Sloane Magazine Winter 2010 by Dana Industries

Special!

sloane’s 2010 Most Influential Women

Working Girl:

Can women hold onto the new power shift of the recession economy?

“Chloe is My Alias”

We go beyond the hype to find out how this annonymous blogger is redefining 21st century sexuality...

50+ pages of inspiring fashion... Tips from the Pros:

Over 30 pages of insider tips and links for clothing, beauty, home decor, cooking, fitness, books, career and more!

Winter 2010

contents

8 9

Contributors

10 18 20 22 24 74 78

Essentials Winter’s essentials by Coco + Kelley blogger Cassandra LaValle.

Letter from the Editor

In Every Issue

Vanities Beauty Expert, Andrea Ducharme’s tips for creating the ultimate, complementary look for your holiday party outfit.

PRODUCTS Makeup artist, Ann Marie Laurendeau, selects the latest products to look your best this winter.

accessories Great winter picks and holiday baubles by Denver dilletant May Wilson.

Furnishings Unique holiday gift ideas from shop owner and blogger Annie Crowninshield.

City guide East Coast / West Coast: two jetset, professional women report on what’s hot in their ‘hoods.

READS Book Reviewer, publicist and journalist, Jocelyn Kelley, recommends what’s new in print.

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Part mind. Part body. All women. 7 DAY PASS >

First time visitors only. Pass expires 11/30/10.

Back Bay 617.859.7700

Cambridge 617.497.4454

Salem 978.745.7390

Brookline 617.731.3030

Chestnut Hill 617.383.6100

www.healthworksfitness.com www.healthworksfoundation.org

Winter 2010

contents

In Every Issue

Rants Amber West tells it like it is.

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Dialogs Katie Mendelson conducts a Q&A with annonymous blogger “Chloe Is My Alias” of So I Met this Guy...

SWEATS Mariel MacNaughton reports on what’s hot in fitness. This issue: diversify your workout routine.

reflections Marique Newell finds some time for gratitude in a year, and season, of chaos.

LUSTs Publisher, Dana Córdova’s lusts of the season. Because, well, we all want things...

**SPECIAL sloane’s 2010 most influential women** We polled our contributors from the past year to compile a list of 20 women we feel have redefined the role of women in their field.

Working Girl TV Host Joanne Colan investigates the new power shift in the workplace and questions how we can keep our market share even after the economy improves.

Brand: you Lauren Zirilli and Jeanine Heller of ICD Consulting speak to the importance of branding yourself and maintaining your public idendity.

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Features 26

Publisher / Editor Dana Córdova Design / Photo Editor Dana Córdova Assistant Editor Colleen Reilly Marketing Rachel Texeira Technical Advisor Luke Peters Special Thanks / Unofficial Advisory Board: Raul Córdova, Casey Hatchett, Vanessa Peck, Ben Tregoe, Adam Wynne, Alan Wynne Advertising Sales: advertising@sloanemag.com Interested in Getting Involved? Please send your idea pitch to editorial@sloanemag.com with the subject line: Ideas for the urbane. Join the Mailing List! mail@sloanemag.com © 2010 sloane Usage, mention or reproduction of any content within this publication MUST link back to: www.sloanemag.com (basically, this means: we’d love for you to talk about sloane, but just be courtious, give us credit and a link.)

Usage License: Attribution-NoncommercialNo Derivative Works 3.0 United States, Creative Commons. To Share: to copy, distribute and transmit the work under the following conditions: Attribution: You must attribute the work in the manner specified by the author or licensor (but not in any way that suggests that they endorse you or your use of the work). Noncommercial: You may not use this work for commercial purposes. No Derivative Works: You may not alter, transform, or build upon this work.

Winter 2010

contents

Fashion

Winter fashion guide Stylist Maria Vasilevsky challenges us to be stylish and warm, fashionable and comfortable even when the temperature drops.

38 52 64

Southland Lady-like details meets So-Cal casualâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;on location in San Diego, CA.

town & Country Gorgeous, classic looks to take you from the city to a crisp weekend in the country.

new. wave. A fresh, neorealismo take on European cool.

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contributors

Carly Petrone is a freelance writer living in New York City. Read her weekly reviews of the “Best Of New York” on www.cbsnewyork.com. She’s recently contributed to InStyle Magazine’s annual Web Guide as well as the new online publication Claph Magazine. Follow her blog about life in the big city at carlydoesnewyork.tumblr.com and www.carlypetrone.blogspot.com.

Betania Kelly is a freelance creative director and fashion stylist known for her prediction of trends and flexible creativity on location. Along with her indecisiveness in whether to mimic the style of Winona Ryder in Reality Bites or Katharine Hepburn in Bringing Up Baby, she also possesses severe wanderlust, currently exploring the beach town of Encinitas, CA. www.betaniakelly.com

Luca and Lara from Photoreclame are a team of photographers working with enthusiasm, knowledge and a big passion for photography. Based in Parma they have worked in advertising, fashion and product stills. In their work they always seak out new solutions for an original and creative approach. www.photoreclame.com

Della Bass was born in Sydney, Australia and started taking pictures whilst living in Japan in the mid 90’s. She relocated to Milan, where she remained for 5 years. She currently resides in New York City. Her clients include Nylon Magazine, Anthem, Hamptons Magazine, In Style, Penguin, and Free People. www.dellabass.com

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Aaron Feaver is a photographer living and working in Los Angeles, California. When he’s not taking pictures he enjoys skee-ball, pizza and animatronic singing animals…pretty much anything and Chuck E. Cheese. www.feaverishphotography.com

letter from the editor The Career Issue has, in truth, been in development since I started sloane. It has been, is, and I hope it to be, all that its title conveys. An ode to the working women of the world. As an ambitious woman myself, I’ve constantly sought out others whom I admire—who inspire me—and, who seem to do the impossible.

