The theme for this seasons show was The Mad Hatter and Alice in Wonderland; of course this was not released until the actual show.

As fashion trends change and evolve, so does the landscape of fashion. Milwaukee fashion is continuously evolving. Those in the know consider Shanel Regeir one of the premier local designers, a fresh face in fashion.

A write-up in Womens Wear Daily confirms this esteemed title. Her styling always hints towards Victorian romance, but as her famous corsets would suggest, not all of her designs are quite so innocent.

Shanel showed her fall 07 collection on April 21 in the Historic Turner Ballroom, and those in attendance can attest to the fact it was packed. Mother Nature was on Shanels side, providing a beautiful spring day, giving way to a clear, cool evening. This allowed all the beautiful people to comfortably wear open shoes, and no coats, way chicer than bulky winter wear.

The theme for this seasons show was The Mad Hatter and Alice in Wonderland; of course this was not released until the actual show. Some 30-plus looks graced the runway, half with an air of whimsy and innocence, the others a little darker and mischievous.

While this is technically a fall show, meaning the clothes are intended for fall wearing, the variety of textures, colors and materials make the collection wearable through the spring into the fall.

While the show was divided in its theme, the looks went down the runway one after another, first Alices, then the Mad Hatters, and so on. The Alices wore short balloon dresses and voluminous trapeze coats in shades of white, light blue and pink.

On the other hand, Mad Hatters were swathed in more neutral colors like brown, dark green and tan with tight turtlenecks, high-waisted skirts and witty top hats. Each group sported Shanels signature corsets, some retaining the classic design, and others with belt buckle closures instead of the usual ribbon.

In addition to the show itself, a silent auction raised money for the Shanel Regier Art in Fashion Fund. The fund offers one art student with junior or senior standing a grant or scholarship. A sculptor by trade and Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design graduate, Shanel understands the difficulties aspiring artists face.

As Shanel continues to learn and grow as a designer and artist, her work becomes more focused and her points of view more clear.

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