Linda Rodin is a veteran stylist, editor, and entrepreneur who spent decades working across New York’s fashion industry before launching a cult beauty brand in her 50s. Known for her distinctive and uncompromising personal style, Linda has become a cultural reference point for creativity and reinvention.

“I never really knew what I wanted to do. I thought maybe I’d try photography. I was working for a photographer when he suggested I look through magazines and figure out what I liked in fashion photography.

Every image I loved was by Gösta Peterson. So, I looked him up in the phone book… this was the mid-70s. In those days, you could simply look someone up in the phone book! So, I found his address on the Upper East Side and turned up one Friday evening carrying a little black portfolio. I can still remember exactly what I was wearing, this incredible knitted coat I wish I still had…

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He wasn’t there at first. I sat on the stoop waiting and hoping he would snow up. I was ready to leave, when he came around the corner, he saw my portfolio in my hand and asked me if I was a model waiting for him.

I told him I wanted to be a photographer. That was it. I started working for him the following week.

Working with him was everything. He had no interest in doing things the conventional way. He didn’t like typical models, didn’t like being told what to do, and often refused jobs if they didn’t feel right. He would walk down the street and cast people himself. From him, I learned instinct, independence, and how to trust your eye.

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One of the shoots I remember most was when he photographed Twiggy for one of her first American shoots. His wife Patricia Peterson, who was the Editor of the New York Times, styled it, and apparently all they had to work with was a black hat and a black coat. The photograph became iconic. It taught me that sometimes the best work comes from limitation, not excess.

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He also introduced me to an entirely different creative world. He was obsessed with jazz and spent most nights photographing musicians in clubs around New York. Every morning I’d be waiting in the studio with coffee and pastries while he handed me rolls of black-and-white film to process in the darkroom. I learned everything there, not just technically, but aesthetically. I can never thank him enough for my jazz education.

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I never really knew what I wanted to do. I thought I might become a photographer, but I wasn’t very good at taking pictures. My sister was the one who said, “You don’t take very special pictures, but you get really nice clothes for your subjects. Maybe there’s a job in that.” At the time, I didn’t realize that the job of a “stylist” existed.

At one point, I took a job at Harper’s Bazaar, and I hated it. The work felt wrong to me, over styled, inauthentic. I remember being asked to do a shoot with pearls and white leather that I thought was a terrible idea. Around that time, I also styled a young Madonna before she became famous, and another shoot featured an early Linda Evangelista on her first job in Mexico, but I still couldn’t connect with the direction the magazine wanted to take; and they didn’t like some of their idea when they finally saw them executed either. I couldn’t defend something I didn’t believe in. That decision shaped everything. I realized, if something isn’t right, don’t do it, even if you need the money.

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I’ve never really thought of my career as reinvention. It’s always been the same instinct, just different projects. I don’t like sitting still. I always need something creative to work on. I’ve funded everything myself because I always wanted to have creative freedom.

Another hugely formative time in my life was when I lived in Italy in my early twenties. I met the writer Frederick Tuten completely by chance in a restaurant, and through him I suddenly found myself surrounded by artists and intellectuals like Susan Sontag, Roy Lichtenstein, and Claus Oldenberg. I was far too young to understand who most of them were at the time.

I wasn’t an intellectual in that world’s sense of the word, but Frederick always defended me. He used to say that I trusted my instincts visually, that I could walk into a museum and immediately gravitate toward the best painting in the room. That alone gave me enormous confidence.

My biggest inspiration, without realizing it at the time, was my mother. She was endlessly creative, always making something, redesigning things, inventing ideas just for the sake of it. She once wallpapered the kitchen black with enormous blue flowers pre-warhol. Another time, she and a friend made sculptural hats out of woven placemats and took them to Bergdorf Goodman, only to later discover versions of them in the window, saying “designed by Halston.” There was no grand plan to any of it, just energy and imagination. That stayed with me.”

In 1979, Linda opened the first clothing store in SoHo, on West Broadway between Spring and Broome Streets. She called it LINDA HOPP, the nickname given to her by her mentor, Gösta Peterson, who she had worked with earlier. “The shop was an instant hit,” she recalls. “My brother Robert Rodin, who was an architect, designed it in the Bauhaus style, something completely unlike anything that would later arrive in SoHo, LINDA HOPP was the only clothing store at the time. Alongside her own designs, Linda stocked pieces by designers including Calvin Klein, Todd Oldham and Norma Kamali. One day, Dawn Mello, then Fashion Director of Bergdorf Goodman, visited the store and invited Linda to open a boutique within Bergdorf’s itself. The space became known as THE HOPP SHOP, complete with windows on Fifth Avenue and an intimate boutique on the third floor.

After LINDA HOPP, Linda went on to work as a fashion stylist for more than three decades, but even that wasn’t planned.

“Nothing was ever planned. I just followed what felt right.” Later, she returned to her roots with a curated denim collection under the Linda Hopp name. “I’ve been wearing Levi’s since I was five,” she says. “I’ve always loved anything and everything denim.”

“The most defining project for me was creating my beauty line, Rodin Olio Lusso. It was the first time I made something tangible completely on my own, the formula, the packaging, everything. It finally felt like something that was entirely mine.

Recently I’ve finished a book comprised solely of images from my life. It’s more like a collection of moments, objects and memories. Nothing was sourced or staged, it’s an insight into the world I’ve collected around me since the age of 5 - It’s a collection of my father’s images and home movies, my mother’s antiques, and my sister’s beautiful images from her work as a photographer.

At this point, I still think of myself the same way: a girl in need of a project.”

ROMY ENJOYING THE SUITE AT CHELSEA HOTEL, 2024

THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

Going to Mexico to visit my grand-niece, who just turned 15 months

A beautiful new strand of turquoise beads at the flea market

Avocado toast at my local café in Chelsea

And sitting outside on a not-too-hot sunny day, with my constant companion, my silver poodle, Romy.

My morning coffee

Linda’s book ‘Almost An Autobiography’ is available here

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Shonagh Marshall has built a creative career as a Curator and Writer, working with institutions including Somerset House and The Victoria & Albert Museum in London as well as writing for AnOther, Vogue, 10 Magazine, System Magazine and The Face. Her work explores fashion and contemporary culture.

Shonagh trained as a Gestalt Therapist to deepen the work she was already doing: helping people navigate identity, creativity and the pressures of working in an industry where so much self-worth can become tied to what we do.

In this conversation, we talk about building a career in fashion, why creative industries need better support, the psychological cost of making work your identity, and what happens when your values evolve before your career does. We also discuss social media, perfectionism, financial security, and why learning to measure success on your own terms might be one of the hardest parts of building a creative life.

What did you ‘want to be’ growing up?

I felt really passionate about writing for Vogue when I was a teenager. At around 15, as I struggled with Shakespeare or Coleridge or something, I thought all I want to do is write about fashion – I loved it so much.

How did you end up in fashion curation, was it planned, or did you fall into it?

I fell into it. I studied BA Fashion History and Theory with Rebecca Arnold at Central Saint Martins in the mid-2000s. There were very few jobs I could go into, you could become a fashion journalist, Alex Fury was in my class for example, or curation was another route. We did an exhibition at Kensington Palace for our final project and I loved the mix of practice and theory, there was the creative idea and rigorous research but you also had to make something happen in the real world. That mix appealed to me.

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What was your first job and what did it teach you about the industry?

I archived Alexander McQueen’s collection for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s exhibition Savage Beauty. It taught me a LOT about McQueen, which is knowledge I then used in other projects later, like when I archived the Isabella Blow Collection and co-curated Isabella Blow: Fashion Galore! It also taught me how to archive for a brand, the process and what was involved and that led to my first career manifestation – the archive hustle. I went on to archive Christian Louboutin and as I mentioned, Issie Blow’s collection.

How did your career as a curator unfold, from Somerset House and the V&A in London, to Brooklyn, New York?

Alongside the archiving I did a few small scale branded exhibitions in 2010 and 2011 and then in 2012 I went to work as assistant curator at Somerset House. That really is where my curatorial career began. In 2013 I got promoted and was asked to co-curate the Isabella Blow exhibition. Then I did Utopian Voice, Here and Now and Hair by Sam McKnight and lots of other projects when I was curator there. This section of my career was quite organic, one thing led to another. The V&A thing… the story behind that is in 2016 the V&A engaged me as an outside curator to do an exhibition about Russian Style. Unfortunately it didn’t happen due to a leadership change at the museum. The funny thing about being a curator is that there are so many exhibitions you work on, which are good ideas and have lots of excitement and potential around them, that don’t happen. It is a bit like movies, the stars have to align to get them made. I moved to New York in 2018 and then back to England, to Norwich, in May 2026. My time in New York was defined by transition, I did lots of teaching which I really enjoyed, writing, some exhibitions, and lots of curatorial consultancy, which is mostly behind the scenes. And I trained as a gestalt therapist, so that was a new string to my bow, a new career era begins.

What were the unexpected turning points?

The unexpected turning points were more personal than professional. I started to make conscious decisions about my career and new things were driving me, when I was younger I was very ambitious curatorially and as I got older that was changing. My values were evolving and the type of projects I wanted to work on and with who were changing. A big part of this transition was really thinking about value and worth, and my personal measure of success.

You spent fifteen years building one of the most distinctive curatorial careers in fashion; Isabella Blow, Sam McKnight, and then you retrained as a Gestalt therapist. What happened?

A few things happened, I left Somerset House and without an institutional home curatorial projects aren’t regular enough to be relied upon financially. I also had my own personal therapy that really changed my life. In the end training as a therapist was a pragmatic decision. I really wanted to work in a field where I was respected and paid for my training and skills. I like the therapeutic frame because there are specific boundaries in place, everyone knows where they stand from the beginning. I often felt like in the arts and fashion you are required to be the very best and know everything, being a therapist you make mistakes, you build relationships, you are sometimes flawed and you have the chance to go back and repair next week with your client. That is transformative to me, beware of wanting to be the “perfect” therapist. I was also looking to retrain in a career I could do into my old age – therapists are paid more as they age, I am not sure if that is always the case in fashion or in the arts.

Was there a specific moment when you knew something needed to change, or was it a gradual realisation?

It was gradual. It was a process to figure out what change would look like. I was looking for a change from 2019. I decided to train as a therapist in early 2021, I began my training in October 2022 and graduated in May 2026.

