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.
Serial hospitality entrepreneur puts his best foot forward.
Born and raised in NC, Jonathan Seelbinder only expected to stay in our capital city for a couple of years when he moved here in 1999. But, 22 years later, he says, “here I am.”
Seelbinder cut his teeth in the hospitality business as a way to pay his way through NC State while studying industrial engineering. But, alas, he caught the hospitality bug and, in 2012, opened his first spot (The Architect Bar and Social House on East Hargett Street)—and “tried to never look back,” he says.
From there, Seelbinder bowed such popular hot spots as The Green Light speakeasy, Virgil’s Taqueria, sandwich shop Linus & Pepper’s (L&P) and Little City Brewing. This year, after COVID-19 shuttered L&P, he began working on a new venture, The Merchant, in the Virgil’s building on South Salisbury Street. His fave part? The savvy bar owner particularly enjoys designing and furnishing his properties. “As a guy who lived in a house with a bunch of other dudes and a hand-me-down couch when opening my first business,” he says, “I was quickly inspired by interior design, something that has grown into a passion.” In his free time, Seelbinder says he travels between Colorado and Raleigh whenever possible. And, in his ideal life, he’d fly airplanes and ski every day. Cheers to that.
Hometown: I was born in Spruce Pine, grew up in Wilmington, finished high school in Mebane, then moved to Colorado, then moved to Raleigh—and have been here since 1999.
Your neighborhood: Downtown Raleigh
What you love most about Raleigh: It’s a big town, little city. It’s always been easy to meet people. The food and beverage scene has become as good as any city, and it’s a great home base. You can fly almost anywhere and can get up and down the East Coast no problem.
Currently reading: Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey. It was a gift from my mom for Christmas.
Currently listening to: Podcasts with Grant Cardone, GaryVee and Tim Ferriss. They talk about real estate, entrepreneurship and life stories. They’re inspirational, informative and give me a good perspective on the ups and downs of the entrepreneurial world.
Style mantra: Timeless and classic—with modern accents. I’ve really been into wearing Air Jordan’s lately though. My preference would be to be comfortable, but it depends on the situation. It’s a fine line between stylish and comfortable. I like to toe the line.
Style influences: I don’t really follow a particular designer, but I believe in staying classic and evolving with the times without being too overly trendy.
Favorite clothing labels: Everything from Chuck Taylor and Air Jordan all the way up to Hermès and everything in between.
Local go-to shop: It was Art of Style—always a good eclectic blend of cool styles. It was local, and Kendra always tried to go out of her way to be involved in the process of purchasing clothes.
Last great lunch: Virgil’s tacos. I happen to think they’re the best tacos in the state… yum yum, delicious!
Go-to piece: Dark denim that fits well and is still comfortable
Favorite piece of jewelry: I always enjoy a classic, understated nice watch.
Travel dreaming: I was thinking about the south of France the other day—never been, would like to go. It just looks absolutely beautiful, and I’d love to have a few carefree weeks after the last year or two I’ve had with work.
How you stay fit: Stress… just kidding. I love to ride my mountain bike and snowboard. Diet is super-important; however, that’s always a lifestyle.
Favorite drink: Coffee, coffee, coffee and then coffee, in that order
Style secret: Everything doesn’t have to be expensive. I once managed a night club, and my favorite suit came from Target, and I threw it in the washing machine on a regular basis. But it’s always fun to have a couple of really nice pieces that you can accentuate with things that aren’t totally bougie.
Moment in your life that inspired your style: My father and my (maternal) grandfather—even when I grew up with very little and not a lot of money—they made sure we knew it was always important to look our best, tuck our shirts in, comb our hair and stand up straight.
Photo Credit: Joshua Steadman
Currently Wearing: Jacket: Calvin Klein; scarf: Versace; T-shirt: Buck Mason; pants: Penguin; shoes: Air Jordan; belt and buckle: Hermès; boxer briefs: Diesel; socks: Ralph Lauren
Roxanne Ejlali Lundy spent the last decade working downtown in the small business community, including at Videri Chocolate Factory and for the Downtown Raleigh Alliance. Having always had an appreciation for fashion, Lundy holds a degree from NC State’s College of Textiles in fashion and product development. Lundy spends her free time following various fashion creatives, doing art projects and staying active with her husband, Will, and she enjoys living close to her parents, in-laws and three younger siblings. Alongside Trey Roberts and Josh Lamm, Lundy is one of the co-founders of the nonprofit Raleigh Pride, dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.
Hometown: I am a Raleigh native! I grew up in the neighborhood across from Fred Fletcher Park where all the streets are named after presidents. In high school, my family moved to north Raleigh.
Your neighborhood: Will and I live in the Longview neighborhood east of downtown along with our cat, D.C. (Dairy Cow).
What do you love most about Raleigh: The outdoor trails at the NC Museum of Art, the greenway trails (we like to ride bikes), the Contemporary Art Museum (where my husband and I got married), NC State’s arboretum, Dorothea Dix Park, the murals around town (thanks, Raleigh Murals Project), the Shimmer Wall, the Farmer’s Market and the historic homes.
Currently reading: I follow Slayer Sister’s Book Club and ordered this month’s book, “A Rogue of One’s Own.” I also ordered “Stamped – Racism, Antiracism, and You” and “Accidentally Wes Anderson.”
