Participants in Monday’s St. Vincent de Paul Thrifty Belles fashion show proved that students can save money and support a good cause, all while expanding their wardrobes. Chloe Deranek, president of the St. Vincent de Paul club at Saint Mary’s said she wanted the Thrifty Belles fashion show, held in the dining hall, to inform students that thrift shopping is something students can do to find clothes for their everyday wardrobe. “Thrift shopping isn’t just for people who cannot afford designer clothes, crazy outfits and themed dances and sporting events,” Deranek said. “You can buy everyday things.” SMC students modeled St. Vincent’s thrift store clothing throughout the day in the Student Center. First-year student Caleigh Branigan modeled for the fashion show and said all SMC students should visit St. Vincent’s for some great clothes. “The actual show was a great experience, but thrifting was even better, I was able to buy so many great things for under 10 dollars and all the clothes were very fashionable,” Branigan said. “Saint Mary’s students would love thrifting at St. Vincent’s, especially if they’re looking for an adventure and cute new clothes.” Anne Watson, executive director of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, said it is important to have events like the Thrifty Belles fashion show to raise awareness of St. Vincent’s mission. “The proceeds we make from reselling items that are donated to us help us fund our programming,” Watson said. “We provide food, clothing, furniture, financial assistance and self-sufficiency programs to over 84,000 people a year in St. Joseph County.” Watson said SMC students can have a part of allowing the organization to reinvest in their mission and help the community. “[Our store] is very close to campus, and we have a huge Notre Dame section so you can get shirts, shorts and other things at the fraction of the price you would get them at the bookstore, plus you’re helping a good cause,” Watson said. “Every time you shop [at St. Vincent de Paul] you are helping someone in need.” Duranek said she wanted to have a fashion show to exhibit the different types of clothes being sold at St. Vincent’s. “You can buy everyday things like casual outfits or clothes you can wear to interviews,” Duranek said. “We really wanted to make a statement to girls that shopping at St. Vincent’s is not only going to save your wallet, but it’s also going to help other people.” Watson said she enjoyed working with the St. Vincent’s club at Saint Mary’s and she hopes the fashion show will encourage students to contribute to St. Vincent’s in any way possible. “I know a lot of Notre Dame and Saint Mary’s students are socially conscious and get involved in the community, so this is another way to get involved in the community and live out our shared Catholic identity through shopping,” she said. Contact Alaina Anderson at aander02@saintmarys.ed
