The Third Ward houses what most closely resembles Milwaukees fashion district. Womens Wear Daily, an international trade publication, also considered the fashion bible to those in the industry.

Paris, New York, Milan.

Upon hearing these three names, one typically thinks of the grand fashion capitals of the world. Increasingly other cities, however, are becoming fashion savvy, even producing up-and-coming designers of their own.

Even our humble Milwaukee is jumping on the bandwagon with a burgeoning fashion scene that offers big names in a trendy atmosphere.

The other aspect of Milwaukee fashion that has many talking is the new cropping of fashion shows.

Though cute and trendy boutiques are located throughout the Milwaukee area in cities such as Mequon and Brookfield, the Third Ward houses what most closely resembles Milwaukees fashion district.

Womens Wear Daily, an international trade publication considered the fashion bible to those in the industry, profiled five boutiques in the Third Ward in a 2004 issue. The boutiques included J.Bird, Lela, Hers, Blush Beauty and Moda 3.

The Third Ward shops not only talk the talk, but also walk the walk, creating a fashion buzz reminiscent of larger, more established cities. Throughout the year, area boutiques participate in or host fashion shows to highlight current collections and raise money for charitable organizations.

One of the longest running and most esteemed Milwaukee fashion shows is one hosted by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra each November. The Symphony Style show has featured such well-known designers as Badgley Mischka, Oscar de la Renta and Halston.

The most recent show in the area occurred in March to raise money for the Sojourner Truth House. It featured mens and womens fashions from Miss Groove, Lela, m.e. Lou and Aala Reed.

Generally, benefit shows are gala affairs where guests must purchase expensive tickets to attend. For a more genuine fashion show experience that does not weigh down the pocketbook, try attending individual boutiques or a local designers show.

One upcoming show will be hosted by local designer Shanel Regier and only charges $10 for general admission or $20 for reserved seating (compared to $250 or $110 for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Sojourner Truth House shows).

Her show, called Parisian Roots: Performance in Couture, will be held on April 21 at Milwaukee Turner Hall.

Another show to watch for is one hosted by Lela Boutique in September, featuring fashions from the boutique and a variety of local designers who sell their goods at the shop. To create a truly glamorous effect, Lela will close down Broadway Street in the Third Ward and set up big, white, New York Fashion Week-like tents.

These are just a few of the more notable shows and events that happen in the area, but there are certainly many more. Since the fashion scene is still growing in Milwaukee, coverage of fashion shows is minimal, and one must keep a keen eye out for such events.

The best way to stay in the know is to sign up for the mailing lists of individual boutiques, because they are the true patrons of Milwaukee fashion and keep customers up to date on local happenings.

> Comments