Dana Córdova Editor/Publisher

With the help of my advisors, and writer Carly Petrone, I shuffled through lists and lists of women we admired. They got shorter, longer, shorter and on it went until I struck upon the one unifying quality that seemed most important in order for them to make the cut: they needed to be models of the very line I wrote in sloane’s mission statement at the start of this venture. “sloane seeks to address the 21st century woman who is redefining traditional female roles.” Thus, our 2010 Most Influential Women, finally came down to the 20 feature on page 26. Further delving into the concept for Working Girl, Joanne Colan researches the current state of women in the workforce. Her findings are both heartening and cautionary as we seek to hold onto, what I hope, isn’t just a circumstantial gain. With this in mind I hope you’ll also enjoy the tips presented by consulting duo Lauren Zirilli and Jeanine Heller in Brand: YOU. Women are natural masters of communication, networking and image making—I hope that you find their ideas useful in furthering your own career.

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As always, there is lots of gorgeous photography, fashion, beauty tips, and over 300 links to shopping resources online. All from trusted and respected experts in their fields. As I write this on the eve of putting the Winter issue to bed, (figuratively that is, as I will not be going to bed tonight) I feel all the more focused on why sloane has worked. The large majority of my contributors are females who impress, guide and humble me daily in creating this magazine (not that I don’t appreciate your hardwork too guys). I found out early on—and reflect upon it now with even greater reverence—that this project simply could not exist without my contributors. I know this, I celebrate this, and that is why I have always made it a part of the project to fully acknowledge each contributor as an individual rather than weave them into a larger, over riding, editorial voice. I hope that you will notice that every contributor’s name links directly to their own personal site and I encourage you to learn more about what they do. Empower yourself and empower each other. Regards, Dana Córdova Editor/Publisher

essentials

Blogger, Cassandra LaValle, picks the season’s top essentials.

1 1. Iomoi coasters 4/$95 Entertaining has never been so bright! I love an excuse to monogram or add a personal touch around the house, and these coasters are the perfect opportunity. Not to mention they cheerfully remind guests to use them! 2. J.Crew Coat $325 Bright colors to bundle up in make the winter weather a little less bleak. The classic tailoring of this coat is perfect in a bold orange! Remember, when opting for a color like this, clean and simple lines are the best way to go. 3. Barney’s Pillow $135 Part of our holiday decor always includes changing out the pillows in the living room, but instead of something overly themed, why not display a very appropriate and celebratory ‘cin cin’!? Plus, you can let it stay on the sofa way past the holidays.

4. Rebecca Norman Black Diamond Ring $158 The holidays are all about sparkle, and your halls shouldn’t be the only thing decked out with a little glitz! Dress up your little black dress by adding a beautiful new bauble like this one. 5. Jonathan Adler Candle $38 Nothing evokes warm winter memories like the combined scent of pine and evergreen trees with cinnamon and cloves in this joyful little candle. The shimmering vessel is simply a bonus!

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6. Madewell Sequin Dress $228 Dazzle them with a smoldering sequin number! The modest shape of this dress elevates the sophistication of this gorgeous piece, making it perfectly acceptable for the family christmas party or a wild new year’s eve.

7. C&B Champagne Flutes $11.95 each (sale $7.95!) The gold detailing on these perfectly shaped champagne flutes makes toasting friends and family a little more special. And their affordability makes them easy to stock up on so nobody’s left with the odd glass out. 8. Madewell Earmuffs $32 Embrace the fur trend with a subtle addition to your wardrobe - a fuzzy pair of earmuffs! The best part? You won’t have to muss up your hair with a big ‘ol hat either.

Cassandra Lavalle began her career in event planning in 2002, moving into interior design in 2007 when she began her then blog (now business) coco+kelley. Exploring trends in fashion, decor, and entertaining, coco+kelley has received praise and recognition from publications like Martha Stewart, Lucky Magazine, and the New York Times. Cassandra lives in Seattle, WA where she also works as a Home Merchandiser for Anthropologie.

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coverings

Winter Fashion Guide >>

stylist and Stilista cofounder, Maria Vasilevsky’s hot winter style for a cool season.

This is a time of year when you are tempt-

ed to give up on fashion in favor of focusing on staying warm. Who can blame you? For many of us, winter can serve up every weather inconvenience under the sun. Endless sheepskin boots, ski attire off the slopes, shapeless down coats, fleece hats and bulky sweaters... This winter, I challenge you to be stylish and warm, fashionable and comfortable. December brings about family dinners and holiday parties, and the dressier selections below are perfect for all festivities. For work, I’ve included some beautiful clothing and footwear options. Some new outerwear ideas and soft, casual looks are also yours to consider. Pour yourself a steaming mug of hot cocoa, and enjoy all the choices this season has to offer!

Who’s’ Ready to Party? ABS Animal Print Puff Shoulder Dress $245.00 Leopard print has been huge this season, and the ladies that dare to wear it convey an image of power and confidence. The classy sheath silhouette and the longer sleeve balance out this daring print. Stella Mccartney Lace-covered pumps $645 What is sexier than lace? These pumps have so much more oomph than the more classic leather styles you may have worn out before. These shoes pair beautifully with any solid color, but avoid wearing them with other prints to give them the chance to stand out. Matt & Nat Santogold Bag 205.00 At Stilista, we love eco-friendly style options! This bag is vegan and cruelty-free, not to mention adorable for any festive outing! I love its’ medium size which can go from day to night, as well as the longer chain strap option. Rachel Roy Signature Sheath Dress $395.00 Metallics are great for two reasons: they look glamorous and they are easy to pair with colors and prints. This dress’s color blocking is very flattering to the waist area, and its’ close to the body fit makes it easy to layer a cardigan or short jacket for warmth.

