2026 Couture for a Cure

Fashion, science, hope and progress come together at the 21st annual Couture for a Cure, a glamorous celebration of Van Andel Institute’s 30th anniversary. Celebrate three decades of science and education initiatives while delving into the latest fashion on Oct. 8 at VAI.

Co-hosts Carol Van Andel and Rebecca Wierda will guide you through the trendiest fabrics, styles and outfits, curated by the luxury specialists at Leigh’s. The evening will also feature an exclusive Hellessy fashion presentation from this year’s featured designer, Sylvie Millstein. Millstein designs with a singular muse in mind: the modern woman on the go. Hellessy embodies a refined, laid-back glamour that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Known for sculptural silhouettes, compelling color stories, signature adorned denim and draped blouses with seductive necklines, each collection delivers core yet distinctive pieces — future classics that exude quiet confidence.

Alongside the fashion presentation, guests will enjoy a strolling cocktail hour, seated dinner, a chance auction and live entertainment from DJ AB. Exclusive items from Artistry will be available throughout the evening.

Suggested attire for the evening is cocktail attire.

Complimentary valet parking at the main entrance.

Registration coming soon.

Founded in 2012 from her Soho studio, Hellessy is the vision of Paris-born designer Sylvie Millstein. Raised in France, Millstein’s passion for fashion began as a teenager leafing through the pages of French Vogue. Determined to one day work for Chanel and inspired by her Japanese heritage, she attended business school in France before moving to Japan, where she realized her ambition by becoming a Buying Manager at Chanel.

After more than a decade as a Senior Merchant working with esteemed institutions including Chanel, Givenchy, and Harrods across Europe and Japan, Millstein relocated to New York City with her family. Her deep understanding of the luxury womenswear space laid the groundwork for her own label.

The brand’s name is deeply personal—derived from the first syllables of her two eldest sons’ names, Hendrix and Lennox, along with her own.

Millstein designs with a singular muse in mind: the modern woman on the go. Hellessy embodies a refined, laid-back glamour that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Known for sculptural silhouettes, compelling color stories, signature adorned denim, and draped blouses with seductive necklines, each collection delivers core yet distinctive pieces—future classics that exude quiet confidence. Unexpected details, from tattooed lace accents to ribbon applications, allow for versatility and individuality season after season.

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel — Bed, Bottle & Beef
Enjoy dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, a bottle of premium wine and an overnight stay at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.
Value: $500

Custom Style Experience With Leigh’s
Leigh’s will treat you and three friends to an exclusive in-store experience. Start off with makeup artists who will pamper you with a skincare consultation and makeup application as you enjoy refreshments. Next, you will meet with one of Leigh’s buyers for a private overview of the season’s hottest trends and see how they can be incorporated into your own personal style. Leigh’s has generously included four $100 gift cards so your group can shop to your heart’s content! Best of all, 10% of what you spend will benefit Van Andel Institute!
Value: $1,500

Private Shopping at Dime & Regal
We’re opening the Dime & Regal Showroom just for you! Enjoy a private jewelry shopping experience complete with snacks, champagne and $1,000 to spend at our shop. Make it a solo adventure or enjoy the experience with a friend.

Dime & Regal is a women-owned and operated jewelry shop located on Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids. Our store offers a curated collection of fine jewelry, including necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets from 18 independent and local artists. We also offer custom design services for custom engagement rings, wedding bands and other custom jewelry projects.
Value: $1,500