NEW YEAR, N3W YOU

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I think watching my son grow up is a beautiful thing, watching him develop. Internationally, I was just in Finland with a partnership I'm working on there. Being approached by Care Bears was very dreamy for me.

I’m working on a podcast so I hope to have that checked off. Then also just expanding in licensing into a few more countries. 

Care Bears is in the first quarter of 2017 and in the second in a big way. My Colette partnership in Paris is another major buzz as I brought Care Bears In for that. 

STACY IGEL | FOUNDER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR & DESIGNER | BOY MEETS GIRL | Photography Courtesy Stacy Igel

I'm looking forward to spending more time chanting and reflecting, to get really grounded and clear-minded for 2017.

I'm really excited to offer one Latino chef from New Orleans a scholarship to The International Culinary Center in New York. It can be difficult to work your way up the ladder from dishwasher or line cook to executive chef. There aren’t many opportunities for aspiring chefs, especially from the Latin community, to get to that next level in my opinion. The scholarship, which is part of the John Besh Foundation and its Chefs Move program, is necessary to overcome financial barriers. As part of the scholarship, I'll mentor the winner and take him/her with me to Mexico. I hope to eventually give out multiple scholarships in one year.

AARÓN SÁNCHEZ| CHEF/OWNER JOHNNY SANCHEZ + TV PERSONALITY ON FOOD NETWORK | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY AARON Sanchez

One of the things that made this year so special is how I realized the growth of my brand and the ability to clearly see how far I’ve made it in my career. A huge moment for me was when E! reached out for me to be on Revenge Body By Khloe Kardashian. Being on television training people and helping them was something I has spoken into existence around November 2015. Seeing the lives I've changed helped me to be more confident and helps me to push forward. This was a major moment of affirmation and understanding for me how powerful your words are, the lives I’ve changed, it's helped me be more confident. Traveling to Spain for two weeks with my first NBA client was also special this year. It was there we really sealed our bond. I never thought I’d be working with an NBA player, yet alone traveling the world. The trip allowed me to reflect and put my journey into perspective. 

I can double down on my discipline. I believe that in everything you do there must be discipline. when we fall short on our discipline, we make make mistakes and mistakes mess up our game plan. In order to stay focused on my goals, discipline is key and it’s something I have to truly work at.  

Timing! Using time wisely can can help achieve all my goals this coming year. We always like to say we don’t have enough time, but that’s  impossible. We have 24 hours a day to take care of everything we need to take care of. We have to have the discipline to make time to do the things we have to get done.

I'm super proud to announce I just launched my new website CoreyCalliet.com, where I'll be uploading videos, workout plans and showing a different side of me with my blog. My blog will discuss how to stay motivated, eat right and even give a little relationship advice! I’m also working on my athleisure line and preparing for more television appearances. The goals for 2017 are to continue transforming more bodies and building my brand.

COREY CALLIET | CELEBRITY FITNESS TRAINER + TRAINER ON E!'s REVENGE BODY WITH KHLOE KARDASHIAN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY COREY CALLIET

It was a great year for women! Team USA's women won the most medals this year in Rio, seeing Serena Williams come out with such a strong voice this year and even Hillary Clinton's run for president.

I am really excited to share more about myself! A lot of times, when the Olympics are over, people wonder what  we do, how we train, and our recovery from injuries. KristiCastlin.com will do this so that they get to know more about me, “Hollywood,” which is my personal style and my road to the Olympics for 2020 in Tokyo.

I'm starting to work with brands in terms of my sponsors/endorsements in 2017! 

KRISTI CASTLIN | USA 2016 OLYMPIAN 100M BRONZE HURDLER | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY KRISTI CASTLIN

CRAIG: No doubt the biggest blessing and game-changer for 2016 was Sybil Ann Melvin who burst onto the scene November 5th. She and our 2 1/2 year son fill our days (sometimes long) and nights (sometimes short) with laughs. I didn't believe the countless people who warned us about how fast it goes, but they were right. It's flying by. We used to cuddle up at night and watch shows. Now one of our favorite hobbies has become watching the lightbulb in our son's head go off almost daily now as he gets something for the first time or creates a clever new way to challenge us. Lindsay and I spent a fair amount of time reflecting on our dating days in Washington, DC and marvel at how that turned into this. 

