ENTERTAINMENT
FASHION
LIFESTYLE
2
3
The Musical Talent of Dallas 10
Resort Style Living For Everyone 12 Mr. LST: The Question & The Answer 16 DĂŠcor Tips to celebrate Your Personality 20
4
“So You Think You Can Dance” Dallas 24
Fashion Blog: Oh, I love Your Style 26 Best Resorts In Dallas—2012 30 Dallas IS Back! 34 Top 5 Dallas Fashion Designers 38
5
BEAUTIFUL. DALLAS.
6
JENNIFER HOBSON
7
8
9
By Lauren Foote
D
allas is home to culture in all its forms. It is filled with some of the best museums, clubs, restaurants and night life. Dallas is the heart of the lone star state, where culture and business rapidly grows with the times. Its most exciting manifestation of culture is its enriching musical scene. A lot of raw talent is found in the heart of Dallas. Some of the best voices of traditional country we find in International Country Music Star Jolie Holliday who was born in Dallas, Texas. She is a country singer with a magical voice. Her power to bring a crowd together with her country lyrics is thought to be nothing short of inspiring and appealing. She brings a whole new meaning to today’s country world. Her debut album was called A Real Good Day, which put her in the top of the American Charts as well as helping her international debut in Europe. She also received the Young Talent of the Year award at the German CMA Awards as well as Female Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year at the CMA Indie Awards. Her most famous single is considered to be No Thanks on the Indie World chart. Her new album is said to be released by mid2012. Besides her incredible voice, she also actively supports local charitable organizations such as Wednesday's Child, Rise and Shine and the Special Olympics. Jolie currently makes her home in Dallas, Texas. One of the greatest musical legacies of Dallas, Texas, could be considered Scott Copeland. He was born in August, 1970, around the sounds of the country we all know today as classic. However, to him it meant the future. He began his music career during his university days in Oklahoma University. Out of a hobby grew a future of satirical lyrics mixed with sadness that would later evolve into a voice. He went back to DFW in the 1999 where he decided to become a singer and performer and then he recorded his first song Nothing to Do. His songs touch the hearts of many Texans because of the words that resonate in those lyrics. Lyrics filled with heartbreak, fear and sadness, but also love and happiness. Although Dallas is also known for going away from the norm of classic country, one band fits this description, Fish Fry Bingo. They have a pure, raw hillbilly tour of American music, original and otherwise. Fish Fry Bingo is a raucous five piece hillbilly jug band from Texas. They utilize basic farm items and home utensils to harness their country sound. They use things like banjos, washboards, rattles, boots, pots & pans, kazoos, spoons, mandolins, jugs, train whistles, doghouse, guitars. They are popular along the Dallas area for their blue grass folk music. They have only become popular in the most recent years, so their popularity can only keep growing.
10
11
BY Allison Smith
D
riving up to the arched gates of the master-planned community of Savannah, Texas, located on U.S. 380, about five miles west of the Dallas North Tollway, I have a sudden urge to kick off my work shoes, don a pair of flip-flops, and throw on a swimsuit. It may be the enormous private water park, equipped with two giant tube slides, the cascading, fifteen foot, rock waterfall, or the massive clubhouse with its own private theater, greeting me as I arrive, that gives me this overwhelming feeling as if I have just arrived on vacation, however, glancing around at the unique homes which circle around this towering center, proves otherwise. Although Savannah may seem like a holi-
day retreat, make no mistake, while this may be premier, resort-style, living, it also stands as a deeply rooted community that boasts something for everyone. A Huffines Communities Development, built only eight years ago and carved out of open land in the 380 corridor, Savannah now has a population of over five thousand. Each house in this community, by builders such as Grand Homes, LionsGate Homes, Grand Homes, Nathan Carlisle Homes, and History Maker Homes, has a very distinctive style, elegant architectural details, and well laid out floor plans. The original concept of the community was fashioned after both Southern and Cape Cod styles, but newer construction also incorporates an Austin, Texas look, with brick, natural wood, and stone work. Just recently, Nathan Carlisle Homes began construction on Savannah’s active adult community for the fifty-five plus set, Isabella Village. This area of the community offers single story homes and 2 models with optional 2nd floor game rooms, plus a separate Amenity Center, specifically for these residents. When people hear the words “complete community� they may 12
