We love a list, and a (Secret) Local List is even better. Today, DFW Style Daily’s newest series continues with an artistic take on top Dallas spots for dining, sight seeing, and bargain hunting.  

  Raised in Bangladesh, Shayema Rahim’s parents nurtured her raw talent as a singer and painter, encouraging her to attend Zia’s Art Institute in Dhaka. There, she learned to channel her country’s rich culture through her creativity. Rahim later found a new forte stateside, putting down her brushes to develop her business acumen with an Ivy League education. It was only after starting a family of her own that this multi-talented mom realized corporate success couldn’t eclipse her passion for art.  

  Now based in Dallas and inspired by her son, Arbaaz, Rahim has returned to the canvas. Her work has drawn the attention of the Gallery at Midtown, and she’s set to debut her latest exhibition, Passionate Colors from Within, on March 15. Today, Rahim reveals a list of local favorites that influence her studio life and style.  

  1. Foodie Favorite: Though the artist confessed an affinity for entertaining and experimenting in her own kitchen, she admits she “can’t get enough” of Café Izmir’s hummus and baba ghanoush.  

  2. Shopping Spot: “I prefer classic pieces with a twist,” Rahim explained of her style. “And like my art, my wardrobe is filled with color, from hot pinks to rich purples.” Plano's Shops at Willow Bend is her favorite destination for colorful clothing.  

  3. Creative Connection: Citing antique shops like Heirlooms Antiques and Patina Green in the northern suburb of McKinney as her go-to stops for one-of-a-kind décor, Rahim elaborated, “I trend toward eclectic pieces - nothing too traditional!”  

  4. Best Buys: When it comes to bargain hunting, this self-declared “Maxxinista” scores style steals from T.J. Maxx in The Village at Allen. She recently picked up a Kate Spade bag for under $100!  

  5. I Heart Dallas: “I always take friends and family to Williams Square to see the Mustangs,” Rahim concluded, favoring a spot with true local flair to represent her adopted hometown.     Shayema Rahim headshot, credit Tommy Labuda Photography.