How many times have you heard that phrase? It’s become something of a cliché, something a guru might say to their white-robed followers. Sort of a hippy-dippy, New Age “ nugget of wisdom” that’s become a hackneyed phrase to say when a friend loses a job. But do you know where “follow your bliss” comes from and what it really means?

The phrase “follow your bliss” came from a series of interviews that Joseph Campbell did with Bill Moyers that eventually became The Power of Myth. To follow your bliss doesn’t mean doing what feels good in the moment. It isn’t shallow or hedonistic. To follow your bliss means exploring the depths of your soul to find what brings you joy and peace. Campbell said, “To find your own way is to follow your own bliss. This involves analysis, watching yourself, and seeing where the real deep bliss is — not the quick little excitement, but the real, deep, life-filling bliss.”

It’s not always easy to follow your bliss, to dig down deep to find what you’re passionate about, and upend your life to allow you to explore that passion. Just ask Berçem İpekbayrak. [Editor’s Note: Berçem’s last name was misspelled in the print version of this article. We apologize to her!]

photo credit: Bia Soul Studio

Berçem is a self-taught silversmith and the genius behind Bia Soul Studio, an online shop where she creates and sells one-of-a-kind pieces of wearable art. And while more and more Fort Worthians are discovering her gorgeous silver, turquoise, and opal creations, she wasn’t always a silversmith and artist.

Berçem grew up in Istanbul, the daughter of a mechanical engineer and a sculptor/professor of fine arts. “My brother and I grew up with my father fixing stuff and my mother making things out of nothing,” Berçem said. “My mom works with giant blocks of marble, and my dad’s a mechanical genius, so he was soldering things right on the dining table.”

After school, Berçem went to work for Louis Vuitton in Istanbul. She was a visual merchandiser who rose through the ranks to become the visual coordinator for the Middle East. The job took her to Dubai, where she met her husband. But eventually, she realized that she wasn’t happy.

“I started questioning what I was doing with my life,” Berçem said. “I woke up every morning wondering what I was doing. I didn’t feel good. I didn’t feel like I was doing good for anyone. I’m a creative person, and I didn’t feel like I was using my creativity in a global luxury company where there are rules, and you have to follow certain guidelines.”

Like most people on the precipice of a life change, Berçem didn’t quit her job immediately. “I loved working for [Louis Vuitton]. I learned so much from them, but everything comes to an end, and it got to the point where I realized that this job wasn’t for me anymore.”

A lot of us dream about quitting our jobs and doing nothing for a while, but being unemployed made Berçem nervous. “I’d never been unemployed,” she said. “I’ve always been independent. I moved to Dubai by myself. And that’s another thing. In Dubai, you need a sponsor to stay in the country. Louis Vuitton had been my sponsor, and they were so generous after I quit. They continued to sponsor me until my visa expired so that I could stay in the country.”

photo credit: Bia Soul Studio

Realizing that she needed something to do after quitting her job, Berçem started buying beads and making little ornaments and things. Then, she went to an arts and crafts show near her home in Dubai. “There was a lady who was a metalsmith at the show. I approached her and started asking her questions. She showed me videos of how she designed and made her jewelry and ornaments, and I was in awe. At that minute, I knew what I wanted to do.”

Inspired, Berçem went to the hardware store and bought some scrap copper sheeting and soldering wire. She then bought a little kitchen butane torch for caramelizing sugar on crème brulee. “So there I was with all these plumbing things, and I went into the yard and started experimenting with soldering and flame painting on the copper sheeting.”

Once Berçem started experimenting, there was no looking back. Once a passion takes hold of your soul, it’s like a tidal wave. It washes over you until there’s no room for anything else. Berçem started making jewelry.

By this point, Berçem was married to an ex-pat American. He had lived in Dubai for a long time and wanted to return to the States, so they packed up and moved to Virginia. From Virginia, the couple moved to North Carolina for a time before settling in North Texas. All the while, Berçem was experimenting with metalsmithing and learning everything she could about designing and creating jewelry.

“When we moved to North Carolina, I opened an Etsy shop,” Berçem said. “I was working mostly with copper and brass and things I could buy at Michael’s or Hobby Lobby. I turned our garage into a little studio, and I kept experimenting with how to manipulate metal and make different textures.”

Berçem and her husband moved to North Texas in 2020, at the height of the Covid pandemic. She had left a community of friends and supporters in North Carolina and didn’t know anyone here. She continued to make jewelry, but she relied on her husband and her pets for emotional support, especially her German Shepherd, Bia. Bia passed away in 2021.

“Bia was my rock,” Berçem said. “After her passing, I wanted to do something for her, to honor her. Her passing challenged me to move forward. That’s why I named my business after her. My grief pushed me to be better and bigger.”

She continued, “I started following a lot of metalsmiths on Instagram. A lot of them have YouTube channels, and I started learning from them. Then I reached out to some and started having conversations with them.”

Metalsmithing is a niche craft. Not many people do it, so the community of metalsmiths is supportive of each other. “Community over competition” is how Berçem describes it. “There’s a group called the Metalsmith Society, and it’s really beautiful. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a professional; everyone shares their sources and their techniques.”

Once the pandemic restrictions eased, Berçem started taking her jewelry to local markets and was amazed at how enthusiastic Fort Worthians were about her art. She works now mainly in silver, turquoise, and opal, and let’s face it, we Texans love silver and turquoise.

“Fort Worth is so appreciative of art and craftsmanship. And it doesn’t matter where you come from; Fort Worth embraces diversity and creativity. I’ve done markets in places like Dallas and Richardson and Frisco, but Fort Worth has a special place in my heart because you make me feel so loved.”

photo credit: Bia Soul Studio

And Fort Worthians do love Berçem and her jewelry. Megan Henderson, Director of Events and Communications, told Berçem that whenever she sees someone wearing an incredible piece of jewelry, she assumes it’s from Bia Soul Studio. Most of the time, she’s right.

