Eight countries were represented Saturday as residents of Santa Monica Christian Towers wore traditional dress from their homelands in celebration of International Women's Day.
The fashion show, organized by the building's Residents Council and headed by council leader Julieta Tobar, brought together women from Egypt, Ecuador, Mexico, Iran, Syria, the United States, India and Russia for an afternoon of celebration at the building located at 1233 6th St.
"On top of being a celebration for International Women's Day, this was a way to include all the women of SMCT to celebrate their communities and to raise awareness of each other's cultures," Tobar said. "The Residents Council often plans events for the building to get together and give residents the opportunity to socialize."
The event featured more than just fashion. A segment honoring the suffragettes, personified by resident Ida Reilly, paid tribute to the women who fought for voting rights. Dan Nessel, son-in-law of resident Sharyn Mattingly, served as master of ceremonies, while resident Mick Flaum presented a Carmen Miranda impersonator who closed the show.
For Tobar, recruiting participants was a natural process. Many of the building's residents live alone, and the opportunity to connect with neighbors while celebrating their heritage proved appealing.
"Most of the women in this building live by themselves, and it's important to socialize and get together to know each other better," Tobar said. "After speaking with many of the residents and asking for their collaboration, they were happy and excited to participate, proudly representing their own countries."
The runway show highlighted the diversity that exists within the walls of the senior community, a reflection of the broader American experience. Residents modeled traditional garments from their native countries, drawing applause from the audience as they walked the runway.
For Tobar, showcasing that diversity was the most meaningful aspect of organizing the event.
"It was making all the residents in the building and the invitees know the diversity that exists in this building, like in all the United States," she said.
The afternoon was filled with laughter and applause as the tight-knit community came together in a display of culture, pride and unity. Beyond the vibrant clothing and traditions on display, the event honored the backgrounds of the women who call Santa Monica Christian Towers home and celebrated the strength and resilience of women everywhere.
The fashion show is one of several events the Residents Council organizes to give residents the opportunity to socialize.
Saturday's celebration highlighted the diversity that exists within Santa Monica Christian Towers and honored the strength and resilience of women everywhere.