NATCHEZ — Feathers, curves, buttons and bows topped off Saturday’s hat and fashion show.

After a prayer by Pastor LeRoy White and a solo by the booming voice of Alderman Ernest “Tony” Fields, Supervisor Calvin Butler kicked the runway action into gear at the DJ turntables in the Natchez High School auditorium.

Proceeds from the 14th annual event hosted by the Southwest Mississippi chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Inc. raised money for the group’s scholarship fund.

Fashion show commentators Sonya Mars and Queen Irma Jackson picked apart the outfits and accessories with flair as models strutted down the runway in step with the event’s theme, “A Stroll Through Natchez.”

“Fit for a fashion diva, these spring colors add a splash of sunshine,” Mars said about model Lovie Martin’s bright orange, two-piece skirt suit.

When model Tony Hunt walked out in a 70’s inspired, purple mini dress with lime green boots, commentator Jackson said she was transported to living on Pine Street in the 70s.

“Whoo, you’re giving me a flashback,” Jackson sighed.

The disco-era getup was complimented by her big, round afro, Jackson said, and helped her become a crowd favorite

After bowing in prayer, Pastor White put on a hat of a different role to walk the catwalk sporting a three-piece brown suit with a yellow shirt and white fedora hat.

Five-year-old Zyah Cornett stole the show during each scene, except when Natchez Dance Theater student Christin Smith performed a ballet number to the song “Reflection” between runway walks.

While the fashions impressed on stage, many in the audience held their own, mostly on top of their heads, as audience members were encouraged to wear their best headgear.

Phillip West read names of nine present founding members of the NCBW local chapter. Those members and newer members, all dressed in black to let their fancy hats stand out, each received a red rose.

West thanked the women for their work over the years in helping and involving the youth of the community.

West said the group’s task has not been easy, but he commended the women for securing the historic integrity of the Angeletti House, which functions the group’s headquarters on St. Catherine Street.

For anyone in the audience who hasn’t yet realized Easter was only a week away, they had plenty of frills and details to inspire both on stage and around the room.