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S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

September - Fashion & Style Issue

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Christian Owen | christian.owen@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Kit Garrott | kit.garrott@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Jeannie Tabor | jeannie.tabor@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Lindsey Tonkin | lindsey.tonkin@citylifestyle.com

Style is such an extraordinary part of life—it’s far more than the clothes we wear or the accessories we choose. Style is woven into every detail of our existence, from the way we decorate our homes to the art and music we enjoy, the books we read and even how we interact with the world around us. It’s the unique thread that creates the tapestry of who we are. What makes style so captivating is that no two expressions of it are exactly alike. It evolves alongside us as we discover new passions, embrace our quirks and celebrate the experiences that shape us. Style becomes a reflection of our story—one that doesn't need words to make an impression. Here in the River City, we're surrounded by inspiration. From locally owned boutiques and talented makers to musicians, artists and designers who help define our city's creative spirit, style is everywhere. It's found in the homes we create, the hobbies we pursue and the way we choose to express ourselves each day. In this issue, you'll discover stories that explore how personal style influences music, creativity, collections and the thoughtful ways River City residents accessorize ourselves and our homes. My hope is that these pages inspire you to embrace what makes your own style uniquely yours—not because it's on trend, but because it's authentic. Here's to celebrating creativity, individuality and the confidence to be unapologetically yourself. Cheers!

P H OTO E D I TO R

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

Amy Golden SAL E S D I R E C TO R

Malise Culpepper | malise.culpepper@citylifestyle.com M AR K E T S U P P O RT D I R E C TO R

Morgan Zanone | morgan.zanone@citylifestyle.com M AR K E T S U P P O RT M AN AGE R

Anna Gsanger | anna.gsanger@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R

Margaret Ledbetter AC C O U N T M AN AG E R S

Jeff McMillen | jeff.mcmillen@citylifestyle.com Melissa Ellis Smith | melissa.smith@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Jo-Ellen Sharpe STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Bonner Morgan INTERN

Campbell Jenkins

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson

LINDSEY TONKIN, EDITOR @ R I V E R C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E M AG A Z I N E

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 River City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed

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via the US Postal Service to some of the River City area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect 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 River City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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

48 Featured

18 42 48

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Let the Music Play The Magic of Chamber Music

Common Thread A Memphis needlework shop stitches together creativity, connection and community.

Designer Notes Patterns at Play

Lifestyle Letter

Back Stage ARTS + CULTURE

Fashion Forward SHOPPING

Maker’s Studio ARTS + CULTURE

Decor Trends ARTS + CULTURE

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House Call STYLE + BEAUTY

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On the Cover Two stylish River City residents, Cindy Gambrell and Colleen Canale, share a peek into their personal accessory collections in The Art of Accessorizing. Photography: Sarah Voigt

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B ACK STAGE | ARTS + C U LT U RE

THE MAGIC OF CHAMBER MUSIC

Artistic Director Victor Santiago Asunción

ARTICLE BY MARGARET LEDBETTER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY SWAN

LET THE

MUSIC PL AY While Memphis is considered the birthplace of rock and roll and a pillar of the blues, there is another notable music force in town. Chamber music is having a moment. Memphis Chamber Music Society (MCMS) has been staging concerts of local ensembles and international artists in private homes and gallery spaces for over 30 years. CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R C I T Y

Founded in 1989 by Marsha Evans, a former Rhodes College piano teacher, and currently helmed by Artistic Director Victor Santiago Asunción, MCMS hosts world-class chamber musicians in a series of performances each season with a loyal following of fans and supporters. The great masters of classical music—such as Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms—did not merely compose music for large symphony orchestras. They also wrote works for smaller ensembles and intimate venues. Ensembles may include strings, keys and wind instruments. With infinite combinations, the music is designed for short-range acoustics, allowing audiences to hear the grit of a bow hitting a string or the keys clicking on a piano in addition to the melody. In the absence of a conductor, the line between the stage and the audience completely blurs. The small space transforms an elite art form into a deeply personal, shared social experience. “Music lovers love to hear beautiful music,” says Marsha and, these performances unleash all the emotions. “The performances offer a personal touch. It’s chamber music in the setting for which it was written,” says MCMS board member Shirley Turner. Each performance is exciting and unpredictable like a recording session. The musicians may meet just days before a performance such as with the

B ACK STAGE | ARTS + C U LT U RE

“MUSIC IS BEAUTIFUL AND POWERFUL; A HUMAN CONNECTION WITHOUT WORDS; EACH PART HAS AN OPPORTUNITY TO B E R E A L LY H E A R D.”

