Dallas named sixth Worst Dressed City by Travel & Leisure Magazine

A recent survey by Travel + Leisure found that Dallas is the sixth worst-dressed city in America.  Twenty cities, including two different Portlands, made the reader-nominated list. Anchorage, Alaska is the worst-dressed city, according to the survey.

 

Ann Richards

 

T&L reports, "#6 DALLAS: Bigger seems to always be better in the Dallas/Fort Worth area; just take one look at the infamously over-the-top JumboTron at the Cowboys Stadium. And when it comes to getting dressed, big hair, conspicuous designer labels, and slick snakeskin boots are the norm. “Less is more” is not a phrase heard round these parts."

Damn skippy!

 

We may not be the most fashion-forward city in America, but we are a far cry from all being extras in a 1980s country music video.  The editors of the magazine are based in New York, so it’s easy to understand why they may not appreciate our wardrobes. Temperatures here reach almost 120 degrees in the summer; and for most of the winter, it’s still hot enough to bake cookies on the sidewalk.

 

They can put us wherever they want to on the list, but until there is a mass outbreak of pairing socks with flip-flops in downtown Dallas, we have nothing to worry about.

 

Gina Ginsburg

PS: I think it's hilarious that when I went to Google for an image for this post and typed in"Texas big hair cowboy" a photo of my friend, Gina Ginsburg popped up on the first page.  Gina is one of the most stylish women I know and I'll put her up as my Texas representative for fashion any day! 

 

You go, girl!

NOT surprisingly, a couple of photos for Big Rich Texas were also on the first page.

 

source: NBC DFW

Fresh Faces of Fashion Wrap Up 2012 in Style

This year's Fresh Faces of Fashion program all began several months ago when Modern Luxury magazine collected nominations for this year's roster. To be selected as a FFF, one has to be not only stylish on the outside, but be able to serve up a dossier of charitable works and contributions to the community at large. Every year, 12 lucky women are selected to represent the program and serve as stylish ambassadors to raise awareness and much needed funds to benefit the North Texas Suicide and Crisis Center.

(left) Fresh Face Ambassador, Amy Havins (top right) Mother/Daughter beauties
(bottom right) Tracie McElhaney, Cristi Wilcox and Jamie O'Boyle

There is always a fierce competition to see which Fresh Face Ambassador can sell the most raffle tickets for a chance to win a new Mercedes-Benz from Park Place Motorcars! The winning ticket was drawn at an event on May 23, 2012 at Park Place Motorcars. Over 700 guests came out to see if theirs was the lucky raffle ticket.  Congrats to Katy Messersmith who sold the most raffle tickets - 205 to be exact, raising $20, 500 for the charity.  Bailey Coon came in second with 147 tickets sold raising $14,700. Way to go ladies!!

The winner of a beautiful brand new Mercedes-Benz C250 sedan was... wait for it....  Vy Tran who bought her ticket online and wasn't even at the event! Wa wa wa. It was kind of a bummer for everyone else who was there and holding their breath to see if there's was the winning ticket, but... that's just how it goes sometimes.

(top left) Tiffany Divis and Jill Rowlett   (top right)  Yvonne Crum and Jenyce Gush
(bottom) Caroline Terry, Cynthia Smoot, designer Ashley Burghardt and Alison Volk all sporting Ashard Richley handbags

To wrap up their tenure for FFF, the ladies did one last stomp down a runway modeling clothing from Stanley Korshak featuring designer Joy Cioci.  Guests enjoyed bites from Wendy Crispin, a beauty lounge where Mickey Williams read lip prints, and pics from Foto Favor. Once again, co-chairs Jill Rowlett and Yvonne Crum produced a spectacular event raising a ton of money for a very worthy cause.

 Fresh Faces of Fashion 2012

• Katy Messersmith, Founder and CEO of Katydid Collections
• Samantha Davies, NBC 5 Meteorologist
• Caroline Cooper, Student at UT Austin and Shop Across Texas student blogger
• Carla Miller, Civic Volunteer
• Kaylyn Montgomery, Client Liaison for Coquerel Family Estate Wines
• Bailey Coon, Sales and Marketing Associate for North American Spine
• Amy Wells Havins, Owner of Dallas Wardrobe
• Grace Victoria Davis, Fashion Blogger and Executive Director for SMU Fashion Week
• Allison Wiley Lent, Owner of TheSocialButterfly.com
• Lauren Parsons, Consultant with Parsons Agency
• Lynsey Wiley Provost, Fine Art Consultant
• Krystal Schlegel, SMU student and Fashion Blogger

photos courtesy of Peter Wynne a.k.a. Plano Pete

Discover Uptown's Safe Haven for Fashion

Mallory Harrison & Abby Hoak

Abby Hoak and Mallory Harrison's partnership was practically pre-ordained. The childhood besties met in 7th grade at Hockaday, then went on to SMU together.  Their fathers were business partners, so it wasn't so far-fetched for them to carry on the family tradition. 

The gals have teamed up to create Haven - an upscale boutique carrying modern and polished lines, from the trendsetting designs from New York designer Charlotte Ronson, the collection of sexy, flirty contemporary dresses from Ali-Ro to the “new” vintage dresses from Los Angeles based designer ani lee.

