Rockin’ Red Ranchers attend the Go Red for Women Luncheon and Fashion Show

Left to right, first row: Jennifer Rahn, Sally Ryerson and Glenda Brown; second row: Rosemary Weinstein, Nanci Zipes, Bert Zeitlin and Ilene Schlesinger

Left to right, first row: Jennifer Rahn, Sally Ryerson and Glenda Brown; second row: Rosemary Weinstein, Nanci Zipes, Bert Zeitlin and Ilene Schlesinger

First row: Sandy Schroeder; second row, left to right: Betty Gardner and Judy Osborn; back row: Nita Ice

First row: Sandy Schroeder; second row, left to right: Betty Gardner and Judy Osborn; back row: Nita Ice

Rosemary Weinstein

Rich red satins, chiffons, fabrics covered in sequins and a string of lights wrapped more than two dozen models during the fashion show Friday, February 12, at the Go Red for Women Luncheon. Denton’s annual event raises money for the American Heart Association and makes people aware that heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death for women. According to the American Heart Association, 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented through lifestyle changes.

The symbol of this movement is a red dress, so each year fashion design students from Texas Woman’s University and the University of North Texas design dresses and gowns to show off during the luncheon. This year the luncheon’s theme was “Hearts Around the World,” with sections of the fashion show broken into different countries and continents. Attendees clapped and cheered as women in full red skirts and outfits with hats, handmade shoes and saris walked a platform.

The event chairwoman said attendance set a record this year.

Organizers could not fit enough tables at UNT’S Gateway Center to accommodate the level of interest. There were 42 tables, seating 340 guests decked out in red. It’s just growing and growing. The event also featured a silent auction, which raised money for the heart association. The Denton fire fighters were there to take donations. Ann Martin gave the keynote address; she spoke of her experience with heart disease and eventually undergoing open heart surgery last year. This event was planned by Rockin’ Red Ranchers Tawana Arnett, Ilene Schlesinger and Bert Zeitlin.