Berçem smiled. “When you see people wearing your creations, there’s nothing better. It lets you know that you’re on the right track. As creatives, we have constant self-doubt, constant self-criticism. You question your ability, and you want to quit all the time, but when you see [someone wearing your art], it motivates you to make more.”

Berçem is a bright and bubbly person who has no trouble talking passionately about her art, so it was a little surprising when she admitted to self-doubt.

“My brother and I grew up in a very modern family,” Berçem said. “My parents met when they were both studying in Germany, and they are both very modern and open-minded people, but we still grew up to be very respectful, to be very discrete. You don’t show off. So I’m a little introverted, but with a small business, I have to show off, and that gives me anxiety.”

There’s pressure in owning a small business. “I have a small business, and I buy from small businesses,” Berçem said. “All my stones come from lapidary artists. My packaging comes from a family-owned business. My jewelry pouches are hand-sewn by another family. It’s all a chain of small businesses, and we rely on each other. So I have to push and promote my jewelry.”

She grinned, “My business helps me to come out of my shell. I can’t be scared.”

While the business and promotion side of her business might make her anxious, the creative side of Bia Soul Studio makes Berçem glow with happiness. “I always have notebooks around me because my brain is always creating. If I don’t write things down, I’ll lose it.”

She continued, “I usually design to music. If I hear something in a song, I’ll just keep listening to that song as I get the design out of my head. Sometimes I see things in my dreams, too.”

“I buy sheet metal and wire and stones, and everything I create comes out of those raw materials. They’re so full of potential.”

photo credit: Bia Soul Studio

Berçem carefully designs each piece, taking time to choose which stones work together and how they fit together. “I want a coherence and balance between the stones. The piece of jewelry should feel good, so I take my time. I have trays of stones sorted, and it can take hours to put the right ones together. It’s so meditative; I have my music, and I’m in the zone when I’m putting stones together.”

When asked what she looks for in a stone, Berçem shrugged. “Sometimes I see a stone and know exactly what I’m going to do with it. But most of the time, I keep the stone until the design comes to me. Some stones I’ve had for years.”

“I try to let things flow. I don’t want to be rigid when I’m working. There was one time I was making a necklace. I had put the stones together in a pattern, but then my hand hit the tray, and the stones moved into a new shape. I realized that I liked that pattern a lot better. If a piece goes in a different direction from where it started, I just follow where it’s going.”

For now, Bia Soul Studio is solely an online retailer, but Berçem had dreams of a storefront with a workshop and studio space where she can teach metalsmithing.

“It’s a childhood dream,” Berçem said. “When I was little and played with my dolls, I always wanted to own a shop and be in a community. My play store was a place for people to come and gather, and that’s still my dream – to have a creative place for people to express themselves and learn and explore. Right now, I share reels on Instagram about my process – from the design to choosing the stones to finishing, but I want to be able to do that in person.”

It’s a long way from Istanbul and luxury retail to North Texas and silversmithing. It takes courage to quit a high-paying job that doesn’t make you happy, but that’s precisely what Berçem did. She found, in the words of Joseph Campbell, her “real, deep, life-filling bliss.” And now she wants to share it with others.

“Creativity is limitless, an endless universe, and you get inspired by other people. Everybody had their own way of expressing themselves, their own creativity. They just need a spark to set it off.”

photo credit: Omorfia Imagery

The post Following Her Bliss: Berçem İpekbayrak and the Soul of Creativity first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

From plumbers to pediatricians, arborists to accountants, the ladies of the Tanglewood Moms group on Facebook know the best person, place, or thing for the job in Fort Worth. So naturally, they knew the best boutiques in town when we asked for their recommendations!

Color Game
4725 Camp Bowie Boulevard

It’s hard to look chic on game day, y’all. Fan apparel, while, um, exuberant, is not usually fashion-conscious or even particularly feminine. Erica Bracken understands. As the founder of Color Game, she knows you want to wear something other than an oversized jersey to support your team. Color Game carries a wide assortment of clothing and accessories that are a la mode in the colors of your favorite team. Are you looking for a baby doll dress in burnt orange? A cami in cardinal? A puff sleeve top in purple? Color Game has you covered. (They also carry clothing for non-game days.)

The Mercantile
7200 Camp Bowie Boulevard (on the traffic circle)

Since 2007, The Mercantile on Camp Bowie has offered Fort Worthians a place to shop for antiques, fashion, home décor, and furniture from a wide variety of vendors before indulging in a tasty lunch or decadent high tea in the Rose Garden Tea Room. A “mercantile” was another word for a general store, and The Mercantile lives up to its name. The vendors in the 200+ booths have an astonishing variety of offerings. No matter what you’re looking for, you will find it (and about 25 other things!) at The Mercantile.

The FORT TX
Located in The Market Ridglea
3400 Bernie Anderson Avenue

Do you love Fort Worth? Do you want to support local designers and makers? So do the folks at The FORT. Owner Jennifer McKnight curates an outstanding collection of apparel, fashion accessories, and home décor featuring their own designs and collaborations between local creatives and entrepreneurs, all inspired by Texas in general and Fort Worth in particular. The inventory is constantly changing, so check in often to see new items!

Alana Kay Art
www.alanakayart.com

Alana Kay Latiolais loves color. I mean, she REALLY loves color. She truly believes in the power of color; she knows that color can empower people and inspire joy. As a resin artist, she creates bold paintings that turn heads. She also digitally transforms her art into fashion, accessories, and home décor. And in May of 2024, Alana Kay launched her collection on HSN, othrwīs by Alana Kay, which brings her wearable art to the world.

Morgan Mercantile
121 South Main Street

Chance Morgan and his wife Kala are passionate about Panther City. They produce some of Fort Worth’s most creative custom-printed goods and merchandise. Starting their business in 2015, the Morgans opened their brick-and-mortar retail location in the Near Southside in 2019. Their in-house label, Panther City Provisions, is now seen on some of Fort Worth’s most influential influencers. Chance and Kala’s eye for design has elevated Morgan Mercantile from a simple print and promo company to a company that reflects the creative vibe of Funkytown.