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Professionally Fashionable Kate Spade Mercury Sequined Paulina Cardigan $445 This gorgeous 100% merino wool cardigan works overtime – wear it to work, then layer in on top of a black slinky cami for an evening look. When heading to the office, this piece is perfect with a pencil skirt or wide-leg trousers. Perfect with delicate earrings, but skip the impulse to wear a necklace to avoid bling overkill. Kate Spade Galleria Sammie Dress $475 - Basic LBD with Faux Fur Waist Band For the readers with overheated offices, this sweet dress is will serve you well. The sash detail flatters by drawing attention to the waist. Pair with black or gray opaque tights and riding boots for a professional daytime look. Juicy Couture Flecked Tweed Blazer $298.00 (Now on Sale $149) This blazer’s contemporary fit and striped lining make it a very hip work option and its 72% wool fabric content means that it will keep you warm even if you sit far from the vent! Add a flowing long scarf and slim-fit straight leg pants and you’ve got your cold Monday outfit. A.P.C. Shearling-lined suede boots $470 There is so much function to these stylish wedge boots! The wedge and platform make the boots uber comfy in spite of their significant height, and the shearling lining will keep even the coldest feet warm while you walk to the office. The two-tone suede will accompany most colors in your wardrobe, but don’t forget to protect these beauties with a waterproofing spray every 3-4 weeks to make them hold up for season after season.

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Winter Fashion Guide >> Winter Weekend Wear Joie Cashmere Sweater $288.00 (Now on sale $172.80!) This cozy cashmere sweater features a beautiful drape for that effortless elegant look which is soft and comfy as well! Looks beaitiful with jeans and ankle booties or flat riding boots. Add a medium-length necklace to draw attention to the draped neckline. Patterson J. Kincaid Molly Sweater $248.00 It’s a sweater! It’s a dress! It’s warm and functional! Wear as a dress with tights or leggings, or turn up the volume with over the knee socks. Pair with jeans or riding pants for an even warmer look. Brighten up the look with layered gold necklaces or a bright hair accessory. Wear With > Linea Pelle Vintage Military Belt $132.00 The military trend was by far one of the most prominent trends for fall. Keep it going for the winter by adding this handy belt to your wardrobe. This versatile rugged belt will look fabulous on many a dress, on top of a chunky cardigan or jacket. Or, add it on top of a feminine, frilly dress to juxtapose the look! Max and Chloe Allison Daniel Leaf and Jet Agate Ring, $84.00 As a larger statement ring, this piece adds a lot to an outfit! Wear it with your favorite jeans and sweater combo for instant glamour.

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A Few Good Coats Your coat is the first thing people see when they meet you for at least 4 months out of the year! Have a little fun with the style and color, like these options. Victorialand Overlay Coat with Faux Fur Collar $498.00 The neutral smoky gray tones and the two length options make this coat super versatile, and the faux fur collar and zipper details make it uber-stylish and great for long city walks . A.P.C. Wool cape coat $620 This coat combines the fashionable cape detail with a very classic English plaid pattern. Pair with buttery brown leather gloves and a bright colored umbrella. Added bonus – there’s a hood for those extra cool days. Hidden Getaway Jacket $169.99 This darling short coat is perfect for driving around town, or for those in-between weather days! I love the asymmetric zip, and the cozy plaid pattern. The pronounced collar on this jacket is ideal for pear-shaped ladies, as it draws the eye upward. Beautiful with jeans, dress pants or a skirt, this coat is a bargain that will take you from winter, right into the cooler spring days.

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Winter Fashion Guide >> Accessories Assortment Alexander Wang Wool Scarf with Leather Pockets $375.00 This is a whole lot of scarf, and the pockets are just the cherry on top! Wear this on top of your colorful long-sleeve tees to contras the bright colors, or drape on top of a slinky going out top for that much needed extra layer. Missoni Circle Scarf, Nordstrom $198.00 Circle scarves are everywhere this winter. You can wear them long as a single circle, doubled-up (shown) or wrap the top circle around your head for a hooded look. The Missoni knit is a beautiful option that’s not too bulky and heavy. Marc by Marc Jacobs Leather-n-Lace Gloves $78.00 Fingerless gloves are the epitome of street chic this season! Layer them under your leather jacket for an edgy, rock and roll look, or wear with your favorite dress coat for a dressed up outerwear look.

Maria Vasilevsky is the co-founder and Managing Partner of Stilista, LLC, senior fashion stylist and group style educator. She has 10 years experience working with individuals’ wardrobe goals and leading workshops and training sessions of 10 – 350 attendees. Along with Stilista management, Maria has developed a unique process for addressing wardrobe challenges that works for clients of varied lifestyles, sizes and budgets. Maria frequently attends fashion and style events and reads related publications in order to expand her knowledge to better serve her clients. www.stilistaboston.com

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15 Charles Street Beacon Hill Massachusetts www.therubydoor.com 617.720.2001

vanities

Beauty expert, Andrea Ducharme on complementing your holiday outfit with makeup.

An invitation to a holiday

party arrives and you are thinking about what to wear, including makeup. The textures of clothes are richer, the colors more opulent and the makeup needs to compliment without overpowering the entire look...

My favorite way to add some sparkle to a holiday ensemble is to think about whether you will be wearing either gold, pearl, black or silver accessories and simply design the makeup around that.

Perhaps some gold shadow swept across the lids paired with a rich plum or red lip, or maybe some violet eyeshadow offset with a silvery lip gloss. Plums, Golds, Violets and Royal Blues are all featured in the Holiday Collections of MAC, Chanel, Dior and Versace this year in very wearable yet elegant ways.

