Jacket: Zara; Pants: Paige

Layering has been super important to me this season. Will an abundant array of options to keep warmth in and the cold out, it’s kind of a game to me to see how things layer. If you’re wearing multiple layers — all of them stylish — and you get hot, you can take one off and still look sharp. When you start to cool off, you slip the top layer back on and still look put together. In a sense, smart layering enables you to look great in a wide range of temperatures without heading home to change.

One of my more favorite finds recently was this super transitional and comfortably cool jacket from Zara. It’s a velvet bomber jacket that is soft enough to keep suitors close and warm enough to keep you moving during your winter adventures. I found myself hugging the fabric and wanting to find a way to make it work for every outfit.

As you all know, I am a huge foodie so on our most recent trip to New York City this jacket was my go to for hopping from restaurant to restaurant. Some of my memories from the vacation included oysters from Mermaid Inn Oyster Bar, Spaghetti from Scarpetta and of course, a huge ice cream cone from Big Gay Ice Cream!

In general, layering is a four-season look. I found that fact to be especially true this time around. This jacket lends itself naturally to fall and winter — when changing temperatures make it convenient to have pieces you can take on or off throughout the day — but with the right wardrobe pieces and the right materials you can have a layered look all year round if you want.

Needless to say, we had an absolute blast in NYC and I certainly can’t wait to go back. Layer your next trip with a bit of adventure!

Well hey there. It’s me. I am jet lagged as ever (we’re talking bed before 7pm and 3am wake up calls) but I made it back from Thailand. A beautiful country it is, filled with gorgeous sights, delicious food and the kindest people. I gained so much from traveling across the world to see the curiously chaotic and seamlessly chic cities I’d heard so much about. Over 13 days of traveling has landed me in a state of trance, yes. But I am here to share some of my fondest (and tastiest) memories from my adventures abroad that I hope you will enjoy!

After landing at nearly 2 am and arriving to our hotel almost an hour later, sleep was the only thing on our brains. So after a nights rest and a few cups of coffee we embarked on our first days of sightseeing. The Peninsula Bangkok is one of the most amazing hotels I have ever stayed in. Between the attention to detail, room design and overall classy feel, it’s like being in a dream. Needless to say, the beds were exceptionally comfy as well! Helps when you’ve traveled 23 hours to get there. Right, back to the fun.

One of the experiences that The Peninsula provides is a traditional Thai cooking class. Our experienced started by visiting the fresh market to select the ingredients via the Peninsula Tuk Tuk (the only way to get around the bustling city). This intriguing three-wheeled taxi is synonymous with Thailand and is a fast and fun way to get around the city. The hotel’s brand new, bespoke Tuk Tuk includes complimentary Wi-Fi, drinking water and cold towels on board for guests. No roughing it here! We zipped through bustling streets and alleys of Bangkok to local markets where we purchased fresh ingredients for our cooking class. There was so much to see and eat! I’d heard so much about Thai street food but sampling was a whole other level of cool. Fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and more. We chose our ingredients and headed back to get cooking…

I am a true lover of Thai cuisine and was thrilled when we found out what dishes we would be preparing for the afternoon. On the menu was an assortment including Som Tam (papaya salad with tomatoes and cashew nuts), Tom Yum Goong (Spicy and sour prawn soup with lemongrass), Phad Thai (Thai rice noodles and prawns, bean sprout and chive) and Khao Nhiew Ma-Muang (Fresh Mango with coconut infused sticky rice). Knowing we picked out all the parts to make the dish made it that much better. Our expert chef guided us through each dish before we sat to enjoy it. I felt immersed in the Thai way with the spice, flavors and cooking methods being explored.

After finishing the cooking class, we enjoyed a traditional Thai lunch prepared by the restaurant’s chef at Thiptara restaurant, literally translated as “heaven on water”. While we savored Thai dishes served in open-air traditional Salas set among lush tropical gardens overlooking the banks of the Chao Phraya River, we knew this was a bite of Bangkok we wouldn’t soon forget.

