Cullman, AL January 2023

A healthy new year

F ITN E S S

‘ YOU’RE STRO N GER TH AN YOU FEEL’ TIPS FO R A H E ALTH I ER KITCH EN TR AV E L

TH E DRAW O F TH E FALL S

JA N UA RY 2 02 3

Jeff Roberts ChFC®, CRPC®, CFS®, CKA®, BFA™, APMA®, AEP®

Private Wealth Advisor | Founder and President MavenCross Wealth Advisors®, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC (205) 313-9150 * jeff.roberts@ampf.com * mavencrosswealth.com

Financial Planning for 30 Years

Ranks Among Alabama's Top Leaders in Financial Planning

Dedicated to being "the obvious choice for guiding clients to joyfully steward their resources."

Barron's® Top 1,000 Advisors, 2009-2011 Barron's® Top 1,200 Advisors, 2014-2022 CA Insurance #0G34699 Barron's® generates its rankings from a formulaic analysis of surveys answered by candidates regarding assets, revenue, and quality of practice, including an advisor's regulatory and compliance record. Barron's® is a registered trademark of Dow Jones, L.P.; all rights reserved. This award is not indicative of this advisor's future performance. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its advisors pay a fee to Barron's in exchange for the ranking. The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2022 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

January 2023 PUBLISHER

Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Hello 2023!

It’s a new year Happy New Year everyone! Who is ready for 2023?

I hope you all had a fabulous holiday season spent with your family and friends! Now that the tree is down and the ornaments and lights are boxed up, we are looking forward to a refreshing new year of renewal and inspiration.

As you flip and read through this issue, we hope we inspire you with articles about wellness and health. As always, we continue to be inspired by you and our community! The definition of wellness is “the state of being in good health, especially as an actively pursued goal.” What are your 2023 goals?

Speaking of inspiration, do you know someone who inspires you? Please reach out and let us hear from you!

Thank you for inviting us into your homes and lives, and we cannot wait to see you around town.

Live local, love local and shop locally!

Happy New Year,

Ashlea Chance CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Jennifer Murphree, Amanda Myers

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

M I S S Y G U R L E Y, P U B L I S H E R @CULLMAN_CITYLIFESTYLE_

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/CULLMAN |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Cullman City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cullman area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Cullman City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

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the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Healthy is a feeling we should all indulge.

Health and indulgence living together in perfect harmony. Discover a renewed definition of skin care in a lavish, immersive environment.

After all, health is a hard thing to overdo.

TOTA LON1ST.COM

D OW NTOW N B I R M I NGH A M

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 3

inside the issue The Health & Wellness Issue

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 Cranberry Fizz

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Lifestyle Letter

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City Scene

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Spa Day

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Happy Hour

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How To

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Healthy Lifestyle

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Driver’s Notebook

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How To

Celebrate the new year with a festive mocktail

18 Tips for a healthier kitchen

Courtesy of Kelley Bentley Ash of Swimming Buck Farm

22 ‘You’re stronger than you feel’ Step into Elevate Cullman

28 The draw of the falls Take a hike!

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Captured by Caroline Caroline Hollingsworth took this photo inside Elevate Cullman. Check out the feature story on page 22.

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HEA LT H + WELLNES S FO O D + B EV ER AG E

FI T NES S FI T NES S T R AV EL

ST Y LE + B EAU T Y

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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1: The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales made a stop in Cullman and were welcomed by thousands. 2: Many smiling faces braved the cold day to catch a glimpse of the majestic horses. 3: Cullman Regional Airport General Manager Ben Harrison waves from atop the Budweiser Clydesdale wagon. 4: The Clydesdales make their way through downtown Cullman. 5: The gorgeous animals visited during Cullman Christmas Open House, making the weekend complete. 6: We loved seeing so many friendly (and furry!) faces in the crowd! 7: The Budweiser Clydesdale mascot, this regal Dalmatian, rode atop the wagon beside the driver.

