Fab Talk INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Dress for Success Indianapolis is helping women build confidence, make connections and create stronger futures, with a mission that goes far beyond what’s hanging in the closet. The organization is preparing for its annual Stepping Out in Style fundraiser Fri day, Sept. 25. The event is sold out, with about 1,300 people expected to attend. Patrick Bouquett, host of “Fab Talk,” joined Julie Petr, executive director of Dress for Success Indianapolis, and Akilah Darden, co-chair of Stepping Out in Style, on Life.Style.Live! to discuss the organization’s mission and the highly anticipated event. Dress for Success Indianapolis is known for providing professional clothing to women preparing to enter or re-enter the workforce. That includes everything from suits and shoes to purses and portfolios for job interviews. Once a woman lands a job, she can return for clothing appropriate for her new workplace. But Petr said the organization’s work doesn’t stop with professional attire. Dress for Success Indianapolis also helps women with resumes, job applications, LinkedIn profiles and mock interviews. Its ongoing professional development programs are designed to help women move from finding a job to advancing into better opportunities and long-term careers. Since 1999, Dress for Success Indianapolis has supported more than 21,000 women in Central Indiana. Stepping Out in Style is one of the organization’s biggest fundraisers, with organizers saying about 60% of its operating budget supporting women comes from the event. This year’s sold-out event will feature plenty of fashion and entertainment, including a fashion show featuring local designers. Guests can also enjoy a diamond dig, wine and a spirit pool, a raffle and vendors from the local community. For Darden, the event is about celebrating while supporting a cause. “Partying with the cause” is part of what makes the evening special, Darden said. Even though Stepping Out in Style is sold out, there are still plenty of ways for the community to support Dress for Success Indianapolis. The organization accepts financial donations, clothing donations and volunteers, including those interested in mentorship. Professional clothing and accessories can be donated during designated donation times at Dress for Success Indianapolis, located at 820 N. Meridian St. Participating dry cleaners throughout Indianapolis also accept clothing donations on behalf of Dress for Success, making it easier for people who can’t make it downtown. While this year’s Stepping Out in Style marks the event’s 24th year, organizers are already planning for a major milestone. The 2027 event will celebrate the 25th anniversary of Stepping Out in Style. Organizers plan to begin rolling out anniversary celebrations in January and continue them through next fall, although some details are being kept under wraps for now. For women recovering from hardship, returning to work, changing careers or simply ready to take their next step, Dress for Success Indianapolis provides resources, support and connections to help them move forward. Learn more about Dress for Success Indianapolis and find information about donations, volunteering and programs at indydfs.org. ...read more read less