They will also carry swimwear from Tori Praver, Henry and Belle jeans and Bon Bon by Dallas based jewelry designer Micah Yancey.

Hoak muses, "We want to have clothing that is wearable and affordable. Nothing in the store is over $500 and you'll find designs to fit any body style."  I asked the girls what the best part of having their own store was? Harrison replied, "It's so awesome when our favorite designers actually return our calls and show interest in being in the store. We will get off the phone and be like, 'Oh my gosh, House of Harlow just called us back!  That's really cool."

Haven, 2422 Worthington St., Dallas, TX 75204, 214.969.1005

GCB Author Kim Gatlin Gets Bitchy

Kim Gatlin, author of Good Christian Bitches, held a swanky soiree at Winston's Supperclub last night where she signed copies of her book and posed for photos with rapt fans.  In case you've been living under a rock, let me remind you that Darren Star of Sex In The City fame optioned the book in 2010 and turned it into a show for ABC called GCB which aired earlier this year.

All fans could chatter about last night was the recent demise of the ABC show and lament its passing after only one season. Did you know that there is an online petition to save the show and it currently has over 60,000 virtual signatures!? So who knows... maybe ABC will change its mind! Fingers crossed.  Word has it that another network is so impressed with these numbers that they are currently casting for a reality-based rip-off of the show.  What network, you might be wondering??  One that a lot of Housewives watch... Uh huh.

Bri Crum, Kim Gatlin and Alison Volk

Gatlin told me her next book is called Good Christian Bastards, and will be a male version of her first book.  No word as to when we can expect to read it because she's currently shopping around for a publisher. She's already at work on her third tome called Little Bitches which will be a prequel to GCB and take us back to the beginning, when the ladies were in high school. Ironically, GCB star, Kristen Chenoweth was performing at the Winspear Opera House last night, so Kim hightailed it out of Winston's to catch her performance and posted on Facebook today, "If you have to walk 1,000 miles to see her show, it will be worth it. She is an ENTERTAINER in every sense of the word and was amazing!! She has a hilarious bit about how disappointed she is with ABC's decision to cancel GCB!!! She's such an amazing talent and an amazing person! Go see her if she's anywhere close to you!!! You'll be glad you did!!"

Alexandra and Cathy Williamson, Kim Gatlin and Cynthia Smoot

A little bit about Kim: Kim was born and raised in the Park Cities area of Dallas, Texas where she still lives with her two children Austin (21) and Lauren (15). After her divorce from country music legend Rudy Gatlin of the Gatlin Brothers in 2006, Kim’s divorce counselor advised her to write “Good Christian Bitches” as an outlet for the traumatized divorcee. The journals were used as the basis for the story in which was eventually turned into a book in October of 2008. As her greatest heartbreaks were caused by a very few women in the neighborhood who were always championing themselves as “good Christian women,” Kim jokingly referred to them one day as "Good Christian Bitches" and a new label was born in addition to a book title.

Photos courtesy of Shana Anderson.  Thanks to Katydid Collections for providing me with this fabulous maxi dress! I will be wearing it all Summer!

Tiffany Derry hosts Chefs from Top Chef for Dinner Series

Executive Chef Tiffany Derry is shaking things up at Private|Social this summer by rolling out a celebrity chef dinner series, as well as cooking and mixology classes.  Each month this summer, Tiffany will be co-hosting a celebrity chef dinner at Private|Social with a few of her Top Chef friends. Diners will be treated to a four or five-course meal with wine pairings expertly created by Chef Derry and her co-host. Dinners are priced at $125 per person (tax and gratuity not included).

Kevin Sbraga of Sbraga

June 19, 2012

Angelo Sosa of Anejo Tequileria, Social Eatz

July 10, 2012

Carla Hall of Alchemy, The Chew

August 9 & 10, 2012

Cooking and Mixology Classes

On the second Saturday of each month, Chef Tiffany Derry will host intimate cooking classes focused on various regional cuisines. Following cooking lessons, Beverage Director Rocco Milano will school students on the art of mixing the perfect cocktail. 

Classes with Chef Derry include a three-course meal and begin at 10 a.m. Rocco’s classes will begin promptly at 12:30 p.m. the same day. Cooking classes are priced at $80, while mixology classes run at $25. Classes can be paired for $100. A portion of the proceeds will be used to purchase backpacks for the North Texas Food Bank’s Food 4 Kids program. 

Italian: June 9, 2012 
Asian: July 14, 2012

French: August 11, 2012

To make reservations or book a class, please call 214.754.4744 or visit www.privatesocial.com. Private|Social is located at 3232 McKinney Avenue, Dallas, TX 75204.

Dress for Success: Light the Runway 2012

Dress for Success launched Light the Runway, their first annual Father/Daughter runway show at Tootsies last Thursday.  Good Morning Texas host Amy Vanderoef introduced the show along with Dress for Success' local celebrity Ambassador, Courtney Kerr of Bravo TV's Most Eligible Dallas.

