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A R T A D VI SO RY | C U ST OM FR A MI N G | W H I TE G LO V E SE R V I CE VI S IT US A T 1 00 9 W 6 TH S T R E E T A U S T I N , T X W CC .A R T | @ W CC . A RT

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Discovering design, fashion and fearless style

September 2025 PUBLISHER

Zack Fogelman | zack.fogelman@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Julie Royce | julie.royce@citylifestyle.com

Each September, we turn our attention to style — but in Austin, that concept stretches far beyond fashion. In this issue, you’ll meet Gary James McQueen, who fuses fashion legacy with digital art, and Carlette Thierry, an Austin stylist championing sustainability and confidence. We’ll take you behind the scenes of Levitation, a festival where music, fashion and personal expression collide. And we’re stepping into Austin’s unofficial Design District, where galleries, showrooms and studios help shape the city’s aesthetic one project at a time. Style also means substance. Cristina, a four-time Texas Miss Amazing winner, reminds us that true style is about courage and joy. And Chisos Boots, handcrafted right here in Austin, proves that quality craftsmanship never goes out of fashion. Whether it’s what you wear, how you design your home or the way you show up in the world, style is personal — and right here in the heart of Texas, it’s always authentic. J U L I E R OYC E , M A N AG I N G E D I TO R @ AT X C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R S

Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com Juan Martinez | juan.martinez@citylifestyle.com C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Stacy Berg

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 ATX City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the ATX area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

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inside the issue SE PT EMBER 2 0 2 5 | ST Y L E

14 10

Featured

14 20 28 6

Levitation Festival blends music, art and style Austin’s psych-rock celebration returns with immersive sounds, bold visuals and unforgettable downtown experiences

Sustainability styled success

20 On the Cover

Departments

Local stylist Carlette Thierry is all smiles while she finds sustainable styles at local thrift stores.

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Must See ARTS + CULTURE

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Local’s Choice SHOPPING

Our Town HOME + DESIGN

Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE

Events

Thrifted threads shine on the AFW runway

Golden reverie

English artist unveils new digital sculpture works at WCC

Austin’s Design District

Burnet Road beckons those looking for stylish design

Photography: Stacy Berg

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The Dare performs at Levitation. Photo by Daniel Cavazos.

The Black Angels live on stage at Levitation. Photo by Roger Ho.

Photo by Roger Ho.

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

LEVITATION FESTIVAL blends MUSIC, ART and style In a city known for live music, Levitation stands apart — not just as a festival, but as a fully immersive experience where sound, vision and personal style collide. Since its inception in 2008, the Austinborn event has evolved from a psych-rock gathering into a cultural cornerstone, weaving together music, art, fashion and community. “The Black Angels had the idea of ‘let’s invite all our friends and our favorite bands and celebrate the scene,’” Rob Fitzpatrick, Levitation’s Festival Director, said. “From the beginning, the idea has been to cater to the audience. There was an underserved niche waiting to be filled — fans hungry for a place that gathered a new generation of psychedelia and rock music lovers outside the mainstream.” That community-first approach is at the heart of Levitation’s style, both musically and visually. The lineup spans psych, garage, shoegaze, metal, electronic, punk and darkwave, but it’s all connected. “There’s a thread that goes through all this music,” Fitzpatrick said. “It’s our collective record collection coming to life.” For The Black Angels frontman Alex Maas and co-founder of Levitation, the festival has always been about more than genre: It’s about spiritual connection and honoring the roots of Austin’s psychedelic history.

Photo by Ismail Quintinilla.

She She live in concert. Photo by Daniel Cavazos.

CONTINUED >

Austin’s psych-rock celebration returns with immersive sounds, bold visuals and unforgettable downtown experiences

ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STY L E . C O M / AT X

“We’re just chasing some spiritual high we get when we play music and connect with each other,” Maas said. “Making music is such a visual experience for us. It’s about making that connection between sound, emotion and experience and holding on to it for dear life.” That blend of audio and visual isn’t accidental. The festival’s aesthetic draws inspiration from the Op Art movement and the legacy of 1960s psychedelic posters. The Levitation team collaborates with artists and designers from around the world to keep that tradition alive while allowing it to evolve naturally alongside the community. Fitzpatrick explains that the festival’s visual style is a reflection of the audience itself — a living, changing representation of the art, fashion and culture surrounding the music. Aaron Owens, Head of Marketing for Levitation, emphasizes the importance of visual identity in everything from posters to social media. “People see it and go, ‘Oh yeah, that’s Levitation,’” he said. “From the main festival poster to artist-branded assets, we develop content that feels on-brand and meshes with the experience.” This year, Levitation returns September 25-28th with a new venue format -- a central hub at the Palmer Events Center with a multi-stage setting, while hosting nighttime club shows across downtown Austin’s Red River Cultural District. It’s a nod to the city’s music history and an opportunity to revive the immersive festival experience. “Austin has always been a focal point of creativity, free thought and art,” Fitzpatrick said. “Levitation wouldn’t have happened anywhere else.” For Maas, the festival and Austin itself are constantly evolving. “Evolution is real. The city is changing and so are we. Come check it out and see what I mean.” Levitation takes place from September 25-28, 2025. For tickets and full lineup details, visit levitation.fm.

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

The Black Angels. Photo by Sheva Kafai.

Levitation 2025 Highlights Headliners:

Dates:

Mastodon, TV on the Radio, Pavement

September 25-28, 2025

Main Stage:

Night Shows:

Palmer Events Center with immersive light installations

Stubb’s, Mohawk, Elysium, 13th Floor and additional downtown clubs hosting late-night sets

Sust ainabilit y st yled success Thrifted threads shine on the AFW runway

ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF AUSTIN FASHION WEEK

Carlette Thierry’s fashion journey began in her childhood closet, where she remixed hand-me-downs into confidence-boosting outfits that caught the attention of her classmates. Today, the Austin-based designer has taken her eye for bold ensembles to the runway, debuting a sustainable line at Austin Fashion Week 2025 under her brand, CarlettesCreativeCouture. ATX City Lifestyle: How did your spark of creativity evolve into a decade-long career in styling and now your debut as a fashion designer with a sustainable collection at AFW? Thierry: As a young girl, I loved creating new looks from the clothes I already had. I wanted to appear different every day without repeating outfits. My friends started asking for style advice and even shopped my closet

Top: Carlette Thierry with her designs. Image courtesy of Austin Fashion Week.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Image courtesy of Austin Fashion Week.

"I hope my pieces h e l p wo m e n fe e l e m p owe r e d a n d unapologetic about their style, no m a t t e r t h e i r a g e ."

at school. That early interest inspired me to pursue a fashion degree, which led to a 10-year career with Cabi, helping women build wardrobes that fit their lives. It’s been a journey of learning how to help people feel confident through clothing. ATX City Lifestyle: Can you tell us about the concept behind your sustainable collection, which was showcased at AFW 2025? Thierry: The theme of my collection is pattern play. I wanted to create looks that combine different textures and prints in a way that feels bold yet approachable. Many women shy away from patterns because they’re afraid of overdoing it, but I wanted to show how you can layer prints without losing yourself in the outfit. It’s about balance and confidence. ATX City Lifestyle: What materials or techniques did you use to keep it eco-conscious and trendy? Thierry: I focused on sourcing materials that are both sustainable and stylish. I used cotton, polyester and recycled fabrics that retain their shape and quality over time. I wanted the pieces to be fresh and fashionable, yet also built to last. ATX City Lifestyle: What was it like debuting your line at AFW, especially as a local creative? Thierry: It was surreal. After years of working as a stylist for another brand, I finally had the chance to step into my own creative spotlight. That background gave me the tools and experience to launch this line with confidence. Doing it in Austin made it even more meaningful. CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STY L E . C O M / AT X

Image courtesy of Austin Fashion Week.

ATX City Lifestyle: You’ve assisted at New York Fashion Week and collaborated with other designers. How did those experiences prepare you for launching your brand? Thierry: Assisting a San Antonio designer at NYFW taught me a great deal about the behind-the-scenes work that goes into a show — preparing models, handling fittings and managing nerves. That experience motivated me to enroll at ACC to sharpen my design skills and prepare for launching my own collection. Every step has built on the last. ATX City Lifestyle: How do you define CarlettesCreativeCouture, and what do you hope people feel when they wear your pieces? Thierry: CarlettesCreativeCouture is for women — especially those in midlife and beyond — who want to express themselves through bold, stylish choices. I hope my pieces help women feel empowered and unapologetic about their style, no matter their age. Image courtesy of Austin Fashion Week.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

