Canton, OH September 2023

Our Homes, Our Sanctuaries

It is with immense pleasure that I welcome you to September’s special interior style-themed issue. At its heart, the home is more than just a place; it’s a personal sanctuary where we seek comfort and solace. This edition is dedicated to exploring the vibrant possibilities of interior style that can transform our homes into individualized havens reflecting who we truly are.

In the following pages, you will discover a wealth of ideas, from minor tweaks to significant remodels, to help curate a home that not only looks beautiful but feels intimately yours. We have traveled across the community to bring you inspiring stories of local businesses that are making waves in the world of interior design and architecture, each offering a unique perspective and skill set to help you realize your vision.

In essence, this issue is not just about building a visually appealing home — it’s about creating spaces that reflect you, your values, your tastes, and the things you hold dear. A home, after all, is not merely a dwelling. It’s a testament to your life and the people in it.

Remember, home design is an evolution, not an overnight change. Enjoy the journey, for it is as rewarding as the destination. I hope the stories and resources in this issue inspire and guide you as you embark on your own journey to create your perfect sanctuary.

Happy reading!

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Brian Bailey | brian.bailey@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Rachel Hagenbaugh rachel.hagenbaugh@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Julie Mertes | julie.mertes@citylifestyle.com

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

BRIAN BAILEY, PUBLISHER @CANTONLIFESTYLE

Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

in your communitybecause you matter.

Aultman is proud to be the area’s first and only independent health system. We are one team, joined together and committed to one mission — to lead our community to improved health.

And we’ve always been here, dedicated to providing YOU with the very best in care, wellness, education, insurance, and more.

For your community, for your family … we are always here for you.

Ready for an Interior Refresh?

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN KARIPIDES & RYLIE FULINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Lean in and listen to what moves you. Is it bold colors, a mesmerizing light fixture, a stylish and comfy couch or functional decor that keeps you organized? Regardless of your individual style and needs, Anew Room and JK Design offer a one-stop destination to discover everything you need to recreate your living spaces.

It began in 2016 when Ruthanne Wilkof, a local real estate agent, discovered a growing need in the community. While some people were looking for beautiful, yet affordable, high-end furniture to fill their homes, others who were downsizing, remodeling or redecorating didn’t know what to do with their gorgeous, nearly new items they no longer needed. Her solution was Anew Room, a quality consignment store specializing in furniture, accessories, art and more.

“There’s nothing else here like us – nothing of the quality that we carry, the line of products we carry, or the staging of our products,” Ruthanne says of Anew Room, which offers a

variety of styles and statement pieces at a fraction of what they would cost new.

“We are a destination for designer consigned items, and we try to get as many cool and interesting pieces as we can,” says Sam Messerly, who manages the store.

Most of all, what visitors can expect from Anew Room is a truly one-of-a-kind experience and pieces you aren’t likely to find anywhere else.

“I am so proud of the uniqueness of Anew Room,” Ruthanne says. “We do not know what’s coming through the door, so the store never looks the same – it keeps on changing.”

To further serve the needs of those looking for stylish, high-end designs, Ruthanne enlisted the talents of Josette Kark, owner of JK Design, which occupies about 1,200 square feet of space next to Anew Room with brand new, high-end furniture.

Now, the destination is a one-stop shop for consigned and new furniture, as well as design services.

“Interior design is more than fabric or paint colors, it’s a statement of who you are and your lifestyle,” Josette says. “You want to be current with style, but practicality is very important."

FURNITURE FIRST

Whether you’re building or remodeling, deciding how to decorate your home can be a daunting task. To start, Josette suggests beginning with a grounding piece, such as a roomy sofa and accompanying table, along with a set of chairs.

“Start with your bigger pieces, and then add the end tables, a sideboard, rug, lighting and artwork,” Josette says, adding that today’s high performance chenille fabrics are water-soluble and easy to clean. Josette suggests going for a neutral-colored fabric, preferring creams. “You can use Dove soap or any water-based cleaner to wipe off even paw prints or chocolate.”