The celebrities that lent their talents on the runway included Gary Jackson & Alexia Figgous, Ricardo & Alissa Ortiz, Mike Degani & Sharon Blumberg, Leonard & Alsion Volk, Benny & Brianna Black, Rick & Rachel Fresquez, Vaughn, Gigi & Jade Miller, Brian & Bryn Neufeld, Freddy, Sofia & McKenzie Vaca, Daniel, Candice, Caydence & Caylee Hernandez, Mike Leatherwood & Jamie Lain Siegel, John Conte & Brianna Beasley, Stephen & Kelly Giles, James, Katy & Sara Ryan, Joe, Sara & Katherine Ho, Dean & Kennedy Ann Niewouny, Elgrie & Klarc, Joy Vida Hurd, Mitch Carr & Rose, Willow Skidmore, and Gene & Abi Ferrin.

Katy Messersmith, Kristen Fagelman and Courtney Kerr

Rick Fresquez, Rich Emberlin, guest, Amy Vanderoef and Alison Volk

Samantha Crum givers her Mama, Bri, some love

My favorite runway participants were the Daddy's with their little girls. 
Pictured here are Daniel Hernandez, FC Dallas Soccer Captain, with his two girls and former Dallas Cowboy, Ryan Neufeld with his daughter, Bryn.

Kristen Fagelman models a maxi dress from Katydid Collection | Rich Emberlin and LeeAnne Locken

Dress for Success beneficiaries, staff and supporters!

Dress for Success Dallas is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Dress for Success Dallas provides each woman in their program with one suit when she has a job interview.  When she successfully lands a job, she returns to Dress for Success Dallas for a second suit and up to a week’s worth of business appropriate separates. She also receives an invitation to join the Professional Women’s Group (PWG), our employment retention service. To learn more about this organization, or how to donate, visit their website.

Photos courtesy of Shana Anderson. Click here to see a gallery of photographs from this event.

Hi/Lo Gives Dallas a Speakeasy Scene

Hi/Lo is destined to be a hot spot for beautiful people and cool kids alike.  Located below The Mason Bar (literally below - it's in the basement), Hi/Lo brings Dallas it’s first speakeasy; by definition - unmarked facade, sublime den inside – and it will work in concert with the bar/restaurant upstairs.  Hi/Lo offers a bar, stage, bathrooms, banquet seating, cabaret tables, and a design motif that is straight out of the 1920’s.  The vintage damask and skull wallpaper and antique sconces alone seem straight out of the famed Storyville red-light district in New Orleans.  To add to the authenticity, the very building itself was built in the 1920’s and has been a church, a Masonic lodge, and an artist’s studio.

The program at Hi/Lo will be to offer a one-of-a-kind event experience as well as offer select live shows.  On evenings when the room is open to visitors from The Mason Bar one will encounter an actual prohibition vibe and the mixology to authenticate the experience.

Now in it’s fourth month, The Mason Bar continues to entertain its regulars and many new faces each week with the Southern-inspired cuisine of Chef Cable Smith.  Smith, who worked under acclaimed Chef Richard Blais in Atlanta before coming to The Mason Bar also graduated from the heralded Texas Culinary Academy.  Smith’s focus on local ingredients and classic cooking style brings a fresh look to the table.  Classic cocktails, an ambitious wine list, and direct draw beer selections complete the offerings in this State Thomas original.

Mason Bar and Hi/Lo are located at 2701 Guillot Street  Dallas, TX 75204, (214) 220-0227.  For more info, visit http://www.themasonbar.com/, become a Fan on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Jonathan Adler brings his creative flair to Dallas

Jonathan Adler, celebrity interior designer and purveyor of “happy chic” furniture and home accessories, opened his first Dallas boutique last week. Adler says of his entry to Big D, "Style, craft and joy are the three words that I use to describe the spirit of my work. Among my offerings will be twinkly chandeliers, handmade porcelain pots, bold and graphic rugs that are hand-loomed in Peru, and lots of chic furniture. I have always felt a kinship with Dallas people. They’re playful and stylish at the same time. I hope my store will reflect that."  The store carries an assortment of Adler’s designs including decorative objects, bedding, bath accessories, candles, rugs, pillows, furniture and lighting.

(top left) Katherine Perot Reeves and Elizabeth Showers  (top right) Simon Doonan and Cynthia Smoot
(bottom left)Jonathan Adler and Kimberly Whitman  (bottom right)  Steve, Lucy and Stella Wrubel

The opening was a mad house and the space was packed with hipsters and fashionistas trying to get a glance at Adler and his just-as-famous and equally fabulous partner, Simon Doonan.  Among the crush was Jack Son, Kimberly Whitman, Steve & Lucy Wrubel with their daughter, Stella, PR maven Barbara Buzzell, Womens Wear Daily contributor Holly Haber, Richard Graziano and Brian Bolke.  To learn some wacky fun facts about Adler, check out Joslyn Taylor's interview over at D Home.

 Notice the new header on my website? I couldn't resist this photo opp!

Check out Jonathan Adler at 4525 McKinney Ave. For more information, call 214-484-9226.