Photography by Jennifer Murphree of JenJen Photography

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C I T Y SC E N E

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

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AVE MARIA GROTTO

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AVE MARIA GROTTO

9 MISSY GURLEY

14 @SANTAJAYK

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AVE MARIA GROTTO

MISSY GURLEY

NANCY MOORE

8: Christmas at the Grotto saw the Ave Maria Grotto lit up for the season. 9: Hundreds of miniature sculptures were lit up for the community to enjoy. 10: We hope you were able to see the Grotto in lights! 11: Santa was in Cullman and was visiting our favorite stores! Thank you for tagging us! 12: Did you check out Santa’s Village at Christkindlmarkt? What a fun event! 13: It snowed in Cullman…well, sort of. We loved seeing it “snow” in the Warehouse District! 14: Nancy Moore poses with her grandsons, Jaxon and Cohen, at Cullman’s Christmas pyramid lighting.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @Cullman_CityLifestyle_

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C I T Y SC E N E

Luxury Performance Pontoons SERVING LAKES IN CENTRAL AND NORTHERN ALABAMA

21680 County Rd 222 Crane Hill, AL 35053

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& Authorized Dealer

TRE AT YOURSELF The inviting foyer of Elements Health & Wellness Spa

EVERYONE DESERVES A SPA DAY

Elements Health & Wellness Spa is located at 111A First St. NE, Cullman, AL 35055.

Everyone, yes, even you, dear reader, deserves to be pampered, especially after the stress of the holiday season.

Some people believe that going to a spa is an indulgence they can’t entertain. Not true! There are many spas in and around the Cullman area that are just waiting for you to walk through the doors. Whether you just need to unwind, want to learn more about health and skincare or are simply yearning to treat yourself (and maybe your best friends?), there is a spa out there for you.

ARTICLE BY LAUREN SMITH, WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOTAL ON 1ST, ELEMENTS HEALTH & WELLNESS SPA

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S PA DAY | HEALTH + WELLNE S S

Total on 1st is located at 1927 First Ave. N, Woodward Building, first floor, Birmingham, AL 35203.

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E L E M E N T S H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S S P A – CULLMAN Elements Health & Wellness Spa in Cullman is dedicated to providing its clients with a relaxing environment, safe and effective treatments and friendly service. It offers a wide variety of services, including Cryoskin body contouring treatment, sports therapy, nutrition response testing, whole food supplements, energy medicine, a salt chamber, infrared sauna, ionic foot detox, red light therapy, BEMER, lymphatic therapy, CBD gummies, homeopathic remedies and a traditional wellness spa.

According to Elements, “Whether your goal is to relieve your body of aches and pains that have been plaguing you or to have glowing, radiant skin, we can recommend the solution that's best for you.” (elementshws.com)

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A look inside one of the treatment rooms at Total on 1st

R E C O M M E N D .

T O TA L O N 1 S T – B I R M I N G H A M Total on 1st, located only 40 minutes away in Birmingham, Alabama, is a first-class spa staffed with expert aestheticians, skincare specialists and medical providers tasked with creating individual treatment plans tailored to your body’s specific needs. It offers a variety of advanced, non-invasive services, such as massage therapy, body contouring, chemical peels, cosmetic injectables, facials, waxing and more.

You can also book a couples’ retreat or even a private spa party— the perfect idea for a girls’ weekend of pampering. It is the perfect spot for an easy but luxurious getaway, with achievable and efficient methods for complete satisfaction and relaxation. (totalon1st.com) JANUARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

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There’s more than meets the eye/ The TempSure® eyeEnvi treatment can be used on any skin type, any time of year to help restore your youthful glow by revitalizing the skin around the eyes with little to no downtime.

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(256) 739-4000 BOOZEREYECARE.COM 1639 FIELD OF MIRACLES DRIVE SW CULLMAN, AL 35055

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Cranberry Fizz C E L E B R AT E T H E N E W Y E A R W I T H A F E S T I V E M O C K TA I L

Festive Cranberry Fizz Mocktail

Start off the new year by celebrating with friends and family. This fun and festive mocktail can be enjoyed by everyone, young and old (You can easily make it an adult-only beverage by adding your favorite vodka.)

