ELIZABETH ANTHONY, THE UPTOWN PARK STAPLE among Houston ladies who lunch, served up fall couture last week at the Junior League of Houston’s annual Opening Style Show. The event, which in recent years had showcased looks from Tootsies, sent Junior League members-turned-models down the runway in ensembles from labels like Giambattista Valli, Prabal Gurung, and Christian Siriano—all carried at the boutique.

“We are really not in the clothing business, we are in the relationship business,” said Elizabeth Anthony owner Julie Phillips Roberts, who opened the lunchtime show in the League’s Tea Room and offered a synopsis on the season’s trends, from millennial pink to safari-inspired animal prints.

Runway looks, which appeared in six themed sets of seven ensembles from lace-detailed garments to evening gowns, were hand-picked by show producer Ursaline Hamilton. Standouts included an ombre dress by Roland Mouret with a blush Blumarine embroidered trench and, later, a ruffled Temperley London gownof saffron and gold inspired by David Beard’s photography of African wildlife.

Guests were also treated to a meal—chicken scallopini with truffle butter mashed potatoes and grilled zucchini, tiramisu, and the Tea Room’s beloved sweet rolls—and champagne. Ticket sales from the show, which featured afternoon and evening programs, fundraised for the 3,000-member-strong volunteer organization known for its frequent charity work in the community.

Source: September 13, 2018, Houstonia Magazine, Abby Ledoux