Middleton, WI September 2024

September is for Style

As summer turns to fall, we are thrilled to present our Style Issue. While the Madison area may not be widely known as a fashion hotspot, I was amazed to discover the variety of style trendsetters within our community. This issue is a testament to the creativity and passion that define our local scene. We feature two exceptional businesses owned by Middleton High School graduates who are making significant con tributions to our fashion community.

First, we introduce you to Fine Line Custom Attire, founded by Mitch Bram. With a mission to create “clothes that suit you,” Mitch and his partner Samantha offer custom suits with an unparalleled level of personalization and white-glove delivery service. Their dedication to craftsmanship and client satisfaction sets a new standard in custom attire.

Next, we spotlight Ben Miller, the innovative founder of Kwik Drip. Ben has built one of the largest vintage clothing resale platforms in the country, offering a sustainable solution for pre-owned garments. His platform not only promotes eco-friendly fashion but also connects vintage enthusiasts, ensuring that timeless pieces find new homes instead of ending up in landfills.

You’ll also hear from Sarah Wahoske, a local personal stylist and fashion influencer with close ties to trendy boutiques in the area. Sarah, along with several boutique owners, share a preview of the exciting trends and must-have items for this fall season.

On a personal note, Alexis and I have been truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of enthusiasm and engagement from the community during the last few months. We’re committed to being here for the long haul and welcome your feedback. If you have any ideas or suggestions for future issues, don’t hesitate to contact me directly!

Thank you for coming along on this journey with us; we’ll see you in October.

September 2024

PUBLISHER

Cole Spitler | cole.spitler@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tori Lynn | tori.charnetzki@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Alexis Venter | alexis.venter@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Ashley Hicks

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

TQ Diamonds Celebrates 37th Anniversary

Timothy Quigley started TQ Diamonds when he was just 17 years old, and this month they are celebrating 37 years in business. This anniversary celebration will have the theme of lucky number “7”; and will include free gifts, discounts, food, drinks, lucky number “7” games and prizes. Be sure to stop by their Mineral Point Road location from September 20th-22nd to celebrate this accomplishment!

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Kayser Lincoln Offers Lincoln Mobile Service

Kayser Lincoln is very pleased to offer Lincoln owners in Middleton and throughout Dane County a new level of convenience with Lincoln Mobile Service. Let our Mobile Service Team keep your Lincoln performing its best with exceptional service, quality workmanship, and unbeatable value right at your home or work. Call 608-237-3145 to schedule our Mobile Service or inquire for more information on just how convenient Lincoln Mobile Service can be for you.

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Renewal by Kate Celebrates Certified Professional Organizer® Designation

Katie Wagner, owner of Renewal by Kate, achieved the Certified Professional Organizer® designation from the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers®. Fewer than 10% of professional organizers have earned this prestigious international credential. The CPO® designation is an acknowledgment of Katie’s dedication to professional organizing and continuous education. Renewal by Kate creates organized, functional and clutter-free living & storage spaces for families and busy professionals.

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SUSTAINABLE STYLE

WHAT IS KWIK DRIP?

Kwik Drip is a brand I created in 2018 in my dorm room at Lakeland University. We work with upcycled clothing and promote sustainability.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS BUSINESS?

I’ve always been into shoes and fashion. When I went to college, I didn’t have any money, so I started thrifting and bought clothes I loved for 10 times cheaper than If I were to buy new. I’d get too many clothes to wear and people in my dorm would buy things off me. I saw the business model and started running with it.

WHAT ARE YOU WEARING AND WHERE’D YOU FIND IT?

My shoes are New Balance, I found these at a garage sale.  My jeans are Levi’s custom painted by my buddy. And my shirt is a Keith Herring Memorial T-shirt with a dolphin on it. That’s from Goodwill.

ANY TREND PREDICTIONS FOR THE FALL?

People are going to be dressing super cozy this fall. Think the “Friends” Thanksgiving episode.

WHY THRIFT WHEN THERE’S CHEAP CLOTHING AVAILABLE NEW?

