More than 150 charitable partygoers headed to Tootsies for a night of fashion and fundraising, to kick off the sixth annual Suits for Shelters program. The initiative from the Mary Kay Foundation aids in the fight against domestic violence by providing professional attire to women for job interviews.
Mary Kay chief investment office Ryan Rogers and wife Maleiah served as hosts for the evening, during which attendees filled racks with new and gently used women’s professional attire, shoes and accessories. Tootsies rewarded each person’s generosity with a $25 gift card.
Guests — including Holly and Doug Deason, Jan Langbein, Ann and Bob Dyer, Katy and Lawrence Bock, Abi Ferrin, Bennett Pappas, Nancy Gopez, Jennifer and Travis Armayor, Carter Tolleson, and Gloria and Dan Burrows — shopped and sipped champagne prior to heading to the second floor for a fashion presentation. The Think Pink show featured representatives from the event’s nine beneficiary organizations, including Attitudes and Attire, Brighter Tomorrows, Denton County Friends of the Family, Genesis Women’s Shelter, Hope’s Door, Mosaic Family Service, New Beginning Center, Battered Women’s Foundation and Family Place.
“I think that most women can feel transformed by a new outfit,” Ryan Rogers said. “I’ve seen it happen in my own home, and I’m sure that most of you here tonight know what I’m talking about.
“It’s our hope that in some small way we can help a woman gain financial freedom, independence and a life free from abuse.”
Since 2009, the Suits for Shelters program has donated more than 12,000 items of professional clothing to women in need. Through August 4, any Tootsies shopper who brings in a donation will receive a $25 gift certificate.
Kristen Hughey, Hailey Neher, Nicole Weeldreyer
Tashara Parker and Barbara Bush.Photo by Lindsay Jones Photography
