Every spring ladies in Montevallo look forward to the annual fashion show sponsored by the local chapter of the American Association of University Women.

This year, they were especially delighted with Springtime Renaissance, a style show, luncheon and silent auction held at the University of Montevallo’s Student Retreat on March 25.

Some 160 already fashionable guests enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by Southern Sweets while surveying and bidding on the creations of area artists and craftspersons and listening to the soothing background music of pianist Ed Robertson. The tables were decorated by Sarah Arnold and Dean Nathews.

“Oh, that’s beautiful.” “I want that one.” “She looks so good,” were all whispered as the models gracefully strolled down the runway wearing the latest spring styles. Models included: Barbara Belisle, Pat Bird, Glenda Terrell Cairns, Jami Carlee, Gale Carson, Eleanor Davis, Haley Dennis, Pat Elder, Tommie Evans and Nancy Hale. Others were Louise Harper, Brenda Hines, Beth Hughes Wilder, Elaine Hughes, Robin Norsworthy, Christina Powell, Randi Reaves, Mary Lou Williams, and Lee Ann Webb, along with little Emma Grace Carstensen and John David Lott Haws.

“We felt very good about the success of the luncheon,” said Sandra Lott, co-president of the chapter. “We will be able to do a lot of good with the proceeds to benefit our educational initiatives and the Reading is Fundamental program.”

Faye Roberts and Barbara Broadhead coordinated the fashion show, with styles by Renaissance Consignments Boutique of 6801 Cahaba Valley Road. Lott and other members organized the silent auction which included original oil and water color paintings, needlework, jewelry, hand painted china, stained glass, cut glass, books, ceramics, metal crafts, plants, garden art, woodcrafts and specialty foods.

The national organization of AAUW has, for more than 100 years, promoted equity for all women and girls, lifelong education and positive societal change.

The state organization will hold its convention in Montevallo this year April 16-18.

The local AAUW chapter was chartered in 1927, has always had a positive influence on the community and is well-known for the annual fashion show, the Book Group, and other initiatives. Membership is open to anyone with an associate’s degree or higher.

For more information, visit Aauw-alabama.org/mvallo1.html or call either Sandra Lott 665-2127 or Mary Jo Buff 665-6289.

Catherine Legg can be reached at clegg2@bellsouth.net.