If people knew what was happening behind the scenes with those really cheap brands they’d rethink their purchases. Fast fashion companies are terrible to their workers and the environment.

An average piece of clothing from Shein has two wears before it rips or breaks, whereas vintage clothing was made with true craftsmanship and quality.  You get a shirt from the nineties or the eighties, you could wear it for 20 more years. If you get a shirt from 2024, you’re probably wearing it for a year max.

The clothing I sell ends up being used for another year and then maybe they sell it to another friend. That way people can dress well while keeping things out of the landfill.

HOW CAN PEOPLE CONNECT WITH YOU?

I’m on Depop and Instagram @kwikdrip. If anyone has old clothes lying around I can help them discover the value of them and buy them. And, I’m always open to collab with other thrifters or resellers.

WE ARE A Great Fit IF

You’re looking for a team of experienced professionals who stay up-to-date with the latest techniques, trends, and industry advancements, providing clients with exceptional and knowledgeable service. You value a warm and inviting atmosphere where smiling faces, delicious beverages, and friendly conversation await you.

You’re looking for a service provider that is dedicated to prioritizing the needs and preferences of each client, actively listening to their concerns, and customizing services accordingly.

You want to support a female owned business that values a team culture of collaboration, respect, and open communication among its employees.

From Fabric to Fit:

CRAFTING CONFIDENCE THROUGH CUSTOM ATTIRE

ARTICLE BY TORI LYNN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HICKS

“With us, you don’t have to worry about what to wear anymore.”

This is Mitch and Samantha’s promise at Fine Line Custom Attire. With over 30 years in the clothing business, they might be onto something.

While he didn’t grow up wearing fancy suits, Mitch got his first job in retail when he was 15. He went on to work for a who’s who of men’s retail in the area. It was at one of those jobs that he first experienced the power of a fully custom-made outfit.

“When I first put the outfit on - the confidence that I felt changed my entire outlook.”  From that first suit, Mitch knew the power of feeling great in your clothes. Then with over a decade of menswear experience under his belt, (Italian leather we assume) Mitch opened Fine Line Custom Attire in 2011. He wanted to work with his clients one-on-one, offer luxury trimmings, and of course get the perfect fit.

“I wanted to be able to offer all the accoutrements of luxury as a standard. We let people choose everything from unique buttons, colorful threads, whimsical linings, contrasting fabrics, and monograms too. Our lapels feature a handmade Milanese style buttonhole. They’re sort of rarity in the industry, and are typically found on fully handmade garments. It’s something that we do standard, even on our entry-level jackets”.

The attention to detail and personalized approach is what drew Samantha in when she came aboard in 2021 to create and lead their women’s line. While her background is more marketing than retail, she loves the creativity that goes into each piece and the results she’s able to attain for her clients.

“It’s refreshing to see someone who takes pride in their appearance and custom clothes are a great way to stand

out amongst the crowd.  You never know who you may strike up a conversation with at the coffee shop, over lunch, or at happy hour.  A well-tailored garment can make all the difference between success and stagnation.”

“We work with our clients at their home or office, taking the time to look through fabric swatches, buttons, and pick out all of the specifics.  We talk about design and style preferences, and take over 40 different measurements to ensure the perfect fit.  In a nutshell, we just try to make it as easy as possible for people to look and feel their best every day” says Mitch.

“It’s such a tactile experience. You build a different level of a relationship with somebody when fitting them for a custom garment and that’s what I really love about it” says Samantha.

If looking good and feeling good were not enough of a sell, Fine Line Custom Attire emphasizes their “white glove delivery.” It’s a details business, and the team makes sure nothing falls by the wayside.

“We bring the first outfit to you, professionally pressed by our dry cleaner, placed in a garment bag, on wooden hangers. Our goal is to fit you in your new outfit and you can wear it out the door the same day” says Samantha.

