Lexis Zenobia of Ladies of the Loon combines creativity with eco-consciousness, celebrating unique styles inspired by different cultures and eras.
Lexis Zenobia, a notable figure in Milwaukee’s vintage fashion scene, embodies a blend of creativity and sustainability through her business, Ladies of the Loon. Established nearly a decade ago, her brand pays homage to Wisconsin’s natural landscapes while championing comfortable and eco-friendly clothing from the 20th century. Zenobia’s motto, “anyone can wear anything as long as they have the confidence to pair it with,” encapsulates her approach to fashion.
Originating from Rome, Wisconsin, Zenobia was drawn to fashion early in her life, often opting for unique styles while her peers favored mainstream brands. “I didn’t wear thrifted outside because it was trendy or cool, but because it was fun and what I could afford at the time,” she explained. Her interest in fashion deepened during her teenage years as she frequented thrift stores, which ultimately inspired her to style looks for friends. By the age of 18, she ventured into fashion photography, accumulating a personal collection of vintage pieces for models to choose from.
When Zenobia relocated to Milwaukee at 20, her love for vintage clothing flourished. She decided to photograph and sell these unique pieces rather than dispose of them, which allowed others to enjoy her curated collection. In late 2016, she partnered with her friend Malia Sauceda, who brought expertise in marketing and graphic design to the venture, resulting in the birth of Ladies of the Loon. “We were both little fashionistas with some spare time and creative energy on our hands,” Zenobia remarked about the beginning of their collaboration. Although Sauceda moved away in 2019 to create her own upcycled vintage business, Loon Sauce, in Brooklyn, the two remain close friends.
Zenobia has gained recognition for her unique aesthetic, which features bold statement pieces. She draws inspiration from various decades, particularly enjoying the vibrant patterns of the ‘30s and ‘70s, as well as the “boss” energy of the ‘40s and ‘80s. Prioritizing comfort, her collection primarily includes silk, linen, and cotton garments, aimed at delivering both style and ease. “I tend to lean towards chic basics and a head turner always,” Zenobia added.
Her sourcing methods are extensive, ranging from thrift and antique shops to estate sales and private collections. Zenobia has traveled to Europe and parts of Central and South America, influencing her appreciation for culturally diverse clothing styles. She noted, “Clothes are art. I admire the couture and intricate knit work of southern Europe, places like Italy and France, the bold patterns from Africa, the intricate beadwork from Korea, the natural dyed fabrics from India, and the embroidery of Central and South America,” recognizing the historical significance each garment holds.
In addition to her emphasis on individual style, Zenobia also strives for size inclusivity in her offerings, highlighting that vintage pieces often represent different cultures and are made to accommodate various body types. “When I find a size-inclusive piece, a lot of times that piece represents a different culture, and it’s made to be a one-size-fits-all,” she expressed.
Amid growing awareness of climate issues and the environmental impacts of fast fashion, Zenobia champions the importance of secondhand shopping as a more sustainable alternative. “One of the main reasons I continue to do this is because of our planet’s dire need for sustainability,” she said. Her current collection includes vibrant spring apparel, such as a vintage floral vest and an abstract kimono, available for browsing on her Instagram page.
Ladies of the Loon operates out of a showroom at Hide House in Bay View, located at 2625 S Greeley St, accessible through private appointments. Zenobia is engaged in sourcing and styling vintage clothing throughout the week while frequently vending at pop-up markets across the Midwest, including One Trick Pony in Milwaukee.
In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Zenobia is also a published author and poet. Her book, “Many Moons & Motels,” released in 2022, captures her experiences through a collection of poems reflecting love, sorrow, and self-discovery. Illustrated with influences from beat poets, she describes the work as “raw, unfiltered and to the times.” Readers can purchase her poetry collection online or at locations like Woodland Pattern Book Center and Lion’s Tooth.
With an eye to the future, Zenobia hopes to expand her impact by focusing on educational aspects of vintage styling and curation while continuing her creative journey as a fashion blogger and mentor. Currently working on a second book, Zenobia’s multifaceted career showcases her passion for vintage fashion and literature, both of which narrate her personal stories and those woven into the fabric of the garments she curates.
Source: Noah Wire Services
