Reveal your retro side in vintage apparel
Just as the lyrics to the song "Everything Old is New Again" always said, everything vintage is in style again.
Vintage clothing and jewelry were making a ripple 20 years ago and the previous owner of Cat's Pajamas Productions saw a need for a Midwest show.
"There were shows on the East and West coasts, but none in the middle of the country," said Sara Cassidy, owner of Cat's Pajamas Productions.
"That first year, there were 10 booths at the Piano Factory in St. Charles," Cassidy said.
"We grew to filling a quarter of the Hemmens -- and now we take over the whole building."
That little ripple grew into a big splash, and the show has grown to 75 booths this year. The Cat's Pajamas Antique Clothing and Jewelry Show and Sale will be held Friday and Saturday at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 150 Dexter Court, Elgin.
The show is juried, which means every dealer has to pass muster to be included on the sales floor.
Dealers must submit samples of the types of things they plan to sell, and the people at Cat's Pajamas Productions make the decision on whether the items are up to par.
"We're very picky," Cassidy said. "And, we check references." Dealers can't get away with reproductions.
"We have an expert go around the sales floor who can recognize a reproduction right away," Cassidy said.
"And, dealers will tattle on each other," she said. "They want the show to maintain its integrity."
Dealers come from across the Midwest and as far away as Texas.
Locally, Terry Kempe, owner of Carrie Richmond Antiques in Barrington, will have a booth at the Hemmens show filled with her specialty, vintage costume jewelry. She has been working with Cat's Pajamas for 25 years.
"I'm not surprised this year's show is large," Kempe said.
"Sara is excellent at marketing and all the exhibitors love her."
Cat's Pajamas is celebrating its 20th anniversary. A Super Celebration is planned for Friday evening featuring live swing music, a cocktail bar, gourmet appetizers, contests and prizes.
On Saturday, drop by for the fashion show, demonstrations, a gourmet cafe, more contests and more prizes.
If you go
What: Cat's Pajamas Antique Clothing and Jewelry Show
When: 5 to 10 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday
Where: The Hemmens Cultural Center, 150 Dexter Court, Elgin.
Admission: On Friday, $10 will pay for entire weekend with $2 off Friday admission if you dress in vintage. Special early admission at 3 p.m. Friday is $60. Admission for Saturday only is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and children under age 10 are free.
Details: For more information, check Web site www.catspajamas productions.net.