Gallery Night Special: Meet C. Hawk Studios

One of the best parts of being located in the Third Ward is getting to be a part of great events like Gallery Night! Lela is hosting local artist Brittany Vogt, AKA C. Hawk Studios this Friday night to help the neighborhood celebrate. 

"I'm an artist. From the Midwest.
This identity is a driving force behind my work."

Brittany has lived all over the Midwest in five different states, and graduated from UW-LaCrosse with a BA in art. Her degree also has specialties in drawing, printmaking, and ceramics. Some of her prints will be on display at Lela starting this week!

“Milwaukee in all its lakeshore hugging, festival throwing, industrial sprawling, brewery touring and sport loving glory is now home.”

— Brittany Vogt, a true Milwaukean spirit

"Violet"

Founded in 2013, C. Hawk Studios specializes in fine art, illustration, and design. "Portraiture as an exploration of identity is a central theme throughout my work...I am fascinated by visual nuances that imbibe a place, portrait, or character with it's own unique identity which in turn defines that person or place," says Brittany of her work. 

You can visit www.c-hawkstudios.com, her Facebook page, or her Instagram feed to keep up with her work! And be sure to come and visit us this weekend to meet her and see her work in person!

Love, Lela 

Lela's Denim Shopping Guide

Like shopping for a swimsuit, buying jeans is usually a drawn out process. We've pulled together our best tricks for finding your perfect pair!

Be open-minded.
Being flexible in what you choose to try can yield happy results. Unless you have a very strict idea of what kind of jeans you're looking for, trying a wide variety of cuts, washes, and colors is important.

Length is always negotiable.
It's impossible for brands to sell everybody's perfect jean... but if it ticks all your boxes beside length, give it a go! Hemming is inexpensive and an easy skill to learn.

Draw attention to long legs

Embellishments like embroidery, studs, or faded wash on the legs draws the eye down the leg.

Be familiar with your measurements...
Since some women's brands number their jeans by waist measurements, knowing your waist measurement can be helpful in finding the right size.

...But don't get hung up on the sizing.
Size is relative, even within a brand. Don't feel bad about getting a size that's different from your usual - so long as it fits nicely!

Flared legs for everyone

Flared leg or bootcut jeans are flattering on most people! They balance out wide hips or shoulders with volume on the bottom. 

Avoid trends when you find a style that works for you.
Jeans are a year-round staple. For trend-trying, why not a top or an accessory? 

Have the right mindset.
Set aside enough time for yourself to go shopping for jeans. It's not necessary even to buy anything - just trying on a wide variety of styles and brands can tell you more about what you like and which brands work for you. 

It's all in the details

Want to draw attention to or emphasize your butt? embellishments are the way to go. On the flip side, go for a style without pockets or details if you want to draw attention away from that area. 

Most importantly.... Be kind to yourself!
If you're struggling to find a pair of jeans that fit Just Right, remember: it's not you, it's the clothes!

So what are your denim shopping tips? Let us know in the comments down below or on our Facebook page!

Love, Lela ♥

Jump for Joy: Lela's Ode to Jumpsuits

Is there anything better than a jumpsuit? It's an instant outfit, no effort required. And they're not just a summer staple: we've got styles in for all types of weather. 

via the Blush Buffalo instagram page

Basic But Beautiful
Are you in on this secret gem? These Last Tango jumpsuits are a bestseller that work for almost everybody. Try it with sneakers and a denim jacket for a casual look, layered over a turtleneck with bold jewelry in the office, or with heels and sparkly accessories for night events. 

Holiday Party Hopper
Velvet is everywhere for fall and winter this year, and it's no surprise: this lush material makes any piece look luxe. We just adore these velvet jumpsuits from Freesha in wine and steely blue!

Babe on a Budget: Consignment Jumpsuit
Even your backless summer favorites can make it into fall and winter with the power of layering! We are loving this mesh turtleneck (also in black and light grey). 

What do you think? Will you be rocking a jumpsuit this season? Let us know in the comment section below or on our Facebook page!