BANGOR – When Alexandra Turallo approached me to speak at “Image, Style & Fashion 2005,” I couldn’t resist. First, I write about fashion and style, and, let’s be honest here, I shop for a living. But the real allure was the cause. Turallo is a member of Bangor’s Zonta Club, which works to advance the status of women through scholarship, literacy and service.

The event, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Spectacular Events Center in Bangor, is a twist on the traditional fashion show. Among the highlights are booths on health and beauty services, guest speakers such as myself and Sharon Pelletier of WABI-TV5, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

“We wanted to bring something to Bangor that would be more exciting and in a way more contemporary [than Zonta’s previous fashion shows],” Turallo said. “We wanted something that has the capacity of growing.”

The event’s organizers didn’t want to do makeovers. Instead, they wanted to help local women accentuate – and celebrate – what they already have. Pelletier, a former Miss Maine, will address the importance of a positive self-image. Other speakers will discuss wardrobe coordination, shopping tips and healthy eating.

“How do I accessorize? Am I using the right makeup? What other choices do I have for shoes?” Turallo asked. “That’s what we were thinking. Let’s make it more fun, more interesting. People can touch things and see things and buy things.”

A variety of vendors will be on hand, selling everything from fine fashions to jewelry and accessories. Visitors will also have the chance to ask about – and in some cases sample – spa services, electrolysis, cosmetics and fitness facilities in a no-pressure environment.

“You can ask questions without an obligation and you can learn about places you may have never shopped at or considered before,” Turallo said.

If you go, you’ll also help Zonta support local charities and provide scholarships to local women.

And philanthropy is always in style.

Tickets cost $5 and are available at the door or in advance at Garden Cafe in Bangor or Kathy’s Hair Fashions in Bar Harbor. Kristen Andresen can be reached at 990-8287 and kandresen@bangordailynews.net.