P.S. the Letter
2100 Hulen Street

P.S. the Letter is all about bringing people together to celebrate. Whether you need a gift for a girlfriend’s baby shower or stationery for your wedding thank-you notes, P.S. the Letter has you covered. They have a fantastic selection of beautiful china, crystal, silver, and home décor that will be sure to make the recipient happy. The ladies of P.S. the Letter will guide you in choosing the perfect gift and stationery for any situation.

Monkee’s of Fort Worth
5234 Marathon Avenue

Franchise owner and Texas native Harriet McKinney has created a fun boutique full of carefully curated designer fashions. Monkee’s of Fort Worth offers upscale shoes, clothing, and accessories in a fun environment. You will find that shopping at Monkee’s of Fort Worth is a highly personalized experience. In fact, after shopping at Monkee’s, you very well might need a bigger closet.

Local Design Studio
3610 West Vickery Boulevard

In 2017, the owners of Lila and Hayes, Paige Casey and Amanda Galati, founded Local Design Studios with one mission in mind – to offer office space and warehouse space, as well as a storefront for women-owned businesses in Fort Worth. Fast forward to 2024, and Local Designs Studios is the home to six businesses: Kori Green Designs, Clearly Handbags, The Bow Next Door, Fort 52, RM Rynd Interiors, C&B Furs, CITY Boots, and, of course, Lila and Hayes. The showroom is open on Wednesdays from 10 am to 3 pm or by appointment.

You Are Here
4804 Camp Bowie Boulevard

Don’t all the best ideas start on a cocktail napkin? Anne Walker Miller and Joanna Bennett, the owners of You Are Here, think so. From an idea on a cocktail napkin to a pop-up store to a brick-and-mortar boutique, You Are Here has everything from the most comfortable jeans you will ever own to jewelry that is destined to become an heirloom. But the best part about shopping at You Are Here is that Joanna and Anne will make you feel like a long-lost friend the minute you step inside.

Wright at Home
5277 Monahans Avenue in the Shops at Clearfork

Owner Adrian Wright knows what his customers want. While the store’s name is a play on his name, Wright wants every person who walks into his store to feel right at home. After almost 20 years on Camp Bowie Boulevard, Wright at Home moved to the Shops at Clearfork in 2020, but it still offers the same carefully selected collection of gifts and home accessories, as well as Wright’s personalized design services.

Chieffalo Americana
4698 Camp Bowie Boulevard

While TCU alumnus Rodger Chieffalo made his name in real estate, he found his joy when he turned his hobby into a business. Nearly 20 years ago, Chieffalo started finding and restoring vintage Western hats. As his passion grew and people discovered his Chieffalo Americana hats, Rodger and his wife Jackie opened a Western accessories shop on the bricks of Camp Bowie. In fact, it was the store that brought them together! From vintage hats, scarves, belt buckles, and cufflinks to retro-styled sunglasses, designer clothing, and jewelry, Chieffalo Americana fits Fort Worth to a T!

Carter Bowden Antiques
4003 Camp Bowie Boulevard

I must admit that I love a good antique. So does Carter Bowden. He has an eye for antique art, home furnishings, and décor. The items in his shop on Camp Bowie can range from vintage Talavera pottery from Mexico to antique Steuben crystal to works by Texas artists. No matter what you are looking for, I will guarantee that you will find it (and lots more) at Carter Bowden Antiques.

Beehive
Fort Worth: 4808 Camp Bowie Boulevard
Austin: 3300 Bee Caves Road

Beehive owner Claire Craig started Beehive in Austin when she was only 25 years old. She wanted to create a boutique full of unique statement pieces, a cool and relaxed vibe, and colors and patterns to make you smile. Both the Beehive Austin and the Beehive Fort Worth cater to women who like their clothing and accessories to be high-end with just a touch (or maybe more than a touch) of wacky. Claire believes that you will leave her boutiques inspired to live life just a little funkier and a whole lot brighter.

Simple Things Furniture Company
7401 West Vickery Boulevard

Since 1997, Simple Things has been Fort Worth’s go-to for furniture and antiques furnishings. They are serious about chairs. And sofas. And bedding. And it works. And that incredible repurposed industrial light that will look amazing over the antique table with the gorgeous vintage place settings. (I’m no longer allowed in Simple Things by myself.) But if you’re looking for unique, high-quality pieces that are destined to become family heirlooms, look no further.

THREE Fort Worth
3460 Bluebonnet Circle

Named in honor of owner Kristi Parker’s three daughters, THREE provides local fashionistas with unique-yet-on-trend clothing and accessories at an affordable price point. Located on Bluebonnet Circle and beloved by local students, THREE is the place to find the absolutely perfect outfit, complete with the absolutely perfect accessories, for whatever occasion may arise without breaking the bank.

Casa Bella Décor
1617 Park Place Avenue

Casa Bella believes that furnishings and décor should be affordable, comfortable, and functional while reflecting your individual style. If you don’t love a piece, it doesn’t matter how comfortable it is or how affordable it may be. The designers at Casa Bella take the time to get to know you so that together, you can create a home that is stylish and that you can live in with ease. And because Casa Bella believes that shopping should be convenient, they offer in-person and online shopping options. No matter which method of shopping you choose, you will find just what you’re looking for at Casa Bella Décor.

The post Fort Worth’s Favorite Shopping Destinations first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

FREE PUBLIC PROGRAMS
The below calendar of events is current as of October 18, 2024. The most current information can always be found at kimbellart.org/calendar.

Ongoing Programs

In addition to the free programs listed below, the museum also offers a range of regular, free Public Tours exploring the museum’s permanent collection, special exhibitions, and architecture.

Kimbell Kids Drop-In Studios introduce children (ages 12 and younger) and their adult companions to fun and inspiring ways to enjoy art through gallery explorations and related studio-art projects on selected Saturdays from 1 to 1:45 p.m. October’s theme is Art Rocks and November’s is Ah-MAIZE-ing Art. Sign-up begins at noon in the Kahn Building.

Happy Hours on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Kimbell Café feature live music and a selection of beverages and snacks available for purchase. Members receive a 10% discount on beverages during Happy Hours.