LINDSAY: Overall, I'd say the blessing of good friendship is a big one for me. The gift of our new daugher has given me more time to focus on and get to know the amazing women I normally don't have time to hang with much because of how busy my work schedule is. It's been moments like listening to a girlfriend's story at a coffee shop or walk at the beach that has meant a lot.

A place that started off our year on a great note... A magical trip to Sedona, Arizona. We went there last Feb. to Enchantment resort. I think about it all the time. Such wonderful amenities in the most serene and relaxing setting.

CRAIG: This time last year, I resolved to be more present so I could enjoy some of my special moments more. I did it.... for about three weeks. I'm recommitting to putting down my phone for large swaths of time, occasionally cutting myself off from the digital world, and rediscovering the great art of conversation. I'm going to text less. There are also the annual pledges to work out more and eat and drink less. Thinking there's a greater chance for a digital detox. We'll see. 

LINDSAY: My goal for 2017 is to allow creativity to play a more dominant role in my life and my career. This is the year I'm going to create something. It may be as random as the perfect eyemask to promote sleep (something we could all use more of) or as consuming as a new show but damnit, it's gonna happen. 

Getting back to writing more and living a less "cluttered" lifestyle is certainly a resolution that will make myself and my husband happy :)

I'm going to spend more time living in the moment and not worrying about what is or isn't ahead and relishing in my kids discoveries and happiness is key. I am committing to worry less and to get away with my husband to a place we've never been.

CRAIG: As for upcoming awesomeness, look for me in places outside the news space. Perhaps some sort of fantastic project or venture with my favorite collaborator...my wife. We're doing well at making babies. Maybe it's time to see what other compelling content we can create.

LINDSAY: Stay tuned...exciting things ahead this year, but besides things I'm looking forward to career-wise, I'm excited about stepping outside of my comfort zone working on some passion projects that will challenge my creativity and also spending more time doing work to helping others. I'm looking forward to cohosting the leukemia lymphoma ball in Washington DC with my husband this spring and working to raise money for cancer research impacting both adults like my Dad as well as kids battling pediatric cancer.

HUSBAND AND WIFE POWER COUPLE |

CRAIG MELVIN | MSNBC NEWS ANCHOR + CO-HOST TODAY WEEKEND

LINDSAY CZARNIAK | ANCHOR ESPN SPORTSCENTER | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CRAIG MELVIN + LINDSAY CZARNIAK

Wrapping another very successful season on “The Biggest Loser” was an amazing way to start my year! Of course it felt good to have my contestants win both the at home and championship prizes, but I was so proud of all the contestants. Their courage continues to inspire me and others to consider what can happen when you believe in yourself. Another big moment for me this year was being named the face of women's fitness for Reebok! As a global ambassador for the brand, it's my responsibility to help more and more people take those first steps of fitness, so that's exactly what I'm going to do. On a personal level, this year was particularly special for me because I had the privilege of officiating two of my best friend’s weddings. Such incredible and proud moments for me. And to top off an amazing year, I adopted my rescue dog Hank!

In the midst of this beautifully, crazy year I have lost my way when it comes to taking care of myself. It's ironic to say as I'm the one that teaches this to people, but this is my reality so I intend to embrace it. I freely and passionately love to give to others, but it is my resolution to work on balancing that output with more input... more time and joy for myself. 

My first book, DIET RIGHT FOR YOUR PERSONALITY TYPE, will be on shelves February 7th! I just had to write this book... finally an eating guide that's customized for the reader, honoring their strengths and personality. This book will prove what an asset they are in their lives and help them lose weight in a healthy sustainable way. As of the New Year, I will also be a featured columnist each month for Shape Magazine and have joined their board of directors. In addition, I have been brought on to be the North American spokesperson for California Almonds.
 
I believe we must all be accountable for our own greatness. As I teach others to do it, I will walk the walk and do it for me as well. Promise! 

JEN WIDERSTROM | CELEB TRAINER +  COACH ON NBC'S BIGGEST LOSER | PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS JEN WIDERSTROM

PROJECT RUNWAY JUNIOR X BUTTER LONDON | EPISODE 2

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.

