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Chatham & Short Hills, NJ September 2026

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The Style Issue S T Y LE + B E AUT Y

A FRESH TAKE O N ST YLE

S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6


Schedule your design consultation online or by phone 407 Springfield Avenue, Summit Eatontown | Manhasset | Paramus | Summit

KOHLERbyGPS.com | 908.376.0030


Step into GLAZE Salon and experience beauty that goes beyond the mirror.

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Whether you’re seeking a transformative haircut, flawless makeup, dimensional color, extensions, or a full glam moment, our stylist’s artistry and intuitive touch make every visit unforgettable. Relax in our chic lounge with a coffee, explore our curated boutique, and indulge in our full menu of services. Book your appointment today and let us elevate your everyday!

“I love all the services at Glaze Salon and have been going to Andrea for years! It’s so hard to find someone who can do blonde!“ - Andrea B.

“Eric is the BEST! He always gives me the perfect cut and color! Never disappoints! The entire team at Glaze is always friendly and accommodating!“ - Michelle J.

Find the Right Service & Book An Appointment Today! www.glazesalon.com | 973-701-0099

V@glaze.salon.nj | 7 Townsquare, Chatham, New Jersey


LIFESTYLE LETTER

Letter from the Editor

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Christine Kosakowski christine.kosakowski@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Bri Rooks | bri.rooks@citylifestyle.com

Welcome to the first issue of Chatham + Short Hills City Lifestyle under our ownership! We're Christine Kosakowski and Bri Rooks, and we're thrilled to share our very first Style Issue with you. As September arrives, so does the excitement of a new season. Whether you're heading back to school, starting a new job, launching a business, or simply embracing a fresh chapter, this time of year is all about new beginnings. Inside this issue, you'll discover local businesses that help you look your best, create beautiful spaces, and feel confident every step of the way. To us, style is more than what you wear; it's how you live. From thoughtfully designed homes to inspiring local boutiques and the people behind them, this issue celebrates the businesses shaping the style and spirit of our community. We're also excited to introduce several new faces and businesses that have recently joined Chatham, Short Hills, and Millburn. We hope you'll take the time to visit them, support them, and experience everything they have to offer. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes. We feel honored to share the stories that make our community so special and can't wait to continue celebrating the people and places that make it thrive. Follow along on Instagram @chathamshorthillscitylifestyle for more local stories and behind-the-scenes moments. BRI ROOKS, EDITOR @ C H AT H A M S H O R T H I L L S C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Paul Kosakowski | paul.kosakowski@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Gabriel Rhodes | Gabe_rhodes@grproductions.tv C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Bri Rooks, Samantha Ricci, UNTUCKit, Bart Glab

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Chatham & Short Hills City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Chatham & Short Hills area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect

Visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C H AT H A M A N D S H O R T H I L L S

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Chatham & Short Hills City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.


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

14 Featured

14 18

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Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

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WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Beyond the Trends

Style that lasts, curated by people who know fashion best.

Experience The Difference, Literally Whatever the project, expect honest pricing and hands-on craftsmanship delivered every single time, guaranteed.

A Better Fit For Everyone

From a too-big shirt to 90 stores, including Short Hills, the country's top performer.

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

Business Monthly

12

City List

14

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

18

Home Update HOME SERVICES

24

Must See LIFE + CULTURE

26

Local’s Choice SHOPPING

28

Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE

30

Trend Setter STYLE + BEAUTY

32

Events

34

Inspired By STYLE + BEAUTY

On the Cover Jeff Lasota and Danielle Licata inside Curio's new Chatham location, where thoughtfully curated fashion meets personalized style. Photography: Gabriel Rhodes

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With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.


SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1

2

3

BRI ROOKS

4

PAUL KOSAKOWSKI

5

BRI ROOKS SAMANTHA RICCI

6

BRI ROOKS

7

SAMANTHA RICCI

SAMANTHA RICCI

1: Chatham welcomes iCode to the community, a business focused on STEM education. 2: All smiles at Sorriso Kitchen. There's something for everyone on their menu. 3: Great coffee, great company at T.M. Ward Coffee, serving Chatham since 1869. 4: Another talented artist at The Artist's Loft Hair Studio captures a great cut. 5-7: The Life Millburn grand opening welcomed guests, founder Paige Koff, and food from La Pergola.

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ C H AT H A M S H O R T H I L L S C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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C I T Y SC E N E


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

COREFIRE Opens Its Doors in Chatham Chatham welcomes COREFIRE to the community! More than just a gym, COREFIRE is a place to build strength, confidence, and connection. With expert coaches and a supportive, judgment-free environment, every workout is designed to help you achieve your goals. Visit CoreFire at 246 Main Street and follow @corefirenj.chatham on social media to stay connected.

Photography by Bri Rooks

Gather Brings Timeless Style to Millburn This thoughtfully curated boutique features antiques, original art, unique gifts, and interior styling services. From one-of-a-kind finds to personalized color consultations, every piece is selected to help make your home feel uniquely yours. Whether you're searching for the perfect finishing touch or inspiration for your next design project, visit Gather at 311 Millburn Avenue.

Photography by Bri Rooks

FINE ITALIAN FOOD PREPARED WITH LOVING ATTENTION TO DETAIL. OUTDOOR GARDEN DINING NOW OPEN

LUNCH • DINNER • BYOB • CATERING • PORTOFINOSRESTAURANT.COM 29 Mi l l s S t Morristown • New Je rs ey 0796 0 • 973 - 5 40- 0026 10

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY


Aroma'z Home Brings Dream Spaces to Life Since 1967, Aroma'z Home has been helping homeowners create beautiful, functional spaces. From flooring and carpeting to custom cabinetry, kitchen and bathroom renovations, and interior painting, Aroma'z offers comprehensive home improvement solutions under one roof. Whether you're refreshing a single room or planning a full renovation, their experienced team is ready to help bring your vision to life. Learn more at @aromazhome.

Photography by Bri Rooks

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 H AT H A M A N D S H O R T H I L L S

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PICKS FOR

BER

’S TOP

BU S NE

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SS

ES

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

EM

CITY LIST

SE PT

the

R OU

Best Home Decor Store Quartet https://quartetchatham.com/ | 973.665.8200 Short Hills Marble & Tile shorthillstile.com/ | 973.376.1330 K+CO Goods https://kandcoliving.com/ | 973.220.2171 GATHER https://www.exploregather.com/ | 908.977.1702 Aroma'z Home https://www.aromazhome.com/ | 973.899.2026

Best Vintage Stores Anywhere Vintage 201.953.0232 DoubleTake Luxury Consignment dbltkeboutique.com/ | 973.564.6464

Want to suggest a monthly pick? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ C H AT H A M A N D S H O R T H I L L S

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C I T Y LIST

The Blue Iris Designer & Vintage Boutique theblueiris.boutique/ | 908.574.3035 Summit Antique Center thesummitantiquescenter.com/ | 908.273.9373 Georgia's Peach shopgeorgiaspeach.com/ | 908.517.3753


Compassionate Counsel. Strategic Solutions. Guiding You Through Life’s Hardest Moments With Strength, Strategy & Compassion

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Divorce, Custody & Parenting Time Special Discovery Master Mediation & Arbitration

