Nordstrom/Dooney & Bourke Share on Facebook Share on X Share to Flipboard Send an Email Show additional share options Share on LinkedIn Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share on Tumblr Share on Whats App Print the Article Post a Comment From the annual Baby2Baby Gala to to Selena Gomez's Rare Impact Fund benefit, there's no shortage of dazzling Hollywood events in the name of philanthropy, and it's never been more important to be charitable. Whether you're attending one of these star-studded give-back events, or you're just as proud to support a local benefit, one question may cross your mind: what exactly do you wear to a fancy fundraiser? For Gomez's said event in 2023, celebrity stylist Erin Walsh dressed her client in two custom looks for the night: one silvery, floor-length Valentino gown that would be a dream to wear for a Club Renaissance-themed wedding, and one stunning purple couture dress by Rahul Mishra that transformed the star into a literal flower in bloom. Related Stories Lifestyle Nordstrom's Beauty Sale Ends Tonight: 15 Hollywood Heroes From Clinique Black Honey to Crème de la Mer Lifestyle Given the Annual Success of Anthropologie's Beauty Advent Calendar, the Brand Doubles Down With a Mini Version for 2025 Although we don't all have the means to turn up in custom couture, it still helps to take a styling note from stars at these galas, so we can mimic the vibe. We tapped Hollywood stylists Olivia Rose (the talent behind some of Shania Twain and JoAnna Garcia Swisher's most iconic looks) and Danielle & Alix (known for dressing today's top cool girls like Paige Desorbo, Alix Earle, Ellie Thumann) to help us round up some fundraiser-friendly women's looks, including top picks you can buy online. Here's what we recommend. The Mannei Side-Slit Flared Trousers $338.61 $776.24 56% off Buy Now Danielle & Alix, the stylists behind digital darlings like Alix Earle and Paige Desorbo, suggest to stand out in a suit - but just not any suit. "For a fundraiser event, you can't go wrong in a suit," they say. "We've had our eye on The Mannei's Elijas oversized blazer with the split-hem trouser. It's a great balance of stylish and sophisticated." This pick above has a higher waist and slight flare at the bottom (and it's on sale for a limited time). Alexandre Birman Ciara Crystals Sandal $486 $695 30% off Buy Now Danielle & Alix suggest pairing your power suit with an equally eye-catching shoe. "We would definitely add in a standout shoe moment, especially for a red carpet photo," they say. Our favorite are these Alexandre Birman heels. The pointed front, metallic sheen and crystal detailing really ties the look together. A.L.C. Juliet Dress $595 Buy Now Inspired by Danielle & Alix's love for suits, we suggest playing with the idea of a suit by wearing a blazer dress, like A.L.C.'s Juliet dress, featuring padded shoulders and a pleated partial skirt underlay. The top, meantime, draws details from classic men's tuxedos: think pointed notch lapels, wide spread collar and flap pockets. Norma Kamali Women's Diana Gown $250 $275 9% off Buy Now Angela Bassett wore a one-shoulder gown to the Elizabeth Taylor Ball but it's not just celebrities who can pull off this figure-flattering look. Taking a note from Miss Bassett, we love Norma Kamali's wallet-friendly Diana gown, featuring easy pull-on styling and attached bodysuit lining. The best part: the brand is now available on Amazon, so Prime members can score a discount and get free two-day shipping, perfect for last-minute dressing. We like the navy version above, but the dress is available in multiple colors (and multiple sizes) online. House of Harlow 1960 x Revolve Maxime Maxi Dress $194 $318 39% off Buy Now At the same Elizabeth Taylor benefit, reality star and fashion fave Christine Chiu wore a silvery dress with unique sleeves and draping. We're going for a similar vibe but in a more accessible ivory shade here with House of Harlow's Maxime maxi dress, featuring a hidden side zipper closure, adjustable shoulder straps and off-the-shoulder ruffle sleeves. It's also still available in a light green colorway though the off-white color is probably more fundraiser appropriate. Likely Kerry Gown $450 $478 6% off Buy Now If you're looking for a little bit more coverage, take a note from Sabrina Elba, who wore a long-sleeve Givenchy gown to the UN General Assembly Goalkeepers gala. We found something similar but with a bit of flare in Likely's Kerry Gown, featuring long sleeves, a mock-neck with loop button closure, padded shoulders, and tonal sequin embellishments throughout. Nookie Penelope Halter Gown $369 Buy Now For a halter moment, Zoe Kravitz wore a Saint Laurent halter gown at a Kering Foundation Caring For Women event. We're eyeing Nookie's Penelope halter gown, featuring a scooped cowl neckline, a hidden back zip closure, and a lightweight but lined satin fabric with pleated detail. This dress is made in Australia and available in two colors. Blondie Ni
The Hollywood Reporter
What to Wear to a Fundraiser: Hollywood Stylists Reveal How to Dress to Give Back In Style
September 24, 2025
2 months ago
8 celebrities mentioned