Eat. Drink. Learn. Uptown Dallas Food Tour provides an unusual culinary experience

 Bread Winners courtyard

Uptown Dallas' first walking food tour will take place Saturday, June 9, and offer participants a delicious sightseeing experience.  Locals and tourists, alike, will receive an insider’s view of Dallas’ most pedestrian-friendly areas with a special focus on the best local cuisine – from confectionery favorites to Tex-Mex and Italian specialties.

In addition to generous tastings at several hand-picked eateries, each fully-narrated walking tour includes historical attractions and anecdotes as guides share the stories behind each locale.

Participants of the Uptown Dallas Food Tour can expect delicious sit down tastings at a collection of area restaurants, historic commentary, and a scenic stroll down McKinney Avenue to the West Village Shopping District.

The walking tour also includes a look at community theaters and art galleries, and the State Thomas Historic District, which contains the largest collection of 1880’s Victorian homes in Dallas. The tour ends with an optional ride on Uptown’s antique trolley cars.

Learn the history of the Bellini at Sfuzzi

Highlights

• Generous restaurant tastings, come hungry!
• Entertaining stories of the rich history and culture of Dallas.
• The McKinney Avenue Trolley of Uptown, a restored antique rail car system with the oldest running trolley car in the nation.
• The West Village Shopping District, the heart of Dallas’ Uptown Neighborhood.
• The State Thomas Historic District – Dallas’ oldest surviving neighborhood and largest collection of 1880’s Victorian homes.
• Dallas’ oldest and most notable cemeteries.
• Independent community theaters and contemporary art galleries.
• Food Tours of America, locally owned and dedicated solely to food tours!

McKinney Ave. Trolley

Uptown Dallas Food Tours will begin on June 9, 2012 and occur each Saturday and Sunday and some weekdays. Tours last approximately 2.5 hours with brief, scenic walks in between tastings. To ensure a personal, high quality experience, each tour is limited to 16 participants.

Food Tours of America can provide up to seven guided tours daily, and specializes in customized private events for corporations, wedding and event planners, and individual groups of any size. Food and beverages tastings, as well as cultural attractions are all included in the $45 cost per person.

“Food tours are sweeping the nation, but so far, Dallas’ food scene has been unrepresented. By offering Uptown Dallas’ first walking food tour, we hope to provide a unique opportunity for visitors and locals alike to enjoy the diverse cuisine and rich history and culture that drive our vibrant city,” says Director of Sales and Marketing Jodi Philippson.

I took a media preview of this tour last week and had a thoroughly delightful time. It's a lot of delicious food and cocktails to more than fill you up, you learn interesting facts about our city I never knew and you walk off all the calories you are consuming throughout the night! I wouldn't recommend this for children as it is a LOT of walking.

What: Uptown's First Walking Food Tour
When: Starting Saturday, June 9, 2012, and continuing on weekends and some weekdays
Tours begin late morning to early afternoon and last approximately 2.5 hours
Where: Uptown - meeting location information is sent with ticket purchase
How Much: $45 per ticket. Click here to purchase your ticket!

Dallas shows Tinsley Mortimer some Southern Charm

Tinsley and Cynthia

NYC socialite Tinsley Mortimer has just written a book titled "Southern Charm" and she's on the road to promote her debut tome.  Neiman Marcus and Krystal Schlegel hosted a little soiree at the NorthPark store last Friday evening.

So, what does a NYC socialite know about Southern charm one might ask? Turns out Mortimer is from Richmond, Virginia so she knows a little something about our ways. 

Among those who turned out to see the stylish Mortimer were Rhonda Sargent Chambers and Kimberly Schlegel Whitman.  Mortimer did not disappoint in a stunning gown by up and coming designer Rafael Cennamo. 

I was able to blend seamlessly into the socialite scene thanks to Yana Kolmakova with Team Motives who did my make-up for the evening!  It takes a village, people...

Kimberly Whitman, Mortimer and Krystal Schlegel

"Southern Charm" is a modern Manhattan fairy tale with the sparkle of a champagne cocktail, Tinsley Mortimer’s debut novel provides a delicious peek into her world of society, fashion, and big-city fame.

Mortimer’s insider observations about New York’s elite are deliciously witty, and the heart of her book is that of an irresistibly lovable young woman who is on the brink of finding her dream.  "Southern Charm" is available on Amazon and bookstores everywhere.

Casting Call: Nike is looking for basketball players for a new commercial

Nike is casting for a Nike Brand Jordan commercial that will be filmed in both Beijing China and Dallas.  The Dallas portion will shoot June 16th - 19th.  They will be recreating numerous basketball games (college, Olympic and NBA).  The majority of the game action will be filmed at the American Airlines Center.

They need to find basketball players to fill these basketball roles: Chinese/Asian, African-American and Caucasian basketball players.  You should be 18 - 30yrs old and be able to play at college level.  They CANNOT hire any player who is currently on a basketball scholarship at any university due to eligibility issues.  All players will be paid to appear in our commercial.

