Kate Miles: Fundraising for Fashion Week

A couture gown from Kate's Couture 2016 line to be shown at LA Fashion Week.

At their home in rural Scio, 16-year-old Katherine Miles and her mom Rebecca Miles scrambled to make sure all the details were taken care of. They made sure each seat adorned a handwritten sign with the guest's name, that each table was decorated with fresh flowers, and that all place settings were complete. Then, the rains stopped and the skies cleared just in time for the tea party to begin.

Held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 21, the event was the second of two sold out sessions this past weekend fundraising for Miles' debut at Los Angeles Fashion Week. Designing since she was 12 years old, this will be her fourth Fashion Week appearance, but her first to the star-studded Los Angeles runway.

As their front yard turned into a parking lot, about 60 ladies arrived in style, many wearing dresses and heels. A volunteer pianist played as guests took their seats. The soft green floral walls of their home and an entire wall of windows, lit the venue like spring had come early.

With a $30 donation per person, the tea party included a five course meal of tea, sorbet, mini sandwiches, scones, and dessert. All food was donated by La Tea Da Tea shop in Tillamook. All flowers were donated by Morning Glories Floral in Albany. A half dozen of Miles' friends volunteered as dishwashers and servers.

As attendees dined and sipped in the hour leading up to the main event, Miles hustled in her basement studio preparing 10 models for the show. She had the help of many, including a professional makeup artist that volunteered her services.

Melinda Sorte of Albany brought her 11-year-old grandniece, Addy, to see the show. Not knowing Miles beforehand, Sorte wanted to attend after reading about her in the newspaper.

"We just think it's fascinating that she's a young person doing so well," said Sorte. "I called her up and I told her I needed two tickets."

Sabine Clevenger has known Miles, her son's classmate, about four years.

"She made some sleazies for my horses when I first met her, and I have a skirt from her," said Clevenger.

Jyssica Yelas graduated from Oregon State University last year with a degree in merchandising management, and now styles women at a boutique in Portland. She drove down for the event and was impressed with the elegance of the meal, the venue, and of Miles' designs.

"I feel like I'm in some sort of a storybook," Yelas said.

As the diverse crowed ages eight to 80 watched, models graced the red carpet runway and pseudo stage set up in their living room.

The sneak-peak of outfits and gowns Miles will take to Los Angeles revealed a young, fresh, whimsical collection. Since December, she has been busy sewing 12 of her newest looks.

Miles prides her creations as one of a kind. All are handmade and sourced from thrifted garments blended with found fabrics. One of the gowns was even decorated with pieces of broken mirror.

"My brother Daniel was down on the ground hammering mirrors for me," Miles said.

Miles, who still wears braces, worked the crowd like a seasoned hostess and designer. She was humble and grateful as she thanked her mentors, volunteers, and donators. After the show, attendees lined up to shake her hand, asked for her autograph, and took photos with the budding designer.

With the help of the community, the success of the weekend's fundraiser has solidified Miles' attendance to LA Fashion Week March 13-17. Both Miles and her mom were overwhelmed with the generosity that made it possible.

"We got checks in the mail from people that didn't know me," Miles said. "I feel blessed we've had so much support."

"We aren't contacting anyone, they've all been contacting us. It just amazing," her mom added.