THE STYLE ISSUE
LIFE + CULTURE
FEATURING FASHION ICON RACHEL ROY & THE DASH SISTERS
THE STYLE ISSUE
Style is subjective. What one person considers chic, another might find outdated, understated, or over-the-top. But in Austin—like many great cities around the world—style is embraced as an act of self-expression, not confined to rules or expectations. Whether it's a formal dress paired with sneakers or a thrifted band tee and designer heels, trendy butter-yellow nails or hand-painted designs from Queens Spa, Austin welcomes it all.
Some things, however, are never up for debate. Kindness is always stylish. Mahjong? Definitely having a moment. And reading books? Forever in fashion—we hope! Our cover star, Rachel Roy, is a fashion icon with poise and a timeless personal style.
We had the privilege of doing a shoot with Rachel and witnessing the beautiful bond she shares with her daughters, Ava and Tallulah. Rachel has designed a namesake couture line and continues to design more accessible RACHEL Rachel Roy.
In our interview, we talk with Rachel about designing clothes, redesigning her home, and the care she puts into designing her life. We learn more about her through the lens of her daughters. We also interviewed icon of the beauty world Bobbi Brown. Three pages barely scratch the surface of her wisdom, so we’ll be diving into her new autobiography, out this month.
Speaking of books… Matthew McConaughey has a collection of poems out this month, The UT Press celebrates its 75th anniversary, Ava shares she’d love to turn a book she wrote with her mom into a film, and I’m proud to share that my debut novel is finally out! More than a decade after former NFL player Dhani Jones and I crafted the story, Chasing Sunsets Down I-80 is now available in paperback and eBook, with a cover painted by local artist Avery Price.
Last, but top of mind these last few months, this is our first issue to print since the devastating July floods. We want to take a moment to honor the children we lost, and extend our deepest sympathies to those still grieving. We are also profoundly grateful to the individuals, businesses, and organizations that stepped up to support our community in the aftermath. In Austin, kindness isn’t just a value—it’s part of our identity. And that’s always in style.
With love,
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Joe Kerby | joe.kerby@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Montannah Kerby | montannah.kerby@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Jennifer Birn | jennifer.birn@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Dominique Bejarano
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dani Dudek, Stephanie Coultress O'Neill
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Laura Morsman
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 Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
JENNIFER BIRN, EDITOR @AUSTINLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
*Editor Letter photo by Laura Morsman at Hotel ZaZa
inside the issue
Iconic Make-up Artist Bobbi Brown
Rachel Roy’s Life by Design
AUSTIN'S NEIGHBORHOOD PRIVATE SOCIAL CLUB
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN
Kip McClanahan’s been in Austin for a long time, graduating from the University of Texas with an Electrical Engineering degree in the 90s. A dozen years ago, he purchased a piece of property that in 2018 would become home to The Pershing House, Austin’s first members-only social club. But, don’t let its private status mislead you into thinking it’s pretentious. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The spaces at The Pershing are cloaked in velvet and kindness, with hospitality and human connection at the core of the club.
When we spoke with Kip he said the impetus for opening the club was because, “ The city’s growth seemed to demand a place that started to celebrate and protect what was special about Austin and celebrate the best of our city’s music, food, art and culture,” adding “It was important to capture that “original Austin” vibe that would resonate with Austinites, no matter how long you’ve lived here. In doing so, the intent was to create an experience where our members could connect with each other
The Pershing House
At Pershing, like Austin itself, so much has changed, but the heart remains the same...
or find space just to be themselves, “I believe we succeeded.” Here’s more from our conversation.
HOW HAS PERSHING PIVOTED FROM YOUR INITIAL IDEA?
At a societal level, I think we’re all currently experiencing increasing social atrophy. Our busy lives and careers, our dang phones, social media, Netflix binging, global uncertainty, the stress that comes with that and 100 other things are creating a crisis of disconnection. I think Pershing’s initial idea around amazing spaces, people, art, food, drinks and service are becoming table stakes for what now seems more important: a place where people can engage meaningfully with one another. This is bigger than our
Parts of Pershing
The Pershing House is ever-evolving and has a spaces to suit everything from a work meeting to date night
Pershing House: The original private dining and social club
Pershing Hall: Events venue for larger celebrations, live music, speaker series and open-to-the-public events
Pershing East Coffee Coffeehouse: Across the street and open to the public
Pershing Milkman: Curated cocktails at Pershing East available to-go and for delivery
Pershing Co-Working A co-working space (housed in the former game room) where you can be head down on your laptop or host meetings in conference rooms. Food and drinks can be from Pershing East for delivery on the app.
Reciprocal Clubs: Over 2,000 worldwide.
Find The Pershing House at 2415 E. Fifth St., Austin, TX 78702 and inquire about membership at thepershing.com
Pershing Milkman
Pershing Co-Working Space
original vision and seems critically important today. Perhaps this is more of an evolution than a pivot. It’s a place for disconnecting, connecting or re-connecting – it depends on you!
WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE LAST SEVEN YEARS?
There are so many. We have incredible signature events around holidays like Halloween and some of the artists we’ve had at Pershing have been stunning. Our recent Pershing Talks speaker series featured 4-star General James Rainey speaking on the Future of War; it was eye-opening! Wu-Tang Clan made pizzas in our pizza oven after a show; we passed on Lizzo (wish we could take that one back!) and had Bishop Briggs (she was fantastic!) play during one ACL Fest; The Surrealist Ball Halloween party stands out. Our annual Friendsgiving at Thanksgiving is a pretty special event. In January of this year, we hosted a month-long tasting experience for Hestia just before they received their Michelin star. Artist Bill Tavis spent a weekend painting a mural in our house - amazing to see and even more amazing to watch him do it.
HOW OFTEN ARE YOU AT THE PERSHING HOUSE?
I’m there every week for one reason or another. The food program we have now run by chef Mike Warnock is incredible - some of the very best in Austin. I’d probably eat dinner there every night if my schedule allowed it!
WHAT’S SOMETHING ABOUT THE PERSHING HOUSE YOU’RE MOST PROUD OF?
Without question: Our members and staff and the community they’ve created at Pershing.
YOU HAVE OVER 2000 RECIPROCAL CLUBS, WHICH ONE HAVE YOU VISITED MOST OFTEN?
The clubs in London and New York, but I have my sights on so many more. One thing we’ve thought about doing is creating some fun “passport” program for our members where we can track and compete on who can visit the most around the world over time. It’s an incredible global network that we will keep growing; being treated like a local member when you visit our reciprocal clubs is an amazing experience and our members feel it’s a huge value.
FOR ALL THE PEOPLE NEW TO AUSTIN, WHY WOULD YOU TELL THEM THEY SHOULD JOIN THE PERSHING?
One reason is that Pershing creates an instant community for our members. If you have recently moved to Austin, a shortcut to the best people and culture is a huge optimization. One could say “networking” but it’s so much more than that. We have microsocieties that focus on areas of interest from wine enthusiasts to mountain biking to vinyl audiophiles. I’ve met people at Pershing whom I consider best friends. I know members who met their significant others there. The ability to come to Pershing, as someone new to Austin or someone who has been here 44 years, and have the best of Austin art, music and food brought directly to you at the club...what’s not to love?
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE?
That’s hard. Here are two that love and think are relevant to Pershing: “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” —Vincent Van Gogh “Community is the new currency.”
-I think it’s an original
Timeless Make-up Artist BOBBI BROWN
A life full of inspirational chapters she's put on the page and shared with us
Thirty-five years ago, Bobbi Brown created 10 natural lipstick shades that would set the foundation for Bobbi Brown Essentials. Five years later, the company sold to Estée Lauder – and the day the 25-year non-compete expired, she launched Jones Road, which opened a store on South Congress mid-April. Rounding out an epic year where she was also honored by Time magazine as one of the world’s 100 most influential people, Bobbi is releasing her tenth book later this month. We had an engaging chat with her on what keeps her motivated, how this book is different, makeup advice, life advice and more.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN
Top right: Photo by Rebecca Miller
AT WHAT POINT DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO START ANOTHER LINE?
When I left my namesake brand after spending over two decades creating it, I didn’t know what I was going to do next. I didn’t have a clue who I was without being on the corporate treadmill I had become accustomed to. But, I can’t sit still. I don’t have any hobbies, so I jumped into a few initiatives that I thought were cool and interesting. I launched a JustBobbi shop with Lord & Taylor. I partnered with my husband, Steven Plofker, and together, we created The George, a 31-room boutique hotel in our hometown, Montclair, NJ. And I launched a new editorial website, a podcast, and a line of wellness products.
I was the first makeup artist asked to create a MasterClass, which was such an honor. That project made me realize that, at my core, I am a makeup artist first, and that I needed to return to my roots and start developing a new makeup line. So, I started experimenting with some formulas, which later became the launch collection of Jones Road Beauty. We launched on October 26, 2020 - the day my 25-year non-compete with Estee Lauder expired - and I haven’t looked back since. I’m proud of my legacy, but I’ve learned that things change, and you always need to move forward.
MANY PEOPLE DREAM OF RETIRING TO A BEACH COMMUNITY OR THE COUNTRYSIDE - WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED TO KEEP CREATING?
When I left my first company, I was 59 years old and I had no plan about what I was going to do next. But I don’t golf or play tennis. I love to create things – that’s my passion. I realized that I wasn’t done and that there was a need in the market for another clean beauty line, so I started envisioning Jones Road.
When I launched Jones Road Beauty at 63, I didn’t know if anyone would care. But one lesson I’ve learned as an entrepreneur is that if you wait for the “perfect time” to do anything, nothing happens. I don’t wait. I create. Sometimes you just feel it. It’s a quiet nudge or a whisper that says, there’s something more That’s how it started for me. And once I listened to it, I couldn’t unhear it.
