Portland, ME September 2026 by City Lifestyle

The Style Issue LI F E + C U LTU R E

IZZ Y LEE' S IS A M AIN E CH ILDREN' S BRAN D WITH H E ART S T Y LE + B E AU T Y

J ESSI CA CAN DAGE PROVES ST YLE IS LESS ABOUT TREN DS AN D M O RE ABOUT TRUTH

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capozzaflooring.com

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oldporttile.com

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In collaboration with YFI Custom Homes | Duquette + Company Inc. | Rob Karosis Photography

Discovering wealth solutions to empower your best life. Great Diamond Partners — an independent, locally owned wealth management firm serving individuals, families, and organizations — delivers comprehensive financial planning, investment strategy, and client-focused service rooted in integrity, compassion, and deep community engagement.

“Our firm is proud to be locally owned and operated. Being deeply rooted in the community allows us to provide a personal touch that larger, corporate firms often can’t match.” Helen Andreoli Managing Partner

Learn more and schedule a discovery session. GREATDIAMONDPARTNERS.COM

Official Partner

22 Monument Square, Suite 300 Portland, Maine 04101 (207) 274-2500

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Living in Style

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Emily Harradon | emily.harradon@citylifestyle.com

"You never know unless you try. Just go for it." That's Jessica Candage's advice on personal style as well as how to move through life—and she should know. The born and raised Mainer and former American Idol contestant took a chance and is making it big in Nashville. She's now a highly sought-after hair and makeup artist and is responsible for helping some of the biggest names in music (Noah Cyrus, Lainey Wilson, Megan Moroney, et al.) show off their personal style in their latest videos or on stage. That got me thinking about what "style" truly means—not simply in regards to personal style but also when designing and leading a life that feels unique, intentional, and unmistakably our own. We're featuring Candage alongside a few Maine brands that embody the "Just go for it" ethos in this year's Style issue. Continue reading to learn the inspiring story behind Izzy Lee's clothing for babies and children, and to discover why North Optical is the go-to spot in Portland for specs you won't find anywhere else. As you flip through these pages, we hope you're reminded that style isn't just about following trends. It comes from being bold enough to live authentically. So whether you're simply considering a new pair of glasses or a whole new career, we encourage you take Candage's advice, and just go for it.

E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Rebecca Abramson rebecca.abramson@citylifestyle.com

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz

E M I LY H A R R A D O N , P U B L I S H E R @PORTLAND.CITYLIFESTYLE

CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Zach Miller LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Portland City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Portland 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 Portland City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INTRODUCING

The Intervale Extension Table The Intervale Table features a clean, purposeful design in solid American hardwood, suited for everyday meals and larger gatherings. Self-storing leaves allow easy expansion while maintaining a refined, uncluttered look—built for a lifetime at home.

149 MAIN STREET FREEPORT, ME THOSMOSER.COM 207 813 2608

Finally. Relief That Actually Lasts Activate your own body's natural healing process

There's a reason patients from all over Southern Maine are making their way to Active Chiropractic in Saco. We're Maine's first clinical provider of SoftWave Therapy — a non-invasive, FDA-cleared technology that triggers your body's natural healing at the source. No needles, no surgery, no downtime. Patients nationwide are reporting relief from chronic pain, improved mobility, and reclaimed active lifestyles. Could you be a candidate?

SoftWave reaches deep into damaged tissue using acoustic waves — stimulating healing at the cellular level with no injections and no downtime.

Don't let pain win. Contact Active Chiropractic and ask about SoftWave Therapy. Your relief could be one appointment away. Dr. Brent Reiche

www.activechiropractor.com | 207-571-8028 | 331 North St, Saco, ME 04072 S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

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

24 Featured

20 24

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Hidden in Plain Sight

The thoughtful details behind one of Maine’s most meaningful children’s brands

Good Looks

Portland’s favorite independent optical shop is helping customers discover eyewear with personality

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

City List

Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Trend Setter STYLE + BEAUTY

Gear Guide BEAUTY

Events

Homegrown Confidence

Jessica Candage proves individuality never goes out of fashion

On the Cover Izzy Lee’s patterns feature Maine-centric motifs like lobsters, sailboats, and moose with rainbows hidden throughout. Photography: Zack Bowen

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.

