Birmingham, MI September 2025 by City Lifestyle

The Style Issue

Style is an extraordinary part of life — it’s far more than the clothes we wear or the accessories we choose.

Style is woven into every detail of our existence, from the way we decorate our homes to the art and music we enjoy, the books we read and even how we interact with the world around us. It's the unique thread that creates the tapestry of who we are.

Part of what makes style so captivating is its deeply personal nature. It evolves alongside us as we explore new interests, embrace our quirks and express what we value most. It’s a language without words, a powerful tool for connection that can bridge differences and spark shared understanding.

Here in Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills, we’re fortunate to have endless opportunities to celebrate and explore style. Whether it’s through visiting local boutiques, supporting creative entrepreneurs or drawing inspiration from local influencers, there’s so much to ignite your creativity and lift your spirit.

This month, I encourage you to think of style as an authentic expression of yourself. The most beautiful style is one that reflects who you truly are — your passions, your story, your individuality. Because no one else in the world can replicate that.

Whether you’re exploring new trends, blending classic elements or creating something entirely original, let this issue inspire you to embrace the power of self-expression.

Here’s to being unapologetically and uniquely you!

ALI KRAMER, PUBLISHER

September 2025

PUBLISHER

Ali Kramer | ali.kramer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lynne Konstantin | lynne.konstantin@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tyler Amadeus, Matsumoto Mari, Susan Thwing

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Aly Darin, Janie Jones, Adrien King, Alec Walworth

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Let’s assemble the WHOLE team from the start! YOUR INVESTMENT DEPENDS ON IT!”

LUXURY WATERFRONT HOMES

By Falcon

As your dedicated owners’ representative, you will be in partnership with a team of highly skilled professionals, unique to your project. I have personally vetted and built a comprehensive network of those who value excellence, team collaboration, and your best interests that include the:

Financial Advisor | Builder | Architect | Landscape Architect

Interior Designer | Luxury Realtor

For Peace of Mind Call Brian Cotant Falcon Custom Homes 269-838-1819, or brian@homesbyfalcon.com

Michigan Waterfront Properties Explore. Build. Enjoy.

inside the issue

The

Celebrating

Pro

city scene

Fifth-Annual Feldman Automotive Children’s Miracle Celebrity Invitational, co-hosted by the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation, June 9, at the Detroit Golf Club. 1: Jay Feldman 2: Braylen, Riely and Gran Watson with Lamont Yoder. 3: Jay Feldman and Donnie Wahlberg, the day’s sponsors. 4: The Wahlberg and Children’s Miracle Network families. 5: Mia Hutchinson sings the National Anthem. 6: Jay Feldman and Mark Wahlberg. 7: Lamont Yoder, Jay Feldman and Donnie Wahlberg.

JOE MAROON

Kudos to Darryl Clements, CEO of InterCapital Funding

Darryl Clements, CEO of InterCapital Funding, is leading a new class of visionaries earning a steady 1-percent monthly with the bank for the unbankable . Under his leadership, InterCapital is transforming Metro Detroit’s overlooked properties into high-value assets through short-term bridge loans, secured by first-lien real estate and underwritten with the diligence others miss. Investors enjoy strong, reliable returns while energizing underserved neighborhoods. Bold returns start here, where smart, flexible capital turns hidden opportunity into lasting community impact. Icfunding.or g.

36th-Annual Birmingham House Tour, Sept. 11

Peek inside a collection of stunning Birmingham and Bloomfield homes on the 36th-Annual Birmingham House Tour on Sept. 11. The selfguided tour allows visitors to explore eight curated homes (like this Dayna Flory Interiors Bloomfield Hills beauty from last year’s tour) as docents provide details into each home. Lunch option available at the Birmingham’s Community House. New this year: a Bubbles & Bites Preview Party Sept. 10 at Birmingham Pointe. Proceeds benefit Project 2 Detroit. Communityhousehelps.org/ fundraisers .

Scan to read more

M A T T H I L D U R

M A R K K E L L E R

Photography by Martin Vecchio

IN THE BAG: Tatianna Merritt

The influencer gives us a peek at what matters most to her — and how she found purpose in the spotlight.

1 Studio Pointe Pilates Socks

2 Selora Sheer Nourishing Hair Oil

3 Kiehl’s Better Screen UV Serum

4 L’Occitane Shimmering Body Oil

The Tox Lymphatic Deodorant

6 Louis Vuitton Attrape-Rèves Perfume

7 The Lip Bar Botanical Lip Oil 8 Versed Brightening Eye Gel

9 Louis Vuitton Sunglasses

10 Jones Road Light Moisture Cream

WHAT’S

TATIANNA MERRITT’S BAG?

ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALY DARIN

NOTES

Photographed on location at Wabeek Country Club, Bloomfield Hills

Hair: Mystique Hair Studio, West Bloomfield Twp.; @MystiqueHairStudio

Makeup: DewyByDej, Royal Oak; @dewybydej

Nails: Nails By Harry, Utica; @nailsbyharry_

Outfit by Dolce Moda, Birmingham

Shoes by Christian Louboutin

Chanel Nylon Travel Tote

Jewelry by Tapper’s Jewelry, West Bloomfield

TATIANNA MERRITT

143K followers

@ttmerritt; tatiannamerritt.com

Bloomfield Hills wife, mom, pastor, content creator, author, encourager and woman of faith. Proudly born and raised in Detroit.

