New York — Sailing Heals, a MA–based nonprofit offering healing sails for those individuals and families facing a serious health setback like cancer, was pleased to host an exquisite evening of “Cocktails & Couture” at a prestigious yacht club in Manhattan.
Despite what 7th Avenue wants you to think, fashion shows don’t just happen during Fashion Week. Maggie Norris, who has dressed Nicole Kidman and Jennifer Aniston, gave a show at a prestigious private yacht club to benefit Sailing Heals. This Massachusetts–based nonprofit offers outings on the sea for people and families facing serious health setbacks including cancer. The evening was dubbed “Cocktails & Couture.” The show featured the work of Norris, whose other clients include Diane Keaton and Naomi Watts and Rene Ruizwho said, “I drew my inspiration from fashions worn by some of Hollywood’s most glamorous stars such as Greta Garbo, Joan Crawford, Grace Kelly, Cary Grant and Gary Cooper.” The evening of nautical-inspired daywear walked the runway on professional models, courtesy of TRUE Model Management, and others who have benefited from Sailing Heals modeled evening wear.
Trisha Boisvert, Jon Ollwerther and Helen Miller were the evening’s hosts that included a brief speech by Boston Marathon bombing survivor Heather Abbott about how she enjoyed a rejuvenating afternoon at sea and how important this experience can be for those who have had a serious injury or illness. Ms. Abbott received exuberant applause on the runway when she took her turn as a “VIP” model. She also founded the Heather Abbott Foundation, which helps amputees thrive in their recovery and live the life they love. She is a great example of someone who can harness the healing power of community and the sea in times of need. Modern Luxury’s Fashion Director James Aguiar served as emcee for the elegant evening. Guests included Pamela O’Connor, Jean Shafiroff and Barbara Regna, who also modeled and showcased her own accessory and jewelry collection on the runway. Also in the mix were luxury vintage purveyors Bridgette Morphew and Jason Lyon, Dr. David Fox, event planner Cristina Verger, gallerist Lyle Reitzel, Dr. Christopher Calapai, Jane Scher and Royce Pinkwater. Maggie and Rene gave back 20% of sales generated throughout “Cocktails & Couture” to Sailing Heals. sailingheals.org.
About Sailing Heals: Since beginning in 2011, Sailing Heals has hosted seaside lunches and yachting events in over 30 ports in nine different states for nearly 2,500 VIP guests. Invitations to participate in the Sailing Heals program are by word-of-mouth through medical personnel. Upcoming sails will take place in Naples, FL; Miami, FL; San Diego, CA; San Francisco, CA; Charleston, SC; Annapolis, MD; as well as several in NY and New England ports. Featured “themed” sails include a “Pirates & Princesses Treasure Hunt Adventure” for kids going through a serious health challenge, the Nurses Sail, Guy’s Sail and the annual Wicked Strong Sail for Boston Marathon Survivors. For even more information on Sailing Heals, visit www.sailingheals.org.
