They’re smart, they’re savvy and they’re impossibly stylish. Join us in celebrating our first annual Denver’s Best Dressed.
Read the complete feature in the Winter 2022-2023 issue of Cherry Creek Magazine HERE
PHOTOS BY JC BUCK, JOHN CHRISTOPHER STUDIO
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REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL + FATHER + COMMUNITY LEADER
Chat with us about your background. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally? I’m a Luxury Real Estate Advisor. Outside of that I love cars, fashion, mountain biking, skiing, hiking, fitness, and spending time with family. I am also the jerk chicken king!
How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally? I’ve been in Denver for 16 years, but I am originally from London. Colorado feels like home to me. It’s filled with interesting, dynamic people.
Any charitable organizations you’re involved in? I’m a partner of the Porter Billups Academy.
Who was your earliest style influence? My Dad
Describe your personal style? My style is Westend chic with a splash of the streets!
Current style icons? Random people on the street
Where do you like to shop, both locally and online? Locally I frequent Suitsupply, Burberry, and Neiman Marcus. My favorite place to shop is in Miami. They have THE BEST shopping for men.
Favorite Cherry Creek haunts? Forget Me Not
Finish the sentence, “To me, style is…” An expression of your upbringing and who you are today.
Best dressed celebrities past and present?
Past: Christopher Korey
Present: Jerry Lorenzo
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BOUTIQUE OWNER + PHILANTHROPIST + MOTHER
Chat with us about your background. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally? I started my boutique, Mariel, in Larimer Square 40 years ago and moved to Cherry Creek over 10 years ago. I really enjoy helping women embrace different fashions that they may have not considered and making them feel and look their best. I am very social and my husband and I are out and about with friends and family often. We also love to travel.
How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally? I am a Colorado Native. I have been able to watch the city grow tremendously over the years.
Any charitable organizations you’re involved in? Throughout the years I have always felt it is important to give back to the community. Some of the charities I have been involved in are Volunteers of America, Latinas First, Children’s Diabetes Foundation, and Denver Center Alliance.
Who was your earliest style influence? My earliest influences were Versace, Jean Paul Gaultier, Chanel and, of course, Madonna!
Describe your personal style. My personal style is all over the spectrum. I am lucky because I get to dress up every day. Depending on my mood or where I need to go I like chic, edgy, feminine looks.
Current style icons? JLO, Kate Middleton and Taylor Swift. They all have their own distinct styles and know who they are. Whatever they are wearing, they wear it with confidence.
Where do you like to shop, both locally and online? I don’t shop online at all – as a small business owner I just don’t feel great about it when I do. While most of my clothes are admittedly from Mariel, I do often shop while traveling. I love finding unique things that remind me of the places I’ve been and experiences I’ve had.
Favorite Cherry Creek haunts? Cucina Colore, which is across the street from my store, is a longtime favorite.
Finish the sentence. To me, style is…Style is not necessarily about the article of clothing but about how you wear it and also about a woman’s inner beauty. That includes her mind and character.
Best dressed celebrities?
Nicole Kidman
Blake Lively
Cher
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SERGIO DIOR BRYANT
CREATIVE DIRECTOR + CONCIERGE + PEOPLE PERSON
Chat with us about your background. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally? I’m the Resident Services Manager at St. Paul Collection in Cherry Creek, which allows me to engage with some of the most interesting and accomplished people in our community on a daily basis. Prior to that, I developed an extensive background in creative direction, working in both New York and Los Angeles. I have had the honor of working with some of the biggest names in the industry in terms of wardrobe, hair, makeup, and set design. I studied at both University of Maryland and NYU. When I am not working, I enjoy traveling, fine dining, shopping, meeting new people and having new experiences.
How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally? I have been in Denver for six years, but I am originally from Trinidad/Tabago, the dual-island Caribbean nation near Venezuela. My family and I moved to New York City when I was eight-years-old.
Who was your earliest style influence? My grandparents
Describe your personal style? Classic. While many types of fashion styles are about trusting the “basics,” nothing can rival the timeless allure of the classic dressing style. Instead of relying on trends, the classic aesthetic is based on refined pieces such as a simple pair of jeans, blazer, great jewelry and accompanying neutral-toned accessories like a great tote or crossbody bag.
Current style icons?
David Beckham
The late Yves Saint Laurent
Tom Ford
Ralph Lauren
Where do you like to shop, both locally and online? Here in Cherry Creek, I love Neiman Marcus, Zara, and Hugo Boss. I also love Bergdorf Goodman, Saks 5th Avenue, Ralph Lauren, and a host of great vintage and consignment shops in London, New York, and Los Angeles.