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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 2016

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: FOR THE COMMUTE | ARAMLEE Hana Convertible Bag  | MONDAINE Helvetica No 1 Bleu Marine Light (26mm) | TECH21 Evo Check | SPORTO Dena Cold Weather Duck Boots  | WAFF Medium Notebook with Blank & Letter Cubes |

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!

DEC ISSUE IS LIVE

The Dec issue is live - our last issue of the year! It's so exciting to have this issue which is filled with a number of great interviews from Boy Meets Girl - Stacy Igel, NEW YEAR, N3W YOU from celebrity trainers, fashion designers, Olympians and even wellness trends. Check it out below!

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT | Paul Farkas

NEXT LEVEL | PASTA

The holidays are the perfect time to take some time to read a number of newsletters that you subscribe to but never get the chance to. It's no surprise that we're fans of Pressed Juicery and in addition to their emails that share upcoming flavors that are available, we look forward to their blog, The Chalkboard Mag which shares a number of finds in the wellness space.

We were introduced to a phenomenal pasta artist who uses a number natural veggies to die the colors of her medium. Check out the original article here on TCM. This whimsical artists' Instagram is so colorful and there are many ways that she shares her talent via @SaltySeattle. Like many that embark on a journey, Linda Miller Nicholson realized that her toddler wasn't a fan of vegetables so she hid it within the pasta. She uses a number of 100% natural dyes which include turmeric, beets, spices, beets and more! The amount of designs and classic pasta shapes that she has made are astounding! We definitely need to check her  out the next time we're in Seattle.

Check out the top beverage flavor trends on Athleisure Mag's - The Latest

Make sure you check out her 29 pasta flavors and add some color into your meals!

Top Beverage Flavor Trends For 2017 | Turmeric, Coconut and Spice

As we close one year, we look towards the next for trends that we can expect to see in our lifestyle. Every category has something worth noting and Flavorman, a known beverage architect firm has generated their forecast for this year. Last year, Ginger, Orange and Lime were top flavors. The flavor forecast for 2017 includes healthy and clean spices that are old favorites and exotic. Turmeric, a herb and kitchen staple known for both its distinctive flavor that is mildly aromatic with a sense of orange and ginger and health benefits is the top trending flavor for 2017.

Known as the "new" ginger, Turmeric has a sharp taste with powerful benefits that include reducing cholesterol to controlling diabetes. In addition, it has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. You can find this in teas and smoothies as it fights colds, the flu and is great for a cleanse.

Coconut continues to be on trend as it is a tropical flavor and is the "tree of life". It's known for its subtle sweetness, and hints of butterscotch and caramel. It is known as a nutritious source of meat, juice, milk and oil. Its benefits are vast but include treating asthma, kidney stones and tumors.  

Spices in general have been a mainstay in the flavor scene and are popping up in non-traditional ways including, distillers using it within their line extensions of classic spirits. You'll find spicy rum, bourbon and whiskey to find its way to your stores. 

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Flavorman

ATHLEISURE THROUGH THE WEEK

Athleisure is such an easy look that can carry you throughout the week as it's all about comfort. It's all about having great leggings, boyfriend style pants, overcoats, hoodies, sneakers, tees and more. With many of us on vacation or out of the office, here are some great pieces that you can rock during the year to add a little extra zip to your look as you head to your studio of choice, errands and brunch with friends!

SEASON'S GREETINGS FROM ATHLEISURE MAG

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 X BUTTER LONDON | EPISODE 1

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

REEBOK QUESTION MID X MELODY EHSANI - ALLEN IVERSON 20TH ANNIVERSARY

Celebrity designer and serial collaborator, Melody Ehsani released a ladies exclusive colorway of Reebok's Question Mid X Meloday Ehsani. These shoes are in honor of the 20th anniversary of Allen Iverson and reflect his personality, style as well as his signature cornrows.

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The campaign was shot and included Hall of Famer Iverson's wife, Tawanna as well as his three daughters. The three don matching tan sweatsuits to bring his style and distinct look to life.  

