You've heard me mention Joy Bianchi (left) a couple times now. She's the ultimate San Francisco socialite, and someone I hope to be half as fabulous as when I'm her age. She's invited to every glamorous event and dressed to the nines in unique frocks — her designer of choice is Ralph Rucci — but Joy has a generous philanthropic side as well. She runs Helpers of the Mentally Retarded and owns a boutique whose proceeds benefit the organization.

Imagine my joy (pun!) when I was invited to the opening of Helpers House of Couture, an invite-only event that sold couture dresses, designer shoes, hats, and jewels galore — some Joy's, and most donated by upper-crust ladies. I felt like a kid let loose in a candy store, only this candy store had two floors and six rooms stuffed with fashion fabulousness. If money wasn't an object, I would have bought the house and everything under its roof. I did end up scoring two amazing necklaces that I think Kate Moss would be envious of.

To go behind the seams and to see what I scored, read more.