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Selecting Styles S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Style Is Profoundly Personal

Coco Chanel famously said, "Fashion changes, but style endures." Fashion can be fun, but style is something deeper. It's timeless. It's authentic. It's an expression of who we are. Think about the last time you met someone with a truly memorable sense of style. A few months ago, I accompanied my husband to his Carmel High School class reunion. In the months leading up to the event, one question came up again and again: What to wear? It seemed everyone was asking it. Friends compared outfit ideas for each reunion event, and the question became so common that the organizers even included attire suggestions in the event's FAQ. When the evening finally arrived, most people looked exactly as you'd expect. The women wore dresses or polished separates, and the men showed up in jeans paired with sport coats. It was classic "dressy casual." Then one guest walked in wearing a bright red hat and bold red glasses. He wore them with such ease, they seemed less like an outfit and more like an extension of his personality. Suddenly, he was the most talked-about person in the room. Conversations shifted from outfits to curiosity: "Who is he? What's his story?" People naturally gravitated toward him not because he was wearing red, but because he was unmistakably himself. It was a wonderful reminder that perhaps we've been asking the wrong question all along. Instead of wondering, "What should I wear?" maybe we should be asking, "What feels like me?" Better yet, "How do I want to show up in the world?" In this month's edition, we offer ideas about how to demonstrate personal styles in apparel, flooring, book selection, men's suits and even homes. Happy reading and here's to being uniquely you!

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Andrea Kulsrud | andrea.kulsrud@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Melvie Gonzales | melvie.gonzales@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Brianna Richardson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Allyson (Ally) Straczek, Julie Brown Patton, Kali Kasprzyk C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Brianna Richardson, David McClister, Rick Murray, Faith Blackwell Photography, Sarah Browning, Cailee Nace, Janie Jones, Chasey Stewart/ Stewart & Co., Logan Clark/ThynkCreative

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

ANDREA KULSRUD, PUBLISHER @ C A R M E L . C I T Y. L I F E S T Y L E Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Carmel City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Carmel area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

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

28 Featured

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Flooring Based On Fifth-Generation Knowledge

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Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

Securing Fashionable, Authentic Apparel, Accessories

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Decor Trends HOME + DESIGN

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Local’s Choice LIFE + CULTURE

Back Stage ENTERTAINMENT

Trend Setter HOME + DESIGN

Events

Fringe & Form Clothing Specialists Help Clients Build Stylish Wardrobes With Purpose

Tips From TVWorthy Suitor:

'Nothing Suits Matt Like A Suit," Proclaims Carmel's Matt Carroll Of ABC's Popular Dating Show

On the Cover In Kara Kavensky's new memoir book, Tell Me About Joy, she uses her personal writing style to share a true story of love, regret, trauma, healing and second chances. Photography: Faith Blackwell Photography

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SEPTEMBER 2026

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1: Born/raised in Noblesville, country music singer/songwriter Steve Wariner, of Nashville, has new solo art exhibit. 2: “Painting has always been a kind of therapy. It’s my sanctuary and escape:" Steve Wariner. 3: "The Flip Side: Paintings by Steve Wariner" features 60 of his works in oil/acrylic/ watercolor/mixed media. 4: Steve is first artist ever to have his artwork featured on the iconic Opry barn. 5: Bovaconti Coffee Shop, 2 West Main St., has coffee cups designed by artist Kim Lyon. 6: Carmel's Arts&Design District named one of America's Best 2026 Main Streets by House Beautiful. 7: Officer Travis Brady joined Carmel Police Department's School Resource Officers/SRU at West Clay Elementary.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Actor’s Theatre Of Indiana Names New Executive Director From Carmel

Volunteer At 2026 Carmel International Arts Festival

Darling Of New York City’s Cabaret Coming To Feinstein's

Actors Theatre of Indiana representatives appointed Carmel resident Dan McFeely as the group's next executive director. Dan, a former ATI board member and past president of the organization, replaces Jim Reilly, who's retiring from day-to-day activities. Dan, a Carmel resident since 2007, joined the City of Carmel as a media relations/communications consultant, acting as president of the Carmel Christkindlmarkt, the Carmel Clay Historical Society and ATI. He also served on the Carmel JazzFest celebration board.

