Fort Collins, CO September 2023

The Style Issue

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

BUSINESS CONFERENCE EMPOWERS FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS

STYLE + BEAUTY LEMONS AND LACE BOUTIQUE BRINGS CHIC AND HIGH-END TRENDS TO NORTHERN COLORADO

LOCAL INFLUENCER JESSI FOWLER’S STYLE GUIDE FOR THE PERFECT FALL OUTFIT

HOME + DESIGN

NICHE DESIGN HOUSE’S LATEST GEM

The Style Issue

Style is in everything. The way we present and express ourselves, how we move through life, in the way we design our homes, even our culinary choices. Whether big or small, the details of our lives are rooted in our style.

As ambiguous and subjective as style can be, there are constant trends and fads that sway and change our styles from time to time. The transition of seasons and weather, old trends reappearing decades later, new fads that seem to go as quickly as they come, they all contribute to the ebb and flow of our own style.

While style shows up in almost every aspect of our lives, living in Northern Colorado contributes to not only our outward style, but inward as well. There’s no doubt our natural surroundings affect the way we live our lives and that in turn influences our self expression. While there is luxury and high end expression in Fort Collins, the active lifestyle and outdoorsy nature of many residents adds an element to Northern Colorado’s style that can’t be found anywhere else. Our unique blend of mountain aesthetics, expensive hobbies, and epic need for all things local and inviting, the curated culture of Fort Collins has made for an eclectic style that is truly one of a kind.

Our issue explores style within Northern Colorado and highlights members of our community that continue to improve our community’s culture; making Fort Collins the fashionable place to live in every aspect of our lives!

JAHNA & JASON EICHEL, PUBLISHERS @FORTCOLLINSCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2023

PUBLISHERS

Jahna Eichel | jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com

Jason Eichel | jason.eichel@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Macey VanDenMeerendonk | macey.v@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Morgan Henderson | morgan@thecreativeagencyco.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Matthew Hart | matthew@thecreativeagencyco.com

Paula Megenhardt | paula@thecreativeagencyco.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Tony Deyo | tony@thecreativeagencyco.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

The Creative Agency | hello@thecreativeagencyco.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Allie Bellows

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 Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

At Re-Bath®, we design beautiful, functional bathrooms—and provide the quality products to finish the look. Plus, our licensed, insured, locally owned and operated teams can complete your project in days, not weeks.

Schedule your FREE in-home consultation today.

(970) 535-9400 REBATH.COM

Proudly serving Northern Colorado. Showroom located at: 1017 N 1st St Berthoud, CO 80513

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1-7: The Layman Lewis Financial Group celebrated their “Peace Out” book release this summer. “Peace Out” covers retirement topics while featuring Layman Lewis’ Peace Process system. Photography by The Creative Agency

8-14: City officials from Loveland and Fort Collins, local officials, and airport stakeholders gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new terminal at the Northern Colorado Regional Airport. Photography by The Creative Agency

10 Minutes North of Old Town Fort Collins

WHERE WHAT

Over 8000 square feet

Over 3 acres

Introducing your Dream Home, a captivating waterfront oasis just 10 minutes north of Old Town Fort Collins. With over 8000 square feet of luxury living space on a 3-acre lot, this remarkable property offers privacy and tranquility. The main floor boasts a stylish primary bedroom, while upstairs, three bedrooms with attached baths ensure comfort for all The basement is an entertainer's paradise with guest rooms, a state-of-the-

art theater, and an incredible bar Horses are welcome, allowing you to explore the surrounding area, and the backyard opens up to a serene waterski lake, providing picturesque views and a perfect outdoor setting Embrace the lavish lifestyle and rare opportunity this Dream Home presents.

Empowered Women Are Always In Style

The Unstoppable Women’s Business Conference educates, encourages, and empowers female entrepreneurs

Some things never go out of style, like a little black dress or red lipstick. One thing we can add to this list is supporting women-owned businesses. No one in Northern Colorado is doing more to support women entrepreneurs than the Small Business Development Centers. With 15 full-time centers and 70 part-time satellite centers, the SBDC has helped 266 local start-up businesses.

