Break out the psychedelic mini skirts and go-go boots: The'60s are back.

Well, at least for a little while on Jan. 13 when Ebony Fashion Fair models showcase vintage clothing starting with the 1950s and going up to today's runways. The annual event, at Samford University Wright Center, begins at 5 p.m.

This is the 50th year for the national tour, sponsored locally by the Birmingham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. since 1966.

The event helps raise money for college scholarships and the group's community projects.

"Delta Sigma Theta is a community-oriented organization ... The sorority is committed to doing public service work," said Loretta W. Allen, a member of the sorority's fund-raising committee.

This year's show theme is "Glam Odyssey: A Fashion Journey into Bliss & Beyond."

"I think (the show is) just an overview of everything that has taken place, how fashion has evolved, and how designers have just taken so many different ways to use fabric and colors and textures and blend it all together and bring us to our modern day," said show commentator Jada Collins.

Present-day styles from numerous designers will be shown, including Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera and Emanuel Ungaro. African-American labels also will be featured, including b. michael, Fusha by musician Wyclef Jean's wife, Maria Claudinette Pierre-Jean; and Kai Milla by singer Stevie Wonder's wife of the same name.

Some of the present-day fashions favored by Collins include Rome-based designer Sarli's cream tunic embellished with oyster pearls and rhinestones, and accented with a silk-satin cummerbund and matching fluted bottom pants. The ensemble appears on the show's promotional posters and Web site (ebonyfashionfair.com).

"I think it's timeless," Collins said.

Another favorite is the sexy wedding gown by Zang Toi of New York.

"Any bride-to-be would be drop dead gorgeous wearing this ... evening gown and coat," Collins said. "It's just a fabulous piece."

The vintage pieces pack a punch, too, and are garments that have appeared in past Ebony Fashion Fair shows, including a'70s-styled maxi-length black embroidered coat trimmed in fur and paired with knee-boots and a fedora-style hat.

"As fashion developed and continued to grow, Ebony Fashion Fair was right there," Collins said.

This article was provided by: The Birmingham News
Written by: Chanda Temple Guster