San Francisco Opera and Neiman Marcus partnered to present The Art of Fashion Runway Show & Luncheon, bringing together style, philanthropy, and the performing arts in one afternoon while supporting the Guild's arts education programs throughout Northern California.

Click below to WATCH our highlights, get a closer look at this season's standout fashion trends, and learn more about the Guild's incredible programs and impact throughout the community.

Before the fashion show officially began, the luncheon created space for connection among longtime Opera Guild supporters, fashion enthusiasts, civic leaders, and guests who came together around a shared belief in the importance of creativity and access to the arts.

Safiya Jihan Adams, Nancy Barrett, Joy Cooper

Dianne Taube, Catherine Bassick

“There is nothing like contributing to community impact,” said Teresa Medearis, Co-Chair of The Art of Fashion Runway Show & Luncheon. “As someone from San Francisco, the Guild brings our community and love for the arts together,” added Pam Preston, who also co-chaired this year's event.

Pam Preston, Susan Malot, Chloe King, Teresa Medearis, Kari Coomans

That spirit of community was evident throughout the room. Guests ranged from Opera Guild members who had supported the organization for years to first-time attendees discovering the event for the very first time.

Young patrons of the arts mingled alongside longtime supporters, creating an atmosphere that felt both vibrant and welcoming. Across generations and backgrounds, attendees shared a common passion for the arts and a belief in their power to inspire, educate, and bring people together.

Roman Gronkowski, Stephanie Block, Betty Yu, Pam Preston

It was this sense of connection between people, organizations, and generations that made the afternoon feel about more than fashion alone.

“People love to support the Opera Guild. It's such a great organization,” said Maryam Muduroglu, former President of the San Francisco Opera Guild. “What we do through our education programs and the impact we're able to make is something people know and recognize. I also love the fact that fashion is part of the arts and part of what keeps us moving forward.”

Carolyn Chang, Maryam Muduroglu, Marisa Rodriguez

The runway presentation, curated by Chloe King, Director of Fashion & Lifestyle at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, offered inspiration for the many cultural moments ahead—from Opera Ball and opening night to galas, dinner parties, and afternoons out across the city.

The looks moved beyond traditional formalwear, offering a more expansive view of what dressing for the arts can be.

“There’s this attitude of really going for it and getting dressed with a capital ‘D,’” said King. “For a while, fashion was more subdued and casual, but right now it’s really about dressing as an act of defiance. Everything from hats and gloves to jewelry and heels. Really going for it!”

Kari Coomans, Chloe King

That philosophy was reflected throughout the runway presentation. Bold accessories, statement pieces, and thoughtfully styled looks encouraged guests to embrace fashion as a form of personal expression rather than simply following trends.

The runway wasn't about prescribing what guests should wear; it was about inspiring them to embrace fashion as an extension of their own personality. It's an approach that has made King's curatorial eye a standout part of the event.

“It’s so great to have Chloe King back for this event,” said Courtney LaBaze, President of the San Francisco Opera Guild. “We loved having Chloe King last year. It was the first time we'd done a multi-designer show like that, and it was so well received. She is so talented—the way she puts things together and creates so many fun looks. Everybody was really excited about it.”

From vibrant statement pieces to elegant eveningwear, the collection showcased a range of possibilities for arts lovers looking ahead to gala season, opening nights, and special cultural occasions.

There were pieces that embraced glamour, others that leaned into modern ease, and several that reminded us that the best event dressing often comes down to confidence, individuality, and a willingness to have fun with fashion.

Proceeds from the event supported San Francisco Opera Guild’s award-winning music education programs, which bring arts learning experiences to more than 60,000 students across Northern California.

Through these programs, young people are introduced to music, storytelling, performance, and creative expression, often in ways that can shape how they see themselves and the world around them.

When we asked Marissa Rodriguez, CEO of Union Square Alliance, what she would wear to the opera after seeing the runway presentation, she immediately recalled a striking green-and-black look.

“There was some sort of car-wash situation going on with a green and black outfit,” she laughed. “I fantasized about what it would be like to show up at the opera wearing that. It was so fun!”

Her reaction reflected the spirit of the afternoon. The runway wasn't simply about showcasing fashion; it was about inspiring guests to imagine where these looks might take them next.

Aquila Farrell, Kari Coomans

Another crowd favorite was a gold mirrored gown by Oscar de la Renta.“I’m still speechless!” said Aquila Farrell, San Francisco Opera Guild Board Member. “I think it would be perfect for Opera Ball!”

Her comment reflected what many guests were already thinking. With Opera Ball returning to the War Memorial Opera House and City Hall on September 12, several of the runway looks felt tailor-made for one of San Francisco's most glamorous evenings.

Chloe King, Devika Patil

By the end of the luncheon, guests left with plenty of inspiration for what to wear next season. More importantly, they left having supported an organization working to ensure that the next generation has access to the arts—not only from the audience, but perhaps one day from the stage.

Kari Coomans, Sarah Naini, Kim Mitchell

At its best, The Art of Fashion demonstrated that style can do more than make an entrance. It can help create opportunities for the next generation.