think of cookie cutter homes, where it becomes impossible to distinguish one house from another, but this is definitely not the case in Savannah. The variety of designs available offer a multitude of houses available for any taste, and owner’s needs, and the prices ranging from the $140's to the $300's, make it accessible to a wide scope of budgets. Despite the variety of elegant and charming homes available, the real draw to Savannah is the amenities and the community spirit. Aside from the private water park, the Junior Olympic swimming pool, separate adult pool, and the over eighteen parks scattered about the neighborhood that include fishable ponds, the community also features tennis courts, a regulation baseball field, basketball court, and a soccer field. The clubhouse itself offers a three story workout facility, conference rooms, a spectacular cathedral ceiling sitting area, a breathtakAccording to Chellie Feathers, one of the onsite Huffines team members, residents are all very active in the community, and it is the kind of place where everyone knows their neighbors. Families with young children make up a large part of this community, but there are also many empty-nesters, singles, and working couples, creating a very dynamic make-up of residents. The attraction for prospective Savannah residents may be the resort-style living, a place where you can live and play in top notch, well maintained facilities, but the community feel, that is so very evident when walking around the neighborhoods, where families watching their children on the playgrounds, or single people jogging to the gym to workout, wave welcomingly, is what will have buyers calling this their home. ing library with fireplace, a private theater which can accommodate up to seventy people, a cafÊ area, and a commercial kitchen for both catering and community events. The community also features and exemplary Denton ISD neighborhood school, Savannah Elementary for kindergarten through to grade five, and while kids may be sold on the waterpark, parents will definitely be sold on the fact their children can bike or walk to school located right in the community. The jewel in the crown of Savannah, however, is the energetic role the residents and Homeowners Association play to create a one of a kind community. A full-time activities director helps organize the many neighborhood activities and events that take place, such as pancake breakfasts, baseball games, and pool parties. The events staff always tries to host one event a month, and ensures there is always something for everyone.
Allison Smith is a freelance writer and educator living in the DFW area.
13
14
CUSTOM HOMES WWW.LIVINGBELLAVITA.COM 15
By Marco “Mr. LST” Walder
H
ave you ever asked a person a question and you give them the answer choices that they are to use, yet they still chose to give their own personal answer? This style of communication will never allow 2 people to “get on the same page”. During a conversation try only to give an individual what they ask for and nothing more or less, because sometimes more is NOT better. Adding more water to a cup that is already full will only make the cup overflow and then someone is left to clean up the mess. Remember, dating and getting to know a person should be simple NOT complicated. Yet many unnoticeably turn checkers into chess by how they answer questions and wonder why they struggle when it comes to making a connection.
16
For example, if you are taking a test and the test question only gives you answer choices A, B, and C. You can’t disregard those answer choices and try to add the answer choice D. If the person who asked the question wanted the answer choice D as an option, they would have made that answer choice available. Now if you feel that answer choices A, B, and C do not completely represent you, STILL STICK TO THOSE CHOICES and choose the best one because the question was not formulated by you. Remember, the person who asked the question may have a deeper insight into why those choices were given, AFTER you provide them with an answer from the choices they chose. The object is to play checkers not chess so stick to the script and AFTER the script has been laid out or explained completely, if you still would like to clarify or add to your answer then do so. Coincidentally, once that person has provided the reasoning behind the question you probably will feel satisfied with the simple answer that you gave because it will give you more understanding to why the question was asked and to why those specific answer choices were given. Many times individuals allow their opinions and personal feelings to dominate another person’s question when that wasn’t the purpose of the question. One who is able to answer questions the way they were asked without adding their own personal opinions and beliefs, or in other words your own “2 cents”, will be asked MORE questions. Care to know why? Because they give SIMPLE answers and they stick to the script, that’s what people seek SIMPLE answers to questions. Have you often heard people say that while out on a date they don’t want it to feel like a “test” or an “interview”. I totally agree because those words do nothing, except make people become nervous, anxious, and stressed. No one in school looks forward to test day, UNLESS you were truly prepared to make an “A” because you devoted hours to studying and you KNEW the material. Sad, yet true each date is a learning experience and the object is to learn as much as you can about the other person as possible so that you are able to make a sound decision to whether they are right for you. The only way to learn about something is to ask questions so in other words be prepared and KNOW YOURSELF because you are being tested and interviewed. ♥ THE MARCOISM – Less is more ~ Mr. LST
17
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT www.hobson-training.com 18
Unique cutz 1700 N. Beltline Road Irving, Texas 75061
972.951.7278 Walk-Ins Welcome
19
Décor Tips to Celebrate Your Personality By Jasmine McGee
C
an’t getaway for the weekend? Then why not reeve up your décor, and turn your home into a humble abode that expresses your individual personality.
There are many décor trends to choose from, and in Dallas, there isn’t one “correct” way to decorate. From lavish fabrics, exquisite finishes, and exotically chic, there are many ways to celebrate your personality and turn your humble Dallas abode into a magnificent work of art. So where do you start? Find out your unique décor personality.