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

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H AP PY H OU R | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Festive Cranberry Fizz Mocktail ingredients: • • • •

5 oz. Sprite 3 oz. cranberry juice Splash Grenadine Splash lemon juice

• Ice • Lemon for garnish • Fresh cranberries for garnish

directions: 1. Add ice, cranberry juice, Grenadine and lemon juice to cocktail shaker.

2. Give it a good shake and strain into a champagne coupe or martini glass.

3. Carefully add cranberries and pour Sprite on top.

4. Cut lemon into slices and separate lemon rind. Twist the rind into a spiral and top your glass rim with it.

Here’s another festive mocktail to try!

Cucumber Ginger Mocktail ingredients: • • • • • •

1 medium cucumber, sliced 10 slices fresh ginger, about 1/4-inch thick 2 cups sugar (or about 1 3/4 cups agave nectar) 2 cups still water Soda water Cucumber slices, optional

directions: 1. Place sliced cucumber and ginger in large, heat-proof bowl.

2. Bring sugar and water to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar is completely dissolved.

3. Pour over cucumber and ginger and let stand for 2 hours.

4. Strain into a bottle and chill.

5. To prepare a cocktail, stir together about 1.5 oz. syrup with about 4.5 oz. soda water to taste. Garnish with cucumber slice.

(By Cheryl Malik of 40 Aprons)

Please share your drink and recipe photos with us by tagging us on Instagram #cullmancitylifestyle

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Herb drying: "These medicinal marigolds have so many benefits including eye health, digestive and parasite control and that’s only to name a few," said Ash.

A rainbow of gorgeous veggies grown by Ash

COURTESY OF KELLEY BENTLEY ASH OF SWIMMING BUCK FARM

A basket of fresh persimmons on the counter of the Swimming Buck Farm kitchen

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H OW TO | FITNESS

Persimmons and limes from Ash's garden

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY SWIMMING BUCK FARM

healthier TIPS FOR A

KITCHEN

Many people look to start new journeys in the new year, and most of them with the goals of getting healthier and losing weight. Another thing to think about in your health journey is the kinds of foods and products you consume and use.

Meet Kelley Bentley Ash, the owner of Swimming Buck Farm in Horton, Alabama, who has dedicated her life to helping people see the benefits of clean eating and natural healing.

“Our main mission is to provide the cleanest food possible to our customers while educating them about natural healing and why it’s important to farm regenerative and no till,” said Ash. “The benefits of clean eating are vast, but it’s important to limit the toxic intake of the ingredients of conventional foods that have been genetically modified as well as sprayed with dangerous chemicals.”

Ash said it’s also vital to think about the products that fill your kitchen.

“Many chemicals are used every day in the kitchen, and a few to take notice of are your

everyday dish soap and dishwasher detergent,” she said. “Some of the basic items to start replacing when transitioning to a more natural kitchen would be to look for natural dishwasher and dish soap.”

Ash also recommends moving away from scented trash bags and steel wool soap pads.

“What you breathe in goes to your lungs, and those fragrances are not natural,” she said. “Also, instead of SOS pads, look for a chain scrubber that cleans skillets; they work great! I remember growing up we grew loofahs, and we would use those to scrub our pans.”

First, though, Ash recommends thinking about the products you put on your hands while working in the kitchen.

“Our skin is a large organ that absorbs what we put on it, which affects our liver,” she advised.

“What I would start with first is changing out the soaps and the sink cleaners. Baking soda and white vinegar are great cleaners for most anything.”

Swimming Buck Farm grows organic, heirloom provisions rooted in the South. It is a no till, no chemical, regenerative, heirloom farm that uses spring water from a well and is soy and GMO free.

Find the farm online at SwimmingBuckFarm.com and instagram.com/swimming.buck.farm.

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ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELEVATE CULLMAN

‘YOU’RE STRONGER THAN YOU FEEL’ Step into Elevate Cullman

Workouts at Elevate Cullman focus on low-impact movements.

Elevate Cullman offers an intimate setting for workouts.

Rachel Eidson opened Elevate Cullman, a barre and yoga boutique, five years ago. The intimate studio is thriving on Cullman’s southeast side, self-described as “a place for you to rest, recharge and challenge yourself to reach further than you ever thought possible.”

Eidson opened Elevate in June 2017.