Home Loans Made Personal. A relationship-first approach built on education, transparency and communication.

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A Top 10 Maine Lender and repeat Presidents Club winner. Email Cynthia to learn more about her first time home buyer and women's home buying courses. New American Funding • 207-712-3598 www.newamericanfunding.com/mortgage-loans/cynthiaveroneau Equal Housing Opportunity. This is not a loan commitment or guarantee of any kind. Terms and conditions apply. Subject to borrower and property qualifications. Not all applicants will qualify. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. All mortgage loan products are subject to credit and property approval. © 2026 New American Funding, LLC. NMLS #6606. nmlsconsumeraccess.org. 1 MacArthur Place, Suite 800, Santa Ana, CA 92707 newamericanfunding.com. (800) 450-2010

SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

PORTLAND OVATIONS

@OPESTATIONARY

5 @CHAPPYWRAP

@CAPOZZAFLOORCOVERINGCENTER

@MARQUISMAINE

PETER LOGUE AT TAILWIND MEDIA

@SALUDPORTLAND

1: Lexi Zavala stands outside Ope! A Stationary Shop, which she recently opened with her husband Zach St. Clair. 2: Attendees celebrate the arts at Portland Ovations’ season reveal. 3: Drake and Christina Livada reflect on 20 years of Chappywrap at the company’s anniversary bash. 4: Showroom manager Sarah Nutt is recognized as the first Capozza Values Champion. 5: Keith Briggs performs at Sunday Funkday at The Marquis. 6: The Side x Side team poses together at the organization’s annual ART Deck-O fundraiser. 7: Salud’s DJ Pilates Sculpt with @move.with.paigeee and @dj_mus_.

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 @ P O R T L A N D . C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E /

C I T Y SC E N E

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Back Bay Builders is a locally owned residential and commercial construction company that has proudly served the greater Portland area since 2005. With over 20 years of experience, Back Bay Builders provides exceptional service throughout the life of the project, from planning through completion.

www.backbaybuilders.com | 207-232-1247

Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of. Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you? Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an intro.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

AN INTIMATE, INCLUSIVE WELLNESS CENTER AND MEDICAL SPA 163 FORE STREET FLOOR 2 PORTLAND, ME 04101

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

Winslow Homer Exhibition at PMA Winslow Homer: Painter, Etcher offers a rare look at a lesser-known chapter of the iconic American artist's career. On view through Oct. 18 at the Portland Museum of Art, the exhibition pairs Homer's masterful etchings with related paintings, drawings, and proofs, revealing how his Prouts Neck studio shaped some of his most celebrated works. Timed-entry tickets are required for all visitors. (Pictured: “The North Woods” by Winslow Homer, courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

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Café Luna Joins the Scarborough Downs Scarborough favorite Café Luna is headed to The Downs, where owner Juliann Joy plans to open a larger café in spring 2027. The new Town Center location will feature expanded indoor-outdoor seating, improved parking, and the same lineup of smoothies, bowls, sandwiches, and toasts that have made the café a local favorite.

Resurgam American Folktales and Hymns

Wild Heart Healthcare x Root to Rise Root to Rise Studio & Wellness is expanding its Scarborough wellness collective this fall with the addition of Wild Heart Healthcare. Founded by Anna Mead, FNP-C, and Katie Riley, CNM, WHNP, the practice specializes in menopause and reproductive health, offering compassionate, whole-person care backed by more than 40 years of combined clinical experience.

