/CW INTERN SKY ABNER | 21 Things I Learned at Milwaukee Fashion Week from a Fashion Perspective

A WORD FROM OUR INTERN SKY:

@mkefashionweek was such a fun experience to be apart of! I enjoyed seeing all the shows and doing interviews for @copywritemag

To all the wonderful people that I interviewed thank you so much for being apart of my short film. I wanted to add everybody but it would have been a movie.

Interviewees:
@jmacjr03
@hopemarieusa
@silversarkofficial
@shantiofficiall
@222iluvme_
@cielo.marisa
@pop_that_pooley
@_arturovelasco
@jvrvmyy.joelll
@pakou._.222
@gigiwagener
@julieannmaday

My love for fashion started when I was a kid. It was something passed down to me from both of my parents. My mom had a closet I would raid any chance I could get, which I still like to do to  this day. My dad collected ties, more than 500 of them, and he loved nothing more than putting on a sharp suit. Between the two of them, I grew up surrounded by style. 

I spent hours playing dress-up games, imagining the kind of spaces where fashion was not just  personal but celebrated. Living in Milwaukee, I always wished for a place where people like me, people who loved fashion in all its forms, had a community where that love could be shared  freely. 

Walking into Milwaukee Fashion Week, I realized that dream had found its home. For three days, I watched the city’s fashion community come alive. Designers, models, stylists,  photographers and volunteers all wove together into something bigger than a show. 

This year, the energy filled three different venues: the Milwaukee Public Museum, City Hall and  the Rivulet. Each space had its own story, from high-fashion archive pieces to the blueprint of streetwear and forms and figures. President Jeffrey McAlister called it “the reimagined, renewed and redefined Milwaukee Fashion Week,” and standing there in the middle of it all, I understood exactly what he meant. 

On the runway, the designs did more than turn heads; they told stories. Silversärk brought the  heat with daring, dramatic pieces that were impossible to forget, while Sam Graham Avant  Garde added sophistication, with looks so fly they made me double-take. Some pieces carried a retro flair that pulled me back to the 70s, a time I wasn’t born but still felt connected to through  his clothing. Then, during streetwear night came Arturo Velasco, whose work blended his culture  and love for Chihuahua, Mexico, transforming them into designs rooted in identity and storytelling. Fashion here was not just about fabric. It was about the designer’s voice, memory, and creativity. 

The models brought their own kind of magic. Some had known they wanted to walk the runway  since they were a kid, while others found their way here through friendship and community.  They reminded me that confidence matters as much as couture. The runway can be a family, a  place where people grow together and support one another. 

The backstage process was a world of its own, buzzing with urgency, laughter and the constant warmth of curling irons. Student and professional hair and makeup artists moved with precision, 

transforming models in minutes. Every detail, from beat faces to sculpted hair, mattered.  Watching it unfold felt like seeing another kind of art form, one that rarely comes alive in front  of the cameras. 

And speaking of cameras, the photographers were everywhere, capturing angles and moments that told their own story. Volunteers kept things running smoothly, helping people to their seats, making everyone feel welcome. 

Looking back at my great experience, I walked away with 21 notes from the past 3 nights: 

1. The city’s fashion scene is thriving and growing. 

2. Milwaukee Fashion Week has come a long way. 

3. Every venue told a story. 

4. The designer’s couture amazed me. 

5. Designers proved fashion can carry culture. 

6. Models reminded me that the runway is a family and that confidence matters.  7. Backstage is chaos and inspiration.  

8. Hairstylists push limits.  

9. Makeup turns faces into art.  

10. Photographers make moments last.  

11. Volunteers keep everything moving.  

12. The hosts feel the crowd and the room with energy. 

13. The community is inclusive and very kind. 

14. Everyone has a real love for fashion. 

15. Designers draw inspiration from everywhere.  

16. The runway is about storytelling.  

17. Every detail counts.  

18. Fashion in Milwaukee is about connection.  

19. Organizers want national recognition.  

20. Fashion shows are a celebration. 

21. And at the heart of it all, Milwaukee Fashion Week is about style, creativity and  community! 

As Julie Ann Maday, on the finance committee board, told me, “I want Milwaukee Fashion  Week on the map like Chicago, New York, or Paris. We have the designers, we have the talent,  we just need to keep building.” 