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCES BETWEEN JONES ROAD AND BOBBI BROWN COSMETICS?
Everything about Jones Road is different, mainly because everything about the business has changed. We have better product ingredients, so we can now create clean formulas that actually work. Also, everything about distribution has changed -- we don’t need department stores because we sell online. And, the rise of social media has allowed brands like Jones Road to engage directly with customers. When I began envisioning a new brand, I didn’t think about what was already out there. I was focused on the changing beauty landscape and developing the products that I wanted, but that didn’t exist yet.
WHERE DID THE NAME JONES ROAD COME FROM?
We had worked with some copywriters and were racking our brains on the name for weeks, and nothing was sticking. Then one day, my husband and I were driving somewhere in the Hamptons, and I was navigating. I looked down and there it was on the WAZE
When I launched Jones Road Beauty at 63, I didn’t know if anyone would care. But one lesson I’ve learned as an entrepreneur is that if you wait for the “perfect time” to do anything, nothing happens. I don’t wait. I create.
navigation app: Jones Road. I immediately loved the name, and so did my husband. We checked to see if it was available, and it was, so the brand became Jones Road.
AUSTIN IS THE 9TH JONES ROAD STORE? AND THE BIGGEST?
Our Austin store is 1,200 square feet and is the largest store we’ve opened to date. Located at 1714 B South Congress Avenue, it offers the full assortment of Jones Road products—currently over 250 SKUs—as well as limited edition kits curated around specific looks, seasons, or by customer demand.
Jones Road makeup artists are always on hand for shade matching, product inquiries, and makeup applications in the store (with advanced booking available). The new store will also carry exclusive Austin merch, and some of the artwork in the space will pay homage to old Austin.
HAVE YOU SPENT MUCH TIME IN AUSTIN?
Opening the store in Austin has given me the chance to visit more often, and I’ve come to love the vibe of this town. It’s vibrant, cool, artistic, and the people are just so down to earth. I also love that it’s a college town and a city filled with so many entrepreneurs. These are my people.
YOU HAVE YOUR 10TH BOOK, BUT YOUR FIRST MEMOIR COMING OUT THIS MONTH. HOW WAS THE PROCESS OF WRITING THIS BOOK DIFFERENT?
All my other books have been books about beauty and wellness, but Still Bobbi is a very personal memoir, so unlike anything else
I’ve written before. Writing about my own personal and professional journey has been both hard and very cathartic. The process has helped me understand myself a little bit better – what drives me, why I’ve been able to do the things I’ve done, and how I got to the happy place I’m in today. I hope people will relate to my story because it’s been full of ups and downs, but that’s life, right?
And for this one, there’s an audiobook version! I read it myself and I blocked out four days to get it done…that’s a new part of the process I’d never experienced for sure!
WHAT ARE SOME TAKEAWAYS OR LESSONS YOU SHARE IN THE BOOK?
With Still Bobbi , I write about the moments that shaped me –not just the big wins, but the pivots, the doubts, the uncomfortable growth. Reinvention is rarely a straight line. It’s more like a patchwork quilt of risks, instincts, and gut feelings you learn to trust.
IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF MAKEUP ADVICE, IT WOULD BE…
What I hope to teach all women is that true beauty is not about makeup – it’s about being confident in your own skin. Embrace who you authentically are, flaws and all, because that is the true definition of beauty. When I was a young makeup artist coming up in the business I was surrounded by 6 foot tall supermodels who could wear anything they wanted and look amazing in it. I tried every fad diet hoping to look like them, but guess what – I’m 5 feet tall and that wasn’t going to happen! When I started embracing my 5-foot-tall frame and wearing clothes that fit me, I started to feel more confident in my own skin. My advice is to be happy, be kind to yourself, and set your own personal standards of beauty.
IS THERE A MAKEUP TREND YOU’D LIKE TO SEE GO AWAY?
Anyone who follows me on Instagram knows I still have a hard time understanding why people feel the need to contour their faces.
JONES ROAD IS ‘CLEAN MAKEUP.’ WHAT IS IN ORDINARY MAKEUP THAT’S EXCLUDED FROM YOUR PRODUCTS?
There was no question in my mind that as I was formulating the products, they would have to be clean. I eat organic. I use
environmentally safe cleaning products in my home… so it was only natural that I’d want to create products with the same ethos. I also really like a challenge, and I honestly didn’t know If It was possible to create what I wanted using all clean formulations, but it was!
The Credo Clean Beauty standards are the most stringent, and that’s the bar I wanted to hold ourselves to. Jones Road products are made without 2,700 potentially toxic ingredients, including parabens, phthalates, sulfates, PEGs, cyclic silicones, BPA, and EDTA.
