After years of working for other people, Sarah Skinner and Lisa Trautner decided it was time to venture out on their own. On Friday, December 15, 2006, they opened Ess Elle Style Studio in the newly remodeled UWM Kenilworth Building at 1919 E. Kenilworth Place on Milwaukees East Side.
Their vision is to provide affordable, quality fashions for young professional women. Whether they are graduate students, starting careers, or need a wardrobe overhaul, Skinner and Trautner are there to help.
Lisa has had a long, successful career as a manager, wholesaler, visual merchandiser and buyer. My experience included marketing, sales, buying and wholesaling, explained co-owner Skinner. Lisa and I are a great balance for each other. She has a bachelor of fine arts degree and a keen eye for style and changing trends. I, on the other hand, am the numbers girl with a business degree. Really, we are just two laid back girls that want to help people look their best without sacrificing their monthly rent.
Both women live on the East Side, so when deciding on a location, there was no contest. They both agree that they love the energy and vitality of the people and other businesses on the East Side.
Ess Elle Style Studio will carry a wide variety of brands ranging from Laundry by Shelli Segal, to Covet, to Genetic Denim. They made a conscious decision not to carry brands sold at nearby stores, so all the stores could complement one another.
The owners support local artists in the area with some of their jewelry selections. They are currently showing some by Riverwester Julie Caan of Beads Rule.
Skinner and Trautner look forward to offering the best possible customer service possible. They are excited to be joining the East Side business community.
Riverwest Currents online edition – January, 2007