The Carmel International Arts Festival returns to Carmel’s Arts & Design District on Sept. 26–27; volunteers are essential to making this beloved community event a success. More than 120 artists, numerous vendors and approximately 30,000 attendees rely on the dedication and support of volunteers. Volunteer opportunities include assisting artists with setup and transportation of materials, distributing water/supplies, greeting guests and supporting festival operations. To volunteer for the festival, visit SignupGenius.com.

Marilyn Maye, referred to as “the darling of New York City’s bustling cabaret circuit," has been a frequent performer at Feinstein’s/54 Below in New York, and is now coming to Feinstein’s inside The Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Experience Marilyn's memorable performance on Thursday, Sept. 3. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for dinner and drinks, with the show starting at 7:30 p.m.. Tickets are available at FeinsteinSHC. com or by contacting the box office at 317.688.1947.

Photography by MEG & Associates

Photography by Carmel International Arts Festival

Photography by Feinstein's At Hotel Carmichael

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Carmel 'Sister Cities' Program Wins Prestigious International Award For Innovation Carmel's sister cities program received the prestigious 2026 Sister Cities International (SCI) Innovation in Arts and Culture Award for cities with populations of 100,001 to 300,000. This honor recognizes outstanding dedication to advancing citizen diplomacy, cultural exchange and international friendship. Ethan McAndrews, author of the "CarmelKawachinagano (Japan) Cookbook," accepted the award on behalf of Carmel at the 70th Anniversary Gala and Annual Awards Ceremony during the Sister Cities International Homecoming in Washington, D.C. Photography by City of Carmel

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FABULOUS flooring finesse BASED ON FIFTH-GENERATION knowledge EF Marburger Fine Flooring Provides Craftsmanship And Integrity Rooted In A Century Of Evolution ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOGAN CLARK

Experience matters, even in floor styles: From the beginning in 1913, EF Marburger Fine Flooring specialists have furnished flooring for residents, schools, hotels, hospitals, churches, historic buildings, athletic facilities, universities and corporate offices. Their business reputation became known for following family values supported by quality materials and customized service. "We assist clients in finding the right flooring choice for their needs, as we have the most accessible and finest selection of flooring and design products in the Midwest. No flooring project is too big or small," assures Kelly Marburger Novak, president and co-operator of the company along with her sister, Kim Marburger, vice president. "We also have substantial buying power as well as dozens of trusted service resources, which means we can get just about anything our clients desire at a fair price," adds Kim. It was Kelly and Kim's great-grandfather, Eli Franklin Marburger, who launched the business. Kim’s son, Connor Mullen, joined the team in 2018, becoming the fifth generation to enter the company. Among the flooring choices that EF Marburger Fine Flooring offers are tiles, hardwoods, carpets. natural stone, area rugs, vinyls and waterproof optons, as well as countertops and cabinets. A vast number of options can be seen in their expansive showroom in Fishers. Kelly encourages clients to keep an open-mind when shopping for products. "Sometimes our clients might be fixed on a specific type of material for their space, only because they were not aware of other possibilities. I would urge them to learn about other options first and then they can always circle back to their initial idea if desired," she recommends.

D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN

EF Marburger has a helpful showroom.

Kelly Marburger Novak (left), president, and Kim Marburger, vice president, cooperate EF Marburger Fine Flooring.

Another reason to consider a variety of possibilities is that flooring has evolved significantly over the years due to advancements in technology, resources and design. Kelly says now there are thousands of options available that allow homeowners and companies to tailor their flooring selections to the styles they prefer. "Additionally, there are more versatile flooring options that can be coordinated with a variety of personal styles. For example, the wide plank European oak could be used in modern, boho, farmhouse or industrial spaces," she says. CONTINUED >

