c'est bonne, c'est fraiche

By MEG MOORE

The fashion crowd isn’t generally known as early risers, but Loyola Academy fashionistas took Tim Gunn’s advice and “made it work.”More than 40 guests stepped out the morning of March 30 to find that perfect dress to wear for the school’s annual charity event May 5.But the show highlighted more than dresses — each model carried the perfect handbag for the Ramble.Santiago Gonzalez, president and creative director of Nancy Gonzalez handbags, battled his jet lag for his in-store appearance and also made a donation to the silent auction — a British racing green crocodile bowler handbag, retailing for $3,750.

“I’m biased. We’re Colombians. We were raised by Jesuits,” Gonzalez said. “All of the charities we support benefit children. That’s why we’re here so early this morning.”

While Laurie Bauer (and mother of Loyola Academy junior Matthew) of Winnetka is still searching for the perfect dress, she did scout the luxury handbags  — all crafted from exotic skins and in some cases, hand painted.

“These are timeless pieces I can pass on to my daughter,” she said. “But definitely a purchase I would like to make with my husband.”

Originally published April 5, 2012 in Pioneer Press Newspapers.

Reposted with permission.