A fresh take on many throwback fashions complemented this year's Cole County Historical Society Fashion Show & Luncheon theme - "Timeless Elegance" - with runway styles showcased Monday afternoon at Capitol Plaza Hotel in Jefferson City.
Twenty-two models - including newcomers and returning favorites such as Mayor Carrie Tergin, Bernadette Miller and Joan Firley - strutted down the catwalk showcasing a variety of pieces from Saffees that ranged from evening gowns and dresses to leggings, denim and bomber jackets. As in years past, mother and daughter Judy Howard and Michelle Hataway, both of Saffees, coordinated the fashion show and asked models to visit each table after their time on the runway, describing their outfits and giving guests an up-close look.
While the fashions were inspired by "timeless elegance," the event's theme derived from donated tea sets, many which were up for bid during the live auction.
Vicky Myers, Cole County Historical Society board member and event co-organizer, said Saffees employee Wanda McCampbell, and her husband, Russ, are antique collectors. They donated 21 teapot sets, with 15 featured in the live auction and the remainder included in the silent auction.
"It is reflective of tea time that of course is a historical event that occurred in people's homes over the years," Myers said. "(The McCampbells) were responsible for collecting all of the items and putting the settings together, for which we are very grateful."
Many settings offered a teapot, cups, saucers and plates. Several included matching tablecloths, candle holders and decorative pieces that matched the setting's theme, such as a framed postcard of Queen Elizabeth II for "Royal Tea Time" or a frosted Fenton glass cat and teapot lamp for "It's a Purrfect Time for Tea."
With more than 200 guests in attendance, the event raised about $12,000 - less than the Cole County Historical Society's $20,000 goal. Myers said they anticipate some additional funds could still stream from the event this week. Proceeds will go toward the continued operations of the society's museum.
Guests were also able to take one of 100 teddy bears in exchange for a freewill offering, another new activity at this year's event.
The Cole County Historical Society dedicated this year's live auction to Lorraine Adkins, Susie Barrett and Betty Weber, noting several women who were inspirational leaders for the society had recently passed.
Myers said she and her fellow event committee members appreciated the help of its 20-plus volunteers; show sponsors Saffees, American Shoe and Superhair; and patron sponsors Blue Diamond, Central Bank, Joe Machens Capital City and state Sen. Mike Kehoe. She feels the society's largest fundraiser continues to grow because of the community's desire to support the society and enjoyment at a fun, stylish event.
"It is a great way to come together, enjoy good food, partake in some competitive bidding, socialize and support a good local cause," she said.
To read about the fashions on display at this year's show, see the News Tribune's Style section this Sunday.