Rebecca Russell, owner of Beespoke Vintage, is at it again with another great event. After the success of Lafayette's Grand Birthday Ball & Soiree in 2023, she is taking on a different era with a WWII Swing Dance.
A WWII USO Swing Dance, a 1940s-inspired event, is planned for Saturday, June 29, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the SkyView on Hay Street in downtown Fayetteville. Russell is of the opinion that the women from the 1940s possessed a timeless and elegant appearance.
“Classic! I think that’s the word so many would use to describe the era. The hemlines were conservative but not too long. The shapes were flattering to almost all body shapes with tailored lines and semi-flared hems. Simple and feminine at the same time. Women could be glamorous but also just fun and flirty. I think that’s why this is a time when so many women really got into home sewing,” shares Russell.
Get ready to step back in time and with every step, you will be transported to the 1940s WWII era, where the air is filled with the lively tunes of swing dance. Move about the three distinctive areas in SkyView on Hay each with its own theme and bar: USO, South Pacific Shore Leave Bar, and Free France at the Casablanca Cafe.
Immerse yourself in the spirit of the USOs, where servicemen and women found solace and entertainment during wartime. Move on to South Pacific Shore Leave Bar, The Drunken Monkey, where sailors would gather to unwind and enjoy their time off. The atmosphere is laid-back and carefree, with tropical cocktails flowing and laughter filling the air. And last but not least, the Casablanca Cafe, a secret underworld where resistance fighters plot and strategize against the enemy force. To see a floor plan and layout of the different areas for the event visit https://the10dressesproject.org/wwii-swing-dance-2024
Ensure that your identification documents receive a stamp in all three designated areas, attach a photograph or letter of your World War II veteran or Homefront Hero to the Memory Wall, and take a moment to appreciate the cherished memories of others. Additionally, you can have a temporary tattoo created, enjoy a captivating Burlesque performance, purchase some nostalgic treats like Cracker Jacks or candy cigarettes from the lovely cigarette girls, show your support by acquiring a War Bond pin, and most importantly, dance the night away to the lively tunes of a 9-piece Big Band.
VIP guests will have the opportunity to gain early access to the event location, where they can indulge in three complimentary drink vouchers, savor delectable cuisine, receive specially curated keepsakes, and enjoy an exclusive lineup of entertainment that has been exclusively arranged for their enjoyment. Additionally, their seats will be reserved for the duration of the entire evening.
Don’t forget to enter one of the two dance contests. Prizes include $500 and free t-shirts. If you need to brush up on your swing dancing skills before the event head over to Roland’s Dance Studio at 310 Hope Mills Road for some lessons.
Or maybe the Best Dressed Contest is more your speed. Five women and five men will be chosen as Best Dressed throughout the evening and winners will receive a customized sash, bragging rights and a coupon for free merch.
The 10Dresses Project, a non-profit organization committed to preserving history through fashion, is partnering to co-host this event. A percentage of the proceeds from this occasion will be allocated to support educational initiatives such as 10Dresses Project Workshops, Camps and Prom Projects. Additionally, a "Gala Scholarship" will be awarded to a participant, allowing them to attend the incredible events.
Get ready to celebrate in style with your finest 1940s outfits, slip on your dancing shoes, and prepare to have a blast like the Greatest Generation that came before us! Tickets can be purchased at: https://tinyurl.com/4nvzbnr5

(Photo: Rebecca Russell of Beespoke Vintage poses on a motorbike in a 1940s-inspired outfit. Russell is hosting a WWII USO Swing Dance in downtown Fayetteville. Photo courtesy of Rebecca Russell)