Thursday, April 23, 2009 — Millsberry fashionistas: prepare — or beware — because temptation is here! Loretta Rivers has let her spring fashion line loose. That's right, the Wearhouse boutique has been restocked with all-new spring items, ready to take you from the school playground to weekend fun, and back again.

The Gazette headed over to the store for a sneak peek, only to find ourselves surrounded by a spread of fake palm trees and sand. We sat down with Loretta for a quick Q & A:

Gazette: "Loretta! What is all this? Aren't you showcasing new clothing?"

Loretta: "Well, this year we're going to introduce the new line by throwing a fashion show! We're actually building a runway right now and, as you can see, the store's interior is based on the hot safari theme that's so popular this season!"

Gazette: "Wow. It must be quite a line. Care to share a bit about what we should expect?"

Loretta: "Well, it's a 'mixed bag.' We've got everything from safari-style jackets to golf-inspired plaid pants.

Gazette: "And what would some of those light-hearted pieces include?"

Loretta: "Well, we have a nice watercolor-print dress that's almost sold out!"

Gazette: "Do you create the designs yourself?"

Loretta: "No. But I did design these!" (She kicks up her feet to show off a pair of yellow rain boots with red umbrellas dancing all over them.)

Gazette: "Hopefully those aren't on back order. We could all use a cute pair of rain boots for those April showers! So, what's hot this season in men's fashion?"

Loretta: "Men's fashion is a lot of fun this year. When it comes to color, anything goes. I told you about those plaid golf pants — well, those are for guys! (Laughs.) I'd tell you more, but I need to leave a little mystery for the shoppers."

Gazette: "And who'll be modeling in the show?"

Loretta: "I'll only reveal two of them, for the time being. The first is reigning snowboard champion Kelly Kimbell. Now that winter is over, she's back and ready to go. And then there's Coach Danner. He volunteered because, believe it or not, he used to be a runway model!"

Gazette: "Well, he definitely has the height for it! Wow — you learn something new every day, huh? So, one more question: do you need an extra model?"

Loretta: "Ha! Well — how do you feel about showing off some tie-dye?"

Gazette: "Only if it comes with a guaranteed spot in one of those an open-air safari jeeps!

Loretta: (laughs) "Well?"

Interview concluded, the Gazette headed out. However, we couldn't help but notice different citizens — all balancing books on their heads! Runway-model practice, perhaps? There is always something brewing in Millsberry, so be sure to check out the new spring items at the Wearhouse. It's sure to add a little zing — or bling — to your spring!