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Regarding the importance of flooring materials, colors and layout patterns to room designs, Kelly says all these factors are crucial to creating the desired space. "If the client wants to create a modern, light and airy environment, then we suggest larger format sizes with lighter colors and minimal pattern. However, a traditional cozy and quaint look would coordinate better with darker colors, or patterns such as herringbone or basketweave. However, the most important ingredient is the style of the client. We want to ensure they like the look and feel of the products that we're incorporating," she explains. To help with confirming a desired style ahead of a project, the EF Marburger showroom is a great place at which to gain ideas and see the products installed on floors and walls. Kelly says many people cannot visualize how a floor or wall is going to look based on a small swatch, so they have larger samples, displays and vignettes that can help narrow down what the client likes and dislikes. "We also have designers on-staff to guide clients through the process. Anyone who wants to start prior to the showroom visit can view our website. It has an inspiration gallery of photos and a room visualizer where they can upload photos of their own space and try out different options," Kelly says. She adds that they try to have all renovation needs under one roof, including cabinets, knobs, pulls, countertops, fixtures and area rugs, paired with designers who are skilled at pulling it all together to create cohesive spaces. Can clients have both style and functionality? Kelly says achieving both is possible but much is determined by individual lifestyles and preferences. "Some clients prefer hardwood flooring over vinyl or laminate and will be diligent about maintaining it. Other clients prefer the ease of maintenance in a waterproof floor that has a higher scratch resistance," she says. "Our job as designers is to listen to the clients and help them decide which is best for their home. A large, active family with pets will have different needs than a smaller family without pets. Additionally, there are now several hybrid wood flooring lines that merge real wood and a synthetic waterproof core. Fortunately, there are so many realistic-looking products of hardwood or natural stone, that someone can still achieve a similar look with a different product if needed." This fall, Kelly confirms there's a definite shift underway in flooring toward earthy, matte and natural looks. Taupe, greige, sage and terracotta are dominating in color, she adds. Wide plank hardwood and large format tile sizes are on the rise. Designers are incorporating more texture and patterns with carpet and area rugs as well. She predicts timeless patterns, such as chevron, geometric, animal print and tartan, will increase in popularity, as well as bulky loops and extra plush piles.

D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN

EF Marburger Fine Flooring For 113 years, the team of this family-owned company has addressed all types of residential and commercial flooring needs. Whether flooring for one room or an entire home is needed, this staff manages entire projects, from making selections to scheduling installations. Remodeling? Options for cabinets, countertops, paints, faucets, lighting and other related items are spotlighted in the company's showroom, along with expert designers to assist with planning. This team indicates they have the knowledge and relationships to obtain specialized flooring materials. They also handle large commercial projects, delivering top-quality results for some of the biggest jobs around, such as Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Hotel Carmichael and JW Marriott.

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / CA R M E L

Michele Jenae Dieckmeyer, owner of Fringe & Form in Carmel.

SECURING FASHIONABLE, AUTHENTIC APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIANNA RICHARDSON

FRINGE & FORM CLOTHING SPECIALISTS HELP CLIENTS BUILD S T Y L I S H WA R D R O B E S W I T H P U R P O S E Fashion is fun, and trends can certainly be inspiring. But trends are only valuable if they help you express who you are, declares Michele Jenae Dieckmeyer, personal stylist, purposeful wardrobe coach and owner of Fringe & Form, an elevated women's clothier in Carmel. "At Fringe & Form, we believe clothing should support your life, not complicate it. Whether you're building a professional wardrobe, preparing for retirement, traveling more, navigating a life transition or simply wanting to feel more confident, the goal isn't to own more clothing. It's to own the right clothing," she asserts.

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

CONTINUED >

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FRINGE & FORM Michele Dieckmeyer, Fringe & Form founder, says wardrobe dressing means "moving away from buying isolated outfits and instead building a collection of pieces that you love, ones that work together in groupings. Most women don't need more clothing. They need clothing that works harder, and in conjunction with each other. I encourage women to think about how a new piece integrates into what they already own. Can it be dressed up or down? Can it travel? Will it work for multiple occasions? When wardrobes are intentional, getting dressed becomes easier, shopping becomes more purposeful, and you ultimately buy less while wearing more of what you own. This affords many women the luxury and ability, without guilt, to buy higher quality clothing, pieces they love, that last."