2025-2026 season finale at David Lusk Gallery. By invitation, four musicians came together, rehearsed once or twice, and unleashed a performance unlike any other. Set amidst a collection of paintings by Memphis native Burton Callicot, the energy was electric. Victor, pianist as well as Artistic Director, compared the experience to a “blind date”- a little chaotic and full of energy. It’s a masterclass in active listening. The players are entirely on their own, acting as both soloists and accompanists, feeding off one another. The rapt audience speaks to the power of the art and its ability to stir emotion and memory. Violinist Eric Gratz shares,

“music is beautiful and powerful; a human connection without words; each part has an opportunity to be really heard.” The upcoming 2026-2027 season begins in September. Six new concerts are planned for the 38th season, including a performance titled “Heart and Soul” at the new Metal Museum in Overton Park and a variety of works in private homes. Each concert is unique under Victor’s thoughtful direction. Enjoy this vibrant, accessible art form that reflects Memphis’ spirit of collaboration, grit and soul. For more information or to purchase tickets for upcoming performances, visit memphischambermusic.org.

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THE

Art of

AC C E S S OR I Z I NG

Clara Kasavina bag. Castlecliff pearl and stone earrings and necklace. Orange and red Bakelite pins.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | S HOPPIN G

Colleen Canale's pin and brooch collection.

C i n d y G a m b re l l a n d C o l l e e n C a n a l e s h a re a p e e k i n t o t h e i r personal accessor y collections. ARTICLE BY KIT GARROTT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH VOIGT

At Kittie Kyle, jewelry is never just an afterthought. For Cindy Gambrell and Colleen Canale, pins, brooches and bold statement pieces are the secret ingredients that turn an outfit into a conversation starter. Their collections are a kaleidoscope of color and craftsmanship, each piece chosen for its spark, be it an unexpected design, a flash of beautiful material, a family tie or simply a story too good to leave behind. CONTINUED >

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Clara Kasavina handbags. Larry Vrba bracelet and earrings.

Butterfly and eye pieces by Ellen Macomber from New Orleans. 1950s Schiaparelli earrings, necklace and bracelet from Cindy's husband’s grandmother.

Turquoise Clara Kasavina bag. Larry Vrba earrings with pearls.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | S HOPPIN G

“I love that pins and brooches can give an outfit personality and a sense of history,” Canale says. “They are a piece of wearable art that can make even a classic blazer, button-down, hat, scarf, sweater or dress feel more individual and collected rather than simply ‘put together.’” For Canale, collecting is an extension of her personal style, which she describes as “colorful, feminine, playful.” Brooches give her another way to experiment. “They allow me to be a little more creative and playful with what I wear,” she says. “A brooch gives me a way to take something classic and make it feel like me.” Gambrell is drawn to pieces that invite a closer look. “I’m drawn to pieces that have a story, whether it’s the history of the piece, the inspiration behind the designer or even the journey it’s taken over time,” she says. “That sense of meaning makes a piece truly special to me.”

Behind Cindy’s Collection CLARA KASAVINA

Amy Kahn Russell pieces.

Gambrell’s photographed handbags are by Clara Kasavina, who launched her handbag collection in 1994. The company continues to design and handcraft its handbags, jewelry and belts in Long Island City, New York, using models and molds created by her husband, Misha.

AMY KAHN RUSSELL

That sentiment is especially evident in her oldest piece: an oval bronze pin with a purple stone worn by her great-great-great-aunt on the sash of her wedding gown in the early 1900s. “It’s likely costume jewelry, but its family history and sentimental value make it one of my most treasured pieces.” Her collection also includes a Schiaparelli set that belonged to her husband’s grandmother in the 1950s, alongside an eclectic mix of designer jewelry and handbags. Yet Gambrell follows no strict formula when wearing them. “I usually choose pieces based on my mood, my outfit or that one special piece that I want to highlight,” she says. For both women, the joy is in making something beautiful feel personal. Canale loves her vintage floral enamel pins, wearing them individually or layered together. “It’s fun to play around with them and create a different look each time.” For Gambrell, the perfect piece has “quality craftsmanship, good condition, character and history.” Ultimately, their collections prove that accessorizing is about more than completing an outfit. Each piece adds another layer of personality, creativity and story.

These western-inspired pieces combine sterling silver, mixed metals, pearls, fossils, natural minerals and semiprecious stones. Inspired by her travels and fine arts background, Russell creates individually designed, wearable works of art.

CASTLECLIFF

The red, gold and pearl pieces date to the iconic New York jewelry house founded in 1918 and reflect its signature bold, sculptural style.

SCHIAPARELLI

The 1950s necklace, bracelet and earring set pictured belonged to Gambrell’s husband’s grandmother.

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R C I T Y

Building a Strong Foundation Navigating financial decisions begins with experience, clarity, and a focus on your goals. Reach out to your hometown advisors— serving the River City for 40 years with tailored, client-focused financial advice.

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A new, structured introduction to partnering with River City Lifestyle.

• Six monthly insertions

Consistent exposure. Elevated storytelling. Long-term impact.

