Fashion and Fundraising : Diana, Princess of Wales: Dresses for a Cause

Princess Diana has touched the lives of countless people around the world with her powerful influence, glamour and charity. She will forever be remembered as a beloved mother, poised diplomat, humanitarian and fashion icon.

In spirit of Princess Diana, the Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala, along with the national Pink Ribbons Crusade, will host the exhibit Diana, Princess of Wales: Dresses for a Cause. This exhibition traces back to 1997 when the princess auctioned 79 hand picked gowns at Christie’s of New York, just eight weeks before her death. The auction was organized by Suzanne King, the founder of the Pink Ribbons Crusade. This upcoming exhibit showcases personal gowns and mementos owned by the princess and combines King’s passion for the life of Diana and the fight against breast cancer.

“This event is a unique opportunity for Appleton visitors to see exquisite fashions that belonged to an inspiring cultural icon and support breast cancer programs at the same time,” says Appleton Museum Director Robin McClea. The exhibition features the world’s largest collection of privately owned Princess Diana gowns, of which 26 were auctioned for charity by the princess.

In addition to the exhibition, the museum will host a royal gala on the eve of opening day. Special guests at this gala include Nigel Arch, director of Diana’s former residence, and Darren McGrady, author of Eating Royally and Princess Diana’s personal chef. Proceeds from the gala and other fundraising events will benefit breast cancer initiatives in Central Florida. This includes free mammograms for women who can not afford the exam.

The exhibition will run from Oct. 14 through Dec. 30. Exhibition hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets run $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $7 for students and $5 for children under 12.

Full service tea will be available Tuesday through Saturday at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. and Sundays at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tea service cost an additional $15 per person. Reservations are required and tickets may be purchased in combination with the exhibition or separately. All tickets may be purchased at the museum or by calling (352) 291-4455.

Owned and operated by Central Florida Community College, the Appleton Museum houses more than 16,000 works of art and artifacts. The museum is located at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., in Ocala, seven miles east of Interstate 75 on State Road 40. More information about the exhibit is available at www.appletonmuseum.org.

Source : Florida Monthly