"CONFIDENCE COMES BEFORE CLOTHING. CLOTHING SHOULD SIMPLY HELP REFLECT THE WOMAN YOU ALRE ADY ARE." 20

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

Michele says she and the Fringe & Form team at 736 Hanover Place, Ste. 100b, intentionally curate collections that work across different ages, body types, lifestyles and budgets, because every woman deserves to feel seen. "We help women invest in themselves by building wardrobes with purpose; pieces they'll love wearing season after season, pieces that will last." For this upcoming fall, Michele predicts for women, a beautiful mix of rich, sophisticated colors will be popular. Burgundy and deep oxblood continue to be very strong, along with chocolate brown, olive, espresso, charcoal, warm camel and deep navy, she says. Rich shades of purple, from plum and aubergine to blackberry, also will make a strong statement this season, offering a beautiful alternative to traditional fall neutrals, she reminds. Soft, muted blues continue to emerge as a fresh alternative to black, while jewel tones, such as deep teal and forest green, add richness without feeling overly trendy. For men, many of these same colors will carry over this fall: navy, olive, chocolate, charcoal, camel, burgundy, deep greens and rich plum accents. Michele says the overall palette should feel timeless and versatile, making it easy around which to build a wardrobe. On a national basis, key fall looks are being described as moody maroon, suede, leather bomber jackets, sheer layering pieces and cocoon-like silhouettes. "I think we'll certainly see those same fashion influences this fall," agrees Michele. "Burgundy is proving to have remarkable staying power, and suede and leather continue to add richness and texture to fall wardrobes. Cocoon silhouettes also offer comfort while creating an interesting architectural shape." However, Michele is quick to remind women that trends are meant to inspire, not dictate. "The best wardrobe isn't built by chasing every trend. It's built by selecting the pieces that complement your lifestyle, body and personal style," she states. CONTINUED >

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Some national fashion leaders indicate certain looks will be about the feminine versus tough contrast of pairing floaty, ultra-feminine ruffled or sheer tops with structured, straight-leg trousers, seemingly "borrowed from the boys." "Contrast is one of the strongest themes we're seeing," Michele states. "Pairing something soft and feminine with something structured creates balance and visual interest. A romantic blouse with tailored trousers, a silk dress with a leather jacket, or delicate jewelry worn with a menswear-inspired blazer all create a sophisticated look that feels modern without being overdone," she explains. Sheer sleeves, lightweight overlays, mesh layering pieces and subtle transparency add texture and dimension without feeling revealing. Michele says she expects women will embrace the elegance of these fabrics while styling them in ways that fit their everyday lives. Regarding sweaters and cardigans, Michele believes some geometric patterns and updated takes on classic argyle will occur, but she doesn't think they'll define the 2026 autumn season. "Many women today are investing in quality pieces they'll enjoy for years, so beautiful knitwear with interesting textures, luxurious fibers and timeless styling will continue to have broad appeal. Patterns are fun, but versatility is what most women ultimately appreciate," she adds.

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

In specialty retail, seasonal clothing collections are purchased many months in advance. Indeed, Michele says she purchased the fall and winter 2026 collections for the boutique in January and February. "We carefully curate collections from primarily European designers and many family-owned brands known for exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Rather than buying based solely on trends, we intentionally select collections that work together across seasons and offer something for women of different lifestyles, body types, ages and personal styles," she says. Rather than one specific item sought after each season, Michele says Fringe & Form clients look for items based on their lifestyles and where they are in life: "A working professional may be updating her wardrobe for the office, for example, while someone who is retired may be looking for elevated casual pieces or versatile travel clothing." Michele says what all the boutique's clients have in common is that they're investing intentionally. "They're looking for pieces that are comfortable, beautifully made, flattering and versatile enough to wear in multiple ways. We spend a great deal of time helping women identify the gaps in their wardrobes and build around what they already own, rather than encouraging unnecessary purchases." She concludes, "Our goal isn't to dress every woman the same; it's to help every woman find pieces that feel authentically like her."

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LOVE, MEMORIES, HEALING ARTICLE BY ALLYSON (ALLY) STRACZEK

NEW BOOK 'TELL ME ABOUT JOY' CELEBRATES LOVE, RESHAPES AUTHOR'S UNDERSTANDING OF RESILIENCE AND GRATITUDE Kara Kavensky / Photo by Sarah Browning

LOCA L’S CH OICE | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Book author Kara Kavensky (standing) with the lovebirds joyfully reunited after 67 years apart: Bob and Joy.