“I tried some beautiful facilities in the Cullman area, but there was nothing like the studio experience I had grown to expect. I realized I was addicted to the small specialty studio where the staff greets you by name and takes time to learn how to challenge you and what type of modifications you need. I knew that I wasn’t alone and women in Cullman just needed a place to claim as their own!”

We all know January is the time for resolutions, and Eidson is quick to point out the benefits of regular exercise.

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Elevate Cullman is located at 220 First Ave. SE.

“We know that people who exercise regularly sleep better, have more energy, live longer and are at lower risk for major illnesses. With all those fabulous benefits, would it surprise you to hear that only 1 in 5 Americans actually do it?” she said.

“In general, we put exercise on the list of ‘would be nice’ activities like washing the car instead of essential activities like brushing your teeth. I think there’s actually a good reason for that. Somewhere along the line, most of us accepted the idea of ‘no pain no gain.’ Any reasonable person would dread something like that!

The sad thing is it simply isn’t true; the real benefit to exercising is in being consistent over time. You get more benefit from going for a 1-mile walk every day for 10 days versus running 10 miles one time. There’s less recovery and less risk of injury, and you’re far more likely to keep going.”

Eidson said the “secret sauce” at Elevate is making your workout something you actually enjoy, not dread.

“In the long run you’ll usually find a way to do what you love and an excuse to avoid what you don’t,” she said. “One of my favorite things to hear clients at Elevate say is ‘I can’t believe I just did that’ when they start learning. We love to remind people ‘You are stronger than you feel.’”

Elevate is perfect for someone new to fitness, according to Eidson, because the workouts involve low-impact movements.

“We kick off our shoes and work barefoot or in cute grip socks most of the time,” she laughed. “This is a strong signal from the ground up that you are moving your body with purpose. You’d be amazed at the toning you can do with your own bodyweight. It’s effective and accessible!”

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Elevate Cullman Owner Rachel Eidson is all smiles during a workout at the studio.

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Elevate prides itself on its community atmosphere.

Eidson has advice for those who might be new to fitness and wary about getting started.

“If you are brand new, my best advice is to find a friend who wants to jump in and will hold you accountable. Encouragement from a friend makes all the difference! If you don’t have a willing friend, come into Elevate and make a new one; that’s the most fun part of this place!” she said. “The best time to start your fitness journey was six months ago, and the second best time is now!”

Eidson’s pro tip? “This isn’t easy for anyone; you get better as you go!”

Something she said she hears a lot is people believe they need to lose weight or get in shape to go to a gym. “Everyone starts somewhere and the BEST way to make progress is in a community of encouraging people.”

Said Eidson, “Making changes toward a healthy lifestyle can be overwhelming.

With the new year most fitness goals focus

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on exercise and nutrition. To find focus, start small and give yourself a measurable goal focused on being consistent. I love to think of ways to enjoy rewards along the way. For example, ‘When I take my 30th barre class, on or before March 1, I’m getting the white boots I’ve been wanting.’”

She encourages you to be open to new experiences and foods. “Find veggies, herbs and seasonings that pack real flavor instead of salt and sugar. Try cooking at home two nights a week (and make enough for leftovers so you can save time). Focus on eating nourishing foods that give you energy and allow less room for junk food.

Consider investing in a nutritionist’s advice or a studio membership to keep yourself on track,” she said. “Above all, give yourself grace! You will mess up, you are human, but you're stronger than you feel, don’t quit!”

ElevateCullman.com

“EVERYONE STARTS SOMEWHERE AND THE BEST WAY TO MAKE PROGRESS IS IN A COMMUNITY OF ENCOURAGING PEOPLE.”

Elevate Cullman welcomes people of all abilities and fitness levels.

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The draw of

The Falls

Take a hike!

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY RICHARD T. ANDERSON

Sougahougdee Falls

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D R IV E R’S N OT E BOOK | TRAVE L

Sougahoagdee Falls

Bankhead is full of gorgeous waterfalls.

The author, Richard T. Anderson’s sons

And so it begins, the pitter-patter of another rainy, winter day. To some it means a good nap under a cozy blanket, a soothing sound on a tin roof or perhaps that the yard is getting the rain it's been needing.

