Fashion GETS CREATIVE
The Style Issue
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Ahwatukee’s #1 Team For Over 40 Years
Mike Mendoza | Josh Mendoza | Rob Castellini
September's Style Playbook
Welcome to our September issue, a celebration of style in all its beautiful forms. As September arrives, there's an undeniable energy that prompts us to refresh, rethink and rediscover the joy of personal expression. This month, we've curated stories designed to inspire you, from the moments you gather to the clothes you choose, providing fresh ways to express your unique aesthetic.
Style, we believe, extends far beyond the closet. It's about the artistry of living, and nowhere is this more evident than in the thoughtful creation of a tablescape. Inside, you’ll find exquisite ideas for transforming your dining space into a visual feast, layering textures, colors and cherished pieces to craft an ambiance that tells a story and makes every meal memorable. Even though we may be wishing for cooler temperatures and patio weather, creating an inviting indoor sanctuary is always in style.
But of course, what's a style issue without embracing the very essence of fashion? We’re thrilled to bring you a captivating feature on how to expertly weave vintage finds with contemporary pieces to create a wardrobe that is distinctly yours. It’s a sustainable, soulful approach to dressing that celebrates individuality and gives new life to timeless treasures.
And speaking of distinct, you simply must take another look at our cover! For the first time, we’ve commissioned a remarkably special piece of art: a stunning, hand-drawn professional sketch of our fashion spread's subject, Lisa Ryan Whyte. It’s a beautiful testament to the artistry that underpins fashion, brought to life by an incredibly talented illustrator, Chloe Ball. This cover is a work of art in itself, and we believe it perfectly encapsulates the vibrant spirit of this issue.
As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you find the beauty in each story. May these images and words inspire you to infuse every aspect of your life with intention, beauty and your own undeniable style.
BETH DEL VILLE, EDITOR
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Sherry York | sherry.york@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Beth Del Ville | beth.delville@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kris Ann Valdez, Angela Broockerd, Beth Del Ville
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Stephanie Slezak
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
inside the issue
ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Glamorous Dining at Warren’s Supper Club
Fine dining and fashion converge at the new Warren’s Supper Club located at 1040 N 54th St. in Chandler. From the family behind Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles, this old-school jazz club features live music nightly, and the menu boasts elevated Cajun flavors and creative cocktails. Cocktail hour begins at 4 p.m. ahead of the 5 p.m. dinner service, and the restaurant is open until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; midnight on Friday and Saturday. WarrensSupperClub.com
Cordially Opened New Location, Men's Boutique in Central Phoenix
Boasting a larger retail space, Cordially, the premier local gifting boutique owned and operated by Jennifer Lum Lung, recently relocated to 5121 N. Central Ave. The new location features a men’s boutique called 12 Volt, co-owned with Lum Lung’s sister-in-law, Raegen Johnson, along with a dedicated private event area, where events and workshops, such as hand lettering, floral design and more, are held throughout the year. Visit CordiallyPhoenix.com for details and follow along on Instagram @CordiallyPhoenix
Photography Courtesy of Cordially
Scan to read more
Want to be featured?
Boutique & Gifts
We’re thrilled to welcome you to our new space- right across from Paris Baguette!
Enjoy everything you already adore about Cordially, now elevated with more space and exciting additions.
Explore our new Men’s shop, Twelve Volt Supply, private workshop area, and even more gifts, décor, & home boutique finds.
Christy Alvarado Designs
Inspired Bracelets
Cactus Candles AZ
Saint Candles
Three Mac Studio
Marv Wise Wren
Kokos Candles
Kamps Woods ...and so much more!
VI N T AGE VIBES
INCORPORATING VINTAGE PIECES INTO YOUR WARDROBE BRINGS YOUR STYLE GAME TO THE NEXT LEVEL
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK
A timeless floral blouse is a classic go-to for an effortless outfit. CONTINUED >
Gone Country
Stylish no matter how you slice it, interior designer Lisa Ryan Whyte loves vintage and incorporates heritage pieces into her everyday style. Whyte ups the ante in her denim-on-denim ensemble by pairing these classic-with-a-twist cowboy boots. The teal-tipped vintage footwear nods to the spirit of the Southwest and speaks to the enduring appeal of well-loved pieces.
Giddy Up, Buttercup! Treasured boots let you put your best foot forward.
