For 25 years, members of the Joliet Area Community Hospice guild have organized and put on a “Puttin’ on the Glitz,” hospice fashion show. This year, the event is bring held at the Rialto Square Theatre.
“We cannot think of a better venue for our 25th Anniversary Fashion Show,” Fashion Show co-chair Jeanette Darcy said in a written release. “The show is bigger, longer and with twice the number of models and fashions.”
The event will start with a luncheon, served in the Hall of Mirrors and Rotunda at the Rialto, followed by the show in the theatre. Each attendee will have reserved seating in the theater with tickets distributed during lunch.
For the past twenty-five years the fashions have been from Hansen’s Villa and this year is no exception.
“This season, bold is beautiful, seems to be the message,” Betty Hansen, of Hansen’s Villa said in a written release. “Fall and winter is the time to revamp your outfits.
"Accessorizing darker tones with brightly colored belts, scarves, hats and jewelry sets you ahead of the curve.”
Jean Streitz, co-chair of the event, is confident the show will feature many must haves for wardrobes.
“You will see several scene stealers,” she said. “Betty travels to New York City each year just before our show to order clothes that will flatter all women.”
Hanson stated that what Hanson Villa does best is not repeat fashions.
“We look for designs that bring out emotion in our wearers,” she said. “Today’s woman also looks at fashion for quality-based dressing.
"They look for value and versatility.”
The Hospice Guild started the fashion show as a fundraiser and awareness campaign for the Joliet Area Community Hospice home. The home was in dire need for funds, awareness and a support group. It wasn’t very long before the guild realized their potential to make an impact, and decided to stage a fundraiser, which was the first “Puttin’ On The Glitz’ Fashion Show. It has been a sold out event each year.
Rick Kasper, JACH Executive Director, said that for more than 27 years, the members of the Hospice Guild have dedicated their time, talents and treasurers into making the JACH organization a success.
“Without their support, JACH would not be able serve so many families during their time of crisis,” he said. “JACH serves on an average day about 175 patients and over 1,200 families use bereavement services.”
“Puttin’ on the Ritz” begins at 11:30 a.m., Nov. 4 with a luncheon, followed by the fashion show. The event is held this year at the Rialto Square Theatre. Tickets may be reserved by calling 815-460-3252. Tickets are $50 and the deadline is Oct. 27.