St. Viator fashion show packs ‘em in
“Book ’em, Danno!”
Detective Steve McGarrett and his sidekick, Danno, were about the only ones missing from the “Viator Five-O” Fashion Show earlier this month at the Stonegate Conference and Banquet Centre in Hoffman Estates.
Timed near the end of St. Viator’s 50th anniversary year, the event drew hundreds of parents and nearly 200 models, including 170 students, 20 dancers and 10 faculty members modeling furs and fall ensembles.
St. Viator’s award-winning jazz band set the tone during the opening reception and boutique, playing the “Hawaii Five-O” theme, among other hits.
“Aloha,” said Lori Cataldo of Arlington Heights, co-president of the St. Viator Parents’ Club. “Welcome to our biggest and most successful fundraiser.”
Principal Eileen Manno underscored the fashion show’s role in enhancing the educational experience for students. She pointed to the two partial scholarships funded each year by Parents’ Club members, as well as the digital modern world language lab, two wireless computer labs, and the interactive SMART Boards in many of the classrooms, among some of their recent projects.
“For the past 19 years, this event has raised a significant amount of funding for school programs,” Manno said.
Guests enjoyed a Hawaiian themed-luncheon, complete with macadamia crusted chicken and standing yellow cake filled with pineapple mousse, before sitting back for the show.
Officials with Zzazz Productions, based in Oakbrook Terrace, produced and choreographed the show, giving student and faculty models a professional look.
They showcased fall and winter clothing, as well as accessories and formals from stores across the suburbs. Stores that participated are: A’GACI and Cache in Woodfield; Buckle, Erehwon, Francesca’s Collection, The Gap and Lucy Activewear, all from Deer Park Town Center; Peter Daniel and Savvy Spirit in Barrington; All About Me and Stilettos in Buffalo Grove; Ala Mode in Arlington Heights; Olivia’s Past in Long Grove; New Prospects in Park Ridge and Charming Charlie in Randhurst.
Formal gowns and tuxedos came from A L’Amour Bridal in Barrington, Volle’s Bridal & Boutique in Lake Zurich, Robin Elliott in Morton Grove, as well as Mr. Tux in Lake Zurich and Men’s Warehouse in Arlington Heights; while furs came from York Furrier in Deer Park.