River Oaks, TX September 2023

SHOPPING GET A PEEK AT HOUSTON BRANDS' FASHIONABLE FALL COLLECTIONS

AUTO + MARINE

DISCOVER THE 2023 CORVETTE STINGRAY

STYLE + BEAUTY

TIP YOUR HAT TO THE LUCCHESE X CHRIS STAPLETON COLLABORATION

All Things Style

We are thrilled to present to you our latest issue, a celebration of creativity and innovation in the world of fashion, style, and beauty. Our team has gone ‘all out’ this month to bring you the trendiest local designers and best in class products and services which will inspire you to freshen your look and step out for the fall season!

Style is deeply personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions, and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.

In our cover feature, Fall for Houston Fashion , we delve into the studios of local visionary designers who have pushed the boundaries of conventional attire. Through exclusive interviews, we learned about their inspirations, design philosophies, and the tireless effort that goes into creating each masterpiece. Prepare to be transported into a world where fabrics, colors, and textures blend harmoniously to tell unique stories.

On another note, have you gotten the memo that beautiful skin is in?

In Best Face Forward , come along with us as we explore the hottest new skincare spots that are just around the corner and whose expert teams are ready to take your skin game to a whole new level.

In A True Original , you are invited behind the scenes with us as we chat with Chris Stapleton about his newest collab with Lucchese Bootmakers. I can almost guarantee you will get the itch to prep for rodeo early and place your custom boot order, stat!

As always, our mission is to deliver the absolute best hyperlocal community-meets-luxury publication that informs, entertains, and enlightens you. We hope this issue on All Things Style will ignite your passion for creativity and empower you to embrace ‘beauty inside and out’ as a means of personal expression. Let the stories within these pages be a source of inner calling and a reminder that each one of us possesses the power to add beauty and meaning to the world.

I hope you are perfectly poised for a richly inspired (and stylish) fall season. With gratitude for your continued support, Suzanne Schakett, Publisher

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Suzanne Schakett

suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Suzanne Schakett

suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jeremy Hetmaniak jeremy.hetmaniak@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANTS

Kayla Shutts | kayla.shutts@citylifestyle.com

Claire Sanchez | claire.sanchez@citylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Savannah Schakett

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

River Oaks Lifestyle Staff

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

SUZANNE SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER @RIVEROAKSLIFESTYLE

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @riveroakslifestyle

1: Jeremy Hetmaniak and Suzanne Schakett at the River Oaks Lifestyle Meet The Team event at City Cellars. 2: Holly Robideau and Sherry Boudreaux at the River Oaks Lifestyle Meet The Team event at City Cellars. 3: David & Cathy Herr at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center 'Making Cancer History' event. 4: Ernie & Stephanie Cockrell, Estela & David Cockrell at the 'Making Cancer History' event. 5: Denise Monteleone & Jim Martin at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center event in Aspen. 6: Craig Friou, Leslie Warren, Miles Matter at the Institute of Hispanic Culture of Houston party. 7: Edgar Medina, Anton Rudjuk, Monica Amirez, Erika Serran Toussaint at the Institute of Hispanic Culture party.

LAUREN HOLUB PHOTOGRAPHY

LAUREN HOLUB PHOTOGRAPHY

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

PABLO DELGADO

PABLO DELGADO

Locally presented by:

Gather with friends, family and your community for the St. Jude Walk/Run Houston. Taking place each September during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, this family-friendly event is where you can have fun and get fit while supporting the lifesaving mission of St. Jude: Finding cures. Saving children®.

Let’s cure childhood cancer. Together.

September 30, 2023

Houston Sports Park

West University Resident for 20 Years

Rhett Ross

Santa in September Sale

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa announces their annual Santa in September Sale, making the holiday wonderland spectacle an affordable destination for families. The Santa in September Sale, which is open to book from September 5 through September 14, offers the lowest rates of the year for holiday stays from November 14, 2023, thru January 7, 2024. Stays can be booked for any day of the week; some blackout dates and exclusions apply.

David Harris Presents: An Evening of Original Jazz Benefitting ReelAbilities Houston

A roster of A-list local jazz musicians and vocalists are set to join pianist and composer  David Harris for a night of musical

excellence on  September 7, 2023 as part of  David Harris Presents: An Evening of Original Jazz Benefiting ReelAbilities Houston . Beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the  Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston (MATCH), the program will feature performances of original songs from Harris, including songs from his new album, “You Loved Me Then.”

Rescued Pets Movement will celebrate with a Meow & Bow-Wow Brunch Bash

Rescued Pets Movement Inc. (RPM) is thrilled to announce this upcoming celebration, offering Houstonians a delicious opportunity to applaud more than 82,000 lives saved since the organization’s founding in September, 2013. The “Meow & Bow-Wow Brunch Bash” will be held at the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, at noon on Sunday, September 17th.