TICKETS from $34 SEPTEMBER 27 l 2:30 PM SEPTEMBER 29 l 7 PM

Eckart Preu, Music Director ChoralART Masterworks PSO Children’s Chorus

How do you capture the essence of home? Open the PSO’s 102nd season with Resurgam, featuring Fire!, a new work inspired by Portland’s Great Fire of 1866, tracing the city’s remarkable journey from devastation to renewal. Celebrate Portland’s past—and the resilience that defines our community. Dates, programs, and offerings are subject to change.

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l e v a r T

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with someone you trust

Precision Dental Opens Its Doors in Falmouth

AAA Travel Advisors can customize and curate a vacation especially for you.

Precision Dental has opened in Falmouth, bringing advanced, patient-centered dental care to the community. Led by prosthodontist Dr. Vincent Basha, the practice combines cutting-edge digital technology with restorative, cosmetic, and implant dentistry in a modern setting designed to make appointments personalized for every patient.

• Exclusive member-only offers and benefits • Knowledge and expertise to save you time, money, and hassle • Personalized customer service at your fingertips before, during, and after your trip

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CALL: 866-883-4985 | CLICK: AAA.com/TravelHelp | VISIT: Your Local AAA Branch Certain restrictions may apply. Rates, terms, conditions, availability, itinerary, taxes, fees, surcharges, deposit, payment, cancellation terms/conditions & policies subject to change without notice at any time. Advance reservations through AAA Travel required to obtain Member Benefits & savings which may vary based on departure date. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Your local AAA club acts as an agent for cruise & tour providers. CST 1016202-80. To learn how we collect and use your information, visit the privacy link at AAA.com. ©2025 Auto Club Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ PORTLANDME

WHEN YOUR CHILD STRUGGLES, YOU FEEL IT TOO!

The meltdowns. The Stress. The Sleepless Nights. The constant searching for answers.

There is a path forward. Let’s find it together!

Norway Savings Bank Invests in Little Learners

HOPE ANSWERS HELP

Norway Savings Bank has pledged $25,000 to support Youth and Family Outreach's expansion of its Portland child care center. The project will double capacity to 110 children while adding more affordable infant and toddler spaces, helping address one of the region's most pressing workforce and family needs. The six-story building, which is expected to open in 2028, will also include 60 housing units.

Because true health begins in the nervous system – especially in children!

TREE OF LIFE CHIROPRACTIC 73 Bell Street, Portland, ME

www.treeoflifechiros.com. 207.536.0426 |

Dean’s Sweets

Kim Huard Joins Portside Real Estate Group Kim Huard has joined Portside Real Estate Group as a sales agent, adding her expertise to a team known for their local reputation and genuine commitment to clients and community. With a background in both marketing and financial services, Huard brings a strategic lens and analytical approach to the real estate process and is excited to help clients make confident and smart decisions. Photography by Judy Beedle Photography

Maine Made Turn to Dean’s Sweets for Your Corporate Gifting This Holiday Season “We have been flooded with emails about your gorgeous chocolate! Thank you!” -Stroudwater Capital Partners

Place your holiday corporate gifting order by September 30th for 10% OFF

PICKS FOR

BER

’S TOP

BU S NE

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

CITY LIST

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the

R OU

Best Home Decor Store Home Remedies homeremediesmaine.com | 207.899.0135 Angela Adams angelaadams.com | 207.774.3523 Old Port Specialty Tile oldporttile.com | 207.775.2238 Viand Mercantile viandmercantile.com | 207.747.4066 Evangeline Linens evangelinelinens.com | 207.536.0131

Best Vintage Stores Open House openhouseportland.com | 207.805.1027 Material Objects instagram.com/materialobjectsme | 207.774.1241

Want to suggest a monthly pick? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/PORTL ANDME

C I T Y LIST

Monstera Vintage Decor monsteravintagedecor.com | 207.747.1847 Little Ghost Vintage littleghostvintage.com | 207.773.8290 Weekend Vintage shopweekendvintage.com | 207.232.4534