BIRMINGHAM CITY LIFESTYLE Tell me about your family?

TATIANNA MERRITT I’m married to my best friend, Jonathan Merritt, and we have four amazing children: Lillian, Cristina, Andrew II and Alexandria.

BCL What is your background?

TM My love for fashion led me to earn my degree in Fashion Merchandising from Wayne State University. From there, I stepped into television as a commentator and interviewer, and eventually transitioned into modeling. But even in the midst of all those accomplishments, I felt something was missing. That inner search for purpose led me into full-time ministry and content creation, which have become two of the most fulfilling areas of my life.

BCL How did you break into content creation?

TM I started sharing on social media consistently around 2019. It began as a simple outlet to inspire other women with encouragement and faith, but it grew quickly. My goal has always been to show women, especially mothers and wives, that they can live fully in their purpose without losing their sense of identity, style or faith. I never expected it to become what it is today, but I’m grateful for every step.

I’m a woman on a mission to serve God, love my family well and pour into the lives of women who need to know they’re not alone. Pastoring alongside my husband, mentoring women through our Purposeful Her ministry, raising my children and creating content that uplifts and inspires — all of that is a part of who I am. My most important endeavor is being obedient to the calling on my life.

BCL What type of content do you produce?

TM My content covers faith-filled encouragement, devotionals, fashion, beauty, fitness, wellness, marriage and motherhood. I like to call it ‘real-life inspiration.’

I think people connect with me because I’m honest. I’m not trying to be perfect or polished all the time. I talk about the hard days, the faith battles, the mom guilt and the glow-ups. I’ve found that staying true to God and to myself is what sets me apart, and my audience appreciates that.

BCL What does the church mean to you?

TM The church changed my life. My relationship with God gave me the peace, clarity and confidence I never had before. I serve alongside my husband as a pastor at Straight Gate International Church in Detroit, and ministry is at the heart of everything I do. The church isn’t just a building — it’s the community, the calling and the place where I found purpose.

BCL How do you measure the success of your content?

TM For me, success isn’t about likes or followers. It’s the DMs from women who say they were about to give up, but a post reminded them of their worth. It’s when someone reads one of my devotionals and feels seen. And when someone is encouraged to strengthen their relationship with God. That’s impact-and that’s success.

BCL What is your book about?

TM My book, Devotions of Love,is a 31-day-and-night heartfelt collection of prayers and encouragement designed to remind readers of God’s unwavering love. It was birthed out of a season of deep spiritual reflection and surrender. I also offer a collection of Purposeful Her merch that reflects themes of faith, femininity and purpose.

BCL Who have you collaborated with?

TM I’ve been blessed to collaborate with brands like GM, California Closets, Jluxlabel, World Vision, Tappers Jewelry, The Lip Bar and Dolce Moda, among others. I love working with brands that align with my values and speak to my audience.

BCL Anything new coming up?

TM Yes! I’m currently working on my second devotional and expanding Purposeful Her into new formats, including events, retreats and resources that equip women spiritually and emotionally.

BCL Where do you see yourself down the road?

TM In five years, I see myself continuing to grow Purposeful Her into a national platform, publishing more books and speaking at conferences that empower women in ministry and the marketplace. In 10 years, I hope to be mentoring the next generation of women leaders — still walking in purpose, still standing beside my husband and still parenting (probably one will be a college graduate!).

BCL Tell me about a few of your favorite products, brands and shops?

TM Dolce Moda [boutique in Birmingham] is a favorite for chic, elevated looks. I love anything by The Lip Bar [in Detroit] — it’s clean, bold and Black-owned. Also, SKIMS for everyday comfort and Alo Yoga for activewear that doubles as streetwear.

BCL Do you have a mentor or role model?

TM My mother has always been a spiritual anchor for me — her life’s journey has been such a faith-extender for me. I’m constantly inspired by women like Sarah Jakes Roberts and Nicole Crank, women who lead with both faith and influence.

BCL What’s a hidden talent you have that your followers might not know about?

TM I love interior styling and organizing. Give me a cluttered room and I’ll turn it into a peaceful, Pinterest-worthy space.

BCL What are you most excited about in your life right now?

TM I’m most excited about this new season of growth — spiritually, professionally and personally. I feel God stretching me in new ways, and I’m here for it.

If my story can remind even one woman that it’s not too late to pursue her purpose, then everything I’ve walked through has been worth it.

TATIANNA’S TOP 5 FAVE BEAUTY NECESSITIES

1. Tinted moisturizer with SPF, for that glow and protection

2. Brow pencil , because brows frame the face

3. Colored lip gloss, my go-to for a polished look

4. Concealer, for the under-eye lift

5. Lash extensions , because even on no-makeup days, I still want my eyes to pop

BRACES & INVISALIGN® PROVIDER FOR KIDS, TEENS, AND ADULTS

The AAO recommends that kids see an orthodontist by the age of 7 to get a head start on a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles. This spring, your whole family can take steps towards a smile they’ll love to share with:

• Free growth monitoring for children ages 5–10

• Most insurance accepted

• Affordable payment plans, including 0% APR financing

Call today to schedule your FREE virtual or in-person consultation!

King of Cool

Celebrating a half century in the fashion business, style aficionado Mark Keller still reigns supreme in Birmingham with Iceland-designed MATTHILDUR.

ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN

Mark Keller has been predicting the future of fashion for six decades, though he’ll correct you if you call him a trendsetter. “I don’t follow trends,” he says. “I identify what’s next.”

At 75, this “OG” of retail fashion in Birmingham continues to prove that being different isn’t just profitable — it’s prophetic.

The story began in 1961 when a 14-year-old Keller talked his way into a job at Clothes Rak in Oak Park. “I worked for Joe and Eleanor Dorfman,” he says, “who taught me about customer service and how to take care of people” — one of his nuanced abilities that has had loyal customers following him his entire career. Even then, he was the kid who convinced his bosses to stock bell bottoms before anyone knew what they were. It was the first sign of a natural ability to spot cultural shifts before they happened.

After graduating from Wayne State with a teaching degree he’d never use, Keller found his calling managing seven Pant Station stores — owned by Sid Moss — across Michigan.

But his real breakthrough came on Sept. 25, 1975, when he opened Mark Keller on Birmingham’s Maple Road — waiting ’til two days after his birthday because he had tickets to see Bruce Springsteen (who shares Keller’s exact birthday) for his first-ever Michigan show. The timing was perfect: Detroit was starving for something different.

What followed was pure fashion alchemy. Keller became the first to bring Eileen Fisher, Suzen, Ghost, Stussy, Marithe + Francois Girbaud, Hard Candy and more to Detroit, transforming his store into a destination for anyone seeking sartorial salvation. Elton John and Billy Crystal shopped there. Members of Procol Harum, Bob Seger and the Doobie Brothers frequented his stores. A young John Varvatos learned what “cool” meant within those walls.

“When I bought those things for my store, it was different. It was against the grain of mainstream,” Keller says. His network of fellow fashion rebels stretched across the country — including a

To celebrate 50 years as a fashion benchmark — and the customers who’ve helped get him there — Mark Keller is planning anniversary festivities Sept. 26-27. For details, visit @matthildurxmarkkeller;

friend named Dick Hayne, who called to seek Keller’s opinion on a wholesale line that would become Urban Outfitters. Others in his circle launched Lucky Jeans and CP Shades. With his wife, Helaine, running Michigan’s first aerobics studio (Fitnesse, also in Birmingham), they were the undisputed “king and queen” of local cool.

The store was extremely successful, as were its offshoots, West End, Basic Goods, Lilith and Mark Keller 130A (housed in a refurbished horse barn in Downtown Birmingham). In 2000, at a New York trade show, he met three women from Reykjavik who’d just launched ELM Design. “All they made were sweaters,” he says. “I said, ‘I’ll buy some sweaters and see what happens.’”

What happened was magic. Keller convinced them to work with Pima Cotton Jersey in Peru, got them a booth at curated trade show The Coterie in New York, and opened 45 accounts for the new company. “They thought I was a genius,” he says.

For a decade, he traveled to Iceland twice yearly as the collection grew, until the partnership evolved into something more focused: MATTHILDUR, with designer Matthildur Halldorsdottir. “She’s like a sister to me,” he says.

MATTHILDUR combines a casual Japanese aesthetic with easyto-wear, timeless designs in unique fabrications from Peru, like Pima Cotton, Tanguis Cotton and sweaters in Alpaca and Cotton. With an emphasis on “classics with a twist” and listening to the needs of the customer, MATTHILDUR has developed a devoted, artistic international community.

Keller also created M x MATTHILDUR, born out of the need to satisfy the aspirational MATTHILDUR customer with the same brilliant designs at a more comfortable price.

Both collections are housed in his new brick-and-mortar shop on Old Woodward in Birmingham, where Keller continues his mission of making women feel extraordinary. The two divisions serve 100-150 stores, while his secret weapon remains unchanged: an almost mystical understanding of what makes women feel and look confident.

Articulate, thoughtful and passionate — about music, social justice, family (his “greatest accomplishment”) and humanity — with a dry wit that has a way of making people feel fortunate to be in on the joke with him, Keller has an eye for design that is in his DNA.

From the opening of his original Mark Keller, when he brought not just designs but an attitude that was missing from the local landscape, to “fast forward 50 years,” Keller says, “there’s still a need for that woman to wear something that makes her feel special and ‘seen.’

“Matthildur is an alternative to the same old thing. Not by any means radical — everything we do is tasteful and timeless. We use beautiful fabrics and our designs are exceptional,” he says. “Our clothing is not governed by trends, because our customers have great style,” he says. “Our customer is a woman who doesn’t care if she’s wearing tight clothes or loose clothes, as long as they look good on her and she doesn’t look like everyone else.”

Many MATTHILDUR customers have been shopping with Keller for those 50 years, and he gains new customers all the time — not only because of the designs, but also because of his personalized service, something lacking in fashion today.

“I always keep in mind that the woman who is shopping wants the most interesting and best product available — along with impeccable service,” he says. “The shopping experience must be

Building Inspiring

Brick & Masonry Designs

Residential & Commercial

Allow our small, family owned and operated company to transform your home’s appearance and structure.

pleasant and enjoyable, while at the same time, engaging with the customer to learn their wants and needs.”

