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I love the theme for this month’s issue - Fashion and Style! Fashion and style express who we are, what type of personality we have. It’s not just how we dress, but how we decorate our homes, how we present our faces to the world, what music we like, what art we choose. There are so many ways that we can express our own unique fashion and style.
This month’s issue presents some of the fashion and style that is present here in Littleton. From luxury consignment, to french antiques, to premium beauty services, to a renowned milliner and female entrepreneur from the late nineteenth century.
I grew up in Connecticut and spent a great deal of time in New York. Fashion and style is always at the forefront in New York’s culture. I was influenced by this, and by my mother, a tried and true New Yorker. She had worked for the publication Women’s Wear Daily, which was considered the “Bible of Fashion”, back in the day. I have always been keenly aware of how I present myself to the world and what style I have. I love to express my individual personality in this way.
I encourage everyone to think of style as an authentic expression of themselves. The most beautiful style is one that reflects who you truly are—your passions, your story, your individuality. And the incredible thing is that no one else in the world can replicate that.
I hope you all are inspired by this issue to seek out your favorite fashion and style outlets in your own communities and to explore some of the unique fashion and style in Littleton!
ELISE LUTER, PUBLICATION
DIRECTOR
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Elizabeth Watson | elizabeth.watson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Elise Luter | elise.luter@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
J.D. McCrumb
MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR
Joe Kroog
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Korri Lundock, Elise Luter, J.D. McCrumb, Elizabeth Watson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brent Andeck, Mike Larremore, Littleton Museum, Sandy Puc Photography, Chris W
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs
Sylvaine’s
The success of the 97th Western Welcome Week is because of your generosity!
This year’s theme, “The Spirit of Generosity,” captured the heart of what makes Littleton so special — the kindness, compassion, and community-minded spirit of its residents. Western Welcome Week thanks everyone that came together to make this year’s event such a success.
Thank you to our Grand Sponsors, Community Partners, Sponsors, Volunteers, Vendors, and our community members - you are what makes Western Welcome Week amazing!
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Western Welcome Week has been a Littleton tradition for 97 years. This year’s event kicked off in style with That Eighties Band drawing a crowd to celebrate the event packed celebration. 1: 2025 Western Welcome Week Grand Marshals Cathy Weaver, Tim Weaver, and Jake Weaver. 3: Event entertainment - That Eighties Band lead singer and bassist Travis LeRoy. 4: Squiggy the miniature pony looking very stylish with his hat. With equine specialist Aubree Seibel. 5: Western Welcome Week Executive Director, Cindy Hathaway with Board of Directors member Kellie Giesen. 7: Western Welcome Week Board of Directors with event emcee Dave Law.
Photography | Stacey Stonehocker
Lash + Company is partnering with Littleton City Lifestyle for an event on September 25th from 4 to 6 PM at 8500 West Bowles Ave, Suite 207.
The evening will feature food, drinks, a photo booth, giveaways, and live demos. Their most popular services will be showcased, including lash lifts and tints, microneedling, and more! Give aways include lash, skin, and brow services. It’s the perfect opportunity for both new and current clients to experience treatments they may not have tried yet.
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For those seeking a mix of trendy and timeless pieces, Ruby Jane’s curated apparel and accessories are now available in the heart of Historic Downtown.
Sandy Helt is the creator and visionary behind Ruby Jane + Valleygirl Boutique. She is a fashion-forward thinker who has brought style, one store at a time, to Colorado's mountain town women. It is a family run business, now available in downtown Littleton! RubyJane.com
In our August issue, we incorrectly stated the address for Littleton Massage & Sports Recovery. As of September 1, 2025 the NEW location will be open at 5935 South Zang Street, Unit 6, Littleton, CO 80123. Our apologies for the mistake! Their new location will offer more room to relax, with a larger lobby, a cozy tea bar, and upgraded massage rooms. More details available at LittletonMSR.com
Sylvaine's French Antiques & Collectibles - Bringing Old World Charm and Expert Craftsmanship to Littleton
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH WATSON
“Most if not all of the wood that is present on my sales floor is hundreds and hundreds of years old. In terms of quality, durability, and beauty – these old trees and handcrafted pieces are unparalleled.”
