Me, a column writer? Not exactly. However, I am a pro-level shopper with a background in fashion that should qualify me for at least a guest role now and then. If you’ve shopped at Ruibal’s Plants on a Saturday morning or grabbed coffee at Highland Park’s Royal Blue (RIP) you’ve likely bumped into me with my son, Wells, in tow. But let me properly introduce myself.
I got my start in magazines (W, Teen Vogue, Marie Claire), rode the very first wave of Instagram street style, and hit my stride as Creative Director of Moda Operandi. Fast forward a few years, (OK, not too many!) and I landed my current role heading up creative and fashion at THE YES. (It’s a personalized online shopping experience, but more on that in the future, I’m sure.)
Now, I’m here to talk shopping in Dallas, particularly everything that I’m loving for the holiday season. Some of it’s expected (hello, festive PJs) while some might be less so, like a rocker tee with a ballgown. I hope you’ll have some fun perusing and be inspired to shop my favorites from the best Dallas stores and THE YES, of course.
Consider me your local holiday elf.
Ranch Holiday
Texas native or not, there’s no beating a ranch holiday with frying turkeys outside and sipping Epic Western’s Ranch Water from a can. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but truly. If you can’t do a fresh-mixed one, their Ranch Water straight from the cooler still hits the spot.
Alix of Bohemia Cody Puffer Jacket
$1,620/Alix of Bohemia
Zara Midi Skirt
$35.90/Zara
Fallon Feathered Waterfall Chandelier Earrings
$270/THE YES
Khaite The Fontana Knee High Boot
$1,460/THE YES
Epic Western Ranch Water
Montecristi Hats
505.983.9598 (Ask for Jimmy!)
Perfectly content, the only thing I need is this Montecristi custom hat in black felt. It’s at the top of my wishlist.
Party Crasher
If I had my way, Every black tie evening should end with a nightcap and pecan ball at Cafe Pacific. Lighten gala stuffiness by pairing your ball skirt back to a vintage rocker tee. and toss on a feather bolero for good measure. If you want to skew a little more classic, go with a crisp, high-neck button down instead. You can’t fail.
Huishan Zhang Brit Skirt
$1,960/THE YES.com
Feathers always feel festive. My Huishan Zhang skirt is a favorite that’s shockingly versatile. My favorite way to wear it is with something unexpected to give it a more casual vibe.
After Dark
PJs to a party? Do it! I love taking a silky PJ set and dressing it up with the right kind of jewelry, a cool heel, and a faux-fur scarf from Kule (one of my go-to brands for everything, especially gifting). The look is glamorous with a little bit of nostalgic coziness.
Frame Oversized Shirt
$388/THE YES
Frame Satin Jogger
$328/THE YES
Kule Monroe Scarf
$198/THE YES
By FAR Alena heel
$455/THE YES
Only in Texas
Brunch or holiday shopping with the girls, I keep things on the casual side. I live in denim, so it becomes the base for lots of my looks. My favorite pair right now is this really cool oversized jean from B Sides. Adding a feminine top to my favorite slouchy denim feels dressed up, without seeming overly “done.”
3.1 Phillip Lim Bubble Taffeta Top
$450/THE YES
B Sides Lasso Jeans
$425/THE YES
Jimmy Choo Reggie Flat
$695/THE YES
Bottega Veneta Double Knot
$2,700/THE YES
How We Roll
This one goes out to the carpool moms, especially those who like to dress to a theme. (Wells is always game to match with me!) How great is this Dries sweatshirt for early morning drop-offs? it’s as easy as a basic hoodie, but you get all the extra credit thanks to the feathers. Wear it with a Lele earring and a knit skirt (I love checker print!) or just grab the pair it with denim that’s tossed over the foot of your bed. Mine happen to be the new 100% biodegradable Frame jeans. Remove the buttons and the fabric actually 100% composts. How cool is that?
Dries Van Noten Boxy Sweatshirt
$550/Neiman Marcus
Bottega Veneta Rubber Flash Mules
$510/THE YES
Lele Sadoughi Earrings
$125/THE YES
Frame Le Slouch Jean
$268/THE YES
Errand B%tch
Though it once felt like a trend, it’s clear that The Teddy Coat is here to stay. —a modern addition to the classics. This year’s standout is undoubtedly from Frame. Throw it over your favorite cashmere sweater and a bike short (in red, why not?) for a Hailey-Bieber-but-a-little-more-grown-up vibe. Pairing it back to sneakers would be expected, so go for a cool mule instead.
Frame Sherpa Plaque Coat
$698/THE YES
Nike bike shorts
$35/Nike
Kule The Hoodie Dickey
$78/THE YES
Make sure designer Duncan, is on your radar. Expert tailoring, wear-forever classics…it’s a new favorite of mine.