Take mascara, for example: Mascara is one of the hardest products to keep natural because in most mascaras, the four main ingredients – paraffin wax, polymers, disodium EDTA, and PEG – do not comply with our clean beauty standards. My product development team is exceptional, and the teams they work with were able to successfully replace these common ingredients with high-performing clean alternatives.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE?
“When you see a fork in the road, take it.” My dear friend and Montclair neighbor, the legendary Yogi Berra, said it, and it resonates with me now more than ever.
RACHEL ROY’S LIFE BY DESIGN
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA MORSMAN
THE ICONIC FASHION DESIGNER HAS A LITANY OF ADMIRABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS – NONE OF THEM AN ACCIDENT
Rachel Roy is remarkable. She launched her namesake fashion line in 2004, was inducted into the Council of Fashion Designers of America in 2007 and launched more accessible clothes, shoes, accessories and home goods brand RACHEL Rachel Roy in 2009. She’s dressed a who’s who of marquee names including Michelle Obama, Melania Trump, Kate Hudson, Iman, Jennifer Garner, Kim Kardashian, Penelope Cruz and more.
Rachel was named a UN Women Champion for Innovation for her philanthropic work including her Kindness is Always Fashionable initiative and currently provides meals to thousands of children in need via her skincare line Ancient India’s giveback program. That’s her resume. The person behind it is even more exceptional.
Rachel has a presence. When she walks into a room you can’t help but notice – even though there was a time she wished to blend in. She has passion, for so many things, and that passion is inspiring. She has compassion – and when it’s directed at you it’s like being wrapped in a warm hug. Rachel has two daughters, Ava Dash, 25, and Tallulah Dash, 17, and they’re the core of her world. That world is now anchored in Austin, where Rachel and her girls moved early summer 2024, although Rachel says, “in many ways it feels like we have been here much longer.” And, while Ava, who appears on the inaugural season of Bravo’s Next Gen NYC has been spending time in New York, Rachel says, “Home is wherever her sister and I are.” We spent time with Rachel during a photo shoot at Hotel ZaZa and learned about what drew her to Austin, the project filling her time since she’s arrived, how living a life by design was a lesson she learned early and more.
WHAT DREW YOU TO AUSTIN?
I chose Austin for the size of the city; large while still feeling intimate, and because it felt like a city ideal for young people, perfect
for both of my children. After living in Manhattan for 10 years and Los Angeles for 10 years, I traveled the country looking for our next home. Austin felt like it had the largest amount of young people that could still navigate on their own in a safe environment, that is not easy to find these days. Coming from the Los Angeles area, I did not want what that was; I was looking for the opposite of what is going on there but with a vibrancy that was palpable. I found that here.
YOU’VE BEEN RENOVATING YOUR HOUSE FOR THE LAST YEAR OR SO, WHAT MADE YOU DO IT YOURSELF RATHER THAN HIRE A CONTRACTOR OR INTERIOR DESIGNER?
I bought a modern house because I liked the location, but I am not a modern house girl, so every inch of the home needed to change. Yes, it is lovely to have one person who can handle everything for you when it comes to remodeling your home, but for me, that was a cost that tripled the project. I wanted to design and change the house more than my budget allowed, and quickly discovered I could only do that by becoming my own contractor. At the end of the day, no matter if you hire a fancy design firm or if you hire folks yourself, the trades that are doing the actual work are almost all same. The exception to that is wallpaper installers, that is a lost art. For me, the key is finding trades that you trust and that just takes trial and error and time. There are some really talented trades that have never been hired directly or given the opportunity to create and those are the ones I enjoy working with. I have seen trades blossom with the opportunity to design, make decisions on their own and work with rare materials that I tend to be attracted to. Early on I had a few awful experiences with companies and individuals looking to take advantage. Keeping my head down, one foot in front of the other and consistency, just like with all forms of business, I made it past those early mishaps and learned from the mistakes. I have learned so much about building vs renovating, designing interiors vs decorating a room this year.
WHAT HAVE YOU ENJOYED MOST ABOUT THE PROCESS?
The finished project, the after photos! And living in them. But seriously, I hope I’m teaching my daughters that they can design the life they wish to live at any point in their lives - not by waiting for someone else, but by their own doing. And when you change your environment, you change your life.
WHAT ARE SOME DESIGN ELEMENTS YOU’VE ADDED TO YOUR HOUSE YOU’RE PARTICULARLY FOND OF?
My bathroom is a favorite. The tub backsplash is an Italian marble called Monet, it has green, oxblood, brown and creams running through it and it is more beautiful than any painting I could imagine. My favorite artist and painting is Claude Monet’s Waterlilies, so apparently I am consistent in my likes. I am also deeply in love with the oxblood handmade tiles from Spain by Ann Sacks that come with their own matching crown tiles. They remind me of a 1940’s Parisian pharmacy. Tile transforms.
IS THE PROCESS INFORMING NEW RACHEL RACHEL ROY HOME PIECES?
