Gina Lollobrigida reached grande dame status at this moment

This was the exact moment that Gina Lollobrigida moved up from "beloved former Italian movie star" to grande dame of entertainment status. Her ability to wear that outfit, and absolutely pull it off, sealed the deal. The occasion was the 33rd Annual National Italian American Gala, held at the Hilton Hotel in Washington DC. The date was October 18, 2008, in the year that Gina Lollobrigida turned 81.