 www.favalawnj.com

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Alimony & Child Support

 Division of Assets  Palimony Claims  Appellate Matters

Prenuptial Agreements Domestic Violence Matters  www.favalawnj.com

inquiries@favalawnj.com

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BEYOND ARTICLE BY BRI ROOKS PHOTOGRAPHY BY GABRIEL RHODES

the

TRENDS

Style that lasts, curated by people who know fashion best. Jeff Lasota and Danielle Licata didn’t stumble into fashion; they built their eye for it over years in the industry’s biggest rooms. Before founding Curio together, Jeff held leadership roles at brands like Stella McCartney, Belstaff, and Yeezy, while Danielle ran point as president of Coterie, one of the largest fashion trade shows in the country. When the two partners launched their own venture in Miami in December 2019, it was with a 360-degree understanding of what the industry was missing—a shopping experience built on discovery and relationship, not just transaction. What started as a pop-up during Swim Week gave them the confidence to open a permanent Miami location, which quickly grew into a flagship that established Curio’s name in the industry. From there, the brand expanded to Southampton, New York, and when it came time to open a third location, New Jersey felt like the natural choice. Jeff, who now calls Westfield home, and Danielle, who grew up in Holmdel, both found a homecoming in opening Curio’s Chatham location, a way to honor the roots that shaped them long before the shop existed. They chose a location built for the same intimate, relationship-driven retail that first defined their vision. It was a spot chosen outside the mall ecosystem on purpose, favoring a setting where the store could feel like it belonged to the community around it, not just to the brand. That philosophy is immediately apparent the moment you step inside. Curio isn’t set up for a quick transaction; it’s built for

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

a conversation. Customers can book an appointment or walk in Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and from there, the experience is entirely personal. Instead of being pointed toward whatever’s trending, you’re guided by a team that treats styling as a genuine collaboration. That’s the real heart of Curio: a styling philosophy designed to gently push you outside your comfort zone. The staff become part stylist, part sounding board, helping you navigate the insecurities everyone quietly carries about their style and guiding you toward looks you might never have chosen on your own. Nothing here is disposable or trend-chasing. Instead, every piece is selected to build a wardrobe that actually lasts; versatile, considered, and made to evolve with you rather than expire with the season. Good style isn’t borrowed from a trend cycle. It’s built, piece by piece, with someone who actually knows you. But great style isn’t just discovered in the moment; it’s built long before a customer ever walks in. That groundwork starts with Jeff and Danielle themselves, who spend a significant part of the year on the road, hunting down the pieces that will eventually fill Curio’s racks. It’s a process as deliberate as everything else about the brand. Less about keeping up with what’s already popular, and more about staying a step ahead of it. What that looks like in practice, and how it shapes the experience of shopping at the Chatham location specifically, starts with a passport.


“Good style isn't borrowed from a trend cycle. It's built, piece by piece, with someone who actually knows you.”

CONTINUED >

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“Styling isn't about pointing someone toward what's already popular. It's a Every great find at Curio starts long before a customer ever walks through the door. Jeff and Danielle travel to New York, Milan, and Paris four times a year, sourcing a mix of established designers and emerging labels most shoppers haven’t discovered yet. It’s a deliberate strategy, one built to recreate the kind of browsing experience longtime shoppers remember from Barney’s, where half the joy was finding something you didn’t know you needed. That same intentionality shapes what actually lands on the racks in Chatham. Inventory here is curated specifically for the local audience, a different assortment than what you’d find at Curio’s other locations, tailored to the climate and lifestyle of New Jersey rather than simply mirroring the Miami flagship. The store also runs on a rotating inventory model, so the selection is always evolving, punctuated by brand-specific activations that turn shopping into an occasion rather than an errand. That same personal touch extends well beyond the sales floor. Curio maintains a network of affiliate stylists who work independently with their own clients, building custom clothing packages tailored to each person’s specific needs and lifestyle. It’s an extension of the same philosophy that defines the Chatham store itself, styling as a genuine relationship, built on trust and expertise, rather than a single transaction driven by whatever happens to be trending that week. That’s what sets the experience apart. You’re not shopping a trend cycle someone else defined. You’re working alongside people who’ve spent their careers inside the industry, using that expertise to help you figure out exactly what belongs in your closet. Every recommendation comes from real knowledge of fashion, not a passing algorithm or a seasonal display. Curio isn’t asking you to chase trends. It’s asking you to slow down, trust the process, and let your style be built rather than borrowed. Step inside the Chatham location, and you’ll discover that it’s much more than a clothing store. It’s the beginning of a thoughtfully curated wardrobe and a personal style that’s uniquely your own.

