RetroFittings: 20 Years of Fashion, Fun, and Fueling the Mission

Soon after Bonita Arnette joined the RetroFittings Boutique Committee, she discovered what a unique community it was and that the work felt a little like treasure hunting.

“I pretty quickly realized that people give a lot of good stuff!” she shares. “For last year’s Boutique, I found an original black Chanel wool skirt. I spent a lot of time shaving it and bringing it back to life. It was fun to find something vintage and resurrect it so that someone else could wear it.”

This year marks the 20th anniversary of RetroFittings, an event that blends sustainability, innovation, and service. At its heart are students from University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning (DAAP), who transform thrifted clothing from SVDP stores into bold runway looks for an evening of high fashion and fundraising. Guests also enjoy dinner, drinks, a silent auction, a raffle, and of course, the Boutique, where items curated by Bonita and her fellow committee members are sold to support SVDP programs.

“For example,” says Bonita, “I’m taking home jean jackets and modernizing them—taking off collars, cuffs, sewing on buttons, so that we can sell a good piece.”

Preparation starts months in advance, with the Boutique Committee sourcing and restoring pieces, and even hosting donation parties with friends. “We invite them over to one of the gal’s houses and we do a wine and cheese party and everybody brings clothes to donate,” Bonita explains.

For Bonita, the best part is knowing the impact extends far beyond the runway. “By far, the best part of RetroFittings is the fact that the funds are going to neighbors, right back to the local community. It’s the main reason that I volunteer on the Boutique Committee. The social aspect is great too. We have a tightknit group of gals who enjoy each other’s company, and we have a lot of fun with it.”

Join us on October 23 for an unforgettable night of bold design, creative reuse, and gratitude in action. Learn more at RetroFittings.org.

RetroFashion Week: Shop, Save & Style

Get Runway-Ready without breaking the bank! From October 13–23, all red-tagged items at our Thrift Stores will be 50% off.

It’s the perfect chance to flex your creativity. Hunt for hidden gems, piece together your most fashion-forward outfit, and wear it proudly at RetroFittings.

You’ll look great, feel great, and support a great cause, because every purchase fuels St. Vincent de Paul’s mission to serve neighbors in need.