Carbondale, Colorado or Milan, Italia?

An extraordinary event benefiting community non-profits CCAH and KDNK. The show was directed by Amy Kimberly and Lynn Aliya

You could feel the buzz as you approached the building. Models smoking cigarettes lingered outside the backstage door with glittered faces and avant-garde hairstyles. When we arrived inside, the Carbondale Rec Center had been transformed. The pounding music pulled you inside, and beyond the glass partition, soft colored green lights lit the room. The excitement was palpitating, our cow town was transformed, this wasn't Kansas anymore, that's for sure! Chairs were added to accomodate the overflow crowd, and locals traditionally more comfortable in jeans and athletic wear, dressed to the nines for the occasion. Mojitos and desserts were provided by area restaurants and people enjoyed mingling and chatting it up during the reception hour.

Following cocktail hour, Amy Kimberly came down the runway to introduce the event. The lights dimmed, the music went up and the show began. On the runway were local models showcasing handmade wares by local clothing designers, jewelers and even shoe designers. Most of the clothing was sustainable and recycled, including a line of clothing made from "Target," bags, by young designer Hilary Johnson. Wild Women artists, Janet Nelson and Wewer Keohane created fashions from wine bottle corks, twigs and tea bags! Unfortunately my battery ran out for those, as they were exquisite. Also featured were funky hats by Emily Marshall of Free Time Goods, Yoga bags by Megan larsen, recycled jewels by Lorraine Morrison of 315 Marie. 

Congratulations to everyone who contributed to the show. What an amazing community collaboration!