Philanthropy and Fashion Combine At Chic Awearness

There is a season for everything. And the new era for Chic Awearness is red hot — or in this case, teal blue. Ovarian cancer survivor Marci Houff founded the organization to raise awareness, support and crucial funds for ovarian cancer research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Teal, the signature color for ovarian cancer awareness, represents courage, strength and hope in the fight against the disease. And Chic Awearness displayed it at every turn.

This year, Marci and her board designed a more intimate experience, shifting from a large-scale runway show to a salon-style fashion presentation and dinner. Guests gathered at the Four Seasons Nashville’s Mimo for the event, greeted by Champagne glasses with butterfly ornaments — another symbol of ovarian cancer awareness. 

Once guests took their seats, Marci shared the story of her diagnosis. “The first emotion I often say I felt was fear — just flat-out, scared-as-hell fear,” she said. In addition to being scared for her family, she was afraid of the treatment, of losing her hair, and of feeling isolated. “I didn’t know anybody that had ovarian cancer, so I felt very alone,” Marci shared. Today, Marci celebrates 17 years in remission and dedicates her time to helping other women with the same diagnosis. Thus far, Chic Awearness has raised $1.4 million for the cause.

Dr. Ronald Alvarez, chairman of VUMC’s obstetrics and gynecology department, followed Marci’s speech with an important message. “The National Academy of Medicine just came out with a report about how research in women’s health has been really poorly funded,” he said. “I think it’s really important for you to know, as women, that you need to be an advocate for women’s health research — not only in [gynecologic] cancer, but across the whole spectrum of diseases that affect women.”

In a moving moment, Tracy Wade and the board surprised Marci with the Frances Hill Caldwell Courage Award, which honors its namesake’s warmth, bravery and grace during her own fight with ovarian cancer. As the night segued into a fashion presentation, models walked through the room wearing fall designs from Alice, Emerson Grace and H. Audrey.