Issuu

Inside Amy Slaughter's

approach to timeless kitchen design

S T Y LE + B E AUT Y

DEFIN IN G ST YLE: T X H I LL COU NTRY ST YLE M AKERS E XPLO RE ST YLE 20 8 S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

....................................................................................................................................................................... EAT. DRINK. CELEBRATE . .......................................................................................................................................................................

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Luxury uncorked with Fredericksburg's first champagne, sparkling wine and caviar lounge.

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HABERDASHERYBOUTIQUE.COM 221 E MAIN STREET, FREDERICKSBURG

CELEBR ATING 25 YE ARS

LOVE YOUR HOME.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Fredericksburg, to the Max Take one stroll down Main Street or spend a few minutes scrolling through Hill Country vacation rentals, and a particular design trend emerges. Playful wallpaper, rich colors and layered design details have become hard to miss. They’re hallmarks of maximalism, a style that celebrates abundance, personality and collections that tell a story. The movement has been growing globally for years, but feels especially at home in the Hill Country. In a destination built around tourism, vacation rentals compete to stand out, creating spaces guests will remember after the trip. That same shift is showing up in local retail. Years ago, much of the area’s home décor landscape leaned heavily Western: large leather furniture, livestock-inspired artwork, wrought iron and heavy wood finishes. Jill Elliott, owner of Blackchalk Home & Laundry, felt something was missing. Customers searching for furniture, clothing or home décor that reflected their personality often struggled to find it. Today, Elliott sources every collection with that idea in mind. Blackchalk and it’s sister boutique, Haberdashery, embrace color, pattern, and pieces that do not follow traditional rules. Rather than designing a room around what is expected, shoppers choose items that feel personal, spark a memory or simply make them happy. This month’s stories carry that spirit. Our look into Style 208 explores a destination filled with custom boots, fine art, vintage furnishings and garden finds. Local interior designer Amy Slaughter centers a kitchen design around beauty, function and connection. Our feature on local boutiques brings together the women behind Zertz, Boutique M, Keri Kropp and Summer House to discuss personal style and favorite fall trends. We also celebrate 25 years of Haberdashery, Elliott’s boutique, where clothing carries the same details, textures and qualities found at Blackchalk. Perhaps that is why maximalism feels so natural here. It extends beyond the home. The Hill Country rarely runs out of reasons to wear the dress that makes you think, If only I had somewhere to wear that, from winery weekends and gallery openings to live music and evenings on Main Street. Whether expressed through patterned walls, bold hues, custom boots or a one-of-a-kind outfit, the common thread is individuality. Maximalism does not ask people to fit into a trend. It encourages them to build homes and wardrobes that reflect who they are. In maximalism, personality reigns. K I M B E R LY G I L E S , P U B L I S H E R @FREDERICKSBURG_CITYLIFESTYLE

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Kimberly Giles | Kimberly.Giles@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Caroline Heiberg | caroline.heiberg@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R

Amy Tucker | amy@gurldesign.com C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Ava Snoozy, Gabe Rene Brands, Amy Tucker, Matthew Niemann

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Fredericksburg City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Fredericksburg area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

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 Fredericksburg City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Forging meaningful relationships through thoughtful design solutions

209 s. llano, suite b fredericksburg mustardarchitectsTX.com 830.997.7024

inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

16 Featured

20 28

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Designed for Gathering

Kitchens inspire connection through timeless design, encouraging conversation, celebration and connection

Texas Style Makers

Influential Hill Country boutique owners discuss trends and what they're most excited about this season

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Trend Setter STYLE + BEAUTY

Inspired By STYLE + BEAUTY

Events

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Inside Fredericksburg's Style 208

From custom boots to original art, Style 208 reflects a fresh approach to Texas style

On the Cover Interior designer Amy Slaughter at her Fredericksburg studio, where she collaborates with clients to create timeless, highly personal homes. Photography: Ava Snoozy

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

Drink More Texas Wine! Adega Vinho, where Family & Friends Choose to enjoy the day. Here in Stonewall, we are creating our vision of a community centered around our Texas Hill Country wine. Our spaces provide friends and visitors with a setting that creates wonderful experiences and lasting memories. After all, wine is the time machine that often takes us back to life’s greatest memories, moments, and conversations with the people we love. Adega Vinho is a family-owned and operated Estate winery producing award-winning wines from 100% Texas-grown fruit, tipping our hat to Portugal, one of our favorite wine regions.