Keller, whose own style can be described as “vintage Americana with a dose of hippy” (think Double RL, Japanese brand Engineered Garments, old and patched jeans and Supervinyl t-shirts), says that beyond his family, the thing that gives him the most joy is “making women feel and look great,” he says. “There’s nothing better than when a woman comes in and buys clothes and she feels great. It’s even better when they tell me about items they bought years ago and still wear. My customers have confidence in the way we put them together — and they want to present that and be seen that way.

“Everybody wants to be seen, at any age. They are not invisible. If they walk down a street or go out to dinner, somebody’s gonna look and reaffirm how good they look,” Keller says. “That’s the most gratifying part of my business.”

Mark Keller with Matthildur Halldorsdottir.

DRIVEN BY DESIGN

The DIA’s Shelley Selim’s style-fueled curatorial journey.

ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING

Shelley Selim is used to the long game. She’s spent years looking for the perfect coffee table: something functional but arresting, with an “interesting material” that doesn’t overwhelm the room. That kind of deliberate, discerning eye serves her well as the inaugural Mort Harris Curator of Automotive, Industrial

A detail of "Detroit Industry" from the DIA's North Wall mural by Diego Rivera. Gift of Edsel B. Ford.

and Decorative Design at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). It’s a post she’s held since January 2024 — one that feels custom-built for her.

Selim grew up in Washington, D.C., in a family steeped in cultural institutions.

“Both of my parents worked at the Smithsonian,” she says. “So it’s a little bit of the apple falling close to the tree.”

Her interest in design and history found footing in college and later led her to the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, where she earned her master’s in the history of decorative arts and design.

“I was a broke grad student working multiple jobs — research assistant, teaching assistant, part-time museum work,” Selim recalls. “But the museum work really resonated. I loved how research-intensive it was and how it created educational experiences for the public.”

That duality — academic depth paired with public engagement — has defined Selim’s approach ever since. Following roles at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York and the Cranbrook Art Museum in Michigan,

Top: Ben Kroll, Solar Sports concept proposal, 1953, airbrushed ink and gouache on colored paper. Detroit Institute of Arts, Gift of Julie Hyde-Edwards in memory of Robert Edwards, DIA 2022.196. Credit: Courtesy of Tim Thayer

Above: This vase is slated to go on view in the DIA’s reinstallation of its modern and contemporary wing next year. Toshiko Takaezu, Mask Pot, 1962, glazed ceramic. Detroit Institute of Arts, Founders Society Purchase Prize, Michigan Artist-Craftsmen Exhibition, 1962, DIA 62.24. Credit: © Courtesy of the artist

she spent six years at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, shaping one of the nation’s most robust design collections. But when a new, endowment-funded position at the DIA opened in 2023, she came full circle back to Michigan.

The Mort Harris Curatorship, funded by a $5 million gift from the Harris family, was born out of the 2020 “Detroit Style” exhibition and aims to spotlight automotive and industrial design as cultural expression, not just a technical feat. For Selim, who is now building the collection from the ground up, it’s a rare opportunity.

“We’re particularly interested in collecting renderings from Detroit’s automotive designers, especially midcentury onward,” she explains. “These aren’t engineering schematics. They’re conceptual works — beautiful, dynamic pieces of art.”

CONTINUED >

Shelley Selim

A visitor favorite, this Hallstand will be displayed in a new context in the new Modern and Contemporary Wing. Hector Guimard, Hallstand, 1898, mahogany, enamelled lava, bronze, iron, mirror glass, painted tin liner. Detroit Institute of Arts, Gift of Gilbert and Lila Silverman, DIA 2005.48.

Credit: Detroit Institute of Arts

Selim lights up when talking about the hand-drawn works she’s uncovered, especially those rendered on Canson paper with colored pencil and chalk.

“There’s something magical about the texture, the vibrancy,” she says. “They’re incredibly expressive. You’re seeing an idea, a dream of a future vehicle, taking shape.”

Her work at the DIA has also been shaped by formative experiences at Cranbrook.

“Cranbrook was the most influential chapter of my early career,” she says. “It’s such an experimental place, and I had a lot of freedom to curate exhibitions and dig into the intersections of art, craft and design.”

That fluidity between disciplines, between the intellectual and the intuitive, is what drives Selim. But don’t confuse her professional taste for her personal aesthetic.

“They’re completely separate,” she says. “What I admire conceptually in a museum isn’t what I would put in my home.”

At home in downtown Detroit, she prefers clean lines, light colors and a Scandinavian minimalism she honed during early academic research.

Still, that doesn’t mean she doesn’t indulge in the thrill of the hunt.

“I’m an avid eBay and estate-sale person,” she says. “I’ve found some great pieces that way, but I’m still looking for the coffee table.”

Her ideal piece would be sculptural but practical, a showstopper that doesn’t shout.

“It’s harder than it sounds,” she says. “Everyone I know agrees: It’s the hardest piece to get right.”

For Selim, style isn’t about flash — it’s about intention. Whether acquiring a 1930s Detroit-made Art Deco lamp or studying renderings of a futuristic steering wheel, she’s guided by the belief that design shapes how we move through the world.

“Design objects are part of our daily lives. They reflect who we are, how we live and the technology of their time,” she says. “They’re not just things, they’re stories.”

SELIM’S FAVORITE OBJECTS (SO FAR)

Toshiko Takaezu’s “Mask Pot” (1962)

“This spherical ceramic piece is a quiet masterpiece — there’s only this tiny little pinprick opening on the top. So it’s kind of her venturing into sculpture. And it is this incredible cobalt blue color. She has these very expressive brushstrokes that sweep across the surface. It’s just an absolutely beautiful, beautiful object.”