— Sylvaine Hughson
Stepping through the doors of Sylvaine’s French Antiques & Collectibles at Aspen Grove, it is easy to feel as if you have been transported back in time. All five senses soak in the charm and the beauty of the atmosphere. There’s classical music playing softly in the background. The faintest scent of maybe lavender or possibly vanilla fills the air, and there is often a selection of French artisan created jams and candies set out for sampling. The visual impact of the carefully curated showroom is a combination of beautiful, handcrafted pieces as well as an assortment of precious and delicate collectibles.
Sylvaine Hughson, the owner, explains what she believes contributes to the unique atmosphere of her store. She says, “Most if not all of the wood that is present on my sales floor is hundreds and hundreds of years
old. In terms of quality, durability, and beauty – these old trees and handcrafted pieces are unparalleled.”
She continues, “These pieces are like a magical bridge through time – when you are in my shop and you place your hands on a furniture item, or decorative accessory, you are very likely touching the same spot that an individual many years ago, dressed in a dramatically different fashion, would have done while connecting with their surroundings.”
In addition to the larger handcrafted furniture pieces, Hughson’s shop also offers a variety of collectible European vintage items such as barware, crystal stemware, and decanters as well as a plethora of great gift ideas, including jewelry.
Feel good businesses are a rare offering and Hughson feels deeply honored that her shop
CONTINUED >
Top: British George IV period silver samovar possibly “Sheffield,” circa 1820 - 1840.
Bottom: A customer browsing. New inventory arrivals weekly.
Opposite Page: Chairs - antique English George III hand carved walnut, circa 17851800. Table - Antique English Regency flamed mahogany dining table, circa 1815 - 1830.
Grand buffet - antique French Henry II style, hand carved walnut, circa 1890 - 1910.
supports 65 artisans and master craftsmen in fueling their vision and art forms. An example of this are her Organic Hand Loomed Chenille and Velour throws that are custom created by highly experienced weavers with all natural plant dyes in traditional styles and using techniques that are over 400 years old.
One of her regular customers, Charlynne B, says, “What a fabulous day it was when I discovered this jewel in Littleton’s crown! This store is absolutely worth a visit. Sylvaine has created a lovely place to browse and procure incredible French and European items of elegance, beauty and charm that would make any home special. Visiting this store is like transporting yourself to a French chateaux or estate without leaving the States. Warning: You too will be enticed to purchase a treasure that you just can’t do without. In short, Sylvaine’s just might become your new ‘happy place’. It certainly has become mine.”
“My customers regularly tell me that my shop feels like a sanctuary to them - they feel inspired to slow down, relax, and come home to themselves,” Hughson says.
Enjoying the experience, having fun, is an important element of Hughson’s approach as a business owner. She creates an invitation to linger and discover - you are very much encouraged to take your time as you wander through the aisles and pause whenever something new or exceptionally beautiful catches your eye.
Customer Jennifer I. describes it this way, “I fell in love with this shop the first time I went in. The
“She encourages questions, loves discussing the history behind the pieces in her store, and is dedicated to ensuring these irreplaceable items are preserved and appreciated. Prepare to be transported and inspired.”
staff and the owner, Sylvaine, were incredibly welcoming and helpful. I have enjoyed purchasing a variety of items - furniture, decorative items, dishes, several gorgeous mirrors - that have given my renovated spaces the character and warmth they needed. The shop also has a number of items that are from current artisans, including beautiful stationery, soaps, French preserves, and cookies. I have tried quite a number of them and have never been disappointed.”
In addition, Jennifer I. mentions another service that Sylvaine provides for her customers. She says, “I have also used Sylvaine’s design services in my home. She has helped me figure out where to place both items I purchased at her
store and family heirlooms. She has also helped me find the right piece for spaces that needed a finishing touch. The process has been incredibly fun and the results are beautiful. I cannot recommend the shop or Sylvaine’s design services highly enough!”
