LILLY PULITZER FASHION SHOW IN BETHESDA

Cesco Osteria and Co2 Lounge chef Francesco Ricchi is finally making good on his promise that fashion models would hit the latter venue's runway.

"Warning," Ricchi advised in a blog post, "this event is going to be hot!"

But it's not a Victoria's Secret show.  Rather, it is an exclusive preview of the new Summer collection from Lilly Pulitzer, favorite of Jackie Kennedy, sorority sisters, Southern girls and preppy women everywhere.

Bethesda Row shoppers know that there is a Lilly Pulitzer Pink Palm boutique on Bethesda Lane.  Being a guy, I'd never even heard of Lilly Pulitzer, until the Pink Palm sculpture was erected on the sidewalk by Bethesda Lane.

This Sunday, May 6, from noon until 2:00 PM, DC area LP fanatics willing and able to fork over the hefty ticket price will enjoy not only the fashion show, but a special brunch prepared by the chef himself, a Bellini cocktail toast, a tasting of rose wines especially chosen for the summer season, a raffle ticket for a mystery Lilly gift, and a chance to purchase select Lilly summer pieces at a discount - before they are available to the public at The Pink Palm!  By the way, you're also supporting the wives and children of American soldiers, through the Thanks USA organization, which will benefit from your ticket purchase!

Order tickets online, and they will be $65 for adults, and $35 for those under 18.  Or you can pay $100 at the door on Sunday - if seats are still available.

It's certainly pricey, but a great event for Lilly aficionados, a Mother-Daughter brunch, or a chance to catch up with your sorority sisters while they're in town, etc., etc.

Get your tickets now, for a surprisingly rare event in downtown Bethesda - a fashion show.

Co2 Lounge, 7401 Woodmont Avenue. 301.654.8333.

The Pink Palm, 4867 Bethesda Avenue. 301.913.9191.