Palm Beach’s social season delivered one of its most anticipated afternoons with the 27th Annual Old Bags Luncheon™, hosted at The Breakers Palm Beach. The signature event of Center for Family Services of Palm Beach County once again merged fashion and philanthropy, drawing a sold-out crowd in record time and building a waitlist that spoke volumes about its influence.
Now in its third decade, the Old Bags Luncheon™ has become far more than a stylish gathering. It serves as a major fundraising engine for mental health programs across Palm Beach County, where families continue to face economic strain, trauma, and widening disparities in access to care. Since 1961, the Center has provided essential social services, guided by the belief that healthy families are the foundation of strong communities.
Priscilla Presley in Conversation
This year’s celebrity speaker, Priscilla Presley, brought depth and elegance to the ballroom. In an engaging Q&A session, Presley shared reflections on her life, advocacy work, and the resilience required to navigate public and private challenges. Her presence elevated the afternoon, blending cultural history with a deeply personal perspective on purpose and philanthropy.
The IT Bag That Set a New Benchmark
A highlight of the luncheon remains the coveted annual IT Bag, and the 2026 edition made history. Designed by RobertJames and handcrafted in the United States by master artisans, the bag featured platinum-tone hardware and a refined silhouette that balanced modern versatility with timeless appeal. Its adaptable chain allowed for multiple styling options, from shoulder-length sophistication to an effortless crossbody.
When it reached the auction stage, the response was immediate. Competitive bidding pushed the final figure to a record-breaking total, marking the highest amount ever raised for an IT Bag in the event’s history. The proceeds directly support the Center’s expanding mental health initiatives.
A Who’s Who of Philanthropic Palm Beach
The ballroom reflected the strength of the community rallying behind the cause. Notable attendees included Lora Drasner, Marzia Precoda, James Norton, Robert Walden, Dr. Norman and Mia Rowe, Dr. Charles and Anna Pierce, Veronica Webb, Audrey Gruss, Ramona Singer, Lois Pope, Jean Shafiroff, Bobbi Brown, Aileen Carlucci, Terri Schottenstein, Diana Retzer, Barbara Pendrill, Theodora Pace, Karen Swanson, Sonja Stevens, Joan Yanow, and many other distinguished supporters.
The 2026 event was led by co-chairs Lora Drasner and Marzia Precoda. Barbara Pendrill and Theodora Pace served as silent auction co-chairs, Karen Swanson was Board Advisory Chair, and Sonja Stevens and Joan Yanow were honored as this year’s honorary chairs.
Fashion with Purpose
Sponsors and partners across Palm Beach’s philanthropic and business communities contributed to the luncheon’s success, reinforcing the event’s reputation as both a social highlight and a serious fundraising platform. With nearly one million dollars raised, the 27th Annual Old Bags Luncheon™ underscored the power of collective generosity.
In a season defined by elegance, the afternoon at The Breakers stood out not simply for its style, but for its impact. By uniting influence, fashion, and compassion, the Old Bags Luncheon™ once again affirmed its role as one of Palm Beach’s most meaningful charitable traditions.
