A ‘Dreamgirls’ auction for charity

It was a musical. It was a costume drama. It was “Dreamgirls,” and the movie’s swanky, ‘60s costumes were eye candy to vintage aficionados and costume collectors. They also were good enough to nab costume designer Sharen Davis an Academy Award nomination.

Now, just in time for the DVD release, some of the costumes are on auction for a good cause. Variety, the Children’s Charity, is holding an online auction of three lots from the hit movie. The charity is a nationwide organization (not affiliated with the entertainment industry trade magazine) dedicated to assisting addicted, abused and physically challenged children throughout Southern California.

The hot item is a group of three sleeveless, silk dresses worn by Beyoncé Knowles, Anika Noni Rose and Jennifer Hudson. The pleated, peach-colored gowns had already earned a $2,822.99 bid by Tuesday afternoon. But the price could go up, up, up from there by the time the auction closes at 5 p.m. May 8. Another item, Eddie Murphy’s shimmery tuxedo, had already hit $600. The auction, the first of any items from “Dreamgirls,” also includes an autographed movie poster. It’s already been bid up to $660.

The auction is being hosted at stores.ebay.com/Variety-The-Childrens-Charity.