“Fine Line garments are built to last. We have clients that purchased clothes from us in 2015 that they still wear regularly, and are just now starting to show their age. In a world of fast fashion, that kind of quality is hard to come by nowadays” adds Mitch

Quality, service, and fulfilling your vision are always top of mind for the team at Fine Line. Mitch, Samantha, and the rest of their clothiers nationwide procure interesting fabrics to match whatever their clients are searching for.

“In a nutshell, we just try to make it as easy as possible for people to look and feel their best every day.”

“We have clients that purchased clothes from us in 2015 that they still wear regularly, and are just now starting to show their age.

In a world of fast fashion, that kind of quality is hard to come by.”

“I love it when people aren’t afraid to say “let’s have some fun with it.” If the jacket is a base color of blue and it’s got a pink windowpane, let’s do pink buttonholes and pick stitching with a smoked mother-of-pearl button. We can also add a bold jacket lining and a built-in pocket square. Something kind of sassy underneath the back collar for a monogram. I like doing the fun exciting stuff when it’s the right occasion” says Mitch.

“We really dork out on the details, and all the ways you can wear and pair outfits together. We love hearing our clients say WOW’ I really could wear this 8 or 10 different ways.” Whether it’s an exploded windowpane, a fancy stripe, or a classic banker gray suit, Fine Line Custom Attire is committed to helping their clients get the most out of their garments.

ARTICLE BY SARAH WAHOSKE

NotYourPlainSarahJane FALL STYLE WITH

FIND

YOUR FALL FASHION MUST-HAVES AT THESE LOCAL BOUTIQUES!

@notyourplainsarahjane is a personal stylist and fashion influencer who calls the Middleton area home. Her passion for fashion started while working in department stores over 20 years ago. She loves helping women find an outfit that truly empowers them. Here’s her selection of Middleton area businesses to help get your closet fall-ready.

“Fall fashion 2024 embraces a blend of cozy comfort and bold statements, featuring oversized knits, tailored coats, and rich autumnal hues.

Layering is key this season, with textured fabrics like wool, velvet, and leather adding depth to outfits.”

Cloth & Metal Boutique - 7531 Hubbard Ave, Middleton

A specialty women’s shop in the heart of Middleton featuring sustainable and women-owned clothing lines. Don’t miss the handmade jewelry that store owner Lisa designs herself. “Our tasteful prints are guaranteed to be the star of your outfits. They’ll be perfect worn on their own or layered under a jacket or sweater,” Lisa says about her fall inventory.

Tradition Market - 1823 Parmenter St, Middleton.

A thoughtful collection of women’s clothing with a classic style that will take you from your workday to weekends. Their handpicked offerings are perfect for busy women looking to create a stylish and effortless wardrobe.

Chauette - 1827 Parmenter St, Middleton

Fun and fabulous clothing are plentiful at Chauette! From athleisure to the perfect dress Chauette has options for everyone. Sue Bakke, Owner of Chauette believes, “Fall fashion 2024 embraces a blend of cozy comfort and bold statements, featuring oversized knits, tailored coats, and rich autumnal hues. Layering is key this season, with textured fabrics like wool, velvet, and leather adding depth to outfits.”

Evie and Co Boutique - 203 E Main St, Waunakee

A stylish boutique with an approachable price, Evie and Co. is always on top of the latest trends and is forever changing its offerings to keep you coming back. You don’t want to miss the next best style.

Cosa - 301 S Main St, Verona

“Look Good. Do Good.” is Cosa Boutique’s motto. A percentage of each sale is given back to a local non-profit. They feature a well-chosen selection of designer, luxury clothing, and shoe options. “The rediscovery of 90’s straight-leg denim and western-wear meets city chic are fall trends you’ll want to add to your closet this fall,” according to Amanda, an owner and buyer for Cosa Boutique.

