The word couture gets bandied about all too often these days, to the point that it sometimes seems as if anyone who touches a sewing machine feels it within reason to describe the resulting garments as such. So it’s always refreshing to see a local effort that not only uses the word as it was intended – to describe well-crafted apparel made entirely by hand – but does so in the name of a good cause.

Friday’s Spring into Fall Couture Fashion Show brings Bay Area designers together for a runway show of garments that are custom, made by hand and entirely one-of-a-kind. Proceeds benefit the Coral Reef Alliance and its programs protecting coral reefs around the world.

That the evening’s designer line-up is a diverse one makes the event all the more intriguing. It’s a rare chance to see the British-inspired silhouettes of Sara Shepherd, whose high-end women’s apparel is sold in San Francisco stores such as Eco Citizen. Those seeking special occasion looks from local sources will find dramatic gowns on display by Rebecca Bruce, as well as event-worthy baubles by jewelry designer Amber Marie Bently. Haute undergarments by Dark Garden Unique Corsetry and wearable art from Gelareh Alam are among the edgier offerings slated to hit the runway. Additional designers include Miss G Designs, Sequoia & Gita, Kailia Footwear and Dollymop Designs.

Another draw: the show takes place in the always-fun-to-party-inside Bently Reserve, and we hear the cocktails will be flowing throughout the evening instead of stopping before the runway show, as is often the case.

The cheapest tickets are already gone, but you can still buy your way into the choicest rows.

Spring into Fall, Fri., 7-10 pm. Tickets, $20 and up.