Fashion then and now

We don't cover much fashion in the pages of the Southeast Missourian. Allow me to dedicate the next few paragraphs to it and to a good cause.

Pastimes Antiques is helping host a fashion show featuring new ways to wear old clothes. "Vintage Now" will benefit the Safe House for Women, a not-for-profit women's shelter that offers refuge to women in domestic abuse situations.

Pastimes occupies about four picture windows on Main Street, just south of Themis Street. The displays change with the holidays and can be anything from the current military man to daring choices for prom.

Deb Maevers has owned Pastimes for about seven years. Her collection of vintage clothing has spread to the adjacent building, but this marks the first time the stock has broken out of the store.

I've shopped there and at the other antique stores around town for novelty items -- a hat for the Kentucky Derby, something for an '80s-themed party. But Maevers said vintage clothing isn't just for the special occasions, it's relevant every day.

A full Jackie O-style suit wouldn't be worn today, but pairing the jacket with jeans or the skirt with a contemporary top would put give a retro spin to any gal's closet.

The goal of the fashion show is two-fold: show how vintage can be worn now (hence the name) and benefit a worthwhile charity.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but it's also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The fashion show celebrates female empowerment and will to fight -- either disease or abuse.

The show will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the River View Room at Buckner Brewing Co. Tickets are $10 and include a drink. Doors open at 6:30 for a raffle and silent auction. Tickets are available at Pastimes, Old Town Cape and Safe House for Women Thrift Shop or at The Style Stop Lifestyles in Jackson.

Maevers said she hoped to make it a yearly event so when people hear "Vintage Now" they think of cool fashion ideas as well as the Safe House.