Alison Strassner Whelehan, 31, enjoys fashion, but it’s never been a consuming passion. In fact, she approaches the subject very practically.

“I like to get a lot of classic pieces that will last a long time, and I’m a bargain shopper. So as I walk into a store, I beeline it to the sale section,” the Campbell & Company marketing coordinator said.

Even the gown Whelehan wore to the “25th Anniversary Man & Woman of the Year Gala” was a practical choice.

“I got it about three years ago for a black-tie New Year’s Eve wedding we went to in Newport, R.I. I was looking for a classic dress under $150,” said the Locust Point resident.

The gown’s red color — which was the signature color of the event — was especially appropriate for Whelehan, who was one of the seven candidates competing for the Man & Woman of the Year titles this year. She entered the fundraising race to honor a cousin who had died of cancer last year, but — in the process — found something she did feel passionate about.

HER ENSEMBLE: Red jersey gown with red lace insets and Lulu Townsend gold and silver glitter strappy heels from amazon.com. Urban Expressions black clutch from South Moon Under. Rhinestone earrings from Ina’s Jewelry & Accessories. Michele watch that was a gift. Silver bangles from The Store Ltd. Wrist corsage attached to a black crystal cuff from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.