Finish the sentence, “To me, style is…” Expression. Style is the ability to distinctively sort through the maze of options, make a selection and do so in a way that is in keeping with how we see ourselves. Style, I believe, is how we define and place a stamp on our personal identity.
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ESTHER LEE LEACH
DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE + FASHION EDITOR + MOTHER
Chat with us about your background. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally? I am the Vice President of Development & Fundraising at Downtown Denver Partnership. My job is all about supporting and continuing to build an economically vibrant and inclusive city. Before this role, I was the Director of Membership Development, Events & Partnerships at Clayton Members Club. I also own a small online magazine, Cherry Creek Fashion. My work in all of these spaces revolves around creating community and a sense of belonging for everyone. My personal time is spent with my six-year-old son and my friends in Cherry Creek where I live, Downtown Denver or RINO. There is so much to do all over this wonderful city, so I am never at a loss for interesting experiences.
How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally? I moved to Denver eight years ago and I love it! This is home now, and I plan to stay for the long run and raise my son here. This is one of the best cities for families and for business. The arts and culture scene is also incredible. I am originally from Saint Lucia in the Caribbean and have lived in a few other cities including London and New York.
Any charitable organizations you’re involved in? I serve on the board of three non-profits including Cherry Arts, Biennial of The Americas and Cherry Creek Chamber. I also support the Denver Art Museum through their Associate Program and was on the committee for the last Rev the Runway, supporting National Jewish Health. Being involved in the Denver community and supporting wonderful organizations doing great work is very important to me.
Who was your earliest style influence? My mom Jacintha. I remember watching her getting ready, doing her make-up and choosing outfits when I was a little girl. She is a beautiful woman with an equally beautiful soul, so I learned a lot from her about personal style.
Describe your personal style? I love a lot of classic pieces but add a rocker chic London vibe to all of my outfits. I call it classic rocker chic! I love good, structured tailoring in beautiful fabrics that stand the test of time.
Current style icons? My number one style icon also happens to be one of my best friends! Koya Nyangi (@letmeshowyoudifferent) embraces her authentic individual style and teaches us all to do the same by bring so much enthusiasm and self-love to dressing up.
Where do you like to shop, both locally and online? I love shopping in person locally. I rarely ever shop online, I usually reserve that for basic pieces that need replacing. I love the experience of walking through stores, talking to stylists and feeling fabrics. My favorite shops are a mix of classic lines and local designers. I love the St. John Boutique in Cherry Creek North, A Line Boutique, Artizia in Cherry Creek Shopping Center, and Rags Consignment for second hand and vintage pieces. I also wear a couple of local designers including C.R.Lee and The Oula Company. Tennyson Street and RINO are also great for shopping. The only online store I frequent, because they are no longer available locally, is AYR.
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YANEEV BENAMI
CUSTOM CLOTHIER + FAMILY MAN + OUTDOORSMAN
Chat with us about your background. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally? Professionally, I am the director of sales for Balani Custom; we’re a high-end men’s custom clothier, headquartered in Chicago and in business since 1961. We produce everything from formal wear to casual looks and have a showroom right here in Cherry Creek North. Personally, I am a family man, an avid outdoorsman, and a lover of a good steak and peaty scotch.
How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally? I am one of those rare Colorado natives – born and raised here.
Any charitable organizations you’re involved in? Our company participates in a number of charitable initiatives nationwide. We like to thoughtfully support local organizations that do great work in the community, such as Denver Children’s Foundation.
Who was your earliest style influence? As far back as I can remember, I was particular about my style, though I don’t know that I’ve ever really had a specific influence per se. I’ve always appreciated classic, put-together looks, and good taste.
Describe your personal style? Whether it’s dressy or casual, I always like to feel put together. I appreciate small details – the shoes, the belt, the tie… For a formal look, I love the feel of a three-piece suit with peak lapels – nothing beats that for a dressy occasion. On a casual day, I’ll pair a comfortable cotton tee with a pair of Paige jeans and Magnani sneakers.
Current style icons?
David Beckham
Daniel Craig
Christiano Ronaldo
Where do you like to shop, both locally and online? I’m fortunate to work for a company that offers both formal and casual wear, so I don’t have to go far for my clothing needs. One of my current favorite staples is Paige denim – soft, stretchy, and super comfortable jeans that are versatile enough to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Favorite Cherry Creek haunts? Hillstone, Toro, Sol and Cherry Creek Grill
Finish the sentence, “To me, style is…”..an expression of oneself, and it’s important to run with it and be your own person.
Best dressed celebrities past and present?
