HUB runway show set to offer 'Patio Party' May 13

Kirk Boxleitner | Mar 09, 20230

Courtesy photo count

The free book library was part of a recent renovation at The HUB.

The HUB Center for Seniors revival of what had traditionally been a semiannual runway show has settled on the theme for its Patio Party in May: Fashions inspired by the late 1960's through the 1970s.

Barbara Treick, manager of Belfair Self-Storage and creator of its art wall, received emails of interest last year from people who wanted to participate, and then received their fashion designs by Feb. 28. Treick said the event would feature two runway shows, one before lunch and the other afterward.

The first runway show will feature accessories by BABS (Barbara's Accessories and Bags Store), with leather accessories from designer Birdi Nagy, and the rest of its fashions drawn from the HUB thrift store's clothing, all of which will be available for sale.

Treick confirmed the participation of hair and makeup artist Sarah Scott, Crazy Hill Garden and Botanicals co-owner Elton Busby as the event's announcer and Kamo Youngblood as its photographer.

"Birdi Nagy plans to show a few pieces of her leather work, and to sew a piece using fabric I designed," said Treick, who also noted the participation of clothing designer Deidre Jansen and silversmith Rio. "And 100% of any sales of Barbara's Bags will be donated to the HUB."

Treick is still talking with other designers about their participation, the pieces they'll be providing to the show, and which models might showcase their wares. Other details, such as which music will accompany which works, also continue to be worked out.

Treick said the number of volunteer models has shot past 13 - ranging in age from 8 to seniors "with an almost even split between male and female models" - to as many as 32 folks who have expressed an interest in walking the runway.

Treick said show participants will be able to set up tables and booths in the HUB's Party Patio area to promote their brands.

Beth Gizzi, executive director of the HUB, said she's proud the senior center has had a fashion show "on and off" since 2007. She assured the public that "we really are back in full force."

This year's show will mark the HUB's first wearable art fashion show, and possibly the first of its kind for the area, Gizzi said.

"We started a 'found' fashion show - items that are found in a thrift shop, like our own HUB shop - to showcase what great looks you can put together on a budget," Gizzi said.

The HUB's mission is to support independent living for seniors and people with disabilities, so Gizzi encourages people to attend the May 13 show to support "a great cause" and local artists.

For further details, contact Treick at [email protected].