"If you want to get ahead, get a hat.” New Canaan’s L’Armoire boutique is taking the catchphrase to a new style level by hosting a Derby-themed fundraiser for New Canaan Mounted Troop (NCMT) on April 28 from 6-8pm.

Owner Diane Roth, who is a keen equestrian, is encouraging party guests to dress up “Derby-style” and has invited New York-based milliner Ellen Christine to show off her spring/summer collection. Also joining in the fun will be makeup artist to the stars, Kevin James Bennett, a multiple Emmy-award winner with over three decades of makeup experience. Enjoy light bites by Gates, drinks by Broken Shed Vodka and special prizes. Beval Saddlery of New Canaan is supporting the event, and will raffle off a gift basket to benefit NCMT that night

L’Armoire will also be donating 10 percent of all sales between April 28 and April 30 to benefit NCMT.

Celebrating its 76th year, NCMT is a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive educational full horsemanship and equine care programs for youth in Fairfield County.  In 2012, NCMT launched the Super Troopers Therapeutic Program to serve children and adults with special needs. Last fall, over 40 adults and children with special needs experienced equine care and adaptive riding programs.

“New Canaan Mounted Troop is grateful and excited for the Derby-themed cocktail party at L’Armoire…Since all of our horses and ponies are donated, fundraisers such as this help us achieve our mission of enriching the lives of youth and individuals with special needs by giving these animals a second chance,” says Sara Tucker, NCMT’s executive director.

For further information or to attend the party, contact Rachel Lampen at [email protected] or call 203-970-8432. Location: L’Armoire, 102 Park St, New Canaan.