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Reebok

RIP FRANCA SOZZANI, VOGUE ITALIA EDITOR IN CHIEF

This year, a number of great talents passed away and we're sad to hear of the passing of long time Vogue Italia Editor in Chief, Franca Sozzani. In addition to helming the publication, she was also known as a groundbreaking trailblazer who created a number of features and issues that focused on inclusivity and diversity such as the All Black Issue which is still buzzed about to this day. 

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Vogue Italia

HAIR TALK WITH ANTHONY PAZOS

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

LEWD FOODIE | SAVOR THIS

IN OUR BAG: GIFTING TOTE

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 |

OUR TOWN

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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.

Transformation, Punch, Individuality: Iris Apfel

In an industry that is ever changing, fashion (in general) has its standards steeped in norms when it comes to age, race, height, and trends. These ideas create a sense of notions that
surround likely candidates to whom will be successful; however, like anything some rules simply don't apply.

When the fashion community is abuzz around personalities, it's worth noting that Iris Apfel, interior designer, business woman and yes fashion designer - has been doing things the way she has wanted to for well over 90 years! In a discussion with us on what rules she had to get to where she is, she exclaimed, "I don't have any rules, because I would only be breaking them, so it's a waste of time." Whether you see her on HSN with her coveted line - Rara Avis, gracing museums at her own retrospectives, taking over Paris during Fashion Week via Iris Takes Paris, designing a wearable tech line with Wisewear, giving talks to those who are inspired by her words or posing for a number of brands as a collaborator and/or face of the brand - she is doing things her way.

Although she creates a frenzy when she is out and about, she is very candid about herself. "I don't like pretty. I never felt pretty. I don't feel it now - I'm not a pretty person, but I don't feel badly. It worked out well, because I found that all the girls I know who got by on their looks, as time went on and they faded, they were nothing. And they were very disappointed. When you're somebody like myself, in order to get around and be attractive, you have to develop something, you have to learn something, you have to do something. So you become a bit more interesting."

This ethos personifies the way that Iris found herself in the most interesting circles. Her eclectic interests led her to work at Women's Wear Daily, as an assistant to interior designer Elinor Johnson, and even as an assistant to illustrator, Robert Graham.

She married Carl Apfel in 1948, two years later, they launched textile house Old World Weavers, which allowed them to travel the world and she continued to infuse her sense of style by buying non-Western pieces and artisanal clothing. "My husband used to say that I looked at a piece of fabric and would listen to the threads. It tells me a story. I have to get a physical reaction when I buy something - a bolt of lightning. It’s fun to get
knocked out that way!"

With such inspiration at her disposal, one can only wonder how many times she was struck when she also had the opportunity to work at the White House on an array of restoration products for nine presidents (Harry S. Truman, Dwight Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, and Bill Clinton).

With such a strong background and sense of self, it's the amount of projects that she has embraced that continues to open her up to audiences that may not have been privvy to the
indelible mark that she has left in fashion and pop culture.

"I see myself as the world's oldest living teenager... I try to get as much kick out of things as possible," which can be seen with a number of her collaborations that she has done in partnerships with brands such as Macy's INC line which brings her style to this on trend
brand. Pieces included her play of fabrication, mixing textures and of course - you can't talk about Iris and style without including her accessories, "I get more compliments on accessories
than anything else. I think they're kind of like herbs and spices. They give zest and zing to an outfit."

Her love of style (as this is something that one should aim for as it embodies your personality) can be seen in the way she shared an anecdote with us about her mother. "My mother worshipped at the alter of accessories and I got the bug. She always said, if you have a good, little, simple black dress and you have different accessories, you can have 27 different outfits."

At 95, there are clearly no signs of stopping for this lady of style. In addition to seeing her pop up in campaigns for Alexis Bittar and Kate Spade, - she is honored in a multitude of ways. Last year, her documentary, Iris included her late husband Carl and brought her to the big screen. This year she was honored with the Women Together Special Award of the Year at the 12th Annual Women Together Gala at the United Nations, alongside Rosario Dawson, The Punta Cana Foundation and the Loewe Foundation.

Iris' style will also have a permanent home in The Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion History in Boynton Beach, Florida as designs are currently underway for a dedicated gallery that will house her clothing, accessories, and furnishings.

