Couture for a Cure 2025

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of fashion, science, and philanthropy as Couture for a Cure celebrates its 20th anniversary on Oct. 9, at Van Andel Institute.

Co-hosts Carol Van Andel and Rebecca Wierda invite you to view the newest fashion trends from the luxury specialists at Leigh’s, along with a unique program commemorating 20 years of merging the runway with research. Artistry will bring the latest in makeup, showcasing modern, stunning looks.

The evening will feature an exclusive presentation from this year’s featured designer, Max Alexander. Born in 2016, Alexander holds the Guinness World Record for youngest runway fashion designer. In 2020, he announced to his family that he was a dressmaker, and after polishing his design, draping, and sewing skills, launched his own label: Couture to the Max.

Couture to the Max is a youthful and trendsetting label focused on highlighting the female form. In addition to dresses, Alexander’s new work includes couture scarves, blankets, kimonos and jackets. Alexander’s inspiration remains, with a goal of “making all women, of all sizes and shapes, feel beautiful.”

Along with stunning fashion, enjoy a strolling cocktail hour, a chance auction and live entertainment from DJ AB. Guests will receive exclusive gift bags featuring a Leigh’s gift card and exclusive items from Artistry and event sponsors.

Suggested attire for the evening is cocktail attire. Complimentary valet parking at the main entrance.

Max Alexander holds the Guinness World Record for the Youngest Runway Fashion Designer in the World and has captivated audiences worldwide as a social media sensation. Born in 2016 in LosAngeles, California, to a Canadian father and an American mother, Max declared at just four years old that he was a dressmaker. He quickly learned to sew, completed over fifty dresses, staged his first runway show, and launched his brand, Couture to the Max.

Since then, Max has designed commissioned pieces for a global and celebrity clientele, including clients in Germany, France, Mexico, Brazil, and the United States. His creations have been worn by Hollywood icons such as Sharon Stone and Debra Messing. Expanding beyond dresses, his line now features couture suits, scarves, bathing suits, and jackets.

Max is passionate about sustainability and has become increasingly focused on the environmental impact of fast fashion. He advocates for reusing materials and incorporating sustainable fabrics into his designs. In 2024, he spoke at the United Nations, urging designers and industry leaders to embrace more eco-conscious practices. His latest collection is crafted entirely from recycled coffee bean bags, which he hand-dyed using natural pigments.

As Max grows, so does his dedication to fashion, sewing, philanthropy and haute couture. Currently in third grade, he balances school with his career and is already saving for his first apartment in New York City.