Curated Texan
35th Annual Mad Hatter’s Luncheon Showcases English Elegance At Its Finest
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Tamytha Cameron and Celeste Cass
THE SCENE: The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden was the recent setting for one of the city’s most anticipated spring social events. Over 650 sociables, fashionistas, and philanthropists were on hand for the 35th Annual Majestic Mad Hatter’s Luncheon. This year’s affair, A Celebration of English Elegance, paid homage to the coronation of King Charles III on a gorgeously sunny day with hats, fashion, and fun fit for royalty.
THE VIBE: The contagious excitement could be felt by the garden-chic crowd from the moment they walked through the gates of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and were greeted with elegant champagne flutes to toast the success of one of Dallas’ most beloved events. Once inside, guests were seen mingling against the backdrop of the gorgeous greenery and pops of floral color of the venue. One of the most majestic (pun intended) facets about the Mad Hatter’s event is the stunning, artistic, hats serve as conversation starters that make this event one of Texas’ most welcoming.
As patrons toured the stunning grounds, they had the chance to view gorgeous spring fashions, as well as commemorating the experience with a photo on a swing surrounded by stunning flowers that meticulously brought elements of the grounds to the installation. Others were approached by one of eight hat judges, who requested that guests submit themselves for various hat categories including The Queen’s Choice: Most True to Theme; A True Princess Diana: Sure to be a lasting Fashion Legend; The Princess of Wales: Best Overall Ensemble; The Chelsea Flower Show: Most Creative use of Fresh Botanicals; The Hybrid: Best English Garden Hat with a Texas Twist; The Head Turner: Best in Show and The Royal Enclosure: Group that could attend Ascot Together as well as a People’s Choice Award.
Revelers then took to their seats for the main program. As guests dined on a delectable, English-themed spread, they were treated to words from event leaders who enthusiastically announced the winners of the hat categories, which featured a mix of elaborate, elegant, and historically significant looks including one who paid homage to Princess Diana’s legendary “Revenge Dress”. The festivities were capped off by words renowned designer Michael Faircloth, who celebrated the hope, history, and humor of the hat that left the audience wanting more–and excited to plan their ensembles for next year’s luncheon.
THE NON PROFIT: The 35th Annual Majestic Mad Hatter’s Luncheon, co-chaired by Anne Stodghill and Kristina Wrenn, with Kim Hext serving as honorary chair, raised over $350,000, an event record, for the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Hosted by the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary, proceeds raised from The Majestic Mad Hatter’s Luncheon will go toward maintaining A Woman’s Garden at the Dallas Arboretum, which is the only public garden in the United States conceived by women, funded by women and dedicated to the spirit of women.
