When thinking of high fashion, cutting edge style, and crowded runways, it’s safe to say Milwaukee isn’t the first place that comes to mind. Though its reputation in the world of fashion stands firmly behind New York, Los Angeles, Miami and, yes, even Chicago, Milwaukee isn’t all decorative sweaters, flannel, and ill-fitting Packers jerseys. Not unlike the city’s vastly undervalued music and comedy communities, the city is rife with skilled and imaginative designers, dedicated models, and an increasingly crowded itinerary of fashionable events. Still, Milwaukee designers, models, and stylists continue to struggle to find their own identity amongst a populace who, at large, might not be aware they’re even here.
To help delve deeper into the state of Milwaukee fashion and design, style-challenged host Tyler Maas asked a diverse group of local experts to join him in Milwaukee Record HQ to share a few too many bottles of Ale Asylum and their unique insight in this unsung-but-growing part of the city. Tyler was joined by longtime local model/makeup artist Elyse Cizek—pictured above—(who since moved to L.A. after this podcast was recorded), Milwaukee Magazine writer/associate editor/style writer Claire Hanan, and area designer Vanessa Andrew, who produces garments for her Madam Chino line. The sound of a weed wacker and chainsaw also make brief cameos!
As always, this episode is brought to you by our friends at Ale Asylum, which was enjoyed on air, and 42 Ale House/42 Lounge. Music in this episode comes courtesy of NO/NO (“Crooked Faith”) and GGOOLLDD (“Bling Ring”). Subscribe to On The Record via iTunes or Stitcher (for free!)