San Francisco, CA – In an inspiring celebration of style, culture, and community, the San Francisco Opera Guild joined forces with Neiman Marcus to present The Art of Fashion Runway Show and Luncheon on Wednesday, May 13, at Neiman Marcus San Francisco. The elegant affair seamlessly blended high fashion with meaningful philanthropy, raising vital funds in support of the Guild’s acclaimed music education programs that benefit more than 60,000 students annually across Northern California.

Co-chaired by Teresa Medearis and Pam Preston, the afternoon welcomed distinguished guests for a sophisticated experience centered around luxury fashion and the transformative power of the arts. Attendees arrived at a champagne reception in a beautifully curated setting designed by renowned event stylist J. Riccardo Benavides, whose elegant touch created a refined atmosphere from the moment guests entered.

The program featured an engaging presentation by Chloe King, Director of Fashion & Lifestyle at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, who shared insights into the season’s emerging fashion trends and the evolving landscape of luxury retail. Guests were then treated to an exclusive runway presentation showcasing standout collections from some of the world’s most celebrated fashion houses, bringing a sense of glamour and artistry to the runway.

Beyond the fashion spectacle, the event underscored the Guild’s dedication to arts education and youth development. Guests enjoyed a refined luncheon accompanied by a moving performance from the Guild’s Opera Scouts, highlighting the remarkable talent fostered through the organization’s educational initiatives. The afternoon continued with an energetic live auction and Fund-a-Need, inspiring generous contributions to ensure the continued expansion of music
education opportunities throughout the region.

The evening before the main event, Benefactor and Grand Benefactor guests gathered for an intimate cocktail reception with Chloe King at Villa Taverna, offering supporters a special opportunity to celebrate the occasion in an elegant and intimate setting ahead of the runway show.

Among the notable attendees were Anna Chung, Courtney Labe, Teresa Medearis, Pam Preston, and Chloe King, all united in support of the Guild’s mission to make music education accessible to future generations.

With its seamless fusion of couture, philanthropy, and cultural impact, The Art of Fashion Runway Show and Luncheon once again demonstrated the enduring connection between fashion and the arts, reinforcing San Francisco’s vibrant philanthropic and creative community.

Co-Chair Teresa Medearis said “I can’t think of anything more meaningful than supporting San Francisco Opera Guild’s mission—youth education and music in our community. It is a pleasure to work with our valued partner, Neiman Marcus, to create this extraordinary and stylish event which benefits the entire San Francisco Bay Area!”

Co-Chair Pam Preston added “As a San Francisco native who spent 14 wonderful years in New York, it is especially meaningful to co-chair an event that brings together global fashion and the heart of our city. The Art of Fashion promises a beautiful afternoon, spring trend insights and a stunning runway show . . . all in support of the Opera Guild’s extraordinary education programs.

We are so grateful to welcome Chloe King back to San Francisco; her vision and style make this celebration even more special as we cheer on our city and our Opera Guild!”

“The Art of Fashion is a beautiful expression of how style and the arts come together in a meaningful way,” says Chloe King, “I’m delighted to return to San Francisco to share a thoughtfully curated selection with our Bay Area clientele in mind, whose deep knowledge and sincere enjoyment of fashion continue to inspire us. To celebrate fashion in support of the San Francisco Opera Guild’s impactful mission makes the afternoon all the more special.”

Founded in 1939, San Francisco Opera Guild is a leader in music and arts education across Northern California. Its mission—“to give voice to potential”— centers on celebrating diverse voices in education and community settings, as well as developing a forward-thinking, philanthropic community committed to fostering the future of opera. San Francisco Opera Guild produces some of the most prestigious events on the Bay Area’s philanthropic calendar, including partnering with San Francisco Opera to present Opera Ball. The Guild’s education programs engage students of all ages, employing artists and educators to share the beauty of this art form through the Opera Previews series, workshops and a full menu of in-school and community programming for children from early childhood through high school.