Your unique personali-
ty can say a lot about 20
Your unique personality can say a lot about your design choices. There are many ways to relax in the comfort of your own home, but your individual style and preferences will dictate what is relaxing. While one person may find the exotic colors of Moroccan décor infused with rustic oranges, purples, reds, and yellow, another may opt for the sleek lines of a black & white minimalistic palette.
Many interior designers work based off their clients personality, so it’s a principle that should be applied to your own design efforts. When designing for a couple or a family, it’s a good idea to learn how to properly mix & match personalities. One person may have a preference for a sleek modern design, while someone else may want the house to incorporate an eclectic art deco scheme. Instead of spending hours fusing, it’s a good idea to come up with ways to incorporate an equal amount of both design personalities. Opt for bright art deco inspired accessories, while keeping the furniture in a sleek modern palette. If you have a personality that is outgoing, then you’ll want to stay away from monotone colors and indulge in vibrant colors. Of course you want to avoid a visual color splatter, but you should express your inner freedom with bright hues and unique accessories that are daring. Outgoing personalities require a décor that says, “Dare to be different.” For those with a sophisticated personality driven by timeless chic, then you’ll want a décor that is similar to your personality. Pops of bright colors are decent, but you may want to try cool colors that are timeless, yet exude an air of luxury. Instead of bright colors, try blue/pink combination that comes in the right shade of a soft pink that will give the room an innocently classy vibe. If you really want to express luxury, then you can always go for regal shades of gold, gray, ivory, silver, and soft tones of blue. But you’ll also want to pay attention to the fabric choices and the furniture you pick, it should be effortlessly timeless. If you have a personality that is often sophisticated, occasionally conservative, and sometimes extremely outgoing, then you can combine all of these together in small doses. Just make sure that whatever you do décor wise expresses your personality. If you’re home is going to be a showcase, then go ahead and let everyone see your personality reflected in the design. One exotic accessory or brightly colored couch can turn dull drinks with friends into a great conversation of décor tips, relaxation, and exotic weekend getaways. Just remember, celebrate your décor personality.
21
CRUISE IN LUXURY AAIC TRAVEL www.aaicluxurytravel.com
22
23
‘So You Think You Can Dance’
Dallas By Kelly Craig
B
ig changes call for some big cities. “So You Think You Can Dance” returned just before Memorial Day Weekend to shock its viewers with drastic changes as auditions started off in cities known to do things BIG: New York City and Dallas. The man behind it all Nigel Lythgoe (Co-Creator, Head Judge, Executive Director and Executive Producer) tweeted back in January: #FOX have cancelled the results show so I will have to change the format of #SYTYCD. At least we have another season at the end of MAY. Lythgoe’s hands were tied after Fox cut from two shows per week to just one, and it all comes down to the money. Results shows are very expensive as they have lower ratings and viewership than performance shows. Scaling back SYTYCD to only one show a week forces Lythgoe to pack in results and performances into one two-show per week. Judges will give dancers a recap of the previous week’s performance, critic how they danced that night, reveal how the viewers voted, and then eliminate contestants. This whirlwind may leave viewers’ heads spinning, even before the twirling and cross-body leads begin. After SYTYCD kicked off auditions with judges Nigel Lithgoe, Mary Murphy, and special guest Tyce Diorio who sent contestants straight to Vegas, straight home, or off to participate in a choreography round. Christopher “Lil’C” Toler joined Lithgoe and Murphy in day three’s auditions held here in Dallas. After a day chock full of meeting various personalities from mothers to monsters, five dancers wowed the judges enough on day one to earn a ticket to Vegas. An additional five more joined from the choreography round. On the second day here in Dallas, three dancers make it to Vegas joined by seven from the choreography round. These twenty handpicked contestants will have to wait until judges Lithgoe, Murphy, and special guest Jesse Tyler Ferguson to jet set to size up Los Angeles before the competition heats up in Vegas. “So You Think You Can Dance” is back on its regular night Wednesdays at 8/7c on Fox. 24
Lily vasaelini
25
Oh, I love your style! By Xhevrije West While summer in Dallas, TX may be a season of excruciating heat, the styles and trends are much hotter! I have seen a lot of exotic prints on the runway, magazines and in and around our city. The paisley print has made its way back into the realm of fashion. Now, the paisley is an old print from the beginning of time. An evolved version of this print can be found on dresses, shirts, shorts and even pants. This print can be paired with your favorite platforms and is workable with nearly anything, including other prints. Another print that is migrating its way to the forefront of the industry is aquatic/safari prints. This is a bit of a bold 26
look, therefore, beware of the statement you will make in these threads. It definitely has a fun, beach theme complete with bold, bright colors of leaves, beach water and flowers. Keep the look minimal and allow this vibrant print to shine on its own with no severe accessories. Animal prints are definitely a must for your wardrobe this summer and I’m not talking zebra or cheetah prints. Actual prints of animals such as elephants or tigers are being seen all over the fashion world, especially on dresses. These animals can also be spotted grazing across shirts as well and if you’re lucky and a little more daring you’ll pick up some pants with animal prints on them. Let’s not forget about our other prints that have been in circuit for awhile, like the geometric and abstract prints. These are virtually timeless because of their uniqueness. How could anyone resist the power of a geometric or abstract print? Well, the answer is, you just flat out cannot! You can definitely get away with pairing these prints with other prints along with some funky shoes. You can accessorize, but I wouldn’t do too much. Well, that does it for prints! Great places to shop these prints are in consignment shops or thrift stores. Remember that these prints are interchangeable and men (those who aren’t afraid) can rock these styles too!
