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Read more from the Dec Issue
It's another week of Project Runway Jr and in this week's challenges, contestants broke off into pairs to showcase Avant Garde looks. It's always hard when people work together (especially when you're not used to it) - but one partner that has been great in each episode is beauty sponsor, Butter London. You can see some of the products that were available for the winning look below.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Project Runway Junior
We sat down with Emmy Winning journalist, E! News Correspondent and TV Personality, Zuri Hall. We chatted with her about family, her recent partnership to shed a light on MS, what awards season is like and her sense of style, as well as staying balanced in the industry.
ATHLEISURE MAG: You're a busy lady! As we know you're constantly on air, we'd like to know about your connection to this survey about MS.
ZURI HALL: I was excited to partner with Genentech as my Aunt was diagnosed with MS 3 years ago and for me, it was my first personal connection to the disease. I had done a human interest story about this for a local news story – so I was getting a little familiar. But it wasn’t until it hits home that you started to say, “what does this mean, what does it do.”
So she was diagnosed and over the last few years her symptoms have delveloped and progressed, and unfortunately, have gotten worse. When I partnered with Genentech, we found that MS Mindset Survey – a lot of their findings reflected what I was seeing my aunt go through when it came to her symptoms. My big takeaway from the survey was the unpredictability of MS symptoms. Some of the things she is dealing with is wobbly legs. Sometimes it's cognitive issues, blurred vision, and she’s hit with fatigue. So she knows roughly what she’s dealing with, but she doesn’t know when they will pop up. So since it is so unpredictable, it’s hard to know or plan around those things whether you are directly dealing with it or are the caregiver that is involved. You can’t plan a week in advance when you have no guarantee of how you will be feeling tomorrow.
So one of the big findings was that about 85% of those with MS have said that they have missed social engagements because their symptoms have come into play when they didn't think that they would. 87% oddly enough, a higher percentage of support partners and caregivers, have also missed out on events because their partner had a flare up or had an issue.
For example, my aunt told me that she went to a baseball game once and it was a big venue, so while she was excited to go out with your co-workers and friends she had to commit to it. She gets to the field and then 30 minutes in she realized she had to go because she sensed that she had issues with her wobbly legs as they had been giving out over the previous days and that anxiety of not knowing if that would happen during the game was something that she was dealing with. She would rather remove herself completely from this social situation that she was looking forward to then risking something that she couldn’t predict to happen during the game and having to explain herself or to create a socially awkward situation to those that were there. There are also issues with urinary problems, like not being able to control your bladder – she’s nervous when it hits, then she has to go. For her, it’s not just about being awkward for her but she doesn’t want it to be weird for others and having to have them figure out how to talk about her disease. She is an independent, small and feisty woman and we love her. So it’s interesting to see how this disease begins to dictate the social decisions that she makes.
Another finding that this survey focused on is the day to day activities which hits home for us. She is the person who loves to host and she has a beautiful home that she has decorated with love and she invites all these people and we are a massive group. Brothers, sisters, cousins and more – we come over, she cooks, and cleans. She is the domestic goddess as well as a corporate goddess. Nowadays, this is really hard for her. We’re going home for Thanksgiving and I don't know why she is going to do this, but she wants to do all the things that she has always wanted to do. She loves hosting our family and dinners. I love her because she refuses to let this disease get the best of her but it does steer the decisions that she has to make leading up to doing so. For me, I look inside and figure out what I can do to support her to make things easier.
One of the findings in the survey was that more than 80% of the people that live with MS were asked how they could be helped and what service could be offered to them, the top takeaway was that they wanted someone to help them with groceries, in the kitchen, household chores, etc. I think a lot of us, me included, underestimate the impact that this can make. You sit back and say, “really you just want me to put a box of cereal away for you?” But for someone who is dealing with fatigue and is exhausted – it helps. She has told me that mixing a bowl of dressing for more than a few minutes tires her out depending on the day. Her muscles don’t do what they used to do and they don’t act the way they used to.
There was a time when she visited me in LA this summer. She was teaching me how to make her baked bean recipe and she went to check on it in the oven and accidently flipped the pan and the beans went everywhere. It was sad because she was frustrated in that moment and she doesn’t want to show signs to the disease and we had had amazing days together with her husband (my uncle) and everything was fine and things were great. It felt great as you know she had the disease, but you felt like not really and then it comes out and reminds you. It lets you know that it could happen at anytime and you have to deal with it.
Some of the things that I want to encourage other people to do is to be patient and understand what your loved one is going through and the symptoms. This way, when it happens you know what they are going through and you can be considerate. When the beans happened, there was a moment when I thought about the beans, but then I had to remember this is what my aunt is going through because we’re not at a point where there are daily constant reminders. I caught myself and knew it was beyond her control and so I came from a place of love and patience and I let her know that I would clean it up and we’ll buy more beans, take a seat etc – it let’s her feel more comfortable and less of an awkward situation. I don’t want her to feel that she is a burden and it helps. She says that she feels like it is her own burden to bear as she doesn’t want people to pity her. But I have found that offering my help and services in specific ways – she takes me up on those offers.
During the holidays I will be offering to put the dishes away, to run out to Kroger or the grocery story to get something that she has forgotten. I will say, "Aunt Mel, take a rest." I was talking with one of our nurses yesterday and she was saying that the big things to keep in mind that asking “what do you need” is not enough as it’s so open ended. For fiercely independent people they don’t want to give you a laundry list. But when they are specific asks it helps and gives them the time. Plus we take this for granted.
The survey, after diving in, lets me see how much the findings there are mirroring my aunt’s experience as well as my own. With the holidays here, this encourages support partners and caregivers to be more proactive during this time as well as all year around.
AM: What is your partnership like in terms of your role in this initiative?
ZH: For me the partnership is about this moment, this time and getting people to understand the results of the MS Mindset survey. Don’t just end there with the info, but this survey is telling you what people with MS need and let’s do something about it. It's about sitting down and encouraging support partners/cargivers to what they can. Many times, you forget about the other party. There is a person who is there dealing with MS and so of course you’re not thinking about the support person; however, they are there and they need to be educated. People should go to your local support groups, advocacy groups and learn more via National MS Society.
AM: Obviously, I was aware of MS, but not the depth of it until a few months ago, when I styled one of my clients who is an entertainer and although she performs, is on stage etc – behind the scenes there are a lot of struggles. It’s amazing that she is able to stay on tour, hit the road, dance etc with the unpredictable nature of this disease!
ZH: When I sat down with Tamia (R&B Singer) who is very public about her disease, so many people are dealing with this and we are all so close by just a few degrees to someone who is. It’s ok to know that you don’t have everything figured out as you can’t really prepare for it as things get dumped in your lap. But to know there are resources is the most important thing. There is education to be had across the board from those with MS and those who support or are the caregivers to someone who is.
AM: What was your journey to get to E!?
ZH: Getting to E! was a long winding road. I started out winning a competition to be the face of a local TV station in Indiana. I was there for a year and MC’ing for the Pacers and then that opened the door to another job in Ohio and I was hosting another show which allowed me to anchor the evening news down in Texas and that got me to NY to host a show for Fuse (music countdown show), which led to MTV and then E! It was all over the map. The last year and 3 months at E! have been like the best. They chal-lenge me in really good ways. My skillset makes sense for what they need and what they want. Everyday is different. We just launched a new daytime show, E! News Live recently. Exciting times.
AM: How do you prepare for your celeb interviews?
ZH: It’s really about – I mean for us being that we’re E! and they’re celebs, so we want the scoop. I tend to know a lot about their personal lives and what is going on. Because I come from a creative background I actually really appreciate the art in what they are creating and what they are there to talk about. I feel that most celebs, musicians, etc appreciate and recognize those that appreciate and recognize that. So they are more likely to open up about the extra stuff if they believe that you care about the stuff that you should be caring about, and I do. So my preparation is understanding what the film is about, why they took on a certain project – have they had past ones that led them to this point and what it took for them to get into a certain character. Reading any article or interview surrounding that project before I talk to them. Because the last thing that they want to do it to regurgitate the same thing that they have said about 73 times during that junket. They want to be challenged and sparked and they get excited. They’re working but they prefer to enjoy it and it makes it fun!
