Southern Charm
Mandy Goldstein masters the art of dressing with heart and heritage
By Mandy Holmes / Photo by Claudia Johnstone
Mandy Goldstein, a Dallas native turned Scottsdale local, brings her signature blend of Southern style and timeless fashion to everything she touches. A devoted wife, mother and longtime professional in staffing services, Goldstein has called Arizona home for over 15 years. “I love my life here in Arizona, but I’m a Southern girl at heart – and I think that comes out in my style and home decor,” she says.
Her personal style is feminine, fresh and full of flair. Think florals, blush tones, vintage finds, and always big sunglasses. Her signature look combines something frilly, something comfortable, and a big round brush blowout, perfectly capturing her polished-yet-playful vibe.
Inspired by tastemakers like Parker Kennedy and Katey Hellman, Goldstein mixes high and low fashion seamlessly, curating pieces with intention and heart. “Some are extremely preppy, some are European, East Coast and urban… I definitely don’t fit just one style,” she says.
From hot pink Manolos to cherished heirloom jewelry passed down from her grandmother, this fashionista’s choices are deeply personal. Watching her daughters – the ultimate mini versions of herself – play dress-up, paint their nails, and explore their own sense of style fills Goldstein with pride.
What is the best outfit compliment you’ve ever received? “You look like you just stepped out of a Nancy Myers movie!” Say no more, day made.
What trend are you most looking forward to for summer? A matching set or monochromatic set. Throw on some sandals and a great pair of sunnies and you’re good to go!
What is the most underrated fashion staple? Big gold hoops! They can get a bad rap but when styled correctly, they’re an effortless addition that can truly elevate (or spice up!) an outfit.
Bold Bags
Sydnie Cadenas elevates every outfit with the right arm candy
By Gabby Leighton / Photo by Beverly Shumway
Sydnie Cadenas is redefining what it means to dress with intention and edge. As the founder of Luv Luxe, a curated luxury handbag resale company, Cadenas’ personal style is an extension of the brand: sophisticated, timeless and unapologetically bold.
Her signature look? A powerful blazer or jacket, elevated by a statement handbag. “A well-tailored black suit will always make more of a statement than a little black dress,” says Cadenas, noting she favors structure and polish over fleeting trends. Her fashion foundation started with staples, like fitted blazers and quality tees – pieces that remain central to her wardrobe today, now paired with elevated textures like fur, silk and leather.
Cadenas draws inspiration from icons like Coco Chanel and modern muses like Morgan Stewart, blending ultra-luxury pieces with affordable finds. “You’d never guess I paired a Louis Vuitton jacket with a $30 jumpsuit from Target,” she says.
As a busy mom of three, Cadenas dresses for both confidence and comfort. She embraces texture over prints and champions the idea that great style is about knowing yourself, not just chasing trends. Her favorite fashion find remains a striking Hermes Evelyn handbag in a rare color.
What’s the best outfit compliment you’ve ever received? I often receive compliments on the timeless style of my outfits, but what really makes me smile is when people notice how I elevate the look with a fun handbag.
What trend are you most looking forward to for spring/summer? Butter yellow is trending this spring! I think it’s fabulous, though it’s not the most flattering for my complexion. Sheer styles are also making a comeback. While they can be tricky and sometimes miss the mark, you can really make a statement with a sheer look when done right.
What is your must-have clothing item? You can’t go wrong with a well-fitted denim jacket, a sharp black blazer and classic tees.