Midcentury Automotive Renderings on Canson Paper

“The renderings are done on Canson paper, which is like a colored paper. They use that color like a ground color, and then they use colored pencils and chalk to render automobiles that way. Those, to me, tend to be the most exciting, dynamic illustrations.”

Patton Products Lamp, Detroit, 1930s

“I recently acquired for the Museum a lamp by a company called Patton Products, which was local, based in Detroit, I believe, on Jefferson in the 1930s. And it’s a really interesting kind of Art Deco and industrial modern lamp.”

Holy Grail: The Elusive Coffee Table

“I’m still searching — I’ll get there one day. I know I will.”

ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIRA MYROSLAVA KRAVETS

Inside personal fashion concierge Merna Makdisi’s style secrets.

LUXE LIFE

MERNA MAKDISI

A Blonde Styling @ablondestyling; @mernamakdisi Shelby Twp.

Merna Makdisi had already earned a degree in Criminal Justice, began a career as a paralegal, then returned to school for a master’s in Cybersecurity before she made an important realization.

The 9-5 was not for her.

So she pivoted and launched A Blonde Styling — a virtual and in-person styling and personal-shopping business specializing in sourcing some of the most sought-after luxury pieces in the world.

“At the core, I’m a Luxury Fashion Concierge and Wardrobe Consultant,” Makdisi says. “But honestly, I wear a lot of hats — and usually a great pair of heels.”

Makdisi tells Birmingham City Lifestyle about her journey to fashion and fulfillment — and spills her style secrets.

Merna Makdisi

BIRMINGHAM CITY LIFESTYLE How did A Blonde Styling start?

MERNA MAKDISI Shortly after starting my Instagram page, I accepted a position at Neiman Marcus at the Somerset Collection as a personal styling assistant, which gave me deeper insight into high-end retail and the luxury client experience. Just three months later, I stepped away to pursue A Blonde Styling full time. What began as a creative outlet has evolved into a global sourcing and personal-styling business built on strong relationships, a curated eye and a commitment to helping clients elevate their personal style with confidence and ease.

BCL When did you become interested in fashion?

MM From a young age, I was involved in modeling and pageantry, which sparked my love for getting dressed up and expressing myself through style. I’ve always believed that fashion is more than just clothing — it’s a source of confidence and identity and tells a story.

While I was an undergrad, I modeled for a local boutique in Birmingham called Lexi Drew, where I worked closely with the owner and my dear friend, Dianna. We styled looks together and curated outfits — a hands-on experience that helped shape my creative eye and deepen my passion for fashion. Dianna played a huge role in inspiring what I do now, and since her passing in 2021, I feel in many ways, I’m carrying a part of her legacy forward through A Blonde Styling.

BCL When did you realize that you could make a career of styling?

MM I always knew I didn’t want to be confined to just one retailer. I never wanted to tell a client ‘no’ or be limited in what I could offer — I wanted the freedom to truly curate without restrictions. I started out organically, sharing looks, sourcing pieces for close friends and offering styling advice purely out of passion.

As demand grew, I realized I could turn what I loved into a full-time business. Eventually The Forbes Company — owner and operator of Somerset Collection — offered me a personal stylist partnership. That opportunity was a game changer. It allowed me to shop across all the stores under the Forbes portfolio, including three malls in Florida, giving me access to exclusive inventory and expanding what I could offer my clients far beyond what’s available locally.

A big misconception is that I work for just one store, but A Blonde Styling is completely independent and allows me to partner and collaborate with a wide range of stores, designers and inventory. From there, A Blonde Styling grew rapidly — and has since secured successful partnerships with leading luxury retailers and brands including Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Moda Operandi, Saint Laurent, Jimmy Choo, Reformation and more.

BCL What does your social media offer to followers?

MM In the beginning, people started following me not just for what I could find, but for how I wore it, styled it and talked about it. It’s never about pushing product. I don’t post anything I wouldn’t personally wear or love myself. It’s about sharing inspiration, showing how fashion fits into real life and connecting with people who truly appreciate style the way I do.

Now, I create fashion-forward content, share styling tips, highlight new arrivals and showcase my personal style — along with the pieces I’m currently obsessing over. Instagram has become more than just a platform for me; it’s where I get to connect with shoppers, trend lovers and fellow fashion girls in a fun, real and stylish way.

BCL What is A Blonde Styling’s goal?

MM To continue building and growing A Blonde Styling so I can serve my clients at the highest level. I never want to tell someone, ‘Sorry, it’s sold out.’ I want to be the one who finds the impossible — the piece they couldn’t track down, the bag that’s waitlisted everywhere or the outfit that makes them feel like them again!

CONTINUED

Jil Sander Wool Crewneck Sweater; Magda Butrym Cropped Cotton-Blend Trench; Khaite Dane Jean; Hermes Vegas Ankle Boot; Hermes Kelly 18 Belt; Prada Bonnie Medium Leather Handbag in Sage

Wardrobe.nyc Double-Breasted Blazer; Prada Embroidered Fil-a-Fil Shirt; Prada Pleated Checked Wool Twill Miniskirt; Prada Suede Slingback Pumps; Miu Miu Wander Matelasse Napp Leather Hobo Bag; Baignoire Watch

It’s about going above and beyond — not just styling, but delivering an experience. As my business grows, so does my access, my network and my ability to say yes to the clients who trust me with their wardrobe.