Who knows what's next for this 95 year old cover girl?

SCIENCE & MUSIC MERGE

Once again, science pops up and embraces a bit of pop culture (earlier this week, we shared a bit of science and Harry Potter). Researchers from San Diego State University (SDSU plant biologist Michael Simpson and former SDSU graduate student Mark Dodero) and UC Sana Cruz (UCSC Stephen McCabe) found a new and rare species of succulent that was discovered in Mexico - that was named after one of their favorite rockstars, Jimi Hendrix. The plant's name "Dudleya hendrixii" translates into "Hendrix’s liveforever.” This plant is found only on a tiny sliver of Baja California, called the Colonet peninsula.

The plant is thin, stalky plant and is less than a foot tall with succulent leaves and brilliant pinkish white flowers. During the summer it dies and then re-sprouts again in the fall. Mark was listening to "Voodoo Child" when he came across the plant and he and Stephen decided to name it after the musical icon.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | San Diego State University

Farewell Craig Sager

Photography Courtesy | NBA on TNT

When we think of the countless basketball games we watched, it was always about hearing the game through Craig Sager, an amazing sports reporter as well as a man that truly brought his fashion game to the court and was respected by athletes, trainers, coaches and more. We enjoyed watching him on TBS and TNT sharing his thoughts on our favorite teams in the NBA.

This year, Craig was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Craig was diagnosed in 2014 with acute myeloid leukemia which forced him to miss the 2014 season (his son filled in for him to broadcast the games). Although he went into remission, he ultimately succumbed to the disease after a strongly fought battle.

He passed away earlier this evening at the age of 65 and was memorialized during that evening's broadcast of Milwaukee Bucks vs Chicago Bulls on the Inside the NBA pregame show. The players of each team wore his tribute shirt during warmups (the shirts looked like the suits that he was known for).

His commitment to the sport, his respect among many within and outside of the sport - as well as people rocking his sense of style are immense. We will miss his voice in the NBA.

Craig Sager was inducted into the Sports Broadcaster Hall of Fame and receives hugs from Vice President Joe Biden, Charles Barkley, Reggie Miller, and Shaq

SCIENCE & POP CULTURE MERGE

We love when worlds collide and today, a new species of Spider was found within the genus Eriovixia which contains 20 species of orb-weaving spider and is widely distributed across Asia and Africa.

Found in a shrub in Karnataka, India the above female spider is grayish brown and leaf shaped. Its resemblance to other members of its genus showed that its differential of it's genitalia and exoskeleton meant that it should be a new species.  The scientists noted that the name choice was derived from "an effort to draw attention to the fascinating, but oft overlooked world of invertebrates and their secret lives," E. gryffindori is meant to be "an ode from the authors, for magic lost, and found." 

Of course they shared the name with Harry Potter author, J.K. Rowling (whose response you can see below via Twitter) as well as their full findings that were published in the Dec. 2016 issue of the Indian Journal of Arachnology.

.@curiocritters I'm truly honoured! Congratulations on discovering another #FantasticBeast! 👉🕷✨ pic.twitter.com/NJ4Fe27F1r

— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) December 11, 2016

For the Walk & Chat #Athspo

There's nothing more NY, than brownstone filled streets (regardless of the borough that you call home). These neighborhoods with these homes add an element of old world style. Whether you opt to hang out on your stoop or to do a walk and chat with your bestie, it's the best excuse to catch up on the latest gossip, while doing some light to moderate workout. Even if you do this on the way to your workout studio of choice - who doesn't love a proper catch up with friends as we begin to rock fun layers.

EMI JAY

BZEES

NICE PIPES

ON RUNNING

NUTS ABOUT YOU

MADEBY FRESSKO

BIENA SNACKS

| BZEES Vivacious | BIENA SNACKS Chickpea Snacks - Various Flavors | MADE BY FRESSKO
Onyx Fressko Flask | ON RUNNING On Cloudracer | NICE PIPES Leg Warmers | EMI JAY
Hair Bands | NUTS ABOUT YOU Green Tea Almonds | BROWNSTONE PHOTO CREDIT UnSplash