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The Dolce and Gabbana collection is somewhat unexpected for Holiday yet with it’s creamy beige lips and amplified eyes it looks rich and reminds me of classic holiday movies featuring decadent costumes and sets.

The Red Lip paired with a flick of black liquid eye liner will always be my personal favorite to wear to any holiday gathering, just add the little black dress and some satin pumps and enjoy the celebration.

In Andrea Ducharme’s 18+ year career in the makeup industry, she has had the pleasure and honor to represent Clinique, Estee Lauder, Trish McEvoy, MAC and Rouge Cosmetics. She has received many awards and acknowledgments, including being named one of Boston’s five top makeup artists by Fashion Boston Magazine. Andrea works several celebrities to ensure they look their best at their personal appearances and on television. She is also the co-founder of The Makeup Artists: www.themakeupartists.com

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products

Makeup Artist, Ann Marie Laurendeau, selects the latest products to look your best. Hot HOLIDAY Products

A desire to dazzle is the goal of every woman attending a holiday party. Although too often working women are pressed for time trying to fit everything into an already overwhelming schedule. This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beauty products offer you 3 easy ways to rev up your everyday makeup style into a flawless and festive look in minutes. Have Fun! Long and Beautiful Eyelashes Ever since the eyelash enhancer Latisse was introduced, products that lengthen and thicken your lashes have been in high demand by women wanting to ditch their eye lash curlers and spend less time applying mascara. These eyelash enhancers work well, cost less, and do not require a prescription. 1. Lash ReLonge, Eyelash Lengthener $99.99 2. RevitaLash, Eyelash Conditioner $52.97 3. Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Oreal, Lash Boosting Serum $14. 99

3 Photo, Donis Perkins / Styling, Ann Marie Laurendeau

1 5 2

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8 Conceal and Camouflage These are two completely different products. Both musthaves quickly erase imperfections and add new life to your complexion. Most concealers have a light-weight consistency and work well under the eye area only. Camouflage creams are thicker and provide longer-lasting coverage. Camouflage creams are better suited for those with very tired or dark under eye circles, spider veins, age spots and rosacea. 4. Laura Mercier, Flawless Fix Pencil $20 5. Benefit, Stay Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Stray Concealer & Shadow Primer $24 6. Estee Lauder, Maximum Cover Camouflage Make-up $29.50 7. Smart Cover, Camouflage Cream $15 The Glistening Effect What holiday makeup application would be complete without a touch of shimmer or shine? This can be easily achieved by layering a product that glistens over your existing eye, lip or face makeup. Shimmer can be worn on women of all ages. The trick to wearing shine beautifully is to apply it onto one area of your face so it complements the rest of your makeup. 8. NYX Chrome Eye Shadow, Mimosa $6 9. Becca Cosmetics, Shimmering Skin Perfector, Pearl $40 10. Lola Cosmetics, High Shine Lip Gloss, Front Row $18

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Ann Marie Laurendeau is a makeup artist, hair stylist, educator, and writer with more than 20 years experience. In 1995 she founded Anemone Makeup and in 2006 launched her own line of allnatural, mineral-based cosmetics which includes makeup and skin care products. Throughout her career, Ann Marie has provided makeup and hairstyling for many well-known corporate clients, celebrities, and public figures. Based in Boston, she frequently travels throughout New England, New York and beyond for media, destination weddings, and events.

accessories

Denver dilettante May Wilson’s top accessory picks for winter.

1. Ruby Door, Gumdrop Vintage Earring $45 I do love the jewel tones of the holiday season, but a little splash goes a long way, which is why I love these earrings! I think these little gems would be a great accessory with a party dress or, for only $45, you can make a friend’s year and give them as a gift! 2. Roarke, Le Charlot $395 This is probably my most coveted item of the season (hint, hint, Mr. Wilson...)! This young designer out of New York also happens to be a friend and her career is skyrocketing—this piece was last seen on Invanka Trump. The bedazzled scarf/necklace will compliment any occasion and any outfit—especially that holiday party dress that gets a little boring by the end of the season. 3. Michael Kors, Tortoise Bezel Watch $195 Dear Mr. Kors, I hope this note finds you well. I think you should stop wasting your time on clothing and shoes and focus strictly on watches. You have a gift for making beautiful, reasonably priced, well made timepieces and I love you for it. Sincerely, May.

4. Stella McCartney, leopard Intersia Beanie $275 (on sale $ 192.50) If you have opened a magazine in the last 3 months you know that leopard has crossed its way from the fall right into the winter and I have to say I feel vindicated because I never let it go. I think this is the PERFECT winter hat. I was initially skeptical about the beanie, but after trying it out dare I say, “super cute.” 5. Tory Burch, Wrap Louisa Belt $250 (on sale $175) I may be getting in touch with my inner Solid Gold dancer, but I love this belt. My greatest complaint about my winter wardrobe is that it is weighed down by a lot of black, gray and neutrals—I love pieces like this can take so many outfits up about 10 notches.

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6. Club Monaco, Anne Driving Gloves $79 I never thought I would say the words gloves and sexy in the same sentence—but there I said it. Something about these little black driving gloves are fierce. Sometimes all it takes is an accessory to make a woman feel a little more empowered.

7. Intermix, Kara Ross Circle Eclipse Earrings $150 Last season was the revival of the gold chunky bracelet and this season it is definitely a chunky pair of gold earrings. I love the complexity of the design, but think they are simple enough to where with jeans and a sweater. I think these earring would be a purchase you would never regret. 8. Rachel Zoe for QVC, Snake Cuff $44 First, let me start by saying, Rachel Zoe is the queen of accessories. Just when I think there is no way it is a good idea to wear a bracelet, 3 rings, a watch, a scarf and an anklet—she pulls it off... I bow my head to you, Rachel. Needless to say I was a little shocked to be hunting her down on QVC, but don’t let that scare you. I spent hours on the site and there are so many great finds! This piece in particular is so chic and reminiscent of Cartier—but I don’t even think you could use the bathroom at Cartier for under $50.

