Every neighborhood in our metropolis has what I would call “visionaries” or even “urban pioneers.” Such is the case with Stephanie Sherman and Carrie Arrouet, co-owners of Lela Boutique on Broadway in the Third Ward. Deciding to open a clothing boutique that featured carefully edited vintage clothing with new emerging fashion designers was a gamble in the landscape of the Third Ward in 2003. At that time, things were just starting to percolate, retail-wise, and it hadn’t yet become a bona fide “destination” area. But with their vision, foresight and love of great design, they went ahead and transformed a 1,200- square-foot space in what was once a warehouse district into a showcase for fashionable ideas. “If we love it, we sell it at Lela” is their mantra. Milwaukee designer Shanel Regier also figures into the mix here, as these 
busy gals have championed her frocks and featured her as their “exclusive” muse since the store began.
Every year they’ve mounted a large-scale fashion extravaganza to celebrate all that their boutique stands for, both in the community and to their loyal customers. The enormous white tent has become a familiar sight to all who have attended their soirees, held on the blocked-off street directly in front of their store. The catwalk stomp itself was comprised of three segments showcasing the fashion of neighboring store Lorena Sarbu of Beverly Hills as well as fresh looks from veteran menswear retailer Aala Reed on Brady Street. The production quality of the show was amazing and reminded me of Fashion Week in NYC. While attendees sipped cocktails pre-show in the bar area, I couldn’t help but notice that the crowd was comprised of a veritable “who’s who” of Milwaukee style scenesters.
L
orena Sarbu of Beverly Hills opened a Midwestern outpost here in the Third Ward less than a year ago, and immediately jumped right into the swing of the local boutique scene. Featuring everything from cocktail dresses, wearable separates, to jewelry and handbags from designers in Paris, Milan and London, this store is a welcome addition to the Broadway fashion district. The store featured a range of ensembles, but focused on the glamour dresses that the store is becoming known for. My favorite was a bright printed cocktail dress, which had a wrap effect. In shades of fiery orange, black and goldenrod, it was the standout to me of their segment.
Aala Reed on Brady Street knows that “every girl’s crazy ‘bout a sharp-dressed man,” as the ZZ Top song touted. By carrying a variety of suits as well as high-end casual wear, they clearly separate the men from the boys where fashion is concerned. I liked the fact that the styling on their male models was right on target with the way men actually should consider dressing. Using pieces like cardigans, blazers and statement jeans as the anchors to their wearable looks.
Shanel Regier is an anomaly in that she has a strong creative vision but also works to expand and redefine her formidable talents season by season. This show was no different. I was struck by her impeccably tailored dresses that she is famous for. Somehow the fabric choices and styling seemed fresh and inventive, even though they employed many of her trademark lines, such as corseted bodices and tailored sheath dresses. I loved her new interpretation of knitwear dresses. With asymmetrical hems and a simple and unstructured look, she created wearable yet interesting new silhouettes that most any woman could pull off.
These types of events are why I love Milwaukee and promote it as a fashion resource to the people I meet on my travels and in everyday life. We should be extremely proud to have so many talented artists, designers and business owners 
who want to elevate culture and style for everyone. Ideas and energy are what truly create fashion savvy that endures, and I for one am glad that we have the Lela gals to provide it!
Thanks to Rafal Krolik at sevillemedia.com for allowing me to use his fabulous runway shots! Next week, I’ll clue you in to three upcoming benefit fashion events that you won’t want to miss. Helping our city and your own style become world class is as simple as buying a ticket.
