Review of “Pique Nique Sur la Baie 2015” at the New College of Florida; Event benefited the New College and the Jane Bancroft Cook Library

By:  Carol Erickson

Champagne, Fashion & Friends

It was an unusually cloudy and misty day for Sarasota, but nothing was unusual about one of the most highly anticipated social events of the year, the “Pique Nique Sur la Baie 2015” at the New College of Florida.  It was held under a majestic white tent and the parade of gorgeously dressed women (and a few dapper men) cascaded down the stairway to mix and mingle with friends and meet new acquaintances.

Then there were the hats…a Pique Nique tradition!  Wearing a hat is like getting into a costume…it makes a statement.  The hats were decorated with flowers, feathers, bows and ribbons in a full spectrum of vibrant spring colors.  There is always something special about a woman in a hat.  She is sophisticated, whimsical, graceful and feminine and the hat gives a certain dignity to the dress and the event.

The first hour or so we mixed, mingled and perused the silent auction.  The amazing auction items were scattered throughout the event for everyone to take part.  Before we knew it, the fashion show began with its magnificent runway.  There were attractive models in stunning dresses and accessories with the perfect music to accompany the Las Vegas- style presentation.

It was an honor to be invited to this traditional event, and in the thriving charitable character that makes Sarasota so unique, it was also a successful fundraiser. The event benefited the New College and the Jane Bancroft Cook Library which ranks in the top five public liberal arts college in the US.

“Hats Off” to the outstanding committees, sponsors and donors who made this unforgettable festive day possible.  As a first-time attendee…I can simply say “Merci Beaucoup!”.

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http://www.ncf.edu/library

http://www.ncf.edu/

Pique Nique Sur La Baie, the fashion show and lunch that benefits the Jane Bancroft Cook Library at New College of Florida, returns for its 32nd year on Friday, March 27 on the College’s Bayfront. It’s one of the main events of the Sarasota social season and the fashion show — both the models on stage and the hat-wearing crowd of guests.

Pique Nique Sur la Baie

When: Friday, March 27, 11:30am to 2:00 pm

Where: New College Bayfront

Details: New College Foundation’s annual Pique Nique Sur la Baie, a with silent auction, a fashion show presented by The Met and lunch by Michael’s On East.