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May Gardner Wilson currently resides in Denver, CO working on decorating projects ranging from pillow fluffing to home re-models. She also is involved with a variety of local and international charities. Prior to Denver, May worked as a designer with Charlotte Moss in New York City. Her pride and joy is her pug Lola who patiently observes her constant desire to look her best!

furnishings

Shop owner and blogger, Annie Crowninshield, suggests unique gifts for the holidays. In between Fa-la-la-la-la-la

and the jingle of bells is the faint cry of I want, I want, I want, gimme gimme gimme... But what?! From hostesses to husbands, old friends to the office swap; these gifts will get you on the good list and bring a little more joy to the world.

1. Classic Train Set (various prices) A holiday morning tradition that should never die... 2. Octopus Shelf Decor by Cyan $85 What better way to kick off Chanukah than with an 8 legged accessory.

3. Cire Trudon Candle $75 High end handsome candles that will have the recipient’s eyes all aglow. 4. Light Box by Empiric $150 These limited edition art pieces illuminate one of 9 vintage images. 5. Vintage Barware (various prices) Stand out from the sea of wine bags at the next holiday party. 6. Dog Bed by Furbish Studio $95+ Fun yet sophisticated fabrics and a size for every furry family member, this is one guilt free gift you can buy for “yourself” this season. Heck, get two. 7. Duck Foot Mirror by Cyan $95 A quirky gift for all children... young and old. 8. The Art of Gift Wrapping $25 We’ve all received them, the gifts almost too beautiful to open. With 12 months to practice you’ll wow them....next year!

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Annie CROWNINSHIELD is a Boston native who was born into a family of pioneering modernists. Trained as an artist in France and Mexico, she eventually entered the world of interior design. After starting her own online sofa company in 2005, she became partner of Empiric Inc. in Los Angeles, CA where she dedicates her time contributing to their growing line of new and vintage home furnishings. She also writes the lifestyle blog relishsmallpleasures.blogspot.com

sloane’s 2010

20 Most Influential Women by Carly Petrone

Fifty years ago

there had never been an Academy Awarding winning female director, an African-American First Lady, or a female billionaire. Thankfully today this is a reality. It is with the help of the following twenty fabulous, strong, imaginative, and inspiring women that future generations can dream to accomplish anything.

Oprah Winfrey I think it’s hard to say or hear the words “most powerful women” and not immediately think of Oprah Winfrey. This media mogul was recently named one of the 100 People Who Changed the World by LIFE magazine. She is estimated to be worth $2.7 billion, making her the richest self-made woman in America! She has her nationally syndicated talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show, her monthly magazine O, The Oprah Magazine and O at Home, owns a production company called Harpo Films, and has a XM Satellite Radio channel appropriately called Oprah Radio. She’s also a philanthropist and started Oprah’s Angel Network in 1996 and has raised $80,000,000 for various charities and nonprofit organizations. Although she won’t be hosting her daytime talk show we know she’ll remain a media mogul.

Nancy Pelosi For the first time in history, America’s 60th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives is a woman. That woman is Nancy Pelosi. As Speaker of the House she is second in line to the President (just after the Vice President), making her the highest-ranking female politician in American history. Upon being elected, she had these words to say to Congress, “For our daughters and granddaughters, today, we have broken the marble ceiling. For our daughters and our granddaughters, the sky is the limit, anything is possible for them.” We couldn’t agree more Madam Speaker.

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Lady Gaga Lady Gaga is redefining a generation. Just as Madonna did in the 80’s, Gaga is pushing the boundaries and popularizing trends with her signature avant garde style and ever changing persona. Her fans—fashionably coined little monsters—can’t wait to see which star she’ll collaborate with next. And, she can actually sing! In a time where pop music is overshadowed by synthesizers, her unique and powerful voice is refreshing for audiences of every age. Besides her singing career, Gaga has used her celebrity to promote gay rights and is considered to be a rising gay icon. She called walking in the National Equality March in Washington D.C. “the single most important event in her career.”

Michelle Obama Michelle Obama is using her First Lady status to help raise awareness against childhood obesity and poverty in America today. As the first US African-American First Lady, she is a new example for the younger generation. In 2010, she started the Lets Move campaign to raise a healthier generation of children through nutritional education, implementing active communities, and setting up support networks for families. Mrs. Obama has planted an organic garden and setup bee hives on the South Lawn of the White House and has been compared to Jackie Kennedy when it comes to her sophisticated style. Women have every reason to look up to Michelle Obama. She’s a mother, lawyer, advocate, philanthropist, trendsetter, and most importantly, a role model for African-American women—and, for all women throughout the world.

Angelina Jolie She may be known as an Academy Award winning actress in Hollywood but to refugees around the world she is changing their lives. Jolie is using her celebrity to promote humanitarian causes around the globe. As a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees she has visited over 20 countries to meet with refugees and make others aware of their plight. She has put millions into her own Jolie/Pitt Foundation in order to help various organizations like Doctors Without Borders and Global Action for Children. She regularly attends World Refugee Day in Washington D.C., has spoken at the World Economic Forum, and has lobbied humanitarian interests in the U.S. capital. This mother of six is showing her children the world and how to help those in need.

Sonia Sotomayor Born in the Bronx, the first Hispanic U.S. Supreme Court Justice dealt with the loss of her father at the age of 9 and was raised by her mother in the projects. A determined teenager, she received a full scholarship to attend Princeton University and later earned her J.D. from Yale Law School in 1979. Sotomayor has blazed an abitious trail from Assistant District Attorney for New York, to private practice and eventual nomination to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York by former President Bush in 1991. In 2009, the United States Senate confirmed her nomination for appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court by a vote of 68-31. Sotomayor is not only a successful lawyer and judge, she’s also taught lectures at Princeton and New York University Law Schools.