AM: And for the Red Carpet?
ZH: Red Carpet is chaos and I just get stressed when I think about it. It’s one of those things that you do as much as you can and then you just throw it out the window – you go with the flow. You have so much talent – Brad Pitt for one second and then you have Angelina Joli and you have her and all these people bottle necked. As you talk to Brad, you have George Clooney walk by and the publicist is pulling people and you only have a few questions that you can ask as you’re getting wrapped as you start. It's a high pressure situation. So it’s one of those things that it’s just like I know a little bit about a lot – so you go with the flow, you make moments as you can’t really tackle issues there. You just want people to toast champagne with you or to make a joke or slip up and say something silly. Carpets are about moments and they make great content for the internet.
AM: How do you stay balanced during this season?
ZH: For me I need to get more into the fitness side, I'll be honest – I’m lazy and I have my mom’s genes which works for me. I am getting to that point where you feel it - you walk up the stairs and realize that it takes more time than before - just a moment guys. So I go to the gym with my boyfriend every now and then as he is healthy. For me, it’s about mental health honestly and I’m really into and value mindfulness and trying to be present and balanced. I’m reading a book right now – 'Present over Perfect' because especially in my line of work I am open to public scrutiny and waiting for people to judge you, Instagram you etc. You post a photo I’m waiting for comments, likes etc. I go on E! News I’m going to get tweets from people - maybe they liked what I wore, what I said about Rhianna etc and you get caught up with not being in that moment. We do these carpets and awards shows and I have to look back and say wow you were at the Oscars – my pictures tell me what my last year has been. I have started to dedicate time for me. I will carve out 60 minutes to say I’m busy so that I can not be busy and take time for me – mindfulness above all so that I can be happy/peaceful, whether it's taking time to read or whatever it takes to get to my happy place.
AM: What is your personal style versus what you wear on the show which we love?
ZH: Thank you! I would say that personal style is casual chic - I know that that sounds generic! I'm a midwest girl through in through - I'm from Ohio and I like to be super comfortable, you will never see me wearing heels that I don't have to be wearing. Because comfort over everything is key for me. So I'm a jeans and T-shirt girl. I feel the most confident and sexy and in control when I am in a fitted pair of high wasted jeans with a loose v-neck t-shirt and bootie. If you see me in a bootie, then you know that I'm trying. If I'm not on a red carpet, I'm in sneakers at this point.
I would say overall, E! News - Urban Chic with a dash of glam. My style is very much influenced by my years in NY as I was here for about 2.5/3 years. So definitely I appreciate the leathers and dark colors. I appreciate the black on black on black. My stylist is convincing me to put color back into my wardrobe.
For the glam, I'm in LA now - come on it's E!, The Kardashians you have to have a bit of glam. I like to do the full face, the hair, I let my glam come through in this area. The clothes tend to be more timeless, chic and classic.
For the most part, I'm pretty chill and for the most part I LITERALLY love athleisure and I'm not just saying that because you're here as I don't work out. But I just discovered gym wear and it's a whole new world! I just discovered Fabletics and I love Kate Hudson's line. I tried it for the first time when I met her and I was like, "this jumpsuit is amazing." I can move and I'm so free! So they sent me more stuff and now I just pretty much live in athletic wear.
AM: We always say that athleisure can be broken down into core, essential and luxe. Core is that which is meant to hit the gym (sport bras, tap shorts, etc), essential items that are a hybrid that can be worn in the gym and out (the capris, tanks, etc mixed with layers or not) and then luxe which are the jetset components that include your leggings paired with a fun cashmere and a leather jacket which allows you to hit the ground running once you touch down.
ZH: Absolutely - so many ways to style it and again it's so comfortable. At this point in my life, comfort is key girl!
AM: We love your #AlphaBabe movement. We're a huge proponent of it but can you tell our readers about this and what made you want to do it?
ZH: For me when I first have a vision for #AlphaBabe, I wanted a place where young millennial women could go to support one another and to develop tools where they could navigate the first few years of their career.
I got where I got to by the grace of God and stumbling into things and figuring it out as it went. Looking back, I felt like it didn't have to be that hard honestly. If there had been just one person to tell me about the right way to make a demo reel, to craft a resume, or the right way to go to my boss' office to ask for a raise - certain things would have been easier.
For me it is a place where we can celebrate substance and style. You don't have to choose. That's what I'm trying to get across with the message. You can be Alpha and strong and unapologetic as a leader - a boss in your work environment and you can totally be a babe. There is nothing wrong in saying that. You're pretty, you can style yourself up and these two things can co-exist. That's exciting when you find that balance and it doesn't need to be one vs the other which is really hard in a culture of comparison (via social) where people tend to focus on the babe part. At the end of the day the likes, re-tweets - it doesn't really matter. This is a place where you can be both and it's great to be so!
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Zuri Hall
Read More from the Dec Issue
The Wellness space continues to change with innovations, its players, and new findings. With so many offerings out there, you want to enjoy what you've been using and doing but it's also nice to check out what is the upcoming trend. We took some time to talk with mindbodygreen's Founder and CEO Jason Wachob about how he came into the space, his company and their Annual Wellness Trend Report 2017 (as seen recently on Dr. Oz). Following this interview, we talked with some of the people and brands that he highlighted to share with you as we head into 2017 with this new knowledge.
ATHLEISURE MAG: Can you tell us about your background and what led you to creating MindBodyGreen?
JASON WACHOB: I am 42, I played basketball at Columbia a long time ago and became an equities trader. This was the 90’s, there were no startups. I always joke that people did one of these three things when you graduated, if you had really good grades and wanted to help people, you became a doctor or you went to law school and if you were looking to increase your wealth, you went to Wall Street – which is what I did. I quickly found that money did not buy happiness as 9/11 happened – I was a block away when it happened. I left and became an entrepreneur. I worked at a few startups that didn’t work and I found myself flying 150K miles domestically in one year.
An old basketball injury compounded with stress (I’m 6’7” in a coach seat) - I had 2 discs pressing on my sciatic nerve – my right leg was like a lightening rod with excruciating pain. I went to the doctor and he said that I needed back surgery and I got a second opinion and he said the same thing. Then as an afterthought he said, “maybe yoga could help.” I started doing yoga and saw things differently by changing my sleep, environment, and nutrition. It was a big part of it and I was completely healed and never had to do surgery. I was like “holy cow” there are so many people that have things wrong and are looking to heal, lose weight, and change. There are so many ways to do this from spiritual, nutritionally, and physically – it’s all connected. So I decided to launch the site, MindBodyGreen – one word in ’09.
AM: What can readers who are first time visitors expect to get when they come to your site?
JW: I think that they will find something good for them wherever they are at in their life. I talk about those pillars: mental, physical, spiritual, emotional and environmental. Wherever you are, no matter your age, fit, whatever is going on – you will find something that resonates and inspires you to live your best life and to provide you with the content and inspiration to do so.
AM: What led you to creating the Wellness Trend Report? How many years has this been out, how do you go about finding the data and ultimately choosing what is on this list?
JW: I think we have been doing it for 5 or 6 years! It just started to become apparent that we would see things before they happened and it is a blend of art and science – looking at the data of what is trending and what people are reading combined with all the entrepreneurs that come through our office. We sometimes get the first look 6 months to a year before they come out and we have 10M readers and 5K contributors that are tapped into what is going on. This tells us what’s going to happen before it happens.
AM: Of the items that you were able to uncover, what are some of the standout trends for 2017 that stuck out to you?
JW: I think on one hand, it’s sort of interesting that sobriety is a trend and that the other one is alcohol is as well.
AM: We were struck by that too!