ATX City Lifestyle: As someone with a degree in Retail/Fashion Merchandising and now training in fashion design, how do you blend business savvy with creative expression? Thierry: My retail background taught me the business side of fashion — working with clients, managing inventory, running a small business. Combining that with design training allows me to create pieces that aren’t just beautiful but practical for real women. It’s about knowing your customer and meeting her where she is. ATX City Lifestyle: Where do you see your brand fitting into the sustainability conversation in the next few years? Thierry: I want to help women build smarter wardrobes — by adding a few key pieces, shopping at thrift stores or restyling what they already own. Sustainable fashion isn’t just about fabric — it’s about changing how we think about getting dressed. My goal is to help women feel stylish and responsible at the same time. ATX City Lifestyle: What advice would you give aspiring designers? Thierry: Never give up. Stay informed, volunteer at local events and make connections. Opportunities often come from unexpected places and staying visible can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

"Sust ainable fashion isn’t just about fabric — it’s about changing how we think about getting dressed. My goal is to help women feel stylish and responsible at the same time." Image courtesy of Austin Fashion Week. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STY L E . C O M / AT X

GOLDEN REVERIE

ENGLISH ARTIST UNVEILS NEW DIGITAL SCULPTURE WORKS AT WCC ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WEST CHELSEA CONTEMPORARY

Gary James McQueen has spent the past year immersed in a creative reset, teaching himself new software, experimenting with digital sculpting and building what he calls his most ambitious body of work to date. This September, McQueen will unveil a new collection at West Chelsea Contemporary located in the Clarksville neighborhood on West 6th Street, where he will show alongside Swiss artist Simon Berger.

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

The exhibition, running from Sept. 27 through Oct. 19, marks an evolution in McQueen’s career — one that blends digital artistry, fashion influences and mythological storytelling into a fully immersive visual experience. “I’ve always been interested in pushing boundaries,” McQueen said. “This collection was about learning new ways of working and trying to create something that feels authentic, believable and emotive.” A former textile and print designer for his late uncle, fashion designer Lee Alexander McQueen, Gary James McQueen is known for his dark romantic aesthetic, sculptural digital works and rich visual storytelling. His latest pieces are inspired by the legend of King Midas and the tension between human ambition and the natural world. “The whole concept is this dance between man and nature… who dominates who?” McQueen said. “The gold flowers in the sculptures represent that Midas touch, but also my own touch as an artist, creating a new balance between form and flora.” The 20-piece collection encompasses a range of work, from intimate tabletop sculptures to six-foot-high portraits. The pieces are digitally sculpted and produced as lenticular prints, giving them shifting dimensionality as viewers move around them. A rich color palette of black, gold, coral, teal and alabaster threads throughout the show creates a signature mood that McQueen describes as “melancholic yet romantic.” Notable works include Love Struck, featuring Venus pierced by an arrow — a symbol of missed chances and finding love

“The whole concept is this dance between man and nature… who dominates who?” — and Perseverance, a hand grasping for an apple. At the same time, a serpent coils around the wrist, reflecting the artist’s own creative struggles. “I want the work to feel immersive,” McQueen said. “Style is about atmosphere and emotion. All I can hope is that when people stand in front of it, they feel something.” For more information about this gallery exhibition, please visit wcc.art.

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HEART and Sole

DO RIGHT, LOVE TEXAS THE CHISOS WAY ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHISOS BOOT COMPANY

LOCA L’S CH OICE | SHO PPIN G

Chisos' owner, Will Roman.

Chisos Boots, founded by Will Roman in 2019, has quickly become a staple in Austin’s local scene, blending craftsmanship with a sense of community. Starting in Roman’s downtown apartment, the brand has expanded to a storefront in the Bouldin Creek area, offering luxury boots that strike a balance between comfort and durability. “These boots are not just another pair of cowboy boots – they are a statement of quality and craftsmanship that stands out in a market flooded with mass-produced alternatives,” customer Dominik Schmidt shared. Roman's entry into the boot business stemmed from a personal need. After a motorcycle accident left him with back pain, he struggled to find boots that were both stylish and comfortable. “I wasn’t trying to start a business,” Roman explained. “I was just trying to solve a problem.” His search for a solution took him to Mexico, where he learned bootmaking in Leon, the leather capital of North America. There, he worked with skilled artisans to create boots that could endure long days while looking sharp enough for a night out. Chisos boots stand out for their quality and attention to detail. “We don’t do anything clever,” Roman said. “We just do the basics really well.” CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STY L E . C O M / AT X

