TEXARKANA, Arkansas A team of models, a knowledgeable emcee, a unique setting and unforgettable times set the stage and the runway at Texarkana Museum Systems' 70s Fashion show on Saturday.
The event was the latest in a series celebrating the origins of TMS in that decade.
"Lots of assets came together to make this show happen," said Velvet Hall Cool, TMS board president. "The Texarkana Museums System has a considerable collection of clothing from various eras, including the 70s. Also, our own Tonya Davenport brought items. Volunteers are key in making these events happen, as well as monetary support from friends of TMS. We don't get state funding. We get some from local tourism taxes, but our supporters are key in supporting TMS."
Texarkana Museums System is comprised presently of four museums/buildings, including the Ace of Clubs House, the P.J. Ahern House, Discovery Place and the Regional Museum.
When the time came for the fashion show, Hall Cool highlighted Carol Collins Miles, a Texarkana native who ascended to the worldwide halls of fashion in Paris and elsewhere.
"Carol's love of fashion started with her family, her mother and older sister," she said. "Doris (her older sister) was the first to photograph her. Later, Carol designed outfits while a student at Texas High School. She then began modelling while in college. She went pro later, working with designers in Paris and elsewhere in the world, with a range of famous names in the world of fashion."
Miles is also on the music heritage committee, preserving the musical heritage of Texarkana and the city's music center.
"She will be one of the key figures redesigning it very soon," she said.
The fashion show kicked off, featuring a range of local and regional models, professionals, students in a fun display, which the crowd greatly enjoyed.