JW: It’s super interesting, on one hand people are not drinking and on the other hand there is this liquor which a lot of people in terms of health benefits think it’s bad. But this plant based liquor which is gluten free and has a spiritual element to it – which allows it to trend the other way. To me, it’s very interesting
AM: I liked in reading your report, that you included Daybreaker, which I have attended a few this year as I am also the Fashion Editor of DJ Mag. The first time that I went, I didn’t know what it was and couldn’t believe that attendees get up to attend a 7am party which includes dancing, yoga, etc and there is no alcohol there – it’s a wellness party – this is definitely in the trend for sobriety.
JW: Yup! It speaks to this idea that there isn’t a one size fits all for people. For some people sobriety works and for others it doesn’t.
AM: Do you feel that these trends are more apt to be seen in cities like here in NYC, LA, and Miami or that they do roll out to other cities that aren’t on the coasts?
JW: I think it tends to start on the coast, but what I have seen lately is that things are picking up in the middle of the country pretty fast. Like Atlanta is one of our fastest growing cities in terms of our audience. So I think that things start here but because wellness is seeping into the mainstream in a really big way – we talk about this in trend 11, you have some pretty big brands like Target, IHG (hotel group), and Whole Foods. The fact that you have some pretty big brands making this accessible in terms of price point, they are changing the landscape where 15 years ago this would have been exclusive to LA, San Francisco, Boulder, NYC. Things that start here but they spread pretty fast.
AM: What are the trends that you felt would be on this list but didn’t make it or do you feel that everything did make it?
JW: I think that everything we thought would be on here did make it on here. We look at a lot of stuff and we felt really good about everything that was on here.
AM: Who are some of your favorite contributors on your site in general and how do you go about selecting them?
JW: You know, I think it’s like picking your favorite child, we have so many – we have feature contributors. Anyone can be a contributor. If you’re a celebrity, a doctor or a wellness enthusiast – it’s very much so a democracy. It comes down to whether you’re sharing something that’s quality content. We don’t publish everything that we receive and we turn down way more then what we publish. To me, I don’t necessarily have any favorites as I love a number of our celebrities, doctors and enthusiasts. We love all of them but they all have unique perspectives which are equally important.
AM: What trends that are on the list are you looking to adopt into your routine now?
JW: Good question! Well, the women only spaces would not be for me as they wouldn’t allow me in. The personalized nutrition one is something that I want to try out for sure. That is interesting to me and purports my belief that there is no one size fits all aspect to wellness or to life in general. To have this amazing new science to validate that is something that I am going to test this year. Nutrition is very exciting and it really shows the future of this movement that merges east and west as there is real science saying this is why you need to eat Brussel Sprouts or on the flipside that it could be terrible for you.
AM: This is also true. In the last year alone, we have learned that there are a number of workouts, and foods that you thought were good for you and you find out that they’re not. There are so many interesting trends that are highlighted for 2017 that MBG has pointed out which you can see in the full Annual Wellness Trends Report.
We went through the Annual Wellness Trend Report and reached out to a few movers in these categories to find out more about what they are doing and why we should be aware of it.
MINDBODYGREEN ANNUAL WELLNESS TREND REPORT 2017
1. Personalized Nutrition
2. The Age of Fashion Minimalism
3. The Sobriety Movement
4. Wellness Is More Than Yoga & Meditation: It's A Sensory Experience
5. Ugly Greens Take The Spotlight As Restaurateurs & Brands Take Steps To Fight Food Waste
6. Mezcal Moves To The Top Of The Cocktail Menu
7. Communal Gathering And Women-Only Social Spaces Are The New Wave In Wellness
8. See Ya, Acai: Medicinal Mushrooms Are The New Superfood Staple
9. Infrared Saunas Are The Trendy New Spa Treatment
10. Affordable, Accessible Wellness Is Starting To Go Mainstream
11. The Ketogenic Diet Becomes The Diet Everyone's Talking About
AM: mbg listed Mezcal in its Annual Wellness Trend Report as a cocktail that is moving to the top of the cocktail menu. Tell us how you decided to embark on this particular business and what is your background in this space which ultimately created GEM&BOLT?
GEM&BOLT: We (Elliott and Adrina, co-founders) are both artists that grew up together in a bohemian outpost in the mountains of Virginia. For many years, we collaborated together as artists which eventually took form as a speakeasy in the Bay Area, which we called GEM&BOLT. We served mezcal infused with various superherbs which people loved! When we started serving mezcal with Damiana, we were amazed by the dynamic of the two together. It had perfect synergy. Our growing interest in Mezcal led us to Oaxaca to explore the origin of Mezcal and it's surrounding culture. Everything about Oaxaca stole our hearts immediately. Within two months, we closed down our California project and re-located the GEM&BOLT speakeasy to Oaxaca where we began hosting similar music and arts events. Little by little, we immersed ourselves in the world of mezcal. One day we chanced upon the origin myth of mezcal, which speaks of a lightning bolt striking the heart (gem) of the agave, roasting & fermenting it's sugars into what became known as mezcal. The serendipity prompted us to embark on a brand of our own. The whole process and growth has been very organic.
AM: How is Gem & Bolt differentiated from other alcohol offerings in the beverage space?
GB: GEM&BOLT mezcal is distilled with Damiana, a lovely herb that brings a subtle botanical element to the mezcal. Damiana is mythically believed to elevate and enhance... People call it a heart-opener.
AM: What are the benefits of Mezcal and why did you focus on this as opposed to tequila?
GB: There was never a question in my mind between mezcal and tequila as we walked down this path. Mezcal called us for it's spiritedness, it's honesty as a product. It's hand-made, with patience, integrity and intention. From the first sip to waking up the next day, you feel the cleanness of mezcal in every respect.
AM: Why is Mezcal slated to trend for 2017 in the area of wellness?
GB: By nature, as an artesanal product, mezcal is very clean and free of additives. In the same way people seek clean, high-quality food, there's a growing interest in high-quality small-batch craft spirits. For me, it goes hand-in-hand with the slow-food, farm-to-table movement. People want to know where their products come from and the story behind them.
AM: Womens-only spaces are a trend highlighted in the Annual Wellness Report. Can you tell us about your backgrounds and what led you to entering this space?
MELISSA WONG: When Sandra and I met, we were introduced because we both had our own organizations for women. She ran GIRL PARTY events, focusing on a range of topics like body + sex positivity, entrepreneurship, skill building workshops and I ran Up Speak, a peer mentorship groups for women. We met at the beginning of this year and after learning that we both believed in the power of in person gatherings, we decided to embark on a one month pop up. Eventually that month snowballed into a year-long lease after a space presented itself and we realized we wanted to grow a community beyond a months time. We each have a background in hospitality and events and had similar office based experience in tech and advertising, so we were easily able to speak the same language and get on the same page for this project.
AM: What is New Women Space?
MW: New Women Space is a project cultivation and community event space, placing the ambitions of women of all experiences at its center. We believe that through conscious event design and warm hospitality that we can help create a supportive space for women to connect with each other and grow their projects. We operate from the standpoint that women have not had equal access to resources like space, mentorship, and encouragement. We aim to help create a positive environment for women to realize all they are capable of.
AM: What are the benefits of being a member of NWS and why would one be in this space as opposed to other options of this nature?
MW: We don't currently offer membership at New Women Space. We wanted our programming to be accessible and inviting and didn't want to create any sort of in-group feeling at the space. We hope that women would be attracted to New Women Space based on our diverse programming, our approachability, attention to intersectionality, and opportunities to interact with other women in an intimate setting that feels more like a home away from home where you can instantly get comfortable and feel at ease.
AM: What community and interests does NWS serve and will you expand?
MW: We serve women who wish to learn and connect with other women, who believe that through collective conversation and action that we can create a more welcoming and empowering reality. We offer programming that will nourish your head, heart and spirit - from professional development to wellness classes, accountability programs that help women make progress in their work to carefree nights like our all women's comedy night.
We don't have any plans for expanding to an additional space just yet. We want to ensure that we grow with intention and thought and tend to the space and community we are seeing evolve everyday.