That’s right ladies and gentlemen, when it comes to keeping all my events in one strict schedule that allows me to share with friends and know exactly what’s going on, I need a full fledged cal. Allcal creates calendars that you can share with co-workers, loved ones or members of your unique group. On the day of the event you’ll only see the most important information – where you’re going, when you need to arrive, and who will be there.

It doesn’t get much easier or streamlined than that. With my busy schedule filled with fashion, food and nightlife events around Dallas, Allcal gets how important it is to blend user friendly interfaces with sharing features.

Wanna see my favorite events coming up? Check out my public calendar here!

What are you waiting for?

1. Download the free app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or register online through the Allcal Web App.

I’ve been away. It’s been too long. I miss you guys. These are all thoughts that have passed through my mind this past week. Rest assured, my dearest readers and friends that the cause of my absence is a worthy one.

You see, this past week I was given a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore sheer luxury and style courtesy of Lincoln Motor Company. Lincoln Black Label is an ownership experience designed to exceed the expectations of even the most discerning luxury client. Centered on a curated collection of designer, interior themes and a host of exclusive membership privileges, Lincoln brought Black Label to life in a private home of North Dallas.

Styled completely by the chief interior designers at Condé Nast, each space in the home was tailored to replicate one of the car outfits that the buyer can choose from in the new line up of vehicles. Oasis, Center Stage, Indulgence and Modern Heritage round out the finishes within the car and the rooms in the designer home followed suit.

During the time in the Black Label Home, I was treated to severely VIP experiences like 3rd row Texas Rangers game tickets and a delicious dinner at Nick & Sams Steakhouse. Black Label ownership grants you ongoing access to the Culinary Collection — a curated list of restaurants coast to coast with noted chefs providing an at-your-service dining experience. Like the materials in your Black Label vehicle, these culinary marvels are sought after by many. Pretty cool, huh?

I was in a state of bliss during my week stay in the home and driving the Black Label MKZ was a dream! Some of my favorite features in the car were the fully retractable panoramic glass roof and cooled seats. Lincoln Motor Company might have been known as a popular brand among an older audience, but I can stand witness to the fact that I haven’t been impressed by a cars bells and whistles in quite some time.

Thanks to Lincoln Motor Company for an exquisite staycation!

*Home, Experiences and Car all furnished by Lincoln Motor Company

2015 Dallas Art Fair

Dallas Art Fair will feature over 90 prominent national and international art dealers and galleries exhibiting painting, sculpture, works on paper, photography, video, and installation by modern and contemporary artists.

Thursday, April 9

LLS North Texas Presents #TBT to the 80’s

Come party like it’s 1989 again on Thursday, April 9th to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Come dressed in your best 80’s attire (yes, there will be a costume contest with GREAT prizes).

2015 Cool Thursdays Concerts presented by Wells Fargo

With thousands of performances under their belts ranging from smokey, hole-in-the-wall biker bars, to festivals, to concert halls, to casinos, to cruise liners, The Rocket Man Band musicians actually portray Elton John’s intense 70’s & 80’s concerts down to the finest detail.

Friday, April 10

Late Night Pop Up Bar at D.E.C. on Dragon

The new event space, bar and gathering spot in the Design District is hosting a pop up bar this Friday at 10:30pm until the wee hours. Come see and be seen and check out the beautiful rooftop terrace overlooking Downtown Dallas.

Saturday, April 11

2015 Duck Commander 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series

It’s not often I get excited about cars racing in a circle, but this is NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon’s last race ever. Plus, this race is BYOB and that’s enough to get me excited.