BCL What is the value of working with a personal stylist?

MM Personal styling and curated shopping experiences have grown tremendously, especially in the last few years. During and after the pandemic, online personal shopping really had its moment — and it hasn’t slowed down since. People began craving a more elevated, personalized approach to shopping — and they wanted someone who could not only style them, but actually source what they couldn’t find on their own. Whether it’s a sold-out piece, a rare designer item or something not available in their local market, I take pride in finding what’s not easily accessible and delivering it in a seamless, stress-free way.

Today, more people understand that personal styling isn’t just for celebrities or red carpets. It’s for busy professionals, new moms, fashion lovers and anyone who wants to feel confident in what they wear. It’s efficient, it’s tailored and it’s an investment in yourself.

BCL How would you describe your personal style?

MM Feminine, elevated and effortless — with a touch of edge when the mood is right. I love mixing high and low, timeless and trendy, and I’m always drawn to clean lines, quality fabrics and pieces that feel both luxurious and wearable.

My styling philosophy is all about balance. I don’t believe in forcing trends — I believe in choosing what flatters you, fits your lifestyle, and makes you feel like your most confident self. Style should feel natural, not overdone. And it’s never about the price — it’s about the selection. You can wear something affordable and make it look high-end if the styling is right.

BCL What do you love about doing what you do?

MM I genuinely never feel like I’m working. Whether I’m curating outfits, sourcing a hard-to-find piece or creating content, these are all things I truly enjoy. It’s the perfect mix of creativity, fashion and connection. Every day, I get to build and nurture relationships — with clients, with brands and with those who trust me with their style. This business has pushed me, inspired me and connected me with the most amazing people.

FALL TRENDS, FAVE DESIGNERS

AND SOURCED PIECES

• Standout pieces I’ve sourced recently: the Chanel Shopping bag — often referred to as the ‘Kelly’ bag — especially in metallic gold is both timeless and bold, and it has a way of instantly completing any look. The Miu Miu rainbow crochet pouch was a summer favorite — playful, vibrant and full of personality. And this year, Chanel’s flip-flops have had a major moment, proving that even the simplest silhouettes can feel elevated and luxurious when styled right.

• Favorite designers: Chanel and Hermès will always have a special place in my heart — their craftsmanship, heritage and timeless elegance. I also love brands like Prada and Khaite — they bring a modern edge and elevated simplicity that speaks to the way women want to dress today: confident, clean and effortlessly chic.

• Accessories: From metallic golds and silvers to sculptural clutches and chunky belts , it’s about adding impact through small but intentional details. Romantic touches like lace, corset seams, and delicate trims continue to soften and elevate structured silhouettes — bringing in just the right amount of femininity.

• Colors: rich jewel tones paired with luxurious neutrals — think emerald and plum, styled with ivory, taupe and chocolate brown Wine red is definitely here to stay. This season, it’s more than just a pop of color — it’s being treated as a true wardrobe staple, showing up in everything from outerwear to accessories.

• Tailoring: oversized blazers, boxy coats, wide-leg trousers and clean midi skirts are all making bold yet wearable statements. And I’m especially drawn to the textures we’re seeing — plush shearling, structured faux fur, croc-embossed leather — it’s luxe, dimensional and effortless.

• Layering with intention — investing in timeless staples, playing with rich textures, and letting your personal style speak for itself. That’s the beauty of fashion: when it’s done right, it tells your story without you saying a word.

Whether you’re looking for a construction mortgage or a vacant lot loan, you can count on us for competitive products and trusted support. Choose from fixed or adjustable rate options. Plus, get financing that includes your construction and permanent loans all in

Financing for renovations or expansion projects

Interest only payments during the construction of your home

Construction periods up to 24 months

| info@banyaspace.com

Eyelash Extensions

Powder Brows Tattoo

Makeup Made Easy

ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN

REGINA PIPIA

Beauty Therapist of Makeup Birmingham reginapipia@icloud.com

“Makeup should be simple — it should only enhance your beauty and give you a great polished look.”

Like many girls, Regina Pipia started to become interested in makeup after graduating high school. Unlike others, she was serious about it.

Her first real job was working in the cosmetics department at Henri Bendel in New York City. “I fell in love with brands from all over the world, that I couldn’t even pronounce,” she says. “Now I correct other people when they pronounce names wrong!”

Pipia is a self-taught makeup artist — “I call myself a Beauty Therapist of Makeup,” she says — honing and heightening her skills at a makeup academy for special effect in California. While attending school, she worked at Barneys in Beverly Hills — that’s when her passion for makeup and beauty products really became focused.

Returning home to Michigan, Pipia was a much-sought-after makeup artist for more than 20 years at the now-shuttered Ruby’s Balm, a beauty boutique in West Bloomfield.

“I had a range of clients,” she says, “from 13-year-olds to sophisticated women who wanted to feel good about themselves, even if they were just buying a lipstick.