AM: What requirements are involved to be a member at NWS and what amenities and services do you provide?
MW: We don't have any requirements to host an event at New Women Space. We entertain all kinds of ideas and ensure that each woman who submits an idea for a workshop or event receives support and attention to see how best we can accommodate them in the space.
Our ground floor is bright and open and steadily growing a plant collection. Our basement floor is cozy and intimate, ideal for hosting wellness classes or performance based events. We have seen time and time again how the energy and ideas of the women that come through our doors fill up the space and make it come alive without the need for any fancy amenities.
AM: Why is this a community slated to trend for 2017?
MW: We didn't open New Women Space because we foresaw a trend or wanted to jump on any bandwagon. Yet, since we opened a few months ago we've already been included in several articles that address a growing number of spaces dedicated to women. It is clear that there are other women in the NYC area and across the country who have made supporting women their mission.
We heard from many women after the election results that they were so grateful that we existed. I think it's an important time for women to feel that someone is looking out for them, carving out safe space for them, and trying to create opportunities for them. We're honored to be a part of any movement that aims to do just that.
AM: We're always looking to up our game when it comes to our beauty treatments and are intrigued about your backgrounds and how you came to embark on this particular spa treatment which is in this year's Annual Wellness Trend Report in MBG?
HIGHERDOSE: Lauren and Katie met almost two years ago through a mutual friend. Lauren had just left a startup called Aloha and was inspired to bring infrared to health/fitness based on what she learned from doctors/health experts while working there. Part of her job was to seek out health trends, but no product on the market made her feel the way the infrared sauna did. Once she researched the benefits of infrared for an article she was writing. She knew it was going to be the next big thing in the space.
Katie had recently left an executive role at Tough Mudder and was consulting for a detox center. Lauren told Katie her idea, so Katie tried the infrared sauna, and was immediately "hooked" and gung-ho to launch the company with Lauren. Their backgrounds are very complimentary (Lauren as a nutritionist/health coach; Katie as a financier/entrepreneur), so they make a great team.
The girls started off by installing infrared heating systems in yoga studios (which was Lauren's original vision). Along the way, they were convinced New York needed a spa dedicated to infrared saunas since 1) they're in love with the product, 2) New Yorkers are so stressed and need to chill, and 3) because these types of places are doing well on the West Coast.
AM: What is and the purpose behind HigherDOSE?
HD: HigherDOSE is a lifestyle brand that aims to change the way people think about health & wellness. Instead of focusing on achieving a certain or mile time, we focus on ways to get high naturally (especially through infrared and other next level therapies). In fact, DOSE stands for Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphins, which are your four main happy chemicals. We promote a lifestyle centered around healthy ways to up your DOSE. We believe this captures the zeitgeist of our generation, as millennials are investing more in their own personal happiness vs. short lived highs of the past....
AM: What are the benefits of this treatment as opposed to a traditional sauna?
HD: Infrared heat is very gentle. The experience is similar to lying in the sun on a warm day and feeling the heat radiate to the core of your body. Unlike traditional (hot rock or steam) saunas--which operate at well in excess of 200°F--infrared heat has the benefit of being effective at a more comfortable operating temperature of 100°-150°F.
Traditional saunas heat the air vs. the body directly which can make the experience unbearably hot and difficult to breathe. Because infrared heat penetrates human tissue vs. simply heating the surface of the skin, infrared saunas are seven times more effective than traditional saunas at detoxifying the body. By raising the body's core temperature, infrared saunas can produce a sweat composed of 20% toxins vs. only 3% toxins with a traditional sauna.
AM: Do the four colors of lights provide specific benefits to those who use this service?
HD: There are actually many colours in our chromotherapy and each colour works on mood, chakara's and different alignments within the body. LED light's are super powerful and are used to grow healthy cells in plants and does the same for humans.
In a nutshell - Red is energizing, Blue is calming, Yellow is awakening, Orange is galvanizing, Green is healing and promotes creativity and Violet promotes spirituality.
AM: What role does music play in this treatment?
HD: We love music! Who doesn't really? The reason is listening to music, and even the anticipation of listening to music, releases dopamine in your brain (the pleasure/reward happy chemical which is also released through food and sex). Our saunas are equipped with soundsystems so clients can play their favorite music and get the dopamine flowing (which is what our brand is all about). We also make sure to play cool, vibe-y, burning man style DJ sets in our lounge to get you feeling good before and after the treatment.
AM: Why is this considered a natural high?
HD: Because it's designed to up your DOSE! You release DOSE in every session, for example - Music and knowing you're doing something good for yourself releases Dopamine, enjoying the sauna with a friend, lover, or colleague releases Oxytocin.... even if you go alone and take the time to appreciate your body (or even admire your sauna selfies), this also releases Oxytocin. Infrared itself releases Serotonin and downs cortisol, because infrared also increases your heart rate to the space of a light jog, Endorphins are released.
So it's pretty much the perfect natural high, which explains why the hashtag #addictedtoDOSE is so popular with our clients.
AM: Why is this a service that is slated to trend for 2017?
HD: We feel our offering spans many major trends, ncluding: reinventing the sauna/spa experience; rise of meditation and focus on mental health; athletes focus on recovery; Millennial's are looking for experience instead of product; and people want to feel good which equals looking good!
AM: What is your background and how did this lead you to creating DayTwo?
LIHI SEGAL: I have an extensive background in business positions at various start up companies. Over the years, I’ve been the CFO and COO of companies specializing in communications, semiconductors, and healthcare.
After I first became involved in healthcare (at a company called dbMotion, which specialized in information exchange and analytics, and was later sold to Allscripts), I knew there was no going back and it became difficult to consider taking a position in a company that isn’t involved in this area. Working in healthcare ignited a feeling of purpose in me that I haven’t felt in previous positions - we were touching people’s health, helping prevent disease, and improving their lives.
I later joined up with Yuval Ofek (former CEO of dbMotion) and Marius Nacht (founder of cybersecurity firm Checkpoint, among many other ventures) to found DayTwo. This came about after we were all fascinated by new gut microbiome research conducted at Israel’s Weizmann Institute of Science and its potential to improve people’s health and prevent disease. With our background in various tech companies, we hold a strong belief that using big data is the new way of developing effective healthcare solutions, and this ties in nicely with the Weizmann Institute research.
AM: What is DayTwo?
LS: DayTwo is the world's first provider of health improvement and disease prevention solutions based on Gut Microbiome research. Its first product, based on groundbreaking research led by Prof. Eran Segal and Dr. Eran Elinav from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, and exclusively licensed to DayTwo, is a personalized nutrition platform. It aims to normalize blood sugar levels and reduce risk for metabolic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, leveraging the world's largest and most detailed microbiome database. DayTwo's product pipeline includes additional microbiome-based diagnostic and therapeutic solutions.
AM: What is the gut microbiome?
LS: The gut microbiome is the collection of all microbes that exist in each person’s digestive tract and help us digest food. In our gut alone we have around 100 trillion microbes, similar to the number of cells that we have in our entire body! Each person’s microbiome is unique to, and influences the way, our body reacts to different foods. Unlike human genetics, we can change and manipulate our microbiome over time.
Microbiome research revealed that gut microbiome also affects our energy levels and our immune system. Recent research even showed that dieting may affect the microbiome in such a way that might lead to rapid weight gain once normal eating habits resume.
Since our gut microbiome is tied to so many different aspects of our health and well-being, it is extremely important to base our nutrition on our own unique microbiome composition.
AM: What are the benefits of using this and how does it enhance your lifestyle?
LS: People have been struggling to come up with a definitive answer to the question “what is the best diet for humans?” For many years, dietary trends have come and gone, and still, there is no clear answer.
The groundbreaking scientific research at the core of DayTwo’s personalized nutrition algorithm shows that we have been asking the wrong question. The right question is “what is the best diet for ME?”.
By basing our personalized nutrition recommendations on individual gut microbiome, as well as an extensive review of each customer's lifestyle and health, we are able to provide a plan that aims to normalize blood sugar levels.
