For creative Bryan Costello, style is just as much an art form as his interior design projects.
Kernersville-bred, Raleigh-based freelance interiors and art director Bryan Costello’s creative chops extend far beyond his day job. Beyond helping people create meaningful spaces—painting, curating art collections and working with all kinds of makers—he says, “I obsess over furniture; I stay up too late; I treat clothing like art; I watch feel-good television; I have anxiety; I eat pasta; and, more than anything, I love talking with people about what makes them feel happy and free.” Pretty much #goals. He also really digs his sweetheart Donna and their beagle, Noche. … And on that “clothing like art thing” note: hence why he’s the quintessential subject for our latest Signature Style. His wardrobe and vision are but its own exercise in creative freedom and artistic expression. Here, we scoop his style. @c_o_s_t_e_l_l_o
Hometown: I grew up in Kernersville and have spent most of my adult years in Raleigh and Austin. I live in Mordecai now.
What do you love most about Raleigh: The people, without a doubt. From the moment I landed here in the summer of 2006, my community has grown into an unbelievable number of kind, creative, quirky humans who make this city what it is.
Currently listening to: Music and podcasts are a huge part of every day for me, so this list changes constantly. This week in music it’s Westerman, The Lounge Lizards, Dante High, Frank Ocean and Aero Flynn, and podcast Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend.
Style influencers: This is a really tough question because, to be honest, I don’t look to anyone to influence what I wear. Don’t get me wrong—I see people out in the world who blow me away with their sense of style, but it’s always because they’re in tune with themselves and reflect it beautifully through their looks. The best style is always personal and impossible to replicate. Deana Nguyen (Feature Flora founder); Jamil Rashad (aka Boulevards); my partner, Donna Orr (Dear Hearts co-founder )—all great local examples of personal style I admire. You can tell when someone has it, they glow a little.
Favorite clothing labels: Bode, KidSuper, Raleigh Denim. There are also so many kids you can find online who are sewing, painting, embroidering and creating one-of-a-kind art clothes. I love discovering their work and their stories.
Boxers or briefs: Always trunk briefs. Men’s underwear is a tough game; it took me years to find a near-perfect pair. I wear CDLP.
Local go-to shop: Raleigh Denim after closing time. (Big thanks to Victor Lytvinenko and my art family for collaborating on a couple of custom pieces for this shoot!)
Last great meal: Donna and I like to host little dinners on our side porch where we can eat well; listen to music; and have the deepest, weirdest conversations with all of the interesting characters in our lives. Lately it’s been hot dogs with every topping you can dream of. If I’m going out though, you’ll find me eating at Stanbury and Garland.
Go-to piece in your closet: 1983 Supersole No. 404 Red Wing boots. I wear them to walk the dog; I wear them to meetings; and last week, I wore them to a wedding.
Current dream destinations: Sweden, Italy, Japan. I’ll go anywhere to eat thoughtful food and stay in a beautiful hotel.
Style secret: Enjoyment and connection! If you don’t look at personal style as a creative outlet, as something fun to play around with, no sweat—it’s not for everyone. But there’s real joy to be found with clothing; you interact with it constantly; it keeps you cool; it warms you up; it holds your stuff; it protects you; it’s got your back. With my interior design work, I’m always searching for that spark of connection in the objects we surround ourselves with. What do we surround ourselves with more than the clothes we wear?
Moment in your life that inspired your style: I didn’t care much about style when I was young. What I did care about was soccer. And, every season, I’d get a new pair of boots, always a different brand, always a different color. There was a magic around stepping into that new pair of cleats. I would even wear them in the shower so the leather would form to my feet as they dried. In return, they’d make me feel powerful on the field. Years later, the equipment has changed, but the feeling is the same.
Currently wearing, from left: Look one: Hat: Eddie Chacon merch; long coat: 1/1 handpainted Raleigh Denim; shirt: vintage Marcello, Cheshire Cat; pants: vintage wool navy trousers. Father & Son Antiques socks: Reebok; shoes: Weejuns lug penny loafers. Look two: Suede fringe jacket: my late grandfather’s collection; sweater: Selected Homme; collared shirt: vintage find, Father & Son Antiques; pants: 1/1 handpainted Raleigh Denim; socks: Pair of Thieves; boots: H by Hudson; necklace: Donna’s late mother’s collection; ring: We Are Ancients.