“I strive to share stories like I’m sitting with my best friend.” Tell Me About Joy is a memoir revealing how an extraordinary reunion of lost love turned into hope, healing, purpose and enduring joy. As a journalist and previous Carmel resident, Kara Kavensky was assigned to write a human interest article on WWII veteran Bob Albright. After her second visit to Bob’s home, she says she knew the experience would become a book. “At the time, that feeling started out as a tiny whisper, but I accepted it as fact. Here’s a life hack: When a widowed, nonagenarian WWII veteran asks that you find the love of his life, you say 'yes,'” Kara excitedly explains. Bob, a smart and charming veteran, told Kara his greatest life regret was not proposing to and marrying the love of his life, Joy. He hadn't spoken to her in 67 years. While Kara's assignment was to write a cover story about Bob, this opportunity turned into something far beyond what she could have imagined for Bob and herself.

Joy

Kara recalls leaping into the mission to reunite two lovers while navigating a broken marriage and losing hope in her own life. Not only would Bob and Joy's reconciliation reunite the lovebirds, but the journey also allowed her to reflect on love, healing and her own path forward. Sarah Hart-Unger, MD, author of Best Laid Plans, believes, “Readers (of Kara's new book) will feel immersed in carefully researched historical details, but also swept away by emotion, experiencing the author's pain and hard work toward recovery. The author gets vulnerable in sharing the inner workings of her toxic marriage while she works magic in bringing joy (literally!) back into a veteran's life.” “Until writing my memoir, everything I wrote was created for others. I've written in another’s voice and celebrated the work of someone else,” explains Kara. “Writing human interest stories or business advertorials is very different from writing a personal essay or memoir. My superpower is humanizing businesses, and while I still do this work, I extend my concept of ‘humanizing’ into everything I write, including this book.” Old-World habits and newer technology helped tell the story of Joy and Bob. “I have a habit of journaling, which proved beneficial in writing my memoir since I have notes from nearly every visit with Bob and Joy,” says Kara. “This enabled me to piece together my memoir chronologically. However, it still took me years to write it since I was still living my part of the memoir. Sometimes, ideas come to me at the most inconvenient times, like in the middle of the night, in line at the grocery store, or driving, so I relied on technology to manage these interruptions to my day.” CONTINUED >

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Kara believes each person has a unique lens through which they see the world. “Voice is a combination of someone’s perspective with their level of curiosity, vulnerability and honesty. I like to know someone’s background so I understand their voice from their experiences. I believe I express truth through observation and emotion.” “Stories that resonate with me the most are the ones told as if I'm sitting next to the author,” says Kara, who now lives in the Nora/Meridian Hills area. “What I strive for in my personal writing style is to share stories like I’m sitting with my best friend.” Without Bob seeing the author as a friend, his hope of a second chance with Joy might have been lost forever. Before writing Tell Me About Joy, Kara says she felt gratitude every day, but now that gratitude has multiplied, she leans into how people feel. “I want everyone around me to feel loved and appreciated,” she shares. When readers finish the new book, Kara hopes they realize it’s never too late for love, regardless of age. “Healing from narcissistic abuse is possible. I want people to hope. Joy is something we can welcome into our lives by design. There’s no other way. We must open ourselves up to receiving joy, in all its magical forms.” Tell Me About Joy officially launches Sept. 8, but is available to pre-order where books are sold. Additionally, Kara’s podcast, Record Scratch with Kara, celebrates more inspirational stories of resilience.

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tips from TV-worthy suitor: 'Nothing Suits Matt Like A Suit," Proclaims Carmel's Matt Carroll Of ABC's Popular Dating Show Carmel resident, industrial real estate broker and The Bachelorette Season 22 suitor Matt Carroll says while he's certainly not a fashion expert, he's developed a real appreciation for classic menswear. "One thing I've learned is confidence starts with feeling comfortable in what you're wearing. Whether walking into a boardroom, speaking on stage or attending a wedding, how you present yourself says something before you ever speak," he affirms. Carmel City Lifestyle asked Matt about his distinct observations regarding suits.