Absolutely, I am someone who greatly yearns for learning and what I learn I enjoy passing on. Everything that comes to us is meant to be shared. Those who grasp onto what they are given are not people I want to know or be around.
Vintage Blazer, Ralph Lauren cardigan, Magnolia & Pearl handstitched denim Manolo Blahnik nude croc pumps
“WHEN YOU CHANGE YOUR ENVIRONMENT, YOU CHANGE YOUR LIFE”
On Tallulah: Set from estilo; On Rachel: Blouse from ZIMMERMANN’S Fall Collection, pants from estilo
DO YOU STILL ACTIVELY DESIGN CLOTHES FOR RACHEL RACHEL ROY?
Yes, I started Rachel Roy over 20 years ago in Bergdorf Goodman, my very first account. After five years, I expanded to a secondary collection, Rachel Rachel Roy which is in Nordstrom, Macys, TJMaxx and beyond. I design many categories for my namesake brand, dresses, denim, casual wear, jewelry, home décor, it’s such a joy.
AND YOU NOW ALSO HAVE A SKINCARE LINE, ANCIENT INDIA. WHEN DID THAT LAUNCH, AND WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO START A SKINCARE LINE?
As I evolve my 20-plus years in the fashion industry, I was looking to create a company on my own and with my current life mission: to create with a mission for good. In 2017 I developed a rare skin disease, Scleroderma Coup de Sabre. With the help of an expert at Johns Hopkins, as well as Ayurveda doctors, I
A glimpse of Rachel's renovated kitchen
began my journey of recovery. Through this, I began studying the ancient wisdom traditions of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old science of well-being from India. I traveled to the Himalayas to work with expert scientists in the field and over the years, grew to deeply understand Ayurveda and what our personal inner pharmacy needs for prime well-being—principles much of which had been taught to me by my father growing up. Making a full recovery, I was inspired to begin the journey of following my dharma, which led me to want to develop skin care products I could use that were powerful, natural and safe for all skin types and led with a mission of giving back. Ancient India Skincare combines the best of science and nature and feeds my need to help others- with every purchase I am able to provide 100 meals to children in great need.
YOU DESIGN CLOTHING, YOU DESIGN ACCESSORIES, YOU DESIGN HOME GOODS. YOU WROTE A BOOK DESIGN YOUR LIFE. YOU OBVIOUSLY HAVE A LIFE BY DESIGN. DO THE LATTER TAKE A LOT OF DISCIPLINE?
Not discipline, but rather it takes knowing yourself and being true to what you know how to do well and what you love to do, as opposed to what someone else wants of you. I knew myself well enough to know my strengths and my weaknesses from a pretty early age, thanks to my father. I have worked since I was 14, and it has always been in retail. My father dropped me off at McDonald’s and told me not to come home until I had a job, so I asked him to take me to the mall instead, and I started working that day. I learned at 14 I could make a woman look her best, and make a room look its best, make windows and a shop look their best. But there was much I could not do, still can’t – I’m terrible with numbers. I was raised by a strong proud immigrant father who would not settle for me being a wallflower despite my best efforts of trying to blend in with my surroundings and not stand out. Eventually I learned to embrace it and soon I learned hard consistent work in a field I loved, led to a better quality of life. I did design my life even at 14. I chose the mall over fast food.
DO YOU JOURNAL AND VISION BOARD THE LIFE YOU WANT?
Yes, almost daily. We are all visual creatures. Seeing something consistently, breathing something over and over, thinking something repeatedly, we will become that in some way or another, for better or worse. I choose to make my circle very small because of this. Positive thoughts and images truly help me and I suspect it is the same for many others. I believe the true 1% of the 1% are not the billionaires, but those who walk with joy. The greatest measure of success is joy.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR NON-NEGOTIABLES EACH DAY?
Lemon ginger and turmeric in warm water, prayer and boundaries.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU WEAR YOUR OWN CLOTHING OR ACCESSORIES?
My daily uniform when I am not going out and don’t need to be public facing consists of vintage Levis, either 501’s or Orange Tab, with a black Rachel Rachel Roy cardigan worn as a shirt, turquoise or morganite jewelry and Feiyue sneakers.
I believe the true 1% of the 1% are not the billionaires, but those who walk with joy. The greatest measure of success is joy.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CURRENT STYLE?
Menswear with a twist of feminine chic. I have been inspired by menswear for as long as I have been designing. What most don’t know is that all trends in womenswear start with the men’s collections. To me, there is nothing chicer than a Dunhill Collection.
HAS IT CHANGED SINCE MOVING TO TEXAS?
I trade the Feiyue sneakers for Lucchese Priscilla’s!
YOU’RE SO ACCOMPLISHED. APART FROM YOUR DAUGHTERS, WHAT IN YOUR LIFE ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
Creating a home life for my children and myself better than the one I was born into, not repeating patterns, not following the crowd, not easily swayed by bs. These are all things I am proud of.