DayTwo is not a diet, but a lifestyle and
wellness product. Maintaining healthy and normalized blood sugar levels can lead to better weight management, higher and more consistent energy levels, and, most importantly, can help reduce the risk of symptoms and diseases related to high blood sugar, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and more.
We encourage keeping a healthy and active lifestyle to go along with clean and balanced eating, based on our personalized nutrition recommendations.
AM: Why is this a service that is slated to trend for 2017 as you were included in this year's Wellness Trend Report?
LS: With genome-based personalized medicine being a hot topic of conversation, and new revelations on how our microbiome affects multiple aspects of our well-being published often, our product is at the forefront of these health trends.
Personalized nutrition that is specifically tailored to individual gut microbiome and meant to help balance blood sugar levels also addresses some of the most worrying health concerns of the past few decades, namely the rise of obesity to epidemic levels, and the growing number of individuals classified as either diabetic or prediabetic.
It is our strong belief that the path to a better, healthier life starts with better nutrition, and we are certain that in 2017 and beyond, more and more people will look to a tailored solution to improve their overall wellness.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | IMG 1 UnSplash | IMG 2 MindBodyGreen | IMG 3 Dr. Oz | IMG 4 Gem & Bolt Mezcal | IMG 5 New Women Space | IMG 6 + 7 HigherDose | IMG 8 Day 2 |
Read more from the Dec Issue.
Co-hosts Tim Gunn & Hannah Jeter
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Project Runway Junior
Last week, we shared the first episode of this season's Project Runway Junior on Lifetime. We're checking out the beauty looks that were created by this season's sponsor, Butter London. In this week's episode, "An Unconventional Pool Party" sends the designers on a quest to use interesting items to create their look for this week's challenge.
What's great about the show is being able to see the full product line of Butter London which includes nail polishes which is where the brand started and of course their lip, eyeshadows, and more! Below are pieces from the line that were used in this week's look. We have to say that we're very excited about the Double Decker Lashes Mascara (especially with NYE being hours away) - it's a great way to pop the eyes!
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: CHASING THE SUN | MICHAEL KORS Allie Mixed Media Sneaker Sierra | TANZEE The Original Fake Tan Sheet Protector | EVEN EARPHONES Earbuds |
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: FOR YOUR STOCKING | THE BODY SHOP Olive Body Scrub | BEEKMAN 1802 100% All Natural Goat Milk Lip Balms | BLISS Zest Wishes | EOS Lip Balm Sphere | PATCHOLOGY Travel Size FlashPatch Eye Gels | COMPARTES x J CREW Chocolates |
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: #ATHSPO | L*SPACE BY MONICA WISE Sierra Top + Runaway Swim Capri Pant | ADIDAS Stan Smith | HAVAIANAS Mini Bags Black | PRESSED JUICERY Spiced Almond | TRIGGER POINT THERAPY Grid Foam Roller | DECLÉOR Hand Cream |
See more from the Dec Issue!
We want to thank everyone who has made Athleisure Mag such a success as we close out our first year of issues, shoots, interviews and so much more! Whether you're spending time with friends or family - have a Merry Christmas and holiday and we can't wait to continue sharing our athleisure lifestyle with you in the coming new year!
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Paul Farkas
Project Runway Junior which is hosted by Tim Gunn and Hannah Jeter launched its recent season this past Thurs. Throughout the season, we'll share the beauty looks from the show's makeup sponsor, Butter London.
We love the natural glow from this look which is perfect to rock from the gym onto brunch and makes the skin look so healthy. Check out what Butter London pieces you can add to your cosmetic bag.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Project Runway Junior
Anthony with Beyonce Formation Tour dancers
For our readers that are fans of WE TV's, LA Hair, you know Celebrity Hairstylist and TV Personality, Anthony Pazos is one of the stars and team members of the Kim Kimble Salon which boasts a number of celebrities as clients - in addition to the Grand Diva herself, Beyonce. We talk about how he got into the industry, working with the Queen B during her
Formation Tour and tips/trends that we should keep an eye on during this season.
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you know that you wanted to be a hairstylist and what was your journey like?
ANTHONY PAZOS: I knew I wanted to be a hairstylist from a very young age. Growing up I was the oldest of 3 and it was my job to help get my sisters ready in the morning and that's where it all came about.
AM: We have enjoyed seeing you on L.A. Hair as a member of Kim Kimble's team - how did you join this team and what's it like being one of her rockstars?
AP: Being on LA Hair has been fun, for the past 4 seasons we've watched me grow into this brand that I am today. I'm so thankful that Kim & We TV believe in me enough to have me on the show. It's truly an honor to work alongside Kim and it's brought me some really fantastic
opportunities - working on Beyoncé’s team for one.
AM: What are your hair rules in terms of how you approach it and what you're known for as a hair stylist?
AP: I always approach my hairstyles differently depending on the client’s needs. Although my style tends to be more undone, I like everything to be perfect internally but styled messy and
effortlessly.
AM: We know that you have worked with Beyoncé, as well as her dancers' hair - what is that like and how much preparation and time goes into that?
AP: It truly is an honor to have been able to work on the Beyoncé team, sometimes it feels so unreal. Beyoncé’s productions are a lot of work and everything has to be perfect. I find it exciting to be able to challenge myself to create extraordinary hairstyles for the world’s
biggest entertainer.
AM: What are hair trends that were popular in 2016 that you believe will continue into next year and what are new trends that are becoming popular?
AP: 2016 was all about LOB's and smoky hues, we will definitely be seeing more of that come 2017. The great thing about 2016 is that it brought unusual colors to the masses, which in turn became fashionable. This really opened the door and allowed the everyday person to become
more daring. Suddenly, having grey or pink hair wasn't so unusual.
AM: What celebrities have you worked with (besides the Queen herself) that you can share with us?
AP: Man I've worked with so many celebs, but some of my most favorite were Khloe Kardashian, One Direction & Ashley Greene. I really enjoyed that these talents let me be creative and allowed me to do my magic without limitations.
AM: For our girls on the go, we want to know how we can get that red carpet look when we're without our glam squad. Many readers go to blow out bars so they look great for a night out, but how can we keep that blowout looking amazing longer?
AP: For the everyday girl I suggest just trying to have fun with your look. Don't worry about not getting it perfect because practice will make perfect. Also look at things on social media for inspiration.
Take ideas from others and make it your own. Then lastly, the only way to make a blow out last longer, is by not over-saturating with product, and on the last day try curling it to hide oily roots.
Kim Kimble (right) behind the scenes at Super Bowl 50 with Beyonce before her mega Half
Time Show Performance. Photo courtesy of Kim Kimble Salon.
AM: As a fashion stylist, I always keep certain tools of the trade on me in between clients and have learned from fellow MUAs about items I should have on hand. What do we need to for
on-the-go styling which ensures we're always red carpet ready?
AP: That's easy :) you should always have hairspray on hand. Hairspray's great because it can act as a style refresher, root boost and even frizz tamer. My personal favorite brand is Orlando
Pita's Humidity Blocker finishing spray.
AM: Dry, Oily and Frizzy hair has needs, how should we apply hairstyling product for our hair?
AP: Depending on which or all you are battling I always recommend by starting from within. A balanced diet and healthy intake of water usually help combat those hair disasters.
AM: With winter coming, how can we protect our hair and give it the love that it needs to stay gorgeous?
AP: Regular trims and visits to your hairstylist is always the best bet when combating weather changes. I also recommend listening to what your hair needs, the needs of your hair are always telling as long as you pay attention to it.
AM: How can we use clip-ins, wigs and extensions like a stylist and why would one choose one over the other? How can we maintain them?
AP: I have always been a fan of hair additives, such as wigs or extensions. Sometimes these luxuries can be quite expensive but on the other hand they can be a great addition to your everyday look. I always suggest taking care of yourself first. That means do what it takes to be the best you, even if you have to save money to be able to afford these luxuries. In the end you won't regret it and you'll feel elevated.