MARCH

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• Thoughtfully designed creative, tailored to your brand • Introductory pricing credited toward a long-term partnership

2 02 5

GET IN TOUCH J U LY 2 02 4

S E P TE M

B E R 2 02

BOTANICAL JEWELS

LIZ CROSBY STUDIO

P E TA L S R E I M A G I N E D AS WEARABLE ART

ARTICLE BY JEANNIE TABOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH VOIGT

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

“BOLD COLORS, PARTICULARLY PURPLE, ALWAYS FIGURE IN MY WORLD, WHETHER IN MY HOME, CLOTHES OR ACCESSORIES.”

Some businesses start with a plan. Liz Crosby’s started with a bucket of hydrangeas and a birthday party. A Memphis resident for thirty years, Crosby grew up in Richmond, Virginia, in a family that loved gardening, flowers and art. That lifelong love of nature and creativity laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Liz Crosby Studio Botanical Jewels. The path there began on a whim in the spring of 2025, when Crosby entered a flower show competition through her garden club. The show included a botanical arts division, where entrants built intricate pieces entirely from dried and preserved plant materials. Crosby had never done anything like it, and she was immediately hooked. Soon, she could not take a walk without filling her pockets with leaves, acorns and seed pods, certain it could all be turned into something beautiful. By her second competition this past spring, Crosby found herself stuck on a design and took a break to play with dried hydrangeas saved from her son Jack’s rehearsal dinner. The blossoms seemed made for earrings. She experimented with paints, sealants and glues, producing several pairs to test out. She wore a set to a friend’s caftan-themed birthday party, matching the painted petals to her dress, and the compliments that followed convinced her there might be a real market for her work. CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R C I T Y

Months of trial and error followed as Crosby refined her pieces to be sturdy enough to protect such delicate material. Each blossom is handpainted on both sides, sealed, fitted with hardware, cured for a full day and finished with a coat of resin for lasting durability. Hydrangeas remain her favorite medium since they dry so easily, though she plans to experiment with other flowers. For now, Crosby is focused on earrings, with hopes of expanding into necklaces, bracelets and rings as she perfects new techniques. She especially loves custom color matching and sees brides and bridesmaids as a natural fit for her designs. “I hope that those who wear these flowers will enjoy that they are preserved from nature and find joy in the color,” Crosby says, “wear them for special occasions or just for whimsy to enhance your T-shirt and jeans.” Beyond the studio, Crosby’s life reflects the same love of color and the outdoors that shapes her jewelry. Crosby says, “Bold colors, particularly purple, always figure in my world, whether in my home, clothes or accessories.” Crosby credits her friends and family for encouraging her to pursue this new creative chapter, one blossom at a time. Follow her on Instagram @lizcrosbystudiobotanicaljewels to learn more about opportunities to purchase her earrings, including a pop-up home show in September.

“I HOPE THAT THOSE WHO WEAR THESE FLOWERS WILL ENJOY THAT THEY ARE PRESERVED FROM NATURE AND FIND JOY IN THE COLOR.” 32

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | ARTS + CU LT U RE

The right audience isn’t defined solely by demographics— it’s defined by lifestyle. Financial Professionals and Legal Advisors Looking to build lasting awareness among an aligned audience? We’d welcome the opportunity to create a strategy tailored to your goals. River City Lifestyle is read month after month by homeowners, business leaders and community-minded families who value quality, meaningful relationships and a well-lived life. A six-month partnership gives your brand the presence it deserves and turns familiarity into trust with an engaged audience. Let’s create something remarkable—together. GET IN TOUCH

Image provided by: Interior Design by Varner Macaskill Interiors LLC New York, Tennessee | varnermacaskillinteriors.com

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If These Walls Could Talk

Heirloom fabrics, scarves and cherished keepsakes are stepping out of storage and into the spotlight. ARTICLE BY LINDSEY TONKIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH VOIGT

D E C OR T R E N D S | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Some of the most meaningful pieces in our homes may not be hanging on the walls. They’re carefully folded in drawers, tucked into cedar closets or packed away for safekeeping, waiting for the next generation to rediscover them. Increasingly, however, those cherished textiles are finding new life through custom framing, transforming family keepsakes into statement pieces for the home. Whether it’s an heirloom quilt, a vintage Hermès scarf, a handwoven tapestry or a treasured garment, framing textiles adds warmth, texture and personality to a home in a way traditional artwork simply can’t. “It’s about preserving memories while creating something beautiful to enjoy in your home,” says Marc Young, owner of Frame Corner. “People are realizing that some of their most meaningful possessions don’t belong in a box or a closet—they deserve to be seen.” Young has framed everything from sports jerseys and christening gowns to Peruvian masks, Japanese kimonos and prized Hermès scarves. Each piece tells a story, and thoughtful framing allows those stories to become part of a home’s design. Luxury scarves remain one of the most requested framing projects. Their bold patterns and vibrant colors naturally lend themselves to oversized frames, instantly becoming statement pieces in living rooms, bedrooms and dressing areas. A silk scarf collected on vacation or received as a gift becomes more than an accessory; it’s artwork with a personal history and a beautiful reflection of personal style. CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R C I T Y

