THE LEGACY OF ELSIE

From Cartagena to Naples — a timeless story of fashion, purpose, and the power of women to change the world with love.

Before Naples knew her as the creative force behind Elsie in Naples, Elsie Lucila Méndez was already a household name in Cartagena, Colombia — a pioneering woman whose elegance, intelligence, and leadership reshaped how her city saw fashion, community, and the power of women working together.In the mid-1980s, Cartagena was undergoing a renaissance — a city of rich history and Caribbean charm looking toward the future.

It was in this moment that Elsie, along with a group of visionary women, created the movement “A Cartagena con Amor” (For Cartagena With Love), an initiative that united civic pride, culture, fashion, and philanthropy. The group, made up of young professional executives, sought to elevate their city through creativity, collaboration, and compassion.

“These were women,” wrote journalist María Victoria Zúñiga in El Universal, “who, despite their professional and personal responsibilities, still found time to give back to their community — to offer more of themselves and make Cartagena a kinder, more beautiful place.”

Among them were leaders in banking, media, hospitality, and the arts — all driven by a shared belief that progress must include purpose. Their efforts culminated in a spectacular event that would become part of Cartagena’s cultural history: La Noche Blanca (The White Night).

A Night in White: History Meets Elegance

On a moonlit evening in 1986, the historic fortress of San Sebastián del Pastelillo was transformed into a glowing sea of white. Under the stars, dozens of models walked the ramp dressed entirely in white, symbolizing purity, unity, and a fresh vision for their beloved city.

The show, directed by Aurita del Mar and produced by Elsie Lucila Méndez, was unlike anything Cartagena had ever seen. The fortress walls illuminated the silhouettes of flowing garments, airy linens, and ethereal textures that moved gracefully against the night sky. Every element, from the lighting to the choreography, was meticulously designed to celebrate the spirit of Cartagena.

“The pure white against the dark sky left an unforgettable impression,” reported El Universal. “The event marked not just the launch of a campaign, but a moment of pride — a declaration of love for the city and its people.”

The evening was attended by government officials, artists, and local dignitaries, including Governor Arturo Matson, his wife Neila, and Secretary General Eduardo Méndez Villarreal. The event’s proceeds were donated entirely to children with disabilities, through local organizations supported by Cartagena con Amor.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team worked tirelessly. Makeup artists Rebeca and Rosa Elena Núñez began their preparations before dawn. Cameramen, stylists, and volunteers collaborated with passion and precision. Their shared goal: to give Cartagena a show that was not only stylish, but meaningful.

Fashion With a Purpose
Every detail of La Noche Blanca reflected a greater mission — that fashion could be more than beauty; it could be a bridge. For Elsie and her fellow executives, the event was not about glamour for its own sake, but about using creativity to serve others and give back.

“In this little walled city,” the article read, “they dedicate themselves to helping those in need — those who, each day, seek compassion from people who, with one simple gesture of humanity, can bring relief and hope.”

Their commitment was both practical and poetic — a fusion of civic engagement and artistic expression that became the heartbeat of Cartagena’s cultural awakening in the 1980s.

A Movement That Endures

El Universal described A Cartagena con Amor as a project deserving of “the unconditional support of both government institutions and private enterprises.” It wasn’t just an event — it was a philosophy: that when women come together, they can uplift an entire city. Unstoppable women.
Decades later, that same spirit lives on in Elsie in Naples. The shows, community events, and philanthropic initiatives that Elsie leads today — from “Beyond the Runway” to “Styled With Love” supporting The Shelter for Abused Women and Children — are an elegant continuation of the mission she began in Cartagena: blending style, generosity, and heart into every experience. What began as “A Night in White” has evolved into a lifetime dedicated to light — inspiring women to stand tall, feel beautiful, and give back with grace.

“Style with love. Empower with grace. Give back with heart.”
— Elsie Lucila Méndez