Did you hear about the Make-A-Wish Gala that took a fabulous trip to Paris without leaving Guam? Guests rocked French berets and striped shirts, but here’s the twist: they paired their elegant outfits with the coolest tennis shoes! It was a night of incredible style, heartwarming charity, and unforgettable fashion statements. How do you pull off formal wear with sneakers?
The annual Make-A-Wish Foundation Guam and CNMI gala recently transformed the Hyatt Regency Guam into a vibrant celebration of philanthropy and distinctive style, drawing inspiration from the chic streets of Paris. This year’s event masterfully blended high fashion with a whimsical twist, captivating attendees with a unique sartorial theme.
Guests fully embraced the “Tastemaker Fashion” directive, arriving adorned in a delightful array of French-inspired attire. Many sported classic French berets, elegant marinière or striped shirts, and sophisticated scarves, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a Parisian soirée right on the shores of Guam.
The creative influence for the evening’s dress code stemmed directly from the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris 2024 and the popular Netflix series “Emily in Paris,” as shared by Nate Denight, a director with the foundation board. This dual inspiration provided a rich tapestry for attendees to explore, resulting in a truly memorable fashion showcase.
Beyond the elegant French elements, the gala continued its cherished tradition of encouraging guests to pair their formal ensembles with stylish tennis shoes. This unique blend of formal outfits with casual footwear has become a hallmark of the Make-A-Wish galas, allowing for playful expression and comfort without compromising on sophistication.
The “blue carpet” arrival was a spectacle of individual expression, where luminaries like Lana and Nate Denight radiated charm. Eric Tydingco, president and CEO of The Make-A-Wish Guam and CNMI, epitomized the event’s innovative spirit, showcasing a striking paisley coat and matching vest complemented by custom shoes that garnered much admiration.
The creativity extended to many others, including Tomoyuki Haneda, Takafumi Nogami, CJ Urquico, Andre Green, and chef Louis Ryu, who each displayed their distinct fashion sensibilities. Similarly, Patrick Palomo, Christine “Tini” Matanane, and Marvin Matanane proudly exhibited their “kicks,” demonstrating how seamlessly formal wear can be integrated with athletic footwear.
Indeed, the evening was a testament to how attendees embraced the challenge, with Haezel Ramos, Louena Carter, Jane Montales, and Jarina Porte donning fun solids that added to the diverse tapestry of styles. The collective fashion choices underscored the joyous and celebratory nature of the event, where self-expression was paramount.
More significantly, the gala serves as a crucial fundraising initiative for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, with President and CEO Eric Tydingco noting that the event typically generates “approximately 30%” of their annual revenue. This vital contribution directly supports the foundation’s mission of granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses in Guam and the CNMI.
Ultimately, the Make-A-Wish Gala proved to be a resounding success, not only in its fundraising efforts but also in fostering a vibrant community spirit and showcasing an unforgettable blend of French elegance and contemporary fashion, all while making dreams come true.