David Beckham
Ryan Gosling
Tom Ford
Daniel Craig
Marlon Brando
James Dean
George Clooney
Sean Connery
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CARRIE BRADLEY & CYNTHIA STEINBRECHER
IDENTICAL TWINS + INTERIOR DESIGNERS + MOTHERS
Chat with us about your backgrounds. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally?
CB: I spearhead commercial interior design for hospitals and medical facilities. Creating spaces that are not only functional but also beautiful and comforting to the patients and families that find themselves there is extremely rewarding. I spend my personal time being a “soccer mom” to two fantastic sons, ages 10 and 13. I also enjoy cycling year-round.
CS: I am a commercial Interior Design Principal at Davis Partnership Architects. I love being in a creative field and leading a studio of 25 designers. Being able to convey a sense of style in my profession is important in the impact that a sense of fashion can convey to clients and potential clients.
How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally?
CB: Cynthia and I were born in Steamboat Springs and raised in Glenwood Springs. Both CSU grads, who spent short but lively stints in San Francisco. Cynthia also spent time in Boston, but Colorado has always been where our hearts thrive.
How has being a twin influenced each of your personal style?
CB: Being a twin is having a built-in best friend, but it also comes with constant comparison. We learned early on that trying to be exactly the same only brought on scrutiny. We have each developed our own style along the way. Cynthia is more adventurous in her styling with spunk and awe. I’m more subdued and timeless. The best thing is that we are constantly raiding each other’s closets. Always having twice the wardrobe has been a game changer. Cynthia and I both joke that once borrowed, never returned.
CS: I think it forced us early on to have our own style. My style has always been a bit more masculine and clean-lined, whereas Carrie’s is always a bit more classically feminine.
Any charitable organizations you’re involved in?
CS: I was blessed eight years ago to have a sweet little girl who we named Lydia; she was born with a very rare genetic disorder that affected her cellular metabolism. It presented first when she was born with pure white hair (she looked like an angel). Because of this rare disease we were “frequent flyers” at Children’s Hospital Colorado. We saw almost every specialist there. The incredible care and attention we were given made my husband Scooter and I want to give back. Over the last seven years we have helped raise over $300,000 for Children’s Hospital. Lydia’s daily fight to survive became too hard this past January and we lost our sweet girl, but we will always be a fundraising team for Children’s Hospital for the love and support we were given while in their care. Her spirit is with us always and is often seen at unexpected times in the form of a butterfly.
CB: The Children’s Hospital of Colorado Foundation will forever be my favorite charitable organization, in honor of my sweet niece, Lydia. This past year, I was nominated as the Woman of the Year by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I raised almost $110K in only ten weeks. I received the Mission Integration Award and was able to designate the funds towards cancer patients seeking financial support. I am also on the board of the Denver Architecture Foundation.
Favorite “twin fashion” memory?
CB: Rocking our beautiful magenta “Lydia” cycling jerseys for the Courage Classic bicycle race every year.
CS: Senior Prom. We dressed the same in a white fitted one shoulder dress with a cutout at the side. Very 90’s glam.
Who was your earliest style influence?
CB: It was a tragic hair influence when I was eight. I brought a magazine clipping of Pat Benatar into the salon, and I rocked a mullet for a year until my hair grew back. A very early lesson in not going with trends.
CS: Seventeen Magazine!
Describe your personal style.
CB: Classic with a little bit of edge. I don’t let trends dictate my style, I let in what works for me. I prefer tailored pieces that can travel well. I have mastered two-week international travel with only a carry-on!
CS: Modern, architectural, clean lined and substantive.
Current style icons?
CB: Emma Stone
CS: Zendaya – her aesthetic is very clean, modern, and non-fussy, it has a level of structure that is both timeless and on trend.
Where do you like to shop, both locally and online?
CB: Locally, I love The Artisan Center, Haven, and Krewe in RiNO Online I head to Zara, Etsy, and Chairish.
CB: Online, I love The REAL REAL. I am a sucker for a good deal on second-hand pieces. Zara for trendy items. Locally I love MAX on Columbine and my favorite for gifts is also The Artisan Center.
Favorite Cherry Creek haunts?
CB: Satchels on 6th is so cozy and inviting! It exudes the perfect neighborhood vibe. Barolo Grill is the best in Denver. Ryan Fletter always delivers an exceptional experience.
CS: Forget Me Not is always fun. I also love the rooftop at The Jacquard and Aviano to keep me ticking through the day.
Finish the sentence. To me, style is…
CB: Knowing yourself and expressing it outwardly through your personal effects.
CS: A daily expression of your personal vibe.
Best dressed celebrities past and present?
CB: Audrey Hepburn (can we please bring back hats and gloves?) and Victoria Beckham
CS: Amal Clooney and Audrey Hepburn