Hughson has created a destination showroom bringing expert craftsmanship and old world charm to the greater Littleton area. Her true gift is her ability to be genuinely welcoming. She encourages questions, loves discussing the history behind the pieces in her store, and is dedicated to ensuring these irreplaceable items are preserved and appreciated. Prepare to be transported and feel inspired.
More than 40 local restaurants showcasing what they do best! Participate Friday, September 5 through Sunday, September 14
Scan QR code for participating restaurants and details or visit LittletonBusinessChamber.org/Restaurant-Week
When it comes to beauty routines, I try to keep it simple. Recently, however, I became a fan of getting an eyelash lift and tint. I love it because it helps me to look more wide awake and I don’t have to put mascara on everyday. It is especially convenient when on a beach vacation!
There is a new Med Spa in Littleton whose slogan is “beauty simplified”, so I had to check it out. I talked with Amber Imiolo the new franchisee for Lash + Company.
I asked Imiolo why she became a franchisee with Lash + Company and what training she received. “With a background in business and the esthetics industry, I wanted to combine my experiences. Lash + Company was the perfect fit! They offer an incredible level of support, a strong community, and a proven business model.”
Imiolo continued, “Through Lash + Company’s franchise program, I completed comprehensive training that walked me through every step of opening and operating a med spa.”
Imiolo feels that Lash + Company stands out because they truly are a onestop shop for everything beauty and selfcare. They offer a broad range of services including lash extensions, lash lifts and tints, brow laminations, custom facials, microneedling, chemical peels, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, and spray tanning. Amber says their team of highly skilled estheticians also sets them apart. They plan to expand further by adding permanent makeup and Botox.
Imiolo states enthusiastically, “We’re more than just a med spa, we’re a place where beauty meets community, and where every visit feels like self-care with a purpose.”
Visit LashAndCompany.com/CO-Littleton and follow @lashandcompany_littleton for additional information on services as well as current specials.
Luxury Consignment Shop in Downtown Littleton Celebrates Vintage
ARTICLE BY K ELLESS PHOTOGRAPHY BY SANDY PUC PHOTOGRAPHY
Luxury and consignment may not necessarily be two words you immediately think should be in a sentence together. Rebekah Fisher, owner of True Find Boutique, has created a Littleton business that specializes in combining the two.
Fisher explains, “Vintage is valuable for its history, uniqueness, durability, and sustainability. Not only do you save money when purchasing vintage, you also save these beautiful pieces from landfills. Vintage allows you to create your own unique style that feels fresh and new while wearing a piece of history! Kind of an oxymoron!”
Fisher’s responses to a Littleton City Lifestyle (LCL) interview provide additional insight.
LCL: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED WITH FASHION, VINTAGE CLOTHING, AND STYLING?
Fisher: “I have loved fashion and vintage my whole life. I first discovered vintage at a young age due to necessity. I decided to put my passion for personal styling into action about twenty years ago. I learned all about dressing for my body type and not allowing size to define personal style.”
LCL: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE WHAT TRUE FIND’S SPECIALTY IS?
Fisher: “True Find enables me to provide a space where people can come to shop curated, vintage items in a refined boutique environment. My hope is to allow every shopper the opportunity for assistance in finding their own personal style or perhaps find that one amazing piece that will enable them to feel confident and inspired!”
LCL: DESIGNERS THAT YOU ESPECIALLY LOVE TO HAVE IN THE STORE?
Fisher: “There are endless designers to choose from that I could call my favorite. But a few that come to mind are Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Chanel. No matter the designer, I get excited when a unique and beautifully cared for piece comes into the store."
LCL: TRUE FIND COLLABORATES WITH TRUE TAILOR TO OFFER ON-SITE CUSTOM ALTERATIONS. DETAILS PLEASE?