The Kimbell Art Museum at Dusk
Carol M. Highsmith (1946-)

VISITOR INFORMATION

Admission to the museum’s permanent collection is always free. Admission is half-price all day on Tuesdays and after 5 p.m. on Fridays.

The Kimbell Art Museum is open Tuesdays through Thursdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Fridays, noon–8 p.m.; Sundays, noon–5 p.m.; closed Mondays, New Year’s Day, Juneteenth, July 4, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. For general information, call 817-332-8451.

The post This Fall at the Kimbell first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Fort Worth Fashion Week is a whole week of events that happens twice a year – Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter. Most events of this size can take an entire year to plan for that one day, so imagine a whole week of events with multiple events on the same day. As Fort Worth Fashion Week events grow and evolve, I constantly need to think bigger and better and outside of the box, and it all starts with questions.

How are we going to approach this season? Is there a theme? Are there specific genres or trends of clothing that we would like to focus on? Are there brands or designers that are releasing their new collections?

And then it’s Fashion Week, and we are hosting the shows. My favorite part of the whole process is the production of the shows. During each show, I have to be really dialed in because the production level is so important. As an owner of a clothing company and a designer myself, I understand how much work goes into creating a collection and how important it is for the designer to present their pieces in a way that best conveys their vision to the audience.

Fashion Week begins with coordinating with the designers and brands on what they envision for their fashion show. We discuss everything from the individual pieces and the models to the choreography and setting. Every fashion show is different. Music, proper lighting, down to the arrangement of seating – it’s all in the details. And it gets pretty wild backstage. It’s a room full of models getting their hair and makeup finished, designers doing garment logistics, photographers and videographers trying to get the best shots, all while I have to ensure everything operates seamlessly before, during, and after the show. This insanity lasts seven consecutive days, not including all the pre-show rehearsals.

Once all the shows in a season of Fort Worth Fashion Week are over, we are already planning the next season. There are no days off for me. While I’m planning and organizing each Fashion Week, I’m also creating the next collection for my brand, Mener Grand Train Co., which specializes in men’s bespoke suits and women’s couture. Designing forces my mind to be creative, and it allows me to keep perfecting my craft. From patternmaking to construction, designing gives me a keen eye for seeing every detail down to the stitching and thread.

Fort Worth Fashion Week has given our whole team the chance to meet and work with so many amazing people and make a difference in our city. Our partnerships with TCU’s Department of Fashion Merchandising and with the Fort Worth Independent School District provide students with valuable experience in the fashion industry by offering opportunities for hands-on learning and career development. We collaborate with the students on their school projects, and we host annual fashion show fundraisers that support students’ growth and development in the field of design and merchandising. We are mentoring the next generation of designers who may debut their collections at Fort Worth Fashion Week.

For all the craziness, I love that I get to pursue my passion, and having a great team by my side has made all the difference. Each season brings something new. Nike showcased their latest Nike Well Collective collection in Autumn/Winter 2023. We brought multiple Texas universities together for the first-of-its-kind collaborative fashion show at the Modern Art Museum. That event, in particular, was a huge success.

We’re excited for the upcoming season of Fort Worth Fashion Week. We’ve been working on a significant project for it, although specific details cannot be revealed at this time. However, I can share exclusive information about one of the season’s main events, which focuses on creating a new historical moment in Fort Worth and honors a pivotal event in American fashion history. You can expect a unique approach to the fashion show, with leading designers presenting their collections on the runway. I can’t disclose the location yet, but I can confirm that it will take place at a Fort Worth landmark in late autumn.

We look forward to sharing more details about our upcoming events very soon.

The post Behind the Scenes of Fort Worth Fashion Week first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

It’s so easy to overpack. After all, you want to be comfortable but still look good no matter where you go, and you don’t want to forget anything. But I always pack too much and come home having worn only a fraction of the outfits I so carefully packed. And now that airlines are charging more and more for checked luggage, packing everything in a carry-on is almost de rigueur.

Fortunately, we have a fashion expert! Nicole Shaffer is Madeworthy’s resident fashionista, so we contacted her for an update on her travel fashion tips from the 2018 May/June issue. She graciously helped us pack our carry-on. Now we just need someplace to go!

Photo courtesy of Nichole Shaffer

Madeworthy: You’ve planned a three-day weekend with friends in the California wine country. What do you pack to be comfy yet fabulously dressed for Insta-worthy photos?

Nicole Shaffer: I really don’t think a lot has changed since 2018. You can (still) never go wrong with layers. Northern California is well-known for its microclimates and multiple temperature changes throughout the day. The mornings and evenings are always chilly to me, but often during the day, especially if it’s cloudy, you will require several layers for warmth. I start with a dress (Ulla Johnson and Zimmerman have beautiful prints and fabrications) or a dressed-up denim option, then pair it with a complementary blazer and a pashmina or other wrap. You can never go wrong with a blazer (my family calls this my uniform) all year long. In the warm spring and early summer months, you can use it as a cape – simply sling it over your shoulders for effortless chic.

MW: Swimsuits! We can’t keep up. What cuts are trending for this summer? And are we leaning toward prints or solids or a mix? Also, what makes the perfect cover-up for the beach or poolside?

NS: I always plan my cover-up and hats first. Skin protection is my top priority when I’m going to experience consistent sun exposure, and I work backward to my swimsuit. What’s beautiful right now is that almost EVERY style seems to be “trending.” Comfort, what looks good for your shape, and, most importantly, what makes you feel beautiful is what should determine your selection. Shopbop, Revolve, and Net-a-porter are my go-to for swim-spiration. I love to see the whole look, from suits to sunnies, and piece it together from there. I’ve recently discovered a swimsuit line, Vetchy, and I love their fit and fabrication. For cover-ups, I don’t often buy a traditional cover-up; fun, easy dresses and long, linen button-downs are my favorite poolside looks. I like something that doesn’t feel fussy to take on and off. But nothing is more beautiful in a swimsuit than beautiful skin. Lots of SPF (and a skincare plan with my favorite aesthetician in Fort Worth) is the only way I like to bask in the sun.