Making Texas Wine History. Winner of one of the first-ever Gold Medals for a Texas winery at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards for our 2021 Estate Tempranillo.

www.adegavinho.com | 830.265.5765 1000 Ranch to Market Rd 1623 Stonewall, TX 78671

SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

The Hoffman House held a summer party for supporters of the newly formed Fredericksburg Racquet Center, still under construction. To learn more, please contact them at www.fbgracquetcenter.org 1: Mary Williams, Rosann Mitrione, Hector Ramirez 2: Deborah Poole. Kristen Fanning. 3: Jeannine Henderson, Sandra Haines, Marcela Guion 4: Alison Leonard, Natalie Dayton, Naomi Scott 5: Alison Leonard, Natalie Dayton, Naomi Scott

Walnut Creek Ranch Walnut Creek Ranch is 10 miles from Fredericksburg, surrounded by rolling hills that bring out nature’s beauty with each parcel (25-75 acres). The Burr Oak Creek traverses the ranch with a few live springs mixed in; each parcel has abundant hardwoods for shade and cover. www.txranchlandsales.com | 817-454-3173 1001 Water Street STE B 200 Kerrville, TX 78028 10

C I T Y SC E N E

Come and check out the NEW Walnut Creek Ranch!

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ F R E D E R I C K S B U R G _ C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

Chef Ashley Odom has been hosting a Thursday Supper Series where the community has been packing in this summer to enjoy a prix-fixe menu that is seasonally inspired and served community style at the Harvey. www.theharveyfbg.com

weddings . supper clubs . private parties . holiday

for your next event Host your next private event or enjoy a curated supper club at The Harvey at Elk & Main in Fredericksburg. As warm, welcoming and cozy as it is beautiful, this intimate space will allow you and your guests to relax and connect while our team takes care of every detail to make your experience at The Harvey memorable.

Scan the QR code for more information

theharveyfbg.com 423 e. main st. fredericksburg, tx S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

LUXURY LIVING, REIMAGINED FOR HEALTH Kingdom Owned | World-Class Experience | Healthy Home

SEPTEMBER 2026

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

LoRusso Earns Legal Honor Scene in S.A. has named Maria LoRusso, J.D., M.B.A. Finance, one of its Outstanding Women in Law for 2026 in the Business/Corporate Law category. The peer-nominated honor recognizes attorneys whose work has been personally observed by fellow members of the legal profession. This marks LoRusso’s third consecutive year receiving the distinction. She will be featured in the magazine’s Summer 2026 edition.

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VB @L E N A R D C R A F T E DH OME S

42 9 Peters o n D r. Kerr v i l l e, TX 78 0 28

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

A Place for Everything with Paloma Cabinet Co. As fall schedules fill with school, work and seasonal activities, an organized entryway can keep daily routines running smoothly. Paloma Cabinets creates custom storage designed for the way each household lives. This built-in combines tall cabinets and drawers with open cubbies, hooks, a bench and countertop space, giving shoes, bags, jackets and other essentials a designated place while bringing warmth and character to a hardworking area of the home.

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Host your event with us! Team meetings | customer appreciation | Wedding rehearsals | special birthdays | retirement Indoor & outdoor options available Scratch kitchen or outside catering

For inquiries please contact cindy@covingtoncellars.com 8262 W US 290, Hye, Texas CovingtonCellars.com

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

business monthly CONTINUED

Fill Your Head

Voilà Arrives on Main Six Twists has opened Voilà, a new chocolate and wine cellar at the corner of Main and Elk streets in Fredericksburg. Located in the former Ocotillo Chocolate and Wine space, the new concept brings together sparkling wine, chocolate and thoughtfully selected pairings in an inviting downtown setting. Guests can find Voilà at 427 E. Main Street and follow @voilabysixtwists for current events and updates.

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Want to be featured? 10915 US-290 Fredericksburg, TX 78624

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S TYLE 208

Sa S le tor W La ew ee bo id ke r e nd Da y

Furniture | Art & Decor | Custom Boot Bar Flower Farm & Market | Vintage & Antiques

STYLE. STAY. DISCOVER. Experience Fredericksburg in spaces as memorable as the town itself.

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502 Jenschke Lane, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 733-2465 www.style208.com | VB

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DESIGNED FOR G AT H E R I NG Kitchens inspire connection through timeless design

Soft blue cabinetry and warm wood finishes give this Slaughter Design Studio kitchen a relaxed, welcoming character.

For interior designer Amy Slaughter, style begins long before selecting finishes or fixtures. It’s about creating a home that reflects the people who live there. Nowhere is that more evident than in the kitchen. While its purpose is practical, it’s also where conversations unfold, meals become traditions and guests gather. Whether preparing a holiday feast or sharing coffee with friends, the kitchen often becomes the center of everyday life.

Q&A WITH AMY SLAUGHTER

What does style mean to you? Style is about creating your own personal visual language and having the ability to express your personality through where you live. What colors or themes for the kitchen do you like this season? We are embracing soft, organic greens that are not too dark, particularly if there are views to the outside or open to great room spaces.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW NIEMANN, AVA SNOOZY

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

TH E FE ATURE S:

Amy Slaughter

Layers of blue and natural wood bring color, warmth and depth to the kitchen.

Designers review color and fabric samples, refining the palette that brings the space together.

Why is the kitchen a popular design hub for all homes? “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” This phrase rings to me because it is true for all of us, in one way or another. Most social occasions often center around food. Holidays tend to be meal-centric and take time to prepare. As a result, whether it’s friends that are visiting or family members that live with you, they want to hang out where you are. The Kitchen is the sensory heart of your home. Experiences incorporate taste and smell, invoking memories and an emotional response. Amy Slaughter, founder and lead designer of Slaughter Design Studio, brings more than two decades of interior design experience to each project.

Slaughter Design Studio

A natural stone backsplash introduces subtle texture and variation while complementing the space's soft blue cabinetry.

Slaughter Design Studio can be found at 711 Llano Street in Fredericksburg. (830) 307-3397 https://w w w.slaughterdesign studio.com/ S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

THE HILL COUNTRY'S CHOICE SINCE 2001

Curated Food & Wine Excellence Explore the unparalleled wine tasting experience offered by VinoCadre-trained professionals. Originally founded in Saint Helena, CA, Vinocadre now kicks vineyard dirt in Texas Hill Country. Comprised of leading professionals promoting food and wine education, Vinocadre offers an innovating platform by taking the winery experience to your office, vacation retreat or home. Our sommelier team offers a wide array of creative options, all custom designed to your group.

vinocadre.com | V vinocadre (707) 696-0592 | Reservation & Personal Concierge

THE EASE OF

Automated Living Bring comfort, style and greater control to your home with custom window treatments from Kerrville Window Fashions. Our team provides full-service solutions for every space, including shades, shutters, drapery and outdoor screens. For a limited time, enjoy two special offers from Kerrville Window Fashions: Free PowerView® Automation Receive complimentary PowerView Automation with the purchase of select Hunter Douglas shades, including Silhouette® and Pirouette® Window Shadings. Custom Shutter Savings Enjoy complimentary professional installation on NewStyle®, Palm Beach® and Heritance® shutters, plus complimentary upgrades on NewStyle® and Palm Beach® shutters. Schedule your consultation with Kerrville Window Fashions and find the right treatment for every window. kerrvillewindowfashions.com 830.733.0041

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kerrvillewindowfashions 512 Sidney Baker #160 Kerrville TX

Art + Environment Modern Casitas | Artists Workshops | Nature for Everyone

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Texas Style

Makers

Meet four boutique owners across the Hill Country

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AVA SNOOZY, GABE RENE BRANDS

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Keri Kropp has built a design brand around expressive, uncommon home goods and pieces selected to last.

They spend months discovering collections, interpreting trends and helping buyers find pieces they’ll love long after the season ends. As buyers, stylists and business owners, these women help shape the Hill Country style landscape. Here, they answer our questions to share what’s catching their eye and what belongs in your fall wardrobe.

Keri Kropp Keri Kropp is the founder of Keri Kropp Goods & Finery, where her eye for timeless style, luxury fashion and thoughtfully curated interiors has shaped one of Kerrville’s premier lifestyle destinations since 2011.

WHAT DOES STYLE MEAN TO YOU?

Style is about feeling like the best version of yourself. It’s about discovering what makes you feel confident, comfortable and authentically you. When you know what works for your body, your lifestyle and your personality, getting dressed becomes easier and a lot more joyful.

WHAT IS FUN ABOUT FALL STYLE?

Fall is when fashion really gets to play. It’s the season of layering, textures, knits, boots, jackets and accessories that elevate an outfit. I love how a few thoughtful pieces can create so many different looks. Fall is when luxury fabrics hit the stores. It’s the perfect season for layering and having fun.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE FALL FASHION TRENDS?

Keri Kropp Goods & Finery carries tableware, furnishings and decorative pieces for the home.

My favorite thing about fall trends are the rich colors, leather, cashmere and always boots. Keri Kropp can be found at 214 Earl Garrett Street in Kerrville. (830) 315-5000 https://kerikropp.com/

CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

Layers of furniture, art and décor reflect Summer House's approach to Hill Country interiors.

Christina Flood Christina is the owner of Summer House in Ingram, where she pairs curated home furnishings with interior design services inspired by timeless Texas style and years of residential design experience.

WHAT DOES STYLE MEAN TO YOU?

To me, style is about authenticity. I think the best style feels effortless and reflects who you are rather than what’s trending. I love spaces that feel layered over time, with natural materials, vintage pieces and things that tell a story. If someone walks into your home and immediately feels comfortable, you’ve gotten it right.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT FALL STYLE? Fall has always been my favorite because it naturally slows everything down. I love soft textures, warm wood tones, chunky knits, worn leather and bringing nature indoors.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE TRENDS FOR HOME DÉCOR THIS FALL? Christina Flood, owner and lead designer of Summer House, brings her background in interiors and home staging to the Ingram store.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

I’m excited to see people moving away from fast trends and towards homes that feel timeless and personal. We’re seeing warmer colors, natural stone, unlacquered brass, rich velvet, vintage artwork and heirloom pieces replacing spaces that feel overly perfect. I also think people are investing in fewer, better pieces that they’ll love for years instead of decorating for a season. Summer House can be found at 3295 Junction Highway in Ingram. (830) 367-3000 https://www.summerhousetx.com/

Danita J. Jarreau Danita Jarreau founded Zertz in 2003, creating a Fredericksburg boutique known for its distinctive mix of fashion, accessories and gifts paired with the kind of personal service that has made it a Main Street favorite.

WHAT DOES STYLE MEAN TO YOU?

Style is different for each person. Style is what you are comfortable in and what makes you feel confident in the way you look.

WHAT IS EXCITING ABOUT FALL FASHION FOR YOU AND ZERTZ?

Danita Jarreau opened Zertz in Fredericksburg in 2003, creating a colorful shopping destination for locals and visitors.

We are excited to add some new men’s lines for fall and to expand our jewelry selection. We are always looking to add new brands and expand our most successful brands. We are looking forward to our jean selection going forward and hope we can have a pair to fit everyone’s body, style and price point.

Zertz carries an eclectic mix of clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories and gifts in downtown Fredericksburg.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE FALL TRENDS THIS SEASON?

We love the color chocolate brown for fall. Maybe I bought too much but I just couldn’t get enough. Lace is going to be big for fall and our new brand, Varley, is going to offer an upscale active line that we are all loving. Zertz can be found at 106 E. Main Street in Fredericksburg. (830) 990-8900 https://zertz.com/ CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Boutique M's selection includes clothing, accessories, gifts and home décor.

Margaret opened Boutique M in Kerrville as a place where personal style and community could come together.

Bold colors, playful patterns and statement accessories fill the racks at Boutique M in Kerrville.

Margaret Raymond Margaret fulfilled a lifelong dream when she opened Boutique M in Kerrville, creating a destination where personal style and community go hand in hand. Sterling Stark, vice president of fashion affairs, shares her insights on style in this Q&A.

WHAT DOES STYLE MEAN TO YOU?

To me, style is the most fundamental form of self-expression. Our clothes, jewelry and accessories all tell part of our story: grandmother’s ring, an M necklace representing flood relief, Boutique M’s signature over-the-top sets–all little glimpses of who we are.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT FALL STYLE?

Jackets and cardigans! At a time marked by yet another natural disaster and high gas prices, fall asks us not to scrap our old wardrobes, but to reimagine them. Boutique M lives by this. We love elevated essentials, from the Perfect White Tee (which also

comes in other colors) and The Shirt (with no gaping buttons or ironing required), to Farm Rio’s dress-up-or-down dresses. Secret tip: Farm Rio knits are fabulous! With Liverpool Jeans and Spanx for ready-to-wear and activewear, we love covering all the bases from day to night! Whether it’s a neighborhood walk or an event with the girls, gone are the days of thinking, “I will wear this once and stow it away.” Instead, we ask: How can I make my wardrobe work for me?

WHAT FALL TRENDS ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT?

Equestrian influences and big prints–floral, leopard, aviation-inspired and vintage inspired. Also… Elevated essentials! Multi-purpose outfits! SETS! Boutique M can be found at 1008 Sidney Baker Street in Kerrville. (830) 315-2121 https://boutiquem.com/ S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

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Back to School, but Make It Stylish! Get them classroom-ready with the cutest looks from Liebeskind Children’s Boutique. From cool kid classics to fresh fall arrivals, we’ve got everything they need to start the year in style.

LiebeskindFBGTX.com | (830) 307-9349 127 E. Main St. Fredericksburg, TX 78624 26

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Hill Country Homes 150 E Main Street, Suite 203 Fredericksburg, TX 78624 210.201.6393 www.card-and-company.com

People • Architecture

Wine Tasting Bar + Bistro 419 W. Main Street, Fredericksburg

Open 7 Days for Lunch + Dinner

Wine from our Estate Vineyard in Santa Barbara perfectly paired with Farm to Table Cuisine!

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OPEN 7 DAYS/WEEK Mon-Thur: 1pm-8pm Fri-Sat: 11am-9pm Sun: 11am-8pm

WEEKLY SPECIALS Monday | $15 Burger & Brew Tuesday | 1/2 off Wings & Select Bottles of Wine (830)733-5000 | ALBERTHOTEL.COM

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WE ARE LOCATED BETWEEN JACK’S CHOP HOUSE + ALLA COMPAGNA

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Inside Fredericksburg's Style 208

ARTS, BOOTS AND VINTAGE FINDS

ARTICLE BY CAROLINE HEIBERG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AVA SNOOZY

T R E N D SE T T E R | STYL E + BE AU T Y

Style 208 combines a furniture showroom, art gallery, design studio and boutique under one roof. Located on Jenschke Lane just outside Fredericksburg, the business reflects owners Gabriel and Litsa Folse’s background in home design, fine art and craftsmanship. Rather than following a single decorating trend, the showroom brings together furniture, original artwork, antiques, pottery and home décor. The couple’s path to Fredericksburg began with an award-winning custom home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Their design earned three awards during the Haciendas Parade of Homes, and the property’s address–208 Camino del Norte–later became the inspiration

for the name Style 208. After relocating to the Texas Hill Country, they built a 1,600-square-foot showroom to showcase the design approach they had developed through that project. Their Santa Fe influence appears throughout the store, blended with Texas materials, European antiques and Southwestern furnishings. Large furniture pieces share space with original artwork, reclaimed architectural elements, pottery, jewelry, coffee and fresh-cut flowers. The inventory changes regularly, giving repeat visitors something new to browse while offering ideas for mixing rustic materials with softer finishes and contemporary accents. CONTINUED >

Opposite page, starting from the top left and going left to right: Hats complete Style 208's collection of Western-inspired accessories, displayed alongside custom boots and other distinctive finds. | Located just off Highway 290, Style 208 combines a furniture showroom, art gallery, Boot Bar and seasonal garden in one destination. | The showroom brings together fine art, vintage finds and one-of-a-kind furnishings in layered displays. Image Above: Style 208's Boot Bar offers different styles and customization options for creating a unique personal look.

What's the recipe for curating personal style? Solid construction, obvious texture, a blending of colors that make you happy and the enjoyment of the journey. - Litsa Folse S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

T R E N D SE T T E R | STYL E + BE AU T Y

The showroom also highlights the Folses’ own creative work. Litsa produces custom leather and cowhide handbags, along with paintings and photography, while Gabriel brings decades of experience in film together with woodworking and fine art. Rotating gallery exhibits feature additional artists, and a dedicated Boot Bar offers appointments for customers seeking custom-fitted boots. Some customers stop in for a single piece, while others work with the Folses on one of Style 208’s most distinctive offerings: Boot Bar consultations. Customers design boots by selecting the leather, color, heel, height and embroidery before each pair is made to order. Together, the showroom, gallery and studio reflect the couple’s belief that good design comes from collecting pieces with character and making them work together to reflect individual style.

Inside St yle 208 The Gallery

Style 208 represents Texas oil painter Eric Fasking, whose landscapes, wildlife and Western scenes are painted in an impressionistic realism style. The gallery also features artwork by owners Gabriel and Litsa Folse and rotating guest artists. Custom boots add color, pattern and personality to Style 208's collection of art, furniture and home décor.

The Boot Bar

Design custom handmade boots by selecting the leather, color, height, heel and embroidery. In-store fittings and Boot Parties are available by appointment.

Bags & Bling

Browse Litsa Folse's handcrafted cowhide handbags alongside vintage Southwestern jewelry, turquoise, sterling silver, cowgirl hats and feather hat bands.

Furniture & Décor

One-of-a-kind furnishings, antiques, pottery and home accessories fill the showroom.

Farm & Market

Seasonal flowers, Hill Country honey, locally roasted coffee and other small-batch goods connect the shop to the Folses' surrounding property.

Gift Baskets

Custom baskets can be assembled with market items, local treats, artisan goods and home décor for holidays, celebrations and special occasions. Style 208 can be found at 502 Jenschke Lane in Fredericksburg. (830) 733-2465 https://style208.com/ Opposite page, bottom left: Rustic materials and collected details define the interiors at Style 208. Above image: Outside the showroom, the garden extends the Style 208 experience with seasonal flowers. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

I F YO U A R E READING THIS... S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

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JLP BUILDERS | AFFORDABLE LUXURY | CUSTOM HOME BUILDER JLP Builders is excited to announce its expansion into Fredericksburg and the surrounding Hill Country. With over a decade of experience, we specialize in affordable luxury homes built with quality, functionality, and reliable timelines. Ready to build? Let’s talk!

(830) 214-5610 | sales@buildwithjlp.com | www.buildwithjlp.com S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

Founder Jill Elliott has guided Haberdashery through 25 years of changing trends without losing the store's distinctive point of view.

25 YEARS OF HABERDASHERY The story behind the style

From a tucked-away back room to a prominent storefront, Haberdashery has grown while retaining the originality that first attracted customers.

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY GILES

I NSP IR E D BY | STYL E + B E AU T Y

A haberdashery is a shop that traditionally sells clothing and accessories, particularly men’s goods, but Jill Elliott has made the name distinctly her own. For 25 years, her Fredericksburg boutique has reflected her

love of well-made clothing, thoughtful details and pieces with a story. Jill moved to Fredericksburg after college in 1996 and met her husband, Danny, soon after he arrived the following year. When she decided to start Haberdashery, Danny graciously cashed his small 401(k) to provide the seed money. Jill studied interior design and fashion in college and later worked closely with Carol Hicks Bolton in Fredericksburg. She enjoyed interiors, but she continued returning to clothing–especially feminine pieces, vintage finds and designs that felt different than what shoppers could find elsewhere. With seed money in hand, Jill set out to launch her store. “I took all the money I had at the time, grabbed my mom and said, ‘Let’s go to Dallas Market and see what we can find and learn.'” The trip introduced her to designers she would continue carrying decades later. Among the first was Nataya, whose clean lines, quality materials and intricate details matched Jill’s vision. Learning the stories behind those designers became equally important, allowing her to share them with customers.