JK Design

JK Design JK Design

Ruthanne Wilkof and Sam Messerly, Anew Room

Anew Room

"A NICE PIECE OF ART OR A BEAUTIFUL ACCESSORY CAN COMPLETELY CHANGE A ROOM." — SAM MESSERLY, ANEW ROOM

For those with active families, Josette recommends avoiding leather furniture, which scratches easily. However, if leather is the preference, motion pieces like sleek reclining chairs are a great way to introduce it. And forget your grandpa’s old Barcalounger. “These are highstyle motion chairs, some with Lucite on the sides that offer comfort,” she says.

When selecting furniture, there’s nothing more frustrating than falling in love with a particular piece only to find out that there’s a waiting list, and you may not receive it for several months. That’s one of the reasons Sam says a visit to Anew Room is a must for those looking to decorate or redesign their spaces. Not only can you find high-end designer pieces that may otherwise be out of your price range, but there’s no wait time.

LIGHT IT UP

“Lighting is very important,” Josette says, noting that she sees a lot of polished nickel, chrome and “gold is coming back.” Don’t confuse today’s golds with the brassy, shiny fixtures of late. “This is more of a French gold, and it’s really taking off.”

Style-wise, light fixtures are contemporary, incorporating lots of glass. Josette notes that fixtures that hang from cables adjusted to different heights offer visual interest and the benefit of dispersing light.

She advises light fixtures that are at least 3,000 lumens, which is “safe, nice and warm without being too yellow.”

SET THE TABLE

A cocktail table becomes a conversation centerpiece when properly accessorized. “I aim to

keep everything low on the table so you can see beyond it,” Josette says.

Try starting with a stunning tray, such as one of black Lucite as a base. Then add a pair of jars centered with a low-lying bowl. Boxes are also big now. “These are oblong and you can store your T.V. remotes in them. They lift up and are attached to each other at one end so you can stay organized,” Josette describes. “And I always encourage architectural books, no matter the topic. Or, if you’re into wines or you travel, whatever the adventures are, those books need to be on the cocktail table.”

QUICK ROOM CHANGERS

Need a quick and cost-effective change for the interior? Throw pillows are a go-to. “You can change the whole look and feel of the room this way,” Josette says.

Same goes for artwork, which is a “testimony of your style.”

Always add a touch of greenery for texture. “These are not the pieces we used in the 1990s,” Josette clarifies. “It could be one flower with some great gold stems coming out from behind it. You need some softness.”

At Anew Room, unique finds that speak to hobbies and inspire wonder abound. Here, uncover a number of special treasures to spice up your space, from oversized baskets, antique chests, designer bowls, conversation piece paintings and more.

“A nice piece of art or a beautiful accessory can completely change a room,” Sam points out.

Looking for more inspiration for your next interior design transformation? Visit ANewRoom4u. com or JosetteKarkDesign.com or meet Sam or Josette at 5158 Whipple Ave. NW in Canton.

Sparks of Inspiration

Lightshine Design Highlights Ways to Transform Kitchens and Bathrooms into Beautifully Designed Spaces

ARTICLE BY JACQUIE MAZZIOTTA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYLIE FULINE PHOTOGRAPHY

In the dynamic world of interior design, transforming a house into a home requires more than just selecting furniture and choosing paint colors. Homeowners seeking to elevate their living spaces to new heights of beauty, functionality and personalization are increasingly turning to a powerful ally – the interior designer.

Last year, Americans spent an estimated $418 billion in the third quarter alone on home remodeling, according to Statista. It’s no surprise that kitchen and bath makeovers top the list of priorities, as the return on investment (ROI) often adds resale value to a home.

“Kitchens and baths are the hubs of the home. They are necessities of living, and if remodels are done well, they can give you the highest ROI when selling. They can also create a sanctuary for you to enjoy for years, even decades, while occupying your home,” says Sarah Linerode, interior designer at Lightshine Design in Massillon.

The average cost of a simple kitchen renovation with the existing footprint averages $35,000 to $40,000, she explains. However, high-end, large-scale renovations that include a total overhaul can reach up to $125,000.

Opening up spaces and adding an island or peninsula can transform the area into a family gathering spot. For those looking to maximize other spaces, consider growning trends that include basement bars and gathering areas.

