After years of attending countless school dances and proms, two sisters from the Lehigh Valley have been stocking up on gowns, cocktail dresses and other formal wear. With a wardrobe full of elegant evening attire that's still in excellent condition, Rebecca and Rian Ramos decided to open up their closet to friends and less fortunate teens that are in search of a perfect dress for a special night.
Formally known as My Sister Closet, “Ms. Chiffonier” is a volunteer-based project founded by Rebecca and Rian Ramos. Residing in Center City Allentown, Rebecca, 21, and Rian, 13, are a dedicated duo focused on helping teenage girls experience school formals without the financial burdens that come along with it.
When Rebecca went to her high school prom, she realized how costly the event could be when added up. Through the years, she's noticed many girls haven't been able to attend dances because of this issue. The idea that initially sparked their volunteer efforts occurred when Rian was interested in helping a friend find a dress for a formal. Rebecca happily opened her closet and welcomed Rian's friend to take any dress she wanted. From then on, the Ramos sisters continuously worked as a charitable clothing boutique, lending dresses to friends and other young women who were in need.
During the summer of 2014, the duo began thinking of ways to take their project to the next level. As the sisters kept replenishing dresses over time, more young women were seeking them for assistance. From eighth grade dances to extravagant proms, Rebecca and Rian have helped more than ten teenage girls within their community attend dances and formal functions. According to Rebecca, the ultimate goal of this project is, “For young teens to experience dances and to help them out. We like to see them smile.”
This past October, the Ramos sisters presented their organization and were approved by TeamWorks International. The pair recently changed their name to “Ms. Chiffonier” so their endeavor would not be confused with another worthy local organization with a similar name. By putting a creative twist on the French word for closet, Ms. Chiffonier is the new moniker for the girls' volunteer mission.
The sisters partnered with St. Luke's Church in Allentown to launch a premier collection event last November. The church held a successful gown donation and cupcake giveaway. After the donations were placed, the gowns were gathered and sent to be dry-cleaned. Come May, all the dresses were ready to be distributed for prom season. Their current goal is to hold two separate donation events of this type per year—one in November and another in April. Ms. Chiffonier welcomes year-round donations, as well.
In the winter, Rian and Rebecca, along with the rest of the Ramos family, are a part of another volunteer project called Snow Angels. Since 2010, the Ramos family has been shoveling snow covered sidewalks and driveways for senior citizens. The sisters have had a busy winter with volunteering, working and school, but they will soon pick back up again with Ms. Chiffonier come spring, just in time for those school dances to roll around.
Currently Rian and Rebecca are in the process of making flyers for their April donation event, and plan on distributing them to local businesses and area schools to get the word out. The Ramos sisters hope that as they continue their effort, their organization will benefit as many young girls as possible.
For more information, find Ms. Chiffonier on Facebook. To make a donation, email Rebecca at ramosrebecca54@yahoo.com or millystore@yahoo.com.