Vintage christening gowns, wedding veils, bonnets and baby dresses preserve precious family milestones and can be a daily reminder of our own story. Sports jerseys commemorate championship seasons or a bucket-list trip. Antique textiles and handmade embroidery celebrate craftsmanship from generations past. Even three-dimensional objects like ceremonial masks or woven artifacts can be displayed in custom shadowboxes, adding depth, interest and global character to a room. Each piece carries a story that deserves to be shared. Proper conservation and preservation, something Young and his staff do impeccably at the Frame Corner, is important when working with delicate fabrics. Archival mounting techniques and acid-free materials protect fibers without permanently altering them. UV-protective, museum-grade glass helps minimize fading while allowing every intricate stitch, weave and detail to remain visible for years to come. Whether collected around the world or passed down through generations, treasured textiles deserve more than safekeeping. They deserve to be seen outside of the cedar closet, celebrated and woven into the story of our homes. Perhaps walls can talk after all.

“People are realizing that some of their most meaningful possessions don’t belong in a box or a closet—they deserve to be seen.”

D E C OR T R E N D S | ARTS + CU LT U RE

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R C I T Y

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Timing

Residential Real Estate Drop-Ins Feature Your Listings Monthly

• Space is reserved in advance. • Materials and paperwork are due by the first of each month prior to the issue.

A Note On Positioning

These placements are intentionally streamlined in layout and listingfocused. For those looking to build a broader presence, we also offer long-term programs designed for more customization as well as consistent visibility and brand recognition. GET IN TOUCH

Our Residential Real Estate Drop-Ins are designed to highlight individual listings in a clean, elevated format within River City Lifestyle. These placements offer a polished way to showcase available properties.

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COMMON THREAD

Sarah Adams, owner of Stitchers, and Winnie (seated)

A Memphis needlework shop stitches together creativit y, connection and communit y. ARTICLE BY JEANNIE TABOR

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Walk into Stitchers Memphis on any given afternoon and you’re likely to find a group gathered around the large white kitting table in the back, comparing thread colors and swapping stories about their latest projects. For owner Sarah Adams, that scene is the whole point.

“THIS is why this shop is so important to our community.” Adams left a career in the medical field to purchase the local needlework shop, and she says the decision came down to something simple: stitchers need a place like this in their lives. “The ability to come into a store filled with threads, fabrics, charts and canvases you can see and touch is really a singular type of experience,” she says. That philosophy shaped a recent shop renovation. Adams and her husband, John, overhauled the lighting, removed the window coverings and gave up retail space for something they consider more valuable: a dedicated room for open stitching and classes. Adams remembers exactly when she knew the space would become more than a store. On the second day the shop was open, she looked up from the register to find a crowd of stitchers gathered at the back table, trading threads and swapping project photos like old friends. “There it is,” she remembers thinking. “THIS is why this shop is so important to our community.” The shop now hosts monthly classes for beginners and beyond, brings in out-of-town teachers for specialty and finishing instruction and even opens its doors for the occasional Mah Jongg game.

The customer base has also been shifting. Adams has noticed a wave of younger stitchers coming through the door, including college students who travel from out of state to restock supplies or pick up their first project. She credits social media, especially TikTok, with much of the surge in interest over the past year and a half. Many of the new stitchers, she says, are looking for exactly the opposite of what got them hooked online. “We hear countless stories of stitching saving people from doom scrolling and hours ‘wasted’ on their phones,” Adams says. Lila Gsanger, a University of Tennessee student from Memphis, is part of that younger wave. She picked up cross-stitching in a high school art class, and she was hooked. “One class assignment turned into years of passion that continues to grow,” she says. She has also found a way to merge the craft with her love of fashion, stitching her finished pieces onto anything in her closet she deems too “plain”- looking. There’s a wellness angle to the craft, too. A professor from a local university once told Adams that the repetitive hand and eye coordination involved in stitching mirrors EMDR therapy, a technique used to CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R C I T Y

“We hear countless stories of stitching saving people from doom scrolling and hours of ‘wasted’ time on their phones.” treat trauma. It’s a detail that tracks with what she hears from customers every day: students stopping in for stress relief between classes, teachers grabbing a project before recess, healthcare workers picking up something to work on during a break. Above all, Adams keeps coming back to one word: community. Stitchers bring birthday donuts to the shop on weekends, show off finished projects and occasionally bring in an “oops” piece to mourn together. Regulars who haven’t been in for a while get a check-in call. Last April, the shop threw its first birthday party, complete with a food drive and giveaways. “My favorite thing about our birthday

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

party is that it was filled with so many faces of our community,” Adams says. Stitchers Memphis carries an extensive range of threads, including silks, metallics, wools and specialty options like painted silk, along with needlepoint canvases from designers across the country and fabric for cross-stitch in hand-dyed and stock colors alike. The shop hosts monthly trunk shows, sends pieces out for professional finishing and sends its owner to industry markets each year to source what’s new. For Adams, though, the inventory is secondary to what happens around it. “Community is the WHY behind Stitchers Memphis,” she says.

