Innisfail seniors strutted their fashion sense at the Royal Canadian Legion for the first annual ‘Step into Spring' and brought in the season with joy and enthusiasm.
Innisfail's Family Community Support Services (FCSS) and the Seniors Drop In Centre worked together to present an evening of fashion for the 50 + group in Innisfail held from 7 to 9 p.m. on April 1 at the Royal Canadian Legion. Close to 200 community members 50 + attended and enjoyed the energetic evening.
Jean Bennett, Innisfail Senior Drop In Society publicity chair and FCSS coordinator, said the models were excited to get all “dressed up” to show off their new fashion sense.
And they did.
The 18 women and six men who either modeled clothing or served as escorts were dressed to the ‘nines' for the evening.
“I haven't modeled for a long time,” said senior Mary Voelker. “It was a lot of fun.”
Fashion show emcee Tammy Oliver-McCurdie gave the introductions for the evening and then handed it over to Josie Viola who called the models on stage for their runway presentation for most of the night.
Jean Ford, of the ‘Glenny Gals' (Red Hat society), had fun with her girls.
“We always have fun, but it was good to see so many senior guys and girls strutting their stuff,” said Ford.
The evening showcased fashion from local businesses such as reFind from Olds, Red Apple, Classic Touch, Leg Man, the Salvation Army (Innisfail), and the Bowden Thrift Store, said Sharron Matthewman, FCSS community facilitator who also led an impromptu aerobics session at the midpoint of the fashion show. “I didn't know if people would participate, and everyone seemed to stretch, wave, bend, and shrug for at least a few minutes.”
She added you don't have to spend a lot to look good, noting you can buy good quality clothing from thrift and consignment stores all the way to higher end retail stores.
“Just because you are a senior, it doesn't mean that you can't dress stylishly. We express ourselves through our own unique personality, our youthfulness in mind and spirit, style and creativity,” said Matthewman, who added the “feel-good factor” is a huge boost to people's well-being.
A senior's life can be tough with everything age can bring, she added, while also noting “feeling good” puts a spring in your step.
“This was our first fashion show and we were all excited and it went very well,” said Bennett. “Our sponsors were generous with their time, clothing, and expertise and helped us prepare for the event. We are thankful to the community for their support. “