And after three nights of being in the middle of it all, I have the highest hopes for the future of  Milwaukee Fashion Week as well.

Here’s How Milwaukee Fashion Week Served Looks and Unified The Community

Photo Accredited To Designer, LaTasha Anderson

Did you know that when you walk out into the world, you’re expressing yourself in hundreds of ways every day? For some of you, it’s the songs blasting through your headphones as you’re walking down the street. While for others, it’s your daily rant on Twitter about the latest news in pop culture. Millions of people connect through sharing similarities in aesthetics and interests, whereas other connections are formed by the intrigue and differences of opinion between one another. In the world of fashion, runways, photo-ops, fabrics, and models are the gateway to self-expression of whose creating and what message they’d like to convey to the public. Big cities such as Los Angeles, New York, and Miami often get the credit for the innovation and liveliness of the fashion industry, but this weekend, one of the underdogs came in swinging and made a statement that will last for centuries. Our city, MILWAUKEE, was indeed the underdog who showed up and showed out with a purpose.

 Photo Accredited to Tay Sondelski

After hearing the words “Milwaukee Fashion Week”, a visual diary spun around in my mind with countless images and assumptions of what the weekend would entail. Eccentric looks, serene venues, and networking with a party twist is what I imagined. However, nothing could have prepared me for the creativity, euphoric atmosphere, and knowledge I experienced during this year’s Milwaukee Fashion Week. As a city native, it struck me that Milwaukee even held the power to create these bold and beautiful scenic environments. It often felt like I wasn’t even in the city I once knew, one of the major fashion capitals, such as Paris. Seeing the reactions of others in the audience, I instantly knew this thought was not only lingering in my mind. I quickly learned that it meant more to the community than just a night out on the town and feeling as if they were all in a Project Runway episode. Milwaukee Fashion Week 2025 strengthened the community in a severe way, which is why I began asking everyone just how significant and eye-opening the past weekend had been for them.

It amazes me how everynody counts us out. Milwaukee needs to be put on the map when it comes to all things fashion; from streetweat, high-fashion, and archive. We have amazing talent and merchandise right here in the city

-Model Coach & Professional Model, Julie Ann Maday

Milwaukee Fashion Week is important to me because it makes me as a woman feel seen and important. Seeing new designs and how models wear them gives me inspiration for how I rock my clothes and feel sexy!

-Guest, Angela Walker

Videos Accredited to /CW Desriana Gilbert

On Saturday, September 27th, 2025, my first adventure began at The Rivulet, located at 309 N Water Street, Milwaukee, WI. The evening was titled, The BluePrint, with the it girl of the hour being streetwear. As I witnessed the talented designers prepping their models and the adrenaline rushing chaos that we all know to love from a bird’s eye point of view, an epiphany came to me. Spaces such as these, highly anticipated fashion shows, are creating avenues for community members. One avenue is support for careers people never even knew they could have in Milwaukee. I talked with a number of photographers, models, and designers who never even believed this could be a financially stable career, let alone a consistent job flow. Milwaukee Fashion Week ignites the city with representation. The knowledge of not having to move to another city or give up on a dream because it feels out of arm’s reach was boldly shared with not only those who intensified the show but also with audience members as well. I learned that it is one of the leading forces that drives and motivates entrepreneurship in the city. All it takes is for people to see someone from the same city doing exactly what they’ve dreamed about for the city to be transformed into an emerging fashion mecca. The lively and electric night consisted of eight designers who each contributed homage to their own heritage, style, and message.