Fisher: "David, pronounced Daveed, Lugo is a second-generation designer and master tailor whose journey began in Bogotá, Colombia, where his parents ran a beloved tailoring shop. At True Find he helps transform existing wardrobes into deeply personal, perfectly tailored pieces.
This dedication to craftsmanship and design complements True Find’s mission—empowering individuals through quality, fit, and timeless style.”
TrueFindBoutique.com
Bringing Trust Back to The Mechanic. Our mission is to fix your vehicle correctly the first time.
We take care of your vehicle like it is a part of your family. Being family owned and operated, our customer service is unmatched. We really listen to you and your needs. This way we can make sure your vehicle is fixed correctly so that we can insure your vehicle will stay on the road many, many miles to come. We have the certifications and experience needed to make sure the vehicles are fixed correctly the first time allowing us to be able to provide warranties and guaranties. We specialize in Mercedes Benz, BMW, and other luxury brands but, we can work on any vehicle you have as well.
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Hello Littleton friends and neighbors! I’m Raegan, and as a former police officer (of 12 years) turned Realtor, I’m passionate about serving those who serve Through Homes for Heroes, and in partnership with Your 303 Lending, we give back to first responders, military, and teachers in our community Steph and I would be honored to walk you through the process Let’s chat soon!
BEHIND THE SCENES FOR THE CREATION OF THE LITTLETON MUSEUM'S NEWEST EXHIBIT
It’s not just hats in glass cases; it’s crafting a narrative that pulls visitors in.
Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a recognized affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, Littleton Museum is a true treasure that shouldn’t be missed. A staple field trip destination for school kids throughout the region, the museum is, as those in the know say, “kind of a big deal.”
When the Littleton Museum first considered spotlighting Colorado hat maker Kate Ferretti, no one expected the story to grow so rich and layered. What began as a simple concept quickly blossomed into an ambitious exhibit filled with deep research, surprising discoveries, and a compelling narrative that brings her story vividly to life.
Sarah LaBarre, the museum’s Curator of Exhibits, shares how the exhibit came together. From the initial spark of inspiration to tracking down hats and stories, to making the design choices that bring Ferretti’s world to life, LaBarre offers insight into what it takes to build an exhibit that’s both educational and captivating.
The idea didn’t develop overnight. LaBarre explains it had been percolating nearly 18 months before the exhibit opened. Early on, the team recognized the potential to tell Ferretti’s story through the hats already in the museum’s collection.
As the team dug deeper, the project grew more complex—and fascinating. “At every turn, we learned something new about Kate,” LaBarre says.
It wasn’t just about the hats, but the life behind them—the family, challenges, and Denver’s early 20th-century history. What started as a simple exhibit turned into a deep dive requiring the entire museum team’s research, design, and creativity.
Starting with 12 hats, the collection expanded to 34 pieces loaned or donated from regional sources including
the Molly Brown House, the University of Denver, History Colorado, and Ferretti's grandson, a Littleton resident who contributed several family treasures.
LaBarre describes the painstaking process of sifting through archives, family records, and historical accounts to build a full picture. Ferretti wasn’t just a local hat maker—she was a first-generation Italian American whose father helped build the Colorado Capitol, a woman who learned to sew as a child, and a business owner who dressed an entire city for decades. The exhibit needed to reflect all these layers.
Once research was underway, the team focused on how to tell Ferretti’s story visually and experientially. It’s not just hats in glass cases; it’s crafting a narrative that pulls visitors in. Graphics, artifacts, and personal items come together to create an intimate portrait. Visitors get a chance to see the range of her work, from everyday hats to elaborate pieces made for society patrons like the legendary “Unsinkable” Molly Brown.
LaBarre shares that in-house exhibits like this take months of collaboration among researchers, curators, designers, educators, and facility staff.
Since opening in June, the Kate Ferretti exhibit has drawn positive regional attention, deepening appreciation for Colorado’s rich fashion and style heritage. LaBarre is proud of the exhibit’s success but already has her eye on the next project. “It’s always bittersweet to take an exhibit down,” she says, “but we’re excited for what’s next.”
