Photo: George Pimentel

Diane von Furstenberg

Private Residence, Toronto, 2017

For the first daytime incarnation of Suzanne Rogers Presents, an elegant luncheon hosted inside one of Toronto’s grandest private homes,...

Rogers knew precisely whom she wanted to showcase. A longtime admirer of Diane von Furstenberg, Rogers met the iconic designer, entrepreneur and industry leader two years ago at her landmark DVF Awards. A warm friendship ensued, and von Furstenberg was delighted at the invitation to step into the Suzanne Rogers Presents spotlight. The bespoke event featured a career-spanning conversation with von Furstenberg, hosted by another fashion guru, Vogue contributing editor André Leon Talley, plus a special performance by fast-rising pop star Fletcher. Proceeds from the sold-out luncheon totalled more than $500,000 benefitting two remarkable initiatives: Covenant House’s ‘Just Like a Girl You Know’ campaign, aimed at helping young victims escape the sex trade and rebuild their lives; and War Child, which has focused on bettering the lives of children in war-torn regions for nearly 25 years. “I would like to thank Suzanne Rogers for inviting me to Toronto, and for organizing a truly memorable day,” said von Furstenberg. “I am delighted that I was able to contribute to an event that raised such significant funds for children’s charities.”

Photo: George Pimentel

"This was our fourth Suzanne Rogers Presents event, but in many ways the most satisfying, because Diane was not only a spectacular guest of honour but also as deeply committed as I am to bettering the lives of underprivileged and endangered children around the world”

- – Suzanne Rogers

“Fashion, fundraising and just plain fun were on the menu (along with delicious food)! the elegant and witty designer, 70, captivated the audience (many of them resplendent in DVF creations) as she traded anecdotes onstage with her old friend, Vogue contributing editor, André Leon Talley.”

- – Hello! Canada

Photo: George Pimentel

Photo: George Pimentel

Photo: George Pimentel

Photo: George Pimentel

Photo: George Pimentel

Photo: George Pimentel

Photo: George Pimentel