LOCAL AGENTS

EXPERT ADVICE 180 Waterman Dr Suite 2B South Portland, ME 04106 (207) 482-2202

AFFORDABLE LUXURY

NXGenFitness.com

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HIDDEN IN

Plain Sight The thoughtful details behind one of Maine’s most meaningful children’s brands

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZACK BOWEN

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

When Sarah Piasecki and her sister Christine Bitetti set out to create Izzy Lee's, they weren't fashion designers. One worked in commercial real estate, the other was a physician assistant. They were just two sisters, home during the uncertainty of the pandemic, searching for a way to transform unimaginable loss into something that could bring comfort, beauty, and hope to other families. Izzy Lee's was born after Piasecki lost her daughter, Izzy, at birth, with the sisters creating the brand as a way to celebrate her life while supporting other families navigating their own journeys to parenthood. "We wanted to honor her in some way and turn our heartache into something positive," Piasecki says. Six years later, their Maine-based children's brand has grown into a thoughtfully curated collection of organic cotton clothing, blankets, and baby essentials inspired by the place they call home. From playful lobsters and sailboats to woodland creatures and coastal color palettes, every pattern feels unmistakably Maine. Look closely at an Izzy Lee's print and you’ll notice rainbows tucked among the trees or woven into a nautical scene. They're intentionally subtle, less of a design statement and more of a quiet discovery. Rather than covering every collection in obvious rainbow motifs, Piasecki wanted the symbol to remain deeply personal. For some families, it represents a rainbow baby after pregnancy loss. For others, it reflects a long road to parenthood through IVF, adoption, or other unexpected journeys. Hidden within cheerful children's prints, the rainbows are a small reminder of resilience that means something different to everyone who finds them. While the meaning behind the brand runs deep, the clothes themselves are designed for everyday childhood. Soft jogger sets, cozy sleepers, striped pocket tees, and mix-and-match separates are made from organic cotton that's durable enough for playground adventures but soft enough for afternoon naps. It's a practical collection with an elevated aesthetic, offering pieces parents actually want to dress their children in without sacrificing comfort. CONTINUED >

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Creating those collections is a collaborative process that starts, fittingly, with Maine. Piasecki and Bitetti begin by gathering inspiration, building mood boards filled with colors, landscapes, and textures before working with a children's apparel designer to bring their ideas to life. One season might draw from the rocky coastline, another from the quiet woods that define so much of the state. The goal isn't to create souvenir clothing but rather to capture the feeling of growing up here. Asked where she finds inspiration, Piasecki points to the coast. "The beaches and the ocean," she says. "Being on a boat. I love the rocky coast." It's easy to see that influence throughout the collection, particularly in favorites like the Casco Bay striped pocket tee, a playful nod to the state's iconic shoreline that feels just as appropriate on a family vacation as it does at the neighborhood playground. Like many small businesses, Izzy Lee's has evolved considerably since its earliest days. The sisters initially manufactured their products in the United States before partnering with a production team in Sri Lanka to keep quality high while making the business sustainable. Throughout the transition, one priority never changed: maintaining the exceptionally soft organic cotton fabrics customers have come to expect. Piasecki hopes families see each piece as more than another outfit destined for the laundry basket. She thinks about the first swaddle, the outfit worn home from the hospital, the pajamas saved long after they've been outgrown. Those everyday

IZZY LEE’S

IZZY LEES.COM

Designed in Maine, Izzy Lee’s collections are available online and at Hatch in Brunswick, with additional New England retail partnerships on deck. The organic cotton line includes baby essentials, sleepers, jogger sets, and children’s apparel featuring the brand’s signature coastal and woodland-inspired prints.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

“Those first moments with y o u r b a b y fe e l so important. I want our clothing to fe e l j u s t a s special and m e m o r a b l e .”

items become keepsakes because of the memories attached to them. "I wanted the clothing and the blankets and everything to feel like those moments that are so special and memorable," she says. That philosophy has resonated with customers, many of whom have reached out to share their own stories. "I've connected with countless women over the years who've gone through something similar," she says. "That was really the hope in starting Izzy Lee's—to make people feel less alone." As Izzy Lee's continues to grow, the sisters are dreaming up new prints, dresses, pajamas for older kids, and expanded retail partnerships throughout New England. Every new collection is guided by the same philosophy that inspired the first: beautiful, Maine-made memories stitched together with quiet details and a little more meaning than meets the eye.