The Classic Shop

Photos accredited to /CW Desriana Gilbert

The Classic Shoppe, Lela Elizabeth, Aesthetic By Carlos, Designs By Deme, Arturo Velasco, The Wild West, $LEEPYHEAD, and Kingsawan Collective were the heavy-hitting line-up, and they did not come to disappoint; instead, the show already had guests and designers eagerly brainstorming ideas for next year!

The Blueprint: Streetwear Fashion Show not only highlighted how one’s ideas, aspirations, and goals can quickly turn into reality, but it also sparked legendary communal value, most of all! A multitude of guests revealed their vulnerable side and shared how MKE Fashion Week served as an optimistic reflection of the city. Every day, many of them tune into the local news and witness the complexity and dangers of Milwaukee, while others are in a state of survival. Being in tranquil venues while being exposed to stylish storytelling brings a certain kind of peace and comfort in a city where division and uncertainty are the trending topics on a daily basis. This night meant more than trench coats, high heels, and colorful moodboards; it served as a playful metaphor that the guests are the blueprint to the success of our city. Bold leadership and working together will always unify community members.

Photos Accredited to /CW Desriana Gilbert

The vibrant purpose of Milwaukee Fashion Week did not abruptly end on Saturday night; rather, it became more apparent the very next day and was free for everyone to come and enjoy. On Sunday, September 28th, 2025, a live exhibit entitled Forms and Figues was held at Milwaukee City Hall, located at 200 East West Street, Milwaukee, WI. This elegant and high-fashion themed exhibit caught my eye immediately by how inclusive, diverse, and open-minded it was. There was a mix of student designers, professional fashion designers, and fashion institutions that represented the thousands of ideas that run through their minds and become a breathtaking visual story. The unique element of having the designers and model stand on the same platform, while four to five chairs surrounded them, added a personal touch to the previous events held during the weekend. This provided a very rare interpersonal connection between audience members and designers, where people had the opportunity to ask any question they had for models or the designer, such as a piece of advice, designers to share their creative process, or what message they wanted people to take away from not only the look presented in front of them but their entire collection as well. This sparked much confidence, passion and motivation for the next generation of those who dream of being in the fashion industry.

Photos Accredited to /CW Desriana Gilbert

Photo Accredited to /CW Desriana Gilbert

Many believe fashion is superficial or doesn’t go beyond the surface level of movies such as, The Devil Wears Prada and Breakfast at Tiffany’s, but that’s far from the truth. Milwaukee Fashion Week is a living testament that knowledge, power, collaboration, support and creative freedom unifies a community. Think of fashion designers as the storytellers, models as the story, and audience members as ones who hold the power of how far the message reaches within the community for change and innovation to come.

Follow MKE fashion week on all platforms @mkefashionweek for an exclusive recap of this year’s itinerary if you missed it. Comment down below what you are excited to see next year!

Desriana Gilbert | Entertainment & Social Journalist for /CW

GET 10% OFF MKE FASHION WEEK 2025 TICKETS WITH OUR /CW FAM PROMO CODE

Shutting Down The Runway For A Purpose: Walk It Out Fashion & Hair Show 2025

All PHOTOs by /CW DESRIANA GILBERT

The world of fashion has had several wardrobe changes. What used to only be viewed as essential articles of clothing have now become symbols of identity, beliefs, values, and bold statements. Fashion is now used as the main gateway to not only introducing new trends but also to assist others in discovering who they truly are and how their voice is going to be used. The city has not been taking its foot off the gas ever since we’ve stepped on the scene. From versatile models, talented fashion designers, and artistic hairstylists, every day it seems as if someone is making their debut and changing the game shortly after. I had the pleasure of witnessing one of our very own fashionista revolutionaries shifting the true purpose of fashion recently. 