There is going to be an open call Thursday, May 24th in Dallas from 3pm - 8:30pm at Thurgood Marshall Recreation Center, 5150 Mark Trailway, Dallas, Texas  75232

  

1. Come ready to play - no sign up needed.

2. You MUST play ball at the college level (but not currently on a basketball scholarship). 

3. You will only be there for 30-45 minutes - not the entire time.

  

Should you have any additional questions please email nikespotdallas@gmail.com

Dallas Dweller: John Piermarini

Dallas is full of colorful characters. There are those you see monthly in the society pages, whose stories are legendary in this town. But, this feature is inspired by the people that I think you should know more about because of their fabulous style, interesting back-story or amazing accomplishments.  Dallas Dweller seeks to introduce you to these fabulous faces and this week, I want to introduce you to a young man who's taking the Dallas fashion scene by storm:

John Piermarini

John Piermarini
photo by Beau Bumpas Photography

In November of 2010, 20-year old John Piermarini decided to thrust himself into the competitive Dallas fashion scene by opening Piermarini Boutique in Uptown with the vision of bringing fresh and unique looks to the Dallas fashion scene at an affordable price point.

His uptown boutique features international, local and new designers that are off the beaten path to mainstream fashion avenues, with each store item being hand-picked by John himself. Maintaining an heir of exclusivity, Piermarini Boutique showcases designs under $500, only orders one item in each size and has a strict no re-order policy.

I recently became acquainted with John, and was so impressed with his talent - but more importantly, his entrepreneurial drive ay such a young age - that I asked Piermarini to share some of his insights about Dallas with me so I could get to know him better. 

Q:  What's your life story in a couple of sentences?

A:  Born in Houston, raised in Dallas - I've lived in Texas my entire life.  I always tell people that I didn't have much of a choice to be in the fashion industry - the moment my mother could take me out of the house she brought me straight to the Chanel make-up counter at Neimans, and I've been a professional shopper ever since. I started designing clothing when I was 15. One day, I just decided to get a sewing machine and I taught myself the basics.  From there I made a custom wedding dress for an actual bride, and then I met my friend and mentor, Abi Ferrin.

Abi and I have been mentoring each other since the day we met, and we still work together today.  I worked as an intern for Abi on special events, and even worked alongside her pattern maker.  Today, Abi and I have a collaboration together called Abi & John of just basic pieces that everyone needs in their wardrobe.  After graduating High School, I decided to open my store.  I wanted to be able to design, buy, and work directly with customers - and opening a store was the best way to do all of the above!  I wanted to make something different, and I wanted people to take risks with their wardrobe.  In order to do that, I needed to take the risk of opening up my own business at the age of 19.

Piermarini outside his namesake boutique.  Photo: SMU Daily Campus

Q:  Name a few of your favorite places to shop for yourself.

A:  I love to shop! Really, I do. I love Forty Five Ten (who doesn't?) and of course, Barneys - those are my two favorites in Dallas.  Going through my closet it's, "I got this at Piermarini, this at Barneys, and all of those shoes from Forty Five Ten.

Iron Fork 2012

The Dallas Observer hosted their 2nd annual Iron Fork event on May 8 at f.i.g.  This event was a dream come true for foodies looking to sample cuisine from a wide variety of Dallas restaurants like Bread Winners, Cafe Brazil, Dallas Fish Market, Greenz, Landmark Restaurant, Lockhart Smokehouse, Primebar, Torchy's Tacos and a whole lot more!  The trick to surviving this event is to not eat all day and come hungry!

Scott Romano (left) took home the giant skillet. Photo: Dallas Observer

The evening's big entertainment was a Chef's Challenge moderated by local culinary legend, Kent Rathbun. Last year's Iron Fork champion, Scott Romano, returned to battle TJ Lengnick from Whiskey Cake and for the second year remained victorious!  Each chef received a basket of ingredients and the challenge was to go head-to-head in a creative cook-off using provided items with celebrity judges Gene Gates from KVIL, Steven Doyle from Crave DFW and the Dallas Observer's Cheap Bastard columnist Alice Laussade selecting the winner!  Throughout the night, guests not only enjoyed the Chef's Challenge, but tastings from local restaurants, live music, a mixologist station, along with beer, wine and cocktail stations.

Here are some scenes from the event:

(top right) LeeAnne Locken and Kent Rathbun  (top left) Employees of Cafe Brazil
(bottom left) Gene gates, Kent Rathbun and Steven Doyle  (bottom right) Lockhart Smokehouse

(top left)  Mesa  (top right)  Katy Messersmith and Marc Mattox
(bottom left) Matt Russell and Danielle Latta (bottom right) photo booth fun

The best part of the night was an awesome swag bag from sponsor Whole Foods that came with my VIP ticket that was packed with gift cards from participating restaurants and a gorgeous pair of earrings from Kendra Scott.  Surprisingly, it did not include a copy of the Dallas Observer... This is one super fun and tasty event I encourage you to check out next year!

Timothy Oulton Makes Classic Furniture Cool

London antiques dealer and furniture reproductionist Timothy Oulton is driven by a passion for traditional handcraftsmanship.  Having inherited a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for classic, timeless design from his Father, Tim found himself captivated by, above all, the exquisite quality of the antiques that came from meticulous, time-honoured handcraftsmanship.  Oulton is bringing his unique sense of style across the pond and will open a Dallas store next month.

