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“This is not my first rodeo.” For an eight-year-old, that’s a succinct way of saying that she may be young, but she considers herself a veteran when it comes to modeling. And who can challenge that? Through her grandmother’s involvement in Questers, she’s done eight vintage fashion shows in just two years.
Never heard of Questers? Nor had I until last spring when I met an entire table of ladies affiliated with this international group, which studies and conserves historical objects and landmarks. How did I not know about Questers? They have three chapters in Indianapolis alone!
Members are described as socially well-adjusted, intelligent people who have curiosity, enthusiasm, imagination and a good memory. By that definition, tell me, why wouldn’t everyone want to be a Quester?
A few times each year, they organize a vintage fashion show, supported in part by a vast collection of vintage clothes owned by Virgi, a woman who is advanced not only in intelligence, charm and style, but also in age.
If I were Virgi, I might tire of people constantly saying how remarkable I am for my age. In Virgi’s case, one can’t know her without recognizing that she has always been remarkable. So let’s leave her actual age out of this and say instead that she’s been collecting vintage clothes for decades.
Virgi and I aren’t well-acquainted, but I think it’s safe to add this: her appreciation for vintage clothes far exceeds the level of your average fashionista. She has, for pity’s sake, a hermetically-sealed space for storing her garments. Are you with me?
Through my friends KimAnn Schultz and Murph Damron, I was invited to help models dress for a Questers vintage fashion show held each summer at the Indiana State Fair under the watchful and experienced eye of Virgi. I couldn’t imagine how helpful that would be until after the show, where many of the models are wearing garments that have been handed down through family.
Think about it: truly vintage garments are loaded with buttons, snaps, hooks and eyes—and precious few zippers. Getting in and out of them takes much longer than a New York Minute. In a fast-paced show, models need all the help they can get. I adored working backstage in a supporting role. I hope I’m invited back next year!
I hope you’ve enjoyed my backstage photos from the show. What’s your favorite era? Questers are interested in all things antique. Maybe there’s a chapter in your area!
4 comments
Maureen said:
August 21, 2014 at 1:19 pm
Astounding!!!! Oh, I want to see those up close.
cjhammon said:
September 7, 2014 at 8:56 pm
You would LOVE them, Maureen!
murph damron said:
August 21, 2014 at 7:21 pm
THANK YOU CRYSTAL FOR BRING THE OLD LIFE BACK TO REALITY……….. KINDA’ LIKE AN OL’ BARRY MANILOV! XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX’S AND NEXT YEAR ~ ALL~ BE SURE TO BOOK YOUR CALANDRES FOR THE NEXT ‘QUESTER’S SHOW @ THE STATE FAIR~~~~~~~~ just me~~~~ murph
cjhammon said:
September 7, 2014 at 8:55 pm
Ah! You’re a dear heart! Thanks so much Murph!