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sloane’s 2010

20 Most Influential Women “For our daughters and our granddaughters, the sky is the limit, anything is possible for them.” —Nancy Pelosi Anna Wintour Vogue magazine is Anna Wintour. She is the mastermind behind the everevolving fashion publication. As Editor-and-Chief, she has final say on everything from storyboards to who should be on the cover each month. Fashion designers hold their breath when the woman with the short bob and big black glasses sits in the front row of their runway shows. She can make or break a career and has been nicknamed “Nuclear Wintour.” Although she’s tough and known to be one of the least friendly women in the fashion industry, she knows what sells, what trends are up and coming, and who the next great designer will be. She’s a force to be reckoned with yet editors, stylists, models, designers, and celebrities are more than willing to work with her. Without Anna Wintour, fashion wouldn’t have such a presence in the world today.

Tyra Banks Before becoming the first African-American model to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Tyra Banks had a dream: She wanted to have her own talk show. In 2005 that dream came true, when she launched The Tyra Banks Show. In 2008 she won her first Daytime Emmy. She’s relatable, inspiring, and making a difference in how girls and women perceive themselves. After a lucrative career in modeling, she retired at the age of 32 to pursue producing fulltime. She started the popular television series America’s Next Top Model where she acts as judge, executive producer, and host. Tyra is definitely on her way to becoming a mogul with her net worth at $90 million.

Serena Williams As one of the most accomplished and recognized women in professional tennis, she has won more prize money than any other female athlete in history. She’s worn two Olympic gold medals around her neck, started her own line of clothing and accessories, become part owner of the Miami Dolphins (with her famous sister Venus), and has even gone back to cosmetology school to become a licensed manicurist. In between conquering the tennis courts and being a normal 29 year-old, she founded the Serena Williams Secondary School in Matooni, Kenya and wrote a best selling autobiography entitled On The Line. It seems like Serena can do just about anything both on and off the court.

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Tina Fey As Alec Baldwin stated in his Emmy winning speech, “Tina Fey is the Elaine May of her generation.” He couldn’t be more right. Tina’s giving little girls everywhere a reason to dream of becoming a television writer. In a field known for being a boys club, Tina’s proven she’s one funny woman. Hailing from Chicago’s prestigious improv theatre, Second City, the first female head writer for Saturday Night Live made audiences laugh for over six years. She has also written and starred in hit movies such as, Baby Mama and Mean Girls. Currently, Tina is conquering the sitcom world as executive producer, Emmy winning writer, and star of the hit NBC show 30 Rock. This actress, writer, producer, comedienne, improviser and mother has charted new ground for women in comedy.

Barbara Walters Walters started her career as a writer and researcher for NBC’s The Today Show in 1961. In a time when women weren’t covering “hard news” Walter’s was promoted to Reporter-at-Large developing, writing, and editing her own reports and interviews. In 1979 she joined the news magazine show 20/20 where she stayed until 2009. During that time she interviewed almost every U.S. President and many others from around the world. In 1997, Walter’s co-created The View, which she described as a forum for women of “different generations, background, and views.” She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in June 2007 and was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 30th Annual News and Documentary Emmy Awards. Even at 81 she shows no sign of stopping.

Queen Rania Al Abdullah The Queen of Jordan, is currently a global figure and one of the world’s most powerful women. She’s used her influence to help change the educational system in her country and abroad. In 2008, she launched Madrasati or “My School,” an initiative designed to renovate 500 of Jordan’s public schools. Queen Rania also has a clear global agenda. Ten years ago she was invited by UNICEF to join its Global Leader Initiative where she works alongside other world leaders like Nelson Mandela to help improve the welfare of children. She has been most vocal about correcting misconceptions between the Western and Arab world and even created her own YouTube channel to promote intercultural dialogue among the younger generation. Through her initiatives, Queen Rania is working to improve future generations chance at higher learning.

Chelsea Handler Handler is all kinds of crazy but that’s exactly why we love her. She has no filter, doesn’t care what people think, and is willing to make fun of herself on a daily basis. This youthful yet experienced performer is refreshing, quickwitted, unpredictable, and appealing to college kids and grandmothers alike. E! Entertainment noticed her star quality and has picked up her late night talk show, Chelsea Lately, to run through 2012. Fans love her show so much that she’s currently shooting a pilot based on her staff’s post work antics. At 35 years-old, she’s already a best-selling author, talk show host and standup comedian. With Forbes naming her as one of the World’s Most Powerful Women (#33), she’s definitely getting the last laugh!

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Diane Sawyer After graduating from Wellesley College with a degree in English, Sawyer attended one semester of law school before turning to journalism. She worked for President Nixon and helped him write his memoires after his resignation. She transitioned to on air talent as a political correspondent for CBS News and later became co-anchor of the CBS Morning News with Bill Kurtis in 1981. 60 Minutes eventually hired her where she was a correspondent for five years. She moved to ABC News to co-anchor Primetime Live with Sam Donaldson and also co-anchored for 20/20. In 1999, she returned to morning news as co-anchor for Good Morning America with Charles Gibson. She currently sits behind the desk as anchor of ABC World News where she signs off every night with “I’ll see you right back here tomorrow night.”