What did it feel like to step aside from your previous career

I actually don’t think about it like that. I love being a curator, so I will definitely do curatorial and writing projects as and when they come along, alongside being a therapist. At the moment I am writing a book that will be published by Thames and Hudson in 2028. I am also hoping I will attract clients from the fashion and art world. I see it more of merging new skills and facets rather than one or the other. Also being a therapist is a great skill to have when working on a big curatorial project where tempers and emotions run high. I have been grateful for my training in some cases over the last few years!

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What does working hard mean to you, and has that definition changed since you started therapy training?

I like to focus on work for a set amount of time and then leave it and ideally not think about it after that (not always possible!!!). I enjoy working hard within that structure, to focus quite intensely and then do something else. I rarely work late and I don’t start too early, unless it is absolutely necessary. I think of work in terms of earning money nowadays alongside creative and intellectual stimulation. When I am doing it I will give it my all but it doesn’t define me.

Gestalt therapy is fundamentally about identity, present-moment awareness and how we relate to our environment, has that changed how you think about fashion, an industry so obsessed with image and persona?

My personal relationship with clothes, fashion and identity has been a journey. A pillar of gestalt therapy is self awareness and having my own therapy has given me awareness about my relationship with fashion, clothing and the surface nature of it. There is so much wrong with fashion truly, the industry is incredibly flawed. And social media is exacerbating these issues. I think about how I personally fit into that. What is my role and where can I support people? I did a lot of that questioning and supporting with teaching and now I can do it more deeply with clinical work.

Who has been a key mentor, and has the kind of mentorship you’ve needed changed over the course of your career?

I had so many incredible female mentors over the years in fashion: Rebecca Arnold, Amy de la Haye and Judith Clark. My older sister Moira has always supported me. Now moving into gestalt therapy I have had some excellent supervisors, Rebeccca Feldman, Dave Mann and Rick Manista. I do think the type of support you need changes over time but to me it is simple, it is anyone who is in your corner and wants to support you succeed!

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The Therapeutic Perspective

So many people in the creative industries tie their identity completely to their job title. What happens psychologically when that’s taken away, whether through redundancy, a pivot, or just a feeling that it no longer fits?

I am really interested in this, specifically in fashion. Your identity being tied to your work could stem from the fact you are forming your sense of self as a teenager and this is when you are making big decisions about your career. You might choose something that you absolutely love doing – your hobby – then it becomes your job which complicates things. Your sense of self worth gets tied up and capitalism gets involved, you then rely on this job, which is linked to who you are, for your livelihood. I wrote an article for about fashion as a creative adjustment, where I explored how identity can become entwined with fashion at a young age and why that might be. It would make sense then that if this was taken away, your sense of self would crumble. You also might have close relationships built on your role, they might be transactional, romantic or friendships, this is very heartbreaking. If this happens and you lose your job, you need lots of support; it is painful, there is grief for what is no longer and maybe there is a realisation that this isn’t working for you anymore… then you have to do the work of figuring out what is next.

What advice would you give someone struggling with that loss of identity right now?

Be so kind to yourself. And if you can, really try and feel some of the emotions coming up, instead of pushing them away. Or push them away when you need to and try and let them in a little bit over time. Also if you can get a therapist or find someone to talk to. It is a difficult thing to experience and it can help to have someone work through it with you.

The creative industries have a culture of making work your entire personality, the long hours, the passion, the “if you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life” mythology. What’s the cost of that, and how do you actually build a life outside of work without feeling like you’re falling behind?

You have to think about the environment you are in, if you are living in a big city in the Western world then it is organised around this thinking. This is the driving force, to work all the time and be defined by your work. If you find that is no longer working for you, take a moment to realise how hard it is to realise that in that environment. Then it could be useful to start to think in terms of values and needs. What are your core values? What parts of your job do you love? What do you need financially to survive? From there you can start to think about work a bit differently.

What does a fulfilling life outside of work look like to you now, and how did you figure that out?

I like a lot of time to potter around, I do not like having too much on my plate. I like to hang out with my dog (Cutie) and go on walks, go to dinner, socialise (but not too much) and I love TV, I like to zone out and watch long shows. It is about a balance for me. I have changed a lot, I think what I want now is so different to what I wanted when I was younger. You are not a fixed self, gestalt therapy doesn’t believe you are a core person that you have to uncover and figure out, you change all the time, day to day, around others relationally, and over passages of time.

What are the most practical coping strategies you could recommend to others - exercises, practices, even podcasts or time in nature, for someone in the middle of a job hunt or career transition who is struggling?

Breaking up the day with walks or doing anything different than being at your computer might be helpful. Shutting the laptop and giving yourself a specific time frame off worrying, not always possible I know but give it a try. Exercise is helpful, nothing too intense whatever works for you. Rolling around on the floor and feeling sorry for yourself is moving your body – try it you might feel a bit different afterwards.

What do you miss about the industry before social media?

Well it is something I miss but I benefit from, is doing research pre internet 2.0. In the past the library and museum collections were the only way to do it. Now you have a lot of fashion armchair experts which I am into, I am not upset about that. But I do miss having to go somewhere, it was kind of lonely and strange, maybe I am romanticising it. A lot of my colleagues still take the long way around, but I like to cut to the chase. And then on a more obvious level it is so strange knowing lots of things about people you do not know, this parasocial relationship we have with people, I find it creepy. I also think social media benefits certain types of people and others get left behind, that wasn’t exactly the case before. Our times celebrate the loudest, the hottest, the wiliest, the shrewdest…

What has surprised you most about moving from the fashion world into the therapy world, and what’s been unexpectedly similar?

The big difference is you can make mistakes, and you can repair them and you will get supported in the process. Being a therapist you have a lot of support, in fashion you don’t have much, especially in the workplace, and even less if you are self employed.

What advice would you give someone trying to build a creative career today?

I think young people today are way more aware than I was at that age. Try and have fun, make mistakes, don’t think you have to be perfect. It is such a different time now and everything is evolving so quickly I am reluctant to think I have advice, you are all doing great.

What do you wish you knew when you were starting out?

I wish I had had more financial literacy. But then I may not have been a curator and I wouldn’t change that.

What are you working on or excited about right now?

I am running a therapy support group for people who work in fashion and the arts. I am really excited about it, I am hoping it could provide some of the support I talked about being missing from fashion. I am also writing a book about the history of catwalk shows which will come out in 2028. I also have just moved and I am enjoying having a garden for the first time, I am definitely working on that.

FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

My dog - Cutie

Walking Peddars Way in Norfolk (UK)

Dance Class, I used to go to Moves in New York

Loose’s Antique Emporium in Norwich (UK)

Prime Suspect - Helen Mirren is so incredible.

www.shonaghmarshalltherapy.com

www.shonaghmarshall.com

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Delphine Del Val is the founder of POOL, a New York-based talent agency representing women across fashion, beauty, art and culture. Originally from Paris, she built her career as a photographer’s agent before launching Pool in 2015. We speak about moving to New York City without a plan, building a business from scratch, why reputation matters more than a CV, and the realities of working hard in the creative industries.

I never had the clear childhood dream of “I want to be this.” What I really loved was beautiful things. Images, clothes, art, ballet, the way something was put together. I studied music history, then Art History, and then marketing, because I knew I wanted to work somewhere creative but I also needed it to be a real job, not a fantasy.

What I wanted, even before I had the words for it, was to be around talented people and help them. That part never changed.

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I started as a stylist assistant, then became a photographer’s agent in Paris. The first job teaches you fast that nobody owes you anything. You carry the bags, you iron, you run around, you make the calls, it’s hard, but you watch how the good ones work, you learn.

The biggest lesson was that the industry runs on relationships, not just on your CV. People work with people they trust and like. I was good at that part early, and it’s still the thing the whole business is built on. Aka, your reputation MATTERS.

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In 2006 I took a trip to New York and basically decided to stay. That was the turning point. I didn’t know anyone. Really.

I worked as a photographer’s agent at Art Mix, then ran Webber Represents in New York, then became a director at Walter Schupfer Management. Every step I was learning how to build and protect other people’s careers.

The real turning point was meeting while I was at Walter Schupfer. After a few years working together she looked at me and basically said, you should be doing this for yourself. I don’t think I would have started Pool without that push.

The biggest (pivot) one was leaving a safe senior role in 2014 to open Pool in 2015. On paper it was a risk. In my gut it was the only thing that made sense.

I also made a clear choice that Pool would only represent women. That decision shaped everything after it.

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What does “working hard” mean to you?

Working hard is not being busy or answering emails at midnight to prove something. I don’t believe in that.

It’s showing up every day, doing the unglamorous that needs to be done, fighting for my talents when nobody’s watching, and not letting fear talk me out of things I’m scared of. You don’t learn anything from success or “easy,” you learn with failure and hardship, push your limits, try again, “fail again fail better” said Samuel Beckett. The discipline is in the boring parts. Anyone can do the exciting parts.

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Which motto guides your work?

Run your own race.

What makes a great creative team?

Trust, honesty and taste. You need people who are genuinely good at what they do, and you need to actually let them do it. I work with my husband Wes, which sounds like a recipe for disaster and somehow isn’t. He’s rigorous where I’m instinctive.

On Mentors

Walter Schupfer, for teaching me the business at a high level. And Jess Christie in London, who’s a business/brand strategist and has become a real sounding board for me. The right mentor isn’t someone who flatters you. It’s someone who sees you clearly.

How has the industry changed since you started?

When I started, “influence” was about taste, creativity, style. Now it’s often about numbers, and the two are not the same thing. That’s actually why Pool exists.

The pace has also completely changed. Everything is faster, more public, more measured. Some of that is good. A lot of it is noise.

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What do you miss about work/life before social media?

I miss the mystery. The discovery and research. People used to build a body of work before the world had an opinion on it. Now everyone is visible from day one, and it makes people anxious to start anything. Every “mistake” and beginnings are public and criticized.

I also miss being a bit more unreachable. There’s a real beauty in not knowing everything everyone is doing at every moment.

What advice would you give someone trying to break into creative careers today?

Be genuinely useful, actually try to make yourself indispensable and be someone people want in the room. Talent matters, but reliability and kindness will get you further than you think, because so few people actually have that. Be discreet, don’t talk too much or too loud. Listen and observe.

And don’t wait to feel ready. You build the confidence by doing the thing, not before.

What do you wish you knew when you were starting out?

That the fear never fully goes away, and that’s fine. I built an agency and I still get imposter syndrome. I used to think the successful people had it all figured out. They don’t, they just keep going anyway.

I also wish I’d known that one silence is not a verdict. People are busy, try again, don’t get discouraged.

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How do you pick the women for Pool?

It’s a gut thing first, then I pressure-test it.

She has to be rare. Someone building an aesthetic, a point of view, a world. A maker, not a follower, and not someone chasing influence for its own sake. Not trying to be cool.