The SBDC offers entrepreneurs no-cost consulting and low-cost training to succeed and thrive in the businesses they create for the communities they serve. Last year, the SBDC brought back the Women’s Small Business Conference after an extended Covid pause. The 2022 event was the most successful in the history of the conference and this year the trend is continuing.

Formerly the NOCO Women’s Small Business Conference, it is a day designed for women entrepreneurs to learn, gain inspiration, and network. Now the Unstoppable

Women’s Business Conference, it is also a special day of education and encouragement for women business owners. This year’s theme, Educate, Encourage, and Empower, is exactly what will happen on October 10 at this conference.

We sat down with some of the organizers of the conference—Kat Hart, Program Director of the Loveland Business Development Center, Hope Hartman, Executive Director of the Larimer County SBDC, and Lisa Hudson, Executive Director of the East Colorado SBDC. As entrepreneurs themselves, these women have so much insight to share into what it means to be a woman entrepreneur and what it takes to succeed in business. They have a passion for helping small businesses succeed and thrive in their local economy and beyond.

WHAT IS THE OVERALL GOAL FOR THIS YEAR'S CONFERENCE?

KH: We really want attendees to walk away and think, ‘Hey, I learned something

new! I can actually do this!’ We don’t want these things to feel overwhelming. We also want to make sure that they’re connected with a good support network because no one is an island. No one can do this by themselves.

HH: The premise of the conference is not only to serve women small business owners but to look at the composition of it. 75% educational and 25% inspirational. The presenters, they are inspirational. They inspire even if they’re trying to teach whatever topic their session is.

LH: I think it goes back to why we chose the theme we did—Educate, Empower, and Engage.

HH: Business owners, in general, tend to go it alone quite a bit. We really are stronger together. People are willing to share the lessons they’ve learned along the way, whether it’s resources or a shortcut.  When you create this environment for everybody to come together people are like ‘I’m not alone. There are a lot of

"BUILDING UP TO THIS ANNUAL EVENT, IT’S ABOUT REALLY EMPOWERING ONE ANOTHER AS WOMEN LEADERS AND MEETING MORE AND ENGAGING AND BUILDING THAT NETWORK." - LISA HUDSON

people trying to do what I’m doing!’ and so it just creates this energy.

HOW IS THIS YEAR'S CONFERENCE DIFFERENT FROM PREVIOUS YEARS?

KH: We always strive to just do everything bigger and better than the previous year. We try to be more inclusive and have more relevant content.  I think one of the biggest changes from previous years is that we sourced from speakers that from outside of our own personal networks. We did an open call for presenters and we got an overwhelming response. Over half of them have never presented for us before, which I think is really cool.

HH: We opened it up to the marketplace to see what topics are top of mind for women entrepreneurs, and that’s how we selected what was being presented this year.

LH: There are 50% returning speakers and the rest have never presented at this conference. They’re new to us, but they had to submit a video. The rigor that they had to go through just to submit the topic, let us know they are willing to put in the effort to make it awesome. I think it’s going to change the conference in a good way.

HOW HAS THIS CONFERENCE IMPACTED YOUR LIFE AND CAREER?

KH: I grew up with a mother that was very involved in supporting other women’s professional development within the Hispanic community in Greeley. Being able to be at the helm of one of these events, supporting other women, it just feels like this great continuation of what she was trying to do and trying to empower me to do and now I get to help other

women do the same thing and connect with each other on this really cool, big scale.

HH: For me, it’s the highlight of the year. This is my favorite thing that we do. There is something about creating an event with a group of women. The whole organizing team is a group of women from different centers, all pulling the resources together, building that energy behind the scenes. Building an event that creates energy is just something to be cherished.

LH: We have so much momentum going into this year from last year. Building up to this annual event, it’s about really empowering one another as women leaders and meeting more and engaging and building that network.