Regardless of budget or project scope, an interior designer can accomplish a lot with a kitchen remodel, making cabinets a major focus. If a kitchen has quality cabinets that look good, sometimes it is more economical to install new countertops with a backsplash and paint. Colors, finishes and designs are often updated. Incorporating stains with paints can be an alternative to painting natural wood. An increase in lighter stains on cabinets is common.

“My expertise is in project management of custom designs and coordination and design details.

For example, if people see an image of something they like in a custom kitchen like custom speakers, a paper towel holder hidden in the cabinet, etc., I bring that to life. The most interesting project I did was a custom over-the-range hood with a television hidden inside. I had to figure out how to hide the television and make it functional for cooking. We ended up working with the contractor to make it work. We push the envelope and help people figure out how to make their dreams become a reality,” Sarah says.

Customers often seek assistance from interior designers in selecting popular fabrics, colors and other beautification ideas for their projects. Pinks and greens are trending colors for cabinetry, and various hues of green, including hunter and olive, are making a comeback. Soft whites and warmer tones are also popular now. Preferences indicate popularity is waning from whites and grays.

If the bathroom requires more attention, the average price tag for a main bath renovation begins at $15,000. Depending on size and scope of a master bath renovation, the price tag can start at $20,000 and go up to $50,000 and higher. The size and materials combined with reworking the layout will be a factor in determining cost.

“Interior designers ask the questions most customers don’t think to ask or aren’t aware of,” explains Sarah, who has spent the last decade working with homeowners on design. “We think through details of coordination, electrical and plumbing needs and timeline, as well as creating a balanced design of function and aesthetic using various techniques.”

If you’re looking to create an atmosphere for lounging or socializing, talk to the design team up front. Ask questions and request to see a portfolio of work. Check references and trust your intuition to determine if the partnership is a good fit for your needs and lifestyle.

"Kitchens and baths are the hubs of the home. They are necessities of living, and if remodels are done well, they can give you the highest ROI when selling. They can also create a sanctuary for you to enjoy for years, even decades, while occupying your home."

— Sarah Linerode, Lightshine Design

Equally important is having a scope and vision of the project. Designers will help navigate to ensure the end result.

Melanie

Jacoby, owner of Lightshine Design, opened the showroom a couple years ago. She and her entire team can be the conduit to adhering to project timelines, serving as an intermediary between homeowners and builders while offering solutions that reflect the scope of the homeowners’ wishes. Whether a remodel focuses on incorporating

timeless features or sustainability and eco-friendliness, clearly stating expectations up front is paramount. Designers can incorporate natural materials and energy-efficient appliances.

Melanie and Sarah are available by appointment at the showroom at Lightshine Design, located at 2137 Wales Ave. NW, Unit 1, in Massillon. For more information, visit LightshineDesign.net

LEARN MORE: When starting a home remodeling project, plan appliances first. They dictate the cabinet layout. Also consider cabinet accessories, such as wooden pull-out trays or utensil holders that maximize counter space. Good lighting, including under-cabinet lighting, recessed can lights and pendants over islands, is important. Finally, don’t get carried away by trends. Choose what you love. Many people will explore several options, but tend to revert back to their first selections.

“We think through details of coordination, electrical and plumbing needs and timeline, as well as creating a balanced design of function and aesthetic using various techniques.”

HAVE

e sell aquatic plants, decorative fish, and hard goods for ponds of all sizes. Stop in or call us at 234-209-9675.

We sell aquatic plants, decorative fish, and hard goods for ponds of all sizes. Stop in or call us at 234-209-9675.

Mon-Fri 10am- 5p m, Sat 10am-4pm 9 32 S Ma in St, N Canton, OH 44720

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYLIE FULINE PHOTOGRAPHY

in style YOUR HOME —

Does your home really work for you? From a functional perspective and a design mindset, well-planned remodeling projects can completely change the way you live, relax, gather and enjoy time at home. Luckily, Canton is chock-full of industry experts with many years of experience transforming dull interiors into stylish, yet functional spaces that are long-lasting and on trend.