And honestly, I have to want to hang out with her. I’m a genuine fan of every woman on my roster. If I’m not, it doesn’t work. Zero cringe possible.

Are there any cultural differences between working and living in France and the US?

The French are wonderful at the art of living, art, food, style. But professionally there can be more hesitations, more nos than yeses. More scrutiny.

Americans taught me ambition without apology. In New York you’re allowed to want big things and say so out loud, which as a French woman took me time to get comfortable with. Nobody flinches when you aim high.

The dream is to live with one foot in each.

What does work-life balance look and feel like to you?

That’s my ongoing project, not something I’ve mastered. I work nearly every day and I’m still learning to put boundaries around it.

For me balance is small and daily. Pilates four times a week, coffee and reading a book before I touch my phone every morning, a walk alone, dinner with friends I actually want to see. Protecting those things is the balance.

What are you working on or excited about right now?

Growing POOL thoughtfully.

On a nerdier note, AI! I’ve been using Claude as a kind of chief of staff to get more organized and take the admin off my plate, which has been a quietly huge unlock for someone who is creative first and organized second. I like that I’m still learning new tools at this stage instead of digging in my heels.

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FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

L’Etiquette magazine and right now the Women’s edition

Learning and teaching myself new things, like origami, Claude and leather work.

Danielle McKinney’s Art

Violette_Fr Bisous Balm in Coquelicot

Hunting for vintage Levi’s, in NY “The Consistency Project” is really good.

My Polo Ralph Lauren favorite white sweatshirt and my Hermes pants I got at a recent sample sale!!!

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Paige Hanserd is a Creative Director, shaping visual narratives across brand, editorial, experiential, and cultural spaces. Her path spans institutions including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Brooklyn Museum, Karma Gallery, Brand Director at Glossier, to her current role as Creative Director at Olaplex, all while maintaining a rich parallel life of side projects; her substack Mustard is the New Black, book and magazine collecting, and her newest endeavor Paige Archive.

Getting started

I literally was so bored at my day job at a hair salon as a receptionist and could not stand it anymore, so I took a sick day and googled “art schools atlanta”, went to the one that looked the coolest and now I’m here lol.

What did you want to be growing up?

A chef, ironically because I’m not sure I could tell you the last time I’ve cooked a meal. I am spoiled by my boyfriend who has a passion for cooking. I also was obsessed with space (still am) and I wanted to be an astronaut, but my fear of heights kinda killed that dream early on.

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What was your first job, and what did it teach you about breaking into the industry?

It was as a Graphic Designer at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The largest learning was to not be afraid to ask questions. I was so afraid of looking like I didn’t know what I was doing that I would stress myself out and I could’ve been in a better spot if I had just asked. This industry has also taught me that to do your job well you need to value your team and you need to respect the team. At the level I am at now, we don’t win if everyone isn’t supported. Support yourself and your team! The output is always better with a mutual respect for each other and each other’s time and input.

Career Journey & Pivots

How did your career unfold? I’ve always been all over the place with making things. I used to make zines, design merch + flyers for bands, I’ve always blogged and would make short films from bursts of inspiration and I found a way to turn it into a career lol. I started in the museum space designing exhibitions, to then designing books for Karma Gallery, to Brand Direction at Glossier, to now a Creative Director at Olaplex. All the while on the side I still dip into side projects that help keep my creativity and active brain alive.

What were the unexpected turning points?

Probably my pivot from DIY to being the Brand Director at Glossier lol. I am but an old punk girl lost in the corporate world now. I learned there that it was possible to work with like-minded people who really, really cared about the work. It was a blast while it lasted <3

Have you made any major career pivots?

The switch from Designer to Creative Direction was pretty major. Every (graphic) designer has their strengths and mine was my “hyper ideas” as I like to call them/just made up now lol. I have a very visual mind and it’s always going. If I’m excited about something I can’t get off it and I learned that made for a good Creative Director.

Career Philosophy

What does “working hard” mean to you?

At this point, it’s about boundaries. In this industry the work never ends. In order to compete burn out, I’ve learned I have to carve out the time to step away and get re-inspired. If I can, I try to get out of the country once a year and experience something new. As creatives we are never not “working hard”. It’s synonymous with the title.

Which motto guides your work?

“I don’t know what I don’t know”. Always be open to learning and enter every project with humility and with the opportunity to learn something new. Everyone has a role and let them rock in their lane while you stay respectfully in your’s :)

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What makes a great creative team?

Fostering an energy for the creative team to feel comfortable to ask questions and pivot in direction. Anyone can have a great idea! I think also respecting everyone’s time and natural strengths.

Who has been a key mentor in your journey?

That’s a tough one, I have a lot of great peers in the industry that I learn from every day. I wouldn’t call her a mentor per se as we are always bouncing things off of each other, but I’d shout out Nicole Kurily, a collaborator I love to work with who always encourages ideas I have that may seem scary or like no one would go for it. She’s so talented!

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What do you miss about work/life before social media?

Godddddddddddd. I’m not old enough to have worked in this industry before social media BUT! I live for the day where we are set free from it. Obviously it has tremendous strengths for our industry but I also think it’s tremendously stifled us. I have a lot more to say on this but maybe we save those thoughts for a martini and some fries lol.

How has the industry changed since you started?

A huge emphasis on paid media and influencer content. Neither thing excites me but they’re necessary to the business now and it’s been an interesting challenge on how to reframe how those assets look + feel. I’m always trying to push for ways to reinterpret those channels in a fresher way.

What has surprised you most about the industry?

How much talent there is out there and how fun it can be. I’m introverted by nature and sometimes being on set with a lot of new people can feel counterintuitive to who I really am, but I almost always leave feeling rejuvenated and happy to have met so many talented people.

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Is there any advice would you give someone trying to break into creative careers today?

Don’t just do it for the “cool title”, break into it because you’re passionate about some of the aspects of a creative career, whatever it may be. You will hate it if you ain’t built for it, because like I said- we are never not “working hard”. I’d also say to trust your gut! I bet your crazy idea is genius, but no one will know about it if you don’t try it out <3

What do you wish you knew when you were starting out?

Hmmmm, that you make shit if you work at a museum because they aren’t properly funded? lol? I also wish I knew that it isn’t as scary as it looks to ask questions in meetings when you have no clue what they’re talking about. It’s refreshing when someone new joins the team and asks a new question (even if I know the answer to it)- it’s refreshing that they’re not afraid to learn more.

What are you working on or excited about right now?

I just started a little video series called “PAIGE ARCHIVE“ that focuses on my large collection (aka “ARCHIVE” ha) of films, books, and magazines. I lowkey have over 300 dvds/blu-rays, so like I essentially have my own Criterion closet. Not revealing my magazine and book count because I’d blush from embarrassment. Yes moving sucks for me more than everyone else because of it lol hehe :D

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FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

Jonathan Anderson at Dior, I’ve been such a huge fan of Jonathan Anderson’s work over the years that it’s just so rewarding to see him grow and kill it at Dior. He also has one of the best designed websites *period* for his JW Anderson line. I just love his approach to his creative, every touchpoint so thoughtful and beautiful.

Rachel Zoe entering the housewife universe via Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. I die (and live) for her. Now if we could just get Taylor (iykyk) to be a “Friend Of” I’ll be sliving

I’m an enormous fan of Glenn Martens and seeing him kill it at Margiela has been superb. My best friend Cameron and I were the biggest Y/Project stans and were gutted when the brand closed, so this is an incredible make up for it.

My membership to Film at Lincoln Center. I will straight up post up all day. The other day I spent 7hrs there to see Maurice Pialat’s La maison des bois and it was a highlight of my year.

Spring in NYC!!!!!

PaigeHanserd.com

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OUR FIRST WORK(ING) HARD WORLD

EVENT TAKES PLACE IN NYC NEXT WEEK

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Bringing the Work(ing) Hard World Community together IRL

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Julian Paik is the Founder of Paik Studio, a New York-based sales and merchandising consultancy working with coveted brands including HommeGirls, Chelsea Mak, Commission and Judy Turner.

Previously at Opening Ceremony, Carven, and a key figure in the growth of Aimé Leon Dore, she also runs Breadbrose - a sourdough project made with equal parts precision and heart.

What did you ‘want to be’ growing up?

A pediatrician and a marine biologist

What were the unexpected turning points?

Having a baby and navigating my career and motherhood

Have you made any major career pivots? Starting my own company has always been a dream of mine, and whilst so nerve-wracking and a bit scary to do (!) I’m so happy and grateful that I did it. A great gift I’ve given myself is the autonomy to navigate my own schedule and clients.

What was the moment you decided to start out on your own, and what were the first six months of Paik Studio really like?

It wasn’t one big moment, it kind of snuck up on me. I had this network of designers and creatives who kept coming to me for help on the merchandising side, and eventually I realized there was an opportunity to do something more than just wholesale. So I just went for it. The first six months were honestly pretty smooth, aside from the fact that the world went into Covid lockdown three months in (!!). But I wasn’t starting from zero - the relationships were already there, so it was less about convincing people and more about finally having the right vehicle to help them.

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Career Philosophy

What does “working hard” mean to you?

“Working hard” means showing up and making it happen

What makes a great creative team? Communication and taste

Who has been a key mentor in your journey?

Carol Lim and Shirley Yung - my boss queens at Opening Ceremony, where I was lucky to witness firsthand the kind of woman, leader, and overall baddie that I wanted to become!

What did you learn from Carol and Shirley that you carry with you to this day? Honestly, seeing Carol and Shirley in powerful roles and just crushing it - as Asian women - was inspiring in a way that’s hard to put into words. It shaped how I see what’s possible, and that stays with me every day.

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Industry & Culture

What do you miss about work/life before social media?

Being excited about magazine subscriptions.

What has surprised you most about the industry?

How much the industry hasn’t really changed as far as the fashion calendar and what comes with that. But I’m also gratefully surprised about how many incredible, deeply meaningful relationships and connections I have made because of said industry.

Advice

What advice would you give someone trying to break into creative careers today?

Go into your work with an open mind and an open heart. Allow yourself to learn about different roles and new ideas.

What do you wish you knew when you were starting out? It’s not that deep!

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Now & Next

What are you excited about right now? I’m excited about summer in the city - sun, my daughter’s rosy cheeks after a day at the park, tan lines, post-dinner ice cream cones .. can’t wait.

I’m also excited to host a Breadbrose bagel pop-up (or two) .. stay tuned!

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FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

Monastery x Coppola Hideaways Hydrating Mist - I am a huge Monastery fan and fully trust Athena with my skin. The scent of this spray is actual heaven.