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

relationship, one built on trust, expertise, and genuinely knowing what makes a person feel most like themselves, no matter the season.”


Curio’s styling suite is available by appointment for those who want a more dedicated, one-on-one experience. Whether you’re building a wardrobe from scratch, refreshing what you already own, or simply looking for guidance on a specific occasion, the team is equipped to meet you exactly where you are. It’s the kind of personalized attention that’s become increasingly rare in retail, and it’s entirely intentional. Curio is located at 76 Main Street in Chatham. To book a styling appointment or learn more, visit shopatcurio.com or find them on Instagram at @curiovibe. Your wardrobe and the relationship that shapes it start here.

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EXPERIENCE THE Difference, Literally

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H OM E U P DAT E | HO ME SE RVICE S


WHATEVER THE PROJECT, EXPECT HONEST PRICING AND HANDS-ON CRAFTSMANSHIP DELIVERED EVERY SINGLE TIME, GUARANTEED.

ARTICLE BY BRI ROOKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BART GLAB

Bart’s construction experience started long before MKG Homes existed. At 15, he began building houses alongside his uncle, learning the trade hands-on, board by board. It was great work and a family bond that gave him a skill set and a love for construction that never left him. That foundation resurfaced in an unexpected way during the COVID-19 pandemic, when homeowners across New Jersey suddenly wanted one thing: a deck. Bart built one after another, and what started as a steady stream of projects turned into something bigger. In March 2021, he made it official, registering MKG Homes and setting out to build a business that would be passed on from generation to generation. In his first year alone, he completed twelve projects. Five years later, Bart has grown from carpenter to general contractor, but one thing hasn’t changed: every deck is still personally built by Bart himself. No shortcuts, no handing the work off to crews. For larger general contracting projects, he oversees a trusted team of licensed subcontractors, hands-on at every phase to ensure the same level of quality, craftsmanship, and accountability from start to finish. That same hands-on instinct extends into how he runs every project, addition or space alike. Rather than starting with a fixed price, Bart starts with a conversation. He asks clients directly what their budget is, then lays out exactly what that budget will get them, down to the cost difference between material tiers. It’s an uncomfortable question to ask, he admits, but one that saves clients from sticker shock later and keeps every project honest from day one. For additions and larger builds, Bart brings in a trusted network of licensed electricians and plumbers he’s worked alongside for five years, professionals he trusts enough to let into a client’s home. It’s a small detail, but it speaks to how he runs his business; personally, carefully, and with total accountability for every hand that touches a project. CONTINUED >

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Photographed by Bri Rooks

Behind every project Bart takes on is a philosophy that’s less about construction and more about trust. Ask him what sets MKG Homes apart, and he doesn’t talk about materials or price points first; he talks about communication. “I don’t ignore anybody,” he says. Even on my busiest day, I always make sure to get back to my clients. Every Sunday, active clients receive a status update outlining exactly what’s ahead for the week. It’s a small habit, but one that’s built a reputation: when Bart asks past clients why they hired him, the answer he hears most is that he was simply the most responsive. That same commitment to transparency shows up most clearly in his contracts, all 36 pages of them. Nothing is left assumed. From the materials being used down to where equipment will sit on a client’s lawn during a project, everything is spelled out in advance. “There are no surprises, no hidden tactics,” Bart explains. “Everything’s agreed upon.” It’s a level of detail he’s built over years of watching other contractors leave gaps that turn into disputes later, and he’d rather over-communicate than leave anything to chance. That instinct for doing things the right way traces back further than MKG Homes itself. He and his family immigrated from Poland when he was a child, in search of more opportunity in the

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H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E SE RVICE S