Fortunately, this fabulous exhibit runs through April 19, 2026, offering a unique opportunity to explore the legacy of a true Colorado artisan and to experience the rich tapestry of the region’s past through the lens of her remarkable hats.
Starting with 12 hats, the collection expanded to 34 pieces loaned or donated from regional sources including the Molly Brown House.
Fashion Designer and Littleton Resident, Anne Fanganello, Custom Designs for Tennis, Golf, and Pickleball
Anne Fanganello is one of those people who grew up knowing what they wanted to do with their life. If someone had said to her when she was 10 years old, “You think you’re going to move to New York City and live a fancy life as a fashion designer?” She would have looked them dead in the eye and said, “Yep.”
If you’ve ever met Fanganello, you know she is fierce, confident, and wildly talented.
By the age of 15 she was working at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) making costumes.
“My mom had to drive me to work. Or I had to take the number fifteen bus down Colfax down to DCPA. I knew I had the ability to sew. I had the ability to alter things to fit people. So I really had a sense of confidence,” she recalls.
Fangenello moved to New York in 1988. She says, “I went there with two suitcases and a dream. I didn’t know anybody.”
Her first job as an intern was unpaid, but she gained valuable experience as a costume designer. “We did The Freshman with Matthew Broderick and Marlon Brando so I met both of them and fit them. We did Phantom of the Opera.”
Her time in New York included 11 years working for internationally-renowned designer Nanette Lepore.
“At the age of thirty three I was working at Nanette Lepore, I’d been there for maybe nine years at that time. I just was taking a shower one day and found a lump. It was very obvious to me that that was not normal.”
That began an eight year journey of treatments including chemotherapy, surgery, reconstructive surgery, and a 90 pound weight gain caused by medications.
During and after her battle with breast cancer, Fanganello continued to work. After leaving Nanette Lepore she worked with Zac Posen. Remembering that time Fanganello says, “We were instantly into runway shows, movie stars, even higher luxury level. Working crazy hours and loving it.”
But, whether it was the cancer battle or the effects of the continued required medication, Fanganello realized she needed a change and she decided to return to Colorado.
Always an avid skier, she says, “When they talk in your meditation, ‘Go to your favorite place.’ It is always the top of the mountain at Mary Jane. Sitting on a bench with a Coors Light in my hand looking out at the mountains with my ski boots propped up.”
Eventually, Fanganello started designing again. She started AnnaFesta with the intent of providing sportswear for plus size, or as Fanganello likes to say “curvy girls.”
In 2013, Fanganello and AnnaFesta won a Fashion Group International "Rising Star" award as the first Plus Size collection to show in the Women’s Ready to Wear category. This recognition showed that Plus Size should be shown side by side with all Women’s Ready to Wear. Fanganello is passionate that all
shapes and sizes belong in the Women’s Ready to Wear fashion group.
Fanganello never seems to be able to not be going 100 miles an hour, and has also created an additional line, Festa Sports, with a focus of creating activewear that fits well, looks fabulous, and functions even better!
“My specialty is fit. I fit the garments. I make sure they fit beautifully. My goal in life is whether you’re a size two or whether you’re a size twelve or a size twenty two, I make clothing that fits a body and looks good.”
It has been a journey. Fanganello has followed her dreams, faced adversity, and succeeded in staying true to her goals of providing exceptional design and styling for every single client.
From Fine Dining to Casual Eats This is the Week to Dig In
As Executive Director of the Littleton Business Chamber, I’m incredibly proud to invite you to the 3rd Annual Littleton Restaurant Week, taking place September 5–14, 2025!
This ten-day event is more than a celebration of great food—it’s a testament to the strength, creativity, and collaboration of our local hospitality community.
