ROCKLAND — Now that we’re heading into late fall, where Muck boots and long sweaters that double as Snuggis are considered fashionable, Rockland Main Street is bringing the glam back with its second annual “Rockland Has Style” fashion show tonight, Oct. 29, in the Knox County Ballroom at the Samoset Resort.

Gordon Page, the executive director of Rockland Main Street Inc., which is hosting the event, said that this is a unique way to bring more attention to the downtown businesses and community.

“There’s not a lot of fashion shows that go on around here,” said Page. “But we certainly have a lot of businesses who are happy to participate.” More than 20 businesses in fact, will be on hand to drape their models with clothing, cosmetics, hair, jewelry and accessories.

The way it works is that each business gets to do sort of a PechaKucha style presentation with their own models displaying their wares. Each business has up to six minutes to showcase three separate models walking for two minutes while the business owner narrates what they’re wearing.

“It’s basically an opportunity for businesses to do a live commercial in front of a live audience for hopefully up to 250 people.” said Page. And it’s also about entertaining the crowd while providing some gift-giving ideas for the fall and holiday seasons.

Asked how one can get people to actually pay to attend an event where they are essentially watching commercials, he said, “I’ve been in radio broadcast and music industry for a long time and a live show is always so much more fun than a canned program or commercial. You feel the energy, you have an opportunity to relax, have a couple of cocktails, a bite to eat.  In many ways, it’s kind of a Ladies Night Out when you go with some friends.”

The models had a blast last year and many are well known members of the community. Among others, models for the evening's events will include Chris Raye, Celia Knight, Kelly Woods, Janet Page, Maggi Blue and Chris Oliver. Makeup will be provided by RHEAL Day Spa, and hair styling will be provided by Coppola Salon and Day Spa.

“A lot of the models will just be getting off work and we’ve got people on hand to freshen up their makeup or do their hair,” said Page. And human models aren’t the only ones giving “face” to the crowd. There will even be clothing for pets on the runway.

North Atlantic Blues Festival promoter Paul Benjamin will emcee the event. And there may be some additional music once the presentations are over. There is even a rumor that the newly formed Knox County Camera Club might be on hand — gotta have some paparazzi!

Tonight’s event begins at 6 p.m. with a cash bar and complimentary light bites. FIORE will be on hand with an Artisan Olive Oils and Vinegars tasting table. The fashion show begins at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $15 per person, and are available at participating businesses, and at the door prior to the show. For more info visit Rockland Main Street Inc.’s Facebook page.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com