By Holly Pistas
After six years of silence, the Catwalk for Water returned in full force this year—and what a comeback it was! Organized with heart, creativity, and a deep commitment to the environment, the event held by the Gordon Salon team proved to be more than just a fashion show. It was a bold celebration of sustainability, artistry, and community spirit.
Reigniting a Legacy of Environmental Passion
For nearly two decades, working with Gordon Salon has been more than just a career—it’s been a journey rooted in purpose. Nineteen years ago, a spark for environmental leadership was ignited, and it has been burning ever since. That passion has taken many forms, but perhaps none more impactful than Catwalk for Water. Partnering with the Alliance for the Great Lakes, this initiative became a way to give back to the planet while bringing together like-minded individuals who share a love for sustainability and positive change.
For eight years, this event grew steadily, building momentum, attracting creative minds, and fostering a strong sense of community. But when 2020 hit, like many other things, the event had to pause. It was a tough blow. The energy and rhythm built over the years seemed to vanish overnight.
Fast-forward to 2025: Catwalk for Water made its triumphant return, and it was bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever.
The Show: Eco-Couture Meets Creative Brilliance
This year’s event featured 16 jaw-dropping looks—all designed and crafted from upcycled and recycled materials. Artists and community members poured their talent and ingenuity into garments made from Styrofoam cups, plastic utensils, aluminum cans, cardboard packaging, bed sheets, fabric scraps, and more.
The stage came alive with eight stunning models, each embodying the vision and purpose of the event. Their runway walks showcased not just fashion but the power of reimagining waste as wearable art. The creativity on display was both awe-inspiring and thought-provoking.
Hair and makeup were nothing short of spectacular. The artistry and attention to detail brought each look to life and elevated the entire show into an immersive, high-energy experience that wowed everyone in attendance.
Community, Celebration, and Collective Impact
Catwalk for Water wasn’t just about the runway. Guests mingled, danced, indulged in delicious food and drinks, and unwound in a serene spa activation area. The atmosphere was joyful and relaxed, but also deeply connected to a higher purpose.
One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was the community art installation. Guests were invited to write down their environmental commitments and leave a hand-stamped mark on a beautiful canvas—a powerful reminder that every individual has a role in protecting the planet.
Gratitude to Our Generous Supporters
A heartfelt thank you goes out to our amazing sponsors, without whom this unforgettable evening would not have been possible:
- Fields BMW of Northfield
- Reva Events
- Summer House Santa Monica
- Aveda
- Christian Diaz, for capturing the magic through video and photography
We’re also deeply grateful to all the donors who contributed delicious food and beverage offerings, and to those who curated incredible silent auction items that kept the energy high and the bids rolling in.
This event would not have been where it is today without the support of Pam and Tony Gordon. I’m so grateful to them for creating such a supportive and collaborative space to allow this project to grow over the years! It’s become something really beautiful that I am very proud of.
Almost $10,000 Raised for the Alliance for the Great Lakes
Thanks to the collective efforts of everyone involved—from organizers to sponsors to attendees—we raised Almost $10,000 for the Alliance for the Great Lakes. This milestone is a huge accomplishment, especially for our first year back after such a long hiatus. It speaks volumes about the passion, generosity, and dedication of this community.
Looking Ahead
Catwalk for Water 2025 was more than a comeback—it was a statement. It reminded us all why we started and how powerful we can be when we come together. With a renewed sense of momentum and a community that continues to rally behind sustainability, the future looks bright.
Now, it’s time to take a short breather… but don’t get too comfortable. Planning for Catwalk for Water 2026 is just around the corner—and trust us, you won’t want to miss it.
