Couture for a Cause: An Unforgettable Evening of Fashion and Philanthropy
- lindafinn9
- Mar 19
- 4 min read
Event Details
Date: Friday, March 21, 2025Time: 6:00 PM – 9:30 PMLocation: Salem Waterfront Hotel, 225 Derby St, Salem, MA 01970
A Night of Fashion and Fun
Join us for an inspiring evening showcasing the talents of local fashion designers while supporting a cause that has been transforming women’s lives in Salem since 1876. Your ticket includes:
Exclusive fashion show featuring local designer collections
Access to the designer marketplace where you can purchase unique pieces
Delicious appetizers throughout the evening
Entertainment by a professional DJ
Exciting raffle prizes from local businesses and artisans
Cash bar with specialty cocktails
Featured Designers
Designer: Kelley Keefner
Originally from The Berkshires in Massachusetts, Kelley Keefner brings her sustainable fashion expertise to our runway. Under her ‘Kali Ku Designs’ label, Kelley has been creating upcycled and recycled garments for festivals and events across the United States, Mexico, and Central America.
The Una Starr pants line began as a creative project transforming materials from vintage wedding gowns and antique dresses into eye-catching, comfortable pants. What started as unique, one-of-a-kind pieces quickly became sought-after art wear, inspiring Kelley to develop a specialized line released in small artisanal batches.
At Couture for a Cause, you’ll see Una Starr’s signature pieces including textured dangle pants, metallic designs, and the popular American Flag pants collection—all embodying sustainable fashion at its most creative.
Designer: Brittney Roth
This bold, alternative brand brings edgy streetwear with attitude to our runway. With over 1,800 sales and a dedicated following, Mall Goth Trash specializes in handmade, printed, and embroidered apparel that makes a statement.
Their collection features unisex tees with provocative phrases, unique beanies and hats, creative patches, pins, and accessories. Expect to see their signature cropped fringe hoodies, statement beanies, and other pieces that blend alternative fashion with contemporary streetwear sensibilities.
Designer: Sophie Kaplan
Dark, whimsical, and handcrafted in Boston, Sophie Kaplan’s Skeletons in the Closet brings a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic to our fashion show. Her collection features dramatic pieces including burnout velvet robes, turtleneck dresses, velvet cutout bodysuits, and circle skirts with playful prints (and yes, with pockets!).
Sophie’s designs merge gothic elements with practical wearability, creating statement pieces that stand out while remaining comfortable and functional. Look for her signature “Nevermore” pieces, metallic accents, and unique silhouettes that celebrate individuality and artistic expression.
Designer: Svitlana Rozghon
With over 20 years of experience in bridal wear and haute couture, Svitlana Rozghon brings elegant sophistication to our runway. As the creative force behind Atelier Cape Ann in Salem, Svitlana combines her background as a fashion designer, sewing instructor, and high-end clothing manufacturer to create stunning custom garments.
Atelier Cape Ann specializes in made-to-order gowns crafted with quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship. For Couture for a Cause, expect to see Svitlana’s expert tailoring and attention to detail showcased in wedding-inspired pieces, evening wear, and sophisticated accessories that highlight her European-influenced aesthetic.
Artist, Designer, Poet
Based in Salem, Sabrina Jacqui Levin brings an artistic fusion of fashion, poetry, and visual art to our runway. Her creative philosophy is deeply personal – describing creativity as “blood pumping through my veins,” she dedicates her existence to her artistic vision.
Sabrina’s collection features handcrafted wearable pieces created with sustainable practices, blending fantasy-inspired art with practical fashion. Her work transcends traditional boundaries between art forms, incorporating elements of her poetry and illustrations into her designs. Expect to see dreamlike qualities and artistic expression embodied in each thoughtfully crafted piece.
Designer: Elena Rodgers
Specializing in “Self Care-Centric Comfort in Chaos,” Hi Sweetie Loungewear brings practical luxury to our runway with their crossover loungewear collection. Their designs focus on creating comfortable pieces that transition seamlessly between relaxation and everyday wear.
Elena’s approach to fashion celebrates the importance of self-care and comfort without sacrificing style. Her loungewear pieces are designed to make you feel both relaxed and put-together, perfect for today’s flexible lifestyles. Look for soft fabrics, thoughtful details, and versatile designs that embody her comfort-first philosophy.
Shop Unique Designs
After enjoying the runway show, you’ll have the opportunity to shop directly from our featured designers in the marketplace. From Una Starr’s comfortable, artistic pants to Mall Goth Trash’s bold statement pieces and Skeletons in the Closet’s dramatic velvet creations, you’ll find truly unique items to enhance your wardrobe while supporting both local designers and a worthy cause.
Why Your Attendance Matters
For nearly 150 years, the Woman’s Friend Society has been a pioneering force in Salem, creating innovative solutions to support women in need. From our historic beginnings providing literacy and employment services to today’s affordable housing at Emmerton House, we’ve remained committed to empowering women to embrace who they are, define their future, and change the world.
Proceeds from Couture for a Cause will directly fund our housing initiatives and community outreach programs that serve women throughout Greater Salem and beyond.
Tickets
General Admission: $45 (plus service fee)Purchase tickets now before they sell out!
Join the Movement
The Woman’s Friend Society believes that fashion, like philanthropy, can be a powerful form of self-expression and empowerment. By attending Couture for a Cause, you’re not just enjoying a night of style and sophistication—you’re helping to write the next chapter in our long history of creating positive change for women in our community.
Mark your calendar for March 21st and be part of an unforgettable evening that celebrates both fashion and compassion.
For sponsorship opportunities or to donate items for our raffle, please contact Elena Rodgers at elena@womansfriendsociety.org.
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