As festival season kicks off and cooler weather rolls in, it's time to pick up one of those long, tiered skirts that are back in style, and head outdoors! If you'd rather throw on a pair of jeans, Denim Hardwear's Fashion Show in River Ranch Town Square revealed the latest in designer fashions for men and women. Models strolled down the gazebo "runway," then guests headed to the shop for a reception and the search for the perfect pair of denim.
Café Des Amis in Breaux Bridge held another hugely successful art opening last week, exhibiting Janie Bayard's Watersheds & Kaleidoscopes. Janie did have some of her signature painted tapestries, but the new work features round colorful pieces resembling kaleidoscopes. "It was quite a crowd, with delicious food and wine," says Bayard. In addition to friend Clarisse Moroux, guests included Kendall and Vergie Banks, Virginia Younge, Judy Wade and Virginia Stuller. If you missed the opening, Janie's work will be up at the café through Oct. 23.
Speaking of the elegant Virginia Stuller, the head of Stuller Settings' South Sea pearl division has been out and about lately. She attended the official visit from Jean-David Levitte, ambassador of France to the United States, at City Hall last Friday. The ambassador announced more than $14 million in hurricane aid from French companies, as well as plans for a relief fundraiser on Nov. 1 at the French Embassy in Washington, D.C. Levitte earned even more applause from the crowd, including Philippe Gustin, Jody Nederveld, David Goodwyn, Joe Bourque and Monique Thierry, when the ambassador pledged his full support of Lafayette's celebration of the birth of the Marquis de Lafayette, planned for 2007. More news of hurricane efforts came when Virginia ran into Raymond Duplessis, a customer who was part of a delegation visiting from Bouctouche, New Brunswick. His group brought an 18-wheeler full of supplies to its twin city of St. Martinville. Hats off to you, Raymond!
Party On! ' PG