Today is such an EXCITING day on Lex What Wear. I’m partnering with Draper James to answer a few questions, style a piece from the current collection, and give insight on the new Draper James location in Lexington, KY. If you didn’t already know, Reese Witherspoon is the mastermind behind the designer clothing store. She started Draper James to honor her Southern roots, and pay homage to her greatest influences, her grandparents.
To make today’s post even more special, I’m coming to you from the downtown streets of Lexington. There’s no better place to talk about home, than right here. Without further ado, let’s get this Q&A and Draper James party started.
You’re a KY girl, born and raised! What did you love most about growing up in Lexington?
Nothing compares to growing up in Kentucky, especially in the Lexington area. I take pride in being from the Bluegrass and I always find myself going back to my roots. Lexington is a special place, and it’s full of wonderful, kind, and loyal people. I think of University of Kentucky fans when I think of Lexington, and loyalty is the biggest part of that tradition. When you grow up in Lexington, or anywhere in Kentucky, you have a set of values that guide you through life, no matter where you go. I grew up small, surrounded by a close-knit group of family and friends. We went to church, we were present in the community, and we were taught to focus on our education and our talents. I wouldn’t trade my upbringing for anything in the world. In fact, every day I lived in New York City (which I will get to in a second), I called my Momma and told her how thankful I was to be born and raised a small-town Kentucky girl.
What do you miss the most?
I definitely miss my support team the most. My family and my best friends still live in Lexington. I’ve learned that Facetime is my best buddy when I get homesick, and my Grandmother’s Rice Krispie treats will get me through any serious bout of longing for home. I also miss home cooking. My grandmother is the queen of the kitchen, and her food is always on my mind. I do also miss the backroads that only locals know. They take you through the most beautiful parts of Kentucky, and when you’re on them, you know you’re home.
You’re in Music City now! What’s the difference between Lexington style and Nashville style? How about vs. NYC style, since I know you lived there for a bit too?!
Nashville style is cool and eclectic. Most days, however, I am still trying to figure out Nashville style. Sometimes I want to be casual, laid back and effortless, and sometimes I want to dress a little more Southern. Compared to Lexington, I feel like Nashville style takes on a minimalist approach. It’s very straightforward, relaxed and chic. I also feel like I can get away with wearing anything I want in Nashville, and not feeling out of place. Lexington style to me is very Southern, preppy, and classic. There is something about Lexington that is timeless. You want to look put together and polished. In New York City, you could walk down the street in an Elmo costume and nobody would even think twice. I love the open concept feel that the city has. You are the creator of your look. The city can’t shape you, only you can decide what and how you present yourself to the world. That’s powerful and totally game-changing for personal style.
Where is the first place you head when you get back to Lexington?
Typically I go straight to my Mom’s house; I confess, I’m a Momma’s girl. However, first on our list if the weather cooperates, is a walk through The Arboretum, the State Botanical Garden. It gives us a minute to catch up, it’s absolutely beautiful, and it’s basically in my Mom’s backyard. I cherish our time at the Arboretum, and it brings back so many memories. So many of my life’s biggest decisions were talked out on the walking paths there.
Favorite Lexington classic/old school restaurant and why?
Winchell’s – it serves up the most classic Kentucky food, provides a casual atmosphere, and this is a true University of Kentucky hotspot. One of my favorites on the menu is a traditional Kentucky dish, the Hot Brown, and anything on their breakfast menu is a winner.
New and trendy restaurant and why? What to order?
Sage Rabbit, of course. Chef John Foster, who is my mother’s neighbor, opened this gem a little over two years ago, featuring local foods with an emphasis on quality. It’s a relaxed environment offering artisanal American fare, such as homemade pasta and roasted pork. If you go, you HAVE to get their chocolate pot de crème, with salted caramel sauce, toasted marshmallow and a house made graham cracker. Talk about divine.
Museum or other cultural institution?
Keeneland – by definition it’s a Thoroughbred race course and Bloodstock sales company located six miles west of Lexington in the heart of Kentucky’s famed Bluegrass Region. To locals it’s the prized possession of Lexington. If you haven’t been, you don’t know what you’re missing. Record-breaking crowds gather every April and October for live horse racing, betting, tailgating, and private events and shopping.
Cafe or bakery?
High on Art & Coffee is one of my favorite local joints for coffee and a sweet treat. The people there are the friendliest and there’s so much to see and do while enjoying your morning cup of Joe. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick breakfast or afternoon snack, and centrally located.
Place to listen to music?
Thursday Night Live is always a good time. Happening every Thursday, starting April 6th until October 12th, Central Bank hosts thousands of Lexingtonians for live music, local food and beverage vendors, The event takes place each week at the Fifth Third Bank Pavilion at Cheapside Park downtown.
Favorite hotel?
Gratz Park Inn! It’s the BEST small, luxury hotel in Lexington’s historic district. It’s Lexington’s only small boutique hotel, within walking distance to downtown. The rooms are authentic and timeless, and represent the true Kentucky spirit. I also love Distilled at Gratz Park, a restaurant within the hotel, serving lunch and dinner. The restaurant specializes in farm-to-table fare, with Chef Mark Wombles.
A must-visit for a first-time visitor to the city?
Aside from Keeneland, I recommend taking a trip to historic Midway, just 12 miles from Lexington off I-64. There you’ll experience quaint shops and top-rated restaurants, and find yourself surrounded by the most famous horse farms.
A spot only a local would know?
Wallace Station. It’s a homey stop along the backroads of Woodford County. They serve up the best sandwiches ever. If you go, ask for the famous Big Brown.
Favorite “Southernism”?
“Bless your heart”
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