Photo courtesy of Nichole Shaffer

MW: Vintage. It’s always been a tool in the fashion girl’s toolkit, but how do you keep from looking like you stepped out of time or going to a costume party?

NS: I love vintage and lovingly pre-owned shopping. These are some of the most treasured and sustainable items in my closet. And they always have a story. I also love feeling appropriately themed for events but NEVER like I’m wearing a costume. One of my dear girlfriends and travel partner, Brooke Wright (of Brooke Wright Designs), pairs her gorgeous printed dresses, tops, and caftans with vintage so seamlessly – she’s my inspiration! A great way to modernize a beautiful vintage piece is to find a good tailor; they can make an heirloom piece feel fresh and a la mode. Also, think about the accessories you’re pairing with it. Accessories take a look from “period piece” to “right now.” If you’re new to shopping vintage or just don’t love the idea of “old” clothes, start with accessories. A fun pair of Chanel clip-ons, vintage Manolos, or a Celine bag from the ‘90s will give any outfit a more grounded style and make you feel chic and effortlessly put together.

The post Madeworthy’s Summer ’24 Fashion Report first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Moss is the creator and co-owner of Franklin & Anthony, a bespoke menswear and womenswear company in Fort Worth that continues to grow and evolve since its launch in 2015. The clothier’s ethos is simple: quality fabric and keen design make a lasting impression. This Deion Sanders-like ideology of how presentation affects outcome (“If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good. If you play good, they pay good.”) was adopted by Moss back when he went by a different name.

In the early 2000s, Moss was a young kid pursuing a hip-hop career. He was known to everyone as Quite Frank and was known as much for his style as his rhymes. It was one of the constant themes in his music, too.

photo credit: Jordan Smith

“I used to rap about fashion. But because we were all in college, I still went to Burlington Coat Factory and Ross to get thrifty clothes that were in style,” said Moss, laughing as he recalled his bold choices then. “I remember being one of the first people to wear Ed Hardy before it actually became something big. The thing that made me stand out more was my fashion was always different. I used to get clowned in the neighborhood because I used to wear skinny jeans before skinny jeans were the thing.” He grinned, “And now, the people who clowned me back then are still wearing skinny jeans even though skinny jeans are no longer the thing!”

Fashion came naturally to Moss. He had confidence and an intuition for predicting trends, and he caught the attention of an industry professional. By 2005, Quite Frank was part owner of Supreme Records, a Fort Worth label promoting Texas hip-hop artists. The manager of Supreme Records’ biggest artist expressed an interest in also managing Moss. “He wanted to manage me. But he didn’t like me as a rapper. He [understood] the potential that I had as a brand…and thought I should get into fashion more,” said Moss.

Around this time, Moss was already elevating his style, transitioning from urban wear to menswear under the influence of a debonair cousin, who dressed the part of the quintessential gentleman – waistcoats, cardigans, pocket squares, etc. This cousin’s advice was straightforward: “When you get dressed for work, you should be able to take that same outfit and go to the club.” This advice resonated with Moss, a single man at the time. When he embraced this more formal look, Moss noticed that others’ behavior towards him changed.

photo credit: Jordan Smith

“People treat people different if they’re wearing a suit. I used to think it was because I was a Black man, but I’ve learned it’s far beyond that. The conversation is different. The treatment is different. You also create a new environment every time you walk in a room wearing a suit,” said Moss.

Of course, hindsight can make everything obvious, but we often lack vision in the moment. Despite emceeing fashion shows across the country and eventually working as a stylist, it wasn’t until a school friend, Keaon Anthony, asked if he wanted to start a suit company did Moss consider turning an interest into a formal pursuit.

The friends knew the only thing that stood between them and success was the need to learn the business side of fashion while providing for their families. Moss’s club days were behind him as he was now a married man and father, and the same applied to Anthony. So, in addition to full-time jobs, they apprenticed at Persona, a Dallas-based suit company, for a year before starting Franklin & Anthony.

“We worked to learn the game and to have an understanding of how things worked. We were able to do research to find fabric companies, and that’s when we found the tailors and everything we needed,” said Moss. (The owner of Persona gave his blessing to the duo to study the business. He and Moss remain good friends today.)

Franklin & Anthony opened in 2015, offering an alternative to the fast-casual trends athleisure helped create. But the multi-billion-dollar fashion industry has never intimidated Moss. On the contrary, it only helps his business. While three-piece suits and pocket squares are not as commonplace as leggings and poly-blend golf polos, there is a consumer base looking for sophisticated options. Even in Fort Worth.

“There are still people who live a gentleman’s life or believe in that world of looking good and feeling good,” said Moss. And it’s those individuals Franklin & Anthony serves.

Moss works with his clients to design a suit or wardrobe from scratch, incorporating elements that reflect their personality. Not only do clients walk away with an outfit tailored to fit like a glove, but they also receive an education in the process. Rather than designing behind closed doors before presenting a finished piece to the client, Moss adopts the role of collaborative partner, preferring to involve his clients in all decisions so that they leave with an understanding of and an appreciation for how their suit was built. “I feel like we create the suit together,” said Moss who shies away from being labeled a “designer.”

photo credit: Angie Garcia

In almost a decade of business, some things have changed at Franklin & Anthony. Keaon Anthony left in 2016 to focus on family, and Moss now runs things with another Anthony – Michael Anthony. COVID hit, but their sales doubled. Their customer base now extends well beyond Texas. A true-to-its-roots operation, Franklin & Anthony collaborates with local artists like Sunflowerman and embraces the Western culture of the city, designing a line of high-end denim and pearl snap shirts. “We’re trying to show that you can do luxury menswear and still be a Fort Worth person… because we’re fancy whether we want to acknowledge it or not,” said Moss. The company also plans to open a haberdashery in late 2024 or 2025, employing in-house tailors and pattern cutters from a Dallas-area design school.

