The AX Paris Charity Ball

The AX Paris Charity Ball raises over £155,000 for The Christie!

 

The Event:

On Wednesday 29th October, I ventured to Manchester to attend the AX Paris Charity Ball at the Deansgate Hilton. It really was an awesome event. Where to start? Well, how about the important point – the entire event raised £155k for one of England’s leading specialist cancer hospitals, The Christie.

The Christie is a pioneer in cancer research and is the largest cancer centre of its type in Europe. It treats more than 40,000 patients each year, and although based in Manchester, The Christie NHS Foundation Trustand Charity treats 25% of its patients from all over the UK. With 2,500 staff and 350 volunteers the cancer centre couldn’t be a more worthy charity to raise money for.

The star studded invite list included an array of celebs, industry influencers and fashion brands. Although, there was one special guest, Lois, who very generously gave ten minutes to everyone at the event to recount her struggle with brain cancer. Lois’ story was poignant, inspiring and very apt for the occasion – she was successfully treated at The Christie.

The event was superbly hosted by the Hilton and the ballroom looked sparkling and glamorous. You can see pictures as well as the Manchester Evening News’ take on the occasion here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The outfit:

Choosing an outfit for the occasion was difficult, with the dress code described as ‘Dress to impress’. It was a bit of a catch 22, not wanting to over or under dress for the occasion.

A formal white shirt was a given for our outfit choice and when I think of quality and formal shirts, I naturally go for a Pin Collar Shirts white shirt. This shirt provides a natural slim fit to give a tailored feel, and for just £85, represents great value for money. Check this particular shirt out here. The stainless steel pin collar bar is reminiscent of The Rat Pack’esque stye and I love it.

I matched the shirt with a slim fit navy blue Ted Baker suit with satin lapels complimented with a gold tie and pocket square. On reflection, I would have loved to have worn the Orange Paisley tie from Pin Collar Shirts – love the pattern, and would have given the outfit a little more noise.

 

It was really rewarding to see familiar faces and to have enjoyable, informal conversations with friends and acquaintances from all over the UK fashion industry, as well as helping contribute to such a great cause!