MODELS Mary Malone, Candace Connell, Marlene Dupy, Judy Carney and Susie Brown with Marilyn Smallwood of Plaza Fashions take a bow after the Spring Fashion Show at Meramec Vineyards.

Missouri’s weather may not be predictable, but Marilyn Smallwood of Plaza Fashions in St. James predicted that bright colors, as well as black and white, are the “in” things this spring. In a multi-year tradition, her store joined forces with Meramec Vineyards to sponsor a Spring Fashion Show Luncheon on Tues., Apr. 7.
Over 30 guests enjoyed a glass of wine with a delicious Bistro lunch featuring basil pesto chicken and marinated fresh asparagus.
“What is that herb you put in the asparagus,” asked Vivian Dietert.
“Everything was so good,” commented Paula Wyss.
“I know I shouldn’t have sweets, but I made an exception for the wonderful strawberry sundae,” said Ruth Rambosek. “You’ve got to break the rules sometime.”
Smallwood had several local ladies model the Plaza Fashions outfits “upfront and personal” at each table. The guests could check out the fabric, ask questions of the models about fit, and plan their accessories.
One of the popular items was the black and white jacket modeled by Judy Carney of Wilson Lumber.
“Add this stylish jacket to your black slacks and top and you make an ordinary outfit spiffy and elegant,” she pointed out.
The Fashion Show is just one way these local St. James businesses join forces to promote local shopping.
For Paula Bryant, new to St. James, and her sister, Joyce Dessandro, from Belle, it was their first such Fashion Show. The sisters said they plan to attend another and come to Meramec Vineyards’ next Girls Night Out on Thurs., Apr. 23.
Joyce was one of the lucky ones who won a door prize of a free ticket to that upcoming event at the luncheon. All the guests received a special promotion coupon from Plaza Fashions.
After the show, many of the guests left the winery headed to Plaza Fashions to buy some of the eye-catching outfits they saw in the show. They left with a spring in their step.