IF YOU HAVE TAUGHT YOUR DAUGHTERS ONE LESSON, YOU HOPE THAT IT’S…
They have the power within themselves to create a life they dream of, no one will hand them anything, their life is up to them. And knowing they have the tools to find their way back to joy when life gives them heartache.
WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU ADMIRE ABOUT EACH OF YOUR DAUGHTERS?
Ava, I admire her strength and her calmness. Her superpower is not overreacting, knowing when to walk away from toxic environments rather than becoming toxic like many people do when they feel wronged. Ava is cool, graceful chic and confident.
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Tallulah, I admire her heart and ability to communicate in any environment and to any person. Her superpower is her capacity to give love openly and the strength to lead her peers while being 100% herself. Tallulah is as rare and as wonderful as her name, a heart as big as the sun, empathetic and wise.
IS THERE ANYTHING LEFT ON YOUR CAREER BUCKET LIST?
I would love for Ancient India Skin Care to generate enough to be able to create homes/safe havens for displaced children. I would like to design a collection of furniture and tile and lamps from vintage objects and fabrics. I would like to host a home design show. I would like to continue to design for as long as I live, for me to create is to live.
AND YOUR LIFE BUCKET LIST?
Getting married, with both of my girls walking me down the aisle.
QUICK FIRE
If I could have one superpower The ability to protect children and animals
Favorite book The Four Agreements
Favorite quote “Forgive not because someone deserves forgiveness, forgive because you deserve peace” Deepak Chopra
Favorite Austin restaurant Jeffreys
I’m inspired by… risk takers, bravery & extreme intelligence
On Rachel: Sweater: Miu Miu Skirt: Rachel Roy Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
Getting to Know The Dash Sisters
Fashion & style are in their DNA
Ava and Tallulah Dash, whose mom is Rachel Roy and father is Damon Dash, now call Austin home, although Ava, 25, spends much of her time in NYC, where she’s on hit Bravo show Next Gen NYC. The sisters dished with Austin Lifestyle on lessons they’ve learned from their fashion icon mom, what they like about Austin and more.
WHAT’S A LESSON YOU LEARNED ABOUT FASHION FROM YOUR MOM?
Ava: That effortless doesn’t mean boring. My mom can make jeans and a button-down look chic any day of the week.
Tallulah: My favorite is to never follow trends. Being in high school it’s easy to latch onto what other people are wearing and want designer labels. I’ve learned I prefer when you can’t see labels, when what you wear looks uniquely your own.
WHAT’S A LIFE LESSON OR BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED FROM YOUR MOM?
Ava: My mom has always encouraged me to trust my gut, in all facets of life -whether that’s in relationships, fashion or in my career. It’s a simple but very powerful message. When I was a kid, I really wanted a Juicy Couture sweatsuit for the first day of 5th grade to match all of my friends. She wouldn’t buy me one, she said it was vulgar for kids to wear expensive labels and instead she made me wear two different pairs of earrings and told me that soon all of
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA MORSMAN
my friends would be wearing two different pairs too. I cried, but wore them. Within a week, my friends started wearing two different pairs of earrings. I learned a big lesson from that moment.
Tallulah: The best advice my mom has given me is to always be in a state of gratitude and gratefulness. This helps me live in the present and be able to adapt to all kinds of situations. When I’m feeling sad, I’ve learned that helping others is what helps me get back to ‘happy’ the quickest.
WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO SHOP?
Ava: My mom’s closet, obviously. But also The Real Real, Bergdorfs (in person), and sometimes I just go down a Moda Operandi rabbit hole.
Tallulah: Thrift stores have never let me down. Most of my closet is vintage and secondhand.
Ava Dash in dress by Rick Owen’s and shoes Azzedine Alaia
Tallulah and Ava Dash...Tallulah outfit: Sweater: Rachel Rachel Roy Leather Skirt: Michiko Koshino Shoes: Azzedine Alaia
WHERE DO YOU GET MOST OF YOUR FASHION INSPIRATION?
Ava: I love looking at my mom’s old paparazzi or red carpet images. I love pulling inspiration from old Calvin Klein ads, people on the NYC sidewalks and Pinterest.
Tallulah: I get inspired by my environment, so traveling, exploring, and being in nature is what inspires me the most, not only in fashion, but all areas of my life. I enjoy seeing how other people live and what they wear in other countries and cities. This summer I went to Big Sur and was inspired to dress hippie chic. When I go to NYC I’m inspired to wear menswear.
WHAT IS CURRENTLY ON YOUR CAREER BUCKET LIST?
Ava: There are so many goals and dreams that I’d love to accomplish
one day. I just signed with FORD models, which was a huge goal for me. I’d love to expand to the European and Asian markets. My mom and I co-authored a Young Adult novel called 96 Words for Love, which is a retelling of a famous Indian folktale. It has been a dream of mine to produce the novel into a TV show one day.
WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU LIKE ABOUT AUSTIN?
Ava: It’s a really diverse city that feels like a neighborhood, where people are friendly and down to chat everywhere you go. And I love that there are always so many different activities to do! From eating at new restaurants, to going shooting, to relaxing at the Lake Austin Spa, to going to different music or film festivals. I love that I feel welcomed in our community already.
Tallulah: Coming from a big city like Los Angeles, Austin feels like a big warm hug. I like going to a farmer’s market in Spicewood. There is an older gentleman that designs rings made out of old bullets. His stories and character is as interesting and different as his rings. I never take off that ring now. Another of my favorite places in Austin is H-E-B it’s so big. When they said everything was bigger in Texas, they were right. There’s an aisle for every country. They even have my favorite Japanese soda which I normally can only find at sushi restaurants.
Tallulah Dash in Alice + Olivia
Favorite Five Trends for Fall
As temperatures start to cool (even just a little), it’s the perfect time to start breaking out the fall trends and statement pieces. The maxi coat is a layering essential—long with clean lines, it can effortlessly transform an outfit. Fringe is having another big moment, especially on bags and jackets—but in Texas, it never really goes out of style when done right. Velvet adds a rich touch to tailored blazers and is great for dressing up denim or completing an already dressy look. A great fall outfit stands out with a slouchy boot—textured, heeled, and just structured enough to elevate almost any outfit. And, embellished denim. It brings a bit of edge to the everyday piece, whether it’s a vintage-wash vest or hardware detailing on jeans. These pieces are an easy way to get fall-ready—stylish, wearable, and right on time for the season shift.
These few things can take your fall wardrobe to the next level
Top left: Velvet | Bottom left: Slouchy Boot | Middle: Maxi Coat | Top right: Fringe | Bottom right: Embellished denim
Dani Dudek’s Guide to Thrifting
FIND MORE THRIFT TIPS @THRIFTWITHDANID AND SPILLING THE TEA AT @SPILLTHEATX
Cash In On Discounts
Most thrift stores offer discount days for weekly colored tags, kid’s clothes, furniture and more. APA! Thrift offers a $5 reward for every $50 spent if you join their loyalty program. At Savers in Cedar Park you can save 20% by bringing in donations.
Art Work
While you’ll see many items from Hobby Lobby and Homegoods, you also may have the opportunity to score a real work of art. Look for things that are signed and dated and use real oils and paints rather than reprints.
Wander More
It’s no secret that thrifting is increasing in popularity. Consider taking a drive out to some smaller towns like Wimberley or Lockhart to see what they have to offer. Estate and yard sales are also great ways to score a super deal.
When you find a piece of silver at a thrift store it’s often incredibly tarnished and consequently overlooked and underpriced. But, you can shine that treasure up in minutes and have it looking brand new. Check for an etching that says “925,” “92.5,” or “SS” to confirm the piece is sterling silver.
People always ask how I get such good deals. The answer is simple: I thrift a lot. In fact, I drop into my local Goodwill two to three times a week. Try check new items as they are brought out onto the floor and ask about the most popular re-stock days and times.
Vintage
Breaking Book News
Celebrating local literature including UT’s publishing milestone, another hit from McConaughey – and our EIC’s debut novel
The University of Texas Press has published more than 4,000 books over seven decades! In celebration of their 75th anniversary this year, they’re having an event at the downtown Austin Central Library on Sunday, September 21 with several of their authors.
The day-long literary event will open with Mayor Kirk Watson announcing a UT Press Day proclamation, followed by conversations with authors and editors throughout the day. Featured authors include Sarah Bird discussing her UT Press publications, David Hillis and Asher Elbein discussing conservation and nature, grief specialist Lisa Keefauver speaking with Dr. Art Markman from the “Two Guys on Your Head” podcast and acclaimed essayist Stephan Harrigan in conversation with New Yorker writer Rachel Monroe. The event will conclude with Hanif Abdurraquib and Jessica Hopper, authors and editors with UT Press’ American Music Series.
WHENSeptember 21, 2025 from 10am to 8pm
WHERE: Austin Central Library:710 W. Cesar Chavez) | Special Event Center
*Free and open to the public; Follow along on Instagram @utexaspress
POEMS & PRAYERS
By: Matthew McConaughey
Five years after the Academy Award-winning actor released Greenlights, which spent 99 weeks on the New York Times hardcover bestseller list, 34 weeks (and counting) on the paperback bestseller list, and 56 consecutive months (and counting) on the audio bestseller list, his latest book, Poems & Prayers, will be published September 16.
Poems & Prayers is described as “An inspiring, faith-filled, and often hilarious collection of McConaughey’s writings on navigating the rodeo of life...” In it he says, “I’ve always relied on logic to make sense of myself and the world. A prescriptionist at heart, I’ve always looked to reason to find the rhyme, the practical to get to the mystical, the choreography to find the dance, the proof to get to the truth, and reality to get to the dream.” He says, “I’ve been finding that tougher to do lately…But I don’t want to quit believing.. put proof on the shelf for a season, and rhyme our way to reason.”
