Ah, fall. Cooler temps, changing leaves and fashion events. Annual favorites and newbie fashion shows and events are cropping up all over Milwaukee. They are the place to see and be seen – and what you’re seen in while at the event is almost as important as what’s coming down the runway.
I checked out MKE Fashion Night Out at Bacchus and the always-memorable Lela Fashion Show. Two very different events, but both required a well-thought out, head-turning outfit.
Fashion events tend to be glitzy, glamorous and compelling. So should your outfit.
Some believe it’s proper etiquette to arrive decked out in the designer’s creations. While in theory this is a great idea – it’s not always realistic for everyone’s wallet. That’s ok. Use creativity to create a look that’s appropriate. Fashion events are a time to show off your personal style.
By the looks of it, most event attendees put as much time into their wardrobe prep as the sponsors put into producing the events. One thing’s for sure – Milwaukeeans know how to turn up the fashion dial.
At the Lela Fashion Show, I picked up on a lot of glam rock, polished boho and military chic. Fur and feathers – think faux animal prints and wispy fringe accents – are staple statement pieces that prove people were not afraid to take a look and look fierce. I say the best way to pull off a bold look is to be comfortable in your own skin.
Although no rules apply to your attire, they do when it comes to your behavior. Have fun, but remember: you’re at an event that took several people months to pull off. It’s your chance to rub elbows and swap style tips with other attendees – it is not the time to steal the show so to speak.
Real-deal fashion shows tend to have seating charts. It’s pretty simple. If you’re not assigned to that front-row seat, don’t sit there. They’re typically reserved for big buyers, editors or designers.
Yes, there tends to be gift bags. No, you should not grab and go. Some gift bags come at a price (reserved seating), and others are a thank-you-for-attending. Enjoy the event while you are there and mull over the contents of your party favor at home.
When you see something you like, let it be known. I was giddy to see Shanel Regier’s structured black vests sashay down the runway. Applaud when appropriate, but don’t be disruptive. Thankfully, Milwaukee’s events are not straight-laced. Texting, blogging, photography and the occasional shout-out are typically encouraged.
Street Scene
• Spotted: Gena, Bayside resident
• Locale: Lela 7th Anniversary Fashion Show, Third Ward
• Look: High-style, faux real
• What to love: Cape with cinched waist and black faux fur collar in an eggplant hue is the perfect topper for an evening that was cool in more ways than one.