“I love working with women, not against women,” Pipia says. Case in point: Her philosophy is that every woman should do her makeup and invest in herself to whatever degree makes her comfortable. “I like to compare it to clothing — if you are comfortable with a t-shirt and jeans during the day, you can simplify your makeup routine while making a huge difference by using a simple tinted moisturizer and blush,” she says. “But I will never say no to helping someone with glam makeup! I really do love all kinds of makeup, and don’t discriminate. I can spend hours at Target, Sephora, Ulta — you name it. And I personally love the art of sitting down to get ready for a night out and putting on makeup. There’s something about it that is soothing to me.”

Regina Pipia.

Photo by Dianne Scafone

Here, Pipia gives us her pro perspective on the basics — with a cherry on top — plus her current favorite product picks.

1 “I like to simplify skin care and makeup. I’m not a skincare expert, but I do know what works. No matter what time of year it is, I always use a vitamin C serum. My two favorite companies are SkinCeuticals (I use their C E Ferulic serum, which lightens lines, firms skin and brightens your complexion) and Posay (I like their Vitamin C12 Serum). As long as you have a good moisturizer and a sunscreen over it that is pretty much all you need in the morning, in my opinion.”

3 “If you are intimidated by brushes, the best investment you can make is a starter kit of the Morphie brushes, like the Best of Blends 8-Piece Face & Eye Brush Set. They’ve come a long way and they are so affordable. To be honest, I think they work better than most high-end brushes.”

4 “I love all kinds of foundations, but my favorite for yearround is the Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation, a medi um-coverage clean foundation infused with proprietary fer mented arnica that helps reduce redness and helps even skin tone. If I want to thin it out, I’ll use a hyaluronic-acid serum which gives a great glow and moisture boost, especially for in-between summer and fall. I like to use the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum on my clients.

Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre multi-function moisturizer as a moisturizer, a cleanser or a beauty mask — or just anything to smooth the canvas on which to apply your makeup. La Roche-Posay Toleriane is a great moisturizer with SPF 30 and also provides hydration. It’s a light non-greasy lotion, great for all textures and skin types.”

If you find a great concealer, sometimes you don’t even need foundation. Currently, I’m really into Natasha Denona’s Hy-Glam Concealer. It’s a great concealer that can be used all over the face and can pretty much cover everything.”

5 “Eyeshadows. I love the Makeup

By Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow

Palette: The Neutrals — it’s a staple. They are matte shadows, but you can always add a bit of shimmer: I like to use the Patrick Ta Beauty Major Dimension Eye Illusion Eyeshadow Duos for a little pop.”

8 “To set your makeup

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder. Depending on your skin type, the Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray go-to and so is the Melt Glass Setting Spray ier side, One/Size also makes a matte setting spray.”

6 “I love working with creams for blush, especially as our skin gets dry and the weather changes. It’s really easy to use and you can always throw a little bit of color on your lips as well. My favorite go-to is the Natasha Denona Hy-Blush Cloudy Cream Cheek Duo — it comes with a shimmer cream and a matte cream, with lots of colors to choose from.”

7 “I also love a good bronzer, which can also be used as blush or just an all-around pick me up to give yourself a little bit of color. The best bronzer that is a cult favorite is the Nars Laguna Hourglass Ambient

, you gotta go with what’s comfortable. Charlotte , that are soft and buttery — you get two complementary colors in lip pencil NYX Lip Lingerie XXL Matte Liquid Lipstick, which stays on really well. And if you like gloss, right now, I’m really into Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment — it’s hydrating, has peptides in it and works great as a gloss.”

Left to Right: Jason M Geisz, Elizabeth M Silver, R Adam Biswanger, Suzanne Minster, Robert F Alati, Robyn R Crewdson

LIVING STYLE in

THE INTERSECTION OF FASHION AND HOME

ARTICLE BY TYLER AMADEUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADRIEN KING AND ALEC WALWORTH

INthis unexpected love affair, fashion and interiors are more than just a simple pairing—they are rooted in culture, creativity, and the human desire for self-expression.

As conscious consumers of the 21st century, participating in a retail landscape that is oversaturated and struggling to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the modern customer, our purchasing power should not only respond to a feeling of want but also prioritize items that reflect who we

are and who we aspire to be. This is clearly visible through the representation of fashion and interiors.

Although we tend to consider cost-per-wear primarily when it comes to clothing, this same principle applies to furniture and the function it brings to the home. Aesthetics and functionality both play a role in this pairing, painting a picture for the rest of the world of who the wearer is and how they live in their space.

The woman who wears a blazer with sharp shoulders that CONTINUED >

“JUSTASWECAREFULLYCHOOSEOUTFITS TO EXPRESS OURSELVES,IT

’SEQUALLYIMPORTANT

TOENSURETHATOURLIVINGSPACES

ARE DESIGNEDWITHTHESAMEINTENTION. ”

makes her feel powerful in her everyday life—or the black dress that gives her a necessary boost of confidence—may naturally gravitate toward sleek, modern furniture that feels equally strong and elevates the space where the modern woman thrives.

In the same way, someone who prefers an effortless ensemble—like their favorite white T-shirt and comfortable denim jeans—may also look for home pieces that are functional and make their guests feel at ease. Even a handmade rug, one that sparks conversation about where it was found and adds a focal point to a room, mirrors how we search our closets for a sweater tied to a cherished memory.

Just as we carefully choose outfits to express ourselves, it’s equally important to ensure that our living spaces are designed with the same intention. More than ever, modern buyers are making purchasing decisions based on personal morals and values, forming a new wave of consumers who seek products that are both high-quality and environmentally or socially conscious, whether for themselves or their homes.