VOICES FROM THE STITCHING COMMUNITY

Stitchers Memphis regulars share what keeps them coming back to the kitting table.

Linda Dombroski “Needlepointing has exploded over the last few years. In this day of everything digital and the constant social media bombardment, people of all ages are turning to needlepoint to get off their phones and disconnect.”

Terri Sanders “I love the relaxing nature of needlepoint and how you end up with a project that will last for generations.”

McKenzie Sandifer “I started needlepointing during my freshman year of college nearly four years ago, and it quickly became my favorite way to unwind after a long day.”

Katie Walsh “Needlepointing brings together people from all walks of life. It is a way to build community in a town that thrives on unity. Memphians are unique, authentic and creative.”

Kristi Johnson “The needlepointing community is like Memphis — rich, poor, black, white, immigrants, long-time residents, patriots, rebels — all kinds of people. All coming together for a common purpose.”

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Designer

Notes Pattern Play

ARTICLE BY AMY BIRDSONG GOLDEN

H OU SE CA LL | STYL E + B E AU T Y

Baylor Pillow, BEEP Design

BAYLOR PILLOW, BEEP DESIGN CO. Caroline Lovelace, Lovelace Studios. Photography: Sarah Voigt Photography

Caroline Lovelace, Lovelace Studios. Photography: Sarah Voigt Photography

“Mixing patterns comes down to three things: color value, pattern scale and the mix of prints themselves. Billy Baldwin said you must think about how a room makes an item look, then how that item makes the room look—true for fabrics too. In a favorite client’s parlor, a huge floral takes geometric cut-velvet pillows with ease. On a midcentury sectional, though, another large floral wouldn’t work—it’d feel like trying too hard. Create a composition: consider where your eye lands first, and what plays nicely with it. Colors should be roughly the same intensity, though a fun pop with the volume turned up keeps things feeling real, not overdecorated. Too perfect, and a room turns neurotic. As a rule, we want things to be cousins, not twins.”

CAROLINE LOVELACE, LOVELACE STUDIOS

Tara Engelberg, Tara Felice Interiors. Photography: Amy Lamb of Nativehouse Photography

“Pattern doesn’t have to mean bold or over the top. The lion medallion wallpaper is neutral, color wise, but has amazing pattern—it brings personality to a bathroom that would otherwise feel toned down. Same with the kitchen tile: it’s not overly colorful, but if we’d only used white tiles in that pattern, it’d feel flat. Pattern plus repeat and color creates a true showstopper. I’m a more-is-more girl when it comes to scale, leaning toward larger patterns, then peppering in smaller scale for balance. I don’t have a formula; I just keep trying combinations until they feel right. I want people to make bold decisions—I’ve never had a client regret it.” CONTINUED >

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Hathaway Holmes and GCD Interiors

TARA ENGELBERG, TARA FELICE INTERIORS “For this powder room, I wanted to create a space that felt immersive, unexpected, and a little bit theatrical for a color loving client with big personality. I loved the idea of taking a traditional floral and giving it a more modern attitude. Rather than pairing it with another bold print, I let the wallpaper be the star, bringing in contrast through the other elements. The antique-inspired gilt mirror introduces an ornate, sculptural quality against the busy floral, while the simple striped linen towels offer a quieter, graphic counterpoint. The lacquered vanity adds a crisp, contemporary edge, its reflective finish creating tension against the traditional chintz and gilt mirror. I love this tension between traditional and modern—it gives the room a sense of timelessness, creating a layered aesthetic that endures beyond any single trend.”

HATHAWAY HOLMES AND GCD INTERIORS Hathaway Holmes and GCD Interiors

H OU SE CA LL | STYL E + B E AU T Y

“I always start with a ‘star of the show.’ For this project, that star was a bold animal print, and everything else grew from there. We pulled in textures that can hold their own—a nubby bouclé to soften the edges, buttery leather to ground it. Then patterns: a subtle stripe, a soft geometric, each chosen for how its scale plays against that original. I’m watching for the call-and-response—a matte finish quieting a high-shine silk, a rust tone from the print echoing in a wool throw across the room. Layer that against the architecture and how light moves through the space, and that’s what sets the tone. This mood board was part formula, part feeling. That mix of structure and instinct is what makes a space feel truly their own.”

Anna Lattimore Interior Design. Photography: Ross Group Creative

Meg Johnson Design

ANNA LATTIMORE, ANNA LATTIMORE INTERIOR DESIGN

“We started with the pomegranate block print on the dining windows, then repeated it as pillows on the sectional to move the color and pattern around the space—that’s what creates balance. The scale is bold enough to hold its own against the navy cabinetry, wood ceiling, and big windows, and that magenta just shimmers against the navy grasscloth walls, pulling your eye through the room. Reigning in color while varying scale is really what makes patterns work together. There are 11-plus fabrics in this room, but it still feels calm and cozy. One tip: don’t feel like you need to match colors exactly—use different shades within your palette to add depth. Once everything’s installed, that variety is a good thing.”