Make sure to catch Anthony, Kim Kimble and the rest of the LA Hair cast on WE TV for a new season in Jan '17.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Kim Kimble
The holidays are around the corner and it's always fun to plan where you will meet with friends to grab a coffee, cocktails, and of course brunch. You need the perfect bag to distribute gifts to friends and family during this season of presents! We've rounded up great gift and must have options to tote to make your day glam.
| THE INVISIBLE HEELS 1.5" Invisible Heels | SWEAT COSMETICS Twist Brush Mineral Cosmetics | BALENCIAGA Bazar Shopper S | NINA JEWELRY Swarovski Bracelet | TRILOGY Make-Up Be Gone Cleansing Balm | METAL MINGLE Cut It Out Earrings | KEY SOCKS Knee High No Show Socks |
SHOT AT The Clare | PHOTOGRAPHY Paul Farkas | STYLIST Kimmie Smith | MUAH Evie Ry | MODEL Bobby Penney/Major Model | MODEL Sage Lauren/Major Model |
This month's fashion editorial was shot at The Clare, on Manhattan's Upper East Side. We asked a few questions about this soon to open property.
ATHLEISURE MAG: What amenities are offered at The Clare?
THE CLARE: Unique to The Clare is the sprawling 13th floor amenity space, which will have 12-foot double height ceilings and offer views of Central Park and the Queensboro Bridge. Residents will enjoy a fitness center and flexroom that will be available for classes and personal training, a spacious lounge with bar and entertainment area, and an 800 plus-square-foot terrace outfitted with aluminum accents and Porcelanosa pavers. The full-service
residential experience at The Clare will also include a 24-hour doorman, a bike room for added convenience and 421A tax abatement.
AM: What is the concept behind the design of the building?
TC: Designed by Manuel Glas to capture the relationship between light, shadow and air, The Clare showcases dawn-to-dusk light and sweeping city views. In an unmatched design, the south-facing building is wrapped in vertical fins that provide discreet shade to the residences
as the sun travels east to west. Apartments at the first-of-its-kind Porcelanosa-sheathed condominium will reflect a modern, streamlined design with 7-inch white oak hardwood
floors throughout, double-insulated glass operable windows, LED lighting, and painted white solid wood swing and pocket doors. Open kitchens will be equipped with appliances by Miele,
along with custom Poggenpohl cabinetry. The serene master bedrooms will feature 9-foot plus ceilings and en-suite baths with fixtures by Watermark, extra-large quartz countertops
with double sinks, frosted glass, soaking tubs and enclosed showers.
AM: What are other selling points in this building?
TC: The unit mix at the 19-floor building will include studio to four-bedroom apartments. Duplex residences at the condominium will boast larger proportions with double exposures and soaring ceiling heights of up to 18-feet 2 inches, many with terraces and balconies.
At the crown of The Clare, a fourbed, four-bath triplex penthouse will offer incredible views of the cityscape, walls of windows, a 14-by-22 skylight, a terrace lining the great room and master bedroom, and immense private outdoor space with hot tub on the rooftop. The building will offer smart, unique layouts with 15 different floorplans. In addition, the entire building will be equipped with radiant floor heating – a rarity in New York City.
AM: When will this building be completed and open to the public?
TC: Completion is anticipated to be end of this year, and anticipated occupancy is at the end of Q1 2017.
AM: Is there anything that we should know about the neighborhood that would be a draw to residents of this building?
TC: The Clare is located at the nexus of the Upper East Side and Midtown at 61st Street and Second Avenue, an area that is a true shopping and dining mecca with opulent offerings such as Barney’s, Chanel, Mr Chow and Atlantic Grill. Residents will also be within walking distance to Central Park, popular fitness options such as Equinox and Soul Cycle, and famous cultural
institutions like MoMA and The Met. The building also offers fantastic proximity to the FDR Drive and 59th Street Bridge, as well as convenient public transportation options, which will
soon be expanded by the new Second Avenue subway project.
Check out how you can make headphone hair cute and glam (for later when you unwrap your hair for soft flowy locks) simply by using your Beats Solo 3 courtesy of Celebrity Hair Stylist Riawna Capri.
It's the most wonderful time of year and yet, it's also the most hectic time of year at the same time. This means that you have a number of opportunities to take some time for yourself so that you can stay stress free. As always, we have some must have items to add to your list (or that you can also gift as you see fit)!
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | UnSplash
| SUSAN CIMINELLI Hydrating Gel Mask | BASQ Cooling Body Bliss | QUIP Subscription Based Toothbrush Kit | CLARISONIC Pedi |
PHOTO CREDIT: Matthew Gilbertson
Another season finale of Spike's Ink Master came to an end with a celebration at Beauty & Essex earlier this week (which has hosted the season finale party for the last three years), Chef Santos' Lower East Side hotspot. Pictured above are hosts: Dave Navarro, Oliver Peck and Chris Nunez.
Beauty & Essex is known for a great menu and showcasing the beauty of it's space with a pawn shop entrance, giant chandeliers made of pearl and wine as well as a mirror room.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | UnSplash
Aloe is an amazing ingredient that soothes and enriches all parts of your body from the inside out. With dipping temperatures on the horizon, we need to pamper ourselves even more than we usually would. This month, we found perfect ways to ensure that you're body ready as the end of the year begins to close out!
| SHEA MOISTURE Organic Yucca + Aloe Thickening Growth Milk | NATURE REPUBLIC Smart Soak | SEPHORA COLLECTION Aloe Vera Hand Mask | THE BODY SHOP Aloe Eye Defense |
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Hard Rock Hotel, Riviera Maya Mexico
In this month's Athleisure List, we include much needed me time as the hustle and bustle that the upcoming season brings means that we need to restore our senses. When your local spa doesn't do the trick, you find a vacation spot with one that does.
Hard Rock Hotel's properties are known for bringing rock and roll to you. With the belief in working hard and playing hard, it's worth noting that they are serious about the business of taking time for yourself as well. At their Riviera Maya, Mexico destination, Rock Spa® is located at Heaven for adult guests only. With a full menu of offerings, it's worth noting that their innovative massages and renowned Hydrotherapy is a must for guests to enjoy.
Massages are taken to the next level with the properties' Rhythm and Motion offerings which incorporate traditional Swedish Massage practices, blending music, light, beats and more
together in an effort to involve all your senses - mind, body, and soul to give it's guests the ultimate path to peace and tranquility. Music therapy works in tandem with the treatments provided. This methodology can be found in four treatments.
Synchronicity (50 or 80 minutes) plays the greatest hits and taps into memories to create an experiential journey, in sync with a performance of techniques, pressure and rhythm.
Face the Music (50 or 80 minutes) brings therapeutic benefits of sound vibration and clinically proven organic products to rejuvenate and hydrate facial skin.
Smooth Operator (50 minutes) utilizes a two-part treatment removing impurities and invites new nourishing elements.
Wrap Remix (110 minutes) is the ultimate healing experience warming guests up and wrapping them in bliss with a sweet finish. Guests enjoy a full body benefit, with a cleansing shot of
ginger tea to jumpstart the detox process, followed by a brisk, rhythmical Sweetgrass inspired dry brushing. Following the detoxifying wrap to nourish the skin, the 50-minute rhythm and motion massage and cleansing facial mask complete the treatment. A refreshing shot of Rock Spa® Detox Tea is then served, to keep guests in a state of ahhh even longer.
When enjoying treatments here, guests are encouraged to prep the body with the Hydrotherapy Pools which are 3 small pools that allow your body to go from various temperatures of hot, cold, and temperate in order to awaken the body and to get ready for
whichever services you have opted to enjoy.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Rae Morris
We took a moment with Celebrity Makeup Artist, Rae Morris who is renowned as one of the most influential Makeup Artists in the world. She is not only a number one best-selling author, but also a four times Australian Makeup Artist of the Year, the longest serving Makeup Director for L’Oreal Paris (2003-2013) and has been inducted into multiple Halls of Fame.
