Houston is being blessed with the presence of a new influencer, Alix Earle. The TikTok star announced that her boyfriend, wide receiver and punt returner Braxton Berrios, signed a one-year contract with the Houston Texans. If you’re wondering “Who’s Alix?” — just ask her 4 million Instagram followers or 7.3 million TikTok fans who became enthralled with her “get ready with me” videos and luxurious lifestyle. Earle's arrival might just fill the void that Kate Upton left when she departed Houston with Justin Verlander. Beautiful, blonde, famous — you see the parallels.
In an effort to properly welcome Alix to our beloved Houston (and with apologies to our friends at the Houston Chronicle), we’ve created our own “best day ever" for Alix Earle. This fantasy day envisions no traffic and the Uber gods smiling down upon you for sleek black SUVs to appear immediately when ordered (we don't recommend driving with this many stops for drinks).
8 am: Early morning workout
Kick the day off at The Preserve. We’ve noticed that you like to lift weights, and this nature-inspired gym provides a relaxing atmosphere to get those gains. If you need to recover from last night’s festivities, there's even a steam room to step into.
9 am: Send the assistant for breakfast while you shop
Select from a menu ranging from handmade pan dulce to standards such as chilaquiles and tostadas at Ema. This hotspot typically has a wait, so why not explore the Houston Farmers Market while your assistant waits in line? If you’re someone who loves to name-drop that you’ve been to a Michelin-recommended restaurant (who doesn’t), then add this Bib Gourmand bistro to the list.
10 am: Show your skin some love
For a skin refresh, head to SkinLab by Dr. Roth Plastic Surgery for peels, facials, and fillers to stay sideline glam-ready. If you require even more TLC, feel free to cancel everything else on this list, and toss your phone into the Gulf (or at least out of reach). Book a day at the Spa World in Katy, where you’ll find multiple specialty saunas and baths, body treatments, and massages. Just look at how much fun this is:
11:30 am: Oysters or afternoon tea at Marigold’s
Settle into one of The Marigold Club’s velvet green booths for brunch. The lush, Mayfair London-inspired décor sets the stage for a selfie spree. Order a croque madame or fresh oysters alongside the restaurant’s extensive martini and mimosa offerings. Feeling extra posh? Opt for afternoon tea, complete with a tower of finger sandwiches and pastries — no pinkie left unraised.
2 pm: Shopping at River Oaks District
Stroll through River Oaks District for swoon-worthy designer brands. If Braxton joins you for this epic day, drop into Cartier to try on gorgeous jewels he can gift you with funds from his $2 million Texans deal. Or, find your perfect fit with a handmade hat from Teressa Foglia. RodeoHouston may be wrapping up this weekend, but you'll want a hat for next year.
4 pm: Make a splash
It's not quite the same as South Beach, but we do have stylish places to beat the heat (without having to head to the Gulf). Take a dip at El Segundo Swim Club or the brand-new Montrose Country Club. Best of all, both locales have full bars and private cabanas to rent so no one can sneak snaps of your well-known self soaking up the vitamin D.
6 pm: Pre-dinner drinks at Bandista
As night approaches, start things off at Bandista, the hidden speakeasy inside the Four Seasons. They make elaborate, photo-worthy cocktails from premium liquors. Try Atonement, their twist on an Old Fashioned, or Relic, a clarified spin on the El Diablo. It’s giving top-shelf, just like your social feeds.
8 pm: Dinner at Toca Madera
There are endless dining options in Houston, but we think someone who's been living in Miami will feel right at home at Toca Madera, a sultry Mexican steakhouse with indoor trees, gold accents, and rich wood tones. Pair entrees such as Japanese wagyu, chicken al pastor, or seared salmon with hibiscus lime butter, with one of Toca Madera’s multiple margaritas.
10 pm: Toast to a new city at Melrose
Newly opened but already known for its chic aesthetic and flavorful drinks, Melrose’s vibes are a great place to continue the night. Continue the tequila trend with Mary’s Sister, a spicy, smoky blend of mezcal, tequila, red bell pepper, beet, and chili. Since this entire night is fantasy, let’s pretend you are hungry enough to sample the menu that Tatemó chef Emmanuel Chavez developed for the cocktail lounge. Chavez and Tatemó have both been recognized by Michelin and James Beard, but that’s a whole other “best day” article.
12 am: Hit the dance floor at Fabian’s Latin Flavors
You’ve worked out, eaten, drank, swam, and drank some more. Why not end the day with a bit of Latin dancing at Fabian’s? DJs spin tracks of the latest Latin hits every weekend, and while there’s always a line and a cover, we’re pretty sure your dazzling smile will handle all that nonsense.
And there you have it — your ultimate Houston fantasy. We’ll be refreshing our feeds for that “Get ready with me in H-Town” video, Alix. In the meantime, welcome to the city!
Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images, Graphic by Brianna Griff
CultureMap imagines how influencer Alix Earle would spend her best day in Houston.