Annie Leibovitz Chances are you’ve probably seen a picture taken by Annie Leibovitz. She’s worked with celebrities, Presidents, musicians, artists, British royalty, successful entrepreneurs, and military figures. Leibovitz started her career at Rolling Stone magazine as a staff photographer. Ten years later, as Chief Photographer, she shot one of the most iconic covers with John Lennon and Yoko Ono just hours before he was killed. Her work has been exhibited across America and can currently be seen in Vanity Fair magazine. Leibovitz is a true talent and a woman who merges her personal and professional life seamlessly. As she once stated, “I don’t have two lives, career and personal, but one where assignments and personal pictures are all part of my works.”

Rachel Zoe This fashionista is glamming up Hollywood stars and is currently the go-to girl when editors need to pull the latest looks straight from the runways. Zoe has made a name for herself in the fashion and entertainment industry through hard work and making connections with the right people. Bravo also saw her star potential back in 2008 when they premiered her reality show, The Rachel Zoe Project. This has given viewers and fans across the country a chance to see her styling stars like Kate Hudson, Demi Moore, and Cameron Diaz. She now has so many people interested that she’s starting her own clothing line, has written fashion books, and is a consultant for Piperlime. Zoe has proven that tenacity and a strong work ethic will lead to a long and lucrative career… even if it means wearing high heels everyday.

Lisa Ling Growing up in Sacramento, CA, Ling became one of four hosts for the nationally-syndicated teen magazine show, Scratch. At 18, she joined Channel One News as one of their youngest reporters and anchors. In 1999 she joined the cast of The View on ABC but left after three and half years to focus on international reporting. This led to hosting National Geographic Explorer where she covered the drug war in Columbia and traveled to North Korea as part of a medical missionary group. The documentary was featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show and she was later asked to become a special correspondent for the show. Between all of these jobs, she still managed to fall in love and get married. We look forward to seeing her host her own show on the OWN Network in 2011.

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Tory Burch As someone living the dream of a famous fashion designer, Burch also maintains her role as working mother, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. After working for major fashion labels like Ralph Lauren and Vera Wang, she created a signature line of tunics and ballet flats. It wasn’t long before Oprah Winfrey officially endorsed Tory’s line on her popular talk show. Since that episode aired in 2005, she’s opened 26 boutiques, 4 outlets, and started an online store. Burch’s classic yet innovative style sets her apart from other designers. In 2007, she won the Accessory Brand Launch of the year award from the Accessories Council of Excellence. Hooray for a woman who’s creating a luxury brand at affordable prices.

Nora Ephron Ephron is a mother, wife, author, journalist, and one of the leading female screenwriters in America today. Having written hit movies like When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, and Julie & Julia, she’s proven that women can carry a film to blockbuster heights. As Ephron said herself, “I try to write parts for women that are as complicated and interesting as women actually are.” As the daughter of two screenwriters, it was no surprise that Ephron became one. She started as a journalist for the New York Post, where she was the first to break the news of Bob Dylan’s marriage to Sara Lownds. She then went on to writing a monthly column for Esquire magazine. Currently, she is a regular blogger for the popular site, The Huffington Post. No matter what Ephron is writing, you know it will involve a strong female voice.

Kathryn Bigelow Bigelow and Steven Spielberg have one thing in common. They’ve both won an Academy Award for Best Director. The major difference is that Kathryn is the first woman to ever to win this title after 82 years of Oscar ceremonies. She received this honor for The Hurt Locker, which was also recognized as Best Picture in 2009. Maybe she picked up a trick or two from her ex-husband, James Cameron, who was also nominated for Best Director the year she won. Hailing from Northern California she graduated from The San Francisco Art Institute with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting. She eventually made her way back east to study film at Columbia University. There, she learned theory and criticism and earned her master’s degree. This Ivy Leaguer is putting female directors on the map and we are thanking her for it. s

Photo Credits: Nora Ephron: http://jefferyself.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/nora-ephron1.jpg / Michelle Obama: www.mayorswellnesscampaign.org Rachel Zoe: www.jacbeauty.com / Diane Sawyer: www.grrlplanet.com / Barbara Walters: www.exposay.com / Tina Fey: www.myspace.com Lisa Ling: www.flickriver.com / Oprah Winfrey: www.todaymybirthday.com / Annie Leibovitz: www.wikipedia.com / Nancy Pelosi: www.wikipedia.com / Angelina Jolie: www.wikipedia.com / Sonia Sotomayor: www.wikipedia.com / Anna Wintour: www.gawker.com Tyra Banks: www.tvfanatic.com / Serena Williams: www.telegraph.co.uk / Queen Rania of Jordan: www.earabgirls.com / Chelsea Handler: www.behindblondiepark.com / Tory Burch: www.toryburch.com / Kathryn Bigelow: www.guardian.co.uk / Lady Gaga: www.read-news.info

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Working Girl F

By Joanne Colan

or the first time ever in US history, women now make up half or almost half of the workforce. It is an unprecedented female to male labor force ratio and is considered by some a game-changer on the socio-economic landscape. Naturally, there have been a lot of attention-grabbing headlines—The End of Men; Women Wield Increasing Power; Women Will Rule the World; It’s A Women’s World—however, the historical change is because the recession hit men harder, with higher rates of unemployment. Not, as we women may wish, because the dawn of a new age of equality is upon us. But before we put away our laptops and reach for our aprons, let’s consider the data and see what the future might hold for us working girls.

now earns more than her husband; and 59% of college degrees are awarded to women. So what do these percentages mean exactly? What is really behind the numbers?

You may remember the term “mancession” adopted by the media last year, as the recession got underway and unemployment data was put under the microscope. The term was used to characterize the effect of the economic downturn on men who have been harder hit than women due to the nature of industries most affected by large scale lay-offs, companies downsizing and business bankruptcy or closure. The manufacturing and construction sectors as well as financial institutions—all In a recent NEC report (National mostly male-dominated—represent Economic Council, a policy coordi- the lions’ share of the 11 million nation arm of the White House) en- jobs lost since the recession began titled “Jobs and Economic Security in 2007. The growth sectors in the for America’s Women,” we learn not last decade, which are downturn reonly that women represent nearly sistant, health care, education and 50% of the workforce in America government, employ more women. today but also, 60% of part-time It’s the reason women’s unemployworkers are women; in more than a ment rate is 7.8% compared to the third of households women are now 9.9% rate for men, and why women the primary breadwinner; in dual are half the workforce for the very income families, one in four wives first time.