A tribute to Tim’s antiques background, each piece is handcrafted using time-honoured techniques , while Tim’s extraordinary attention to detail means that every bolt, every stitch, and every detail counts. No two products are ever alike and each piece is imbued with its own distinct personality. “It’s the raw finish that makes it contemporary and relevant. It’s furniture that you interact with, that you look at and smile,” says Tim.

Reinterpreting timeless, classic designs with a modern perspective, heritage and longevity form the core of the brand’s values. “We’re the Rolling Stones of the furniture world,” explains Tim, “It’s about taking something from the past and making it relevant.”

Inspired by the past with a view towards the future, Timothy Oulton is a collection of distinct individuality. “We have a point of view,” says Tim, “There is a character, a soul to what we do. There is an authenticity to the product because of the materials we use, the design we have, the link to heritage and antiques. It is completely unique.”

Timothy Oulton will be located at 4500 North Central Expressway in Dallas.  For more info, visit http://www.timothyoulton.com or connect with them on Facebook.

Amir Omar chosen as One Man Dallas 2012

Richardson City Councilman and Methodist Richardson Cancer Center volunteer Amir Omar was named 2012 One Man Dallas on Thursday, May 10, 2012.  Out of 21 semifinalists, Omar was voted the man who best represents Dallas-Fort Worth from the perspective of community involvement as well as overall personality, intelligence and fitness. 

Emcee Amy Vanderoef introduced each of the 21 nominees and gave them one last moment in the spotlight before naming the winner. Each had to answer a question live onstage that had been written by another nominee.  Questions like, "How would you describe a sunset to a blind man?" and "Who do you feel (besides yourself) should win this event and why?"

Omar, who works for Verizon Wireless and has served on the Richardson City Council since 2009, was nominated for One Man Dallas because of his service to Methodist Richardson Cancer Center, where he has contributed more than 800 hours of volunteer work and serves on their Foundation Board. His work there includes chairing the Wildride! Wildrun! Against Cancer for the second year in a row following a record-breaking fundraising year in 2011.

As One Man Dallas winner, Omar’s charity received $2,500 from Whole Foods Market Dallas and he received a $2,500 Stanley Korshak gift card.  The One Man Project, which was initiated with One Man Minneapolis in 2009 and One Man Chicago in 2010, puts the spotlight on men doing charitable work in their communities and highlights the efforts of each man’s affiliated charity. Because women volunteer at a rate five times that of men, the project’s mission is to encourage other men to volunteer their time, energy and resources.

2012 One Man Dallas nominees

The One Man Dallas winner after being judged on four criteria: interviews with community leader judges, scores from each finalist’s community service project, personality at three community happy hours, and online voting results.

Four of the One Man Dallas finalists also received special recognition at the event. Edgar Sotelo, nominated by the Magdaleno Leadership Institute, received the most online votes.  Ryan Harms with Back on My Feet, Tim Halperin with Susan G. Komen For the Cure, and Sam Mulroy with DFW Rescue Men created and executed outstanding community service projects.

The One Man Project, which was initiated with One Man Minneapolis in 2009 and One Man Chicago in 2010, puts the spotlight on men doing charitable work in their communities and highlights the efforts of each man’s affiliated charity. Because women volunteer at a rate five times that of men, the project’s mission is to encourage other men to volunteer their time, energy and resources. 

Tinsley Mortimer brings Southern Charm to Dallas

Tinsley Mortimer first hit my radar in 2010 when she appeared in a reality show called High Society about the socialite life in New York City.  Outside of the social scene, Mortimer has made a name for herself with a line of handbags and clothing in Japan for Samantha Thavasa.  She subsequently formed her own clothing line, Riccime by Tinsley Mortimer, which is available in select stores in Japan.

Tinsley, a native of Richmond, Virginia, has just written a book titled "Southern Charm", which follows Minty Davenport from South Carolina to New York where she is the victim of rumors. (I would be willing to bet that she has taken many of her own personal experiences as inspiration for this work of fiction...)

You can meet Tinsley and celebrate her debut novel at Neiman Marcus NorthPark this Friday, May 18 from 6-8.  See the invitation below for more details.

Everything But Water takes the angst out of Swimsuit Shopping

Sheila and Brittany

The only thing worse than shopping for jeans is looking for a new swimsuit.  Every Summer, I dread having to try on suits that will show my every flaw and make me feel like my best days are behind me... (sigh).

I was intrigued when I received an invitation from Everything But Water last week to visit their newly remodeled Preston Center boutique. They promised me a shopping experience like none other with one of their "fit experts".  I decided to put them to the challenge.

I got a tour of the store from Sheila Arnold, President of EBW, who explained that while they have always been a leader in providing an amazing variety of swimsuits and cover-ups - their mission has now expanded to provide their customers with everything they need for their "resort experience".

EBW has greatly enhanced their accessory offerings of hats, hair accessories, tote and hand bags, shoes/sandals, jewelry, scarves and the like.  At the Preston Center store, the bulk of the accessory offerings can be found in "the cabana" structure located at the back of the store.

