Custom car culture

I don't know jack about cars. Cars are purely functional modes of transportation for me.

I can identify certain makes and models by their easily brandable features, such as the space-age shape of a Prius or the shear voluptuousness of an Expedition. I admire a lovely feat of aerodynamics like anyone else; like the elegance of each and every Mercedes Benz. I recognize that I am drawn to crossover vehicles lately, especially the Infiniti FX35 in gunmetal silver.

But, I am beyond practical when it comes to automobiles. I drive an American made, 2001 compact SUV with two self-inflicted dents that I refuse to repair due to the fact that I am certain once I do, my car karma will reset, putting me at risk for more bumps, dents and scratches.

I admire fancier rides and understand the prestige attached to specific brands, but a truck that drives reliably in the snow and gets decent gas mileage is all I need.

Cars do have their way of making their impression on me, though. I remember when I met my man wayyyy back in the day and he rolled up in a '64 cream colored Cadillac Coupe de Ville. That ride whispered to my subconscious, "The guy that drives me is a class act." He was and he still is – that car was right.

The Caddy was in almost mint condition, but I fantasized about adding a leopard pinstripe along the sides and replacing the well-worn interior with leopard-trimmed crushed red velvet.

That never happened. But, it might have had I known Gino Lopez and his family back then, who own and operate Team Gileto, one of Milwaukee's only sources for quality performance parts, suspension parts and decals. Team Gileto also specializes in adjustable suspension, including coilovers, airrides and hydraulics.

In other words, it can pimp your ride.

Team Gileto's custom car work covers a range of tastes, needs and complexity.It  can actualize whatever vision you have for your ultimate, customized whip. From conservative car magnet advertising to flashy and fun vinyl decals, Team Gileto makes reality of a one of a kind expression of your vehicular visions.

Team Gileto also participates in Milwaukee and the surrounding area's countless car shows, which are a great place to check out the creativity and crazy coolness of custom car culture.

Today, when I think of custom car culture and what Team Gileto does, the following scenario pops into my all too vivid imagination: (Complete with soundtrack.)

An engine roars as bass pumps so loud it vibrates not only the bouncing vehicle it is emerging from, but the surrounding traffic as well.
"Crusin' down the street in my six-fo'..." Eazy-E raps from the speakers while the hydraulics bump the supped up metallic royal purple Sedan de Ville in rhythm to the beat of the blaring music...

Perhaps a familiar scene in this counter culture, often dismissed as loud noise coming from loud cars, there is a passion and art that goes into these well cared for, modified vehicles that is often overlooked.

I completely have a thing for lowrider/modified car culture. From the music to the clothes, a lifestyle has emerged that's become worthy of a Hollywood movie franchise, countless magazines and a huge Web presence.

Bright metallic colors, airbrushed artwork, custom decals, detailed hubcaps, beyond professional sound systems, artfully molded metal, tricked out cars are cool as all get out.

There is no denying your car does communicate something about you. Maybe it just needs to say more!

I'm thinking pearlized hot pink with animal print accents and my business name emblazoned on every panel for my sweet baby ...

What?

A girl can dream!