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not her first rodeo“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?

Vir

 

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?

VirgieMurph

Virgi with my friend Murph Damron, right.

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!

B&C

Don’t they look like living American Girl dolls?

On the right, my friend KimAnn, president of the Fashion Arts Society at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Also an awesome blogger for the Huffington Post

On the right, my friend KimAnn, president of the Fashion Arts Society at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Also an awesome blogger for the Huffington Post.

lilac
mother daughter

Murph Damron is an image consultant who has modeled professionally...and let me tell you, she knows how to vogue on a runway.

Murph Damron (right) is an Indianapolis-based image consultant and professional model. And let me tell you, she knows how to vogue on a runway. I wanted you to see the entire length of her outfit. I love the plaid dress on the model to Murph’s left.

Navy
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!

Life is short. Wear the good stuff.