HOW DO YOU APPROACH SELECTING A SUIT? BASED ON FIT, FABRIC, COLOR, THE FUNCTION?

"It always starts with the occasion, but fit is everything. A well-fitting suit is less about fashion and more about how you present yourself. As my career has grown to include more speaking, media and client-facing opportunities, I've become much more intentional about my wardrobe. I view clothing as an investment in my personal brand. The fit, color, fabric, shoes and accessories all work together to create a strong first impression."

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHASEY STEWART

B ACK STAGE | ENTERTAI N ME N T

YOU'RE 6'8". HOW DO YOU ENSURE A TAILORED FIT? ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER TALL MEN?

"Being 6'8", finding clothes that fit has never been easy. There are really two options: buy a quality off-therack suit from a place like Bonobos and have it tailored or work directly with a custom clothier. Both can be great depending on your budget. For everyday clothing, Banana Republic's Tall line and American Tall have become favorites of mine. My biggest advice is never skip tailoring. For taller men especially, those small adjustments make all the difference."

HOW DID YOUR SLOGAN, "NOTHING SUITS MATT LIKE A SUIT" COME ABOUT?

"It was a tagline the producers came up with for me on the show. It stuck, and I embraced it because it reflects something I've genuinely come to appreciate: a great suit communicates confidence, professionalism and respect before you ever say a word."

WHAT SHOULD THE TYPICAL GUY BUDGET FOR SPENDING ON SUITS? HOW MANY SUITS ARE IDEAL?

"I'd rather own four or five great suits than 15 average ones. A navy, charcoal, light gray and one seasonal option will cover almost every occasion. Whatever your budget, don't overlook tailoring, it's often what makes the biggest difference. If you wear suits regularly for work or public events, they're not just clothing, they're an investment in how you present yourself."

WHAT WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? HOW HAS THAT STYLE EVOLVED OVER YOUR LIFETIME? "I'd describe it as classic, clean and intentional. When I was younger, I paid more attention to trends. Today, I appreciate timeless pieces that fit well and never go out of style. I'm always learning, and the more I do, the more I realize style isn't about following trends, it's about presenting the best version of yourself."

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO TURN A 'DECENT' SUIT INTO A 'PERFECT' ONE?

"Tailoring, without question. I'd also say shoes are incredibly underrated. A great pair of shoes, along with the right tie and pocket square, can completely elevate a suit. It's attention to the small details that brings the whole look together."

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THE NEW RULES

Modern Home Style PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK HOME OF RYAN AND HILLARY BADER

For years, the rule was simple. Pick a palette, pick an aesthetic, and let it carry through every room. The all-white kitchen led to the allwhite living room led to the all-white everything. That era is over. The most interesting homes right now are doing something braver. They’re letting each room hold its own mood. What ties them together isn’t a single look. It’s the materials they keep coming back to: warm brass, sculptural lighting, marble, stained wood, and quiet neutrals holding it all together. We toured one home that gets it exactly right, and pulled out ideas worth borrowing.

4. WARM MODERN The all-white kitchen meets warm wood. Cream cabinetry stays, because the light it gives you is hard to beat. But the island gets a stained wood treatment that grounds the whole space. Brass pendants and hardware add glow. Velvet stools soften the lines. This is the kitchen the next decade is building toward.

5. THE JEWEL BOX Small spaces, big swing.

1. RESORT ENERGY Outdoor rooms designed with the rigor of interiors. This isn’t a backyard. It’s a destination. From the lined-up lounge chairs to the scalloped umbrellas to the green-striped pillows repeating across the deck. The lesson here is to stop treating outdoor furniture as an afterthought. Pick a palette and commit.

2. SCULPTURAL CALM One bold gesture in a quiet room. Everything in this great room is whispering, from the cream walls to the linen sectional to the chandelier’s delicate brass rings. And then a tree, reaching toward the coffered ceiling like it grew there on purpose. When the rest of the room is quiet, the boldest thing you can put in it is something alive.

Antiqued mercury glass, a brass faucet, fluted glass cabinets, golden pulls on crisp white shakers. The idea is to treat your tucked-away corners (bars, powder rooms, butler’s pantries) as the place to take your most theatrical swing. The smaller the room, the bolder you can be.

