Fashion show highlights

The 27th annual fashion show at the Colonie Senior Center brought glamour and excitement to the Mother’s Day celebration, with local seniors taking centre stage as models. Each participant showcased stylish ensembles provided by Beck’s, a local fashion retailer known for its commitment to community events. The outfits ranged from elegant daywear to sophisticated evening looks, reflecting both current trends and timeless classics suited to the senior models.

Adding a unique and heartwarming element to the runway, members of the Colonie Police Department served as escorts for the models. Their presence not only ensured a smooth procession but also highlighted the strong bond between the centre and local law enforcement. The officers’ respectful and cheerful demeanour added to the charm of the event, drawing smiles and applause from the audience.

The runway itself was transformed into a vibrant stage, complete with music and lighting that enhanced the festive mood. Each model received enthusiastic cheers as they walked, with many striking playful poses and waving to friends and family in the crowd. The audience, made up of over 280 attendees, responded with laughter, clapping, and even a few standing ovations, creating an atmosphere of celebration and appreciation.

Behind the scenes, volunteers and staff worked diligently to ensure the models felt confident and comfortable. From hair and makeup touch-ups to last-minute wardrobe adjustments, the team’s efforts contributed to the polished and professional feel of the show. The fashion show not only celebrated style but also the spirit and vitality of the senior community, making it a standout feature of the day’s festivities.

Community support and fundraising

The fashion show was more than just a stylish affair—it served as a meaningful fundraiser to support the Colonie Senior Center’s vital transportation services. These services play a crucial role in helping local seniors maintain their independence, providing rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and social events. With limited public transport options available to many older residents, the centre’s transport program is a lifeline for staying connected and active within the community.

To bolster these efforts, attendees were invited to participate in a 50/50 raffle, which generated both excitement and generous contributions. The raffle drew enthusiastic participation, with guests eagerly purchasing tickets throughout the luncheon. The lucky winner took home a cash prize, while the remaining proceeds went directly toward maintaining and expanding the centre’s transport offerings. The sense of giving back was palpable, with many guests expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to support such a worthy cause.

In addition to the raffle, local businesses and individuals contributed through sponsorships and donations. Beck’s, the fashion show’s clothing sponsor, not only provided the stylish outfits but also made a financial contribution to the centre. Other community partners donated gift baskets, vouchers, and services, which were displayed in a silent auction format, further boosting the fundraising total. The generosity of the Colonie community was on full display, reinforcing the strong network of support that surrounds the senior centre.

Volunteers played a key role in the success of the fundraising efforts. From selling raffle tickets to coordinating donations and managing the auction tables, their dedication ensured that every dollar raised would go directly toward enhancing the lives of local seniors. Their efforts were met with heartfelt thanks from both the centre’s staff and the attendees, many of whom have personally benefited from the services being supported.

Special guests and memorable moments

One of the most memorable aspects of the day was the presence of NewsChannel 13’s Chris Onorato, who served as the event’s emcee. With his warm personality and quick wit, Onorato kept the crowd engaged and entertained throughout the show. His commentary added a professional polish to the proceedings, while his genuine interactions with the models and audience members brought a personal touch that resonated with everyone in attendance.

Several of the senior models shared touching stories as they walked the runway, highlighting their personal journeys and what participating in the fashion show meant to them. For many, it was a chance to step outside their comfort zones and embrace a moment of joy and self-expression. One participant, a 92-year-old great-grandmother, received a standing ovation as she confidently strutted down the runway, beaming with pride. Her moment in the spotlight was a powerful reminder of the vitality and resilience of the senior community.

The Colonie Police Department’s involvement extended beyond the runway. Officers mingled with attendees during the luncheon, sharing stories and laughter with guests. Their presence fostered a sense of safety and camaraderie, reinforcing the strong relationship between the centre and local law enforcement. Many attendees took the opportunity to thank the officers personally, and several posed for photos with their favourite escorts, creating lasting memories of the day.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, a surprise musical performance by a local high school choir delighted the crowd. The students performed a medley of classic tunes, including favourites from the 1950s and 60s, which had many guests singing along and tapping their feet. The intergenerational moment was a highlight, bridging the gap between young and old and showcasing the community spirit that defines the Colonie Senior Center.

Throughout the event, spontaneous moments of joy and connection unfolded—friends reuniting, families cheering on their loved ones, and volunteers receiving heartfelt thanks. These moments, though unscripted, captured the essence of the day: a celebration not just of fashion, but of community, connection, and the enduring spirit of the seniors who continue to inspire those around them.

Fashion show highlights

The 27th annual fashion show at the Colonie Senior Center brought a refreshing blend of elegance and community spirit to the runway. Local seniors took centre stage, confidently modelling a curated selection of stylish ensembles provided by Beck’s. Each look was thoughtfully chosen to reflect both timeless sophistication and modern flair, proving that fashion knows no age.

Adding a uniquely heartwarming twist, members of the Colonie Police Department served as runway escorts, creating a delightful juxtaposition of uniformed charm and graceful glamour. The chemistry between the models and their escorts added a layer of authenticity and joy that resonated with the audience.

The runway itself became a celebration of personal style and self-expression, with outfits ranging from classic daywear to elegant evening pieces. The seniors’ poise and presence highlighted the importance of inclusive fashion that empowers women at every stage of life.

“It was a beautiful showcase of confidence and community,” one attendee remarked, capturing the essence of the event’s atmosphere.

With over 280 guests in attendance, the fashion show not only spotlighted local talent and style but also reinforced the growing demand for age-diverse representation in fashion. The event proved that style is not defined by age, but by the confidence with which it is worn.

Community support and festivities

The celebration extended well beyond the runway, with a vibrant luncheon that brought together over 280 guests in a warm and welcoming setting. Tables were adorned with seasonal florals and soft pastel linens, echoing the elegance of the fashion show while creating a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Guests mingled over a thoughtfully prepared meal, sharing stories and laughter that reflected the strong sense of community at the heart of the event.

A highlight of the afternoon was the 50/50 raffle, which added a touch of excitement and friendly competition to the festivities. The proceeds from the raffle were directed toward the Colonie Senior Center’s transportation services—an essential program that ensures seniors remain connected and mobile within their community. This initiative resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom have benefited from the service or know someone who has.

NewsChannel 13’s Chris Onorato brought his signature charm as the event’s emcee, keeping the energy high and the crowd engaged. His presence added a professional polish to the proceedings, while his warm rapport with the audience made the event feel intimate and inclusive.

What truly set the day apart was the seamless blend of fashion, philanthropy, and fellowship. The event wasn’t just about showcasing style—it was about celebrating the women who wear it, supporting the services that empower them, and strengthening the bonds that hold the community together.