Sunday, April 12

Beats + Brunch at Proof + Pantry

Proof + Pantry is opening the doors for one of Dallas’ finest music minds. JT Donaldson will be joining us every Sunday at Proof. In Proof fashion we will be knocking back porrons of Rose and Irish Coffees. Join us for Dallas’ premiere music and food throughout the spring season! Be sure to make reservations or call 214.850.3414

We all have the urge to unleash the inner kid and blow off some steam during the week. Whether it’s putting on your favorite pair of pajamas and singing around the house, shoving a mouth full of candy into your chomper in a sitting or just having some downright fun times. Well, if the third option is your go to, I’ve got some exciting news for you. I recently went in to Pinstack, unique dining and entertainment destination, laced up my bowling shoes and ate all the snacks. The huge complex houses a 28-lane bowling alley as well as a two-level laser tag arena, a rock climbing wall and a high-ropes course suspended 20 feet above 100 of the newest video games and simulator technology. Do I have your attention?

I know what you’re thinking. You’ve been to all the bowling alleys that are smokey, draining and downright gross. My friends, I think you will have a change of mind when you visit Pinstack. Besides being super clean and friendly, Pinstack offers a modern, attractive and forward aesthetic with bold finishes, creating a one-of-a-kind experience. We bowled our way through the afternoon and even saved room for a couple of the menu highlights like the Honey Bee Pizza (Italian Sausage, Prosciutto and Honey), Wings and delish brisket sliders. Yeah, I guess you could said my inner kid is satisfied for a while but that won’t keep my from coming back again very soon.

Playoff Fan Central – Friday through Sunday

This multi-day fan festival will give thousands of fans the opportunity to be a part of the College Football Playoff National Championship experience, with appearances from the participating institutions’ bands, cheerleaders and mascots and mini pep rallies for each participating team. Filled with various activities including interactive games, sponsor activities, special guest appearances and exhibits celebrating college football, this family friendly event will create memories that will last a lifetime.

CMT’s Ultimate Kickoff Party Live from the College Football Playoff National Championship at Playoff Fan Central will premiere on CMT Friday, January 9, at 8 p.m. CT and will feature country superstars Toby Keith, Lady Antebellum, Big & Rich, Brett Eldredge, Jake Owen, Maddie & Tae and Thomas Rhett. Playoff Fan Central ticket holders will have first-come, first-serve access to the concert. For more information, click here.

Extra Yard 5K – Saturday

Gear up, show your fandom, get the head gear ready and wear your bowl game best! It’s time to get out of the student section; bring your passion for the gridiron as we celebrate the inaugural College Football Playoff National Championship with the running of the Extra Yard 5K.

It all goes down at the start and finish line in the Cotton Bowl, and will be chock full of marching bands, spirit squads and all of your favorite college football memories. Overall male & female winners get tickets to the big game!

AT&T Playlist Live Concerts – Saturday & Sunday

• Featuring Keri Hilson, Vintage Trouble and Lenny Kravitz on Saturday; Echosmith and Sting on Sunday
• Appearances from institutions’ bands, cheerleaders and mascots

Taste of the Championship – Sunday

Featuring 18 chefs from around the country, including ten from North Texas, five from cities hosting CFP Semifinals in future years, one from Tampa, Fla. (host city to the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship) and two from the respective cities of the teams playing for the national championship

Monday Game Watching parties

PakPao is extending its Thai Hot Wings promotion. For $10, fans receive 10 zesty wings, plus $4 Chang and Singha beers, all while the game plays on the big-screen TV.

Del Frisco’s Grille in Uptown Dallas is gearing up for another spirited National Championship Watch Party. Their upstairs bar will feature drink and food specials and the perfect atmosphere for cheering on your favorite team. No matter who you are cheering for, everyone wins with: $2 off draft beer, $8 featured cocktails, and $10 sandwiches and flatbreads.

The Rustic will show the game on a 25ft inflatable BIG screen as the two teams, Ohio State & Oregon, battle it out for the BIG W! Game day food includes: $3 PBR brews and $12.95/ person endless wings!

The Granada Theater will be showing the game on the big screen!

Well, I’ll be. Posh hotel chain Hotel ZaZa has announced it will be placing its next Dallas area location in Frisco at the brand new Wade Park Complex.

“Known for its contemporary design and upscale amenities, Hotel ZaZa will be among the highlights of Thomas Land & Development’s $1.6 billion upscale mixed-use development, taking shape at the Dallas North Tollway and Lebanon Road.