Anna Lattimore Interior Design. Photography: Ross Group Creative

MEG JOHNSON, MEG JOHNSON DESIGN

“Every room begins with something that sparks joy for my client. Here, after pulling a few samples, she was instantly drawn to the willowy trees in the wallpaper, reminiscent of the live oaks that line her Mississippi Gulf Coast hometown. From that anchor, I layered in as much color and pattern as possible. The mix feels curated but playful: an abstract floral on the iron stools, animal print on her grandmother’s cane egg chair, a natural sisal rug, plus a vintage Suzani tapestry and watercolor shibori linen. Scale is key to blending—start with a large motif, then move from large to small—but texture is important. A floral and a stripe are always in the mix.”

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Accent Jewelers, Generations of Trust A second generation is honoring Accent Jewelers’ legacy while creating new traditions for Memphis families. For nearly four decades, Accent Jewelers has earned the trust of Memphis families by helping customers celebrate life’s biggest milestones and preserve the memories behind their most treasured pieces. Founded in 1989 by Webster Smith as a wholesale jewelry company providing manufacturing, restoration and repair services to retail jewelers throughout the region, the business steadily expanded into precious metal buying and supplying estate jewelry to independent jewelry stores across the Southeast. At the end of 2023, the second generation stepped into ownership, with Webster’s daughters and their husbands taking over daily operations while investing in technology, renovating the showroom and preparing the company for the future. While Accent Jewelers has evolved over the years, its guiding principles have remained unchanged. Built on a foundation of honesty, fairness and exceptional craftsmanship, the business has always been about more than buying and selling jewelry. Every interaction is an opportunity to help customers celebrate milestones, restore treasured heirlooms and preserve family stories.

ARTICLE BY MORGAN ZANONE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

LOCA L’S CH OICE | LO CAL SE RVICE S

That philosophy stems from a lesson Webster instilled in his daughters, Audra Bass and Wendy Jenkins: “Every customer matters.” Whether someone walks through the door with a luxury Rolex or a single inherited gold ring, the Accent team believes every piece deserves the same level of care. Helping customers preserve those stories, or begin new traditions, remains one of the most rewarding parts of their work. As leadership transitions to the second generation, that customer-first mindset continues to guide every decision. Audra and Wendy say Accent’s reputation has been built “over thousands of conversations across the counter,” treating every customer with honesty and respect, whether purchasing an engagement ring, restoring a family heirloom or selling inherited jewelry. While investing in technology and growth, the family remains equally committed to preserving the relationships that have defined the business since 1989.

That commitment is reflected in Accent’s newly renovated showroom in the lobby of the iBank Tower in East Memphis. Inspired by Art Deco design, the refreshed space enhances both the customer experience and behindthe-scenes operations. COO Will Bass says the redesign “gives us more room to showcase jewelry, creates a more comfortable shopping experience, improves security and simply makes visiting Accent feel special. People celebrate some of life’s biggest milestones with us, and we want the space to feel worthy of those moments.” Accent is also strengthening its ties to Memphis through a new partnership with the University of Memphis as the school’s official jeweler and gold buyer. CEO Steven Jenkins says the collaboration was a natural fit because “Accent Jewelers has been

Steven and Wendy Jenkins, Audra and Will Bass

part of the Memphis community for decades, and the University has played an enormous role in shaping this city. Both organizations share similar values: community, tradition, excellence and investing in the future of Memphis.” Looking ahead, the partnership will extend beyond jewelry. “Fans can expect officially licensed jewelry that allows them to celebrate their Tiger pride in a more meaningful way, from everyday wearable pieces to premium collectibles and commemorative designs,” Steven says. “Beyond jewelry, we’re looking at opportunities involving athletes, coaches, alumni, special events, autograph appearances and creating experiences that fans simply couldn’t get before. We’re just getting started.” The owners believe their greatest achievement isn’t simply longevity, but the trust they’ve built with Memphis families. “Businesses like ours don’t exist for nearly forty years without loyal customers who choose to support local businesses and trust us with some of life’s biggest moments,” they say. “We’re honored that so many families have made Accent part of their stories, and we look forward to serving Memphis for generations to come.”

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Thrifting in Style HOT SPOTS FOR THRIFTING IN MEMPHIS AND BEYOND

ARTICLE BY ANNA GSANGER AND RUBY GSANGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH VOIGT

Ruby Gsanger: "My favorite thrifting find is a cool silhouette on a shirt."

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Savannah: "I enjoy exploring and shopping at the Memphis Vintage Market."