United States. His father worked two jobs to build a life for his family, and that work ethic left a lasting impression. “My father worked hard, so I don’t have to work as hard,” Bart says, “and I’m working hard, so my kids don’t have to work as hard.” Today, that legacy is already taking shape in his own home. His eight-year-old son mimics him with a hammer every chance he gets. His thirteen-year-old daughter is already learning the marketing side of the business, with Bart hoping she’ll one day step into a MKG leadership role of her own. Family, he says, will always come first, but the business and the family have learned, over time, to support each other rather than compete. As MKG Homes continues to grow, Bart’s ambitions are shifting beyond decks and toward larger builds, additions, renovations, and more complex projects that let him f lex the full range of his craft. Growth has never changed Bart’s approach. Every project is still guided by his craftsmanship and personal attention. Ask him to sum up his business in three words, and he doesn’t hesitate: “Experience the difference.” For Bart, that’s not just a slogan. It’s a promise. Follow Bart on social media @mkghomes to see his latest projects and transformations.


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ARTICLE BY BRI ROOKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLIVIA KOSAKOWSKI

Celebrating Community, Inspiring Connection Every business has a story. Ours began with a simple "yes."

Some stories begin with a place that has always felt like home. For Christine, that place is Madison. Her husband, Paul, grew up there, and his family has been part of the community for generations. Today, their children proudly carry on that legacy as fifth-generation Madisonians. After owning a wedding invitation business, Christine saw an opportunity to create something the community was missing. A gift boutique where finding the perfect present felt just as special as giving it. What started as a small pop-up shop in her living room grew into The Pink Pear, a boutique built on the belief that shopping should be an experience, not just a transaction. Over the years, The Pink Pear has become more than a store; it’s become a place where friendships are formed, milestones are celebrated, and community comes first. Bri’s journey to New Jersey looked a little different. Growing up in a small town in Vermont, she moved here to attend Drew University, where she studied Media & Communications and English. During the pandemic, she watched many

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M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE

local businesses struggle to connect with customers and realized she could help. She began reaching out to small businesses, offering social media and website support. After hearing more than a few “no’s,” one business owner finally said “yes.” That business was The Pink Pear. What started as one opportunity six years ago grew into a partnership built on trust, creativity, and a shared passion for championing local businesses. Together, we’ve celebrated grand openings, supported entrepreneurs, navigated challenges, and watched dreams become reality. Earlier this year, we met Alison Lukin and Kim Cera, the local owners of Eastern Morris and Greater Morris City Lifestyle magazines. As we learned more about the City Lifestyle mission, we knew it aligned perfectly with what we already loved doing. When the opportunity arose to become the new local owners of Chatham + Short Hills (now including Millburn) City Lifestyle, we knew it was a journey we wanted to take together.

“Jus t as Chris tine's " yes" changed the cour se of Bri's career, we hope this magazine becomes a " yes" for our communit y ! ”


Our vision is simple: to create more than a magazine. We want these pages to celebrate the people, businesses, nonprofits, and events that make our community such an extraordinary place to call home. We believe every entrepreneur has a story worth telling, every local business deserves to be seen, and every community member has something that can inspire others.

Just as Christine’s “yes” changed the course of Bri’s career, we hope this magazine becomes a “yes” for our community. A yes to supporting local, discovering new businesses, celebrating big dreams, and connecting neighbors through meaningful stories. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes. We can’t wait to tell your stories. We hope every issue inspires you to shop local, connect with neighbors, and discover someone new. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C H ATH A MA N D S HO RT HI L L S

