Too many clothes—nothing to wear? So goes the daily struggle: standing in your closet, pre-annoyed, rifling through a pile of “this won’t work” with a side of “I can’t justify buying another thing” guilt. Rinse, wash, repeat.
Of all the AI hacks worth computing, data dressing may just be the move. Think of it as a digital stylist with no commission—or Cher’s virtual dressing program a la Clueless. Read: swapping wasted buys and decision fatigue for practical solutions with—wait for it—what you already own.
Before you tune out, closet coding isn’t some futuristic Ponzi scheme—and no, AI isn’t about to purge your wardrobe. Instead, tools like ChatGPT and other styling apps or wardrobe trackers can take stock of what you already have to build outfits and plan necessary purchases.
Like AI’ing your fridge to avoid a Hunger Games-style grocery run, it doesn’t require laborious hours of charting. You just snap a pic of your closet (for the hoarders, make sure all items are visible) and it does the rest.
The result: less overconsumption, fewer impulse buys, more intentional style—and way less morning brainpower. Ultimately, AI’s a tool, not taste. It won’t replace personal style—but it can sharpen it. The best looks still start with knowing yourself. And that’s a rinse, wash, repeat we can get behind.
How to AI Your Closet – Upload photos of what you actually own – Give context: workdays, weekends, nights out – Ask for outfit combos (or packing lists) – Ask what to buy based on gaps—not trends – Use it to pack smarter or build wardrobes
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.
A graduate of UNC Greensboro, Paul Hodges has spent the last 13 years working for locally owned and operated O2 Fitness, helping facilitate clubs throughout Raleigh and western Wake. The work, Hodges says, “helped shape many relationships and organizations of this growing community.” Currently, Hodges is the executive assistant for MDO Holdings, a local investment and management firm (and O2 Fitness owner) focused on building strong and healthy communities.
Paul Hodges | Photo by Joshua Steadman
Paul Hodges | Photo by Joshua Steadman
Jacket: “Tallia Orange” dragon embroidered blazer; Shirt: Burberry; Watch: Daniel Wellington; Shoes: Gucci; Pants: Michael Kors
Hometown: Born and mostly raised in Raleigh, I am a true native to the City of Oaks. But I have been blessed to have parents from different parts of North Carolina, my mother from the foothills (Winston-Salem) and my father, a Cary native. They taught me the importance of Southern charm and manners, clinging to family traditions and upholding an honest work ethic.
Your neighborhood: I live in the corner pocket of the Glenwood South and Capital Districts. Among all the high rises, new construction and train tracks, I somehow live a peaceful, urban lifestyle in a tight-knit community where my neighbors are like family. Plus, I can walk anywhere downtown in under 15 minutes flat!
What do you love most about Raleigh: We have the greatest sense of community and support for each other. We strive for diversity, acceptance and love, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity and class status. Whenever I walk through the city, I look at the oak trees that have stood the test of time, standing tall and strong; a true symbol of the strength this city and its people embody.
Currently reading: I just finished “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. Another recent read is Garth Stein’s “The Art of Racing in the Rain,” a poignant tale written from the perspective of a dog and his owner about how our relationships with animals are forever embodied in unconditional love—grab a box of Kleenex, or three!
Currently listening to: I just started the podcast Dolly Parton’s America; her music and euphonious speaking voice make for the most joyous listening experience in American storytelling. When it comes to music flair, I am an old soul for the classics: Motown, jazz standards, cocktail lounge tunes that help me escape to another era where class and decorum never went out of style!
Style mantra: Style should be focused on the three C’s: Colorful, Clean and Classic.
Style influencer: John F. Kennedy mastered relaxed, laid-back sophistication. He would take a neutral toned crew neck sweater, paired with a fresh pair of pressed chinos, penny loafers, the perfect pair of tortoise-shell Saratoga sunglasses—and would wear them with complete confidence. He is an icon that set the standard for classic, Ivy league style that still graces the modern look for men.
Favorite clothing labels: I love vintage clothing, so Ralph Lauren is a staple in my closet. Over the years, I have been collecting seasonal sport coats by Tallia Orange, a fresh concept in tailored clothing with a unique array of fabrics, designs and colors. When summer hits the South (in mid-April), I gravitate toward vibrant colors, such as Lilly Pulitzer (yes, they make it for men too) or Vineyard Vines, as a casual, beach resort-attire look.
Boxers or briefs: Honey, don’t make me blush through my tan…I’ll turn purple!
Local go-to shop: Locally, you’ll find an array of vintage brand clothing at Revolver. I’ve found Gucci and Burberry at remarkable prices there. Otherwise, I’m guaranteed to find a bargain at the Belk Men’s department at Crabtree Valley Mall.
Last great dinner: Barcelona Restaurant and Wine Bar. I love that the ever-changing menu is focused on clean flavors, seasonal ingredients, specialties from Spain and the Mediterranean paired with some of the best wine in the city.
Go-to piece: I always keep a freshly ironed, white button down, preferably done by a dry cleaner (yes, people will notice) and a navy sport coat on hand. Pair with a simple watch and it’s a sharp contrast to the ordinary, pedestrian looks of today. And I always accessorize with a vibrant pocket square.
Favorite piece of jewelry: A pair of sterling silver Tiffany cufflinks that I only wear to formal weddings and events. It was my first purchase, while in college, when I had saved up enough money to buy an expensive item that would be a forever keepsake. They’re a simple reminder that if you want nice things, you have to work hard for them.
Travel dreaming: The Greek Isles; Santorini, Mykonos, Ios. I love Greek and Mediterranean culture and the food has always been a staple in my diet. Besides, who would pass up an ocean view sunset, sipping Avaton, listening to ABBA?
Staying fit: Part of my job is teaching group fitness classes so I’m cycling, interval training, leading senior fitness formats anywhere between five and six times a week. I try to drink 160-180 ounces of water a day. I also believe everything in life should be done in moderation; exercise, food, work, play. A lifestyle of moderation is just as important as physical fitness and mental wellness, especially as we age.
Favorite drink: I love a well-stirred gin martini, not too light, not too heavy, with a layer of thinly crushed ice and a lemon twist. Royale makes the best one I’ve ever had, hands down! I prefer Beefeaters gin, with an added secret ingredient; French vermouth (my favorite is Boiserie which adds a subtle floral, citrusy flavor).
Style secret: You can never be overdressed or overeducated. Style is greatly affected by your attitude and demeanor.
Moment in your life that inspired your style: In high school, I remember watching “The Talented Mr. Ripley” in the theater and being immersed in the era of the late 1950s/early ’60s fashion. The film is about passing for someone you’re not, explored in several ways, socially, economically and sexually. In the central conflict between Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law) and Tom Ripley (Matt Damon), this theme is examined through fashion; Tom clearly wants to be Dickie and deeply envies Dickie’s style. Ultimately, Tom assumes Dickie’s identity but can never quite ape his presence (or, in this context, his “look”). The film is a primer on breezy, mid-century Italian style but incidentally shows how to build a personal style that can’t quite be replicated. It also examines how personal style can expose a man’s broader personality.