This year's conference has an incredible line-up of speakers, including Anika Sawni, a 25 year-old entrepreneur who was named one of Forbes 30 Under 30. Anika has taken the beverage industry by storm. Driven by her vision to change the way people drink and think about non-alcoholic beverages, Anika created the brand Grüvi. Now available in more than 4,000 stores, Grüvi is one of the fastest-growing non-alcoholic brands in North America. In addition to Anika, more than fifteen other speakers at the conference will educate and inspire all that attend.

The Unstoppable Women’s Business Conference takes place on October 10, from 8:30 am to 5 pm, at the Aims Community College Welcome Center, located at 4901 West 20th Street, in Greeley. Tickets can be purchased at the SBDC website, eastcoloradosbdc. com/what-we-dounstoppable-womensbusiness-conference/

luxury style made local

LEMONS AND LACE BOUTIQUE BRINGS CHIC AND HIGH-END TRENDS TO NORTHERN COLORADO

ARTICLE BY MACEY VANDENMEERENDONK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN CANNON

With Northern Colorado style and aesthetic ranging from hiking attire to chic and trendy everyday wear, the possibilities are endless. Lemons and Lace Boutique captures Colorado style and carries the trendiest looks for any occasion. With summer coming to a close and the crisp fall weather approaching, the transition from colorful summer tops to knit sweaters and your favorite go-to boots will start to populate the racks and shelves of this boutique.

JORJA TOP - $79.00 SAVINE PANTS - $99.00

SELINA SHOE - $105.00

EZMAY SWEATSHIRT - $89.00

SOFTMARK SLIM RACER BACK BRA - $60.00

SOFTMARK CAUGHT IN THE MIDI LEGGING - $110.00

LEMONS SNAPBACK in Off White/Beige - $34.00

The variety in materials from faux leather, knit tops, textured fabrics, felt hats, and delicate accessories are a few of the styles and pieces that can be found this time of the year. Whether you’re needing a fall inspired outfit for outdoor activities or need to dress things up for an upcoming event, the unique pieces in this store's collection will keep your closet looking one of a kind while following your favorite trends.

GLENNA DRESS MEDIUM - $170.00 FARAH HEEL in Black - $65.00

BOBBIE MID RISE WIDE LEG W/ CROSS - $158.00 GIRLFRIEND V-NECK in Black - $46.00

HAZEL BOOTIE - $149.00

SIARAH JACKET - $149.00

EZRA WESTERN HAT in Tan - $124.00

JORJA TOP - $79.00

BLACK BELMONT BOOTS - $190.00 FAUX

THE RECORD SHORT in Cognac - $59.00

EARLY RISER SUNGLASSES - $89.00 DISC

STRETCH BRACELET - $6.00 TRILOGY

LAYERS NECKLACE - $82.00

SANDY FAUX LEATHER PANT - $99.00

FARAH HEEL in Black- $65.00

SADDIE CREWNECK SWEATER - $69.00

MILLER FEDORA - $124.00

Amy Stevens 970-227-8867

Andrea Jones 970-599-4186

Aventus Team 970-821-5113 / 970-800-1669

Ewing Team 970-590-8383 / 970-590-8384

Janiese Alton 719-688-3820

Kris Laine 970-443-1804

Lisa Gould 970-691-4896

Sarah Tyler 970-800-1166

Shannon Miller 970-818-8895

NORTHERN COLORADO REAL ESTATE AT ITS FINEST

Casa de Cristal

NICHE DESIGN HOUSE'S LATEST GEM

ARTICLE BY ALLIE BELLOWS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY DEYO

Tucked within the majestic embrace of the Rockies, Estes Park sparkles with myriad treasures. From the awe-inspiring grandiosity of Long’s Peak and the renowned Rocky Mountain National Park to the bustling avenues of Estes, this enclave promises a myriad of adventures for every wanderlust soul. Travel up the winding roads that lead to the latest project by Niche Design House.

For those yearning for luxury amidst their mountain sojourn, Casa de Cristal emerges as the ultimate sanctuary. This freshly revamped property masterfully juxtaposes the rugged beauty of the

Rockies with sophisticated interior elegance, thanks to the visionary designers at Niche Design House. Casa de Cristal now shines as Estes Park's newest jewel.

Drawing inspiration from its breathtaking locale, Niche Design House has innovatively transformed this stellar property, breathing new life and purpose into every corner.

As the pinnacle of interior design in Northern Colorado, Niche Design House's impeccable craftsmanship on Casa de Cristal is a testament to the transformative power of design excellence.

Casa de Cristal has undergone a transformative renovation. By harnessing

natural light and blending the external landscape into its design, this rental property has evolved into an unparalleled sanctuary.

Each of the three levels of the home were redesigned with a balance of flow and function to create an intuitive ease and comfort within the practical layout. The designers also integrated luxury and elegance in harmony with the sweeping views that embraced the majesty of the surrounding mountains.

From the moment of entering Casa de Cristal, the breathtaking view of the Rockies immediately welcomes you. The stunning mountain-scape was the inspiration for the carefully crafted interior design— a beautiful contrast from the luxurious indoors to the rugged outdoors. This interaction between the setting and the polished interior is what creates a unique and artistic aesthetic.

The idea of beauty within beauty is reflected in this space, everywhere you look. Previously dark and outdated, the main space of Casa de Cristal is now spacious and harmonious with the rugged terrain that lies just out the doors. The unexpected details are what make the design distinctive. Nothing says luxury quite like the grand chandelier in the main area, unexpected from a cabin in the woods. Each accessory and piece of furniture was hand selected from brands such as Hi-End

Accents, Uttermost, Feizy, Renwil, Surya, and Hooker. It all works together to create this high-end aesthetic.

Reminiscent of a quaint mountain cabin, but with the opulence of this impressive design, the polished travertine-clad fireplace is the perfect example of incorporating elements of the previous design into the new. It’s a perfect place for all that stay here to gather and sit around the fire and partake in the age-old tradition of telling stories around a roaring fire.

By expanding the once-narrow hallways on Casa de Cristal's upper floor, the breathtaking views are further integrated into the home's layout. The seamless extension of polished travertine from the main level to the upper floor ensures a harmonious transition throughout.

The basement of Casa de Cristal serves as a communal hub, curated specifically for vibrant social interactions and enjoyment. The inclusion of a bunk room infuses a playful, child-friendly atmosphere. Simultaneously, the area exudes the ambiance of a chic local tavern—a spot where every face is familiar, all while maintaining the sophisticated elegance inherent to the rest of the home.

Utilizing the same flagstone found in the property's outdoor spaces within the basement establishes a harmonious transition from the rugged outdoors to the elegant indoors. The presence of local reclaimed wood

echoes the enchanting aura of the Rocky Mountains. It's this intricate blend of outdoor and indoor elements that sets this residence apart as a unique masterpiece.

Pool tables, high-top tables, and casual lounge seating make this basement space versatile and encourages its guests to enjoy their time by relaxing, connecting, and playing games. This pub-like atmosphere is the perfect place to unwind and put your feet up.

Every piece of furniture in the home has been thoughtfully selected, prioritizing both comfort and functionality. Each area seamlessly flows into the next, retaining its distinct character and purpose. Notably, the basement's plush, low-slung furnishings enhance its ambient lounge vibe.

Masterfully renovated by the talented team at Niche Design House, Casa de Cristal emerges as a beacon of luxury and elegance amidst the rugged backdrop of the Rockies. Experience a haven of unparalleled sophistication, truly a gem in its rawest setting.

Sara, Niche Design House

ESTES PARK FUN FACTS:

• The town was named for Joel Estes and his wife Patsy, who traveled from Kentucky to become the first permanent residents.

• The layout of the town was established within the first decade of its founding and remains mostly intact to this day.

• There are several places in Estes Park on the National Historic Register, including the Stanley Hotel, Moraine Park, McGraw Ranch, Fall River Pump House, Leiffer House, and more.

"The remodel of Casa de Cristal wasn't just about aesthetic transformation; it was about capturing the essence of the Rockies through thoughtful use of local materials and a design that opens up to the breathtaking surroundings, we've created a space that resonates with both the tranquility of nature and the luxury of modern living. This is more than a home; it's an experience that echoes the beauty of Estes Park." —

THE little BLACK DRESS

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

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 the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. 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 1920s, 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. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straightlined silhouettes. 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. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

THE POPULARITY OF THE BLACK DRESS SKYROCKETED and IT BECAME ONE

OF THE MOST influential PIECES OF CLOTHING.

COCO CHANNEL MADE THE BOLD MOVE TO PRINT A SHORT, BLACK DRESS ON THE COVER OF VOGUE IN 1926

“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. “I selected this collection of dresses to show the versatility of the black dress and to give women some new ideas of how to wear the evening gown with a train on a night out with her girlfriends or the traditional summer strappy maxi dress while running errands in cooler temperatures.”

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“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. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

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.

INTERIOR STYLING

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER

Have you ever pieced together an outfit for a special event or placed a collection of items on a shelf and then stood back and found that the pieces you pulled together totally worked or completely did not work? I used to think that I either needed a whole lot of talent or a bit of luck when it came to styling something beautifully. Turns out, there is no talent or luck about it at all. It all starts with a math formula. This formula is known as The Golden Ratio of 1.618. Discovered in the ancient world by mathematicians, this pattern can be found all over in the world of nature. This ratio creates patterns that can be found on the spines of a pinecone, seeds on a sunflower head, spirals on seashells, even the human form, to name only a few. And our eyes love to see it. Why our eyes like this particular pattern may remain a mystery but how to achieve it is no mystery at all. Fashion designers, interior designers, architects, photographers and artists have all been using this formula for centuries in order to achieve visually appealing compositions. And so can you!

LET’S MAKE A VIGNETTE!

In interior styling, a vignette is a small, curated collection of objects grouped together to create a smaller picture within a larger space in a room. Chances are, at some point you’ve put together a vignette without knowing it was one. What makes the difference between a purposefully styled vignette and a cluttered collection is all in the composition. The composition is most appealing when this amazing Golden Ratio is applied.

To get started on styling a vignette, first decide on the space you’ll place it. It could be an empty shelf, bedside table, or coffee table. Next, collect a few of your very favorite things that could be styled there. These objects could be a few books, a vase with flowers, a candle, a small clock, a plant, a few apples, the list is endless. Now that you have your space and objects to style, it’s time to assemble your vignette.

GET IN LINE! Where To Place Objects

In grid form, the Golden Ratio shows designers exactly where to place the most important objects in the composition for the greatest visual appeal. Known as Phi, this grid splits the space that you’re working with into thirds vertically and horizontally. Place the most important objects on the correlation grid lines. Even better, place on the points where the lines intersect. This will be more appealing to the eye than if the important objects are in the center of the frame or far to the sides.

FOLLOW THE FLOWERS

How many objects to use

In number form, the Golden Ratio helps us to know how many items to use when styling a vignette. This form is known as the Fibonacci Sequence (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, etc.). The sequence grows as it adds together the prior two numbers to get a new number (for example, 3+5=8 and 5+8=13, etc) and repeats. Amazingly, all the numbers that you achieve by doing this are the exact same numbers of petals that are found on flowers. How amazing is that! To apply to styling a vignette, choose a number in the Fibonacci Sequence for the number of items you will use to style. Typically 3 or 5 objects work great for small vignettes.

STEP DOWN OR TRIANGLE

What shape to create

The eye loves to see odd numbers. Odd numbers stop our brain from categorizing items into pairs which are less visually interesting. When styling a vignette, build a triangle shape of 3 points with the objects you are styling. To achieve this, vary the heights of objects to make a stepping down effect. If your items are of similar height then use books or a small object to lift one higher so that it appears taller than the others. To start, place the tallest piece in the back, medium piece in front and slightly to the side of the tall piece, then the smallest piece in front to create a stepping down effect. The Golden Triangle has angles of 72 and 36 degrees but any triangle here will do!

I hope you have fun creating your vignette and share them with me over on IG @SilvertoothHome . You can also visit me at my website SilvertoothHome.com . I’m excited for you to check it out and learn more with me there!