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A Better Fit For Everyone From a too-big shirt to 90 stores, including Short Hills, the country's top performer. Back in 2011, Chris Riccobono had a simple problem. He needed a shorter shirt. A medical sales rep at the time, he’d had a dress shirt tailored down to fit and found himself in New York City’s Fashion District trying to get it made right. What started as a personal fix turned into a business idea and a hunch he wasn’t the only guy dealing with it. He brought the concept to Aaron Sanandres, a friend from Columbia Business School. Most of Chris’s business ideas had been met with a polite “no.” This one, Aaron didn’t even let him finish pitching before saying yes. Raising money proved harder. Even his father’s friends were skeptical. A shorter shirt didn’t sound like a business venture. But Chris had done his homework, and nearly every man he’d surveyed had the same issue with shirt length; they just didn’t talk about it. The early years were humbling. The product wasn’t quite right yet; buttons fell off, fit was inconsistent. It took nearly three years to perfect what became UNTUCKit’s signature silhouette, the same fit the brand sells today. The first store opened in Soho in 2015, and by 2019 the brand had grown to more than 90 stores nationwide, becoming one of the fastest-growing men’s brands in the country.

ARTICLE BY BRI ROOKS PHOTOGRAPHY BY UNTUCKIT TEAM

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LOCA L’S CH OICE | SHO PPIN G

Along the way came moments Chris still can’t quite believe, like the week Leonardo DiCaprio stopped by the Soho store three times. Matthew McConaughey and Warren Buffett are fans, too. It’s moments like these that remind you just how far a product can reach. Among UNTUCKit’s 90-plus store locations nationwide, the Short Hills Mall location stands out above the rest. Every year, it’s the brand’s top-performing store in the country. For Chris, it’s a full-circle moment. The Franklin Lakes native now lives in Madison, just minutes from the Short Hills store that outperforms every other UNTUCKit location in the country. The success isn’t an accident. UNTUCKit’s entire identity is built around consistency. Every garment undergoes rigorous quality control at the factory, where it’s measured, inspected, and shrinktested every step of the way. The payoff is a shirt that fits the same

Photography provided by UNTUCKit. Pictured: Chris Riccobono


Photographed by: Bri Rooks

way every single time you buy it, in sizes ranging up to 4X and covering 97% of men. That obsession with fit has carried well beyond button-downs. UNTUCKit now offers pants, polos, T-shirts, sweaters, and womenswear, along with the performance shirt line the brand is especially known for. Chris isn’t stopping there. He recently co-founded Greatness Wins, an athletic and golf apparel brand with Derek Jeter, already sold at nearby courses including Baltusrol and Somerset Hills. The first Greatness Wins retail store is set to open in Berkeley Heights, inside The Park, a new development off Route 78.

Photography provided by UNTUCKit. Pictured: Chris Riccobono, Brock Bowers, and Derek Jeter

From a too-big shirt in the Fashion District to a national brand with a devoted following, Chris Riccobono’s story is a reminder that the best ideas often start with solving your own problem. And for local shoppers, there’s a little extra pride in knowing the very best UNTUCKit store in the country is right in our backyard.

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A LATE SUMMER/EARLY FALL TREAT

APPLE CIDER

sangria

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H AP PY H OU R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

As the season transitions into fall, it still features the warm, sunny days of summer but nights start to drop into the crisp temperatures. That leaves us in the limbo of wanting cool, refreshing drinks part of the time but also craving the deeper, spice-infused flavors of autumn. This recipe for apple cider sangria is the perfect blending of the seasons, leaving you feeling both refreshed and warmed through the deep flavors and interesting hints of spice. It’s a great drink to add to any dinner party, cocktail gathering, back deck after-hours get-together, or birthday bash. Here’s what you need to make the perfect mid-season cocktail to enhance whatever event you have planned.


ARTICLE BY ALLISON BANKSTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • • • •

Combine all ingredients together and stir. Refrigerate for an hour or so (or longer) before serving. The drink can be enjoyed immediately, if desired, but the longer you let the ingredients sit and mix, the deeper the flavors will be. Giving it time to develop will make the drink more captivating and interesting.

1 bottle, standard size, of pinot grigio 2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider 1 cup club soda 1/2 cup ginger brandy 3 honey crisp apples, chopped 3 pears, chopped

NOTE: Regular brandy can be used, but ginger brandy gives it an extra kick of flavor.

