Cancer Community & Giving

October 31, 2024

Chic Awearness surpasses $1 million for ovarian cancer research and patient support 

Founded by Marci Houff, the event supports ovarian cancer research at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center and patient support initiatives.

Rock legend and Chic Awearness supporter George Thorogood auctioned off a guitar. (photo by Erin O. Smith)
The Chic Awearness board poses for a photo at the event. (photo by Erin O. Smith)

The 11th Annual Chic Awearness fashion show and gala has surpassed the $1 million mark in total fundraising since the event’s inception. 

The 2024 gala, which was held Sept. 20, raised more than $285,000. 

Founded by Marci Houff, the event supports ovarian cancer research at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center and patient support initiatives. Chic Awearness is currently funding two ovarian cancer research programs and providing matching funds for a social worker to coordinate Woman to Woman, a mentoring program for women undergoing treatment.

The event has grown into a premier gala held at Nashville’s finest venues since it was first held more than a decade ago in a hair salon with shampoo bowls improvising as champagne chillers.

Knowing firsthand how devastating a cancer diagnosis can be, Houff and the Chic Awearness Board created an event that is inspiring, positive and fun.