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With glowing hearts: Leone's, the upscale designer clothing store, was packed with socialites and fashionistas decked in high fashion and high heels for the city's first dress up affair post Olympics.

Celebrating spring with fashion and wine, 150 well-heeled and well-dressed gala-goers attended Women United in Philanthropy's exclusive invitation-only shopping extravaganza and fashion show held in support of the United Way. Chair Catherine Van Alstine, La Stella Winery's Saeedah Salem, broadcaster Pamela Martin and fashion maven Christie King fronted the red carpet runway romp.

Prior to models hitting the catwalk, attendees loosened their wallets and feverishly shopped with partial proceeds from purchases going to charity.

Money raised by members of Women United in Philanthropy support programs and services for vulnerable children entering kindergarten. Over $20,000 was raised for the United Way's First Steps program.

Participants represent some of the Lower Mainland's most vulnerable children - refugees who have recently arrived in Canada and have overcome incredible challenges to start a new and better life. The money will help kids make the transition to life and school in Canada. Officially launched in 2008, First Steps operates at two sites in Surrey.

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Hear Fred Monday morning on CBC Radio One's The Early Edition AM690 and 88.1FM; Email Fred at yvrflee@hotmail.com; Follow Fred on Twitter: @FredAboutTown.