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ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Wear Colors That Truly

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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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

WE D N E S DAYS

Library of The Chathams: Mahjong Club 214 Main St, Chatham | 1:00 PM Join fellow Mahjong players every Wednesday at 1 p.m. for a friendly afternoon game together. SAT U RDAYS

Chatham Borough Farmers' Market Railroad Plaza, Chatham | 10:00 AM Shop local at Chatham's weekly market. Don't miss the special Sustainability Market on September 19th. SE PT E M BE R 1 8T H

Coffee with the Chamber - Millburn + Short Hills 1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills | 8:00 AM The Chamber's signature monthly networking event, welcoming up to 50 attendees for a relaxed morning of coffee and connection. It's the perfect opportunity to build relationships, expand your network, and support fellow members' success. SE PT E M BE R 1 8T H

Chatham Community Players: The Thanksgiving Play 23 N. Passaic Ave, Chatham | 8:00 PM A laugh-till-you-cringe satire following four well-meaning creators as they try to write a culturally sensitive Thanksgiving pageant. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H

Swingin' Tern Contra Dance 200 Main St, Chatham | 7:00 PM Live music and a caller guide this lively social dance for all ages. No partner or experience needed. SE PT E M BE R 2 6T H

Cora Hartshorn Arboretum Fall Family Campout 324 Forest Drive South, Short Hills | 6:00 PM An overnight family adventure — pitch a tent, enjoy a home-cooked meal, and roast s'mores under the stars.

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 H AT H A M A N D S H O R T H I L L S

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EVE N TS


TRADE TRAFFIC FOR TIDES READY TO EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES ON LONG BEACH ISLAND?

The crowds have thinned, the beaches are peaceful, and the sunsets are as spectacular as ever. If you’ve been dreaming about owning a home on Long Beach Island, now is one of the best times to explore what’s available.

ALISA MOLBERT, ABR®, RSPS C: (732) 718-0039 | O: (609) 494-7272 ext: 1103 amolbert@zackshore.com | www.longbeachislandlistings.com

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

deliveries subscriptions events weddings

www.wildlyfloral.co 9 Scotland Rd. South Orange, NJ Markets available nationwide. Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMALEE RATHSAM

MORE THAN

a Bag

A BLEND OF FASHION AND FUNCTION A purse does more than hold your phone, keys, and wallet. It quietly pulls an outfit together while also handling the practical side of everyday life. That balance between fashion and function is what makes a great purse feel less like an accessory and more like part of a personal style. Some bags are designed to stand out. A bold color, metallic detail, or structured shape can instantly become the statement piece of an outfit. Even with simple jeans and a white T-shirt, the right purse adds personality and intention. Other times, a purse

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I NSP IR E D BY | STYL E + B E AU T Y

works best when it blends in. Neutral tones, soft leather, or minimalist designs create a polished look without stealing attention from the rest of the outfit. These subtle bags are often the ones people reach for every day because they work with almost everything. Of course, style only goes so far if a purse is impractical. The best bags are the ones that fit real life. A roomy tote helps someone move from work meetings to errands without missing a beat. Even a small clutch has a purpose for evenings out when only the essentials matter.

Fashion trends may change every season, but the role of a purse stays the same. It adapts while still serving a purpose. That’s why people often invest in bags they truly love. A good purse is dependable, but it also can make a fashion statement. In many ways, a purse is one of the few accessories that people use every single day. It carries necessities, reflects personal style, and can completely change the tone of an outfit. Whether bold and eye-catching or simple and understated, a purse proves that fashion and function can exist beautifully together.


50 YEARS P R O U D LY C E L E B R AT I N G

I N O U R CO M M U N I T Y

11 BRANDS. ONE TRUSTED AUTO GROUP.

EXPERIENCE THE

PAUL MILLER

DIFFERENCE

V I S I T U S AT PA U L M I L L E R . CO M

PA R S I P PA N Y | W E S T C A L D W E L L | WAY N E | PA R A M U S | B E R N A R D S V I L L E | E A S T H A N O V E R | P I N E B R O O K


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