DIY ART textured

ROPE TEXTURE ART

Supplies needed:

• Window insulation strips

• Canvas

• Kilz Interior primer

• Staple gun

• Spray paint, color of choice

• Super glue, optional

Instructions:

Create the desired design using insulation strips. Simply peel off the sticky backing and attach to the canvas. Be sure to wrap each strip around the back and press firmly. Use a staple gun to secure strips to the back of the canvas. Add a dap of super glue to any curved areas that appear to loosen. Once your desired design is created, apply a thin coat of Kilz interior primer. Spray paint the entire canvas the color of choice that you would like. Allow to dry for a minimum of 24 hours.

This trend-forward DIY art piece adds texture and dimension to your walls and is easy enough for anyone to do regardless of artistic ability.

YOUR DRINK DRESS UP

THESE BEAUTIFUL BEVERAGES ARE SURE TO TURN HEADS

BLUE MARTINI WITH FLORAL ICE CUBES

BOLD COLORS Fresh florals. An eye-catching shimmer. The perfect embellishment. We’re talking cocktails, not the catwalk. But like fashion, the art of mixology is full of ways to push the limits with creative twists on classic recipes, and unique adornments guaranteed to turn heads. There’s no reason your personal style can’t extend to the drink in your hand, and this botanical beverage is bound to taste as delicious as it looks.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 ounces Absolut Citron

• 1/2 ounce Blue Curaçao

• 1/2 ounce lemonade

• 1 ounce Sprite

• Edible flowers such as rose, lavender, hibiscus and nasturtiums

DIRECTIONS:

Pour Sprite into ice cube trays and add edible flower combinations. Let freeze overnight.

Combine Absolut Citron, Blue Curaçao, lemonade and ice cubes in martini shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.

Allow ice cubes to melt, gradually filling the glass with Sprite and garnishing the drink with beautiful botanicals.

ARTICLE BY CATE MARIAN

FIG + THYME

SPARKLING LEMONADE

INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:

• thyme simple syrup

+ 1/2 cup sugar

+ 1/2 cup water

+ 1 bunch thyme

• 2 fresh figs

• 3/4 ounce lemon juice

• 3/4 ounce thyme syrup

• 3/4 ounce Sprite

In a small saucepan, simmer sugar, water and thyme leaves over low heat for 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let the thyme infuse into the syrup for at least 10 minutes.

For the cocktail, muddle figs and lemon juice in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, 3/4 of the thyme syrup and Sprite. Stir and garnish with fig and a sprig of thyme.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 1/2 ounces premium vodka

• 1 ounce lemon juice

• 2 ounces purple shimmery liqueur

• Blackberry vodka

• Moscato wine

• Luster petal dust

• Sugar syrup (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Combine blackberry vodka, moscato wine and pinch of luster petal dust to make purple shimmery liqueur. Adjust proportions depending on flavor preferences. Add sugar syrup to make it sweeter if desired.

Pour vodka, shimmery liqueur and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker. Shake well and pour into glass over ice.

PURPLE KISS

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

STYLISH SOIREE

ELEGANT BUT CASUAL GATHERING

Autumn is a lovely season to have friends and family over for dinner. Why not host an elegant but casual gathering before the holiday craziness begins? A table setting of white dishes, woven placemats, copper utensils, and linen napkins decorated with succulent or herb clippings creates a stylish atmosphere conducive to conversation and enjoyment. This simple menu will allow you to host a stress-free evening.

CHEESE BOARD

While your guests enjoy a pre-dinner glass of wine or cocktail, set out a cheese board for them to nibble on. It is much simpler to assemble than a full-on charcuterie board. The basic rule is to offer three types of cheese—one blue (stilton, Roquefort, gorgonzola), one hard (cheddar, gruyere, manchego), and one soft (brie, camembert, Port Salut). Feel free to add olives, nuts, and grapes to the board, or just keep it simple like this one pictured with slices of artisan bread, crackers, and breadsticks.

Recipe by Linda Ditch

ROASTED

BEET SALAD

• 6 medium beets

• Olive oil, for drizzling

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 bag of salad greens

• 1/4 cup toasted pecans, coarsely chopped

• 2 ounces of goat or feta cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots

• Favorite vinaigrette dressing

Coat the beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place on a baking sheet. Roast in a 400-degree oven for 45 minutes until fork tender. Cool for 10 minutes, and then rub with paper towels to peel. (Beet juice stains, so be careful.) Cut the beets and toss with the remaining ingredients.

