New York has its fashion week. Boston has one of its own.
Now Andover has joined the fray, with Andover Fashion Week: The Best of the Andovers.
The organizer of the event is Clara Tompkins of Andover, the event planner behind several successful local bridal shows, including the New England Bridal Affair.
Tompkins wanted to put on an event to give back to the community, and her favorite charity, Supportive Care Inc. of Lawrence, a program for victims of domestic violence.
"It takes one person to make a difference — I wanted to do that," said Tompkins, who said she also wanted to give local businesses a boost.
So she came up with the event, which begins Thursday, Oct. 8, at 7 p.m. at Glory restaurant. Businesses will be showing off, and in some cases selling, their wares, from Ethan Allen furniture to Elements therapeutic massage.
Around 8 p.m., there will be a fashion show, featuring the clothes of Coco Collection, dresscode, Banana Republic, Russo Tux and First Date. Hair and makeup will be done by Bliss Salon in North Andover.
Throughout the night, there will be raffles, prizes and gift bags filled with coupons, gift certificates and other goodies.
The fun continues all week long at the stores that are part of the event. The stores will be holding special sales, trunk shows and other fun events.
More details will be available that night.
While Tompkins, a well-known local fashionista, is excited about the event, she's even happier to be raising money for Supportive Care Inc., which helps victims of domestic violence regain their financial and emotional independence.
"It's very close to my heart," she said.
If you go
What: Andover Fashion Week: The Best of the Andovers.
When: Thursday, Oct. 8, starting at 7 p.m.
Where: Glory Restaurant, 19 Essex St., Andover,
Admission: $15. For tickets and more information call 978-479-3616 or e-mail andoverfashion@aol.com.
