Miami, FL – January 11, 2017 – Fashion and philanthropy were in style at Fairchild’s Splendor in the Garden Fashion show and Fundraiser. More than 300 fashion-forward philanthropists attended the 6th Annual Splendor in the Garden fashion show and fundraiser held at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Guests gathered for a fun-filled day of fashion supporting Fairchild’s programs in education, conservation science, and horticulture. The event was presented by Neiman Marcus Coral Gables, Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay, and Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables with sponsorship from Terra Group. This year’s 2017 Fairchild Philanthropy Honorees were Susan Abraham, Silvia Fortun, Felicia Knaul, Marile Lopez, Daysi Johansson, Marisa Toccin Lucas, Brittany Lopez Slater and Ana VeigaMilton.

The day began with an outdoor cocktail reception sponsored by Dall’Armellina Vineyards and Sunset Corners. Guests then walked to the lakeside marquee, where emcee Beatriz Canals of ABC welcomed everyone and introduced  Fairchild Board of Trustees President Bruce Greer.  Honorary Co-Chairs Swanee DiMare and Frances Sevilla Sacasa along with event Chairs Barbara Hevia and Lydia Touzet thanked the sponsors, former honorees, and audience for supporting Fairchild. Dr. Carl Lewis, Fairchild’s Director, spoke about the science and education initiatives that fundraisers like Splendor in the Garden help to sustain. Stephen Brunelle, VP/General Manager of Neiman Marcus Coral Gables, introduced Ken Downing, Senior VP and Fashion Director of Neiman Marcus, lauding his achievements in the fashion industry. Ken Downing took the stage to much applause by an adoring crowd. This was Ken Downing’s 6th year producing the now highly anticipated fashion show. He presented a first look at the Spring 2017 collections, with a wide range of fabulous designers available at NM Coral Gables.  Stand out Spring trends include, Ruffles and Flounces, Shirting Redefined, Stripes – linear thinking is in! -, Peekaboo Shoulders and Legs, Neutrals – whites, creams and khaki’s, with a splash of olive -, and Head-turning earrings – oversized and over the top. For beauty, the Spring 2017 face has a bold, pink lip. All makeup was done Le Metier de Beaute.