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GOOD L OOK S PORTLAND’S FAVORITE INDEPENDENT OPTICAL SHOP IS HELPING CUSTOMERS DISCOVER EYEWEAR WITH PERSONALITY

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOEL TSUI

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

There are two kinds of people who shop for glasses. The first walks in with a screenshot, a Pinterest board, and absolute certainty they need small tortoiseshell frames. The second shrugs and says, "I have no idea." According to Chris Wheaton of North Optical, the second group usually has more fun. “If you want to have a good time, we’re going to have a great time,” he laughs.

Wheaton’s playful personality and keen sense of style make his Washington Ave shop feel so different from a traditional optical store. Sure, you'll leave seeing more clearly, but you'll also leave with something far more personal: a pair of glasses that feels like an extension of who you are. For starters, forget the online quizzes that tell you what frame suits a square face or a heart-shaped jawline. Choosing a good pair is "90 percent vibes," Wheaton says matter-of-factly. “You should wear what makes you happy. To me, that’s the most important thing.” That's not to say expertise doesn't matter. After nearly two decades in the optical industry, Wheaton knows every technical detail that goes into fitting a great pair of glasses. But once the measurements are done, intuition takes over. A conversation can reveal more than a face shape ever could. How do you dress? What makes you feel confident? Do you want your glasses to disappear or become the first thing people notice? Sometimes the answer surprises even the customer. "The best pair is often something they never would've picked themselves," Wheaton says. That's why his biggest piece of advice is just to be open. Try the bright color, the unexpected shape, or the frame you almost put back on the shelf. After all, Wheaton himself sports fluorescent pink round glasses, which is exactly the opposite of what traditional styling "rules" would recommend. They're also the pair that earns him the most compliments.

At North Optical, rules are made to be questioned, and that philosophy extends well beyond the fitting table. Every brand in the shop is independently owned, and nearly every collection is exclusive in Maine. Wheaton seeks out the artists, makers, and small companies pushing eyewear design forward, which means several lines even made their U.S. debut at North Optical before appearing anywhere else. "The people we're working with are the creative energy in the industry," he says. "They're the ones everyone else copies." When asked to define Portland style, Wheaton laughs, eventually landing somewhere between "L.L.Bean and Rudy Jude." It’s practical, creative, and understated. A little outdoorsy, a little artsy. Local sensibility is important when stocking the shop, and even brands Wheaton personally loves (like a recent favorite offering futuristic frames) don't make the cut if they don't feel right for the community. His retail pet peeve? The phrase "best seller." "I don't want the best seller," he says. "I want what's best for you." CONTINUED >

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Chris’s Style Cheat Sheet Frame everyone should try once: Round Color people should stop avoiding: Fluorescent pink Most underrated frame material: 3D-printed Current trend you’re unexpectedly loving: ‘90s-inspired sport frames That might mean a handcrafted Japanese frame, an architectural design from Europe, or a classic tortoiseshell P3 shape you'll wear for years. It might even mean a pair of wedding glasses—something North Optical has become known for—chosen to complement a dress, a suit, or a favorite piece of jewelry on one of life's biggest days. "Glasses are the first thing people see on your face," Wheaton says. His hope is that customers leave North Optical feeling exactly as he puts it: “stoked” to show off their new frames and head out into the world with a little more confidence than when they walked in.

One classic you’ll never stop recommending: A tortoiseshell P3 (Panto) frame One eyewear myth to ignore: Don’t let the frame size numbers dictate your choice. They’re useful for opticians, not for deciding what looks best on you. Best advice for first-time shoppers: Come in with an open mind. The pair you never expected to love might be the one you leave wearing.

