My Sister's Closet displays vintage, used fashions at Briscoe benefit show

Modern fashionistas know that a stable career is always in style.

Independence was the featured look at My Sister’s Closet of Monroe County’s “Monday Night Fashion,” an evening of runway action and socio-economical education on the women’s workforce front.

“What we really try to do, in very basic terms, is change lives,” said Jennifer Stewart, executive director of My Sister’s Closet before a casually dressed crowd in Briscoe’s formal lounge.

Stewart, standing on a floor-level runway fashioned between aisles of seated onlookers, said that many women still face discrimination in the workplace. For those discouraged, or sometimes on the verge of homelessness, she said the organization offers free or discounted business professional attire.

“I believe the work we do at My Sister’s Closet helps women feel better about themselves,” she said. “When a woman sees the possibilities she didn’t see before, that’s power.”

Stewart said the organization not only outfits women for boosted confidence, but delivers resume and job-hunting advice as well.

Amid twinkling lights, pink balloons and decorative flowers around the lounge was a clothing line displaying gently-used tweed jackets, button-up shirts, cable-knit sweaters and casual dresses.

Junior Jennifer Gutsgell, a My Sister’s Closet volunteer, said the organization frequently finds valuable items to sell inexpensively.

“I got a pair of Seven jeans for five dollars,” she said. “The store has lots of great finds.”

Similar “great finds” were showcased in the evening’s featured event - a full-scale, music blasting, student-modeled fashion show.

Sophomore Rebecca Carne received loud applause as she strutted down the runway, modeling black heels and a matching purse.

“I was a little nervous, but it was fun,” she said. “I work here at Briscoe, and My Sister’s Closet is our partner group. I’m really excited to help, and the residents here love fashion, so it’s a great combination.”

Freshman Mike Holmquist, dressed head to toe in IU gear, was among those cheering in the crowd.

“It was good to come out and see a great organization get out and help ladies in need,” he said.