Trashion Fashion events begin in Sonoma on April 7

The full week of Fashion Trashion events begins on Saturday, April 7, with the opening of “Barbie: Rescued and Reinvented,” an exhibit and silent auction featuring dozens of repurposed Barbie dolls. The opening reception is from 4 to 6 p.m. in Sonoma Community Center’s Gallery 212. The exhibit will remain open through April 15.

Last year’s exhibition included Barbies dressed as birds, hula dancers and wearing “pussy hats.”

On Sunday, April 8, Dogs on the Catwalk takes place in the center back patio. Doggie duds should be made of recycled materials. Owners may dress up as well. Pets Lifeline will be on site with adoptable dogs and cats plus PLL staff will be bringing its new engraving machine and providing free name tags to all.

More than 40 professional and amateur designers will strut the catwalk at the centerpiece Trashion Fashion event on April 14 – wearing original, outrageous and unique designs made from recycled materials and cast off junk.

“I am continually fascinated by the imagination and talent of the designers,” said the center’s Special Program Manager Margaret Hatcher. “This promises to be the biggest and most extraordinary show ever.”

The Trashion production team for 2018 includes runway coach Cat Austin, commentary writer Ilene Briggin, master of ceremonies Cynthia Tarr, musicians Cliff Hugo on bass, Sean Carscadden on guitar and Kendrick Freemen on drums.

Tickets are on sale at svbo.org or by calling 938-4626, ext. 1. All seating is reserved. Tickets range in price from $20 to $80.

There will be 1 and 4 p.m. shows. The 4 p.m. show will include an awards ceremony followed by a reception.

The Trashion Fashion Show is sponsored by Republic of Thrift, Sonoma Garbage Collectors, Lagunitas Brewing Company, Vicki Kryzanowski and Sydnie Kohara, and Marchelle and Curt Carleton; with support from Sonoma Tourism Improvement District, the County of Sonoma, City of Sonoma and Sonoma Plein Air Foundation.

Proceeds from Trashion Fashion Week events will support summer arts programs for kids. including fiber arts, sewing camp and plein air curriculum.

For information on how to participate in these events, visit trashionfashionsonoma.org.