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

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HOM E GROW N

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

J e s s i c a C a n d a g e p r ove s i n d i v i d u a l i t y n e ve r g o e s out of fashion ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT PARTS OF YOUR MAINE UPBRINGING SHAPED WHO YOU ARE TODAY?

I started pursuing makeup and music while still living in Maine. The support from the community was always huge for me, and I still feel it living in Nashville. I hope to make my Maine people proud! Mainers are so loyal and kind, and I bring that into my world everyday. CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/P O RT L A N D M E

WHEN YOU COME HOME TO MAINE, WHAT FEELS INSTANTLY FAMILIAR OR INSPIRING?

When I come home, I have to grab an Amato’s ham Italian and an Aroma Joe's coffee. I always go for a walk through Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park with my sister—that immediately makes me feel like I’m home.

MAINE HAS A REPUTATION FOR UNDERSTATED STYLE. DO YOU THINK THAT INFLUENCED YOUR OWN AESTHETIC?

My style is the opposite of understated! I love a ring on every finger, plus earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and belts. I think it’s important to be yourself no matter where you live.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG CREATIVES IN MAINE WHO DREAM OF BUILDING CAREERS IN FASHION, BEAUTY, OR MUSIC?

Never stop, no matter how hard it feels. With social media these days, it’s easier than ever to be seen. Post your work publicly, and don’t worry about how people perceive you.

MANY PEOPLE FIRST MET YOU THROUGH AMERICAN IDOL. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT CONFIDENCE AND PERSONAL STYLE?

Just go for it, whatever it is, because you never know unless you try.

MUSIC AND BEAUTY ARE BOTH FORMS OF SELF-EXPRESSION. HOW DO THOSE TWO CREATIVE OUTLETS COMPLEMENT ONE ANOTHER FOR YOU?

I think that music is universally the best form of emotion. No matter the language, music has the power to move people. Makeup, on the other hand, is more of a confidence boost. The smallest amount of makeup can make someone feel their absolute best, but it’s not as necessary as music. In my mind, music is medicine; makeup is an accessory.

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

WHAT DREW YOU TO NASHVILLE, AND WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT THE CITY'S CREATIVE COMMUNITY?

There are no rules! It’s your life, and you only get one, so do whatever makes you happy.

I was terrified to leave Maine, because it's always been so good to me, but moving to Nashville was one of the best things to ever happen to me. The city is filled with so many creatives in so many different forms, and it’s just so inspiring to be around. It’s a community of people just trying to make it.

WHICH BEAUTY OR STYLE TRENDS DO YOU THINK HAVE REAL STAYING POWER?

WHAT'S A TYPICAL WORKDAY LIKE FOR YOU IN NASHVILLE?

WHAT PRODUCTS OR TECHNIQUES DO YOU FIND YOURSELF RECOMMENDING OVER AND OVER?

A typical work day for me is usually a full day on set for a music video or a photo shoot. They tend to start very early—like 4 a.m.—and don't finish until midnight. The days are long, but it’s so fulfilling to see a beautiful creation come together.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE IN THREE WORDS? Extra, loud, and chaotic.

WHAT'S ONE BEAUTY "RULE" YOU THINK PEOPLE SHOULD STOP FOLLOWING?

I don’t believe in trends, I believe in the basics. I’ve lasted 21 years in the industry because I’m able to hone in on what each individual needs for their own personal style.

Skin prep is the most important part of makeup, always and forever. It’s the canvas.

IN A WORLD OF FILTERS AND AI, HOW DO YOU ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO EMBRACE AUTHENTICITY?

Being your authentic self will always be your best and truest form. I used to be ashamed of where I came from, and now I realize it’s my connection to other people just like me. The best thing for you, and for the world, is to be yourself and tell your story—you never know who it could help.