Want

to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

Brand

Photo courtesy of David Harris

ROOFING DONE RIGHT

IS YOUR HOME READY FOR STORM SEASON?

It is the perfect time to have the experts at Duque Roofing inspect your roof to ensure it’s safe and sound. We protect your family and give you peace of mind.

Best Face Forward

Three new skincare hot spots recently made their debut in Houston and from facials to top-notch products, they have it all.

ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF

HEYDAY, one of the fastest-growing skincare brands in the U.S., is bringing its renowned personalized facials to Houston by opening its third Texas shop in River Oaks. They believe facials are vital for healthy skin care and offer expert guidance, refined products, and customized experiences to unveil the true potential of each client's skin. The 50-minute facials are tailored to individual needs, with optional enhancements for specific skin concerns.

The brand-new Heyday shop in River Oaks spans an impressive 2,050 square feet and boasts a modern, minimalist design. It features eight treatment rooms, creating a serene environment for the ultimate Heyday experience. The shop also offers a thoughtfully curated retail section featuring top-quality skincare products from renowned brands like Supergoop!, Dr. Loretta, Tata Harper, and more. heydayskincare.com

Photo by CatMax Photography

Skin Pharm, the cutting-edge skincare brand and a prominent player in aesthetic skin care, recently opened its first Houston outpost. Situated at 3720 Westheimer Road in Suite 650, this marks the sixth clinic nationwide and the second in Texas. Other locations include Nashville, Franklin, Charlotte, Dallas, and Atlanta.

Founded by Maegan Griffin in 2017, Skin Pharm aimed to provide a clinic environment and product lines that she, as a patient, couldn't find but would love. The brand's foundation lies in unparalleled expertise, extensive practice, and genuine passion, setting it apart in the beauty industry. Recently, Skin Pharm received a significant $15 million investment from Prelude Growth Partners, which will aid in expanding clinics and developing new products. skinpharm.com

Skin Pharm  Hi, Skin

Hi, Skin, a leading full-service skincare studio, and marketplace, debuted in Houston earlier this summer. The inaugural Hi, Skin location offers a delightful fusion of personalized skin care services and a handpicked selection of top-notch products.

Their focus is on delivering high-quality, accessible, and convenient services that cater to the unique needs of each individual. With a team of licensed estheticians, Hi, Skin ensures every guest receives tailored facials and expert guidance for a personalized skin care journey.

For an even more appealing experience, Hi, Skin offers flexible membership plans priced at $110 per month. Members receive exclusive benefits and discounts on services, products and access to perks and special events. hiskin.care

Photo by Taylor DiGiacomo

Photo by The Rosemary Hen

Main Character Energy

THE CORVETTE STINGRAY CONVERTIBLE IS NOT AN EVERYDAY CAR, BUT IT IS A CAR YOU'LL WANT TO DRIVE EVERY DAY.

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

Want to know what it's like to drive the 2023 Corvette Stingray Convertible? Buckle up and get ready for a wild ride. This vehicle is impressive on the road, featuring a powertrain that will make hearts skip a beat.

The Stingray Convertible is undeniably a head-turner, boasting a sleek and aerodynamic design, and in terms of performance, it packs a punch. Underneath its hood is a roaring V8 engine that churns out a remarkable 495 horsepower. The acceleration is lightning-fast, and the handling is precise, allowing drivers to easily maneuver around curves. This creates an exhilarating driving experience making anyone feel like a professional behind the wheel.

Corvette is one of the longest continuously produced passenger car nameplates in world history.

Inside the cockpit, the 3LT trim offers a luxurious and minimalist design that focuses on the driving experience, with essential controls within easy reach. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the vehicle has top-of-the-line technology, including a user-friendly infotainment system that keeps drivers connected and entertained. Corvette enthusiasts will also enjoy the 70th anniversary design elements incorporated into all of the 2023 Stingrays.

Now, let's not forget the star of the show – the convertible top. With just a touch of a button, the Corvette transforms from a coupe to a drop-top marvel. The open-air experience adds a whole new excitement to driving adventures, allowing occupants to enjoy sunny days and starry nights to the fullest.

The 2023 Corvette Stingray Convertible offers an unforgettable driving experience. Its stunning design, impressive performance, and convertible top make it the perfect choice for those seeking excitement and wanting to make a statement on the road. So, get behind the wheel and let the journey begin.

The Stingray is available as a coupe with a retractable roof panel or as a hardtop convertible.

The Stingray has three trim levels to choose from.to choose from, including 1LT, 2LT and 3LT.