Thrifting has been a part of the cultural zeitgeist in the United States since the 1960s, but it has exploded in the last 15 years. Chances are that in the past month you have been thrifting, a young person in your life has asked to go thrifting or you have seen a reference to thrifted items on your social media feed. It is an activity that is both environmentally sound and economical and delivers the joy of discovering one-of-a-kind items. The current prominence of thrifting is driven by many factors; however, the overwhelming driver has been Generation Z (born 1997-2012). In fact, Worldmetrics reports that Gen Z is responsible for a 30% year-overyear increase in thrift store visits since 2019. Thrift stores are a great place to look for unique finds and pieces that can be refinished and made your own. At thrift stores, you rarely find two things that are the same. This makes thrifting an amazing way to revitalize old trends and revisit fads from 20 years ago. All at a fraction of the cost. Gen Z shoppers aren’t the only generation driving the renewed interest in thrifting: over two-thirds of Millennials (born 1981-1996) shop at thrift stores monthly and Generation X (born 1965-1980) thrifts with their children 50% of the time. While the majority of thrifting is for clothes, shoppers also look for books, furniture, decor and accessories. Furnishing a dorm room or your first apartment? A thrift store is an ideal place to find items to bring your style to life. In Memphis, the thrifting scene has grown exponentially, and young people are adopting thrifting as their weekend activity, whether in local stores or markets. Memphis has a great culture for thrifting, and thrift stores in Memphis are affordable- where else can you find tank tops for $2.99, shirts for $5.99 and jeans for $7.99? Here are some top destinations in Memphis: • Goodwill in Carriage Crossing has amazing furniture and household items. It is particularly fun to sift through their selection of knick knacks for yourself or for a gift.

• Goodwill on Winchester Pike is home to high quality, refined pieces. One Memphis teen says, “There is always so much to look through there!” The more you look, the more you find. Your effort is reflected in the treasures you bring home. • City Thrift on Summer Avenue is a one-stop-shop for every day basics with a unique flair. The shoe selection here is outstanding: from authentic Chloe heels to cute Y2K flip flops. The employees are helpful, and are always bringing in new racks of clothes for perusal. • Takos Secondhand is an eclectic, curated pop-up near the Redbirds Stadium in downtown Memphis. The shop has funky and colorful dresses, classic jeans and fun tops. They have an excellent selection of vintage magazines and books that aren’t available in mainstream shops. The accessories at Takos are also fantastic. Hats, jewelry- they have it all. • Outphits is a Memphis show room located downtown. It houses vintage designer and high-end archive pieces for a fraction of their original prices. Their inventory is updated frequently. Don’t miss the shoe selection–you won’t be able to find their designer items anywhere else. • Blues City Thrift is a cozy mom and pop thrift store that has been a go-to for years. The store is well-stocked, from clothes to shoes to household items to random goodies. When you visit Blues City Thrift, be prepared to look through everything and come home with the unexpected and more. The furniture section here is a standout. • Finally, a Memphis favorite, the Memphis Vintage Market. This monthly pop-up moves around town–Crosstown Concourse, Shelby Farms and local breweries–to offer trendy vintage clothing to the public. The Market showcases scores of secondhand vendors and has grown a cultlike following. It’s a place to come together to shop vintage purses, shoes and clothes as well as enjoy live music and eat and drink local favorites. A perfect spot to meet up and browse for fun or shop for a wardrobe refresh!

“Thrifting isn’t just a thriving hobby in Memphis. Capital One reports that 40% of apparel items purchased in the United States were thrifted in 2023.” CONTINUED >

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Thrifting isn’t just a thriving hobby in Memphis. Capital One reports that 40% of apparel items purchased in the United States were thrifted in 2023. Thrifting hubs around the country include Las Vegas, Austin and Brooklyn. In fact, thrifting represents more than 10% of the global apparel market, and continues to grow. So, when you travel, research places to thrift! You’ll find neighborhoods off the beaten path and clothes that aren’t available in your hometown, whether you are visiting a new city in the United States or around the world. It is satisfying to have someone compliment your style when you’ve done the work to find something that is exceptional. Rain or shine, thrifting is a good way to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life. Keep your phone handy to snap photos of those one-of-a-kind finds to share with friends. Encourage them to thrift with you and explore new parts of Memphis, the US and the world. Happy shopping. Each model’s outfit uses secondhand finds. Thank you to The James Lee House for the use of the beautiful treasure for our setting.

Savannah, Sophia and Ruby have brought their style to life with thrifting.

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Sophia Page: "My favorite thrift find is my short romper."

L E A R N M O R E : If you’d like to dip your toe

into thrifting fun in Memphis, come shopping at the next Memphis Vintage Market. You will find an excellent selection of products to peruse. D ETA I L S @TH E M E M PH I SV I NTAG E M A R K ET

Sophia: "I really enjoy finding things I love that were once loved by other people."

Ruby: "I will definitely be a life long thrifter."

Savannah Gibson: "My favorite thrifting find is anything that I have found for someone else."

