Ten Best Dressed – Cara French
Cara is a first-time honoree. She is married to Jim French, and they have two children. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a liberal arts degree. Cara was a member of the Cattle Baron’s Ball committee for 14 years before chairing the ball in 2016. She chaired the Equest Luncheon and is president-elect for the Women’s Auxiliary. She is a recipient of the Pi Beta Phi Community Service Award, and she is a former Flower Show chairman and president of the Junior Group of the Dallas Garden Club. In addition to her family, Cara is passionate about her two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Maggie and Purdy.
Q: What cosmetic is always in your purse?
A: Smith & Cult No.2 lip color and gloss. It’s dreamy!
Q: Tell us about your favorite local designer:
A: Jan Barboglio has been my favorite local designer since I was a young girl. I remember that my mom had this Jan Barboglio long white cotton dress with ruffles, puffy sleeves, and wide waist tie. I can still picture my mom in this dress. Now many years later I still love the Mexican inspiration and design Jan Barboglio puts into her home collection. If she would remake that dress, it would be a must have for me.
Q: What’s been the most valuable learning experience as part of Crystal Charity Ball?
A: Commitment to helping others. I’m in awe of the critical needs presented each year from many deserving and worthwhile children’s charities. Our selection process is difficult as there are many charities with significant needs in our community. The commitment to help children in Dallas is important to me.
Q: Who is your style inspiration and how do you embody them?
A: My mom, Prissy Gravely. I have watched my mom create and show her individual style over the years and present herself well. And like the Jan Barboglio white dress, there have been many pieces I loved seeing my mom wear. I try to have my own individual style like my mom.
Q: What is your favorite Park Cities or Preston Hollow eatery to get dressed up for lunch with girlfriends?
A: I love celebrating birthdays at Le Bilboquet! The dessert comes out on fire!
Q: Other than the beneficiaries of Crystal Charity Ball, what charity/cause pulls at your heartstring, and why?
A: Heroes for Children and Team Michael. I went to summer camp with Larissa Linton, and I’m friends with Alison Malone. Both of these dear friends founded an organization to help other families that lost a child to cancer. The thought is just devastating.
Q: What is your fashion motto?
A: Classics are always in. You can’t go wrong with a classic look.
Q: Tell us about your favorite Park Cities or Preston Hollow place to get pampered:
A: Inwood Nailery. I love the mani/pedi’s from Inwood Nailery with a neck massage. I keep going back for more!
Q: Tell us about your favorite piece of clothing in your closet:
A: My Oscar de la Renta navy wool gaberdine asymmetrical hem dress. I feel like this classic dress will be my favorite for a long time.
