"April hath put a spirit of youth in everything." – William Shakespeare
Spring in Allendale is a time of renewal, celebration, and giving back—something the Allendale Woman’s Club exemplifies year after year. This past April, the club hosted its highly anticipated annual fashion show, “Paws for Fashion,” bringing the community together for an evening of style and philanthropy.
A Fixture of Support and Fellowship
Since 1918, the Allendale Woman’s Club has been a cornerstone of the community, fostering friendships and supporting local causes through volunteerism and fundraising. “The Allendale Woman’s Club supports local and regional organizations, hosts community events, and provides scholarships, continuing a century-long tradition of women working together for positive impact and camaraderie,” says Laura Dinoia, co-president of the club.
The fashion show is the organization’s primary fundraiser and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years. This year marked the 20th anniversary of the event, with proceeds benefiting the Ramapo-Bergen Animal Rescue, Inc. (RBARI), a no-kill animal shelter dedicated to rescuing and rehoming homeless pets. Each year, the theme and beneficiary of the show change, uniting the community through style and philanthropy. For example, last year’s show, benefiting Family for Families, was themed “Families for Fashion.” Previous beneficiaries have included Oasis and Best Buddies.
Worth noting is that a significant portion of the funds raised also provides award contributions to various charities through the club's Community Improvement Program, which annually supports local causes.
An Evening of Style and Celebration
Seen by many as a way to welcome spring, the event was a night to remember. Attendees enjoyed a cocktail hour, dinner, live DJ, dancing, a photo booth, and a silent auction. The highlight of the evening was the runway show, featuring a diverse collection of styles modeled by club members.
“Our models showcased everything from casual everyday wear to professional outfits, reflecting the evolving trends in fashion,” Dinoia says. “It was a night filled with energy, fun, and a shared commitment to supporting a great cause.”
The event also offered attendees the exciting opportunity to win beautiful gift baskets, adding to the anticipation and enjoyment of the show.
The success of the evening would not have been possible without the generosity of local businesses and community members. “We had over 300 attendees, and the overwhelming support from the community—through sponsorships, program advertisements, and donations—helped us create incredible gift baskets and auction items,” Dinoia explains.
Community Involvement Beyond the Runway
While the fashion show may be the club’s most glamorous event, it is just one of many ways the Allendale Woman’s Club gives back throughout the year. The club continues to support the community with seasonal fundraisers, including a Spring Plant Sale in May, a town-wide garage sale in October, and holiday poinsettia sales to spread cheer in December. Members also enjoy social activities like a book club and various educational programs.
The event’s fashion was provided by KD Boutique in Midland Park, with past providers including Cenia in Ridgewood and Fig Leaf in Rochelle Park.
“We’re always looking for new members who share our passion for giving back and having fun,” Dinoia says. “Whether you’re interested in volunteering, fundraising, or simply meeting new people, we have something for everyone.” The club also has a very active social calendar for members, including dinners out at local restaurants, a book club, and immersive experiences such as dance classes, historical tours, and craft projects. This robust social calendar allows members to build strong friendships while enjoying a wide variety of activities.
As spring continues and new opportunities for community involvement arise, the Allendale Woman’s Club remains a beacon of connection, service, and joy.
The Allendale Woman’s Club is dedicated to making a difference in the community through volunteerism, fundraising, and social events. Whether you’re looking to support local charities, connect with like-minded women, or participate in fun and meaningful activities, there’s a place for you in the club!
For more information on upcoming events, membership opportunities, or ways to contribute, visit allendalewomans.club.