27
28
29
The big D is by far the number 1 visitor and leisure destination in Texas. No matter what brings you to this ultra modern, sophisticated and vibrant city, its combination of southern hospitality and diversity will cater to your expectations accordingly. By Cheran Ratnam
Number 1
Number 2
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
Rosewood Crescent Hotel
Complete with hand- carved fireplaces, marble floors and stained glass windows, the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek will seduce you instantly and invite you to its intimate ambience.
Everything’s big in Texas right? Well, everything from paintings to guestrooms in this opulent hotel is BIG! The large and spacious rooms and the attentive staff will put you and your whole family at ease, while you unwind at the spa or with a cup of fine tea.
Founded in 1980, the original Italian decorative scheme runs through the 143 rooms in calm colors and palatial fabrics. The Mansion Restaurant is headed by the acclaimed Chef Bruno Davaillon, featuring signature dishes that include King Crab butternut squash soup and bison tenderloin au poivre.
Its ideal location to the heart of Uptown Dallas, with walking distance to the Worlds largest urban Arts District including the Winspear Opera House and Wyly Theatre, adds elegance and sophistication to its splendor.
The surroundings for this stately mansion could not get better with the downtown Central Business District being five minutes away, the international airport less than 30 minutes away and being adjacent to Dallas’ prestigious residential area, the Park Cities.
With a range of dining options from Nobu to Starbucks available, the discreet, professional hospitality with a hint of Texas Charm helped place this opulent Hotel in the world’s top 100 in 2011
30
Number 3
Four Seasons Resort and Club If you are looking for a balance between laid back and play, then the Four Seasons Resort Club is the place for you. This spectacular getaway offers you one of the nations top golf courses along with tennis courts, pools, tracks and a full service European spa. With spacey-elegant rooms and golf villa rooms with sensual views of the golf course and the pool, this resort is a golfers ultimate paradise. The sensual surroundings of the resort come with the added convenience of being only 15 minutes from the DFW international airport. Number 4
Great Wolf Lodge Great Wolf Lodge offers 80,000 square feet of water-packed- jaw dropping slides in its 84-degree indoor water park. Outside this massive arena, other exciting activities for kids such as MagiQuest, Scooops Kid Spa and fireside Story Time awaits to give an exciting finish to a fun packed day. With over 10 different suites ranging from kid cabins to luxury king suites available, Great Wolf Lodge offers unparallel family entertainment in the Dallas metropolis. The American Airline Center, Arlington Ballpark and the Cowboys Stadium are just a few surrounding attractions that make Great Wolf Lodge one of the best in Dallas. Number 5 The Westin Stonebriar Resort Native Texas design elements such as walnut, pecan and stone highlights this multiple AAA “Four Diamond� award-winning resort located in the North Dallas suburb of Frisco. The 18-hole championship golf course nearby is visible from the guest rooms and the several distinct culinary venues, the lagoon-style outdoor pool, fitness facility and adjacent spa and tennis courts will keep you entertained and pampered during your stay. Only 18 miles from the DFW airport, the resort is a great hideaway without having to loose anything that Dallas has to offer. The luxurious and spacious rooms with modern amenities and backyard shopping at the Stonebriar Center and Willowbend will undoubtedly provide you a balance between rested and engaged.