RENO ROI – SP REMODELING

For years, Josh Petite and Brandon Spring invested in homes and renovated them to sell throughout the greater Canton area. After their portfolio exceeded the triple digits, the business partners transferred skills they acquired flipping houses to reimagining spaces for existing homeowners.

“We just wanted to try to change the industry,” Josh says, relating that they struggled to find dependable contractors and ended up doing all the work themselves, with the help of a troupe of trusted vendors and craftspeople.

When selecting a contractor, “You want to feel good about having them in your home,” Josh says. “You want a professional to walk you through the process.”

This philosophy informs the home renovation journey clients experience with SP Remodeling. It’s a consultative approach with frequent checkins to ensure the team is meeting expectations – a real differentiator in the marketplace, Brandon points out. Basically, they can provide peace of mind when customers wonder, “Will I get what I want at the end of the day?” The answer is yes.

“We have something we call the SP Guarantee, and after we get started, we have different inspection points at each phase in the process,” Josh says. “Homeowners can give us their feedback, and if there are any changes, we make it right before moving on to the next steps.”

Another important factor to consider when partnering with a contractor: Who will actually do the work? With SP Remodeling, clients meet with Josh and Brandon, and they’re on the scene from start to finish with trusted contractors they’ve worked with since opening the business.

SP Remodeling focuses heavily on bathroom and kitchen projects, which are in demand. Mostly, clients prefer a timeless look in the bathroom that’s equally luxurious – a spa feel. “You see trends change, but you don’t want to spend on a new bathroom that will be in style for a couple of years and then it’s out,” Josh says.

Large-format white tiles are classic and easy to clean with fewer grout lines. Zero-entry showers offer a seamless look that’s safe, too. White and gray neutrals still dominate. And smart technology like Bluetooth vent fans that can be controlled via smartphone are appealing. So is programmable, heated tile floors.

As for surfaces, quartz is convenient, classy and low maintenance for bathrooms and kitchens, another focal point for home renovations.

While Josh and Brandon are seeing a move toward earth tones in the kitchen and beyond, white cabinets still reign supreme. Though, some are opting for dual-colored cabinets, such as darker neutral gray lowers and lighter uppers.

CONTINUED >

design can improve everyday life at home."

Wonder how you can get the most return on investment out of your home reno spend? Josh and Brandon advise not going overboard, but definitely refreshing your interior’s look. Go for updates, not extravagance – that is, unless you simply want what you want, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

“A simple summary is ‘new’ is what will make your house worth more,” Brandon says, speaking from their experience on the resale side of the equation. “New flooring, new paint, new toilet, new light fixtures, new kitchen. It doesn’t have to be expensive, it just has to be new.”

LIVING EASY – INFINITY HOMES & REMODELING

After 20 years in the remodeling field, Brian St. Jean can attest to the cyclical nature of design and materials trends. Case in point: gold is back, but with a different aesthetic than yesteryear’s brass – a muted champagne look.

Warmer woods are also back on the scene, and color palettes incorporating greens and blues, says the owner of Infinity Homes & Remodeling. Whatever a client chooses, the sustaining “trend” is to suit a design to the household’s lifestyle.

“Home remodeling is one of the things you do in your life where you get to see the process unfold,” Brian says. “When you buy a new car, you don’t get to see it get manufactured in the factory. You only see the finished project on the lot.”

For this reason, going into the renovation process with clear expectations is important for a successful outcome. “You need to have a level of comfort with your contractor because it’s like a marriage,” Brian says. “You need to be up front about budget, what you like and don’t like, and communicate that. Both parties need to be transparent.”

When this is the case, amazing transformations are possible.

Often, the journey begins with inspo pictures from sites like Houzz or Pinterest. “We love when clients create boards to show their preferences and color choices because we can get a feel for their vision,” Brian says.

Vision ties in with budget, of course.

But just because a client has top-shelf taste and a practical spending number in mind doesn’t mean their ideas are “vision impossible.” It’s all about prioritization and smart swaps. For example, a client called in for a kitchen addition to enlarge the space. The numbers didn’t line up for the initial scope. “Instead, we knocked out a wall and reconfigured the area to give her what she wanted and needed,” Brian explains.