With the success of her new book, Makeup Masterclass, which took 2 years to shoot in Australia as well as NYC, we talked about her new release, her must have tools that she designed and what makeup is an essential that we should know about.
ATHLEISURE MAG: How did you know that you wanted to be a makeup artist and who were your inspirations?
RAE MORRIS: In the 80’s, I was a model for about 5 minutes, and that was a time when faces were transformed to look “unrecognizable.” That’s when my love for makeup began. I was also blessed to be around the birth of Culture Club, Marilyn, and Ziggy Stardust, where men wore as much sometimes more makeup than women!
AM: Makeup Masterclass is such a powerful and comprehensive book that showcases tools, maintaining skin, methods and the end result of creating a large number of looks that are popular whether they are rocked on the streets, or in a number of shows/movies that we watch. How did you go about putting this project together?
RM: The experience from the previous five books really helped, but the aim was to create a book that not only combined but also eclipsed all my previous books into one big bible. Probably the hardest bit was putting into words some of the creative processes and techniques that I’ve developed and use everyday. Normally, I would just demonstrate them, but for the book I had to illustrate with words and diagrams. I’m really proud of how my “Eye Phi” turned out. The project itself ran over 2 years. We shot first in Sydney and then in New York. Then the real work started. In the end, it was almost over-engineered. It had the best paper, rose gold embossed hard cover, dust cover… Our lead designer even flew to the printer and slept there for five days to make sure they got the color grading right!
AM: It's been 7 years since you wrote your first book, what do you feel has changed in the industry since then?
RM: I can't even believe how much has changed in the industry in the last 7 years since Makeup Guide was released. If I could turn back the clock and be told in that seven year’s time, 13 year-olds will have their own “channel” in the form of youtube, etc and women who never even knew what a contour cream was, would not only know ten types, but they would also know the makeup artist’s secret of applying it. There is so much “free information” available.
AM: You have your own line of tools, and in the book you go through the kinds of brushes. that one should have - what are 3 tools from your collection that you suggest that every makeup kit should have?
RM: No.3 Ultimate Cheekbone - I believe the most powerful anti-aging thing a woman can do is contour, but it can be confusing. This brush takes all the guesswork out of it for you. It carves the perfect cheekbone in less than 3 strokes.
Radiance Brush (26) - I honestly believe no foundation brush comes close to this one. It’s the softest (but still firm) and it works with all foundation types (from liquid to cream to powder) by applying foundation in seconds. It is a favorite of Kelly Roland, Paula Abdul, and Sarah Jessica Parker just ordered one. Also, the Radiance was seen all over the back stage atthe McQueen show in Paris.
No 7. Deluxe Point Shader - This brush will change the way you do your eye makeup. It’s super soft, perfect for creating the perfect socket, but just by adding pressure to the brush you can create the best Smokey eye in seconds.
NO.14 Perfect eyeliner - Eyeliner brushes are essential, you can use them for the obvious “Eyeliner” tasks or just to intensify your chosen eye shadow around the lash line. I have three sizes in my brush range, as one size does not fit all! You may want a precise fine line or a bold "Audrey Hepburn” line, so I recommend using the the right size brush to achieve the line size that you want.
AM: Even skin tone is something that is essential to any makeup look. You share a great tip on how to ensure that you are matching your skin correctly; can you share this with our readers?
RM: It’s a myth to match your foundation to your jawline; your neck is usually much paler than your face due to it being blocked from the sun. You always want your face and body to be the same color, so always match it on the décolletage area and if you fake tan you need to darken your base.
AM: What makeup/skincare brands do you personally advise that we should have?
RM: For makeup I love Nars, M.A.C. and I’m so in love with the I.T concealers and foundations, and Ellis Faas creamy eyes are my favorite. For skin care I love Ultra Cuticles MD, or anything that’s active, I love the little tingle I get when I use the vitamin “A’ and “C’s” and I love having omilux light and gentle peels, I would rather spend the money and go to a dermatologist or a cosmetic physician and see results, than spend so much money on hype.
AM: Of the looks that you create in Make-up Masterclass, which ones are your favorites and which ones do you personally wear yourself?
RM: I do love the cover of Shanina Shaik. I love the femininity and the prettiness of the makeup. For me, I don’t actually wear makeup (rarely) to work. I don’t want to show off to my clients what I’m capable of, but if I had to pick a look it would be the second look I did on Shanina. It’s all about the eyeliner, with everything else paired back.
AM: What is a day in the life for you as a Celebrity Makeup Artist?
RM: Four makeup bags, two assistants, and everyday is different. It’s a balancing act between the photographer, the client, and the model; what they want me to do and what I want to do. So it’s constant consulting and decision-making. It’s more stressful than you might think, especially with all the egos involved (including mine). The makeup is the easy bit.
AM: Are you able to tell us celebrity clients that you have worked with and/or those that you would like to work with?
RM: Some I can tell. Others I keep quiet for confidentiality reasons, so I don’t get hammered with questions about them when the cameras are off. My “keeping them private policy” is why these clients keep booking me.
So here are a few of my faves: Pink, Jessica Biel, Ellie Goulding, Kelly Roland, Paula Abdul, Shanina Shaik, Miranda Kerr, Cyndi lauper, just to name a few…
AM: Paula Abdul wrote the forward for your book and we know that you did her makeup on So You Think You Can Dance, Australian edition - how did you get her to be involved with your book?
RM: Some celebrities you work with become close friends. I consider Paula a friend, rather then a client now.
Yes, it was on that show that we met and we just started a great friendship. She always had this way of complimenting me and my work. She would say the best quotes about me, to me, so she just was perfect for the job.
AM: How do you stay balanced with so many projects that you work on and what fitness methods do you do?
RM: I’m actually completely out of balance (balance has never been a word anyone has used to describe me) and I have never exercised. I'm always too exhaust-
ed. I was brought up in a gymnasium, my mother was an instructor so it traumatized me for life. It’s always all or nothing, so I’m either working on the most creatively challenging jobs with 5 assistants, or I’m sitting at home watching “Peppa Pig” and playing Play Dough with my two year-old. Or I’m sleeping, so I suppose that’s balance?...
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Healthy HooHoo
We truly enjoyed chatting with the founder of Healthy HooHoo, Stacy Lyon who is a 20 year ski veteran turned, feminine care brand. As we chatted about parabens, women's bodies, fitness and her gypsy soul - time and time again she continued to echo her sentiment of "you can't pick your lightbulb moment."
ATHLEISURE MAG: Why did you create Healthy HooHoo?
STACY LYON: I always say, it was the perfect storm. One of the main reasons I started a few years ago when my roommate from college called me up and said she had breast cancer. It was one of those conversations where your inner eagle comes out. I had never had a friend who had cancer and so you start asking all of these questions. You want to know, what did she do that I don't want to do that causes cancer?
So I asked her, "now that you know that you have cancer, what are you doing to change your diet - what are the doctor's saying?" She explained that the doctors found a paraben in her breast tissue biopsy. I had never heard of that word "paraben" before and I felt that I was pretty aware - but it caught me off guard. She explained that it is a preservative that is found in a lot of our products and that they found this toxin in her breast cancer tissue. It lives in fatty tissue like in our breasts and reproductive areas where women carry all these fats.
She joked that she had changed all of her products, except for her feminine wash. I thought, "who still uses that?" That was early in the week and by the middle of the week my triathalete buddy was training with me for the Danskin Triathalon and she complained that she had issues down there and what I had done. I explained that you should let it be and not douche. But it made me research this. Then that Fri, my gynecologist said she was getting out of the practice and that a lot of peoplewere getting vaginities and vagitosis. She said that 10 - 20 years ago she didn't see this because women now have a high sugar diet, we're over cleansing and we wear tight synthetic fabrics. At the time, she was referring to the tight polyester thong. As the pelvis moves, the thong moves from back to front as you walk and it relocates microscopic bacteria.
