What type of dress code fills you with dread? And what’s your workaround for that?

“Casual.” It’s so vague! My workaround is elevating the essentials. If denim is involved, it must be
impeccably cut and paired with something that makes a statement. Casual should still feel considered.

A luncheon is on the calendar. How might you approach putting together a look for that?

Luncheon dressing is one of life’s great pleasures. I’d lean into a feminine silhouette—maybe a dress with fullness—and a kitten heel or platform that’s sturdy enough to get from lunch to the next event. I adore a statement earring or necklace at lunch; it’s a built-in conversation starter.

What are your thoughts on costume parties? All in with the DIY, or politely decline?

I kind of think of life as a costume party—the chicer the better! No silly themes; I love to dress up. Life is short: ski in the woolly chaps or quilted skirt…wear the feathers! A costume party is simply an excuse to experiment without restraint, but always do it with taste and don’t err on tacky.

The 5 p.m. slump has hit, but a dinner party is on the cards. What will energize you when shifting from day to night?

Putting on a full skirt is transformative for me. That, and a margarita.

You’ve no time to think about what to wear for an after-work gathering but you want to feel chic: what outfit formula always works for you in a bind?

You know the old saying “before you leave, take one thing off”—I say add one thing on! I think there’s a real power in adding one great accessory, whether it’s a belt layered over a blazer, or a statement necklace over a sweater. It just changes the tone and even your mindset.

What’s your read on cocktail attire, in general?

For probably my entire working career my go-to motto when entertaining has been “nothing says chic like matching your drink to your dress and your dress to your table.” Whether you’re hosting or attending, I think that mindset applies. Cocktail is about the art and celebration of coming together—which I think is always worth dressing up for.

What about black tie? Do you like to take risks, or play it pretty safe?

Truthfully, I don’t think my name and “safe” have ever come up together. I am constantly thinking of new ways to reinvent the meaning of black tie—both in design and in practice. I truly don’t believe black tie means wearing long anymore; I see it being synonymous with dressing your best and dressing elegantly—which is a challenge I am always up for!

What after-dark pieces get the most wear in your wardrobe, year after year?

My giant eye mask which practically covers my entire face!

Do you have a favorite party-ready piece or accessory?

I carry a Tonya Hawkes fringed bag that we designed together for our stores. It’s the most fun bag to carry at night and is a guaranteed conversation stater.

What’s always in your evening bag?

A sewing kit—you never know when you’ll need it, or need to be the hero for someone else who does! Either way, it’s the designer in me.

Guests celebrated the Lela Rose x Lucchese collection at the Pump House in Dallas, Texas earlier this month