On Friday, (July 11th, 2025) The Walk It Out Fashion & Hair Show was presented at the Milwaukee County Zoo inside the Peck Welcome Center, located at 10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, between the hours of 6 pm and 10 pm. This was a fashion show unlike

any other. The vibrant event transformed the trajectory of the function and meaning that all fashion spaces hold. Creator and Head Executive of the fashion & hair show, Eddy B, prioritized advocacy, attention to detail, community recognition, and most importantly, a time to be had! As each person entered the venue, the lobby was filled with entrepreneurial vendors and a sneak peek showcasing of the designer-filled raffle baskets that kept the crowd on their toes the entire night. Coming from a family of givers as well as having a stellar radio personality career, planning an event with such a special purpose was no challenge for the team! The walls were covered with a color story of cherry reds, deep blues, and purple rain inspired lights that bounced off effortlessly into the audience. To prepare all attendees for an energetic and interactive night, host of Emmy-nominated television show Show Me Milwaukee, DJ Gee A, kicked off the night with show-stopping throwbacks as well as today’s hits behind the DJ booth. Once the clock struck 7 pm, the evening of glamour, allure, and mystique began. Nobody knew what to expect, but that’s always been the beauty of a Walk It Out Fashion & Hair Show. The only element of the presentation that never leaves any suspense or uncertainty is the creativity, boldness, excitement, and hype effect that each design and hairstyle the show brings year after year!

Since 2015, Eddy B and the Walk It Out team have incorporated much meticulousness, history, and versatility when selecting who would be gracing the stage, but most importantly, whose

designs, both clothing and hair, would be the main characters throughout the evening. This year was no different. Jeffrey McAlister Jr., president of MKE Fashion Week, was the first designer to boomerang us all into a new dimension with his clothing line, Fashion Sense. Each model strutting the runway represented Mcalister’s redefined and distinct vision of modern-day black culture. He designed the perfect balance of chic, sleek, and professional clothing. The patterns and colors used, such as different shades of brown and yellow, signified raising the bar for the everyday lifestyle of minorities while also dressing professionally to handle their business. Moments later, Luna Beauty Salon & Barber by Alex Diaz activated a human time machine during her segment. The audience shifted back into the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. A variety of unique elements were used to bring this time machine to life, such as flags, accessories, artwork delicately placed on the fashion, and inclusivity with disabled models. Not only did the models give face but they also exemplified personality by dancing with one another as they struck each pose. A rhythm quickly became in sync throughout the night with the remainder of the designers and hairstylists selected to participate in the show. 

Themes, liveliness, avant-garde looks, and the motivation for each creative were shared after every fashion collection was displayed to the public: 

• Ana Popa-A vibrant floral love story utilizing skin and lightweight materials. Her message and motivation is to make women of all backgrounds and sizes to feel sexy, confident, and comfortable in their own skin

• Les Fashionistas by Tatiana Rocio- Garden and fairy-inspired themed, whimsical clothing with intricate hair designs. Models were wearing hair crowns made out of their own hair. Models playfully threw objects such as roses to audience members, creating a sense of storytelling. Tatianna’s inspiration behind her brand is to keep walking to the light. She suffered 13 brain aneurysms and continues to persevere and find happiness in life.

• Naturally Naps- Licensed cosmetology instructor, Angela Jackson, showcased different loc hairstyles. Much dancing by the models was incorporated, and as each model walked out, they tapped onto one another, dancing into another pose. Jackson provided a representation of the beauty, health, and creativity of loc hairstyles.

• Leila Elizabeth- Her fashion line demonstrated the girl next door through a couture lens. The fall season inspired patterns primarily used were flannel and plaid. Hat and coat merchandise are displayed on the models. She described both her personal and design style as eclectic, with a primary focus on curvy women.

Two designers were also given their flowers towards the end of the vibrant presentation for the legacy being created as well as their mark throughout the city: 

• Gg Collections: Deborah Render has been a designer for over 2 decades and has been a designer for each of the five Walk It Out Fashion & Hair Shows. Luxury, leisure, and elegance is what the collection can be described as. Many materials such as fur, satin, silk, and lace were used to dress Gigi’s models. Every ensemble was body-sculpting. 

