By Sarah Parvaresh, Operations and Communications Intern
One of the first things people think of when they hear Austin, Texas is “Keep Austin Weird,” but they might not know how the motto originated. “Keep Austin Weird” was meant to promote and support local businesses of Austin and its unique indie lifestyle. In 2008, Jessica Conaway came to Austin and 6 years later, after learning the ropes of the boutique industry, has made her contribution to the Keep Austin Weird motto by starting her own boutique–DYLAN WYLDE.
Dylan, meaning born of the sea, and Wylde, meaning untamed and free, is a reflection of Conaway’s passion for the untamable ocean and anything uniquely wild. Originally from Virginia Beach, Conaway says she really misses the ocean since living in Austin, but has found a way to flawlessly mash an ocean culture with a more desert environment. “I visited Marfa a while ago and realized that the desert was basically the ocean flipped upside down, and it was just
as beautiful and wild.” In her boutique, the ceramic water pots and wave-patterned blankets flow effortlessly with the sandy colored walls to mix with the stone necklaces and large chunks of sandstone strewn about as display pieces.
The customer service is just as unique as the DYLAN WYLDE culture. Conaway greets everyone at the door and rather than ask what she can help you find, wants to get to know each customer and their unique style and help find something perfect just for you. Jessica Conaway started DYLAN WYLDE with the belief that art comes from everyday objects – whether it’s a new pair of high waisted jeans or hand crafted candles – and encourages everyone to surround themselves with whatever art makes them happy.
If you’re looking for a high-end boutique experience without the price tag and want to truly Keep Austin Weird, shop Dylan Wylde. Store hours are Monday thru Saturday 11:00am-6:00pm, and 12:00pm-5:00pm on Sunday. You can also check out the DYLAN WYLDE style on Tumblr, Facebook, or Instagram. Skip online shopping and get the ultimate beach culture-inspired boutique experience at DYLAN WYLDE.