Raleigh’s “basic” neighbor is turning into a thriving mini metropolis boasting all sorts of new and unique bar and restaurant concepts.
Query any Raleigh native or longtime Raleighite about Cary and you’re likely to hear them rattle off a laundry list of reasons Cary is (insert countless negative terms here) with relative contempt. Vanilla. Culturally void. Monochromatic. Basic. Big Boxes. Boring. (Alexa, cue the intro to The Weeds). And, let’s not forget—full of transplants. But the so-dubbed “Concentrated Area for Relocated Yankees” (among other not-so-flattering acronyms) has slowly but surely—and, now, not so subtly—been evolving before our very eyes into a smart, savvy, tech-driven mecca… thanks to the likes of hot spots like SideBar, Hank’s Downtown Dive, Bond Brothers Beer Company, etc.; big grabs like Epic Games; and upcoming dining and entertainment destinations like Fenton, to name a few. No longer defined by limited options or concentrated only with chains, this mini metropolis is upping its mojo. Here, we give you four brand-new reasons to add Cary to your list of hip places to hang.
Bull City Ciderworks
An apple (cider) a day keeps the doctor away, and now Raleighites will be able to get their daily dose closer to home with Bull City Ciderworks’ new Cary location, slated to open in late December or January. The new digs combine both an old and new vibe, what with the restored historic Williams House in the front and a brand-new outdoor brick seating area in the back. And while we’re uberexcited to throw back one (or three) of BCC’s signature rotating seasonal ciders, we’re also pretty pumped for the taproom’s new cider cocktails. Cheers! bullcityciderworks.com Must try: Cherry Tart + any seasonal offering
Vicious Fishes Brewery
Get ready to dive into this nautical-themed brewery’s new taproom in Downtown Cary, a $2 million project that will transform the warehouse space at 510 Old Apex Road. Though of course Vicious Fishes’ beer is the star of its enterprise, the new location will feature a ton of outdoor space, complete with trees, green space and a beer garden. The brewery will also incorporate a larger brew system that will allow for 5 times more brewing capacity. We’ll drink to that. viciousfishes.com Must try: Vicious Fishes’ flagship Here Be Dragons IPA
a’Verde Cocina & Tequila Library
Let’s taco bout how chef Katsuji Tanabe’s new modern Mexican restaurant (a partnership with LM Restaurants) isn’t your run-of-the-mill fast-casual Mexican eatery. Instead of the heaps of rice, beans and cheese found in most of the dishes served at those (nevertheless craveworthy) restaurants, Tanabe’s menu—inspired by family recipes he grew up eating at his childhood family table in Mexico City—will put an emphasis on vegetables and seafood. Not to mention that a’Verde will nixtamalize its own corn for tortillas. Nom nom. averdecary.com Must try: Tender cochinita pibil (a Yucatán-style marinated pork dish)
La Grassa Pastificio
Ciao, bella! This pasta-tively charming new upscale-casual restaurant features handcrafted Italian cuisine utilizing high-quality local produce and specialty imported foods from Italy and beyond. Think stracciatella, tagliatelle Bolognese, saltimbocca and cauliflower gratini, along with seasonal specials sure to tempt your palate. Wash everything down with a glass (or bottle—no judgment) of vino to transport your taste buds to an Italian trattoria. lagrassaitaliano.com Must try: Rigatoni ‘Matrciana, followed by the budino al cioccolato (Italian chocolate pudding)
Sick of looking at your four walls? Airbnbs across the state have something for everyone—and we did the hard work for you. Whether you’re a vino lover, retro seeker, woodsy type or looking for a boujee getaway, here are four unique finds for a breath of fresh air.
By Melissa Howsam and Lauren Kruchten
Woodsy Type | Tiny Geopod Todd, NC
If you’re feeling like you need a little Walden-like “into the woods” in your life, get your “wild and free” on in this 130-square-foot clear dome (!) powered from a nearby community solar garden and surrounded by lush forests accentuated by the Blue Ridge Mountains. While here, “live deliberately” 2021-style (as Thoreau surely intended) via private hot tub, fire table and pit, gazebo, and comfy outdoor furniture—perfect for settling in with some bourbon (or cocoa) and a good book—plus an outdoor breakfast bar and kitchen for meal cooking, naturally. (And, yes, there is a “high-end” bathroom and WiFi—it’s all about balance).
