Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Rev Your Engine!

In existence since 1936, the Borg-Warner trophy is a work of art, featuring an intricate bas relief sculpture of every Indy 500 winner's likeness. 
It's May in Indianapolis - time for fast cars, Donald Davidson, and checkered flags!  In the past fifteen years, I've rarely missed the Indy 500, and you'll usually find me at Carb or Pole day, too.  But, I have to say I never thought I'd be kissing the famous yard of bricks at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway...in an evening gown, no less!

Yet, that's exactly where I found myself last weekend as we enjoyed the city's new hot ticket, Rev Indy, a fundraiser for the Methodist Health Foundation.  Held on the eve of the inaugural Grand Prix of Indianapolis, this sold out event behind the Pagoda on the grounds of the IMS was quite the spectacle as party-goers feasted on gourmet fare from nearly forty Indy restaurants while mingling with the drivers and dancing to bands playing on three separate stages.  If you're local, picture Zoobilation at the track and you know what it's all about.

VIP guests were also treated to a private performance by recording artist John McGlaughlin, access to the Pagoda, and an opportunity to get up close and personal with the famous Borg-Warner trophy, which is rarely outside its roped off enclosure in the Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.
Dress (Betsy & Adam, eBay); Shoes (Glint, Nordstrom); Ametrine and Diamond Ring (St. Maarten); Citrine Torsade (Ross Simons)
Black cocktail dresses and black and white ensembles were prominently on display, as were black and white checkered flag print ties, dresses, and vests. This is not surprising as ebony and ivory have long been the "official" color scheme for the month of May in Indy (I think I wore at least a week's worth of black and white ensembles in the days leading up to last year's race, some of which are featured in the links at the bottom of this post).  For this event, though, I opted for a riot of color, but still gave a nod to tradition with a hint of checkered flag in my dress and in my nail polish.
I'm obsessed with these chrome heeled, crystal encrusted shoes, and have to admit the desire to wear them played a big part in my choice of dress.  The forecast called for rain, which might have been disastrous for an outdoor-based event, especially in stilettos and a long dress, but the evening turned out beautifully.  Though it was a tad chilly toward the end of the night, a plethora of outdoor gas heaters kept guests warm as they roamed the grounds and took in a magnificent fireworks display.  Kudos to all of my friends on the planning committee for creating a memorable experience and raising critical funds for an important cause.  I can't wait for Rev Indy 2015!
Clockwise, from top left:  Rev-branded bracelets grant access to special areas; Preparing for my close encounter with the yard of bricks; Just one example of the myriad of gorgeous gourmet fare; Celebrity Chefs Vic Vegas and Spike Mendelsohn; John McGlaughlin's intimate performance thrilled guests in the VIP tent.
Fashion is what you buy; Style is what you do with it!

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2 comments:

  1. I love everything about your outfit!!! Wish I could find stuff like yours here in Delaware.

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    1. Thanks, Kish! Never rule out eBay as a resource - some of my favorite pieces have been bargain finds from all over the country!

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