From hats to shades,  handbags to sandals and jewelry to boot. EBW offers a complete line of accessories to complete your resort look

Miraclesuit "Jena"

As promised, Brittany, was assigned to help me select an amazing swim suit. She asked me about my color preferences, what I liked and didn't like in the cut and design of a suit and then proceeded to pull options for me to try on.

I had two big obstacles for her to overcome: (1) I am short-waisted and built like a tree trunk, so I need a suit that will create the illusion of a waist, through fabric design or cut (2) I am the Mother to an (almost) 12-year old boy. He and his friends are at an age where they are starting to notice girls... and girl parts. It is not appropriate for me to wear an itty-bitty bikini around these boys. However, I still want to look stylish and cute.

I think I tried on about 20 suits: bikinis, tankinis and one-piece styles. I told her to bring it on and show me everything they had.  In the end, I came away thrilled with this selection: The "Jena" Miraclesuit in Eggplant.  A modern one-piece with side shirring that elongates the torso and minimizes the waist.

I loved it before I ever put it on because the tags said, "Look 10 lbs lighter in 10 seconds". Whoo hoo!  It's sexy and cool, but is not overly revealing. It answered all of my needs and I am now ready for any pool party!!

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Lone Star Park celebrates the Kentucky Derby (and my Birthday!)

"Don't miss the greatest two minutes in sports!" Lone Star Park's website proclaimed in anticipation of the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby.   Lone Star Park celebrated the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby, the first leg of the Triple Crown, on Saturday May 5. The crowds arrived early in the afternoon for live racing and the Kentucky Derby simulcast occurred at approximately 5:24 p.m.  Fox 4's Fiona Gorostiza kicked off the day by performing the National Anthem.  Guests also enjoyed live music featuring the Roof Raisers on the Courtyard Stage.

The Top 10 Finalists

The big excitement of the day (outside of the horses) was the Kentucky Derby Hat Contest.  Because of my experience with over-the-top hats, I was asked to participate as a judge, along with Jody Dean from KVIL/103.7 Lite FM and Steve Noviello from Fox 4 News. The competition was fierce and we were tasked to hand out prizes for "Most Stylish" and "Most Creative" with the winner's taking home a $500 prize.  There were at least 100 entries, so we had a LOT of amazing chapeaus to select from. We decided to just pick out our 10 favorites and then pick the 2 winners from that pool.  I loved that we had a handful of male entries!

The man in the photo below (yellow hat with red roses around his neck) was our winner for "Most Creative". His hat was a Kentucky Derby-themed creation and it had a clear plastic tube running through it. When he blew into the tube, confetti shot out of the top. It was so cool and very creative. How could we not pick this guy!?  The woman in the first photo on this post wearing the lavender polka-dot dress and a humungous purple hat was our pick for "Most Stylish".

On top of the Kentucky Derby celebration, it was also Cinco de Mayo and my birthday! So much to celebrate!  Thanks to the marketing and PR folks at Lone Star Park who really went out of their way to make it a super-fun day for me and my family. The best part was when they gave me a big 'ole shout out on the Jumbotron - and re-ran it about 25 times throughout the day. That was so cool! It didn't hurt that Moet de Chandon champagne was one of the sponsors and I got to sip on some delicious bubbles all day. Whoo hoo!

Click here to see a complete gallery of photos from this event.

Lone Star Park is located at 1000 Lone Star Parkway  Grand Prairie, Texas 75050, (972) 263-7223.  For more info., visit  http://www.lonestarpark.com. You can also connect with them on Facebook and Twitter.

Foodie News: Hotel Lumen unveils plans for The Front Room: A Park Cities Diner

The Hotel Lumen, owned by Headington Companies and managed by Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, announced today the first piece of a multi-phase hotel expansion that included a new three-story addition.  The second phase of the expansion, scheduled to be complete in late summer 2012, will include the conversion of the existing lobby and Hillcrest-facing space into a classic diner-inspired restaurant called The Front Room: A Park Cities Diner by Tim McEneny of NL Group and Chef Doug Brown.

rendering

The new restaurant and bar, sure to be a gathering spot for hotel guests and Dallas locals alike, will serve three meals a day and feature a modern American menu, espresso bar and handcrafted cocktails. Designed by BOKA Powell, the space will feature retro-chic touches and include indoor and covered courtyard patio seating. The restaurant’s design and décor further articulates the mid-century architecture and attitude of the hotel with key elements that include floor-to-ceiling windows, basalt flooring and walls, a modern Heath ceramic tile accent wall, and hanging globe lights.

The second phase of the expansion also includes refurnishing and enhancing the existing 54 hotel guest rooms.  During construction hotel guests can enjoy in-room dining provided by The Front Room’s catering partner.

The Lumen is located at 6101 Hillcrest Avenue, Dallas, Texas.  For more information and reservations, please call 214-219-2400 or visit www.HotelLumen.com. 

Urban Taco Takes on Brunch

It seems like every invitation I've gotten in the last month from restaurants isn't for grand openings or to come "meet the new chef". Nope, it seems like more and more restaurants are jumping on the brunch bandwagon. And to that I say, "Halleluiah! What took you so long!?"  Brunch is my favorite meal of the day. You can sleep in... enjoy a leisurely meal... preferably with cocktails... It's relaxed, fun and always yummy.