After learning what the woods have to teach from your tiny geopod with its three unique outdoor areas—or full-on hike—expand your horizons with a five-minute walk to historic downtown Todd (Todd Mercantile is a must-stop for locally baked goods and unique vintage finds)—or a short drive to either downtown Boone or West Jefferson. Then, naturally, venture back to your woodsy haven and lose yourself for a bit. airbnb.com/rooms/45557210
Vino Lover | Emerald Treehouse Hendersonville, NC
Sip back, relax and uncork the tranquility of life in the Blue Ridge Mountains at this gorge mod mountain retreat situated just two minutes from Point Lookout Vineyards and World’s Edge Meadery and 45 minutes from downtown Asheville. Cozy up with coffee and views on the twin-size porch swings before taking in pours and breathtaking 30-mile panoramic views from your perch at the nearby wineries. Then unwind from the day by the fire pit with a bottle of 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon or Orange Blossom Mead—or, better still, with a soak in the hot tub. Hey, hakuna moscato! No matter how you drink it in, this two-bed, two-bath cozy-chic space is plum perfect for a peaceful getaway for partners in wine.airbnb.com/rooms/47729049
Boujee Escape | Glass Treehouse Banner Elk, NC
Boujee birches be trippin’ for this boutique hotel-meets-Mother Nature luxe mountain retreat for two—boasting glass walls overlooking a mystical waterfall-laced woodland escape that allows you to fall asleep to the sounds of cascading water (seriously, it’s straight plucked from your dreams). Stone walls, a firewood alcove, a spa-like bathroom with heated floors and a rainfall showerhead pamper you indoors, while the serene Scandinavian vibes spill outside for dining by the fire pit, double hammock lounging and soaking in a private rhododendron thicket-tucked hot tub. For a more experiential escape, hit up nearby towns for shopping, hiking, and seasonal rafting or skiing—though once you’re in the treehouse, how could you leave…? @ncglasstreehouse
Minimalist to the Max | Scandi Minimalism Kill Devil Hills, NC
Who doesn’t love posting up in a tiny home by the out by the coast? If a swanky + shore-oriented stay is your style, find yourself booking a few nights at this outpost featured in Condé Nast Traveler as one of NC’s Best Airbnbs. Consider its modern minimalist lewks, groovy ’70s styling and open naturally lighted oasis your go-to beachy getaway. Think handselected Scandinavian pieces; a turntable and vinyl collection; serene outdoor shower strung with lights; and a sun deck/patio feat. a fire pit and gas grill.
To boot, the stand-alone stay is situated within walking distance to the Wright Memorial National Park with nearby bike paths connecting to the sound, ocean—and a smattering of craft breweries and restaurant hot spots. Stay groovy! airbnb.com/rooms/52130495
No planning, no problem. Local Emmy-winning broadcaster gives firsthand account of surprise travel agency Pack Up + Go.
By Rosalia Fodera
All we knew was that the weather report said it was going to be 50 degrees, we needed comfortable shoes, and we were getting on a plane at 5:45pm.
Our bags were packed, but I didn’t know where my fiance and I were going. In the RDU terminal, I opened an envelope with the words “No Peeking” written on the outside and pulled out a piece of paper saying “Chicago!” We were headed to the Windy City! Our hotel was booked, and we already had dinner reservations set for the weekend.
How?! Pack Up + Go—that’s how! … Let me back up. A month before that Friday in October, my fiance, Chris, and I decided we wanted to take a weekend trip, but couldn’t decide where.
Enter Pack Up + Go. We picked the budget, the dates—and the rest was up to them! The surprise travel agency has travel planners who live all over the country and are familiar with the best local spots. We filled out a survey with questions ranging from “what do you like to do on vacation?” to “what is important to you when traveling?” We said we love eating, relaxing and staying at nice hotels. When you book, you’ll decide between different budget options and whether you want to fly, take a train or road trip—and they pick the city. The budget includes your transportation, stay and a 20% fee. If there is money left over, Pack Up + Go will include “extras” like gift cards for food and Uber rides. In order not to end up somewhere you do not want to visit, you choose places to avoid upfront. I am from Boston, and we recently visited D.C., so those were on our avoid list.
