Beyond the Blazer

Joel M. Kalvin’s wardrobe transitions seamlessly from professional sophistication to effortlessly cool

By Mandy Holmes / Photo by Beverly Shumway

For Joel M. Kalvin, personal style is less about chasing trends and more about cultivating a wardrobe that feels authentic. As the director of service at The Wrigley Mansion, he understands that presentation is an extension of professionalism but away from work, his style embraces a more relaxed, fashion-forward aesthetic.

During the workweek, Kalvin is impeccably dressed in tailored Banana Republic sport coats, crisp Calvin Klein button-downs, Gingtto chinos, and polished Cole Haan shoes. Off the clock, however, his wardrobe shifts effortlessly to oversized silhouettes, coordinating sneakers and hats, and distinctive jewelry collected from his travels through Africa and South America.

“Working in fine dining, it’s given me a formal direction of how to dress and present myself,” he says.

Though Kalvin favors Banana Republic for its exceptional quality and versatility, some of his most treasured pieces come from unexpected places. He enjoys discovering lightweight vintage shirts at Buffalo Exchange and Goodwill in North Scottsdale, noting the best wardrobes combine investment pieces with one-of-a-kind finds.

This season, Kalvin is drawn to anything linen and loud, embracing bold textures and breathable fabrics that suit Arizona’s warm climate while maintaining a sophisticated point of view.

What is the most underrated fashion staple? Thrifting and estate sales.

Are there any trends you’re looking forward to for fall? Being able to wear layers again. In the summer, Phoenicians are truly limited to what they can wear unless they head up north. I miss being able to layer stylish overshirts.

What are your must-have daily accessories? My wine key, ChapStick, tiny lint roller (My fiancé and I have two dogs and a cat), and a small backpack.

Styled with Story

Thoughtful details, vintage pieces and a global perspective define Raegan Ford’s fashion perspective

By Mandy Holmes / Photo by Beverly Shumway

Raegan Ford believes great style should tell a story. As the founder of Raegan Ford Design, an interior design firm specializing in Greek housing projects on college campuses, Ford has built a career around creating timeless spaces that feel personal, layered and welcoming. That same philosophy carries into her wardrobe.

Having spent much of her childhood living internationally, Ford credits her travels and exposure to different cultures with shaping her eye for style and design. Her signature look is rooted in classic silhouettes with carefully chosen details that make each outfit unique. “Timeless pieces create the foundation... then the personality comes through in the details,” Ford says.

Whether she opts for a pop of color, vintage jewelry, or an unexpected accessory, Ford says those special finishing touches are what make a look memorable. For her, it’s all about curating a collection of meaningful pieces. “My most prized pieces are the ones with a story,” she says.

Among her favorite treasures is a vintage Chanel handbag discovered while traveling in Vienna. Once owned by an Italian horsewoman who decorated it with meaningful pins, the bag perfectly reflects Ford’s appreciation for pieces with history.

What are your favorite brands? I am drawn to brands like Me+Em, Max Mara, and Vince because they offer strong silhouettes, quality fabrics and effortlessly polished pieces.

What’s your go-to summer outfit? I always love a great white T-shirt or a crisp white blouse. If the quality and fit are right, you can wear it with anything, and it always feels easy, classic, and pulled together.

How does your career influence your style? I have always been inspired by different cultures, architecture, and design, and now my work keeps me surrounded by beautiful fabrics, materials, and ideas every day. It has made me appreciate the mix — classic with unexpected, refined with collected, timeless with something a little more current.