6. COLOR COCOON Saturated color in rooms meant for rest. Deep sage-spruce walls, ivory bedding, an antiqued mirror catching the shutter light. Proof that calm doesn’t have to mean beige. Color, used right, is the most restful thing you can put in a room. Find your shade and let it hold you.

7. BUILT FOR PLAY Rooms that don’t apologize for being fun.

Dark dining rooms are back, and better than ever.

A game table under a crystal chandelier. A leather club chair next to a telescope. A theater tucked in around the corner. The best entertaining spaces are the ones built for actual use, not just for looking at.

Bold taupe walls, an oval black table, sleek chairs, and an oversized round mirror standing in for art. The bright, airy dining room had its decade. Now bring on the supper club.

Different rooms, different moods, one home. The new rule, it turns out, is that there doesn’t have to be one.

3. MOODY MODERN

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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 1 ST, 2 N D, 8TH , 10TH , 15TH , 17TH , 2 2 ND, & 24 TH

Movies At Midtown Midtown Plaza | 6:00 PM Grab lawn chairs/blankets for fun-filled evenings including Kernels popcorn cart. Showtimes are at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays, or noon and 6 p.m. on Thursdays. Sept 1 and 3 movie: Dora and the Lost City of Gold; Sept. 8 and 10: Monsters Inc.; Sept. 15 and 17: The SpongeBob Movie: Search For SquarePants; Sept. 22 and 24: Sonic The Hedgehog 3. SE PT E M BE R 2 N D

Summer Family Concert City Hall Gazebo | 7:00 PM This concert in Carmel is a beloved community tradition that brings residents together for free, family-friendly live music. These complimentary concerts ensure that arts and culture remain accessible to everyone, strengthening community connection and celebrating what makes Carmel a unique place. SE PT E M BE R 1 1 T H

9/11 Ceremony Of Remembrance: The 25th Anniversary Carmel Clay Freedom Circle Veterans Memorial | 8:30 AM Honoring the Legacy: Twenty-five years ago, heroes rose to meet the unthinkable. On this landmark anniversary, attendees at 400-498 American Way N in Carmel, will remember the brothers and sisters lost on Sept. 11, 2001. Together, for one hour, we stand to honor their bravery and carry their light forward into the next generation. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H

Chinese Mooncake Festival Midtown Plaza | 6:00 PM Enjoy a colorful Dragon Parade starting at 6 p.m., followed by traditional Chinese performances, food vendors and cultural demonstrations from 6:30-8:30 p.m. This family-friendly celebration highlights Chinese culture and traditions through performances, food and interactive experiences for all ages. Guests also can enjoy mooncakes, a traditional pastry that has become a symbol of celebration, unity and togetherness. SE PT E M BE R 2 5T H

Coffee On The Monon Midtown Plaza | 6:30 AM Coffee on the Monon offers a chance for trail users to enjoy a free cup of coffee while connecting with neighbors along the Monon Greenway. Coffee stations will be set up in Midtown from 6:30-9 a.m. Complimentary coffee is provided by Just Love Coffee Cafe for a friendly start of the day, whether commuting, exercising or simply enjoying the trail. SE PT E M BE R 2 6T H - 2 7TH

2026 Carmel International Arts Festival Carmel Arts & Design District at Main Street and Rangeline Road | 10:00 AM This free, rain-or-shine event features more than 130 juried artists, international performances, the ART ROCKS street party and family-friendly activities. Saturday hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Main Stage until 7:30 p.m., followed by ART ROCKS until 10:30 p.m.). Sunday hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can use free municipal parking lots and garages surrounding the district.

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C A R M E L

EVE N TS

YEAR OF THE HORSE

CHINESE MOONCAKE FESTIVAL

CITY OF CARMEL

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER

Parade

6:00 p.m.

Festival

6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Midtown Plaza

FREE

• Dragon Parade • Music

#ExperienceCarmel

• Dancing • Mooncakes

carmel.in.gov

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Your story matters When Bridget noticed something felt off, she spoke up about her health — and it made all the difference in her cervical cancer journey. Now, she and Caitlin Clark are working together to inspire others to do the same.