Jones Road Neutralizing Pencil - The perfect size and texture, I use this pencil every day for red spots and dark circles.

Jellycat Pigeon - Hoping this gets restocked because we love her!

Misha & Puff Beach Jacket - I love everything they make for kids and this cute knit hoodie is on the top of my list for my daughter for the summer.

Variations of a cucumber salad - All I want to eat lately .. this recipe works with chunkier cuts of cucumber too.

Paik Studio.com

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However, having grown up in the 90’s and early 00’s in London before social media existed, (as well as being British) and behind the scenes in the industry, talking about myself has never come naturally, so, consider this a first introduction.

I had decided not to post this over the long weekend (both in the UK and USA), especially with some great interviews coming out next week, but inspired by on this rainy Memorial (sun)day weekend, I was also curious to also revisit my Atelier Dore interview (RIP) and see how much has changed since 2018, the year I started my move to Los Angeles.

Thank you to the wonderful for featuring me back then - my fellow global citizen who I knew from London and, very fortunately for me, was also in LA, where I got to know her properly, she became a very dear friend as we navigated American life, dating and other weird things about Hollywood.

Glad to say the takeaways from the interview remain the same for me to this day and I enjoyed this trip down memory lane (… those are important from time to time). LA was the best in terms of wearing everything you’ve ever wanted to and having zero issues with public transport and weather ruining footwear.♥️

Published in 2018 - Atelier Dore (RIP)

HOW TO / BUILD A BRAND WITH JULIA MELBOURNE

Julia Melbourne is a PR superstar. Think Samantha Jones (from Sex and the City!) at the height of her career, but without the shoulder pads or the drama. Rather, Julia is a consummate professional, a hard-worker, well-connected beyond belief, and kind and charming to boot!

Impressive, I know. In an industry that often thrives off of faux sincerity, Julia has managed to cut through the bullshit and carve out a niche for herself based on her caring and positive energy and her genuine excitement for the people and companies she works with. She also has a special knack for finding and attracting the coolest brands.

Her impressive list of past roles includes: working with Kate Moss on the launch of her Topshop collection and directing in-house PR at companies such as Stella McCartney, Agent Provocateur, and Maison Martin Margiela.

After years of experiences on the in-house side of the branded world, Julia launched her own consultancy, Iris PR London. Now, her client roster boasts an exciting mix of huge, mainstream companies as well as cult-celebrated indie brands, including: Alexander McQueen, Byredo, Paul Smith, Maison Michel, Ralph & Russo, and Chylak.

Given all of this, I believe Julia is uniquely qualified to give us a lesson on branding and PR strategy. Whether you’ve had an idea in the back of your head for years that you’ve been itching to explore, you’re in the process of writing a business plan, or you’re considering the logistics of the freelance life, we all can learn a thing or two from Julias tried and tested tips and tricks...

On the first step for someone looking to start a brand or go out on their own

Step one is having the confidence to trust your idea. Whether you are starting a brand or setting up a consultancy, an agency, or even starting to freelance, really think about why you are doing it and focus on what you can offer that is different from what is already on offer within that field.

On the next step after that

It’s important to establish a standard of professionalism. Whether the business you intend to build is a service or a product, always work with the same standards across everything - pay invoices on time, help people out, remember when people have helped you, always think long term and about the bigger picture.

On collaborating with other creatives and the necessity of a network

Even when you set out on your own, the beauty is that you’re still never working alone; you continue to build and extend on your existing network, collaborating with others who are doing their own thing too. From production to photography, styling, and casting - you’re always going to be working with others. Some of the best friends I’ve made over the years have come from trips where I’ve met similarly driven and creative people who inspire me. I’m always looking at new ways to work on projects with others, bringing new people in, and having a stronger offering through collaboration. And if you’re ever unable to take on a client or project, you’ll have a strong and trustworthy team to recommend.

On her early career

I didn’t have any open doors into the industry. But, as they say, you make your own luck in life... I was studying French at university at the time and wanted to work in the fashion industry. I applied to some of the Fashion houses in Paris and was incredibly fortunate to be offered jobs at Chanel and Maison Martin Margiela. I worked at Margiela for a year and am so honoured to have been part of the original team. I had the pleasure to meet and work with Martin in person ... I am still friends with so many from the original team to this day. It was a wonderful era to be part of. I was one of the only English speakers on the team, working closely with Martin and some other amazing creatives who are now at Dries Van Noten and Hermes, as well as talented stylists who are forging their own paths. It’s so fun to see how everyone is doing today.

On how early experiences can shape a career and requiring a similarly high standard from her clients

My early experience at Margiela really served as a benchmark for what I’ve looked for in other professional relationships. I’ve tried to have this spirit of creativity and collaboration in mind when I work with other clients. You naturally end up working with lesser-known names as well as bigger ones. But ultimately, when you believe in a designer or brand, and share a vision of where you are headed, you can grow and enjoy the milestones together.

On viewing a brand holistically and working with the client to grow

The original reason I set up my consultancy was that I felt there was a lack of agencies / consultancies who worked with clients in a 360 way. Often the agencies separated their teams: events, PR and, celebrity. But most of the time, clients need a combination and require several areas. Especially nowadays as the rate at which the landscape is changing so quickly, you have to be adaptable and work in a really nimble way to be able to get the best, most strategic results for clients.

I like to think of my consultancy as an extension of an in-house team. We are part of their extended family. It’s all about growing together, listening to each other, advising on the best way to do things, maintaining the vision of where you want to be and mapping out how we are going to get there together.

On retaining authenticity in a world where it’s easy to sell out

Most brands and designers start a project because it’s a passion for them. It is imperative for a brand / designer to have a clear idea of their muse and to always keep that in mind... you can definitely grow a brand with integrity if your muse and your vision remain in the foreground. Be patient, sustainable growth can take time. Don’t sell out, especially early on.

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On not getting caught up on “it girls,” instead prioritizing a brand’s specificity

So many brands and agencies go wrong when they approach each project with the same set of celebrities. Instead of getting wrapped up in ‘it’ girls, it’s important to look at the client specifically and cast who is going to be the best fit for the aesthetic, longer term.

Otherwise, you wind up with the same group of women at every dinner or event, regardless of who the client is, and it ends up all blurring into one.

I started working in the industry when the landscape was really different; celebrities weren’t paid large fees and they didn’t have the team of publicists like they do now, it was about nurturing relationships, understanding the subtleties, and growing together.

I have always been so inspired by emerging names in film, art, and music. One of my favorite things about the process is working with someone early on in their career so that when they become global successes and are courted by brands with big contracts, they still remain faithful to the designers who supported them earlier in their career.

On staying true to your demographic and locale

Having local knowledge is so important. Know who the relevant and interesting women are in each city - those who are aspirational and inspiring among their peers, rather than going for those merely with high Instagram audiences (who may be less authentic, thus creating a less genuine partnership).

Especially now, it is so important to protect a brand. Often, a large part of my job is declining partnerships and celebrities as much as it’s about courting them. If someone has a low number of followers, but you love what they are doing and their vision, you can grow together with them.

On the role of a brand ambassador

The role of a brand ambassador is still as important as ever. So much consideration goes into this search. Much like casting, an actress or celebrity is representing your brand so you cannot compromise on the aesthetic and philosophy. There has to be a natural synergy. So long as this partnership is authentic and genuine, the role of the ambassador will always be necessary as it gives the audience an opportunity to see the products on real people and in real-world scenarios.

On the importance of a larger (social!) mission and partnering with likeminded individuals and organizations

So many women are using their voices in such inspiring ways these days. Two of my favorite examples are Adwoa Aboah and Cara Delevingne, who are both de-stigmatizing mental health. Or female collectives whose goals are to help other women in their industry or to engage younger generations in politics. These messages are really important and empowering. Rather than paying for a celebrity to post something on social media, a collaborative partnership with integrity and meaning has so much more value for both parties. Collectively use your platforms to help raise awareness and support bigger causes! Being relevant as a brand in the social/ cultural sphere also means you are more likely to have a higher impact with press and wider audiences long term.

On finding inspiration in other women

Chloe Sevigny and Sofia Coppola are my ultimate muses. They both have such an incredible eye. The way Chloe wears archive pieces and thrift store finds is so unique, although it is a very much ‘copied’ look these days. And Sofia always presents herself with the perfect mix of elegance and cool.

On the most important takeaways for practical use

Take your time - don’t expect things to happen overnight, it is more important to be true to your values and to create a brand with an authentic following (which will happen over time). It will be more impactful if you do things in the right way, rather than selling out too soon by making an impatient decision for a quick result.

Reputation is everything - remember that the industry is small and everyone grows with you. Some of the junior assistants I worked with 14 years ago are now fashion directors and editors.

Apply the same standards to anything you put your name to; whether it is a big brand or a smaller emerging designer.

Be selective about celebrities and who you work with, it is better to build something slowly rather than over-exposing the brand and burning out too quickly.

You can tell so much from a first meeting, read body-language and listen to what they say as this will give you so much insight into how they will be to work with. Always listen to your gut feeling!

(My story - As told to in 2018)

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ENJOY YOUR LONG WEEKEND♥️

Looking forward to sharing the two interviews coming out this week

Julia xxx

Thank you!

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Meet London-based Benjamin Canares, Fashion Editor at Financial Times, HTSI Magazine and stylist.

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What was your first job, and what did it teach you about breaking into the industry?

As a freelance stylist’s assistant, it taught me that being super organized and diligent will get you far. And not to be late! It’s so rude and disrespectful to the rest of the team.

A motto that has always stayed with me

“Always Be kind!” From my parents.

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The best team that I have worked with?

Has to be the team at HTSI magazine! A big thanks to Editor in Chief, Jo Ellison and Style Director Isabelle Kountoure for hiring me and making me part of this special and extremely hardworking group of people!

A career highlight

Was getting the Fashion Editor job at HTSI back in Oct 2021.

On Mentors

I started out freelancing, assisting some amazing female fashion stylists: Cathy Kasterine, Camilla Nickerson, Kate Phelan & Clare Richardson, who have had a huge impact on my career, and I’ve learnt so much from them. So, thank you ladies, I would not have got here without you.

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What does “working hard” mean to you?

“Working hard” means giving your all to something while still enjoying the process and being happy with both the process and the results. Also giving the same effort to jobs/tasks big or small.

When I grew up I wanted to ….work on a fashion magazine in LDN or NY!

The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am?

Staying true to your aesthetic and being yourself can get you where you want to be even though the process may take longer.

