Male VIPs to model at fashion fundraiser

The VIP models are back.

For the second year, a group of prominent community leaders -- all men -- will strut down the runway at the Naperville Woman's Club Fall Fashion Show and Luncheon.

Modeling men's togs from Dean's Clothing in downtown Naperville, the four non-professional models undoubtedly will be "adding a little splash" to the show, event chairwoman Cassie Kunsch said.

Last year five men, all well-known movers and shakers, were in the show, Kunsch said.

This year, organizers decided to repeat the formula with four newly selected VIPs: Naperville Police Chief David Dial; John Hutchinson, president of MidAmerica Bank; Mike Skarr, president and chief executive officer of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce; and Naperville Unit District 203 Superintendent Alan Leis.

"A lot of teachers will come out to see Dr. Leis strut his stuff down the runway," Kunsch said.

The parade of VIPs will be part of a professional show by Zzazz Productions of Chicago showcasing fall, winter and holiday fashions from Coldwater Creek and a variety of Hinsdale boutiques, Kunsch said. The finale will feature items from York Furriers and Costello Jewelry Company.

The "Passion for Fashion" event begins at 10:30 a.m. at the White Eagle Golf Club. Before a noon luncheon, Kunsch said, guests can enter a raffle for 24 prizes, including an American Girl doll and jewelry from Costello.

A silent auction will offer more than 50 items donated by club and community members. Auction items include restaurant gift cards, Christmas ornaments, Naperville shopping sprees and wine tastings.

The event is a fundraiser for the club, which plans to donate the proceeds to Little Friends, a Naperville-based organization that provides services for disabled people, and Ecumenical Adult Care of Naperville, an organization that cares for frail and memory-impaired adults, Kunsch said.

The annual fashion show and luncheon usually nets between $8,000 and $10,000, she said.

This is the first year the club selected specific charities in advance of the benefit, Kunsch said.

"We're very pleased we're able to pinpoint two charities. It's helping us to sell tickets," she said. "To me, it makes it more meaningful."

If you go

What: "Passion for Fashion," Naperville Woman's Club's fall fashion show and luncheon

When: 10:30 a.m. Saturday

Where: White Eagle Golf Club, 3400 Club Drive, Naperville

Tickets: $40

Info: (630) 355-3792 or napervillewomansclub.com