Retro Chic Classics never go out of style. This look masterfully blends vintage inspiration with modern flair. Whyte’s patterned blouse, with its abstract motifs and distinctive necktie, echoes classic designs while feeling utterly contemporary. Anchored by the vintage top, the ensemble has character and depth, proving that timeless elements can create a fresh, sophisticated style that stands out.
Pearls and Pins Vintage classics like broaches and pearls are always a good idea.
CHLOE BALL, FASHIONISTA & Artist Extraordinaire
Artist Chloe Ball turns her love of fashion into live portraits and illustrations
ARTICLE BY KRIS ANN VALDEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK
Chloe Ball often paints in comfortable, but elaborate, pink dresses and outfits—the mainstay of her wardrobe.
“I have always had a love for fashion, especially vintage fashion, primarily from the 50s and 60s,” Ball says. “There is so much charm and character to the styles that were most popular during those decades that I love to incorporate not only into my art but also into my own wardrobe.”
It was her wardrobe that first inspired Ball to sketch fashion portraits. After college, she pursued freelance work, which left her little time for ambitious personal projects. To stay connected to her inner artist, she began drawing the outfits she wore.
Over time, Ball says, those sketches evolved into painted tributes to vintage Dior and Chanel, and eventually into special occasion portraits for friends and family.
Today, Ball blends her interest in fashion with live portraiture by capturing people or pets—their sense of style and likenesses—at booths and markets around Phoenix, and through Etsy commissions. She calls her style “loose, imperfect and quirky.”
“Strangely enough,” she admits, “I can remember every painting I’ve ever done of someone or their pet.” One of her favorites, she says, was of two rescue beagles named Dixie and Emmy Lou, who still visit her booth at markets to say hello.
Recently, Ball traveled to Paris, drawing inspiration from the Louvre’s special fashion exhibit featuring archival pieces from legendary fashion houses like Thom Browne, Dior and Chanel. She also turns to Pinterest, old runway looks, mid-century films (particularly those with costumes by Edith Head) and the fashion illustrations of Robert Best.
To Ball, her work is a “living, breathing” thing. “I’m constantly getting ideas for new paintings…I haven’t felt this sort of creative hunger in quite some time.”
In addition to her portraits, Ball creates artwork for many New York Times bestselling authors and is currently collaborating with a jewelry brand to create hand-painted bracelets and pendants.
Follow her on Instagram @ChloeScribbles to see where she’ll be painting next, or visit her website at ChloeBall.art.
ELEVATED ENTERTAINING
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK
Transforming a simple meal into a memorable occasion begins with the art of the tablescape. This season, embrace the captivating allure of feminine heirloom style, curating a table that tells a story and exudes heartfelt intention. Setting the stage for the dishes served, a thoughtfully adorned table acts as a beautiful start to your meal, creating an elevated and welcoming experience for guests, whether it's an intimate weeknight dinner or a special and cherished gathering.
Start by laying a rich foundation with a textured base of round raffia chargers. Their intricate woven
design doesn't just protect surfaces; it introduces a soft, organic warmth that immediately sets a refined yet relaxed tone. Atop this textural foundation, ground each place setting with the timeless simplicity of crisp white dishes—a pristine canvas allowing subsequent layers of color and character to truly shine.
Next, infuse your table with a delicate colorful contrast and a whisper of history by incorporating antique plates and glassware. Each unique piece, perhaps passed down through generations or even discovered in an antique shop, adds not only a subtle pop
Explore how refined touches and treasured family pieces can transform your table into an impeccable dining experience
of color but also an unparalleled sense of charm and narrative. Depending upon the dishes served, arrange the flatware with a precision that hints at formality yet remains approachable.
For finishing elements, embrace charming pattern play. Introduce patterned fabric napkins, perhaps with delicate florals or subtle stripes, adding visual dimension and interest to each setting. Create a pretty bow by using an antique pewter napkin ring, or even knot them for a touch of playful whimsy that beautifully balances the elegance. Finally, let a lush centerpiece of fresh florals and greenery enhance and entrance. Consider creating a living runner that meanders down the table's length, bringing the beauty of nature indoors and serving as a unique, vibrant focal point that ties the entire design together.
FAVORITE FINDS FROM THE SHOOT
We ordered the woven chargers from Amazon.com, but you can find them at any price point from World Market to Serena & Lily.
