Reese Witherspoon: The SL Photoshoot

Our September cover girl returns home to open her Southern retailer, Draper James, and shares the family ties that inspired it.

Witherspoon's clothing line features pieces inspired by vintage photos of her grandmother.

Grace lace dress; draperjames.com

"My grandmother was so elegant. She didn't have a lot of dresses or anything, but she always looked put together."

Pennington peacoat, Grady sweater, Austin button-down, Tootsie jean, and Assorted Charm bracelet; draperjames.com

An avid thank-you note writer, Witherspoon made sure stationery was part of the Draper James line.

Casey dress, notepad, and Signature throw; draperjames.com

"I used to be really intimidated by dinner parties. Then I realized anybody coming to my house loves me anyway. Now I put less emphasis on perfection and more on joy and happiness."

Hermitage cardigan, Clementine top, and Tootsie jeans; draperjames.com

She designs her line of clothes to take Southern ladies from a casual tailgate to a family dinner.

Nashville top and Printed Knoxville pant, Flora cardigan, and charm bracelets; draperjames.com

"I don't know a weak Southern woman. My mom says if you want something done, then ask a Southern woman. There are a lot of old ideas about the South, but it's a different time. I'm excited about the new South."