To kick off Atlanta’s social and charitable season, Fashion Statement held their annual fashion fundraiser at Phipps Plaza, a Simon property. Combining culture, creativity, cuisine and care, Fashion Statement 2024 was earmarked to benefit breast cancer research at Susan G. Komen.

As nearly 300 stylish attendees gathered donning their favorite designer wear, the goal of the night was to unite Atlanta’s vibrant community of luxury retailers from Phipps Plaza and Lenox Square to showcase the latest trends, and champion a cause that impacts the lives of 1 in every 8 women in Atlanta.

The evening brought the luxury wing of Phipps Plaza to life with private shopping experiences inside haute retailers like Zimmerman and Givenchy. The cocktail reception indulged guests with light bites from Davio’s, Ecco and Citizens Market, while sipping on the themed cocktails of the evening: Carrie Cosmo and Runway Paloma. For the grand finale, models showcased collections from Spring/Summer New York Fashion Week by Akris, St. John, Etro and Balmain.

The night’s theme, “Make A Statement,” challenged guests to not only make a difference in expressing themselves through fashion but in giving back to the community. Together, the fashionistas in attendance raised over $100,000. Guests arrived dressed to impress, and took the opportunity to elevate their closets throughout the evening. The in-store shopping experiences and auction items featuring luxury designer bags from Christian Louboutin, decorative scarves from Alexander McQueen, fine jewelry from Sidney Garber and more, sent attendees home with style and grace.

When the lights dimmed and the runway music began, oo’s and ahh’s from the crowd filled the atmosphere–a tribute to the evening’s dual purpose of fashion and philanthropy. Guests marveled in the zeal of the night which was reflected through social media with constant reposts and content from the night as they expressed their delight in what a great experience they had and the stunning runway presentation that had exceptionally outdone itself from the previous year.

Another onstage highlight included Louise Sams, Fashion Statement’s “Make a Statement” Honoree. As one of the integral co-chairs of Fashion Statement, Louise has been instrumental in Fashion Statement’s patron support and beneficiary relationships, thanks to her experience with Jeffrey Fashion Cares, charity to which Fashion Statement pays much homage. Louise Sams was honored for her unwavering philanthropic support to our community, through her committee and board service with notable organizations such as Princeton University, the High Museum of Art and Meals On Wheels Atlanta. Fashion Statement was proud to salute Louise Sams’ many years of guidance, enthusiasm and generosity to them and all of the organizations she has timelessly supported.

“Fashion Statement's return for its second year was nothing short of spectacular. The event not only exceeded our expectations but also underscored the power of fashion in driving positive change,” says Phipps Plaza’s General Manager, Eric Howard. “Together, we united style and purpose, raising vital funds that will bring us closer to a world without breast cancer. Atlanta's unwavering support is a testament to the city’s commitment to making a meaningful difference.”

Fashion Statement will continue to make strides in giving back to the community as every two years they designate new beneficiaries to support. The beneficiary for 2025 will be announced later this year.

THE TEAM

• April Milliken, Creator/Executive Producer and President of eventologie

• Marsha Archer, Co-Chair and President of M-Squared Public Relations

• E. Vincent Martinez, Co-Chair and Creator of Fashionado

• Maken Payne, Co-Chair and Executive Director of Partnerships at Savannah College of Art and

• Design

• Louise Sams, Co-Chair and Community leader and Philanthropist

Access to imagery for your use can be found here.

Photo credit: Kim Evans Photos