Before 2003, Milwaukee’s Third Ward was not particularly fashionable. In spite of the area’s industrial history, Carrie Arrouet and Stephanie Sherman saw potential. They crafted a business plan and strategically corralled resources to open one of the area’s first retail stores: Lela, an upscale boutique offering consignment and new women’s fashions.
“Lela has always provided shopping experiences that bring people together and lift them up," Arrouet said. "I personally love witnessing moments of transformation, not just with someone’s style but in the resulting boost in their confidence."
In the span of two decades, remarkable transformations have swept through what is now the vibrant Third Ward. Lela has been a constant through it all. In celebration of the store’s 20 years in business, a sold-out runway fashion event was held at the Milwaukee County Historical Society on Saturday, Oct. 7. Just like the community-centric vibe of the store, the anniversary runway show brought together players in Milwaukee’s fashion, art and business scenes as well as Lela fans and loyal customers.
“I’m so grateful to Laffey, Leitner & Goode LLC and Groom for Men who stepped up right away as partners for our anniversary event," Arrouet shared. "The evening was a true celebration for our community at large. In fact, Groom for Men is also marking a big milestone with its 25th anniversary. You could feel an abundance of joy and gratitude throughout the room."
The show kicked off with a mesmerizing performance by a Milwaukee drag legend, Miss BJ Daniels. By day, the artist is a beloved long-time Lela employee, Bjorn Olaf Nasett. The students of Milwaukee’s Edessa School of Fashion took over the runway next. Edessa’s founder Lynne Dixon-Speller and her students showcased a dynamic collection of wearable art featuring experimental uses of texture, fabrics, needlework and structured silhouettes, primarily in red as a tribute to Lela’s brand color.
Groom for Men graced also the runway with a parade of the latest trending hairstyles. The models didn’t just walk the runway; they surprised the audience with a cheeky choreographed performance.
Rounding out the show, guests enjoyed Lela’s ready-to-wear designs, featuring fashions available currently in the boutique. The imaginative looks included bold colors, flattering shapes, versatile accessories and a spectrum of sparkles. The grand finale was by local designer Shanel Regier, who presented a collection inspired by the iconic Lela dress sandwich board that, for decades, has been a beacon to shoppers strolling Broadway.
The anniversary bash was a fundraiser for an organization that is near and dear to Arrouet’s heart: the Women’s Fund of Greater Milwaukee. The mission of the Women’s Fund aligns well with the founding business principles of Lela.
“We started with consignment and resale first because we care about fashion that is accessible and affordable," she said. "No matter how much we grow, we are here for our community and aim to bring happiness to everyone who walks through our doors."
Here's a collection of photos from Saturday night's fashion show and the community gathered there to celebrate:
