I was in Oprah Magazine!

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As some of you may remember. I had the privilege of being featured in the November 2020 issue of O Magazine. As I was reflecting on this experience this week, I was reminded of the importance of self-belief.

To tell you the truth, when I first got the email, I was so surprised I thought it was a hoax! I was so thankful at the end of this process, and the experience was so humbling. Because, before this, I wasn’t entirely confident in my ability to have a positive impact through my work here. In the end, the experience was so humbling and so affirming for me. It was a beautiful time from start to finish. And everything came together to create an experience that I wouldn’t trade for the world.

Days before the shoot, I was sent a huge trunk of garments to try on. Having the opportunity to get back to basics and focus solely on self-expression was wonderful. And, I was so excited to see that many of the pieces were from brands that I’ve been in love with for quite some time. Specifically, Norma Kamali, Brunello Cucinelli, Lafayette 148, and COS to name a few. I like that the Norma Kamali line has a section of Gender-Fluid clothing. Also that Norma has stepped out of the box and is inclusive not only with gender but also with age.

I’m sure you’ve taken notice of my love for curating a sustainable closet. And Lafayette 148 is just as committed to sustainability. (All the way down to ensure the proper treatment of the sheep who produce the wool used to create their garments!) In the end, we decided on this beautiful pinstripe suit from Norma Kamali, and the Rust-colored Cashmere ensemble from Lafayette148 that was featured in the article.

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We shot in my home. This was something I was incredibly nervous about, as we were in the process of completing renovations in the front, as well as the back of the house. All of my concerns completely melted away as I saw the results of the shoot. Being able to point to the photographs and say “This is me, in my dining room, in O magazine.” is ridiculously cool. And, even cooler than that, is how it all came together.

When I first heard the term “virtual shoot” for O Magazine being used to describe how we were going to be accomplishing that date, I was more than a little bit confused. And, hilariously, almost everyone else seemed to be as well. While reflecting, I was also encouraged by our capacity for resilience, as the concept of “virtual fashion” really came to life throughout this process. We were able to keep the feeling of a traditional shoot alive while adhering to safety precautions due to the pandemic. We had a zoom meeting before the beginning of the shoot, where we listened to music, and we were able to talk about how interesting and unique this “situation” was. One of the cameramen, Todd, used his phone and a tripod as the photographer, Sami Drasin was able to see us, direct us, and take snapshots remotely from where she was in Los Angeles. Crazy right?

Perseverance is so important, especially when we don’t feel confident in our ability to make an impact on the world around us. Encouragement can come from unexpected places. And it’s up to us to keep our hearts open to receiving that encouragement. Working on this project was so impactful for me. And I loved having the opportunity to meet and interact with so many beautiful people.

This experience turned my heart and my eyes to all of the possibilities the future holds. Sometimes, encouragement can come from the places we would never expect!

XO

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Photographer/ Sami Drasin

Rust Sleeveless Turtle Neck

Long Wrap Rust Cardigan

Rust Sequinned Trousers

Shoes/similar here

Pin Striped Jacket

Pin Striped Trousers

White Leather Mules