• The Right Amount of Ghetto- Fashion Designer, Carlos Vergara, was also given his flowers while being the last designer to present his creations. The inspiration behind the brand is to bring positive connotations to the word “ghetto,” as it is often associated with negative connotations. The Right Amount of Ghetto holds neo-soul, futuristic and modern-day black culture elements. 

Although the bar was raised high, being that this was the 5th and final walk of The Walk It Out Fashion & Hair Show, all expectations when it came to hair, makeup, fashion, and visuals were knocked out of the park. However, Eddy B made it his mission to make the priority of the night: awareness and advocacy for kidney disease and organ donation. From the beginning of Walk It Out’s legacy since 2013, awareness has always been the it girl of the show. Domestic violence was the very first cause dedicated to. 

“Each of our shows has always stood for something, and this time around, I wanted the show to support any individuals who suffer from chronic kidney disease and families who are affected by the silent killer.”- Eddy B 

His words were not the only effort in hopes of shifting and educating the narrative of kidney disease; it was the actions implemented into the night’s presentation that showed the genuine connection and passion for the cause. Speakers such as state representative Sequanna Taylor and CEO of the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin, Mike Crowley, were given the chance to speak in between the fashion and hair segments to emphasize the importance of kidney disease awareness, ways each one of us in the community can catapult its advocacy, and how the disease does not discriminate any race, age, community or gender. I learned shocking facts regarding the chronic disease that I never knew before walking through those venue doors. 

• 1 in 3 people in a room will experience kidney disease in their lifetime 

• By donating a kidney, you, as well as 5 people that you will receive vouchers for, get moved to the top of the list as a priority if you ever get kidney disease. 

• Kidney disease can be hereditary. 

A large portion of the proceeds received during this special night went to the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin, which partnered with the Walk It Out team for this very night of awareness as well as elegance. It definitely stood out immediately just how much the entire state of Wisconsin collectively agreed just how vital this message and event needed to be shared. Many showed their dedication by sponsoring the final walk. Sponsors included FashionSense, Resilient Rise LLC, Mr.Chicken, The Truth 101.7, and legendary host Bailey Coleman. Everybody showed up and showed out for a cause that’s rarely spoken about in many of our

households, let alone community events. The fashion, hair, makeup, and aura of each and every one in the building should be categorized as IN YOUR FACE! You couldn’t even tell that there was a nine-year hiatus since the last show because the entire night was on point and moving a purpose. Although the show was titled as “The Final Walk”, Eddy B confirmed to me that this does not mean Walk It Out is officially over and will never be revived. Go comment on all their Instagram and Facebook pages @walkitoutfashion_hairmke and share why there should be a next show and what cause should be given the spotlight next! 

Desriana Gilbert | Entertainment & Social Journalist for /CW  

CARPE DENIM: A Fashion Revival

Carpe Denim is a bold runway experience that reclaims the resilience, edge, and timelessness of denim. From repurposed streetwear to avant-garde couture, the show explores denim not just as fabric—but as metaphor: a symbol of durability, rebellion, and reinvention. Every piece on the runway is a testament to creative self-expression and the beauty of transformation.

Attendees can expect:

• One-of-a-kind denim designs

• Styled looks from emerging and established fashion visionaries

• Live music + immersive visuals

• A narrative-driven runway curated by Milwaukee’s own Carlos M Vergara Jr.

This isn’t just fashion. It’s a movement. A space where denim becomes both the canvas and the conversation—where street meets sophistication, and where ‘ghetto’ becomes gold.

NEW EPISODE ALERT | CREME DE LA STYLE | A Fashion Podcast Ft. Chris G - Fashion, Career, & Game-Changing Tips

Welcome back to Crème De La Style: A Fashion Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with Chris G, a fashion-forward creative whose journey in the industry has been fueled by style, innovation, and authenticity. Chris shares how fashion has shaped his career, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and where he’s headed next. He also drops major gems on how to incorporate fashion into your career and lifestyle—no matter what industry you’re in. If you’re looking for inspiration, game-changing style tips, or just real talk about the power of fashion, this episode is for you.