Moss’s designs are bold and assertive, but he’s humbled by his success, always acknowledging the friends, partners, and mentors he’s encountered along the way. He’ll tell you he’s still earning his seat at the table. Whether true or not, he’s sure to be the best-dressed one seated there.

The post The Man Definitely Makes the Suit first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Carter Family Workshop: Creative Construction
November 4
Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Grab a hammer! It’s time to build. Spend the afternoon exploring The World Outside: Louise Nevelson at Midcentury and work together to create your own assemblage sculptures! Family Workshops are a bimonthly program designed for children 6 to 12 years old and their favorite adults.

Courage Through Fire
Every Saturdays, November 4 through March 9
SiNaCa Studios

Courage Through Fire is a 10-week (40 hour) program offered to members of our Armed services, Veterans, and active duty. This program introduces several hot and warm beginning techniques of glass art creation through item/project-based teaching. This program is an amazing introduction to each of our studios, affording the participant the opportunity to learn the scientific principles and rich history behind studio art glass while practicing a wide variety of glass making techniques; glass blowing, sand casting, kiln forming, cold working, and flame working. Participants are hands on with the material through every meeting and leave this program with a new appreciation and understanding of glass as an artistic medium.

50^th Anniversary Japanese Festival
November 4-5
Japanese Garden, Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Visitors are invited to celebrate the vibrant colors of fall in the Japanese Garden while exploring the arts and culture of Japan during the Fall Japanese Festival on Nov. 4-5. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Japanese Garden’s opening in 1973. Events include Taiko Drummers, Japanese swordsmanship demonstrations, traditional tea ceremonies, origami and calligraphy demonstrations, as well as various vendors. Entrance to the festival is free with garden admission.

First Tuesday at Stage West
November 7
Stage West

Since 1998, The Four Hornsmen of the Apocalypse have been enchanting audiences with their incredible musical skills and hilarious banter. They’ve played everywhere, from fancy symphonies to sketchy public restrooms, proving that no venue is too classy or too questionable for their horn-tastic performances. They’re not just entertaining; they also educate aspiring horn players, sharing their laid-back “wisdom” and giving everyone a chance to learn from the masters…of horn, that is. We kick it off at 6pm. A drink and bar snacks are included with your ticket.

Far Out Feast: An Evening with Chefs Felipe Armenta and Graham Elliot
November 8
Fort Worth Club

Join us for a magical evening as Fort Worth’s most creative culinary duo prepare a once in a lifetime meal showcasing the flavors and cuisine from some of the city’s favorite restaurants, Maria’s Mexican Kitchen, Le Margot, F1 Smokehouse and Cowboy Prime. This unforgettable evening will also include the presentation of the Walter Kaufmann Lifetime Achievement Award to The Renfro Family.

The BIG GOOD Winter Fashion Event
November 9
Neiman Marcus, Clearfork

Join us for an exciting winter fashion event at Neiman Marcus in Fort Worth, TX! Get ready to embrace the chilly weather in style with the latest trends and designs. Mark your calendars and come join us for a fun-filled evening of bites, drinks and an exciting live runway show! Attendees are invited to attend with a minimum $50 donation to THE BIG GOOD. All proceeds benefit our partnership with the Tarrant Area Food Bank.

Second Thursdays at the Carter: Paws & Pictures
November 9
Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Join us every second Thursday to connect with art through cocktails, conversations, and creativity. This month, bring your best friend (pup or person) for an evening of PAWsome activities on our Plaza crafted with your canine in mind.

55^th Annual Fort Worth Greek Festival
November 10-12
St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church

Their grandfathers came from Europe only to face bigotry and Ku Klux Klan bullying, all to work in a Stockyards fertilizer room for $10 a week. A century later, almost the only time we talk about Fort Worth’s Greek and eastern European roots is on this November weekend, when their church celebrates its Greek Festival of food, music, and dance. You are invited to join in the celebration!

FWSO Presents Bond and Beyond
November 10-12
Bass Performance Hall

Iconic lines in film deserve iconic music, and like 007 himself the music accompanying his films inspired its own smooth, spy-thriller soundtracks. Beginning with Bond’s own theme, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra explores jaunty music from different crime thrillers in the James Bond franchise as well as hits from Mission Impossible, The Incredibles, Pink Panther, and more. Rest assured, the orchestra’s sound will be shaken, not stirred.

Pumpkins & Pancakes
November 11
Fort Worth Zoo

Join us Saturday, Nov. 11, for the 14th annual Pumpkins & Pancakes, an exclusive fall event to express our appreciation to Zoo members! Enjoy an early Zoo opening, pumpkin- and fall-themed animal enrichment, keeper chats and free train and carousel rides all day. Tickets for an optional hot pancake breakfast are available for purchase. Adult meal tickets for both members and their non-member guests are $15. Child and senior meal tickets for both members and their non member guests are $11. The breakfast buffet will be served in The Reserve, the Zoo’s event pavilion located next to the African Savanna habitat.

John Wayne Grit Series 5K Run
November 11
Fort Worth Stockyards

Join us on November 11 for the annual 5K John Wayne Grit Series run in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards! The course starts at the John Wayne: An American Experience exhibit and weaves through the cobblestone streets of the Stockyards to Trinity Trail where you’ll take in views of the downtown Fort Worth Skyline. This run benefits the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, and every step advances the fight against cancer. Bring the whole family… you won’t want to miss it!

2023 Texas Country Music Awards
November 12
Billy Bob’s Texas

The 2023 Texas Country Music Awards which again will be held in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards at the world’s largest Honky Tonk, Billy Bob’s Texas on Sunday, November 12. It will include several top Texas Country Music performers including Jason Boland and the Stragglers, Coffey Anderson, Chad Cooke Band, and many more.

