Fashion with a mission – Florida Weekly

Designer James Norton led an intimate conversation with Priscilla Presley. -BFA / DIANA ZAPATA

More than 600 guests gathered at The Breakers Palm Beach for the 27th Annual Old Bags Luncheon, the signature fundraiser for the Center for Family Services of Palm Beach County. By the close of the event, the organization was nearing its ambitious $1 million goal to expand critical mental health services across the region.

Palm Beach County continues to see rising demand for accessible counseling and family support, as households face economic hardship, trauma and widening mental health disparities. For decades, the Center has served as a beacon of hope, providing professional care, guidance and stability to children and families navigating difficult circumstances.

The Old Bags Luncheon seamlessly blends fashion, philanthropy and community leadership. This year’s luncheon sold out in record time, generating a lengthy wait list and reaffirming its place as one of the most anticipated gatherings on the Palm Beach calendar.

Guests enjoyed a beautifully appointed lunch in one of The Breakers’ oceanfront ballrooms, along with a highly anticipated silent auction featuring coveted new and gently used authentic designer handbags. The 2026 celebrity speaker, cultural icon, actress and philanthropist Priscilla Presley, captivated the audience with reflections on life, loss and resilience, underscoring the afternoon’s deeper purpose.

A standout moment was the unveiling and auction of the OBL 2026 IT Bag, designed by RobertJames. Handcrafted in the United States by master artisans, the bag features platinum-tone hardware and a versatile chain for shoulder or crossbody wear. Its auction shattered previous records, significantly advancing the Center’s fundraising drive.

The 2026 “IT Bag” was designed by RobertJames. -BFA / DIANA ZAPATA

With longtime sponsors including Rowe Plastic Surgery, Related Ross, Lougano and Palm Beach Media Group, the Old Bags Luncheon proves that style and substance are a powerful pairing — especially when mental health is at stake. For more, visit ctrfam.org/oblpalmbeach.