Hidden Diamonds: Fashion with Heart in San Diego
St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center celebrated 60 years of supporting individuals of all abilities with its 48th annual Haute with Heart Fashion Show & Luncheon at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront on August 15.
Guests began the afternoon enjoying champagne and boutique shopping before making their way into the ballroom for lunch and a special greeting performance by K. Emeline.
The Society of the Sacred Heart was honored during the event, with Barbara Thunder Barnes serving as Host Chair and Angel Kleinbub as Honorary Chair. Anna Couvrette and Teresa Sardina were Masters of Ceremonies, while CEO Debra Emerson welcomed guests and offered acknowledgements.
This year’s theme, “Hidden Diamonds,” celebrated the students of St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center and the unique talents they bring to the community.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was seeing the Center’s students take to the runway in fashions from Macy’s. Student representative Cali Williams received a special spotlight during the show.
The runway continued with fashions from Bloomingdale’s, colorful looks from Satori, and designs by Frances Taylor. Kristi Brooks produced the fashion show, creating an afternoon filled with fashion, celebration, and community spirit.
Beyond the glamour of the runway, Haute with Heart supports the important work of St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, which provides programs and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The event was made possible through the generosity of its many sponsors and supporters.
For more information about St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, visit stmsc.org.
Photos by Diana Cavagnaro
Upcoming Events:
September 10, 2026 - The Art of Fashion at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. The Country Friends is partnering with Costa Mesa’s South Coast Plaza. For Tickets: http://thecountryfriends.org/
September 26, 2026 - Strut for Sobriety Fashion Show at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina. For Tickets: https://www.anewpath.org/strut-for-sobriety
October 2-4 -Fashion Week San Diego (FWSD) For tickets at this longest-running official fashion week in the region: https://fashionweeksd.ticketsauce.com/e/fwsd2026
Oct 24,2026 -Kenneth Barlis Fashion Show at the Legacy Hotel. Doors open at 5pm. For tickets: https://bit.ly/4y2gJ9v
Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the Southern California area. Learn more about our Hat Designer, Teacher and Podcaster at:
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