Currently listening to: It’s the 50th anniversary of the Grateful Dead’s album “American Beauty” so I’ve been listening to that! It was a staple growing up. But typically, I listen to a solid mix of pop and R&B (cue eye roll from my entire family)–Beyonce, Pharrell, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Rhianna, Taylor Swift, Drake. When I need to focus, I listen to recordings of ocean waves.
Style mantra: Clothing doesn’t define you. It is a form of expression. What you wear should make you feel good, give you confidence and inspire a mood. Experiment, have fun and know you (and your style) are always evolving.
Style influencers: Tara Gardiner, one of the owners of Salon Blu, has been doing my hair for 10 years and is incredible. People stop me on the street to ask about my hair. I enjoy following Pierpaolo Piccioli at Valentino, Christopher John Rogers, Rodarte, Prabal Gurung and so many more! I am always mesmerized by Sarah Burton’s collections at Alexander McQueen. I love that both Stella McCartney and Sarah Burton chose to upcycle parts of their recent collections.
Favorite clothing labels: Locally, Raleigh Denim. Otherwise, there isn’t anything unique about the places I shop. I love a good sale! I am drawn to J. Crew, Anthropologie, French Connection and I enjoy discovering brands online I’ve never heard of before. That said, I am making a conscious effort to support sustainable brands. The fashion industry is very wasteful and bad for the environment. My goal is to reduce my impact so I started having my clothes tailored and re-designed at Glenwood South Tailors. I feel like I am gaining a new wardrobe by adjusting pieces I already have!
Flats vs. Heels: There are two things I can’t stand: 1. Being cold and 2. Wearing painful shoes. I’m flats and sneakers all the way. I will choose comfort every time.
Local go-to shop: Raleigh Denim and Edge of Urge. I like popping in to Deco for gifts and admiring Quercus jewelry next door.
Last great lunch: Capital Club 16 is one of my go-to spots. The Golden Garden Sandwich is my favorite.
Go-to piece: My navy blue, leather motorcycle jacket purchased in New York from J.Crew. It was the only size in the store and it fit perfectly. It was meant to be!
Favorite piece of jewelry: I love Peppertrain necklaces and earrings. Kaitlin Ryan makes clay beads by hand, blending colors and creating great shapes. She has incredible style and I love everything she makes!
Travel dreaming: I like to alternate travel-to-explore and travel-to-relax. Before COVID-19, I crammed in some travel to explore. Right now, I’d like to relax on a warm, remote beach somewhere in Hawaii. I’ve never been!
How do you stay fit: I try to maintain a daily stretching routine. There was a brief period this summer where I worked my way into a split but, unfortunately, I wasn’t able to maintain it. I also enjoy kicking the soccer ball. My favorite game involves juggling the soccer ball into the basketball net.
Favorite drink: Every morning I make a pour-over using Black & White Coffee – The Natural. I also drink a green smoothie daily. If I don’t make one at home, I pick one up at Raleigh Raw.
Style secret: My personal style involves a classic look with a pop of something – color, texture or contrast. A few tips I try to keep in mind: • Less is more • Choose one: a strong eyeliner or a bold lip • Look for patterns or stripes that line up at the seams • When in doubt, wear black • Rock it!
Moment in your life that inspired your style: When I was younger, I coveted bold outfits I saw on the street, in magazines and online. I love clothing that stands out but, at the time, didn’t have the confidence to rock it. Finally, it hit me – why not?! Life’s too short. Wear what you want!
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.
The founder of interior design company Design by Tula, Tula Summerford has lived in Raleigh for a decade. A graduate of The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, Summerford has a gift for marshaling color, pattern and texture to create spectacular spaces. Summerford is married to Allen and is the mother to four children, Katina, Nicholas, John and Kara. She’s a member of The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Raleigh, as well as a lifelong member of the Girl Scouts of America, and her favorite local charity is the Green Chair Project.
Tula Summerford; Photo by Joshua Steadman
Hometown: I grew up in Jamaica, New York, about 20 minutes from the city.
Your neighborhood: Country Club Hills
What do you love most about Raleigh: I lived in New York for 20 years, and then in the small, quaint North Carolina town of Edenton. Raleigh offers the perfect balance of both.
Currently reading: “The Lost Girls of Paris” by Pam Jenoff
Currently listening to: Girl Boss with Sophia Amoruso. My daughter Kara turned me on to this.
Style mantra: My style is a celebration of my designs in all forms! Style should always evoke emotion and create conversation.
Style influencers: I’ve always admired Iris Apfel for her eclectic style. Her originality and mix of couture with flea market finds are perfection.
Favorite clothing labels: Gucci, Proenza Shouler, Dries Von Noten
Flats vs. Heels: Heels … always heels!
Local go-to shop: Vermillion and Gena Chandler
Last great lunch: Bida Manda
Go-to piece: My black Iro jeans
Favorite piece of jewelry: My charm bracelet filled with memories of my childhood
Travel dreaming: Bali
Favorite drink: CHAMPAGNE! My two faves are Perrier-Jouet Belle and Krug
Style secret: I’m always on the move … comfortable and chic is my usual vibe. I wear lots of black but love to add a pop of color.
Moment in your life that inspired your style: My first boss told me it was better to have a few fab, high-quality pieces in your wardrobe vs. a closet full of average pieces.
