Models strutted down the center stage in the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts Thursday afternoon for Warsaw’s first Goodwill Little Black Dress event to raise funds to support both of their missions.
The afternoon was filled with a silent auction, browsing racks of women and men’s clothing, designer handbags and jewlery and shopping before and the after the show at the boutique, with refreshments provided by Our Father’s House.
Susan Handel and Pat Ellis have been long-time friends and decided to attend the event for the first time together. With arms full of clothing, the duo was finding good deals on various clothing from Goodwill. They said the Little Black Dress event is a great opportunity to pull the different organizations together for a wonderful cause. They also said this was the perfect excuse to spend an afternoon together without their husbands.
“We need girlfriend days,” Handel said.
Ruth-Una Paige used the event to find clothes that fit her and spend the day with her daughter Lynn Howie. Howie said her mother dresses head-to-toe in Goodwill clothing.
Each model walked the runway in three different looks. Twenty-two Goodwill stores in surrounding areas provided all of the clothing.
Fashion show producer, wardrobe stylist and image consultant Kathy Friend and WSB-TV morning anchor Leanne Tokars emceed the event, describing each outfit as the models emulated Tyra Banks. The models were styled with different trends including 70’s inspired, bohemian, leather, tweed and fur. They also wore name brands including Gucci, Michael Kors, Ann Taylor, H&M, Louis Vuitton, Juicy Couture, Lands End, Jimmy Choo, J. Crew, Kate Spade and many more.
Tokars noted that these designer brands are not found near the Warsaw and Michiana areas, but they can be found in local Goodwill locations. The models walked the runway one last time in the notorious little black dress. Friend said fashion designer Coco Chanel introduced the little black dress and over the years this dress has transcended as the one thing everyone needs in their closets.
WAWC-FM/Willie 103.5 news director Terry Armstrong and WSB-TV meteorologist Matt Rudkin were the celebrity models throughout the show. Armstrong said she is more accustomed to wearing pajamas because she starts her workday at 3:45 a.m.
“Thank you for making me dress like a girl today,” she said. “I love it.”
The audience was able to participate in the “Who Wore it Best” segment of the show with surprise guest models. Mayor Joe Thallemer walked the runway in his athletic ensemble, followed by Warsaw Schools Superintendent Dr. David Hoffert wearing his Jimmy Buffet and island-inspired garments, and finally WSB-TV weatherman Matt Rudkin was styled as a cowboy on his steed.
The audience cast their vote by donating $1 to their favorite look. All of the donations collected supports the missions of Goodwill and Wagon Wheel.
President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Michiana Debie Coble said the next Little Black Dress fashion show is Oct. 15 at the Avalon Manor in Merrillville. She said planning for next year’s show in Warsaw is already underway.
Development Director For Wagon Wheel Center of the Arts Julie Parke said they are reviewing everything that was successful with this year’s show to plan for next year. She said they want to offer an event at a time when the most people can participate.
“I think the opportunity to partner with Goodwill is a new collaboration with us and it’s exciting,” Parke said. “I think anytime people come and learn about the Wagon Wheel, it advances access to the arts. We’re excited about the day.”
Coble said the audience at this year’s show need to spread the word as ambassadors for next year’s event.
“Because you were here today, you are a part of Goodwill’s mission,” Coble said.
(Story By The Times Union)
