Mariska Hargitay Leads Star-Studded Kering Foundation Dinner, Uniting Fashion and the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
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Mariska Hargitay led a star-studded night at the Kering Foundation Dinner, showcasing bold fashion and uniting for the fight against gender-based violence. The event raised a record $4.5 million, highlighting critical support for a vital cause.
New York City witnessed a convergence of Hollywood and high fashion on Thursday evening at The Kering Foundation’s annual Caring for Women Dinner. Actress Mariska Hargitay, best known as Olivia Benson on “Law & Order: SVU,” captivated attendees in a fiery red ensemble, a distinct departure from her on-screen persona. Beyond the dazzling display of designer wear, the evening served a profound purpose: to raise crucial funds and awareness in the ongoing battle against gender-based violence.
Hargitay’s Bold Statement and Deep Commitment
Hargitay, 61, commanded attention in a striking all-red gown by Taller Marmo. The ensemble featured an asymmetric neckline worn off one shoulder, billowing long sleeves, a floor-sweeping hem, and a cinched-in waist, notably accentuated by a daring thigh-high split. She completed her look with killer heels that elongated her toned leg and a sophisticated silver metallic purse.
The actress took to Instagram to express her profound gratitude and hope, underscoring the event’s significance. “Last night at the @keringfoundation #CaringForWomen dinner, my heart overflowed with hope. The energy in the room was electric—fellow advocates coming together with one mission: to end gender-based violence,” she wrote. Hargitay emphasized the urgent need for support, particularly given funding cuts impacting organizations dedicated to survivors. She lauded several groups, including SFFNY, FreeFrom.org, VIP in NYC, and Equality Now, for their transformative work, noting their connection to her own efforts with The Joyful Heart Foundation. The star also extended thanks to co-hosts Salma Hayek and François-Henri Pinault, and event partner Pomellato, for fostering an environment where individual passion could coalesce into collective action.
A Night of Impact: Raising Millions for a Critical Cause
The Kering Foundation benefit proved to be a resounding success, reportedly raising an impressive $4.5 million, a record sum, according to Vogue. Since its inception in 2008, the charitable organization has been actively combating gender-based violence, a pervasive issue affecting one in three women globally. The Foundation’s mission is multifaceted, aiming to halt the intergenerational cycle of violence by resourcing partner organizations, leveraging Kering’s vast ecosystem, and influencing broader societal change.
[INSERT CHART/GRAPH OF FUNDS RAISED OVER TIME BY KERING FOUNDATION]
Red Carpet Royalty: Celebrity Fashion and Philanthropy Unite
Beyond Hargitay, a host of Hollywood stars and fashion elite graced the event, demonstrating their commitment to the worthy cause while showcasing exquisite design.
Striking Style Statements
- Dakota Johnson made a memorable appearance in a “naked” Gucci dress. The floor-sweeping sheer black gown featured long sleeves, a high neck, an intricate floral design, and subtle sequins, accessorized with stunning emerald earrings.
- Jessica Chastain opted for a whimsical Gucci gown, intricately crafted from blossom pink lace. Her ensemble boasted a corseted design, sheer glitter-flecked panels, a floor-kissing silhouette, and all-over, vintage-inspired floral detailing.
- Event co-host Demi Moore also chose Gucci, Kering’s most lucrative brand. Her floor-length black dress featured a high neck, long sleeves, all-over sequins, and a notably daring thigh-high slit.
- Salma Hayek, whose husband François-Henri Pinault serves as chairman and CEO of Kering, co-hosted the event in a strapless tuxedo-inspired dress by Balenciaga. The design included a plunging sweetheart neckline, double-breasted buttons at the waistline, and a cinched silhouette.
- Supermodel Linda Evangelista presented her take on a classic tuxedo, featuring a slightly oversized fit, exaggerated shoulders, decorative frontal pockets, and matching pants with wide strips of satin detailing down the side. She completed the look with a crisp white shirt, its lengthy sleeves peeking from her tuxedo cuffs.
The star-studded gathering underscored the power of collective action, uniting influential figures from fashion and entertainment to advance the crucial mission of ending gender-based violence worldwide.