ARTICLE BY DAWN BURNS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

CREATING YOUR PERSONAL STYLE

Blair Moore has loved all things fashion from a young age. The Nashville native studied Fashion Merchandising and Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in the fashion capital of the world, New York City. It was inevitable the mother of three would find herself in a career where she would help other women find their confidence through their wardrobe. Blair says, “I love helping women find their true personal style and get them organized in their closet so they feel truly empowered to get dressed each day with ease and confidence!” Blair shares four trends for spring and how to incorporate them into your wardrobe.

BRIGHT AND BOLD COLORS

This season, bright colors such as hot pink and kelly green are trending. I know this can be difficult for my neutral-loving ladies, so I always recommend starting small. Choose a fun, colorful earring or add a bold clutch to brighten up your look. You can also have fun with your shoes by adding a colorful heel or sandal to a dress or denim outfit.

FLORALS

From floral midi dresses to feminine floral blouses, this season is all about flower power. Choose a flowy floral skirt and pair it with your favorite knotted tee and sandals for an effortless look. Tip: If wearing a dress with a large floral print, try adding a denim jacket, light cardigan or woven belt to add texture and break up the print.

TWO-PIECE SETS

From casual jogger sets to feminine tiered skirts and puff-sleeved tops, two-piece sets are everywhere! What I adore about twopiece sets is that you can wear them in multiple ways. Wear it as a set or take the top and pair it with denim, or take the skirt and pair it with a tee and light jacket or blazer. Two pieces, but multiple ways to wear them!

90S-INSPIRED DENIM

Let me be clear — I LOVE a skinny jean and always will! But the 90s denim trend is having a moment and if you want to embrace it, here are a couple of tips: Choose a fit that is high-rise with a more relaxed fit through the leg. You want the jean to fall right above the ankle bone. This is slimming and flattering to the eye. Pair with a strappy heel, sneaker or slide.

StyledByBlair.com

Instagram: @bestyledco_

Declutter Your Closet

edit

Edit down your closet. Ask yourself these three things: Do you still like it? Does it fit within reason? Is it still in good condition? If the answer is no, it’s time to donate or sell that item. Keep a donation basket in your closet to help you stay on track.

new and old

Buy something new, get rid of something old. Each time you buy a new item, get rid of an item in your closet. This manages the chaos of having too many options in your closet. We only wear about 20% of the items in our closet, so make a list before shopping and shop with intention.

organize

When it comes to organization, having a system in place is key. Utilize the entire space for your items. For example, buy closed bins for out of season or travel items and place them on the top shelf. Utilize the back of the door or any blank walls with hooks for hats or a jewelry organizer. Get rid of items that are taking up space in your closet like shoe boxes, sentimental items, and bulky items like luggage. Store them elsewhere if you can. The two best things you can do to save on space and have an organized closet is to invest in all matching slim velvet hangers. This frees up more space in your closet and looks great, too. And finally, add matching labeled baskets for folded items to keep everything nicely organized and in specific categories.

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

SEPTEMBER 2ND

Billy Idol at the Budweiser Events Center

BUDWEISER EVENTS CENTER | 7:30 PM

Rock Legend Billy Idol will be performing on September 2, 2023 at the Budweiser Events Center. Catch the epic show and his iconic fist-pumping in person for a night of punk rock fun. Tickets can be purchased at www.treventscomplex.com/events/ detail/billy-idol

SEPTEMBER 5TH

Courting Style: Women’s Tennis Fashion

AVENIR MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND MERCHANDISING | 12:00 PM

The traveling exhibit from the collections of the International Tennis Hall of Fame is being featured in the Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising Tuesday through Saturday until October 20, 2023. The collection showcases the intersection of tennis, fashion, personality, and identity as a reflection of concurrent social and cultural contexts from the 1870s to now.

