Yvonne LaFleur'65 Named 2017 Alumna of the Year

Yvonne LaFleur has been named the 2017 Alumna of the Year of Cabrini High School.

The internationally acclaimed fashion designer graduated from the historic high school in 1965 and matriculated to Louisiana State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Fashion Merchandising. Following her graduation she began her career in design and merchandising that spans more than 40 years.

At 22 years old and directly out of college, she opened a retail store in what is her location today. Her store specialized in jeans hand-altered to fit perfectly. Today she is chief executive officer of Yvonne LaFleur/New Orleans and predecessor companies. That small boutique now is known around the world as a shop fitting women’s fashion needs including lingerie, dresses, hats, a legendary bridal department, and a signature fragrance line. Everything Yvonne LaFleur is rich in timeless style and quality.

But she has accomplished her climb to the top of an extremely competitive business with compassion and grace. She has been quoted as saying that her mother told her to "Think best and be best." She recalls that she graduated from Cabrini High School "where I was taught by the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (the religious order founded by Saint Francis Xavier Cabrini). They were very family oriented, but they were also very strict," she has been quoted. "The words 'can't' and 'forgot' where not in their vocabulary." She carries that education with her today as her shopping bags and store decor are covered with violets, the flower associated with Mother Cabrini.

Her career has brought her accolades such the Amita award for business; the Small Business Association award; New Orleans Magazine Fashion Gala Honoree, and more.

Her fashions can be seen at high-end events around the world including Mardi Gras reviewing stands and in motion pictures. Her gowns and her hats are renowned for their style and taste.

She is married and the mother of seven children. In naming her Alumna of the Year, it was said:

"In everything she does, both in her personal life, as well as her professional life, Yvonne continues to exemplify excellence, service, leadership, and respect. She is a Christian, kindhearted woman and serves her family, the Cabrini community, and the community at large. She is a strong, Catholic, successful, yet humble, woman who has proven herself as a role model and a wonderful representative of Cabrini High School and its ideals and mission."