Rob Giardinelli
DIFFA Hosts Patron Preview Party Featuring 75 Designer Jackets At Auction
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Danny Campbell
The Joule Hotel in Dallas was recently the setting for a kickoff party for one of the state’s most notable spring events that combine fashion and philanthropy in unique and innovative ways. Several hundred guests turned out for DIFFA’s Patron Preview Party for a night of fun and to view a sneak peek of Texas’ most fashionable silent auction featuring an exquisite, curated group of 75 designer jackets from many notable designers including Balenciaga, Michael Bush, Joseff of Hollywood, Calvin Klein, Halston, Hive & Colony, Brandon Harris, Esé Azénabor, and many more.
David White
The energy and excitement could be felt as guests walked into the event entrance where they were greeted with trays of Don Julio margaritas and Ketel One Vodka sodas. Once they grabbed their favorite signature cocktail, the patrons walked inside to meet up with friends while taking a look at 30 of the most significant pieces for the upcoming live auction for the annual House of DIFFA event on May 13th, which will be a sold-out affair featuring over 1,400 super stylish people in Texas and beyond. This year’s theme, The List, will pay homage to legendary club and party venues like Studio 54, London Punk, and Coachella.
In addition to previewing the jackets, guests could take advantage of experiential installations strategically placed throughout the grounds of The Joule, including taking commemorative photos on a swing installation. The festivities of the cocktail hour were set against the backdrop of live tunes provided by DJ Souljah, which created a fun and lively vibe for all.
Gabriella Monte and James Peter Henry
Guests then gathered around a stage for the program and words from event leaders. Patron Party co-chairs Rick Castillo and Jennifer Miller kicked things off and thanked those who helped make the Patron Kickoff party a success. They then passed the microphones to House of DIFFA: The List co-chairs Haley Clark and Richard Rivas who announced the impressive line-up for the upcoming gala. First, Tony-Award® winning actor Kristen Chenowith was announced as the host of the event. This was followed by the announcement of the recipient of the Legacy in the Fight Against AIDS Award, which will be awarded to Fern Mallis, former executive director of CFDA, founder of New York Fashion Week, and one of the founding members DIFFA New York. Capping off the program will be Ken Downing, creative director for Halston, who will receive the Excellence in Fashion Award. Plus, there will be an extravagant runway show that will embrace the theme with looks that reflect Studio 54, London Punk and Coachella.
For those who have never attended, DIFFA’s silent auction is something of Texas gala legend. The bidding for the jackets is among the most robust of any event and each year at the main House of DIFFA event, jackets won from previous silent auctions can be seen throughout the room that pays homage to the rich, 31-year history of one of Texas’ most diverse and largest fundraising events. Some archived jackets worn at previous DIFFA silent auctions have been donated back to the event this year to help promote sustainable fashion including a jacket from actress Delta Burke.
Funds raised from House of DIFFA: The List will benefit organizations in North Texas that provide HIV/AIDS treatment, direct care and educational programs to targeted populations at risk of infection. Purchase your ticket to this unforgettable night of fun and fashion now by clicking here. Additionally, the House of DIFFA: The List silent auction is now live which you can view and bid on your favorite jacket now by clicking here. Happy shopping for a great cause, everyone.