But to many it means roaring water and beautiful waterfalls off a beaten path inside Alabama's best kept secret: William B. Bankhead National Forest.

The forest covers portions of Lawrence, Franklin and Winston counties and spans more than 180,000 acres. It is just a stone's throw away from Cullman County. The forest is full of wildlife, ranging from whitetail deer, wild hogs, foxes and several species of owls you may often hear at night while camping under the stars.

But my favorite part of the forest are the beautiful, crystal clear waterfalls that flow

through and over large rock formations.

Some are short and wide and some are super tall and pencil thin. You are most likely to find them inside a small gorge surrounded by large boulders and beautiful eastern hemlock trees, a special part of Bankhead National Forest.

There are numerous waterfalls inside the forest; some only run during the rainy season and some run year-round. Some of the rarest waterfalls you can see are the frozen ones. I've been lucky once to capture a few pictures; late December and through January are the best times to look for one.

The temperatures must get below freezing for a few days in order for the stream of water to freeze over, but they typically only last a few days due to Alabama's ever-changing weather that warms quickly.

In order to find these waterfalls I suggest joining a local hiking group that has explored the forest many times or going with someone who has the knowledge and experience to locate them. The Alabama Forestry Commission also offers maps that can assist in your efforts.

Now is the time! Get out there, and be sure to take a good walking stick, good shoes and good friends! Also, don't forget that camera. You can thank me later!

Some of the most beautiful waterfalls to find within the Bankhead are Sougahoagdee Falls, Caney Creek Falls, Shangri-La Falls and Kinlock Falls.

Find out more about the Bankhead National Forest and plan your hike at tinyurl.com/BankheadNF.

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Caney Creek Falls

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LEGGINGS 3 WAY S ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS

Our suggestions for styling faux leather leggings As we move through the season of spandex when most of us feel we’d rather not leave our stretchy pants, we wanted to feature three distinct looks using the same pair of Foil Snake Print Faux Leather leggings from Spanx.

Whether you’re brunching with the babes or getting ready for date night, these versatile leggings can carry you through from casual to chic. While there are endless ways to wear them, we’re going to show you three ways to start styling them today.

BRUNCH AFTER BARRE Who doesn’t love a good brunch with the girls after your workout complete with mimosas to celebrate? Assuming you are sweaty from leg lifts and flutter kicks, our suggestion is to layer your sweaty tank with loose layers and a light jacket to swiftly transition you from the barre to breakfast.

A hat is always a good option to have on hand in case you worked too hard and that hair is showing it. We opted for easy-to-slip-on sockless sneakers that breathe. Since feet are one of the ways the body regulates temperature, you want to go airy with your footwear after a workout.

Lastly, don’t forget a cute tote or bag. Consider throwing in a clean tank and any makeup or face wipes you may need for freshening up on your way.

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MOTO MAMA What we love about Spanx is their inherent ability to elevate your look, regardless of the occasion.

Stretchy pants in a faux leather snake design? Say no more. Pair them with edgy booties or colorful pumps for a more elegant aesthetic. Playing with different textures is a good way to add interest and intrigue. Consider a chunky sweater with some unexpected details like the bare shoulder shown here, a thick boucle or intricate detailing. We love a good leather jacket with hardware details draped over the shoulder(s) for chilly evenings as you traverse the town. Pair this look with a gorgeous sparkly clutch and chunky bracelet.

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SATUR DAY Whether you’re headed to a child’s sports game or a bar to watch the big game with your friends, leggings offer the structure and flexibility you’ll want as you find your spot among the fans in the bleachers or indulge in some lovely libations.

Layers are life for this look. We tied a button-down around the waist which is so nice through the colder winter months as both an outfit accessory and a layering piece. Fur-lined high tops provide practical footwear for this look — because who doesn’t love some killer sneaks?

A shacket and crossover bag complete the look.

Whether you want a bit of a boost, a hint of a lift, or just a little tuck, you won’t go wrong with this versatile shapewear. And with these styling tips, you’re ready to throw them on for any occasion!

Snag some of the key details of the outfits here!

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SPORTS CHIC