Country Star Kaylee Rutland Hearts These Big D Hangouts

by Abby Gregory on Aug 18, 2014 in (secret) local list

 

We love a list, and a (Secret) Local List is even better. Today, DFW Style Daily’s exclusive series continues with shopping, dining, and entertainment picks from one of country music’s top rising stars.

 

 

Overflowing with recommendations for everything from the best tacos in town to dorm room décor, Kaylee Rutland is obviously unaffected by a summer spent in the spotlight as one of the music industry’s rising stars. Recently named one of Billboard’s Top 10 Country Artists to Watch in 2014, the 18-year-old is still settling into her newfound fame following the July release of her EP, Good Day to Get Gone.

Kaylee, who plays both keyboard and guitar, describes her latest project as a journey in “truly experiencing life, letting go, and doing what you love.” She’s had the chance to do just that with a string of impressive live performances in Big D and beyond. Though she’s now based in Nashville, the native Texan was eager to fill us in on the destinations and hidden gems she loves, right in our own back yard.

 

 

Foodie Favorite: Recently performing at the hot Uptown haunt for the release of her new album, Kaylee raves, “I’m a huge fan of The Rustic, especially their brisket tacos!”

 

 

Go-To Boutique: “I’ve totally fallen for Pinto Ranch, from the clothes, to the jewelry, to the boots,” the stylish songbird reveals, proving that she’s the quintessential Texas girl on stage and off.

 

 

Artistic Addiction: After discovering Deep Ellum’s array of cool venues after hitting the Curtain Club this summer, the artist recalls, “I reveled in exploring amazing vintage shops like Lula B’s, as well as all of the art galleries.”

 

 

Best Buys: “I’m all about the Shops at Park Lane – Home Goods, Nordstrom Rack, you name it,” Kaylee says of her favorite destination for gently priced finds. “I always score awesome deals on everything from apparel to dorm room décor.”

 

 

I Heart Dallas: Lastly, Kaylee heads to the western side of the Metroplex when she’s looking for a uniquely local experience. She explains, “Historic Downtown Grapevine is one of my favorite places. I adore the little shops and restaurants on Main Street, and the Palace Theater holds a special place in my heart.”

 

Headshots courtesy of Kaylee Rutland. Additional images via individual restaurants and retailers.