The following imagery affirms that living a timeless lifestyle across all aspects of life is possible through the thoughtful styling of sustainable clothing and vintage furniture. As the modern retail landscape continues to evolve, it’s become increasingly vital to make conscious consumer choices—ones that allow us to express our truest selves through both our wardrobes and the places we call home.

Shoot Credits

ART DIRECTION

Amy Appleton

STYLING

Tyler Amadeus

MODELS

Amy Appleton and Elena Weber

Gregory Varjabedian, DO Otolaryngology

David Seel, DO Otolaryngology Facial Plastic Surgery

oTolary N gic a llE rgy

Facial Plas T ic s urg E ry

Voic E Th E ra P y

For over 30 years, patients in Novi, Brighton, and Bingham Farms have trusted ENT Specialists of Michigan for expert care in ear, nose, and throat health. Our dedicated team of physicians has earned that trust by delivering compassionate, honest, and personalized care that makes a real difference in our patients’ lives. Known for our commitment to quality, comfort, and long-lasting results, ENT Specialists continues to set the standard for exceptional ENT care throughout Michigan.

Matthew Farrugia, DO Otolaryngology Neurotology

Shant Korkigian, DO Otolaryngology Head & Neck Oncologic Surgery

Ricky Sayal,

LASER RESURFACING

I love family-style meals such as a crab boil this time of year. The food is the star of the show and a vital part of the tablescape – decor optional! Additional elements included here are a large paper-sail, light blue taper candles, a few large flowers, and heavy white rope as nautical accents. You can also use other elements such as large seashells, coral or seaglass. Use whatever you have on hand that nods to the sea.

SUMMER END of CRAB BOIL

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Fill a large stock pot halfway with cold water. Season with lemon peels, bay leaves, black pepper, red pepper flakes, Old Bay Seasoning, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil and add crab legs, sausage, potatoes, and corn until cooked. Strain water and serve on a large galvanized tray, newspaper or parchment paper – enjoy your meal with guests, family style!

Give each guest a bowl of garlic butter for dipping as well as lemons for squeezing (wrapped in cheesecloth and tied with twine to avoid seeds).

Include special beverages and desserts such as a tiered lemon cake or frozen treat to beat the heat.

For full instructions visit the blog at silvertoothhome.com/blog/crabboil . Enjoy!

CRAB BOIL MENU

Ali turned a magazine into community.

City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?

Birmingham City Lifestyle

Published by Ali

Loved by Birmingham

A VICTORIAN LEGACY

ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN

We love fall in Michigan — crisp air, a riot of colorful leaves and oh-so-many spots to take it all in. But September in Michigan — who knows what weather we’re in for. If you’re lucky, you might even squeeze in one last summer-weather weekend family getaway.

Either way, the Island House Hotel (theislandhouse.com) on Mackinac Island checks all of our boxes. The bustle of Main Street on the island has its pros and cons — the pros, of course, being plenty of activities, history, shopping, restaurants, fudge and picturesque views. And after a day amid the busyness, it feels like pure luxury to tuck in at the Island House, even if it’s for a quick respite before revitalizing for dinner.

Mackinac Island exudes elegance and nostalgia, and the Island House delivers that and more, as a destination in itself. With magnificent views of Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge, graceful Victorian architecture and family-owned eagerto-please intimacy, the Island House oozes historic mellow charm, while massive renovations provide blissful modern comfort. Perfectly positioned on Main Street,

Grab lunch in the Ice House BBQ garden, paying homage to Mackinac Island’s oldest ice house.

the Island House offers the ideal balance — close enough to be in the heart of the action, yet removed just enough to provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling energy below, with just the occasional clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages in the distance.

The Island House has humble beginnings, but the simple beach house hotel, built in 1852, now holds nearly two centuries of Great Lakes history. Purchased by a skipper in 1865, who relocated the entire structure 300 feet inland from the shoreline, the Island House was positioned for massive growth: In 1875, Mackinac Island became the nation’s second National Park and along with it, a hospitality boom was born. The skipper’s daughter transformed the property into a grand Gilded Age resort, adding wings on either side that now define the hotel’s architecture.

Following a period of disrepair, the hotel was saved from demolition by Harry Ryba — founder of Ryba’s Fudge Shop (arguably the best fudge around) — and his son-in-law, Victor Callewaert. The pair reopened Island House in 1972 after three years of renovations, with every intricate detail, from the majestic columns and ornate porch spindles to the elegant gables, windows and door styles, painstakingly preserved. Still owned by the Callewaert family, the hotel today is both a Michigan Historic Landmark and included in the Historic Hotels of America. The Island House is Mackinac Island’s oldest continuously operating hotel — preserved in time in a place where motor vehicles have been banned since 1901.

In 2019, in celebration of 50 years under the Ryba-Callewaert family, a multi-million dollar renovation again breathed new life into the hotel, while maintaining its historic charm, offering 94 guest rooms and suites, two restaurants, a pool, an outdoor deck hot tub, curbside bike rentals and more. Whether sightseeing around the island or relaxing in a rocking chair on the Island House’s expansive porch, watching sailboats glide into the harbor and making s’mores at the front lawn fire pit, Island House Hotel offers an authentic Mackinac Island experience.

CONTINUED >