SEPTEMBER 10TH

Pathway's Annual: A Vintage Affair

FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY

COLLEGE | 4:30 PM

The 21st annual A Vintage Affair is an evening to raise money for Pathways Grief and Loss program. The event features whiskey, wine, beer, and entertainment, along with hors d’oeuvres and desserts for all who attend. Wilbur’s Total Beverage

Mummy Mountain

Palisade Mountain

McHenry's Peak

Mount Meeker Longs Peak

Estes Park

Horsetooth Mountain

Terra Tomah Mountain

provides more than 200 varieties of libations from around the world. This spectacular event is not only a great time but a great way to support the Fort Collins community!

SEPTEMBER 13TH

Music in the Museum Concert Series

GREGORY ALLICAR MUSEUM OF ART IN THE UNIVERSITY CENTER

FOR THE ARTS | 12:00 PM

Music in the Museum is an event that explores the connection between music and visual arts. Performances by Colorado State University music faculty and students in the galleries provides a unique experience between two art forms. The free event is open to the public, but reservations are encouraged as the venue is limited on space.

SEPTEMBER 15TH

Rotary Golf Classic to Benefit Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

COLLINDALE GOLF COURSE | 8:30 AM

The second annual Rotary Golf Classic is raising money to support child literacy in the Fort Collins community. One-hundred percent of the proceeds go towards Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Larimer County. To sponsor, play, or to donate email Kerrie Luginbill at kerrie@meetotm.com to learn more.

SEPTEMBER 16TH

2023 Mural Project

FORT COLLINS | 8:30 PM

The 2023 Mural Project is an event where local artists participate in contemporary art in public spaces around Fort Collins. On September 16 artists across Fort Collins will be out painting in different locations around the city. On September 20, the Fort Collins Mural Project will host an anniversary party at Odell Brewing Company where you can meet artists and organizers of the organization.

EVENTS CONTINUED

SEPTEMBER 24TH

Lory State Park’s Mountain Bike Park Raffle

FRIENDS OF LORY STATE PARK | 8:00 AM

Support Lory State Park’s mountain bike park by entering to win a gravel bike! The winner will choose their optimum size from Drake Cycles. The drawing will take place on Sunday, September 24th. You do not need to be present to win. For more information, please email loryspfriends@gmail.com or visit https://go.rallyup.com/909da9/ Campaign/Details.

SEPTEMBER 26TH

An Evening with Patricia Bernstein

OLD FIREHOUSE BOOKS | 6:00 PM

Author Patricia Bernstein will be doing a book signing at Old Firehouse Books for her debut book “A Noble Cunning.” Meet and greet with a published author and spend an evening discussing all things literature and her new book!

SEPTEMBER 30TH

Yoga Hike - Bobcat Ridge

BOBCAT RIDGE | 10:00 AM

Join Sun Breath Yoga in a yoga hike to connect with nature as you build strength, improve balance, and find ease in mind and body while taking in the beautiful scenic location. To sign up for the event, visit www. sunbreathyoga.com/yoga-hike

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Eye Center of Northern Colorado Exhibition Series

BY JESSI FOWLER

HOW TO:

Elevate Your Casual Fall Look

Jessi Fowler, a Fort Collins local and influencer, gave us her fashion tips to take your style up a notch! Fowler knows her way around Northern Colorado style and all things elevating your outfit for any occasion. Her easy tips and tricks will give you inspiration and instruction on how to put together a chic and trendy fall outfit for your next outing!

Style can be simple yet elevated and sophisticated with a few added touches. As a mom of five and always on the go, my style is simple yet edgy and effortless. Fall is my favorite season and I’ve come up with a way to go from a day look to a night look easily! Start with a simple tee or graphic tee (always my go-to) and your favorite jeans. Add in a fun sneaker and some simple jewelry. Gold is my favorite for fall!

Going from day to night is so simple. Throw a blazer over your tee, which should be a closet staple, change your sneakers to some cute booties and you’re ready!

This is my everyday go-to look. Simple jeans, tee, and fun sneakers. Adding some edge with your shoes can take your outfit to a whole other level. Adding a blazer to your outfit immediately elevates your outfit and putting on some edgy booties will take you from day to night!

Jessi Fowler is a Fort Collins local and influencer that focuses on style, fashion, and motherhood. Find her on Instagram at  @my_curated_closets.

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