THE JAMES LEE HOUSE

Located at 690 Adams Avenue in downtown Memphis, the House is a stunning example of the grandeur of 1800s Memphis. Built in 1848, it has been a home for families as well as the Memphis College of Arts. In the 1920s, James Lee’s daughter, Rosa, donated the home to Memphis to house the James Lee Arts Academy, the precursor to the College. In 1959, the College moved to Overton Park and the house was vacant until 2013, when it was purchased with the intent of building a historic bed and breakfast. After over a year of painstaking, historic renovations, The James Lee House opened as a bed and breakfast and event venue. A vintage gem of Memphis. Learn more at www.jamesleehouse.com.

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Behind the Seams Where craftsmanship meets connection, Joseph’s Alterations is redefining the meaning of a perfect fit. The steady hum of sewing machines fills the back of Joseph’s Alterations while customers chat with staff over garment bags, wedding dresses, and well-loved blazers waiting for a second life. The atmosphere feels less like a tailoring shop and more like a neighborhood gathering place, where clients are greeted by name, offered a drink, and invited into conversations about upcoming weddings, job interviews and family celebrations. For Joseph’s Alterations, located off the northwest corner of Poplar and Kirby Parkway, clothing is only part of the story. “We care about not simply delivering, but

the backstory - what the event is, what purpose it serves and how they like to wear their clothes,” explained one of the shop’s clothing architects. “Anything to raise the customer experience.” That philosophy has helped distinguish this Memphis business in an industry many people view as purely transactional. While most alteration shops rely on one person to handle everything from fittings to sewing, Joseph’s Alterations divides the process into two focused roles. Clothing architects work directly with customers, acting as advisors, designers and translators before detailed plans are handed off to master tailors.

ARTICLE BY CAMPBELL JENKINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH VOIGT

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LO CAL SE RVICE S

Joseph's Alterations owner owner, John Gurgenc

The result is a collaborative process that resembles architecture as much as fashion. They are taking pictures, drawing everything out like a blueprint, their team explains, describing the collective work that takes place before a garment ever reaches a sewing machine. Long before the first stitch, every garment is carefully evaluated, discussed and documented. The tailoring team understands not only what needs to be changed, but why. Behind every hem or jacket adjustment is constant collaboration between departments and decades of experience. The business itself is built on that expertise. Owner John Gurgenc developed the company’s customer-focused system after years of studying the industry, while the tailoring team brings nearly four decades of craftsmanship to the workroom. Their combined philosophy blends European and Turkish tailoring traditions with a resolute commitment to quality. “We’ve scouted the best of the best,” John confirms. “The foundation is built on experience and passion.” That passion becomes especially clear during life’s biggest moments. Among the shop’s most memorable projects was helping a bride prepare for her wedding day. When she returned for her final fitting and stepped out wearing her completed gown, emotion filled the room. Staff members applauded, music played, and the fitting turned into a celebration. Moments like those explain why the team insists their greatest reward is never the garment itself but the reaction it creates. Even routine alterations carry that same level of care. Before a customer leaves, staff members repeatedly ask if the fit feels right, making adjustments until the customer is completely satisfied. Their goal is not simply better-fitting garments, but a more confident customer. Along the way, they often find themselves teaching clients about an art form many underestimate. One of the biggest misconceptions, they say, is assuming alterations are quick or simple. A request that sounds as easy as, “just taper these pants” can involve carefully opening seams, preserving original stitching and reshaping the garment without affecting its overall structure. Rather than becoming frustrated by those assumptions, the team sees every exchange as an opportunity to educate. Education is important, John adds. They do not want people to depend on them without understanding CONTINUED >

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what’s happening. That lesson feels especially relevant in today’s era of online shopping and fast fashion. As more shoppers purchase clothing without trying it on, poorly fitting garments have become increasingly common. The fit can completely change how a garment looks. A well-tailored $100 outfit can often outshine a designer piece that does not fit correctly. Their advice for shoppers is simple: buy clothes for the person you are today, not the person you hope to become someday. And whenever possible, try them on before purchasing.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LO CAL SE RVICE S

The shop has certainly seen its share of unusual requests–from repairing a lone sock to altering a tiny backpack for a bearded dragon - but those stories only reinforce the welcoming spirit that customers remember long after the fitting is complete. For Joseph’s Alterations, tailoring is about far more than thread and fabric. It is about preserving craftsmanship in a fast-moving world, celebrating life’s milestones one fitting at a time and reminding people that the perfect fit is not simply about the clothing; it is about helping someone feel like the best version of themselves.

EMILY LEONARD

Prairie Sep 2026

DAVID LUSK GALLERY

97 Tillman . Memphis

JUNE, 2026, oil on masonite, 60 x 36”

David Yurman • John Hardy • Gurhan • Roberto Coin Elizabeth Locke • Penny Preville • Raymond Yard Natural Diamonds • Antique Jewelry Memphis Diamond Company

The original Memphis family of fine jewelers 474 Perkins Extended, Memphis 38117