The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self

Keep doing what you’re doing! Have fun and don’t be afraid of making mistakes (In life and fashion)

What I miss most about days before social media

The freedom and lack of pressure to document your life and work! But Instagram has done wonders for creatives who are able to share their work. And of course, I love TikTok!

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Something I’m most excited about right now

Upcoming debut Collections by Pieter Muller at Versace and Wales Bonner at Hermès! Also excited to see the Sofia Coppola x Marc Jacobs documentary.

What does work-life balance look / feel like to you?

I’m not going to lie; it’s hard to maintain a work-life balance in this job! It’s not as simple as a Monday-to-Friday, 9-to-5 schedule. The hours are long! But I think it’s important that when you have downtime, make the most of it: exercise, see friends, laze around or my fave - shop!!!

How has the industry changed since you started?

There’s definitely a huge focus on digital media more than ever before. The huge presence of online platforms like Instagram and TikTok means people consume content much faster. Also budget cuts followed factors like Brexit. Buttt Not to be too negative! On the positive side the issue of diversity is openly addressed. And the rise of social media has given creatives more visibility. Even though there are fewer print publications now, their quality is at its highest because you need to keep up to stay relevant.

What advice would you give someone trying to break into creative careers today?

Do your research and be thorough! Don’t lie as people see right through that!

What do you wish you knew when you were starting out?

All your hard work will get somewhere! And it will pay off even though it doesn’t feel like it at the time. Try not to stress!!

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FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

Chanel ballet flats - I caught the Chanel shopping bug in Paris during the shows and managed to find some in a rare Euro 42! Ofc it has made me want more! One friend even said it could be a rule to buy something new at Chanel after every show, let’s see - not sure I can afford that!

The Curry Mistress! My friend cooks amazing Indian food, and they currently have a residency at Clapton Craft in Walthamstow. Her Prawn curry, dahl and parkoras are divine!

Simuero ring I have not taken this off since getting it and everyone always asks where it’s from; I’m always giving them the Insta link!

Upcoming tour dates from my BF Rhumba Club here which includes dates in Athens, Edinburgh, Manchster and LDN.

Hot Mat Pilates at Studio Anatomy in London Fields, so great to do at the end of the working week to sweat and stretch the stress out of your body!

www.benjamincanares.com

Thank you!

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If you enjoyed this, please subscribe to ensure you don’t miss out on early access to interviews, in-person events, our Community Conversation as well as joining the discussion with other creatives.

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is a fashion historian and contemporary fashion writer. Her work has been featured in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and New York Magazine, and she created a column on the history of runway fashion for an audience of over two million readers on the now- shuttered style-and-culture website Man Repeller.

Ruby holds an MA in Fashion History from the Courtauld Institute of Art and an MA in the History of Art from the University of Saint Andrews. She has held a variety of roles within the fashion industry from celebrity stylist to shoe designer.

I write and consult about fashion history.

I have basically always worked in fashion, but I have had many different roles within the industry. Now I run a concept store called MESS and I write about fashion history for a variety of sources, including my own newsletter Old Fashioned and I write for Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, as well as contributing to fashion history books and journals.

What does “working hard” mean to you? Working hard means that there is no ‘Plan B’ - you’re all in.

For any questions for our guests - join the chat!

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On first jobs

I think a lot of people know this about me at this point, but I started working for Marc Jacobs when I was 13. It was absolutely insane and the best introduction to the industry that I could ever have dreamt up. I ended up staying until I was 18!

I worked in shoe design at Marc Jacobs, It was the heyday of Marc as a brand (mid-2010s), so we had a huge team - much bigger than what I believe they have now. And obviously a big budget...the glory days! Though yes there was a lot of incredible hands-on experience. I did everything from cutting the soles of shoes to styling the runway looks with Marc himself.

The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today is that I’ve been able to straddle the worlds of both academic fashion history and not-so-academic contemporary fashion. I was told many times that those practices would never align, and I’m super proud to be proof that they totally can.

The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self is… Nothing. She had it all figured out.

When I grew up I wanted to be … doing something with writing and clothes. I’m glad I figured it out!

A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me… The less makeup you have on, the more clothes you can wear.

A career highlight for me? I think I’m bad at recognising highlights. I’m always just striving for more!

The thing I miss most about pre–social media days was real moodboards. I hate being shown images on an iPhone screen! Print them out and pin them up for me!

On Mentors

I’m not sure I’ve had a proper mentor, but I have been so lucky to work with some truly amazing people in my career. I’m forever grateful to the MANY people who have taken a chance on me (and my wild ideas) since my very early entry into the world of fashion.

The best team that I have worked is with my husband! We have worked together on everything since we first met ten years ago, and we own and operate Mess together. It certainly wouldn’t be for everyone, but we love it. Working on creative projects brings us closer and closer in our relationship each time, and we develop this incredible telepathy the more we do it.

Something I’m most excited about right now is SUMMER!

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FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

My new red Miu Miu sunglasses that are making all my outfits feel fresh

Alec’s Matcha Chip ice cream - I’m a big ice cream girl and this is my flavour of the week.

Miss Mess, our mascot for the store who we released as a soft vinyl figurine last month. It was a real dream come true to design a toy from scratch, and she makes me smile every single time I look at her

Red lipstick, especially this Fara Homidi compact

The brief moment in New York spring where pink petals cover the sidewalk - my absolute favourite colour!

www.rubyredstone.com

Thank you!

🏹♥️

If you enjoyed this, please subscribe to ensure you don’t miss out on early access to interviews, in-person events, our Community Conversation as well as joining the discussion with other creatives.

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…. And now for some VERY exciting news!

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First events will be:

New York City | London | Paris | Los Angeles

… More to be announced soon! 💌

Chelsea Zalopany is a stylist, writer, and Fashion Editor based in New York City. She is Market Editor at HOMMEGIRLS Magazine, a multimedia project she’s been aligned with since its launch. Previously, she served as the online European Market Editor at Vogue for nearly five years as well as a Fashion News Writer for Vogue, where she helped spearhead VOGUE.com’s digital fashion presence across all platforms. Her work has appeared in publications and platforms including T Magazine, British Vogue, MatchesFashion (RIP!) The Line, Domino Magazine and The Webster.

What does “working hard” mean to you?

Making the best thing you can make in anything and everything you do.

“When I grew up I wanted to be ….” a ballet dancer

My first job…Vogue fashion news assistant

The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today is…everything and nothing.

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The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self is… being tall is actually a great thing.

A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me… stop feeling like you need to apologize

A career highlight for me was…. this is a good question. The Met Gala feels like the obvious answer?

The thing I miss most about pre–social media days…everything! The inhibition and the presence of discovery. Having tangible pictures and CDs

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Someone who has been a mentor to me is Sally Singer (below)

The best team that I have worked with would be Jen Brill, Thakoon Panicghul and Stella Greenspan. Because it’s not so serious. They know how to make fashion fun! But back in the day with Sally Singer, Jorden Bickham, Kelly Connor, Andrew Gold, etc. everyday was just so fun.

Something I’m most excited about right now is spending the summer in Italy.

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FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

CHANEL SS26 long-sleeved shirt

Herby flavored cult corn

Pierre Frey Paris fabric

Versace pivot small suede bucket bag

Darling shop in Brooklyn Heights

www.chelseazalopany.com

Thank you!

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Hello! I’m Christie Tyler, I’m a fashion influencer, writer, and creative. I also love interior design. I recently moved to Los Angeles after living in New York for ten years.

As a fashion influencer, I have the privilege of photographing and styling clothing or products for beautiful brands across various industry facets. I write fashion articles for Marie Claire and for my own Substack, NYCBambi, as well. I designed a daybed and am working on more furniture too, another passion of mine. I love being creative and love inserting my touch or learning about taste wherever I can.

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I think “working hard” means pursuing your passions and goals. Pursue whatever comes naturally and whatever makes you the happiest, in any way you can. I think “working hard” also means being scared a lot of the time. When you hear “working hard,” you immediately picture someone with ultimate confidence going after their goals full stop, when in reality I actually think it means doing the things you don’t want to do, when you’re scared, or when you have no idea what the outcome will be.

I have been scared a lot of my career journey, but I also think great, positive things come from overcoming fear. Now I think “working hard” is still the same - but it has morphed a bit as I’ve gotten older. I think it’s easy to sort of continue on doing the same thing. Part of working hard involves evolving, understanding, and knowing when to step forward or let others take the lead. It is sort of a balance that you have to work out in your brain. It’s also about knowing your own worth and what is valuable to and for you.

When I grew up I wanted to be …. good. Just purely and simply. I wanted to be beautiful both outwardly and inwardly. I wanted people to know me by my thoughts, not just my appearance. I would rehearse answering certain questions in pretend interviews. I think I literally had a pretend interview (when I was 12) with Oprah once. I love doing good, being good, being kind. Those have always been the most important to me. When I grew up I also wanted to be a spy… but we can discuss that later.

The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today is that it was partially an accident. I didn’t really want people to know me, see my face, or know what I was doing. But the audience came and I ran with it, no matter how uncomfortable, scared, or also happy all of it made me! I was such a shy girl not wanting to be known on the Internet, but I also knew that this audience I was accumulating meant so much. I knew it would ultimately lead me to my dream life, so I stuck with it.

The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self is: Keep Going. You’re doing everything right. You will find the community that understands you. The misunderstanding and loneliness you’re feeling now will lead you to the best thing to happen to you.

A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me…it takes more courage to be soft than tough.

A career highlight for me was…. attending the first Matthieu Blazy Chanel show. I had been working with Chanel for a number of years, which has been the ultimate highlight of my career, and I knew that show was an extra special one and very sought after for a seat. I was extremely honored to attend. It was as if all the work we had done together over the years led me to that moment. It was such a gorgeous show; it opened with one of my all-time favorite instrumentals Pas de Deux by Tchaikovsky. It felt like it was fated.

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The thing I miss most about pre–social media days…I’m sure everyone says this, but I miss how present we were without our phones. I love putting my phone down for a long afternoon and trying to forget about it. I miss being at a restaurant and looking around and seeing other people looking around. Now everyone is buried in their phones. Sometimes that boredom is actually so special. I train myself not to look at my phone, even when I’m eating lunch or dinner alone. I look around and feel like I’m savoring every morsel of the moment.

Someone who has been a mentor to me is …my mom. She always has provided me with much direction and honesty. Whenever I need a true, honest answer, I go to her. She somehow understands this fairly new job, uplifts me, and keeps my best interests at heart.