Let me share a bit of history. When we first launched the “Littleton Eatz” Restaurant/ Hospitality Committee, it wasn’t part of our original plans. In early 2023, one of our Chamber members came forward with a heartfelt case for why we needed a space for restaurant and hospitality businesses to connect, support one another, and grow. She not only made a compelling case—she stepped up to lead the effort. That’s how “Littleton Eatz” was born in February 2023. What started as a way for businesses to share vendor tips, support each other through tough times, and collaborate on best practices quickly grew into something more. By May 2023, our members began exploring ways to boost business and create
a community-wide event that would spotlight the incredible culinary talent across Littleton. That’s when Littleton Restaurant Week came to life.
What makes our event different from others is that we don’t impose a fixed menu price or a uniform theme. Instead, we ask each participating business to showcase what they do best—to highlight the unique flavors, dishes, and experiences that make them special. That approach brings out the best of Littleton’s diverse food scene, and it makes exploring old favorites or discovering new spots truly exciting.
Littleton Restaurant Week is proudly supported by the Littleton Business Chamber, and reflects our mission to uplift local businesses, strengthen connections, and bring our community together.
So come join us! Enjoy special menus, exclusive discounts, and one-of-a-kind food-and-beverage experiences across Littleton’s vibrant restaurant, café, bar, and tea/coffee shop scene.
Let’s support local. Let’s celebrate together. Let’s taste what Littleton is all about.
Let’s support local. Let’s celebrate together. Let’s taste what Littleton is all about.
SEPTEMBER 5TH - 14TH
Littleton Restaurant Week
Participating Littleton Restaurants | 9:00 AM
Littleton Restaurant Week is a 10-day culinary showcase. Participating restaurants, bars, cafes, and tea or coffee shops across Littleton will feature special menus, discounts, and unique food-and-beverage experiences. Details and event information available at: LittletonBusinessChamber.org/Restaurant-Week
SEPTEMBER 6TH
Walk the Chalk Littleton
Main Street Littleton | 8:00 AM
The 3rd annual Chalk Art Festival features a variety of family-friendly, interactive activities. Enjoy live art demonstrations throughout the festival. Chalking begins at 8 a.m. and continues throughout the day. There will be live music along Main Street from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Dive into a world of creativity and inspiration in Historic Downtown Littleton! WalkTheChalkLittleton.com
SEPTEMBER 12TH
The BARBOX at Aspen Grove | 5:00 PM
Close out BARBOX's summer concert series with a boogie-filled bash featuring Boogie Machine! This high-energy disco tribute will have you dancing all night long to funky beats and feel-good anthems. Come dressed to impress—sparkles, bell-bottoms, and platform shoes welcome! There will be food trucks and BARBOX will be serving beer, wine, canned cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. AspenGroveCenter.com/Event
SEPTEMBER 13TH
Littleton Artisan Fair
Arapahoe Community College | 10:00 AM
Discover Colorado’s best at the Littleton Artisan Fair! Colorado Markets showcase the talents of dozens of handpicked, small-scale makers, bakers, artists, and boutiques across our state. Shop small and local while enjoying music and gourmet bites from food trucks and bakeries. Check the events schedule for details and upcoming dates and locations for markets across the Front Range! www.ColoradoMarkets.com
SEPTEMBER 24TH
Longer Tables Littleton
Historic Main Street Littleton | 5:00 PM
Organized by Lift Up Littleton, the Longer Tables Littleton event will feature a full dinner served along a 5,000-foot table which will be placed along Main Street. The goal of this special event is to bring a sense of connection and belonging to our community. You are invited to join the table! Tickets and additional information available at LongerTables.org/LiftUpLittleton
SEPTEMBER 27TH
Littleton Fall Festival
Clement Park - 7306 W Bowles Ave Littleton, CO 80123 | 11:00 AM
Bring your friends, family, and neighbors for a free festive autumn celebration in Clement Park. Located next to Grant Amphitheater and the Splash Pad. FREE pumpkins (while supplies last!), local vendors selling handcrafted goods, delicious eats from a variety of food trucks, a lively beer garden featuring local brews, music and entertainment, lawn games, bounce houses & more!
Local. Connected. Trusted. For 18 years, Scott Bemis served as President and Publisher of the Denver Business Journal, earning a reputation as a trusted connector in the
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