The boots are crafted from full-grain leather sourced from dairy cows, a byproduct that would otherwise be discarded. Chisos is committed to sustainable practices, using only the finest materials to ensure each boot is both durable and distinctive. The company prides itself on avoiding shortcuts and mass production, which is a hallmark of many larger boot brands. Roman’s commitment to quality is evident in every pair of boots. Designed to serve both blue-collar workers and fashion-conscious customers, these boots are built to withstand the test of time. “It’s a boot you can wear all day,” Roman said. The brand’s focus on comfort doesn’t compromise its rugged, stylish appeal, setting it apart from mass-produced alternatives.” Chisos is also deeply embedded in the Austin community. The brand hosts local events, such as crawfish boils and anniversary parties, and contributes to local charities. Roman’s goal is to build a business that serves as a cornerstone of the community. “South Congress used to be 100% locally owned, but now it’s about 30%. We’re still holding it down on South First,” he said. Chisos boots are made in small batches to ensure the highest quality. Roman’s dedication to craftsmanship is matched by his approach to customer service, with every customer interaction handled personally and with care.

“When you call, you’re talking to me or one of the team,” he said. “We know our customers and we care about their needs.” For Texans, the brand even offers free shipping, reflecting its deep connection to the state. The name “Chisos” is a tribute to Roman’s love for Texas, inspired by the Chisos Mountains in West Texas. The name evokes strength and resilience, qualities that are mirrored in the boots. “The Chisos Mountains are my happy place,” Roman shared. The boots’ designs incorporate elements from the region, from the outline of the mountains to the petroglyphs found in Big Bend National Park. Looking ahead, Roman plans to expand Chisos’ product range, which will include denim and possibly cowboy hats. However, he remains focused on quality over quantity. “We’re not a fashion company. We’re a Texas brand,” he said. "We’re not chasing trends; we’re building something that lasts." With a commitment to quality, sustainability and community, Roman’s vision for Chisos has become a Texas success story. As he said, “The most sustainable thing you can do is buy something that can be repaired.” And with a pair of Chisos boots, that’s precisely what you get — longevity, durability and a touch of Texas pride with every step you take.

“The most sustainable thing you can do is buy something that can be repaired.”

LOCA L’S CH OICE | SHO PPIN G

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STY L E . C O M / AT X

AUSTIN'S DESIGN DISTRICT

Gentry Custom Frame owner, Lindy Dille.

ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY BERG

O UR TOWN | HO M E + DESIGN

BURNET ROAD BECKONS THOSE LOOKING FOR STYLISH DESIGN

D&W Lighting

Employees hard at work at Gentry Custom Frames.

For decades, the stretch of Burnet Road between 45th Street and Anderson Lane has quietly built a reputation among Austin’s creatives. Long before anyone considered marketing it as a district, the people who worked here — architects, framers, interior designers and shop owners — simply called it what it was: the Design District. Today, the name still fits. On and around Burnet Road, you’ll find a network of businesses that serve both the design trade and everyday homeowners. From kitchen and bath showrooms to lighting specialists, vintage furniture dealers, custom framers and rug galleries, this area has become a destination for anyone interested in transforming their home. And while Burnet is the main artery, the district naturally spills over into the nearby offshoot streets, making it less about hard boundaries and more about a shared community of creative expertise. CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STY L E . C O M / AT X