The beauty of the renovation process is its creativity and problem-solving nature.

And the ultimate reward is when clients share how their renovated space makes home sweeter. Brian shares, “A few years ago, I was sitting at Thanksgiving dinner with my family and I got a text from a customer with his family saying, ‘Thank you for making our vision a reality.’ We had created three different designs for them, and they chose the one that worked best for them.”

Back to the design-for-lifestyle approach, Brian says “Good design can improve everyday life at home.”

KITCHEN & BATH APPEAL – CABINETS2COUNTERTOPS

It’s plug and play at Cabinets2Countertops. Backsplash tile? Check. Surfaces from quartz to granite and high performance laminate? Done. Custom cabinets and stock cabinetry from reputable manufacturers? You got it, and the designer/installer produces cabinets on site within its 5,000 square-foot facility that includes an expansive showroom. There’s value in getting to see, touch and try out products.

"Good

— BRIAN ST. JEAN, INFINITY HOMES & REMODELING

Infinity Homes & Remodeling

Infinity Homes & Remodeling

Kurt Bonk founded the company’s predecessor in 2002, and he brings deep knowledge of hard surfaces to the market, with certification from the International Solid Surface Association in Henderson, Nevada.

Education is the core of making wise materials and cabinetry selections, and Kurt takes pride in guiding clients through the process. With the range of innovative products on the market, there are more options than ever before. For instance, the gold-flecked laminate we know from grandma’s house is long gone. “The new Formica laminates are stunning and look like natural stone, plus they can be undermounted to sinks, which is a great way to achieve a luxury look on a budget,” he says.

As for surfaces, quartz is the leader. “It has made great strides in looking realistic and natural,” Kurt says, pointing to the white with gray marbling pattern as a popular and timeless pick.

Custom cabinetry that offers roomy storage for pots and pans can include organizing features. “We’re typically seeing taller cabinets,” Kurt adds, pointing to stacked cabinets featuring top glass doors for displays.

Plus, Cabinets2Countertops creates custom wood hoods that add character to kitchen spaces, Kurt adds. “We are starting to see more of that because not everyone wants a microwave over the stove. The hood adds a custom feel.”

In the bathroom, Kurt sees a move toward building cabinets into the vanity space on top of counters. “You can use those for storage, and there are cool pull-outs available. One has an outlet in it so you can plug in your hair dryer and there’s a built-in holder for it.” Mixing and matching hardware and pulls gives clients flexibility and adds visual appeal. “We see a lot of black hardware, especially on white or gray painted cabinets,” he says. “We also have people who choose knobs for upper cabinets and pulls for lowers. There’s a lot going on in the hardware market.”

For more information, connect with our experts at SP Remodeling (SPRemodelingllc.com), Infinity Homes & Remodeling (InfinityHomesRemodeling.com) or Cabinets2Countertops (Cabinets2Countertops.com).

REMODELING & REAL ESTATE

CUTLER REAL ESTATE AND DEHOFF REALTORS OFFER TIPS TO MAXIMIZING YOUR RETURN ON INVESTMENT

ARTICLE BY JACQUIE MAZZIOTTA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Updates to a home can improve resale value and result in a significant return on investment (ROI). However, what is profitable in one area may not carry the same value elsewhere. Understanding potential buyers, the local market and consulting with a real estate agent are the keys to getting what you want now, as well as the best price later.

“In a competitive real estate market, small updates like painting and carpet replacement can give your home an edge over similar properties in the area,” explains Nancy Platek, real estate agent at Cutler Real Estate.

Strategic planning can help homeowners get the best price for their dwelling.

“Painting a neutral color throughout allows buyers to envision their belongings in the home,” says Meredith Bailey, real estate agent with Cutler Real Estate. “If a home has carpet, we recommend having it cleaned prior to a showing. A clean home makes a huge difference.”

Kitchens and bathroom remodels are generally known to deliver higher returns. Investing in HVAC and energy-efficient windows can attract ecofriendly buyers and reduce future energy costs. Also, updating outdoor living spaces, like adding a new deck or patio, adds value and curb appeal.

