were opportunity items in which the winners were chosen through a raffle and live auction items that included trips, baseball tickets, and Disneyland passes.

At noon, students from Prom Plus Club served a southern-style lunch that included fried chicken, potatoes and a delectable pie. Once the silent auction closed officially, the fashion show began. Styles from Draper’s and Damon’s were presented to the crowd. Draper’s and Damon’s specializes in personal fashion and stressed the style, comfort and individuality of each item during the show. The company is celebrating its 88th anniversary this year, an accomplishment they were happy to share with the LCWC.

Overall, The Derby Days Fashion Show was filled with good company, great food, and gorgeous fashions. The club is currently preparing for its next event: the annual Junior Section Spring Tea Party which is to be held on May 9.

  Mckenna MIDDLETON