Jenn and Jeremy Edwards, owners of Kitch Cabinetry and Design, have been part of Austin’s design scene for over two decades. In 2015, they opened their first retail location, about a mile north of their current location. As demand grew, they relocated to what they consider their “forever space” within the Design District. “Living and working in this district gives us a unique design perspective of all the surrounding areas,” Jenn said. “Burnet has evolved from a connector street into the creative design destination for all of Austin.” The Edwardses are deeply involved in every project their company undertakes. “We are truly vested in our business,” she added. “As the owners, our eyes and hands are involved in every single project. Living most of our lives in Austin, we pay close attention to the many different personalities and styles that make Austin so unique.” At Gentry Custom Frames, owner Lindy Dille has spent the past 24 years perfecting her craft. After 23 years downtown, Gentry relocated to Burnet Road in 2022 when its longtime building was sold for redevelopment. Now part of the Design District, Gentry continues to offer custom framing services to homeowners, artists, interior designers and galleries across Austin. “We aspire to work with clients to create a finished piece that they truly love and that showcases their style and personality,” Dille said. “One piece of art can be framed in countless ways, so we try to find the best option for each client. Thinking outside of the box is our specialty — we regularly use options most people don’t even know exist.” With deep roots and a collaborative spirit, the Design District continues to evolve — one project at a time.

The owners of Kitch Cabinetry, Jenn and Jeremy Edwards.

O UR TOWN | HO M E + DESIGN

Joint Detail Vintage Interiors

Wooden Looms Rug Gallery

Additional Design District Businesses

Jenn Edwards showing off one of many designs Kitch creates.

A Custom House (4626 Burnet Rd) – lighting, vintage décor & furniture Shabby Slips Interiors (4807 Burnet Rd) – custom upholstery, mirrors, antiques Wooden Looms Rug Gallery (6415 Burnet Ln) – rugs, restoration & trade services Joint Detail Vintage Interiors (6409 Burnet Ln Unit B) – curated vintage furniture & decor Uptown Modern (5111 Burnet Rd) – restored Danish & mid‑century modern furniture, lighting & rugs The Rug Store (7816 Burnet Rd) – luxury rugs, four‑generation family business D&W Lighting (6403 Burnet Rd) – lamp repair, shades, vintage & custom lighting Images of Austin (5933 Burnet Rd) – custom framing shop, artisan gallery Warden Art Agency (4522 Burnet Rd) – by‑appointment fine art gallery S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STY L E . C O M / AT X

Cristina walking the runway at Austin Fashion Week 2025. Image courtesy of Austin Fashion Week.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

A young woman’s journey of conf idence and kindness

Spreading joy boldly Cristina Kazmierczak doesn’t just walk the runway — she commands it with confidence and joy. A 30-yearold woman with Down Syndrome, Cristina has spent the last two decades in the San Antonio area building a life rooted in family, faith, fitness and fashion. Her recent appearance at the Austin Fashion Awards marked a milestone she worked toward for years. “After auditioning several times, I was so excited when they finally selected me,” Cristina said. “I thought I would be nervous, but the crowd made me feel proud and confident.” Cristina is also a four-time Texas Miss Amazing titleholder. The national pageant platform allows girls and women with disabilities to compete in events that showcase talent, style and leadership. Cristina has earned both the Volunteer and Impact Awards from the organization, reflecting her dedication to advocacy. “Pageants let me show my inner and outer beauty,” she said. “It’s important for people to

recognize that individuals with Down Syndrome are capable of achieving their goals.” Outside of modeling, Cristina works two jobs at the YMCA child watch program and another on the entertainment team at Morgan’s Wonderland, an inclusive theme park in San Antonio. She’s also a board member with the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas, where she mentors young adults on independence and life skills. Her advice to other young women with disabilities is simple: “Take modeling lessons, stay healthy and never give up on your dreams.” For families in Central Texas interested in similar opportunities, Miss Amazing Texas holds annual state pageants. Other programs, like the DSACT and Morgan’s Wonderland, offer leadership, fitness and performance activities that help build confidence and community.

"By smiling, you can spread joy."

ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STY L E . C O M / AT X

SEPTEMBER 2025

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FIA World Endurance Championships Circuit of The Americas Don’t miss the Lone Star Le Mans when it returns to Austin September 5-7, 2025 for the sixth and only North American race in the official World Endurance Championship season. Witness the greatest lineup of horsepower featuring world-class brands including Ferrari, Porsche, McLaren and many more. Ticket price starts at $60. SE PT E M BE R 6T H

Bat Fest Congress Avenue Bridge | 3:00 PM Celebrate this batty event as the world's largest urban bat colony (1.5 million Mexican Free-Tailed Bats, which take up seasonal residence beneath the Ann Richards Congress Street Bridge) take to the skies for their nightly flight. Enjoy live music, children's activities, a costume contest and more from 3 p.m. to midnight. The price ranges from $20 to $100.

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