Boutique presents an inclusive vision of wedding fashion

Wedding season arrived here in Milwaukee as Miss Ruby Boutique hosted the RISE: A Bridal Fashion Show at the Pritzlaff building.

The venue was decorated in white and pink roses and had dark wooden chairs lined up with Miss Ruby Boutique tote bags made for each guest. The swag bags included merchandise from local businesses. 

The runway was lit up in purple lights and was formed in an L shape that followed the layout of the venue’s black pillars. The atmosphere was brightened by guests, dressed in formal and classy evening wear, while sipping on drinks and socializing.  

Miss Ruby Boutique has always strongly expressed that love is for all, and through that, all proceeds of the event went to the LGBTQ+ community here in Milwaukee.  

“Being a part of the Miss Ruby Family, means that inside and outside of the Boutique, we believe wholeheartedly that the amount or type of love one deserves is not defined by who they love, who they pray to, how they identify, or the color of their skin,” said Sadee Kotowski, the sales manager of Miss Ruby Boutique. “We believe that love is resilient – love conquers all and everyone is worthy of it.”  

The event truly represented Kotowski’s words as it started off with a speech of encouragement and empowerment for love. When the music began, women in wedding gowns appeared from behind the curtains.  

This year, they showcased bridal fashion styles from simplicity to glamorous. 

The models represented more diversity and inclusivity.  

“Over the past few years, we’ve hosted our Illuminate bridal fashion show, but 2022, is the year for firsts. RISE: A Bridal Fashion Show, was an immersive fashion experience and representation of inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment,” Kotowski said.  

The collection included gowns in various shades of white, as well as dresses in cool tones of blue, orange, and neutral colors. There were floral designs, gold sparkles, velvet and satin textures, and sequins.  

The collection didn’t miss out on mini-dresses or mid-length. 

Miss Ruby Boutique showed up with all-around styles and with models who embodied the diversity of the show’s theme. This was their way of expressing the importance of feeling comfortable in bridal fashion. 

“As a boutique and as individuals, we have always done everything in our power to create a safe and welcoming space for all members of our community to come together to enjoy this portion of the wedding planning process,” Kotowski said.  “We never want anyone to feel unwelcome or at risk inside of our boutique. Part of creating a safe and welcoming environment is keeping an open line of communication with our clients.”

When the show wound down and the collection was complete, the music shifted to uplift the audience and engaged everyone in a celebratory dance. The models bounced to the beat down the runway in smiles to end the event.  

“We hoped that this year’s event would create a space for all members of the Milwaukee community to gather and enjoy one another’s company as we embrace the new normal together. I believe we did just that. It was amazing to see everyone come together to celebrate,” Kotowki said.