We found the floral napkins at Pottery Barn and they’re the perfect mix of classic and modern.
We popped over to Trader Joe’s to create these beautiful arrangements and greenery runner. Marry the eucalyptus and baby’s breath for dimension and weave it down the table. Choose jewel-toned blooms, like these Cala Lillies, to incorporate a rich fall hue. Add height with stems of white Veronica and bold blossoms like white mums for a full-bodied arrangement.
The vintage Depression-era glass was collected over the years by our host, Jude Mendoza. Search vintage stores or eBay to begin building your collection.
WHERE THE BAY meets bliss
DISCOVER LUXURY AND FAMILY-FOCUSED RELAXATION AT LOEWS CORONADO BAY RESORT
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Perched gracefully on a private peninsula, surrounded by the waters of the San Diego Bay, Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers more than a vacation — it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a world where coastal serenity meets refined comfort. Just minutes from the heart of downtown San Diego and the charming village of Coronado, the resort strikes a harmonious balance between easy elegance and meaningful connection.
From the moment you step into one of the resort’s 440 thoughtfully appointed guest rooms and suites, you’re welcomed by the coastal charm of soft textures, ocean-inspired palettes, and modern amenities. Spacious bathrooms—some with deep soaking bathtubs—invite you to unwind, while private balconies offer panoramic views that evolve with every visit. Whether you’re overlooking the downtown skyline, the Loews Marina, or the resort’s lush gardens and pools, each room presents a new angle of paradise.
For those seeking ultimate privacy and residential-style living, the resort’s eight exclusive Waterfront Villas are a destination unto themselves. Nestled just above the bay’s edge
and set apart from the main property, these villas are designed to feel like private sanctuaries, complete with generous living spaces and direct, unobstructed water views. Ideal for romantic escapes, special celebrations, or multi-generational stays, the Villas redefine what it means to “stay on the water.”
What truly distinguishes Loews Coronado Bay Resort is its ability to offer curated luxury alongside approachable, heartfelt hospitality. The resort’s team is known for going the extra mile—from greeting returning guests by name to remembering your favorite glass of wine at dinner. Whether celebrating a special occasion with a surprise amenity or creating custom family-friendly experiences, the personal touches here are genuine and unforgettable.
Guests enjoy in the abundance of on-site activities, including swimming, ping pong, cornhole, and a lively pool deck perfect for soaking in the Southern California sun. During the summer months, complimentary pickleball courts and the Loews at the Strand beach service—complete with lounge chairs, umbrellas, towels, and sand toys—make it easy to enjoy Coronado’s pristine shores. And for those looking to explore the island, a complimentary shuttle to Coronado Village offers a seamless way to enjoy local boutiques, restaurants, and historic sites.
At Loews Coronado Bay Resort, families aren’t just welcomed—they’re celebrated. With the Loews Loves Families program, every detail is designed to make traveling with little ones more joyful and effortless. Parents of babies and toddlers can take advantage of Hello Bello bath and bedtime kits, while Little Spoon purees are available through in-room dining and select resort restaurants.
Children will love the Loews Little Legend program, a fun and engaging activity series where kids can collect stamps while kite flying, swimming, and making s’mores under the stars. Complete the adventures over one stay or several, and young guests will be crowned a Loews Little Legend, receiving a special prize and memories to last a lifetime.
Even four-legged family members get the royal treatment. As a pet-friendly resort, Loews Coronado Bay makes sure your furry companions feel at home, with access to scenic gardens, the marina lawn, and nearby Silver Strand State Beach. Upon arrival, pets receive exclusive amenities, including
gourmet treats crafted by the chef, bowls, a collar tag, and more—because pets deserve pampering, too.
No stay is complete without indulging in the flavors of Southern California, and Crown Landing, the resort’s signature restaurant. Helmed by Executive Chef Ana Rosales, the menu celebrates land and sea through sustainable partnerships with local purveyors like Catalina Offshore Products. Highlights include local catch of the day, rich seafood linguine, and a silky Coronado clam chowder spiked with jalapeño and bacon. Chef Rosales infuses the menu with the soul of her Mexican heritage, creating a culinary experience that is both comforting and elevated.