I'm here in Bend, Oregon, home of the most fit human beings - and I will be heading to the gym and am already in my active clothes. Everyone runs around with kinseology tape because we're home to some of the best runners and it's all about active leisure. I walk a fine line, because I wear all of this stuff but then I have to also tout the fact that I am here for one thing only - vulva and vaginal health.
AM: We love wearing the gear when we're running errands or hitting our studio fitness centers. Various workouts put you in more contact with bikes and other apparatuses.
SL: You hit it right on the head. I found this because I had a light bulb moment after this strange week of hearing from women. My background comes from spending 20 years in the ski industry. I came up with the idea 7 years ago and we launched 4 years ago. All my ski industry buddies now joke that I used to talk verticals and now I talk vagina! I always joke that I wished it had been something in the wine industry but you can't pick your lightbulb moments.
Parabens actually do their job as they keep bacteria from growing in our products. Many times, the bacteria is worse then the parabens. My semi-business partner who is a retired gynecologist, she figures out that the parabens' fragrance is the worst chemical of them all. We run into problems when we layer this stuff on everyday. So think about your makeup, skincare, hair products etc - it's not just one product that we're using but the culmination of the mass use.
I had never used any wipes before. Years ago, I did a long backpacking trip in Nepal which meant being out there for weeks without showering. So I thought I would use a feinine wipe and I literally used one and immediately got a rash! I threw them out.
So the wipes were created as I love to travel and have a gypsy soul and needed something for those times. The other products are for the shower obviously. What I like to say is that my gynecologist and partner says that we should all be washing with water, but the vulva has a lot of sweat glands and creates a lot of heat. When you are sweaty, you need to remove the sweat as that is where the bacteria grows.
So if you are working out, you have to do a little more then just water and this is the healthiest option out there.
AM: What is pH and what is the best range?
SL: pH is the alkalenity of the vagina. The big thing here is, I spend much of my day educating people on the difference between the vagina and the vulva.
The vagina is all the inside bits. It's a self cleaning oven, we leave it alone and don't need to touch it. It's really similar to the inside of the nose (we wash our faces but not the inside of our noses). You wash your vulva. So it's the vagina's pH that is the whole key to keeping everything happy. If you can keep the pH of the vagina in a certain range - it keeps it at its age appropriate acidic environment.
I say age appropriatebecause it changes. We're very alkaline as little girls and then when our periods start, we drop to a very acid state sometimes as low as 4.2/4.3. That acidity goes up and down everyday based on our thyroids, hormones, stress levels, what we have eaten etc. The pH can change without our massive intervention by messing it up with soap and other things like that. Periods really can kick off the alkaline and some people receive yeast infections at that time because during menses the pH can rise. As she goes into menopause, the acidity starts to climb and she will go from the low 3s to the low 5s. 7 is right down the middle (it goes from 0 - 14). So if you think about it this way, the vagina's acid environment is there as a protective barrier. The bacteria can't multiply in this environment so it is brilliant by design. It's there because the neanderthal gal was getting bread and she was protected by her acid environment. The key is to keep it as acidic as possible and it is affected by dozens of things. We can control it by our diet, exercise, what we wear and how we cleanse ourselves.
AM: Will there be additional products?
SL: These products are the core and I have 3 products that are in development now in the hands of the coolest gal who really loves to work out! She's a Yale graduate and natural product chemist and she is the one that comes up with the formulas. She tests them and then we test them on friends and then perform stability tests, pH tests, paraben tests - and third party laboratory tests. These care products will be out late Spring '17. They are there to help women who have a few more issues. They are not FDA - they're really gentle and mild.
AM: Where is Happy HooHoo sold?
SL: Right now we're expanding within Whole Foods as we're in 5 regions currently. We're not in the NYC region just yet, but from Connecticut all the way to Maine. We have been expanding in the natural world. I love my products being sold in natural homeopathic clinics as it seems to be doing really well there. Since we're there, the doctors will say, we know you're using something more then just water and you can't talk many patients into just using water.
We're weeks away from launching our brand new Shopify website. So we've always been wholesale, pharmacy, etc but this is one of those products that women want to buy from the comfort of their home. We know that we do well on Amazon so we were like, ok if we're doing this well, we need to sell direct.
Anna Kaiser just called me up as she has our bottles in her gym shower. We did a trunk show with her last fall so we included the single wipes within her AKT in Motion Road Show swag bag. She's a big fan and she has that great A list clientele.
AM: Do you guys work with any charities?
SL: I don't have a direct charity but we do a lot of philanthropy. We work with #HappyPeriod, they do menstrual kitsfor homeless teens and women. We donated 20,000 wipes to Togo Africa for their Clitoral Mutalation Clinic. We work with a lot of homeless shelters!
See more from the Oct Issue
Part of Athleisure Beauty focuses on great finds that allow you to go from one place to the next in seamless transition. Whether you're leaving home or heading from the gym to cocktails with friends, these pieces are must haves to include in your routine.
PHOTO COURTESY | UnSplash
| MAI COUTURE Blush Papier | SWEAT COSMETICS Skin Balancing Cleansing Wipes | MILK MAKEUP Eye Marker |
See more from the Sept Issue
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL FARKAS
Earlier this month, Athleisure Mag presented its first event during NYFW with ATHLEISURE HOUSE, a fitness, fashion and branded showcase event. We showcased: HOM, a mens underwear and activewear line (this show was paired shoes by Sand by Saya as well as Pikolinos), Maaji Swimwear, a vibrant swim line (paired with feather accessories by SoundChick Accessories, gold jewelry from Kemi Designs, shoes by Sand and Saya as well as Yosi Samra), and pool floats by Big Mouth Inc), and Noli Yoga, a NYC based activewear line (with accessories from Misfit, Apple Watch, Yosi Samra, and Sand by Saya) which took place in a private luxury residential property, 535 W 43rd St, in Hell's Kitchen.
Our event was supported by a number of partners including: TRULY Spiked Sparkling Water, JUST WATER, Maple Water, Bai, Truth Bars, Macro Bars and Organic Gemini. Guests enjoyed a lifestyle curated bag filled with Nature Republic, Trilogy, Victorinox Swiss Army, The Green Blender - placed in a Quilted Koala market tote.
For the backstage, a number of our food and beverage sponsors were enjoyed by our models and creative team members. Our Official Makeup Sponsor was Eve Pearl which created 3 great looks to showcase the lifestyle of each of the lines that were presented.
To the right, you can find out more about our teams and brands featured within this immersive event during fashion's biggest week.
ATHLEISURE HOUSE CREDITS
| MENSWEAR SHOW Hom | FOOTWEAR Pikolinos, Sand by Saya | ACCESSORIES Sand by Saya |
| SWIM SHOW Maaji Swimwear | FOOTWEAR Yosi Samra, Sand by Saya | GOLD ACCESSORIES Kemi Designs| FEATHER ACCESSORIES SoundChick Accessories | WEARABLE ACCESSORIES Misfit |
| YOGA SHOW Noli Yoga | FOOTWEAR Yosi Samra + Sand by Saya | ACCESSORIES SoundChick Accessories, Quilted Koala | WEARABLE ACCESSORIES Apple Watch, Misfit |
| MAKEUP LEAD Nydia Figueroa | MAKEUP KEY ASSISTANT Kat Osorio | MUA TEAM Angelica Alberti, Agnes Barnet, Sasha Dalger, Lorena Ferreira, Auralis Flores, Jordan Norberto, Hadar Sagi, Aleck Zajac | HAIRSTYLE LEAD Brooke Bogle | HAIRSTYLE TEAM Saidy Cepeda-Criado, Lea DeLoy, Diva LaSha |
| ATHLEISURE HOUSE ASSISTANT Christina Sanchez |
| PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY Paul Farkas |
| MODELS | MSA Callie G, Deandra, Johanna, Julie D, Taylor, Becky B, Jordan | COUTURE MODELS Jessy L, Lauren A | TRUE MODEL Nicholas, Oheni Morris, Christian, Lance| Vicky, Margo, Fazon Gray |
See more from the Sept Issue.
