Since opening on State Street in October 2009, ReThreads Recycled and Used Clothing has established itself as an eco-friendly fashion hot spot among Madisonians. ReThreads is a unique and hip thrift store that selectively chooses its previously owned merchandise, all the while proving you can be trendy and still love mother earth.
This Saturday night, the High Noon Saloon is hosting the ReThreads “Spring Revival” fashion show, offering an evening of fashion, music and fun … all in the name of charity. The fashion show starts at 9:30 p.m., with a post-party that extends until 2 a.m.
ReThreads Manager Tasha Poepping said the event is open to individuals 18 and over, and that 100 percent of the $6 cover charge will go directly to the Goodman Center, a program established to strengthen the lives of people in the Madison community. Poepping noted they are donating directly toward an afterschool program for high school girls.
“It’s a good thing for kids, so they don’t get into trouble,” she said.
The planning for “Spring Revival” began three months ago and is sure to trump last year’s show, which drew a crowd of approximately 200. With this year’s event on a Saturday, rather than a Wednesday, Poepping is counting on a bigger audience – and more funds raised to help the Goodman Center.
“Spring Revival” features 27 models strutting their eco-friendly stuff through three different themes in the show. The first set is inspired by spring, the second flaunts vintage attire and the third displays modern styles. The diverse themes also allow ReThreads to show off its vast array of merchandise.
“There are definitely clothes you can wear on an everyday basis, but we tried to make it more funky this time,” Poepping said. “We do stuff that’s a little more dressy and designer stuff.”
Shopping for recycled clothing can be rewarding if you find what you are looking for, but with ever-changing merchandise, shopping can be a little competitive. So, Poepping encourages her customers to visit often to take advantage of the great merchandise that comes into the store on a daily basis.
“We’re just really lucky to get so much great stuff in. Being on State Street is the best location we could have asked for,” she said.
Typical fashion shows aim to sell garments straight off the runway, but this show is geared toward promoting the store, while simultaneously giving back to the community. However, Poepping reassures fashion show goers if they see something they like on the runway, she would be glad to put the item on hold following the show.
The soundtrack to this magical night will be defined by three talented and diverse acts. DJ Legalize It will get the venue bumping with dubstep, a futuristic type of electronic dance music. Roboman was described by Poepping as “a one man band that is like rock and folk” while Dharmonic Deluxe was characterized as “more experimental and dance music.”
It is nice to see local shops in Madison stepping up to host events that give back to the community. In Poepping’s own words, “I just think it’s important to show people they can be green and do something for their community and the earth. They can be fashionable and affordable; anybody can come here and shop.”
ReThreads “Spring Revival” fashion show will be at the High Noon Saloon April 23 from 9:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. with a $6 cover charge.
