Model Jan Strimple gets a kiss from designer Bob Mackie during a runway show in the 1990's. Photo c/o Jan Strimple.
Fashion Group International of Dallas, most commonly known as just FGI Dallas, will present its annual Night of Stars Gala on Friday, November 15th. A portion of proceeds from the evening will benefit the Fashion Group Foundation of Dallas, which provides scholarships to fashion students in Texas and surrounding states. This year's star attraction will be the legendary fashion designer, Bob Mackie, who will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award. Mackie is an internationally renowned costume and fashion designer who has dressed some of the most glamorous entertainment icons in the world including Cher, RuPaul, Liza Minelli, Diana Ross, Bette Midler, Tina Turner, Elton John to name a few. Just a very few... With a career spanning five decades, nine Emmy Award wins, three Academy Award nominations, and an induction into the Television Academy Hall of Fame, Bob Mackie's career is nothing short of legendary. Most recently, he received a 2019 Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, and Outer Critics Circle Award for his work on The Cher Show.
Clearly, Mackie is no stranger to receiving accolades, so I reached out to ask him what receiving this particular award, from FGI Dallas meant to him. "I have many wonderful Dallas memories, but probably my most special one was on my very first trip to present our first, ever Dallas fashion show, followed by the unpredictable trunk show," said Mackie. "The young man whose family owned the store we were appearing in was worried that I might not approve of one of the models. 'She’s very different,' he said, 'She might be too extreme or too exotic. She’s not the usual Dallas girl. If you want to change to another girl, it would be ok.' Moments later I was introduced to the fashion goddess of my life. From that day on, I never did an important fashion event without the amazingly gorgeous Jan Strimple!"
Mackie went on to opine, "The women of Dallas truly understand the power and glory of 'dressing up'. They love color, style and opulence and all the good things associated with 'dressing up'. God Bless Them All! It just occurred to me that this is my first trip to Dallas in almost 20 years, so I am looking forward to all of the old and latest 'Must Visits'." And we are looking forward to showing Mackie how Dallas fashion has evolved!
This year’s event will take place at the Adolphus at 6:30 p.m. with Cameron Silver, Fashion Director of the Halston Brand serving as emcee. In addition to Mackie, the evening’s honorees will also include Veronica Swanson Beard and Veronica Miele Beard, Angie Harmon, Sandra Moon, and John Terlingo. Dress to impress folks. This crowd means business and it's sure to be an evening full of glitz, glamour and eye-candy. Tickets start at $350 and can be purchased HERE.