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I most recently did a shoot with Freja New York at my home in Los Angeles, with Logan Mock as the photographer, Trevor Browning as the videographer, Brielle Smith, Bee Jones, and Tesa Jurjasevic. They were an incredible team. We pulled off the shoot flawlessly and under the time we anticipated needing. Everyone was so efficient and so happy. I love a team that can be simultaneously focused yet uplifting. Sometimes on shoots people have different directions and priorities. We were such a well-oiled machine and I can’t wait to see images.

I’m most excited about Spring, Summer, and traveling more! I want a European summer to relax, unwind, eat fruit, and recharge inspiration. Working hard is about playing hard, too. I’m very excited for a couple of work things I am working on but don’t want to say too much yet.

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FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

My watering can!

Diptyque’s Tubereuse Candle

These Tom Ford sunglasses

Chanel slingbacks by Matthieu Blazy

Stoner by John Williams

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Meet Tish Weinstock, London-based writer and muse who has contributed to influential industry publications including , Dazed, as well as British Vogue, where she continues to work as a contributing editor.

She also writes the brilliantly honest “I’m Sick, *Coughs” substack, and in 2024, published her debut book, How To Be a Goth: Notes on Undead Style, which was featured by The New York Times and included contributions from Amanda Harlech, Katy England, Anjelica Huston, and Kate Moss.

Tish has fronted campaigns and walked runways for houses including Chloé, Vivienne Westwood and Maison Margiela and worked with celebrated photographers such as Juergen Teller, Paolo Roversi and Oliver Hadlee Pearch, and been featured in and on the cover of magazines including Pop, Vogue, Arena Homme+, Perfect, Luncheon and i-D.

…In addition, this year, Tish made her acting debut in A24’s The Moment, starring alongside Charli XCX, Kylie Jenner and Alexander Skarsgård.

What do you do now? Writer, half baked influencer, geriatric model, cameo actress

What does “working hard” mean to you? Saying yes to everything even when you’re at capacity

“When I grew up I wanted to be ….” Happy?

The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today is… it’s all pretty unexpected tbh and I’m eternally grateful.

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The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self is… “Its not that deep”.

A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me? I don’t have one, maybe that’s where I’ve been going wrong

A career highlight for me was being on set with the goat John Galliano for our Luncheon shoot.

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The thing I miss most about pre–social media days… having a brain?

Someone who has been a mentor to me … Holly Shackleton gave me my first ever job at i-D

The best team that I have worked with was probably the i-D team. It was just such a great time for content. Pre rage bait and AI slop. It was thoughtful journalism which meant our ideas meetings were always fun and considered as opposed to just slacking each other daily mail articles to regurgitate.

What are you most most excited about at the moment?

I want to fall in love with a project. I’d love to write a screen play or novel, but I’m procrastinating.

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FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

I’m currently reading Cookie Mueller ‘Walking Through Clear Water In A Pool Painted Black’. What an insane life she had, I also just love how she writes.

I’m obsessed with Ivy Wolk and her unhinged rants on stories

John Richardson’s interiors, we’re currently doing up our place in London and he’s on the perennial mood board.

1920s opera coats. I can’t stop buying them.

My Substack It allows me to process my internal thoughts although some of them I probably shouldn’t be admitting in public.

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Meet Christina Holevas, an editor, stylist, and brand consultant with over a decade of experience in fashion media and advertising. Contributing regularly to Vogue, W Magazine, and Neptune Papers, and collaborating with brands including Emme Parsons and Tabayer.

What do you do now? I am a fashion editor - I wear a lot of hats. I write for a few different magazines about shopping, style and trends, and I also work as a stylist for photoshoots. I also publish a newsletter, Habiter, about the clothes people wear on repeat.

Working hard for me is a feeling. It happens when I’m really engaged in something, so much so that I don’t notice the time going by.

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When I grew up I wanted to be …. I’ve always vaguely wanted to work in fashion. I didn’t know that the job of a fashion editor existed - but if I had known, that’s what I would have picked.

The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today? I don’t know if it’s unexpected but I think the internet has changed the trajectory of my career the most. It profoundly altered the magazine industry, and also made it possible for editors like me to shape our own careers and make money in new and unexpected ways.

The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self Don’t worry and don’t rush. Everything you’re hoping for will happen in due time. Enjoy being 16!

Any advice for someone looking to get into the industry now? Hmm that’s a good question. I know that it’s tougher now for young people, because there aren’t as many internships. I think the equivalent now, for magazines at least, is a freelance closet assistant. Those jobs open up every few months, so I would keep an eye out for those postings. And then I would say, if you can get a foot in the door, by far the most important thing is having a positive attitude. Be friendly, proactive, and eager to put in the work. People will remember that.

A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me Be kind and be excited to be in the room.

A career highlight for me was launching Habiter. Seeing it grow has been a huge highlight.

On life pre-social media

I miss the thrill of discovery - the feeling of finding something totally new. Early social media enhanced this, but now in our algorithmic world it feels harder to find something truly original.

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On first jobs

The summer before my senior year of college I interned at Elle Magazine in the accessories closet. I loved it there and I made a point to stay in touch with the team when I went back to school. I actually always forget to mention this but when I graduated from college my very first (very short) job was working for a well known photographer as a studio assistant (he shall remain nameless). That job was not a good fit, so after three months I found myself looking for work again. I contacted Stefania Allen and Kate Davidson Hudson the accessories editors at ELLE, to see if they had any openings. They were really sweet and brought me on in a freelance capacity to help with a temporary project. Kate and Stef were friends with Maria Duenas Jacobs, who was working at GLAMOUR at the time. GLAMOUR was looking for an assistant, Maria asked Kate and Stef if they knew anyone, and they recommended me. The rest is history!

On mentors

I’ve had so many mentors over the years but someone who stands out is one of my first bosses, Maria (Duenas Jacobs). She took me under her wing when I was a young editor and really encouraged me to grow. She was a great editor (and has turned into a great entrepreneur) but also had a really solid work/life balance and kept her priorities in order. She put her family first and didn’t sweat the small stuff.

It’s impossible to say the best team I’ve worked with, I’ve worked with so many amazing teams over the years, and many of my former colleagues, from many different jobs, have turned into my best friends. I will say that I worked at W Magazine during a very exciting time. It’s been really cool to watch Sara (Moonves) transform the magazine into such a cultural powerhouse.

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Something I’m most excited about right now

Controversial answer but I am simultaneously excited about and scared of AI. I am interested in the ways that it can enhance my work (without taking away from it). I am also excited that the introduction of AI has placed a new value on having good taste - maybe my liberal arts degree and years working in creative industries will finally pay off, ha!

FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

I just got a vintage Hermes Garden Party tote on The Real Real and I am obsessed with it.

This t-shirt from Studio Nicholson I got in Japan

My coworking membership at The Malin in Soho changed my life!

My red leather notebook/planner from Paper Republic

This lip blush from Merit

www.ChristinaHolevas.com

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Emilia Petrarca is a native New Yorker who writes Shop Rat the shopping newsletter, and has been writing about fashion and culture professionally for over a decade. She was Senior Fashion Writer at The Cut at New York magazine, and before that W Magazine as well as working with Garance Doré (The French Woman) and Leandra Medine of Man Repeller (and The Cereal Aisle).

What does “working hard” mean to you? Putting in the effort to make whatever you’re doing the best it can be. This requires focus, which I think should be measured in quality, not quantity. An hour of pure focus requires just as much effort, if not more, than a day’s worth of messing around.

When I was younger, I wanted to be …. I’ve pretty much always wanted to be a writer. There was a brief period where I thought I wanted to be an architect (that’s what my dad did), but then I realized you need to be good at math, so that was out. Then I wanted to be a photographer, and took summer courses at Parsons and RISD, but realized you need to spend hours a day on Photoshop, so that was out, too. And here I am.

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The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today I’m about to turn 34, so I’ve been doing this for a solid amount of time. Maybe some people assume I’m younger? That would be nice lol. Because I grew up in New York, I started interning at fashion magazines when I was home from college over the summer and living at my mom’s house. So I’ve been working in the industry in some way since 2011.

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The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self? No one cares that you got a B.

A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me…

My mom always told me that learning what you don’t want to do is just as important as learning what you do what to do. That’s remained true my whole career. When I went freelance, a fellow independent journalist told me: “You’re a business now. Every time you make a decision, ask yourself: Is this good for my business?” It was another valuable perspective shift that I needed to hear.

A career highlight for me was….

Getting my work in The New Yorker! I love writing “Talks of the Town,” and worked a longer piece for the website last year.

The thing I miss most about pre–social media days…

I would say social media has had a net positive influence on my life. I don’t really long for the days before it. Even when I was in middle school, or whatever, it was a thrilling way to interact with my crushes.

Someone who has been a mentor to me is …

Mentors in the industry come and go; the one steadfast person is my mom, a former journalist and educator with a strong sense of ambition and ethics. I always trust her advice.

The best team that I have worked with was…. And why!

I loved my time working at the Cut. Being surrounded by such ambitious, intelligent, funny, creative women in my twenties was such a blessing.

Something I’m most excited about right now is… Taking time off.

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FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY RIGHT NOW

Decorating my new apartment with my boyfriend.

Photos of my friends’ babies.

Spring flowers.

Eating ice cream before dinner.

Moderately challenging crosswords.

www.emiliapetrarca.com

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Hi! I’m Jensen. I’m an editorial, film and indie VIP stylist based in NYC.

I focus my time and energy on making editorials and films with like minded creatives. When I’m not “working hard” on my styling career- I’m working on my newsletter To Live and Die in Miu Miu, water coloring Miu Miu collections, collecting archival Miu Miu & Prada, and traveling the world with my husband.

The definition of “working hard” has morphed over the years for me. I started working (hard) at the age of 14, and haven’t stopped. I grew up in a small area in the midwest, outside of Chicago. I was lucky enough to travel from a very young age, as my dad always lived in other places. I’ve been on airplanes since the womb, and traveled to Germany to visit my father at the ripe age of 3. I think this really shaped how I viewed the world, knowing there was so much more out there. I traveled alone from the age of 8. When you are that young, strangers (adults) will chat to you, and it totally cracked my world open to other ways of living.

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Experiencing the world at such a young age created a fire in me from before I can remember, guiding me to working my way out of my home town. ‘Working hard’ meant working to go see more of what I was exposed to so young. In my college years this meant working to make a name for myself. I studied at Parsons School of Design and quickly found myself in a Devil Wears Prada position as a first assistant to a celebrity stylist for a few years.

