When visiting Nashville, it’s not unusual to run into a recognizable face at Target or Trader Joe's, but when it comes to where the biggest names get ‘personal,’ there’s a select list.
The author, pictured middle, along with Kimberly Schlapman (left) and Karen Fairchild (right) — Photo courtesy of Stacie Standifer
Style
When it comes to keeping up appearances, modern country music personalities are beyond chic compared to previous generations. While custom-designed suits via the original Manuel store are still way cool with a retro vibe, many traditions have been broken to pave the way for a more stylish set.
Almost unanimously, the most stylish women on sold-out tours agree that key places for clothing and accessories are H. Audrey in Green Hills or Haven in Downtown Franklin. Music industry royalty and rising recording artist Holly Williams owns and buys for her H. Audrey boutique. Here, you might see Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild or Sheryl Crow browsing through the latest designs from Rag & Bone.
Filming a GAC Special with Karen Fairchild of Little Big Town in H. Audrey — Photo courtesy of Stacie Standifer
Crow also credits Haven as a favorite (for home accessories as well). This ‘Sanctuary of Style’ is the creation of stylist Claudia Fowler. She’s selected ensembles for acts such as Martina McBride (who still shops in the approachable store) among other notables for years (Claudia’s daughter, Cassie, of Womanista.com just happens to be married to Charles Kelley of Lady Antebellum).
Jamie is where the city’s elite buy designer frocks and bags (think Prada, Lanvin, Celine). Faith Hill is a long-time customer. Kelly Pickler has been photographed several times recently wearing styles and accessories from the Belle Meade store. Finally, almost anyone with celebrity cred who comes into town stops into Gwyneth Paltrow’s top spot for custom jeans: Imogene and Willie.
A local stylist with fierce influence is Trish Townsend. Currently, clients include Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood and select others. She shops all over the country, but finds great deals in the heart of Music City.
Parlour 3's inviting interior — Photo courtesy of Stacie Standifer
Underwood not only trusts Townsend with her wardrobe but is totally devoted to Melissa Schleicher for appearance hair/makeup. Schleicher owns the popular Brentwood salon/spa/cosmetic store, Parlour 3. She’s just launched as the only beauty bus in the US (former tour bus decked out with designer cosmetics, equipment and chandeliers) used for celebrations and video shoots.
Stop into the store and get a blowout, color or spray tan from the same stylist that creates red carpet looks for Lauren Alaina and Tiffany Fallon (along with her husband, Joe Don Rooney and other members of Rascal Flatts).
Browse signature makeup lines on the must-have lists of famous faces. As a splurge, rent the bus for your wedding party or girl’s night out–it’s such a fun option.
Mary Alice of Private Edition — Photo courtesy of Stacie Standifer
Specialty cosmetic retail locales thrive throughout the area, but almost everyone picks up essentials at Private Edition. It’s the low-key, local source for luxury skin, hair and nail products. It’s been a staple for over 25 years, and one stop that anyone interested in getting ‘Nashville Glam’ should visit.
Fitness
Fitness is another major focus. Staying in shape for cover shoots and concert tours results in a wealth of options for exercise junkies visiting the city. While Luke Bryan chooses the downtown YMCA, others seek special direction.
Nicole Kidman raves about Sanctuary for Yoga in Green Hills. Miranda Lambert looks better than ever due to a personalized program from Bill Crutchfield. He runs Crutch Camp–an intense series of activities for serious toning and calorie burning. It’s open to new clients, with the only limitation being the number of people signed up.
Two-time veteran (and fan favorite) of The Bachelor, Kacie Boguskie teaches an intimate spin class at Takes 2 Fitness a couple of times a week. Newly engaged (to a music publisher), this certified trainer/television personality started a wildly popular Bridal Boot Camp that’s available to everyone.
Juice Bar in Brentwood — Photo courtesy of Juice Bar Nashville
After workouts, fit-minded performers head to Juice Nashville for a cold-pressed concoction. This little store in the Gulch boasts as much star power as any place in the city. The same applies to Brentwood’s Juice Bar, where Connie Britton and Hayden Panettiere drop in to pick up fresh blends.
Hair
Big star, big hair? Maybe not as much as in country music’s past but show-stopping hair is still a big deal in this town. Salons catering to celebrities, but open to all are Trumps and Elan in Green Hills, Trim in 12 South and Studio Gaven in Franklin among many others.
Darryl Allen Salon dryer 'bench' — Photo courtesy of Stacie Standifer
Last year, Darryl Allen opened his namesake salon near downtown. He styled hair for NYC runway shows and managed Victoria Beckham’sperfect coif before moving to Tennessee. Now, he masters female styles and tames unruly manes of male stars like Billy Currington.
