Wearing a red sheath dress, blue jacket, gloves, hat and open-toed heels, Taylor Kemp is ready to hit the show ring in the Sheep Pavilion at the Missouri State Fair. It is not the typical attire for the 16-year-old, who shows sheep — but during the Show-Me Lead Line competition, it is just what the judges require.

Just one day earlier Kemp was in blue jeans and state fair T-shirt exhibiting her animals in the FFA breeding sheep show. She raises the Shropshire breed at her family's home near Macon, Mo. Kemp eyed two bottle lambs at the age of 7 and never looked back. A friend helped her find the right shows and sales to attend to improve her flock. Eventually, she started showing in 4-H and later FFA. And every year, while at the state fair, she takes one day to dress up in outfits made from wool.

Make it with wool
"This is different for me," the Macon FFA member says. "I am not a girlie girl, so dressing up is not something I do often." Still, Kemp says it is important that she participate.

"We need to show others why we do what we do," she says. "Raising sheep for meat is one thing, but sheep also produce wool for clothing." The Show-Me Lead Line competition features clothing made from wool.

According to the Missouri State Fair website, the purpose of the event is "to present a class of beauty, to acquaint the public with modern sheep production, and to promote the use of wool by demonstrating its beauty, versatility and source."

Sharing fiber surprise
With the bleachers surrounding the show ring full, Kemp says it is a great time to explain the importance of wool and sheep production to fairgoers. "They need to be able to look at clothing and think of wool, and to realize that sheep produce that wool."

The competition is open to any exhibitor or individual sponsored by a breed of sheep at the Missouri State Fair. Kemp and her fellow competitors must wear wool or wool-blend outfits, either purchased or made. Contestants lead a ewe or female sheep around the ring.

Sadly, she admits it takes searching through retail clothing stores to find anything that is made of 100% wool. She says many people think of wool as heavy material that keeps them warm. That is true. But it is also breathable when blended with other fibers and creates comfortable, professional clothing like her sleeveless dress. This year, a friend helped construct her outfit.

Ageless competition
The competition is open to any age. It starts with a Pee Wee Fun Line, where children ages 7 and under can lead a lamb around without being dressed in wool clothing — however, some do wear wool. Then it moves to the competition, with junior, intermediate and senior classes that accommodate anyone from 8 years of age to ages 40 and over.

Missouri State Fair awards ribbons for placing, along with cash. The Missouri Sheep Producers also provides cash awards, scholarships and gift cards to winners.

"I like the competition," Kemp says. "I wear something new every year. I get to spend time with my friends and enjoy it."