‘Working hard’ then meant to put myself and my needs aside, for the greater success of the company. Present day, I would say ‘working hard’ means showing up fully, present and prepared. It really does take a village, and I want to make sure I am always on my A-game. I am not so concerned about making a name for myself these days. I’m always working towards opportunities that align with what excites me, opportunities that I can see myself in, and working with creatives. I much more enjoy the process of creating and enjoying what I am doing with my time. I’d say to work hard, is to show up as yourself - well rested, well groomed, and a good attitude.

When I grew up, I wanted to be … Famous. (Insert glitter text here)

I didn’t know for what, but I was obsessed with the idea of fame. I would practice my autograph and everything. I used to sign things, give them out and tell people “this will be worth something someday!” I was quite extroverted and a big fish, small pond. I could not relate less to this now - LOL.

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I grew up like most Americans, pay check to pay check, in the middle of nowhere. I somehow got into Parsons School of Design (With only $14 to my name!) and through grit, great people & hard work, I am living my quite literal dream. I think my younger self would shit her pants if she got to see where we are today.

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If I could tell my 16 year old self anything?

Speaking of the young lady! I would tell her to take a deep breath. Be less critical of yourself and others. All the weird and wonderful things you are drawn to are shaping your point of view, which one day, you will make a living from. Keep rewatching musicals (especially the Elvis ones), listening to sad songs, experimenting with how you dress, carrying a bug catcher as a purse to parties, and keep your heart open.

It’s not a weakness and it will bring you where you need to be. Oh, and maybe pay more attention in school and less attention on boys... You don’t meet anyone worthwhile until your twenties anyways!

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A motto that has always stayed with me? My lovely husband has talked me off many ledges. It’s hard not to take things personal in the creative industry. If you aren’t getting booked it is quite literally you. Instead of spiraling with doom, I tend to live by “Stay in your lane.” You only need to worry about keeping your car in your own lane, and keeping your eyes ahead on the road. Everyone’s road looks different. You won’t get anywhere by weaving in and out of other peoples lanes, so to speak. What works is staying consistent and chugging along. Things don’t normally happen overnight. Which brings me to my next motto from my lovely hubby ‘Tom Brady it’. I’m married to a football loving, New York boy. He likes to remind me that Tom Brady started off average, but he kept his head down and worked hard (everyday).

For life, my mother has always said ‘Believe only half of what you see, and nothing what you hear.”

A career highlight for me was the short film I styled at The Whitney museum, called Talk Show, written and directed by Jordan Strafer. I still can’t fully wrap my head around it. My name is on a plaque and everything...so very cool... a very pinch me moment.

The thing I miss most about pre-social media days was that people were less on their phones. The iphone is so ugly and not very cinematic. Eye contact is gone, quiet moments are now filled with fidgeting around on social apps. Even now, as I type this in a cafe, the five people here are all scrolling on their phones. What’s the point of going out, if we are living digitally? And don’t even get me started on how it looks onscreen...

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On mentors: I find myself hanging on the words of people I am obsessing over. I’m a pisces moon, so I am quite dreamy and emotional.. ergh, dramatic. I’ve kept a few quotes close to my chest. One I always seem to come back to is a quote from a favorite film of mine, Vicky Cristina Barcelona. “Life is dull, life is full of pain.” & Marina Abramovics, something along the lines of “The audience will kill you if you let them.” Some other “mentors” along the years have been Lykee Li (Youth Novels era) Miuccia Prada, Gabriela Hearst, Jean Luc Godard, he is very fussy, he’s great, and Jonathan Anderson is full of inspiring tidbits. I can’t not mention my husband here too. He’s my best mirror, motivator and keeps me grounded.

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On the best team I have worked with: Not necessarily a team. But styling and working with director and the writer of After The Hunt, Nora Garrett really healed something inside of me. I usually swear off red carpet and press dressing, but getting to know and work with Nora was such a pleasure and changed the way I approach celebrity styling. She is really inspiring, kind and warm. I’m super grateful we connected. I was able to pull a designer I had been lusting after, Giovanna Flores. Nora wore an older design of hers to the London premiere of After The Hunt. My dream team!!

Something I’m most excited about right now, is this next chapter. I will be 33 this month (angel number) and I am so excited for what is to come. I’m hoping to plant roots with a magazine as a fashion editor. Just editing in general. It’s something that comes naturally to me and I really enjoy it. I’ll be working on short-form content this year too, practicing my directing skills. I’d love to direct a film one day. And styling a Neon or A24 film would scratch an itch too. I have lots and lots of creative endeavors on the horizon. I guess while I’m at it, I’m most excited to go to the Miu Miu & Prada show. Consider this my official plea!

THINGS BRINGING ME JOY RIGHT NOW

These Completed Works earrings I picked up in London. The most I have casually dropped on any jewelry. I was so wrapped up in the moment and before I knew it I was leaving the showroom with fresh water pearls!

My closet I am someone who dresses. I wear everything I own, and love everything I own. I grew up not understanding myself and it really reflected in my closet and wardrobe choices. At 32, I feel like I have the closet I have always dreamed of!

The Real Real I have to give them a shout out. I would not have the closet of my dreams if it was not for them. I live, breathe, eat TRR. I’ve been buying a lot of “joy” this year already.... Here are some things on my wishlist: Miu Miu Bonnet, Miu Miu Cat Eye Sunglasses, Miu Miu 2003 floral set, Black Miu Miu bag, Prada pearl earrings, Prada 2012 jacket

Reading! I really enjoy world building and narrative driven work. I’ve been reading a lot more lately, and I find my ideas are bursting at the seams. My favorites are history, anthropology, and philosophy. I’ve been wanting to read a few biographies too. Like Anjelica Huston’s - Watch Me and Elliot Page’s - Pageboy

Building recipes I’ve been vegan for 15 years and I make most of our food from scratch. It’s a very therapeutic and a creative process I enjoy. I’ve started to be more selective with my time and the jobs I take on, which has provided more time for myself. I’ve been enjoying eating by season, the range of colors from produce, and the dishes I’ve been creating. Lots of joy!

Bonus extras:

Little Book of Miu Miu by

Glossier Lipstick

Araks Bra

A Version of Jensen’s Simone Rocha shoes

My mother’s art has been bringing the most joy to my life. Watching her grow and change and become a stronger woman through her art practice has been super inspiring and fulfilling to see. She has an incredible way to incorporate emotion into her paintings, and they really move me.

Plus…. Jensen’s recommendations on where to eat Vegan! Tofu Vegan in London, Cocoron Vegan Ramen NYC, Panda Panda Paris and Kitchen Mouse LA

www.jensenedmondson.com

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See our other interviews: Alessandra Codinha, Lynette Nylander, Eliana Rodriguez, Dana Boulos, Seana Redmond

I’m a writer based in LA. Since I moved west a few years ago I’ve been covering all the best people and places for publications like Vogue, Architectural Digest, Instyle, as well as for my substack Here We Go

What does “working hard” mean to you? Giving something your all, particularly if it doesn’t come easily to you. (And not complaining about it.)

Cover stories - Vogue & L’Officiel - Hailey Bieber, Billie Eilish, Ayo Edebiri &

When I grew up I wanted to be a veterinarian and an Egyptologist. At the same time.

The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today is that many of the paths I took to find my way (unpaid internships, gigs for small publications, etc) no longer exist. Though I guess that’s more depressing than unexpected.

The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self is: oh my god, pay more attention in class. You’ll wake up in 20 years and wish you could go sit in those lectures just for fun.

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A motto that has always stayed with me, less a motto than a funny thing I heard in my early 20s which has continued to be relevant “if you can’t get out of it, get into it.”

A career highlight for me was going on a reporting trip to Inner Mongolia and sleeping in a yurt in the Gobi desert.

The thing I miss most about pre–social media days? I maintain that we were never supposed to know this much about this many other people. I miss when the internet was reached via a dedicated room in the house that you went to, and when you left that room, you left it there. That feels like the appropriate relationship to have, versus in your back pocket / bedside table / eyeglasses… (Do not come near me with those glasses.)

Someone who has been a mentor to me is Sally Singer! The best to ever do it.

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I’ve learned something valuable from every team that I’ve worked with - even (especially?) the not so great ones, even if it’s just what not to do - but there was a bright shining moment at Vogue under Sally when the digital team was like 40-plus people deep and turning out some truly incredible work, whether it was sending our reporters to cover the 2016 political conventions or the protests at Standing Rock or running essays from victims of gun violence in partnership with Everytown or doing an incredibly fun fashion film at couture with Celine Dion. (The fashion films alone were just always so good.) It was such a deep bench of true talent working together to reach a common goal - that sense of all rowing in the same direction (and with such rowers!) was thrilling, and it really felt like anything was possible. (Not a common feeling in media these days!) I also loved the team at the original print Departures (RIP!) which was small but mighty and had consistently just the best taste in everything.

Something I’m most excited about right now is my son, Woody. He’s 5 1/2 months old and just the best. However much people told me having him was going to change my life, it’s changed my life significantly more than that.

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FIVE THINGS CURRENTLY BRINGING ME JOY

This Beaba baby food maker which makes feeding the babe feel like a Michelin-level kitchen.

The world’s best everyday earring, by Sherman Field

The famous magical highbrow hippie hair mask

Really nice (silky, good-at-all-temps, and good for the planet) bedding is really helpful for morale.

Espresso tonics, but specifically a drink called “The Xtina” at the wonderful cafe Chainsaw, pictured above, here in LA.

www.alessandracodinha.com

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What do you do now? Quite a lot of things. But I work as the Executive Digital Director of Harper’s Bazaar and creatively consult for brands and projects

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What does “working hard” mean to you? It’s definitely inherent. I don’t really know any other way to be. I find it intimidating but exciting.

“When I grew up I wanted to be …. a chiropractor or working somewhere in fashion.

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The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self is… How everything you think is possible is. And being adult is wild, but much better than being a teenager.

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A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me… What is for you won’t go by you.

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A career highlight for me was moving to New York, it cracked me world wide open.

The thing I miss most about pre–social media days… Things not feeling completely up for grabs all the time and no cameras.

Someone who has been a mentor to me? Every Black woman who did something and succeeded.

Something I’m most excited about right now is… hmmmm time off in the Summer!

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FIVE THINGS CURRENTLY BRINGING ME JOY

My ceramics classes at Greenwich House Pottery

The tulips starting to grow in my garden

Matthieu Blazy’s CHANEL

My Substack

My new Santa Maria Novella Tabacco Toscano Candle

www.lynettenylander.com

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I am . I run Gil Rodriguez, I mother a toddler, and I write.

