How Dallas Dresses: Jessica Watts Ayers

Twice a year, Jessica Watts Ayers boards a plane for Paris Fashion Week alongside the owners of Victory Park’s V.O.D. Boutique. She’s not a buyer or a designer in the traditional sense, but rather a seasoned fashion devotee (and a very lucky friend).

“I go for inspiration in all aspects—hair, fashion, just fun,” says the Arkansas native who counts her organized and efficient closet as her favorite room in her house.  

Turning 31 this month, Ayers manages gigs as a hair stylist at Chad Rookstool Salon and a spin instructor at Terlingo Cycle. She moved to Dallas in 2002 for hair school, expecting to stay for a few years and realizing within months that wasn’t going to be the case. It felt like the place for her. 

Today, a mother to two rescue pups, she and her husband live, work, and play near the Katy Trail, opting for an “urban lifestyle” of sorts. “We ride our bikes everywhere,” she says. “I’m always active. The majority of my day I’m in really casual, comfortable, but—I like to think—great clothes.”

Denim, sneakers, cut-offs, and one statement piece, like an oversized denim vest, a black leather jacket, or a fishtail mini, complete her look. “I like to get one or two essential pieces per season, but not so conventional,” she says. “Most girls buy the trendy pieces. I pretty much veer completely opposite of what’s ‘in.’ ” 

Yet, even still, the compliments roll in. “I find that I always have something that everyone likes or covets,” she says. “But I certainly don’t try to.”