COEUR d’ALENE — Ann Johnson has been to several of the 3Cs annual fashion shows.
She knows what keeps her coming back.
“It is a lot of fun and I love the fundraising aspect of it,” Johnson said. “It’s so important because it builds strong communities and when you see all of these women here today.”
The Coeur d’Alene Resort was transformed into a vibrant runway of color, confidence and charity before about 200 people who attended the charity luncheon Saturday.
Attendees were treated to countless looks and outfits from several local businesses from over 30 different models. From sporty looks to elegant wear, the collection highlighted pastel hues and fresh floral wear to mark the changing of the season.
The 3Cs stands for Cancer and Community Charities and has given back around $2.8 million to Kootenai County organizations since its founding in 1962.
Proceeds from the show represent its largest annual fundraiser that fuels donations and grants year-round.
“What makes me happier than anything is raising money for our community,” said Laura Chambers, fashion show chair. “The bottom line is about being there to help people.”
Before the main event there was an auction and raffle with more than 150 gift baskets, spa packages and other gifts valued at over $30,000.
This included two tickets for Holland America cruises with several destination options and another prize piece from Cisco’s Gallery, a Stephen Shortridge oil painting valued around $6,000.
“They are such a community organization.” said Matt Backs, auctioneer. “They look out for the people in our community. It’s in the name.
“It’s not about them, it’s about what they can do,” he added.
This year’s show was different from the past after being moved to midday to be the first luncheon show in several years.
For a region known for its beauty and tightknit communities, the 3Cs Fashion Show Luncheon proved once again that style and substance can go hand-in-hand.
“It’s a magical thing,” Johson said.
Meaghan Sheets, former Miss Idaho, watches rose petals flutter to the ground.
Adam Goldstein spreads his arms and embraces the crowd.
Hillary Shannon flaunts a gold dress.
Miranda Hamilton sticks her hands in her pockets to shot off the text on her jacket. Miranda Hamilton sticks her hands in her pockets to shot off the text on her jacket.