What does “working hard” mean to you? Ooof. I’ve spent a long time deconstructing this one. We live in a hyper-capitalist patriarchy, and a lot of our ideas about good work are based on a man’s physiology, lifestyle, values. Working hard in the way I used to understand it, in that it was the path to a good life, to achieving your dreams, feels like a trap.

It is so easy to abandon yourself, the things that matter to you. Working smart, working collaboratively, working with intention and clarity, and also rest and silence as part of work, as something productive, is I think, critical to my creative work.

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When I grew up I wanted to be a ballgown designer and a pop star.

The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today is that I often favored intuition over strategy.

The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self Your voice, your time, your body, they’re sacred and they’re yours. Use them, enjoy them, but don’t ever give yourself away.

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A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me When stuck between a rock and a hard place, be water.

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A career highlight for me was opening my store, and launching my substack ! Both beginnings that required a lot of courage.

The thing I miss most about pre–social media days is my time. The space in between things used to belong to us. Now we just give it away.

Someone who has been a mentor to me is my grandmother (below)

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The best team that I have worked with was my family. Raising a child is a team effort like no other, and you’re only as strong as the people who share that goal and carry that responsibility alongside you.

Something I’m most excited about right now - I’m working on a book! Don’t ask me what it’s about, I’m still finding out. But I’m excited!

FIVE THINGS BRINGING ME JOY

The Elsa Peretti pen my partner got me when I started publishing my writing.

Dry brushing in morning sunlight (so you can see all the dead skin come off!) This one by Goop is by far the best.

The new season of Shrinking, a wholesome break we all need and deserve.

This Grace Kelly-inspired top that doubles as the hat and scarf I always forget.

These Falke socks for a pop of color

www.gilrodriguez.com

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I’m Dana Boulos, I’m a film director, photographer and DJ. My practice sits at the intersection of image, sound, and storytelling, informed by fashion, beauty and music.

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The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today is how nonlinear the path has been. None of the steps felt connected at the time, but looking back, each one refined my perspective. I moved through many roles, from working retail, casting consultant, costume designer for films, owning a consulting agency, assisting a CEO, hiring manager, and an extra in music videos. Each chapter added a layer to my understanding of people, systems, and images.

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The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self is ‘EVERYTHING ALWAYS WORKS OUT’. Stay curious, trust your instincts, work hard, and things will unfold in their own time.

What does “working hard” mean to you?
Staying consistent when no one is watching. Showing up prepared, following through, protecting the quality of the work, and making decisions with intention... even when it would be easier not to.

When I grew up, I wanted to be an artist. I didn’t always know the medium, but I always knew I wanted to build worlds and tell stories visually.

A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me - Never give up, no matter what.

A career highlight for me was making my first short film, Crimson Rose, in 2016. It was when I fully trusted my instincts and stepped into directing with clarity and focus. I was hands-on throughout the entire process, from writing and visual development to execution, editing, and production, and I worked closely with financiers and casting.

What made it truly meaningful was collaborating with friends who believed in me and in the vision. Building that sense of community, everyone showing up to help bring the film to life, was incredibly powerful and confirmed my commitment to directing.

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Someone who has been a mentor to me? I’ve learned from the people who’ve crossed my life and from books, especially biographies of artists I admire. What stands out most is discipline, taste, and integrity, shown through the work itself rather than how it’s talked about. Nadine Labaki and Sofia Coppola are two women I’ve always admired, filmmakers who have remained fiercely committed to their vision and brought it to life.

What often goes unspoken is how constant the struggle is as a female director to get a film made and to push your ideas forward. That reality exists regardless of accolades or recognition, Oscar or not. Watching women persist, protect their voice, and make the work happen anyway has deeply shaped how I move through this industry.

It’s hard to pinpoint the best team I’ve worked with, because every team brings something different. Each collaboration teaches me new lessons, challenges my perspective, and pushes the work in unexpected ways. I genuinely love working with people on a range of projects: film, photography, and music, because the exchange of ideas keeps the process alive. The best teams are those that trust, are curious, and share a commitment to creating something meaningful together.

Something I’m most excited about right now? I’m working on a few projects shhhh!!! I can’t speak about them yet <3 … but soon.

FIVE THINGS CURRENTLY BRINGING ME JOY

Luna, my dog

Going to see a movie at the Los Feliz 3 for the American Cinematheque programming, especially the restored films.

Reading, I love spending time at Stories Books & Cafe, getting lost in a book.

A staycation at Chateau Marmont, a special place in my heart, where you never know who you’ll run into.

Laying out at the pool, the perfect time to just slow down, get some sun, and reset.

www.danaboulos.com

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Hello, I’m Seana Redmond

I’m an Art Director and multi-disciplinary creative. I work with individuals and brands in shaping ideas, refining concepts, and crafting distinctive narrative. Most recently, I launched a monthly newsletter called Liminal Space where I share musings, rituals, interviews and creative updates that explore the space between where you are and where you would like to be.

What does “working hard” mean to you? I’ve always been passionate and tenacious, it’s in my nature. What I’ve learned above all is that it’s about consistency: small daily actions that move the needle while letting go of the final outcome and enjoying the process. I always say ‘consistency isn’t a sexy word but it gets sexy results’. When you find something you love, the working hard part becomes a lot easier, that’s when you find your flow state. Discover something that you love doing so much that even if you weren’t paid for doing it, you would still be doing it… if you can make a living from that, you have hit the jack-pot.

The process won’t always be easy, sometimes you will feel like you are going backwards but it’s often a sign that you’re at the bottom of your next level. Cultivate supportive friends with similar passions along the way; help to lift each other up and support one another, it will then be the most rewarding journey. If something is feeling very hard to the point of depletion, almost like you are pushing against a stream and not in your flow, then sometimes it can be a sign that this isn’t your true path. The way to tell is if you are energised by it, even though it will involve hard work at times you will feel fulfilled and inspired, it should fuel you. It’s also important to play hard too and enjoy life!

When I grew up I wanted to be …. So many things, in my ‘Human Design’, I’m a ‘Manifesting Generator’ which means I love to pivot, experiment and try new things. My path is most definitely nonlinear. It was always going to be something in the arts, whether that was a singer, dancer, actress, artist or designer. It was always about self-expression through creativity.

The most unexpected thing about how I got where I am today? It’s only when you look back and reflect that you begin to connect the dots and understand the journey. I can see that for every rejection along the way, it was divine protection and re-direction. I’m not sure anything is unexpected about my path in many ways, I have always followed what lights me up and inspires me, I don’t tend to grip to the outcome in my creative pursuits. I follow my intuition, and I’ve learnt to listen to it more as I get older, for most of us, that comes with age and growing in confidence. I will say when I turned 30, I noticed more flow in my work, I learnt that I work best when I’m given freedom, environments that are restrictive and formal stifle my creativity and ideas.

The one thing I wish I could tell my 16-year-old self is to stop comparing yourself to others and don’t be so hard on yourself. Your sensitivity is your superpower and why you are a creative. Channel this into your ideas and creative expression, turn your struggles into purpose, learn to make the best of the cards life had dealt you. We are in a world that values the material, structure and linear progression; however you are not linear you are part of nature which moves in cycles, patterns and seasons of hibernation followed by growth and new life. Trust your journey and also go out and have more fun with your girl friends and boys too… ;)

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A (work or life) motto that has always stayed with me is something my Dad said to me; ‘Learn to consider your life in its totality of what you want to achieve and what success looks like for you, and then go make it happen’. Most importantly, find joy in your day wherever possible, life moves fast, it’s not a rehearsal, share your kindness with everyone including yourself.

I also love author and activist Marianne Williamson’s sentiment: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are powerful beyond measure. By embracing our light, we inspire others to do the same.”

The thing I miss most about pre–social media days… I love what social media has enabled in many ways, it has democratised access. We can all share our creativity freely, reach out to anyone that inspires us that we may have never been able to before. All tools are neutral until directed, it’s the intention and consciousness we apply that gives it meaning. However, I do miss people’s attention spans. In a world that is now about immediacy, quantity over quality can be problematic. Slowing down and creating empty space is important for creativity and for ideas to flow. I also miss ‘Top of the Tops Pops’ on a Friday night and the Sunday radio count down for the number one song of the week lol.

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Someone who has been a mentor to me is most definitely my friend and creative collaborator Francesca Burns. Fran is an amazing creative, stylist, consultant, publisher as well as a nutritionist and now also a life coach. I truly believe it takes just one person to help us to see ourselves clearly and she is that person for me. Since the beginning, she has been there supporting and inspiring me in so many ways. No one gets to the top alone, every success is a mosaic of invisible contributions. Her generosity is like no other and she lifts all women within her orbit.

The best team I’ve worked with is the one I’m part of now. I’m the creative director and co-creator of Nina, a holistic creative studio I built with my friend Elle. It grew from a shared desire for deeper connection and has evolved into a space where conscious creativity meets meaningful collaboration.

I have cultivated beautiful relationships with women I work with who inspire me. This is what brings me most joy. For me, creating with your friends really is living the dream, we get to work on projects together and share our ideas whilst building something meaningful together. We lift each other up and we see the magic in one another - we all need reminding in times of self-doubt.

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Something I’m most excited about right now: I recently published a book titled ‘All of Us Stars’ which is the works of the forgotten about 70s photographer called Bobby Busnach. It has taken almost 9 years and it’s finally here. Seeing it in my favourite bookstores in both London and NYC feels like a full circle amoment. After years of referencing from photography books, I have finally edited one. It’s been a great reminder of following your intuition. Everything that sparks a passion inside of you is encouraging you to follow it.

FIVE THINGS CURRENTLY BRINGING ME JOY

So much brings me joy … here are my current obsessions:

Vyrao The Sixth fragrance (above) it smells so good; sensual, light and anchoring at the same time.

Music and going to gigs with friends always brings me joy, it’s pure escapism. I loved Fred Again’s energy, it was contagious.

Art and photography galleries always inspire me, I really love Grace Mews Gallery and the events as well as community they have cultivated.

I’m definitely in my health and holistic era, browsing for wellness and beauty products brings me joy, I love the Happier Grocer, Healf and Cap Beauty for trustworthy finds.

Travel, adventures with friends and a hot guy, sun and nature always brings me joy and helps me reignite my creativity. I intend to do more of it this year...Costa Rica is on my wish list and I’d love to stay here!

www.seanaredmond.com

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A motto that I always come back to was on a poster in a boss’ office which read: “Work hard and be nice to people”, seeing this notion that ambition and kindness don’t have to be mutually exclusive has stuck ever since.

We will invite guests to share their stories, advice or motto’s that have stuck with them, celebrating non-traditional paths, the people and experiences that have shaped them.

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