Thursday, August 7, 2014

The Traveling Pink Sweater Goes to the Fair

The first six women to join the Sisterhood include, clockwise from top left:  Madison Hanulak (photo courtesy of Studio 505); Leslie Bailey (photo courtesy of Michelle Pemberton, Indianapolis Star); Crystal Hammon; Jody DeFord; Megan Giannini; Maggie Connor.  You can read more about their experiences with the Sweater here.
Oh, the places it's been.  And, oh, the stories it's heard!  If you've been following Red's Shoe Diaries, I hope you'll remember the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pink Sweater. When we started this initiative last October, my friend and fellow blogger Crystal Hammon and I had one goal:  to raise awareness and money for the critical breast cancer support services provided by The Pink Ribbon Connection while at the same time highlighting vintage fashion and its relevance in today’s world.  If you're new to the blog or this is the first time you've seen this vintage 1960s gem, check out my original post. This cutie of a  cardigan has a fascinating history!  It also travels in style from woman to woman in its own vintage pink suitcase.

Since my last update, the Sisterhood has nearly doubled in size.  While I know four of these women personally, I've yet to meet the others.  When we developed the project, Crystal and I made a deliberate choice to let the journey grow organically, allowing each new Sweater Sister to select the next recipient - a choose your own adventure, if you will - so that the sweater's story would reach beyond our own spheres of influence.  

I actually hoped the Barbie pink cardie would travel somewhat faster than it has.  But, the truth is, we're all busy, and sometimes things just take a bit longer than anticipated.  Regardless, every woman that has joined the journey has made a point to share it with her friends, family, and the world at large through social media.  It's so interesting to follow the sweater's path as it makes new "pink ribbon connections" around the State and beyond.  Allow me to introduce you to latest women to join to the Sisterhood!

I think you'll agree that little Lulu, shown below sporting the sweater last week at the Indiana State Fair, is a future fashionista in training.  Check out those matching pink cowgirl boots - I wonder if they make them in my size!  Lulu's mom, Katy, shares what inspired this Hoosier adventure at Indy With Kids.  Don't miss her story about the impact of her grandmother's battle with breast cancer on their relationship, and the lasting impact it's had on her life.
sisterhood of the traveling pink sweater indy with kids
Lulu is both runway ready and midway ready as she models the Pink Sweater at the Indiana State Fair
Katy shared the sweater with Tracy, who shares her experience At Home with Sweet T.  As you can tell from her outtake photos, she's got personality plus, and I'm looking forward to meeting her in person when the Sisterhood gathers in celebration at the end of the journey!  Find out what inspired her to pair pink and pearls with powertools here.
Tracy had fun posing in pink and pearls with power tools!
Heather donned the sweater in support of her cousin, Lori.  The outpouring of support Lori has received from family and friends, and even her son's Little League Team, will put a smile on your face.  You can read about it at Just Heather.
Heather proudly sports her "Team Lori" bracelet as she prepares to hand the Pink Sweater off to its next recipient.
Crystal joined the Sisterhood in memory of her friend, Vanessa.  Just as Vanessa was there for Crystal when she was baptized into the body of Christ, so Crystal was there for Vanessa as she returned to the Lord after a lengthy battle with the disease.  You can read her tribute at Mom For Less.
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pink Sweater
Crystal wears the Pink Sweater in celebration of the life of her friend, Vanessa.
Last, but certainly not least, is KimAnn, a regular blogger at the Huffington Post and a true fashionista who appreciates the durability and enduring style of quality vintage garments.  In her post, KimAnn recounts the fascinating story her Aunt, who survived not only breast cancer but also political exile after her father was executed in a Kharkov prison.  After reading about her experiences and her continued appreciation for life's little joys, I'd love to sit down with this 87 year old spitfire over coffeecake!  
KIMANN SCHULTZ
The Pink Sweater casts a rosy glow over a historic portrait of KimAnn's Aunt and her family.
Stay tuned as the Traveling Pink Sweater continues its adventure!  I hope you find the journey both interesting and inspiring.  If you'd like to support the Sweater's mission, you can make a tax-deductible contribution to the Pink Ribbon Connection here.


Fashion is what you buy; Style is what you do with it!

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