Cays Lounge, with its fire pit–lined terrace overlooking the marina and downtown skyline, is a favorite for evening cocktails and relaxed bites. For casual fare, La Cantina offers fresh, south-of-the-border flavors poolside, while Silver Strand Exchange keeps guests fueled with grab-and-go options for beach days and excursions.
At Sea Spa + Fitness, guests will discover one of the premier wellness retreats in San Diego. From CBD-infused massages and rejuvenating facials to side-by-side treatments for parents and children, the spa offers something for every traveler. One of the few resort spas in the region to feature a Watsu pool, Sea Spa is designed to restore body and spirit. Complimentary yoga, stretching, sound healing, and spin classes round out a wellness-forward experience that can be tailored to any level of activity.
With its own private marina, the resort is a natural playground for water lovers. Guests can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and sailboats right from the dock—or hop on a bike and explore the scenic Silver Strand Bike Path, a coastal trail bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and San Diego Bay on the other.
And for those visiting for business or group retreats, Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers versatile meeting spaces and scenic venues that seamlessly transition from day to night. From sunset sails off the marina to group pickleball tournaments and al fresco cocktail receptions, the resort offers countless ways to connect.
What makes Loews Coronado Bay Resort truly unforgettable is its one-of-a-kind location. Nestled on a secluded stretch of coastline with panoramic views of the bay, city, and Coronado Bridge, the resort feels worlds away from everyday life—yet it’s just minutes from the vibrant energy of downtown San Diego. Whether you’re watching the sun rise over the water from your balcony, dining under the stars with the skyline as your backdrop, or simply breathing in the salty breeze, every moment here is filled with possibility.
At Loews Coronado Bay Resort, luxury isn’t just about what you see—it’s about how you feel. And from the first welcome to the last look back at the bay, that feeling is unforgettable.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS SEPTEMBER 2025
events
SUNDAYS
Ahwatukee Farmers Market
Ahwatukee Swim & Tennis Center | 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
The Ahwatukee Farmers Market brings together fresh food, arts and crafts, food trucks and more at this signature weekly community event. September is the last month for summer hours at the market, running from 8 to 11 a.m. For more information, visit ArizonaCommunityFarmersMarkets.com/Ahwatukee-Farmers-Market.
SEPTEMBER 19TH
Ballet Under the Stars Presented by Ballet Arizona
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, Stage Plaza | 178 E. Commonwealth Ave. | 7:00 PM
Experience the beauty of dance under the stars in Downtown Chandler! Bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy performances that range from classical to contemporary, all set on an outdoor stage adorned with sparkling lights and beautiful costumes. This free community event includes food trucks and free parking. RSVP at ChandlerCenter.org.
SEPTEMBER 19TH-28TH
Arizona Restaurant Week
Enjoy the variety of culinary delights that Arizona has to offer during the 2025 Arizona Restaurant Week. Diners can enjoy prix-fixe menus at eateries throughout the state for $33, $44 or $55 (prices can be per person or per couple). View participating restaurants and their menus at ArizonaRestaurantWeek.com.
SEPTEMBER 20TH
Animals in Focus: Photography Class
Phoenix Zoo | 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Enjoy a 90-minute walk around the Phoenix Zoo and learn the basics of photography including composition, lighting and capturing emotion. You’ll also learn how to photograph through fences, glass and foliage, and more about the Phoenix Zoo and the natural world. At the end of the walk, you’ll receive a short review of and feedback on your photos. The class is $30 plus Zoo admission. Class size is limited. Visit PhoenixZoo.org for more details.
SEPTEMBER 24TH
Benson Boone
Desert Diamond Arena | 7:00 PM
From the first note of his smash hit “Beautiful Things,” Benson Boone has dominated the charts. The social media star and 2024 Grammy nominee for “Best New Artist” is brining his “American Heart” Tour, supporting his latest album of the same name, to the Valley for one night. Tickets and information available at DesertDiamondArena.com
SEPTEMBER 28TH
Band of Horses and Iron & Wine
Gila River - Wild Horse Pass | 7:00 PM
Band of Horses and Iron & Wine bring nostalgic, poetic, indie-folk charm to The Showroom with rich harmonies, heartfelt storytelling and soul-stirring melodies. Songs like “The Funeral” and “Naked As We Came,” ensure this show will be a slow burn for your senses. For tickets and information, visit PlayatGila.com