“When my clients talk about renovating, I suggest leaving a bathtub in the owner’s suite, even if it’s just one in the home for resale. Freestanding bathtubs are the trend, and there are numerous styles to choose from that look beautiful,” explains Ruthanne Wilkof, real estate agent with DeHoff Realtors.

However, some projects may not be cost-effective. Avoid high-end luxury improvements that can potentially drive home prices up. Highly personalized options may not have broad appeal. Elaborate landscape designs can be time-consuming and expensive, and potential buyers may not see the value. Swimming pools can be considered a liability.

MEREDITH BAILEY

CUTLER REAL ESTATE

“What comes around goes around,” Meredith says. “Popular opinion indicates the gray and white trend is coming to an end in favor of warmer colors and wood. I don’t think that means golden oak is coming back, but definitely other wood tones are.

In bathroom trends, big jetted tubs are out. Buyers prefer a walk-in shower in the primary bath and maybe a soaker tub. They like a spa-like retreat and with plenty of storage. It is important to have at least one bathtub in the house.

330.495.7430 | MBailey@CutlerHomes.com, BaileyPlatekGroup.CutlerHomes.com

When it comes to buying, Nancy says the most important aspect to consider is whether it suits your individual lifestyle and needs.

“While market trends and resale value are important considerations, finding a home that aligns with your lifestyle, preferences and specific requirements is essential for long-term satisfaction and enjoyment,” Nancy explains. “A few key factors to consider are size and layout, location or special requirements for features such as a home office, dedicated play area for children, petfriendly environment or accessibility features if necessary.”

330.323.6023 | NPlatek@CutlerHomes.com , BaileyPlatekGroup.CutlerHomes.com

The kitchen is one of the first rooms a buyer sees when entering the home, and first impressions last. Buyers today want move-in ready homes with little to no work prior to getting the keys.

“The majority of buyers are looking for a home that is updated with current kitchen trends, i.e., granite or quartz countertops,” Ruthanne says. “Eat-in kitchens are important to buyers and spaces where families gather. A large open kitchen with up-to-date appliances and spacious counters is a major selling point for buyers, too.”

330.324.0573 | RWilkof@DeHoff.com , RWilkof.DeHoff.com

DEHOFF REALTORS

CUTLER REAL ESTATE

RUTHANNE WILKOF  NANCY PLATEK

Feel Right at Home

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 9TH - 10TH

50th Annual Yankee Peddler Festival

13190 PATTERSON RD. NORTH LAWRENCE, OHIO 44666

Step back in time to pioneer days at this annual festival featuring hundreds of talented works from master crafters and artists. Stroll through the 75 charming wooded acres while browsing rustic shops, enjoying live entertainment and dining on delicious colonial-inspired food. YankeePeddlerFestival.com

SEPTEMBER 14TH

Vintage Canton

200 MARKET AVE. N CANTON, OHIO 44702 | 4:30 PM

CANTON’S PREMIER KITCHEN & BATHROOM DESIGN DESTINATION

Whether your project is a cost-effective update of a tired kitchen, or you are ready for your dream bathroom, Cabinets2Countertops should be your first stop when considering a local expert. We take pride in what we do. Let our creativity and years of experience lead your project in the right direction.

Vintage Canton is a sophisticated downtown gathering offering city charm alongside live music and vibrant art vendors. As you enjoy the evening, indulge in delicious gourmet food and quality wine and craft beer from downtown restaurants and Stark County favorites. CantonChamber. org/Vintage-Canton-2023

SEPTEMBER 23RD - 24TH

Quarry Artisan Market

6670 STATE ST. NE, LOUISVILLE, OHIO, 44641

Enjoy a group of local artisans and makers coming together in a wonderful outdoor Stark County location. The backdrop is a beautiful quarry lake with gothic timber frame barn and storybook house. Live music and food will complete your experience. Learn more at Facebook Quarry Artisan Market.

GIVE US A CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE AN IN-PERSON MEETING TO DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT. Want

THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be. “We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life.

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type?

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE

FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI