The 37th annual Soroptimist style show, luncheon and silent auction Thursday, Oct. 7, will usher in fall with fresh trends like ruffles, “jeggings” and lace. But it will also have a much deeper purpose — supporting service projects including GED education programs at Recovery House, a Lowndes County chemical dependency residential treatment center for women.
“Our patrons” support allows us to continue projects that benefit women, girls and children,” said event co-chair Vivian Yeatman. “At our show, a wonderful lunch will be served by Angie”s Catering, who is new to us this year, at more than 40 tables beautifully decorated by businesses from Columbus and Starkville.”
Featuring fashions by Mélange of Columbus and Tupelo, a vast silent auction and plenty of door prizes, the festive mid-day tradition at Trotter Convention Center opens with auction bidding from 11:15 a.m. to noon. The style show is from noon until 1 p.m.
Down the catwalk
“For fall this year, we”re seeing lots of ruffles and lace, really taking us back to a more feminine look,” said Mélange owner Deborah Gardner. “Purples and grays seem to be hot, as are leggings and ”jeggings” — jean-like leggings.
“We”re going to be showing all the fall colors,” continued Gardner. “Fall is always fall, of course, but they give it a little different twist, a different dye, each year.” Skirts are every length, and boots are big this season, in every height. Big, bold jewelry is still huge, as are animal prints.
Gardner went on to cite white blouses and the black shoe as very popular items this season. “And we”re seeing the shoes in metallic colors, too, like gold, bronze and silver. It”s about things that really turn your head; the wow factor is really playing a part in fashion.”
Keep your classics
At least 15 models will each show several outfits appealing to a wide age spectrum. Gardner said the collection won”t overlook the classic items that never go out of style.
“Fashion tells us that if you have great black pants and brown pants, you can update your wardrobe with some of the more trendy looks,” she remarked. “Just have fun … even if it”s something you haven”t worn before, try it this season ”cause you”ll love it.”
How to go
Tickets are $20 (a portion is tax-deductible) from any Soroptimist member, or at Mélange at 62 Brickerton St. in Columbus. For ticket information, contact Yeatman or Melinda Barr at 662-328-5387.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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