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Nonglack Thanephonesy Owner & Head Chef

Your go-to spot for the mouth-watering foods of Thailand’s bustling night markets. Join us Monday through Friday for Happy Hour from 3:30pm to 5pm featuring a variety of Dollar Dumplings and specialty cocktails!

dokmalimaine.com | 207-536-7119 | 47 India Street, Portland, ME

The Art of a Truly Integrated Home

RESIDENCE BY JUNIPER DESIGN + BUILD

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Northern New England’s Premier Integration Company... Serving Discerning Homeowners since 1990 tuckerandtucker.com | 636 US Route 1, Scarborough, ME | 207-885-0059 | info@tuckerandtucker.com

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ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Wear Colors That Truly

LOVE YOU A quick guide to finding flattering shades for life.

KNOW YOUR UNDERTONE Your undertone doesn’t change with the seasons. Check your wrist veins: blue means cool, green means warm, and unclear may be neutral. Cool tones love jewel colors; warm tones glow in earthy, rich shades.

CONSIDER CONTRAST Do you have high contrast between your hair, skin, and eyes (like dark hair and light skin)? High contrast looks great in bold, clear colors. Low contrast (like blonde hair and fair skin)? Softer, blended tones often suit you best.

THE WHITE VS. CREAM TEST Hold a white and ivory shirt near your face. If white flatters, you're likely cooltoned. If ivory glows against your skin, you're likely warm-toned. This quick test reveals your undertone with ease.

BUILD AROUND YOUR “WOW” COLORS Once you identify a few colors that make you look and feel amazing, use those as the base of your palette. These are your power colors—build your wardrobe and makeup around them!

PRO TIP You don’t have to follow rules perfectly. Your color palette is a guide, not a limit. Mix, match, and most importantly—wear what makes you feel beautiful.

G E A R GU ID E | BEAUTY

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SEPTEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

SE PT E M BE R 4 T H

Portland Yacht Rock Festival Aura | 8:00 PM Set sail for a night of smooth grooves at the third annual Yacht Rock Festival. Local favorites SHIP to SHORE will perform timeless hits from Christopher Cross, Fleetwood Mac, Toto, Michael McDonald, and more, delivering two sets of breezy singalongs that keep summer vibes afloat. SE PT E M BE R 6T H

Ghostland Thompson's Point | 5:00 PM After a four-year hiatus, beloved Maine folk-rock band The Ghost of Paul Revere returns for Ghostland, a one-day music festival celebrating its long-awaited hometown reunion. Along with the headlining performance, enjoy sets by Futurebirds, Weakened Friends, Mikaela Davis, and more. SE PT E M BE R 1 7 T H

Coastal Imaginings: Artist Panel Discussion Portland Museum of Art | 6:00 PM Go beyond the gallery with an engaging conversation featuring artists Patricia Brace, Ethan Murrow, and Joshua Reiman. Hear firsthand about the ideas, creative processes, and coastal inspirations behind Coastal Imaginings, followed by an audience Q&A. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H

Maine Poutinefest Thompson's Point | 12:00 PM Find french fries, cheese curds, gravy, and endless creativity at Maine PoutineFest. Come hungry and enjoy unlimited poutine samples from top restaurants, local craft beer, live music, and family-friendly fun, then participate in People's Choice voting for the best of the fest. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H

Bellefest Belleflower Brewing | 12:00 PM Spend the afternoon at Belleflower Brewing's annual Bellefest, featuring craft beer, live music, and an all-star local food lineup. Grab bites from Highroller and Gunnar's Hot Dogs while enjoying a laid-back celebration of community. SE PT E M BE R 2 4 T H

Portland Career Fair Holiday Inn by the Bay | 9:30 AM Looking for your next opportunity? Meet face-to-face with recruiters from employers across healthcare, technology, education, manufacturing, finance, and more. Bring copies of your résumé, dress professionally, and make valuable connections at this free networking and hiring event.

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