What to Wear to a Fundraiser: Styling Ideas for Benefit Gala Event

From the annual Baby2Baby Gala to to Selena Gomez’s Rare Impact Fund benefit, there’s no shortage of dazzling Hollywood events in the name of philanthropy, and it’s never been more important to be charitable. Whether you’re attending one of these star-studded give-back events, or you’re just as proud to support a local benefit, one question may cross your mind: what exactly do you wear to a fancy fundraiser?

For Gomez’s said event in 2023, celebrity stylist Erin Walsh dressed her client in two custom looks for the night: one silvery, floor-length Valentino gown that would be a dream to wear for a Club Renaissance-themed wedding, and one stunning purple couture dress by Rahul Mishra that transformed the star into a literal flower in bloom.

Although we don’t all have the means to turn up in custom couture, it still helps to take a styling note from stars at these galas, so we can mimic the vibe. We tapped Hollywood stylists Olivia Rose (the talent behind some of Shania Twain and JoAnna Garcia Swisher’s most iconic looks) and Danielle & Alix (known for dressing today’s top cool girls like Paige Desorbo, Alix Earle, Ellie Thumann) to help us round up some fundraiser-friendly women’s looks, including top picks you can buy online. Here’s what we recommend.

What to Wear to a Fundraiser: Styling Ideas for Benefit Gala Event

The Mannei Side-Slit Flared Trousers

$338.61 $776.24 56% off

Danielle & Alix, the stylists behind digital darlings like Alix Earle and Paige Desorbo, suggest to stand out in a suit — but just not any suit. “For a fundraiser event, you can’t go wrong in a suit,” they say. “We’ve had our eye on The Mannei’s Elijas oversized blazer with the split-hem trouser. It’s a great balance of stylish and sophisticated.”

This pick above has a higher waist and slight flare at the bottom (and it’s on sale for a limited time).

Alexandre Birman Ciara Crystals Sandal

$486 $695 30% off

Danielle & Alix suggest pairing your power suit with an equally eye-catching shoe. “We would definitely add in a standout shoe moment, especially for a red carpet photo,” they say. Our favorite are these Alexandre Birman heels. The pointed front, metallic sheen and crystal detailing really ties the look together.

A.L.C. Juliet Dress

$595

Inspired by Danielle & Alix’s love for suits, we suggest playing with the idea of a suit by wearing a blazer dress, like A.L.C.’s Juliet dress, featuring padded shoulders and a pleated partial skirt underlay. The top, meantime, draws details from classic men’s tuxedos: think pointed notch lapels, wide spread collar and flap pockets.

Norma Kamali Women’s Diana Gown

$250 $275 9% off

Angela Bassett wore a one-shoulder gown to the Elizabeth Taylor Ball but it’s not just celebrities who can pull off this figure-flattering look. Taking a note from Miss Bassett, we love Norma Kamali’s wallet-friendly Diana gown, featuring easy pull-on styling and attached bodysuit lining. The best part: the brand is now available on Amazon, so Prime members can score a discount and get free two-day shipping, perfect for last-minute dressing. We like the navy version above, but the dress is available in multiple colors (and multiple sizes) online.

House of Harlow 1960 x Revolve Maxime Maxi Dress

$194 $318 39% off

At the same Elizabeth Taylor benefit, reality star and fashion fave Christine Chiu wore a silvery dress with unique sleeves and draping. We’re going for a similar vibe but in a more accessible ivory shade here with House of Harlow’s Maxime maxi dress, featuring a hidden side zipper closure, adjustable shoulder straps and off-the-shoulder ruffle sleeves. It’s also still available in a light green colorway though the off-white color is probably more fundraiser appropriate.

Likely Kerry Gown

$450 $478 6% off

If you’re looking for a little bit more coverage, take a note from Sabrina Elba, who wore a long-sleeve Givenchy gown to the UN General Assembly Goalkeepers gala. We found something similar but with a bit of flare in Likely’s Kerry Gown, featuring long sleeves, a mock-neck with loop button closure, padded shoulders, and tonal sequin embellishments throughout.

Nookie Penelope Halter Gown

$369

For a halter moment, Zoe Kravitz wore a Saint Laurent halter gown at a Kering Foundation Caring For Women event. We’re eyeing Nookie’s Penelope halter gown, featuring a scooped cowl neckline, a hidden back zip closure, and a lightweight but lined satin fabric with pleated detail. This dress is made in Australia and available in two colors.

Blondie Nites Long Sleeve Velvet Dress

$149

Hollywood stylist Olivia Rose (clients include Shania Twain and JoAnna Garcia Swisher) has a stunning suggestion for anyone looking for an investment look that will never go out of style: a velvet dress similar to this one, from Nordstrom. According to Rose, this style of gown is “classic yet interesting with the criss-cross and sweetheart neckline [and] a velvet texture. The sheer sleeves also give the illusion of added gloves. “This detail makes the dress super versatile, chic and wearable for any occasion,” she says.

Sorrento Barrel Satchel 25

$228

You’ll want a classy bag to take to the fundraiser and we love this full-grain leather satchel from Dooney & Bourke. Inspired by vintage doctor’s bags, the carry-all has enough room for your makeup, phone, wallet, charger and (hopefully) a big check book. With the vegetable-tanned cowhide, you’ll have this bag for years to come and the leather will patina beautifully with age. The bag is also structured and simple enough for a night out but works for everyday errands too. Choose from more than a dozen colors online.

Alto Mini Tassel Crossbody

$425

Another chic option: this mini tassel crossbody, which is made exclusively for Dooney & Bourke with luxurious Vacchetta leather sourced from Tuscany. Choose to hold it as a top-handle purse or use the detachable strap to wear it as a crossbody. The bag has a practical snap closure, though the knotted detailing on the side adds a nice touch. Choose from three colors online.

Satin Cuff Bracelet in 14k Italian Yellow Gold

Top off your look with a statement piece of jewelry, like this cuff from Blue Nile. It’s crafted from 14k yellow gold with a soft shimmer that compliments an outfit without being ostentatious. The goal is to look presentable after all — not to steal focus. The size of the cuff and subtle hammered detailing make it incredibly versatile to wear with a gown, blouse, suit or on off-days with a simple T-shirt and jeans.

What to Wear to a Fundraiser: Hollywood Stylists Reveal How to Dress to Give Back In Style