An audiobook edition, read (of course) by McConaughey himself, will be released simultaneously by Penguin Random House Audio.
CHASING SUNSETS DOWN I-80
By: Jennifer Birn with Dhani Jones
The debut novel from Austin Lifestyle’s Editor-in-Chief follows Sarah Emma, a publicist grappling with the loss of her mother and the shocking family secrets she subsequently uncovers.
Beginning with the story of her grandparents, Charlotte and Frederic Rosenthal, Holocaust survivors who rebuilt their lives in postwar America, Sarah Emma shares her story with Liam, a journalist, in real time. A multi-generational story of survival, love, identity and the invisible threads that bind generations, the story is told in dual timelines and explores how the past informs the present, and how chasing the setting sun can sometimes lead you home. The story was a collaboration with former NFL player Dhani Jones while they made the cross-country road trip, like the characters in their book. The book cover was painted by local Austin artist Avery Price. It’s available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and more.
Restoring Commercial Real Estate
Value
Rolling Suds, the nation’s leading power washing franchise, dedicates its services to revitalizing and enhancing the value of commercial real estate properties.
SEPTEMBER 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
SEPTEMBER 12TH
Aloe Blacc
3TEN Austin City Limits Live
Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum artist Aloe Blacc is stopping in Austin in his first major tour in several years. It comes on the heels of his new album Stand Together — a soul-stirring, genre-blending project that pairs every song with a nonprofit cause, further cementing his reputation as one of music’s most thoughtful and socially conscious voices.
SEPTEMBER 20TH-21ST
20th Annual Austin NARI
Remodeled Homes Tour
Various locations around Austin | 10:00 AM
This self-guided two-day tour showcases fourteen remarkable transformations from local designers, home builders, and design-build professionals—offering an up-close look at the craftsmanship, creativity, and care that go into award-worthy renovations. General Admission ticket is $50.00 and gives you access to the two-day tour. Kids 15 and under are free. The event runs two days, Saturday, September 20th & Sunday, September 21st, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Ticket Info: https://austinnari.org/
SEPTEMBER 24TH
Ezov’s Meze Mash Up
Ezov: 2708 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702 | 5:00 PM
Ezov, the Eastern Mediterranean restaurant from Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, closes out their guest chef Meze Mash Up Series with a one-night-only collaborative dinner with Chef Peter Klein of Holiday. Reservations are available on Opentable. For more information on the series and to stay up-to-date on additional chef announcements, visit www.ezovatx.com or on Instagram at @ezovatx.
Photo by Madeline Harper
3 4
FAVORITE things 5
1. LIVING OAK HOME DECOR
Interior designer Laura Williams, who helms Living Oak Interior Design, opened the curated boutique at 1703 W Koenig Ln (what the team has lovingly dubbed “Austin’s Design Row”) after she saw a hole in the market for sophisticated yet approachable home décor. The cozy store offers items averaging around $30 and champions local, female-founded businesses, with offerings like handmade ceramics from local artist Ali Bond, prints from photographer Madline Harper and art from Aileen Fitzgerald.
2. ZADOK JEWELERS
The seven-generation family-owned and operated business opened their first location in Houston in 1976! Early summer, they brought their curated selection of fine jewelry and concierge-level service to their second location in The Domain, an 11,000 square foot showroom that includes luxury watch boutiques - IWC Schaffhausen, Panerai and TUDOR – as well as Jaeger Le-Coultre and BVLGARI showrooms, the Zadok Vault, Nina Magon Bar, The Bridal Shop, and a dedicated Rolex showroom!
3.
MIRAVAL AUSTIN
This little slice of heaven set in the Texas Hill Country is the perfect place to escape for a day and come back reset and refreshed. Whether a solo retreat or quality time with friends, there’s plenty to do during a day at Mirval. Once you reserve a day pass you can access the activities calendar and start planning a schedule, bookending a spa treatment with a variety of options from floating mediation or yoga to learning about beekeeping, chicken keeping and so much more.
4. MAHJONG
If you think you’ve been hearing a lot more about Mahjong lately – you have! Although its origins date back to 19th century China, its popularity has been growing at a fever pitch. It’s a fantastic way to hang out with friends that doesn’t have to involve going to a bar. But, it can. Pershing House hosts Mahjong every Tuesday and there have been pop-up events at places like Prelude, Lake Austin Spa and Bar Peach. You can book lessons or find intro events via Maj Social Club.
5. ETHAN KING
The co-owner of the Ron King Salon is a master stylist specializing in curly and textured hair, although he can be trusted with any hair type. He left the salon to style this month’s cover shoot, but you can usually find him in the salon’s cute home in East Austin - when he’s not out literally teaching others how it’s done.
Nonprofits fuel the heart of Texas
