Old Square takes on an uptown look

For Ken and Cindy McClain, old traditions die hard.

If there is an Independence Square renaissance, they will be the orchestrators.

The McClains saw the disappearance of Independence Square Art Walks the third Friday of each month as leaving a void.

“My husband and I will do anything to help rid Independence of any preconceived notions people may have about it,” Cindy McClain said.

So they took the third Friday of each month into their own hands.

“There is so much in Independence worth celebrating,” Cindy McClain said. “If you can’t have an art walk, you better have something else in its place.”

On Friday, Cindy McClain hosted a runway fashion show at the new Be Here Now, 205 W. Lexington. The store reopened at its new location (it was formerly at 104 W. Maple) five months ago and features hordes of home decor and furniture. It is the fourth year Cindy McClain has held the fashion show, which used to be at Ophelia’s Restaurant.

At $20 a person, more than 50 people turned out for the half-hour show, arranged by Graceland University interns and employees at Cindy McClain’s trend hub, the Uptown Boutique.

“I’ve been out of town, so they’ve put this all together in the past month, and I think it’s fabulous,” Cindy McClain said.

The show was divided into five scenes of sunshiny styles and summery color. Greens, blues and reds were all in ample display. Browns, blacks and grays were forbidden.

“Blacks and grays bring to mind fall or winter,” Cindy McClain said. “We wanted pop art colors on abstract textiles; like you’ve taken art off the wall and put it on dresses and ties.”

Designers in the show included Voom, Alice & Olivia, French Connection, Joe’s Jeans and LaROK. Kansas City-based tie designer Christian Micheal and Christian Simms, an abstract expressionist known for using blind contour techniques, were also represented.

Food and beverages along with a DJ were included as part of the cost, which was used to pay the models.

 

UPCOMING -

On Aug. 15, the third Friday event will move to the Primary Colors gallery, 109 W. Lexington on the Independence Square. There will be a featured artist and live music. Food and beverages included. Cost is $20 a person. For more information, call 816-254-2106.