Thomas Land & Development will develop the new hotel, and it will be branded and managed by Hotel ZaZa and Z Resorts Management LLC. It is slated to open with the first phase of the development in the Fall of 2016.

The hotel also will have a 1,000-square-foot fitness center and a ZaSpa.

It will be the third Hotel ZaZa in Texas, joining locations in Uptown and Houston. Hotel ZaZa also recently broke ground on a location in downtown Austin and continues to “aggressively look for additional opportunities across the country,” the company said.

Stan Thomas, president and chief executive of Thomas Land & Development called Hotel ZaZa, “a leader in the competitive Dallas luxury hotel set,” offering a “one of a kind experience.”

Said Benji Homsey, president of brand development for Z Resorts: “The Frisco community is booming, and our resort-style hotel will meet the need by offering a unique experience, blending the best of business and leisure travel with the luxury and exclusivity of a boutique hotel unlike any other in the area.”

The new Hotel ZaZa will be positioned along the main street of Wade Park’s retail village, surrounded by 600,000 square-feet of high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment. The center also will feature 6 million square feet of office space, as well as apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes supported by “numerous luxury amenities and concierge services,” the company said.

Hotel ZaZa is the first of three hospitality venues slated for Wade Park. Plans also include a 350-room executive conference hotel along the Tollway, and an upscale limited-service hotel.

The development also is slated to include a 45,000 square-foot Whole Foods Market, iPic Theaters, and Pinstripes, which signed leases for the center earlier this year. The developer broke ground on Wade Park in early August.”

Frisco just got an early Christmas, and suddenly the suburbs are a bit more posh!

As you may have noticed on Instagram, I spent this past weekend in the windy city. However, it was more of the sleet and snowy city for the majority of the weekend. This Texas boy almost didn’t know what to do with himself. Then I had a thought, if I just bounce from shop to shop on The Magnificent Mile and peek into some delicious restaurants I’ll be out of the cold weather. Perfect.

The city of Chicago was alive this weekend. If you’ve never been, I highly encourage spending 48-72 hours (or longer) hitting the pavement of this mid-western city that makes every visitor feel at home. With a flair for the bold personalities and even bolder cuisine (cue deep dish pizza and Chicago dogs), the city also has a softer side. As I perused the racks at Topshop, dined on a delicious midday lunch at RL and walked the streets of the city I never felt lost or out of my comfort zone. Chicago is the third most populous city in the United States, after New York City and Los Angeles. With 2.7 million residents, it is the most populous city in both the U.S. state of Illinois and the American Midwest. I love the people, the food and the fashion. Quite frankly, this southern boy is a mid-westerner at heart.

So take a peek at my pictures above as I documented my whirlwind trip to Chicago. Another dining recommendation? (because you know I had to) Go to PUMP Room and be enchanted by chic and deliciously hip ambiance with gourmet food and craft drinks. All outfits seen above are courtesy of TopMan at Topshop.

Lacoste Shirt / Bonobos Khakis

Over the weekend, Dallas celebrated the newest luxury hotel to hit ‘The Hilltop’. The Highland Dallas, formerly Hotel Palomar, was unveiled on Thursday, Oct. 30. In celebration of its Grand Opening, the hotel hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and champagne saber off by Celebrity Chef John Tesar. The first of its kind in Hilton Hotels new Curio Collection, The Highland is a chic escape for travelers and those who prefer to stay-cation.

The Highland is the first hotel in Hilton’s Curio Collection, a selection of one-of-a-kind properties that celebrate their individual personalities. For Dallas’ location, rustic southern touches can be seen around the property as well as Texas charm pieces like the cow photo in my king bed room. I found myself napping in the luxurious down pillow-top bed and reflecting at the amazing corner view that peered out over all of Dallas. As far as unique style goes, The Highland has it aplenty and with Knife and Exhale Spa to add to the experience the hotel is poised to raise the bar in Dallas.

The Highland Dallas

5300 E. Mockingbird Lane

Dallas, Texas 75206

Reservations: 844-442-8746