On September 7th, Natalie M Studio will host the Fashion Alfresco show. Thirty-eight young women from around the Kansas City Metro will walk the runway in dresses and gowns perfect for homecoming. This free event will take place in front of Natalie M's shop at the Town Center Plaza in Leawood, starting at 11 a.m.
This show will be the first public event for the Studio's Style Squad. These are high school girls of all backgrounds who not only have the opportunity to model but also develop skills as role models through community service.
Owner Lisa Carson explains, "It isn't just about being pretty. It's really about your character and giving back to your community. Things that make you the best woman you can be."
Since 1973, Natalie M Studio has been the city's premier destination for selecting formalwear. However, there is more to their mission than just selling gowns and tuxedos for weddings, proms, fashion shows, and events. The designer shop believes in making everyone they serve feel magical as well as spreading kindness to various community organizations.
Carson first encountered the store when her daughter was in a fashion show in the late 2000s. These shows allowed kids to earn money for scholarships and support their extracurricular activities. Her daughter was a shy, bookish person who never saw herself as someone who would have a spot on a stage. But she loved it! Carson loved being backstage, surrounded by all the sparkle and glitz, helping the girls get ready.
"I also had the chance to spend time getting to know owner Natalie Nearenberg and her vision, 'Women can decide what they're capable of. We can't let other people tell us what we can and can't do.' I really felt connected to that vision, so I went to work for them in 2010 and took over the shop when she retired in 2023," Carson said.
Shopping at Natalie M is an experience beyond buying a gown. It is a closed studio, which means clients must schedule an appointment to visit for a one-on-one experience. The stylist takes the time to get to know the client, being mindful of their needs, such as budget, venue, and event. Because of the staff's knowledge of body silhouettes and types, it is not unusual for a client to walk out the door with something completely different from their inspiration pictures.
Carson says the goal is to make sure the client feels authentic and that what they wear makes them feel like the best version of themselves.
"They have to feel beautiful and comfortable. If they don't feel all those things, I don't want to sell them that dress."
Also crucial to the Natalie M team is community support. Each month, the Style Squad has the opportunity to serve various non-profit organizations. If a girl is passionate about a project, Carson will take her along to do the donation so she can learn how to become more involved. Also, the girls can apply for a community grant, which is presented in their name to the organization.
Natalie M Studio supports groups like the Veterans Community Project and Operation Breakthrough. Additionally, the shop continues to offer scholarships at its featured prom fashion show in February.
To learn more about the Natalie M Studio experience and make an appointment, visit nataliem.com. The shop is located at 4809 W. 117th Street in Leawood, next to Barnes & Noble.
Carson notes, "Especially today, I encourage people to shop small and local. It's so important right now, and every dollar that you spend is invested back into your community."