Blues Traveler
November 14
Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall

Because the hook brings you back… Blues Traveler comes to Fort Worth with a show at Tannahill’s. One of the premier jam bands emerging in the 1990s, Blues Traveler just released their Traveler’s Soul album. House opens an hour before the show, and remember to suck it in, suck it in, suck it in if you’re Rin Tin Tin or Anne Boleyn!

photo credit: Shannon Lange Photography

Adoption Rocks with Abraham Alexander
November 16
Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall

Come join us for an incredible evening of music and celebration at Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall in Fort Worth, TX! Get ready to groove to the soulful tunes of the talented Abraham Alexander. This in-person event promises to be a night to remember, filled with amazing performances and good vibes. So gather your friends and purchase your tickets for a rocking night of fun and entertainment. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to support adoption and enjoy a fantastic live performance by Madeworthy cover Abraham Alexander!

Lightscape
November 17-Jan 1
Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Lightscape returns for a second year to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden to dazzle audiences with more than one million holiday lights and never-before-seen artistic installations from around the world throughout a 1.2-mile-long winding walking trail. Beginning Nov. 17^th and running select nights through Jan. 1^st, this year’s Lightscape will feature all-new, custom-designed installations that will come alive with color, imagination, and sound. Lightscape 2023 will also feature an all-new “Christmas Village,” complete with fire pits, s’more-roasting, hot cocoa, holiday music, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus.

GM Financial Parade of Lights
November 19
Downtown Fort Worth

What began in 1983 with a crowd of only 25,000 spectators and 25 floats has grown to become Fort Worth’s most beloved holiday tradition and Texas’ largest illuminated holiday parade. The GM Financial Parade of Lights returns to the streets of downtown Fort Worth for its 41^st year on November 19. Year-after-year, North Texas families gather to experience the lights on 100+ professionally designed floats, energetic marching bands, sparkling antique cars, precision equestrian units, festive horse-drawn carriages, and carolers spreading Christmas cheer along the 1.59-mile parade route.

FWSO Presents Home for the Holidays
November 24-26
Bass Performance Hall

Fort Worth’s favorite holiday traditions start when the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra kicks off the season! Bring your family for a spectacular program of Christmas carols and seasonal tunes. Wave to Santa as the orchestra plays his theme song “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” as part of the perfect gift for the whole family.

Saturday After Thanksgiving at Martin House
November 25
Martin House Brewing

The air is crisp. The leaves are falling. That’s weather, baby. Saturday After Thanksgiving is a favorite tradition here at Martin House. Bring the whole fam! The petting zoo is coming back to the brewery. We’ll have some rad live music. Saturday After Thanksgiving is always a beautiful day in the Martin House backyard. We are bringing back our friends Possessed by Paul James and Ole G for live music. Ole G always kills it with his good vibes and rasta/reggae jams. PPJ is one man folk/americana band. It is truly a remarkable show and we can’t wait to jam on the back patio.

The FABBA Show Live at Ridglea Theater
November 30
The Historic Ridglea Theater

The FABBA Show’s sensational tribute to super group ABBA is here! ‘The best ABBA since ABBA’! Famed for its flashy stage production and high energy, the show features all ABBA’s top hits, spectacular costumes, World class musicianship, plenty of audience interaction and fun. ‘Everyone is dancing in the aisles and singing at the top of their voices’. Houston Chronicle. ‘The World’s top ABBA tribute show.’ The London Times. ‘If they come near you, go see them! They are amazing!!’ You may even get a selfie with them after the show.

Night Market
November 30
The Shack at Panther Island

This festival favorite is embracing a whole new autumnal vibe! Grab a cozy sweater and a couple of friends for this fall event at Panther Island Pavilion. From Mumbai to Mexico City, the world’s hottest culinary hubs receive the star treatment at this street market experience. Savor global culinary flavors and traditions with every bite and indulge in mixed drinks as 14 mixologists craft cocktails, each featuring a different spirit. Plus, jumpstart your Holiday shopping with the best gift in town, as this event marks the launch of ticket sales for the 2024 Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival December 1, the next day. *All Night Market ticket purchasers will be able to buy the 10th Annual Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival tickets starting THAT NIGHT, 12 hours in advance of the release to the public. Your ticket covers all of the food and beverages you can (responsibly) consume at the event. Just bring your appetite and enjoy!

The post Pumpkins and Spice and Everything Nice: November’s Fun in the Fort first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Over three weeks and with over 20 events, Spark Fest 2022, a developmental workshop festival at Amphibian Stage, seeks to give viewers a peek behind the curtain to experience firsthand how theater productions go from page to stage.

Since its inception, Amphibian Stage has invested in creative development through workshops, early-stage readings, and comic residencies. The theater is passionate about uplifting creators and building a stage for their forward-looking work to shine. The First Annual Spark Fest launched in 2021, building on the early success of this work and seeking to go beyond the status quo; the second annual Festival will invite more producers, directors, and actors from across the nation than ever before to partake in creative synergy with local creators and audiences.

From kids’ comedy classes, professional workshops, readings, panels, and new play development, Spark Fest will ignite excitement amongst all creatives, both expert and novice alike. Launching the two weeks of creativity with panache on July 15, 2022, from 7 – 10 pm is “Light up the Runway,” a quick-paced costume design competition with a twist! Six notable Fort Worthians will create teams that compete to create the best gown or costume with limited time and the unusual items found lying around the theatre, hoping to be crowned “Best Aspiring Fashion Designers.” As a thrilling highlight, Director and Writer Steven Dietz, lauded as one of the country’s most prolific and widely produced playwrights, will show his current play under development to audiences for the first time. Haunted Play [A Tale of the Naïve and Macabre] will take the stage on July 23 at 7 pm, and July 24 at 11 am.

For ticket pricing, schedule of events, and artist bios visit amphibianstage.com.

The post Pay Attention to the Man Behind the Curtain! first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

It’s no surprise these fashion experts chose Pantone’s 2022 color of the year, Very Peri, for their inspiration. Both hit the nail on the head, looking at once formidable and alluring. Samantha said to be on trend for spring, add bright colors, platform heels, preppy looks, micro miniskirts, and low-rise pants. She also warned not let trends dictate your entire look and to wear what works best for you.

Samantha Stewart and Frank Moss
photo credit: Angie Garcia

Madeworthy: What role does fashion play in your life?