Crème De La Style Podcast | Premier Event, Friday, February 25th, 2025 at 9:00am

Crème De La Style: A Fashion Podcast— where we talk fashion, culture, and the creative game from the inside out

In this exclusive inaugural episode of Crème De La Style: A Fashion Podcast, host Carlos Vergara flips the script. Instead of the standard interview format, three dynamic voices from his journey take the lead to uncover what makes him the expert in all things fashion.

/Carlos M. Vergara Jr

"In My Home" Series | By Carlos M. Vergara Jr.

Carlos M. Vergara Jr.—more than a fashion enthusiast, more than a creative director, more than just style. A creator who moves with intention, deeply rooted in his culture, community, and self. Every vision I bring to life is a reflection of the creativity that runs through me, a tribute to the stories, people, and experiences that shape who I am.

“With that, I introduce In My Home—a series that invites you into my world, where inspiration meets intimacy, and where every frame tells a story of influence, identity, and expression.”

7EVEN STAR STUDIOS

 Since the beginning of time, fashion has been utilized for more than one purpose not only in culture but for all individuals as well. You hear everyday how people  claim they put that ish on but do they ever dive into why? For many people, clothing serves as a  way of expressing who they are without having to say too much, which keeps all eyes on them with a hint of mystery. OOTDs and fashion trends have a deeper meaning to very unique and creative people such as one of the mil’s most talented fashion designers, Rickey Roach. Roach is the CEO of 7even Star Studios, a clothing brand that has a holistic meaning and prioritizes one putting a stellar touch on everything they come into contact with. 

Now I know what you’re thinking… why the name 7even Star? Why not stop at 5 Star since that is popularly known as being the ultimate rating of the hottest restaurant, song, place or experience. Rickey stated that the number seven represents completion, rest, hard work has been done, and that much progression has been made in one’s individual journey. It all started with just a thought in high school that was never given any time to reach it’s full potential. “I was always the kid in class who had the entire Jordan outfit from head to toe with the matching shoes on. Always fly and put together.” the ambitious designer shared with us. After taking a year to teach himself how to design and showing his inner circle his work without telling them they were his for honest feedback, 7even Star Studios launched the summer of 2023 and has now been a Shoppable clothing brand in the inner city for over a year!

Determined, confident and ready to move with a sense of urgency is the message Rickey says he wants his brand to represent and share with its members. We live in such a hustle culture where many people either prioritize their goals or look good but never accomplish the balance of both. After reading reviews and browsing the website myself, I couldn’t agree more that 7even Star is the perfect combo of looking good while also being locked in on your mission to becoming the best you. Failure, success, and life lessons are inevitable in life but that doesn’t mean you have to look to’ up while going through it. Milwaukee, go get fly and stay consistent on your journey by shopping our guy Rickey Roach’s unisex brand, https://7evenstarstudios.com/. Comment down below on his latest IG post which fit is your favorite https://www.instagram.com/7evenstarstudios/. 

Desriana Gilbert/ Entertainment & Social Journalist for CW

/CW Presents: Bequest | Youth Led Fashion Event

Come join us for our FIRST EVER youth led fashion experience!

Bequest: (noun) a legacy.

CopyWrite Magazine presents this culminating experience at /CW HQ [ 2209 N MLK Dr. Milwaukee, WI 53212] on August 4th of 2023, from 4pm-7pm. You can expect a wonderful display of fashion from Cameron (Cam) Barker of, YEUX DU CIEL, Event Curation by Nahsialis Vang, Marketing & Space design by Frederick (Freddy) Calhoun and Event & Music Management by Jazale Hill, and Vato Vergara [/CW Creative Director] will Host.

You won't want to miss an exclusive surprise by the curators of this unique show!

[Food options & beverages will be available. Registration encouraged. Seats will be limited.]