31
32
33
By Kelly Craig All of the wealth, power, and seduction are back in TNT’s all-new series Dallas. “This show set a standard that was different than anything that has been done before,” Linda Gray says in the extended sneak peak. From Warner Horizon Television, this show set at Southfork Ranch in Texas centers around the iconic Ewing family famously known for their oil and cattle dynasty. The original Dallas aired from 1978 to 1991 and gave viewers a glimpse into the Ewing ranch: the power; the pride; the love, sex, and divorce; the oil, cattle, and fortune; the family dynamics; and so much more. “The audience is going to have the comfort of the familiar and really special chemistry of the new,” Gray says. 34
New stars Josh Henderson (90210), Jesse Metcalfe (John Tucker Must Die), Jordana Brewster (Fast & Furious), Julie Gonzalo (Veronica Mars) and Brenda Strong (Desperate Housewives) tell the story of the next generation of the famous Ewing family along with idolizing Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray; Larry Hagman is to play J.R. Ewing. As the oil comes out of the ground, so do the secrets and arguments. Brothers John Ross Ewing (Hagman) and Bobby Ewing (Duffy) fight to control Ewing industries. The next generation of Ewings are not only taking over the empire but also living out the rivalry as well in this summer’s 10-episode season. Duffy as Bobby Ewing explains, “He looks at the two offspring and he thinks is there any way to avoid what he failed at.” The star-packed family web is sure to deliver: there is son John Ross Ewing (Henderson) of J.R. (Hagman) and ex-wife Sue Ellen (Gray) feuding with cousin Christopher Ewing (Metcalfe), the adopted son of Bobby Ewing (Duffy) and wife Ann played by Strong. Christopher Ewing is engaged to Rebecca, played by Gonzalo, but is involved in a love triangle with Elena (Brewster) and J.R. “It was the first time people saw a functioning dysfunctional family,” Gray says about the original Dallas. The story continues on TNT’s new series Dallas set to premiere June 13.
35
36
37
38
In Dallas fashion things are always new and exciting. These top 5 movers and shakers are some of best Fashion designers Dallas has to offer
After launching her own line in 2010, Nha Kahnh has become a top designer in the Dallas fashion scene. Raised in Dallas and a North Texas graduate, Nha knows what it takes to dress the women of Dallas. Her Fall 2012 collection, recently shown as Fresh Faces of Fashion, does not disappoint. Edgy yet glamorous, her collections have something for everyone but it is not something everyone else has in their closet. The base of the mission of Nha Kahn is “empower a woman with inner-strength through her clothing.” With her modern appeal, Nha Khan designs embody everything the always-changing Dallas fashion girl needs.
Abi Ferrin’s life completely changed after being named Texas’ Next Top Designer in 2007. She successfully launched a company that is known throughout Dallas and the U.S. However, it is the philanthropic part of her company that is most successful. The Freedom Project is part of Abi Ferrin solely designed to empower women. A personal victim of abuse, Abi uses her personal experiences to empower women through her clothes. Her fresh perspective is matchless to so many other designers in Dallas fashion. Always looking to expand, one of Abi’s newer fashion ventures is a basic dress and tank line with John Piermarini, Abi & John. This line is sold exclusively in John’s upscale boutique Piermarnini’s in Uptown Dallas.
Owner and Designer of IZAVEL, Isabel Varela, is taking Dallas by storm. After leaving her previous label Varela + Brooks to start IZAVEL earlier this year, Isabel has become the talk of Dallas. This year she was the inaugural designer at The Fairmont at Dallas Designer-at-Residence. It was during the time she debuted a Fall/Winter collection that has already been scene on several Dallas socialites. Her edgy and fresh take are what make her collection one worth having. Its seems Dallas cant get enough of Isabel Varela. By Kati Ruthart 39
Innovative, fresh, and, detailed are all things that can be said of the work of Nicolas Villalba. After starting his company in 2002 and adding a men’s line in 2010, Nicolas has created his own unique place in fashion. His bold and colorful creations are truly one of a kind. Nicolas sets him self apart from many other studios in Dallas by not only designing beautiful clothing, but also things for the home. Having won countless awards and being featured in dozens of publications, it is no surprise Nicolas’s collections can be found throughout the Dallas area. His luxurious taste shown in his designs make his collection catch the eye of some of the best Fashionistas in Dallas.
After taking a break to recover from a tragic accident, Lindsay Weatherred is poised to take back top status in Dallas fashion. Showing her commitment to the environment, Lindsay’s 2012 collection is made with recycled leather. With a relaxed feel to it, Lindsay’s collection is perfect for the confident Dallas woman. Her collection is available throughout the metroplex
40
41
42
Karson's Clothier 818 N. Hwy 67 Suite #102-A Cedar Hill, Texas 75104
43
44