Is it getting hot in here, or is it just the fashion? From edgy streetwear to elegant haute couture, Houston has it all, and the city’s creative set is thriving with ingenuity and flair. Emerging designers are making their mark, showcasing their work at hip boutiques and lively fashion events. With abundant artistic inspiration and a supportive community, the fashion scene here is constantly evolving. Whether funky accessories or chic ready-to-wear, Houston’s got the style game on point.

FALL FOR HOUSTON FASHION

A bevy of Houston's most fashionable brands debut their fall and pre-fall collections.

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA

Photo courtesy of Freya

Freya

1610 Bissonnet Street - Houston, 77006 thefreyabrand.com

Juniper

$342

Each hat is unique and reflects the natural beauty & variation of the handicraft process.

SOUTHERN GENTS

s-gents.com

SG Duffle Coat - Blood Orange  $375

With many layering options for the season, make a powerful style statement with the Double Breasted, 'Anniversary' V Top Coat.

courtesy of Southern Gents

Photo

(Facing Page)

SUSANA VEGA JEWELRY

susanavegajewelry.com

Alba earcuff, $190  Aria Earrings, $170 Aria earcuff

Much of Susana Vega’s jewelry is inspired by the ocean and its creatures. It's eye-catching, easy to pair, and alluring, making it the perfect accessory to mix and match to create a stunning statement look.

Photo by Caitlin Burke

LEATHER BY VAL

leatherbyval.com

Gabrielle Purse

$3,500.00

100% Calfskin leather, made in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Marion Leather Jacket

$1,885.00

Nappa Leather (calfskin / Lambskin). High end quality & design, made in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Akena Tote bag

$2,700

Handmade lambskin leather with a glossy finish. Edges and handles are made with calfskin animal print embossed leather.

Agheda Nappa Leather heel, Made in Italy. Leather sole, t-strap in leather $795

Photo courtesy of Leather by Val

Photo courtesy of Leather by Val

Christy Lynn Collection  9655 Katy Fwy #180, 77024 christylynn.com

Isla Cardigan - Ivory

$398

The Isla cardigan is a machine-knitted crochet piece made with love. Wear it over dresses or paired down with denim; this cardigan will take you from day to night.

Lora Skirt - Green Magnolia

$425

The Lora skirt features a machine pleated technique that gives the cotton skirt a beautiful shape. Featuring this season’s hand-drawn floral, pair it with the matching top for a complete look.

CHRISTY LYNN COLLECTION

Photo courtesy of Christy Lynn Collection

Photo courtesy of Christy Lynn Collection

INCLÁN STUDIO

inclanstudio.com

Inwood Dress - Evergreen

$495

The Inwood Dress is the perfect combination of breathable cotton and luxurious silk. Featuring a chic ruffled sleeve, it can be dressed up or down for a timeless wardrobe statement.

Octavia Kaftan - Expresso  $495

The Octavia Kaftan's roomy design allows for a wide range of motion, while its kimono cut adds a touch of elegance. Crafted with comfort and style in mind, this kaftan is sure to become a wardrobe staple.

Photo courtesy of Inclan Studio

Photo courtesy of Inclan Studio

4140 Directors Row A, Houston, TX 77092

getawaysticks.com

Space  $199

Space is a stylish heel with a flexible feel. Made of vegan microsuede, this heel is built for all-day wear.

Safari  $199

Safari is a stylish heel with a flexible feel. Made of the softest kid suede, this heel is built for all-day wear.

GETAWAY STICKS

Photo courtesy of Getaway Sticks

Photo courtesy of Getaway Sticks

The Good Life

LISTED BY KELLIE GEITNER, THIS RIVER OAKS ESTATE BOASTS BREATHTAKING DETAILS, LIGHTING, AND FINISHES THROUGHOUT

In the heart of River Oaks lies an exquisite home that beautifully blends mid-modern, art deco, and old-Hollywood styles. Listed by Kellie Geitner of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty, this property is a true gem positioned on one of the area's premier streets. Boasting 4/5 bedrooms and 6.2 bathrooms, this estate sits on an oversized lot and showcases breathtaking details, lighting, and finishes.

A recent 2023 build, this property has topnotch designer customization throughout. The open layout is perfect for both grand entertaining and day-to-day living. As you enter, a magnificent custom Plume chandelier

will grab your attention and can be admired from every level of the house.

Designed by the renowned Julie Dodson, the interior is a testament to luxurious living—the kitchen is a culinary masterpiece complete with state-of-the-art amenities. A dream come true for aspiring chefs, the kitchen is equipped with L'Atelier/ Gaggenau appliances and custom glass and brass cabinets and shelves from L'atelier Paris Haute Design.

Beautiful hand-painted Porto Teleo wallpaper and an awe-inspiring clear glass Hermes chandelier adorn the dining room, which is a work of art. A true connoisseur's

3452 Ella Lee Lane Houston, Texas, 77027

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY TK IMAGES FOR MARTHA TURNER SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

delight, the bar and wine room feature a Taj Majal quartzite bar with a striking waterfall edge, complemented by leather bar shelving and exquisite brass detailing, courtesy of Brian Joseph.