But don’t worry—you don’t go into it completely blind. To pack accordingly, Pack Up + Go sends your destination’s weather report a week in advance and then an update two days prior. Inside the envelope is all the fun! It has your destination, reservations and suggested itinerary.
Our travel specialist, Lauren, made dinner reservations for Friday and Saturday nights. We went to one of the breakfast places she suggested on Saturday—delicious! We did not follow the itinerary exactly—we had guidance, but not a completely set schedule, and I loved that. We stayed at the Fairmont Chicago Hotel right near the river. Dinner at Quartino Ristorante and The Gage was great for us as foodies.
Ultimately, I loved showing up at the airport with my vacation planned for me. I didn’t have to look for flight times or figure out the best restaurants at which to secure reservations; however, I do wish we were given a budget breakdown to see how our money was spent.
So if you like having control over exactly where your money is going and where you stay, this would not be for you. But if you are ready for your next adventure and aren’t sure where to go, book with Pack Up + Go and thank me later! packupgo.com
Dean Davidson labradorite drop earrings with gold frame, $250. DressCode Style, dresscodestyle.com
Spread Joy this Holiday Season with Junie B’s cookies and cookie dough! Seasonal flavors for December include: Cinnamon Roll & Gingerbread Cookies and Cookie Dough! $10–$17, Junie B’s Bake Shop, juniebs.com
Luxury textiles shine in this limited-edition holiday Pippa McCalla jumbo clutch from the debut collection of North Carolina-based accessories line Pongopanna. $525,Pongopanna, pongopanna.comAvailable at Uniquities.
NC-based Topsail Steamer ships its signature Bay Buckets filled with local seafood, meats, corn, potatoes and homemade seasonings for people to steam, eat and enjoy! $60–$220, Topsail Steamer, topsailsteamer.com
Ancient apothecary diffuser, $49.99. Harmony Farms Natural Foods, harmonyfarms.net
Impressionist Gardens, vivid splashes of color, inspired by the exotic and varied floral range that show the Impressionist paintings. $218, CT Weekends, ctweekends.com
Classic diamond studs for every budget. From$175, Bailey’s Fine Jewelry. baileybox.com
Select a gift card from $25 up to $1,000. Blue Water Spa gift cards may be redeemed on medical spa services, including Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments, CoolSculpting and spa services. visitbluewaterspa.com
Young’s bestselling gift tin, The Seventh Heaven, is a heavenly combination of seven delicious pecan flavors! $37.95, youngspremiumfoods.com
A membership to The Butcher’s Market Steak of the Month Club is a great idea for the foodie or carnivore in your life. With membership, they will get a special handcut premium steak every month for six months, plus some great bonus offers. Gift cards are available in any amount as well. $151.95, The Butcher’s Market. thebutchersmarket.com
Naveran Dama de Barcelona 2018 (Penedes, Spain): Crisp notes of apple skins, brioche, baking spices and pears emerge from this fragrant mouth-filling dry-style sparkler, $28.99. Bodegas Manzanos 2009 (Rioja, Spain): Cool and forest-like in tone, this integrated wine has a lovely weave to its tannins, fruit, roasted coffee and cocoa, $24.99. BottleMixx, bottlemixx.com
The Mini Guyabano Burgundy lamp is small but provides a tremendous amount of light thanks to its oval shape. The exterior of the lamp highlights the beautifully placed guyabano leaves while the inside of the shade is wrapped in cocoa leaves to provide a high-quality finish. $199.99, Logan’s Garden Shop. logantrd.com
’Tis the season for sharing. What better way to celebrate than with sweet and savory Gourmet Gift Sets from Hampton Farms? From $44, Hampton Farms, hamptonfarms.com
Jurate Lady Boss gold link chain necklace with lock. $78, Ella Collective, shopellacollective.com
The North Hills gift card is the perfect gift for any occasion! Use it at almost any North Hills store, restaurant or salon. Purchase online, visitnorthhills.com/gift-cards
Jane Marie garden tote in navy. $89.99, Logan’s Garden Shop, logantrd.com
Craft up craft cocktails in your home with this holiday gift box of syrups and agave, recipe cards—plus the tools to make your home your new favorite bar. $50.00, On My Way Bartending, onmywaybartending.com
Cairo Scarlet necklace, inspired by the enigmatic and suggestive gold works of ancient Egypt, $208, CT Weekends, ctweekends.com