Her first retail space was a small back room inside her father’s former Hill Country music store at 155 East Main Street. Pregnant with her first son, Tucker, Jill could step away to help shoppers while her father or a staff member held the baby. She covered pegboard dressing-room walls with newspapers from the 1940s, creating an unusual backdrop that soon attracted attention of its own. Visitors recognized relatives and pieces of local history among the clippings. Jill still remembers her first sale: a $68 yellow twin set. She reinvested the small profit in more merchandise. The customer later became the doctor who delivered Tucker, one of many connections that shaped the store. Today, three generations of some families shop at Haberdashery. As Haberdashery grew from its beginnings into a prominent Main Street boutique, Jill continued following the buying philosophy that shaped her first market trip: choose what she would wear. Her creative reach expands beyond clothing with Blackchalk Home + Laundry, an eclectic home goods store, set in a historic CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FRE D E R I C KS BUR G

building along Fredericksburg's Warehouse Row. There, Jill applies the same eye for distinctive finds to furniture, lighting, rugs, textiles, jewelry and objects sourced locally during her travels. Together, the two shops reflect the view that everyday surroundings, like style, should include beauty, character and an element of surprise. Over time, Jill’s personal style has shifted from feminine and formal to classic, whimsical pieces suited to changing life stages and the Texas heat. Cotton, linen and other comfortable materials now influence her selections. Haberdashery carries clothing for women and men, with an emphasis on lasting quality rather than fast fashion. Jill wants customers to build enduring capsule wardrobes while leaving room for playful additions through every stage of life. Twenty-five years later, that remains the heart of Haberdashery. “I want to create an experience where you feel like you are purchasing a very special wardrobe piece,” she says. “At Haberdashery, I want clothing that makes you feel unique, makes you feel beautiful and special, with pieces that last in your closet for a long time.” Haberdashery can be found at 221 East Main Street in Fredericksburg. https://haberdasheryboutique.com/

“I want to create an experience where you feel like you are purchasing a very special wardrobe piece.” After 25 years, Jill Elliott remains the stylist and creative eye behind Haberdashery.

I NSP IR E D BY | STYL E + B E AU T Y

Travel has long influenced Elliott's selections, bringing unexpected colors, textures and details into the Fredericksburg boutique.

Haberdashery celebrates 25 years of distinctive fashion on Fredericksburg's Main Street.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

SEPTEMBER 5TH - 6TH

Redbud Artisan Market Marktplatz Pavilion, 126 W. Main St., Fredericksburg, TX 78624 | 10:00 AM 5:00 PM the 5th, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM the 6th Celebrate a decade of Texas craftsmanship at the Redbud Artisan Market, where more than 50 artisans showcase original paintings, jewelry, woodworking, glass art, photography and more. Browse one-of-a-kind handmade pieces, enjoy live music and discover local talent throughout Labor Day weekend at Fredericksburg’s Marktplatz. SEPTEMBER 11TH - 13TH

Amazing America 250 1668 S US Hwy 87, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 | 7:30 PM Friday, 2:00 PM Saturday and Sunday Celebrate America’s 250th birthday through songs and dramatizations featuring selections from Hamilton, 1776, Parade and Ragtime. A lobby display presented by the local Daughter’s of the American Revolution chapter accompanies the one-weekend production. SEPTEMBER 12TH

Wildseed Farms Fall Festival 100 Legacy Dr., Fredericksburg, TX 78624 | 11:00 AM Kick off fall with a festive day at Wildseed Farms featuring pumpkins, live music, family activities, shopping, garden strolls, food and plenty of picture-perfect moments. It’s an easy way to enjoy an autumn day in the Texas Hill Country, with fun for visitors of all ages. Free admission; activity fees may apply.

EVE N TS

S E P T E M BE R 2 4 T H

VIP First Look Night at 8th Street Market 523 8th St., Comfort, TX | 5:00 PM Get an early look before the crowds at the Vintage Flea Market’s VIP First Look Night. Shop vintage treasures, home décor and artisan goods while enjoying live music, food trucks and wine. September 24th, 5-8 p.m. in Comfort. Tickets are $25, with proceeds benefiting Moment of Truth Ministries. S E P T E M BE R 2 5T H - 2 6TH

Vintage Flea Market

YOUR LEGACY,

523 8th St., Comfort, TX | 9:00 AM 5:00 PM Spend the weekend exploring one-ofa-kind finds at the 8th St. Market Vintage Flea Market. Browse vintage antiques, handcrafted goods, boutique clothing, artwork and home décor from vendors across the region. September 25-26, 9 AM - 5 PM at the 8th St. Market in Comfort. Admission is free.

EXQUISITELY CRAFTED

S E P T E M BE R 2 6T H

Southern Living Hill Country Tailgate Contigo Ranch | 6:00 PM Football season gets a Hill Country twist as Southern Living debuts its first Hill Country Tailgate at Contigo Ranch. Expect celebrated Texas barbecue, live entertainment, local drinks and plenty of game-day spirit, all set against one of Fredericksburg’s most scenic ranch properties. Admission also includes a tour of the 2026 Southern Living Idea House.

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Every Stitch Tells a Story

Textile artist Beth Cunningham turns clothing into a medium for storytelling

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY TUCKER

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Every dress begins with a story. For Fredericksburg artist Beth Cunningham, clothing itself becomes a canvas for storytelling. Her sculptural paper dresses and textile art explore memory, identity and the stories carried across generations. “Style involves everything; the way you lead your life, the values that you have, the dress you’re wearing and how you’re presenting yourself,” Cunningham says. “But that’s just the first step.” Her dresses are not garments to be worn. They are portraits without bodies, carrying stories of women across generations, cultures and histories.

THE INSPIRATION

Raised in West Virginia by a mother who worked as a seamstress, Cunningham grew up surrounded by fabric, patterns and thread. Her family’s resources were limited and handmade clothing became an expression of care and dignity. Those early experiences became the artistic language she still speaks today. After retiring from more than four decades of teaching, Cunningham found herself finally confronting grief she had postponed for years following the death of her daughter. “The dress has always been twofold,” she explains. “You present a persona to the public, but inside, nobody knows what is going on.” Along a river in Texas, she began creating embroidered dress forms that transformed grief into visual narratives. Each piece became autobiographical, stitched with quotations, memories and emotions that words alone could not express. The dresses became vessels for love, loss, divorce, healing, friendship, betrayal, creativity and resilience. Through thousands of carefully placed stitches, Cunningham gradually found both her artistic voice and a sense of peace.

THE PROCESS

Research is as important as stitching. Historical documents, maps, vintage textiles, botanical references and clothing construction all become part of each piece. Handmade papers are layered with history before embroidery completes the story. Embroidery has accompanied Cunningham since childhood, beginning with afternoons spent stitching alongside her mother and grandmother. The repetitive motions remain central to her practice today. “It’s like my mind could drift,” she recalls. “My hands, even at a young age, knew what they were doing, and I could sort of float and think about stories.” For Cunningham, stitching is inheritance as much as technique. “It tells the story,” she says. “Someone had to teach you. Who was that person? You’re carrying their story with you.”

THE LASTING THREAD

If some people wear their heart on their sleeve, Beth Cunningham’s dresses carry entire lives. Her work explores style not as fashion, but as a reflection of memory, identity and lived experience. In her hands, thread becomes a line, a stitch becomes a sentence, and a dress becomes something more enduring than fashion. Every dress preserves a story that might otherwise be forgotten. CONTINUED >

THE STORIES

Her current work explores the untold lives of women in the American West. Rather than retelling familiar frontier mythology, Cunningham asks more personal questions that history often leaves unanswered. What was in her pockets? What occupied her thoughts while cattle drives were happening? How did she build a life? “My landscape is internal,” Cunningham says. “What kind of stories can be told?” Opposite Smaller Image: Fiber artist Beth Cunningham transforms cloth, thread and handmade paper into works shaped by personal history.

Cunningham's sculptural dresses blur the line between clothing and fine art, using familiar silhouettes to explore identity, memory and transformation.

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Beth Cunningham @BELLABETHV Born in Connellsville, Pennsylvania, Cunningham has spent a lifetime working at the intersection of art, textiles and education. She earned degrees in Clothing and Textiles from Virginia Tech and Studio/ Fine Art from the University of Houston before dedicating 42 years to public education. Continuing studies in Italy, Canada and the United States further shaped her practice in textiles, fibers and printmaking. Cunningham has exhibited nationally and internationally, earning numerous awards while also teaching embroidery, appliqué, beading and textile techniques. Now based in Kerrville, her work continues to explore storytelling through cloth, paper and stitch while drawing from generations of artistic tradition, historical research and personal experience. Where to see more: www.bethcunningham.com

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

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