STEAK RUB

The dinner’s main event is a lovely piece of beef seasoned with a this spice rub. Use a steak of your choice grilled or seared in a cast iron skillet.

• 3 parts brown sugar

• 3 parts smoked sea salt

• 1 part smoked paprika

• ½ part coriander

• ½ part chili powder

• ¼ part cayenne pepper

• ¼ part dried thyme

• ¼ part cracked pepper

Mix all spices and apply liberally to the beef. Place the seasoned meat in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before grilling or searing.

SEPTEMBER 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 13TH – 21ST

Steel Magnolia presented by Middleton Players Theatre

2100 Bristol St | 4:00 PM

How a Dream became The Dream Team

ANEU came to life in the Spring of 2018, when Amie Neumaier decided to leave a different practice in the Madison Area, as the glass ceiling was becoming opaque. In the very beginning ANEU was just 2 suites, as the original clinic was still in its early building stages. Three months breeze by and the doors officially opened to the McFarland Location! There was just enough room for Amie, one Aesthetician, one Coordinator, and one big dream coming true.

As ANEU approaches its three year anniversary, Amie was ready to expand, again! The team begins the process to build into the space next door bringing ANEU to a total of 3,700 sq feet, but Amie wasn’t going to stop there.

This year, ANEU celebrates its six year anniversary with the help of her healthy and happy Dream Team of 20 and growing! Amie and the Clinic also made the big announcement of a 2nd location at 5231 University Ave. Boasting seven treatment rooms and a training center facility. Amie Neumaier has created a space for her employees to thrive and grow in education and safety.

There is no ceiling in sight for ANEU Med Spa!

Steel Magnolias is a heartfelt play set in a Louisiana beauty salon. Featuring a diverse and engaging group of women, it highlights their humor, strength, and resilience through life’s joys and trials. Blending witty dialogue with deep emotion, the play showcases how these ‘steel magnolias’ support each other through every challenge. Tickets are $30 for adults and $25 for seniors.

SEPTEMBER 25TH

Sportober Fest - Keva

8312 Forsythia St | 4:00 PM

Interested in a one-of-a-kind team-building activity? Check out Sportober Fest at Keva Sports Center. Enter a team and enjoy an evening of fun-filled games like the chicken toss and hungry hippo! The cost to enter for a team (up to 6 members) is $275, which includes food and drinks.

SEPTEMBER 26TH

Wine(d) Around the World

331 E Main St, Waunakee | 6:00 PM

Hosted by Red & White Winebar, Wine(d) Around The World is a Carpe Vinum Wine Club Event. Head over and taste 24 different wines from around the world and learn about their exclusive wine club, Carpe Vinum. Tickets are $20 for non-club members and $10 for members, available on their website or in person.

Want to be featured?

GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ MIDDLETON

Neutral is pioneering a new standard in sustainable living, seamlessly integrating innovation, sustainability, community, and design into every aspect of the resident experience.

At Neutral, we are redefining sustainable living through innovation. Visit us at Neutral.Us

hacks HAIR

Part the top half of the hair in two sections. Create fishtail braids (or braids of choice) and tie them together in the back of the hair. Add a fashion accessory around a ponytail for a little extra fun!

fishtail braids reverse

ARTICLE BY ABBI SULASKI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY KELSEY HUFFER

Part the hair down the center or side part, if preferred. Create braid(s) on the side of the head and secure with elastic. Twist the hair with braids into a simple bun, securing it with hair pins. Add an accessory for a classy touch.

simpleupdo

Braids to Keep You Chic All Year Long

Braids are a great way to add style and uniqueness to your hair style rotation and have been a staple in hair styles dating back to the 3500 B.C. This historical hairstyle is here to stay, so we wanted to share some go-to impressive looks.