Franklin Moss: Fashion is the key part of my business. Being the owner of Franklin & Anthony Suit Company that helps create looks (suits, trousers, waistcoats, jeans and shirts from scratch) for clients’ daily life, as well as those needing suits for special occasions, allows me to use fashion to serve people, helping them mentally and physically with confidence and pride in themselves, like clothes have done for me in my past.

Frank Moss
photo credit: Angie Garcia

Samantha Stewart: I’ve always loved fashion and use it to express myself creatively and emotionally. My mantra “Dress for How You WANT to Feel” is something that I do daily. My love for fashion started at a young age when my mother and I would watch the “Fashion Report” on the news with Christiane Amanpour. We grew up modestly, and I used inspiration from magazines to recreate outfits with what I had in my closet (which wasn’t much). It taught me to be resourceful and creative when it comes to clothes.

MW: What do you love about each of the clothing and/or accessories you wore?

SS: Overall, I love the periwinkle (lavender) color that is the Pantone color of 2022, which represents joy and creativity. Christy Lynn, the designer of my dress, is a Houston-based sustainable luxury brand.

MW: What do you suggest people do to elevate their fashion choices?

FM: I have always suggested three things to add to a person’s fashion:

1. Layering in pieces also adds to any outfit, whether vest, sweater, cardigans, or a denim jacket/vest. Creating layers adds more depth even in the summer.
   2. Accessories like pocket squares, glasses, bracelets, watches, and rings add to your look, but be aware of limits. Doing too much can be just that – too much.
   3. Do not be afraid to have one pop of color, meaning don’t be afraid to simplify an outfit with solid colors with one splash of color through an item, not wearing so many colors and patterns but keeping monotone in place for a harder effect.

Samantha Stewart
photo credit: Angie Garcia

SS: You can have the most expensive item, but if it doesn’t fit you well, then the clothes are wearing you instead of you wearing the clothes. Spend that little bit to get something hemmed or taken in. And don’t worry about sizes. They are different in every brand. You can always have something taken in if it’s too big versus getting something too small that doesn’t make you feel good about yourself. 

MW: Which accessories do you make sure to include in your ensemble? Where do you suggest people shop for these?

SS: Jewelry is one of my favorite parts of an outfit whether is a statement earring or layered necklaces. Fort Worth has amazing places to shop for amazing jewelry. You Are Here, Bachendorfs, and Neiman Marcus have fantastic fine jewelry selections. Hale House and Beehive have fabulous on-trend jewelry. Laude the Label and The Worthy Co have beautiful sustainable jewelry.

FM: Pocket square, bracelet, and watch. I used to recommend brooches, but now I believe the simpler the better. [Frank recommends finding these accessories at Franklin & Anthony and Thirty Fifty.

You can follow these fashion voices on Instagram at @styleofsam and @franklinandanthony

Samantha Stewart and Frank Moss
photo credit: Angie Garcia

The post Crowning Color of 2022 first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Chance and his wife Kala produce some of Fort Worth’s most creative custom printed goods and merchandise. Started in 2015, the Morgans opened their brick-and-mortar retail location in the Near Southside in 2019. Their in-house label, Panther City Provisions, is now seen on some of Fort Worth’s most influential influencers. Chance and Kala’s eye for design have elevated Morgan Mercantile from a simple print and promo company to a company that reflects the creative vibe of Funkytown.

Chance and Kala Morgan
photo credit: Nate Goins

Madeworthy: How did you get started with Morgan Mercantile?

Chance Morgan: Previous to Morgan Mercantile, I was in a band called Burning Hotels and had graduated from UTA with a BFA in Photography. As the band was winding down, I was introduced to the apparel industry and took a job as sales rep while bartending. I was always more interested in production and design, so I tried to learn everything I could about screen printing, embroidery, and niche custom manufacturing capabilities… which is what we do for our clients at Morgan Mercantile.

MW: Tell us about Panther City Provisions.

Chance: Panther City Provisions is our in-house label for our retail division of Morgan Mercantile. When we opened our brick and mortar, my wife Kala, came on as director of retail operations and runs our South Main shop. We focus on everyday goods including apparel, headwear, accessories, and home goods. We got our retail start from doing pop-ups at Arts Goggle in Near Southside and releasing an annual Fort Worth-based collection of goods, like our “Panther City” tee.

photo credit: Nate Goins

MW: Your design eye is spot on; how do you get your inspiration for design and products?

Chance: I have always been obsessed with hand lettering, sign painting, and packaging, so we use the nostalgia of classic design to guide us. We lived in Arlington Heights for a couple of years, and I would see this older gentleman with incredible style painting all the signs up Camp Bowie, so I just pulled over one day and introduced myself. Donald Clark, better known as “The Sign Man,” as his business cards states, is also one of my biggest inspirations. He cuts lines, tells stories, and enriches our community with his work and love for making old things new.

MW: The theme of this issue is “Build a Future”, how does MM help build futures for the companies and brands you work with?

Chance: We really try to just help guide all the positive things the client is currently doing and produce them into goods that you want to actually live in. Designing and developing the art is the hardest part but dialing in those special characteristics that make people truly love a brand goes beyond cool assets. At the end of the day, we are also pretty good at just making stuff cool.

photo credit: Nate Goins

MW: For business owners reading this, what is the most important item you would recommend that they have as part of their branded swag?

Chance: I think more importantly than an item, know who you want to be. If you know who you are as a brand, you’ll know who you are making goods for. If I had to choose one item, I think a cost-effective tote with a one color logo is a core piece. It’s utilitarian, accessible to most, and a noncommittal item that you can rep without having to wear it across your chest.

MW: You seem to leverage social media well. What do you think about the future of social media and the new “metaverse”?

Chance: We try to stay consistent and just focus on the things that are important to us and our community. It’s honestly one of the hardest parts of what we do, but you can’t take days off or decide when it is not a priority. I wish it wasn’t that way, but it is integral to business and our voice… not to mention Facebook/Meta Fort Worth Data Center is a long-time client.

photo credit: Nate GoinsM

The post Made in Fort Worth: Morgan Mercantile first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.