10 feet in diameter. At least. How could she have fit all of it -let alone herself- into a carriage 100,000 moons ago? That was my thought as I glanced back on my walk up the hill. For an instant, modern times vanished in favor of a magnificent Marie Antoinette ballgown headed in my direction. Watching her weave her way around the cars made my "vintage" Dolce Gabbana number feel futuristic at best.

Following the complimentary shoe shine my boyfriend received (yes, Bernardo transforms on nights like these) as the mystery woman inched past him to the elevator, my question was answered. In one big swoop, she lifted pounds of fabric off the ground and just like that disappeared behind closing doors. I wish I had documented that moment but was enjoying the vision too much. 

This is how Ecole Notre Dame des Victoires, celebrating 90 years, fundraises for the school: lots of champagne, accoutrements of all eras, fabulous men and lively women who love to dance. It was a Bal de Paris to remember at San Francisco's Ritz Carlton. I did not manage to photograph the elusive woman who is forever etched in my memory bank. I will, however, leave you with a taste of that wonderful evening, including a photo of yours truly wearing some pieces from Designs by Alina's Diamond Collection which just launched today. Oh la la!

Stylist Mary Kinney, Elizabeth Charles and Alina de Albergaria at Elizabeth Charles Boutique

What is stylish, sexy, fun, and charitable to boot? Fillmore's Movable Feast and Fashion's Night Out. 

On Fillmore Street which boasts delectable eateries and upscale shops, you will find the brands you know, but more importantly, the ones you don't. And if you are like me easily trading in a name for quality fabrics, unique designs, and superb construction, this street is a windfall. As my good friend, Nancy puts it: "I rank Fillmore and San Francisco right alongside the Marais and Paris for shopping and walkability." She would know for she is well on her way to completing her goal of having set foot in 100 countries.

Suffice it to say that on the evening of the event I was in heaven. Quickly discovering that all the fog talk is either a myth or global-warming fact, my Roman date (AKA awesome husband) and I strolled on over to Fillmore Street on a temperate October evening where we were greeted with wine varietals and delicious cuisine from Baker and Banker which sadly closed a few days later. Last stop: Elizabeth Charles, where an array of desserts and a bottle of bubbly await amidst an entertaining crowd with which to sip, chat, view Elizabeth's exquisite fall collection and answer questions about the Designs by Alina pieces on display.

The event raised thousands of dollars for the Ronald McDonald house, whose mission is to create, find and support programs that directly improve the health and wellbeing of children. A fabulous night out for a wonderful cause...gotta love this city!