On Saturday, May 31st, Why Not Petites, a Chicago-based modeling collective, hosted its third annual Stylist Expo fashion show. Held at The Box in downtown Milwaukee, the intimate event featured collections curated by six stylists local to the Milwaukee and Chicago areas. Each stylist showcased their unique points of view and used petite models to tell their stories.
In the modeling world, a petite model refers to someone of shorter stature. Founder Britney Wittes created Why Not Petites to help create more opportunities for this often overlooked demographic in the industry.
In addition to working to break barriers for petite models, this show also spotlighted the work of stylists rather than designers—another disruption of the traditional fashion industry that Wittes is eager to challenge. Stylists typically collaborate with designers and private clients to prepare looks for runway shows, photoshoots, and events. However, this expo allowed the selected stylists to create and express themselves without boundaries.
Wittes started Why Not Petites in response to her own experiences in the modeling industry. As a petite model herself, she found it discouraging that job opportunities were harder to come by, despite her experience and talent, compared to her taller peers.
“The idea of taller models really enforced the ‘ideal but unattainable’ woman — very thin, very tall and very beautiful,” Wittes said. “We are focusing on showing the whole untapped market that is petite models.”
Wittes sees no reason why petite models should continue to be overlooked. Instead, she believes they bring valuable diversity to an industry that has long been exclusive but is now gradually shifting toward broader representation.
“Representation is everything, especially for younger people. Being able to look up to someone who looks like you and say, ‘I want to be that,’ or, ‘I could do it too,’ truly means everything to someone young,” Wittes said.
Through shows, networking events, workshops, and more, Wittes hopes to dismantle the stigma around petite modeling and uplift those who aspire to enter the field but feel it is inaccessible to them.
This year, Why Not Petites featured 21 petite models who walked in six distinct stylist collection presentations.
About the shows
Lauren Diane, a Chicago-based wardrobe stylist, captivated the audience with an eclectic collection of streetwear-inspired looks that mixed bold patterns, urban edge, and contemporary flair.

Rahela Tanase presented a whimsical and magical collection, leaning into the world of fantasy. Her designs, inspired by childhood memories and playful imagination, brought an enchanting energy to the venue.

With over 30 years of experience in fashion retail, Karna Johnson has worked as a sales associate and retail shopper before stepping into personal styling with her own firm. Her collection was sophisticated and cohesive, drawing on summer aesthetics with elegant, wearable pieces.

Demetra Arvanitis, a Chicago-based personal stylist and entrepreneur, infused her collection with influences from global sartorial histories. Known for her fine tailoring, elegance, and luxury, Demetra’s pieces embodied timeless refinement.

Jennifer Kade, a personal stylist at Mayfair Milwaukee, presented a versatile collection that ranged from casual everyday wear to business casual and evening attire. Her styling showcased the variety and style potential of Macy’s pieces.

Mariela, owner of Ela Mari Boutique, showcased a bold, elevated collection for women. Her designs featured playful, feminine styles that effortlessly blended fashion-forward choices with an easygoing sensibility.

Together, Wittes, the stylists, and the petite models created a vibrant, inclusive event that brought together fashion lovers, creatives, and industry professionals alike.
Beyond the runway, Why Not Petites offers year-round programming including workshops, networking events, and mentorships aimed at breaking down industry barriers.
In the future, she hopes to continue fostering the Why Not Petites community. “We’ve mostly focused on fashion shows, so we’re excited to take the next step in our journey as a community and really bring that aspect to the forefront,” Wittes said.