Thrift Show Chic is Fun, Fashionable at the Women's Civic Club of Katonah

It wasn't exactly a scene from Project Runway, but there was a flurry of activity behind the scenes as the members of the put the finishing touches on their thrift-shop chic ensembles before taking the stage at their annual luncheon.

The outfits selected and modeled by members of the Women's Civic Club of Katonah were fun, fancy and fashionable. And they reflected the myriad personalities, ages and stages of life of the 145 members of the organization, still going strong after almost 100 years.

"We are really very lucky to be doing well," said Corinne Repp, 70, a 42-year member formerly in charge of the through which the club raises money for civic causes. "I think it's because we give so much to the community—$13,000 last year—and it's fun and we have a lot for women to do."

The club continues to attract new members from retirees to young mothers and there are no plans to change what they offer, said Repp. They once tried to offer an evening session to appeal to working moms, as their events are typically held during the day-time, but it just didn't work.

"Most of the women around here, their husbands work in the city and get home late so they can't get out—we didn't have enough interest," said Repp. But several members interviewed at the luncheon said accommodations are made so that working women can join. The typical member is required to work at the thrift shop twice a month and attend meetings but allowances have been made to work fewer hours.

The club was founded in 1918 as a continuation of the Katonah Suffrage Club, which was started 1913 to help women obtain the right to vote, according to its officers. Members range in age from the 30s though most members are retired, said June Gardner, 63.

"I didn't join until my son went to college," she said. "It's hard for working moms who have so many responsibilities to make the commitment."

For women who commit, the benefits can be tremendous, said Gardner.

"I've made several close friends whom I see outside of club functions, and there are so many groups within the club to enjoy—there's a mahjong group, a sewing group, a bridge club, book club, singing and dining group."

One member who thought the club could use more younger members was Kathryn Phelps, 73. "Many of the jobs in taking care of the thrift shop are physically demanding," she said. "We could use help with the books and other heavy lifting."

She also said it would help with the vitality of the club and keeping traditions going. Phelps, young at heart, wore a sparkly black cocktail dress for the fashion show and planned for her final fashion stroll to wear a red lacy negligee.

For more information on membership,