Yesterday I told you about the new brunch menu at Del Frisco's Grille. Today, I am going to take your taste buds south of the border to talk about the mouth-watering deliciousness of Urban Taco.  Let's start right up front with a disclaimer. Urban Taco is a client of my advertising agency, but I can assure you that I wouldn't write about it if I didn't truly want to recommend it to you.  And I DO want to recommend it to you.  I mean, I really don't have to write another word... just feast your eyes on these photos!

Huevos Rancheros

Kids of all ages will dig the La Jolla French Toast

Michelada Rojas and Bloody Mary’s are made with a special house-made mix that includes ingredients such as fresh horseradish root and adobo chile puree served with choice of vodka, tequila, rum or infused vodka. Bloody Mary’s are by available as individual servings as well as carafes.

Known for their modern Mexican cuisine and inspired selection of tacos, the new brunch menu features a selection of Mexican brunch favorites including Chilaquiles Rojas and Verdes, Huevos Rancheros, Egg Benedicto and Egg & Steak Torta Ahogada. Guests will also find Urban Taco’s signature taqueria options, including Eggxcellent Breakfast Tacos with a selection of Roasted Honey Ham, Carnitas Tinga, Barbacoa and Buenos Dias, all available a la carte or as a pair with choice of two sides that include: Jalapeno Potato Hash, Yogurt con Granola, Rosemary Roasted Potatoes, Frijoles Borrachos or Black Beans. The menu also features a build your own El Ommellete in addition to their La Jolla French Toast made with freshly baked sourdough bread, cajeta caramel warm maple syrup, banana souffle, strawberries and guajillo candied pecan served with a side of Mexican butter.

Click here to view a full gallery of photographs on Facebook.

Urban Taco has two Dallas locations: on McKinney Ave. in Uptown and in Mockingbird Station.  If you are into dining al fresco, visit Uptown as it has a spacious multi-level patio with TVs and an outside bar that will have you ordering cocktail after cocktail because you don't want to leave.   Did you know they also have a location in DFW International Airport? Yep. Next time you are traveling, you can stop by Terminal C/Gate 22 for some yumminess on the go.

If you looking for something fun to do for Mother's Day this weekend, this would be a great place to visit. It's not too casual but not too stuffy - and Mom will get a free entree! Urban Taco features delicious food and a fun and inviting atmosphere that the whole family will enjoy.

Connect with Urban Taco on Facebook and Twitter.  For more info. visit www.urban-taco.com.

Under the Big Top: Children's Cancer Fund Luncheon & Fashion Show 2012

The 24th Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show benefiting Children’s Cancer Fund was held at the Hilton Anatole on May 2, 2012.  "Cancer.  It is a word that can change your life in an instant," said Co-Chair Keyea Webster.  Many in the audience could relate to that statement.   Webster, along with fellow Co-Chair Lori Buschel, introduced the day's event and rallied the troops to "dig deep" for the cause.

The fashion show, produced by Rhonda Sargent Chambers, featured children undergoing treatment for cancer at Children’s Medical Center Dallas escorted down the runway by sponsors and celebrity guests such as Demarcus Ware, Mike Modano, the Dallas SWAT Team, Pat Smith, Scott Murray, Rudy Gatlin, Olympic medalist Mitch Gaylord and many more. The show was packed with energy and smiles, and these children really captured your heart.

Troy Aikman, Cynthia Smoot and Roger Staubach. Photo courtesy of Elite Appliance.

Honorary Co-Chairs, Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman, were gracious hosts, posing for photos and signing endless sports memorabilia. I was kicking myself that it hadn't occurred to me to bring something to get signed for my son. Oh well, there's always next year!  Dr. Steven Skapek spoke on behalf of the doctors, nurses and other providers who treat cancer at Children's Medical Center and said their dedication, along with the support of the Children's Cancer Fund, has helped cure more than two-thirds of children with cancer today. However, the work is far from complete, he said.  Clarice Tinsley and Steve Eagar from Fox 4 News did a fantastic job of emceeing the event.  The grand celebrity finale walk was Tony Romo and Jason Whitten who were met with cheers from the audience.

(top left) Mike Modano and Matt Nordgren  (top right) Clarice Tinsley, Steve Eager and children
(bottom left) Country music legend Rudy Gatlin with patient (bottom right) Shirin Askari with Megan Saustad

Founded 30 years ago by a group of local parents whose children were being treated for cancer at Children's Medical Center, Children's Cancer Fund has become one of the nation's leading fundraising groups in support of local research for the treatment and prevention of childhood cancers. Among the programs supported by the fund are the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Fellowship Program at Children's Medical Center and the Children's Cancer Fund Comprehensive Center for Research in Pediatric Oncology at UT Southwestern Medical Center, which is gaining a national reputation for its work in eradicating childhood cancers. In 2002, the fund initiated funding for a full-time Child Life Assistant at Children's Medical Center's Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders to help better serve its outpatient clients.