Washington, D.C. saw a full house on October 26, 2025, as the Global Couture Gala took place at the Alexandria Mellon Auditorium. The historic venue provided a strong backdrop for the evening, with clear lighting and a well-organized runway setup. Guests settled in as the show opened, music kicked in, and models began their walks with calm confidence. The presentation felt current, professional, and focused on design and craftsmanship rather than theatrics.
Founded by Raiza Antonia Gonzalez Garcia, this gala has grown into more than a fashion gathering. It serves as a meeting ground for international designers, global guests, and lovers of creative expression, each carrying their own sense of pride and cultural identity. This year’s showcase embraced heritage, craft, and new ideas with thoughtful daring. The evening also held a tender note. Many of us carried Raiza Garcia in our thoughts, following the recent passing of her mother to breast cancer. Her dedication to presenting a beautiful event during such a personal loss reflected extraordinary strength and reminded us that style can also hold space for healing and community.
One moment that stood out for me was the recognition of my dear friend Jan Du Plain, CEO of Du Plain Global Enterprises, who received the Fashionista Award. For more than ten years, Jan and I have shared memorable experiences in the world of diplomacy and culture. Watching her take the stage, surrounded by friends and joined by her son, Jon A. Scaman, who flew in from Atlanta to support her, felt moving and remarkable. Her spirit has always combined elegance with sincerity. She connects people, lifts others up, and brings joy to every room she enters. That, to me, is true style.
Her gown, designed by Sonia Garbarino with luxurious textiles curated by Gilda Mizrahi of Signature Store, stood as a work of art. It did not simply dress the body. It told a story. Cultural detail blended with modern structure, creating a piece that spoke of confidence, creativity, and individuality. It served as a reminder that fashion carries narrative power. A thoughtful wardrobe choice can celebrate heritage, imagination, and personality, even during something as lively as Halloween.
This season invites you to approach Halloween as a chance to explore couture-level fantasy. The looks presented here offer glimpses of high-fashion costume ideas that blend character with glamour. Rather than default to the expected, consider how your outfit might express who you are: confident, intriguing, and memorable.
Imagine a vampire-inspired ensemble with quiet drama. Think of deep red velvet, striking jewelry, and presence that moves like a figure stepping from a storybook to a runway. This is not only a costume. It is a moment of theater mixed with elegance.
For a more romantic direction, consider inspiration from Viannk Mansur’s enchanting ballgowns. These designs carry a fairytale quality yet feel refined and strong. Their textured layers and graceful silhouettes suit formal evenings, seasonal galas, or any event that calls for an entrance with assurance and wonder.
Fashion offers more than fabric and ornament. It gives each of us the chance to define our voice, shape a mood, and walk into a room with intention. Whether on a grand stage or in everyday life, let your style speak for you.