The primary bedroom is complete with dual marble-clad bathrooms that exude luxury. Every secondary bedroom boasts an en-suite bath, ensuring comfort and privacy for all. No expense was spared in creating this one-of-a-kind masterpiece, and it shows in every corner of the home.

Families will love the backyard which offers a picturesque setting with new turf grass, a refreshing pool, advanced cooling and heating systems, a mosquito control system, and an outdoor grill and kitchen. To top it all off, a charming stone fireplace completes the enchanting outdoor space.

This home celebrates style, craftsmanship, and comfort, making it a true standout in River Oaks' prestigious neighborhood. Without a doubt, this extraordinary residence is the epitome of luxury living.

3452 ELLA LEE LANE

FEATURE 1:

The media room has custom automatic drapes, a set of 6 Hudson Valley brass sconces, and built in speakers.

FEATURE 2:

This home features stone walkways in the front yard leading to a sitting area surrounded by lush landscaping.

FEATURE 3:

The home’s bar has Roll & Hill brass and smoked glass bar pendants, a custom wine cellar with inlaid brass and bronze mirrors.

“This exquisite River Oaks home has hints of mid-modern, art deco, and old-Hollywood style and flair.” – Kellie Geitner

The home features a L’Atelier and Gaggenau custom kitchen with state of the art amenities.

The backyard is a retreat with a heated and chilled pool and brand new turf yard.

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

THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straight-lined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

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

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.

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

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

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

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

A True Original

LUCCHESE AND CHRIS STAPLETON HAVE AN APPRECIATION FOR BEING THE BEST AT WHAT THEY DO WHILE EMBRACING A TIMELESS, WESTERN LIFESTYLE.

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LUCCHESE BOOTMAKER

Lucchese Bootmaker and renowned eight-time Grammy-Award-winning artist Chris Stapleton recently revealed their highly anticipated boot collection, an exquisite blend of artistry and craftsmanship.

This collaboration results from a five-year journey, born from mutual admiration and respect by Lucchese and Stapleton. Their shared love for the craft is evident in the story of dedication and passion that the Lucchese x Chris Stapleton collection tells. The project began taking shape in 2018 during the brainstorming phase but traces its origins back nearly a decade ago when Stapleton first visited Lucchese's factory in El Paso, Texas. Since then, his profound affection for Lucchese has been evident through his collection of vintage boots and the Lucchese shirts his band wore during their tours.

SETTER STYLE + BEAUTY

The collection features three unique boot styles, each in two colorways, that are handmade in Texas –The Original, San Antonio, and Old Friend.

Both Lucchese and Stapleton share core values of ingenuity, creativity, and soul, making this collaboration a natural and seamless fit. Doug Kindy, the President of Lucchese Bootmaker, warmly welcomed Stapleton into the Lucchese family, saying, "If there was ever a relationship that was meant to be, Chris and Lucchese would be the one."

Stapleton acknowledges the artistry in Lucchese's boots, describing them as refined works of art. He greatly appreciates the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating each pair.

The Lucchese x Chris Stapleton collection boasts three distinct boot styles, each available in two colorways, meticulously handcrafted in Texas. The Original style draws inspiration from Stapleton's first-ever design, which he conceived during his initial visit to the Lucchese factory. These Buffalo boots embody all-American authenticity, featuring a hand-corded moccasin toe that pays homage to Stapleton's creativity and Lucchese's commitment to superior craftsmanship.

The San Antonio style reflects Lucchese's vintage designs and features the brand's sought-after Black Cherry finish. These boots are made from brush-off Santini goat leather with a highshine finish, showcasing historic Seville hand-cording detail inspired by the San Antonio factory.

Finally, the Old Friend style captures the essence of Western tradition with supple suede leather, a tribute to Stapleton's musical heroes and a nod to the timeless spirit of tradition.

Stapleton is enthusiastic about sharing the Lucchese boots saying, "Lucchese boots are what cowboy boots are supposed to be. I can't wait for people to try them on and learn what I already know: when you put a pair of these on, you don't need anything else."

Beyond the creative collaboration, the Lucchese x Chris Stapleton collection also embraces philanthropy. A portion of the proceeds from this partnership will be donated to Stapleton's charity, Outlaw State of Kind, amplifying the impact of this harmonious union between Lucchese and the multi-talented musician.

Lucchese recently unveiled a special custom collection in collaboration with 8x Grammy-Award winning artist, Chris Stapleton.

“I'm of the mind that everything can be refined to an art and that's what I love about Lucchese boots — they've taken bootmaking and refined it to an art.”

– Chris Stapleton