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“...in more than a third of households women are now the primary breadwinner.” Reason aside, is the role of women in our economy any different now? Does occupying a fifty percent share in the workforce give women more equality? Or does our making up half the workforce to the detriment of men make us somehow worse off than before? Interestingly, the welfare of women in this economy is fodder for election debate. In the run-up to the November 2nd midterm elections, the Obama administration highlighted the impact its economic policies had on women. Putting economic efforts for women on the White House agenda is a response no doubt to growing dissatisfaction among constituents over recession recovery and the ongoing high rate of unemployment.

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schedules around childcare. Also in dire need of change is the economic gender gap—women still only earn an average of 77 cents on the male dollar. So what effect does the prospect of new policy and fresh perception have? Are we set to make the same money as our men? Or are they to regain their rank and number in the workplace post-recession, only to see women slip back to being notably outnumbered. After all it’s not unimaginable, just look at the precedence.

But that’s not all. History has shown economic depression is often transformative. Society’s major institutions—government, health and education systems, business, the media and faith-based institutions— are forced to respond and adapt to those changes, shift public perception and evolve.

After WWII, the surge of women in the workforce slowed and society returned to its pre-war norm where husbands worked as the primary breadwinner in households and wives largely occupied domestic roles as home-makers and family care-givers. By 1950, only one in three women participated in the labor force. But fundamental changes began to take hold over the next few decades and the structure of developed economies, such as ours and those in Europe, started to transform for good.

We see evidence of this in reports such as Our Working Nation by the Center for American Progress, and the Maria Shriver Report: A Women’s Nation Changes Everything. Renowned policy and academic experts identify key areas where change is needed to make society’s major institutions better adapted to today’s Americans and their families, while also ensuring their own growth and success. The reports also state that new policy roadmaps are needed to provide more flexible work schedules, better paid family and medical leave and options for adjusting work

Over the past 40 years, discrimination has been made illegal, mothers have been granted statutory rights making the duality of career and family more manageable, companies—and let’s face it men—have become more fellow work”man” female-friendly and, more and more women are occupying management and top tier positions. In 1963 Congress passed the Equal Pay Act to prohibit wage discrimination by employers based on sex. In the 1970’s, women began pursuing careers in large numbers for the first time.

“If our 50% share in the workforce is indeed a game-changer, how do we capitalize on it?” More recently, education and social skills have generally been favored over good old-fashioned muscle power, making low-skilled women a valid and sought after commodity versus low-skilled men. And as we saw earlier, this is reflected in the numbers of men affected by this current recessions’ lay-offs. All things considered, it is hard to believe that post-recession in 2010, women will find themselves elbowed out of the office and expected to go back home. It seems much more likely that women’s emerging economic power will be a force to be reckoned with. Though women are much more prominent nowadays in the workplace as well as in politics and education, we cannot afford to rest on our laurels. If our 50% share in the workforce is indeed a game-changer, how do we capitalize on it? What new mindset if any do we need to adopt? What are we to take away besides the recession casualties that have and still will affect some of us like laid-off husbands, unstable 401K’s, mortgage refinancing and being peeled away from raising our children back to the jobs we left behind? We need to be all we can be. We need to make sure we’re either highly employable or to keep existing jobs, indispensable. Nothing new there—we already have in our working-girl arsenal speaking up and asking for what we want, leveraging our network and marketing ourselves, staying on top of trends and integrating ongoing education into what we do. We are hardworking, intuitive, curious by nature, we’re the more

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talkative of the species but we also know how to listen, we’ve learned to be bold and if need be, dare I say it, we’ve got balls. These are qualities that serve us well and might mean more today than they once did in the marketplace. With corporate success vested more and more highly in consumer experience, today’s competitive advantage means empathizing with your consumer, penetrating the culture by being able to think just like it and co-creating with your clientele instead of dictating to them. Business parlance contains words like holistic, soulful, right-brain, whole-experience approach and so on. As a woman, that’s a language we can get along very well with and if we are indeed moving from a knowledge economy into a so-called experience economy, the female competitive edge just might wield a helluva lot of increasing power. s

brand: YOU. by Lauren Zirilli and Jeanine Heller of ICD Consulting

ave you ever considered why you prefer some brands over others? Are you loyal to a product because it is the best product on the market or are you influenced by the packaging, the personality of the brand, and/or the effectiveness of the brand’s message? Well these questions apply to individuals as well. Many people think “personal branding” is just for celebrities such as Kim Kardashian or Lady Gaga, yet each and every one of us is a brand. Personal branding, by definition, is the process by which we market ourselves to others. If we think of ourselves as brands, we can articulate our strengths and put our brand to work for us in the same way that corporations and celebrities use their brands to appeal to their target audiences. When we effectively communicate our message, we create build brand equity just like them. Personal branding is not a new concept. It was first coined by Tom Peters over 10 years ago. However it

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has become increasingly more relevant to individuals with the popularity of social media. Never has there been a time when creating a personal brand was easier. Conversely, it is more important than ever to manage your brand and be cognizant of protecting your brand identity. With all of the social media tools available to us today, you may not realize it but with each tweet and post you make, you are creating a personal brand of your own. And because there is no way to remove your posts and tweets from cyberspace, you have to be the guardian of your brand. So how does one create a personal brand that communicates the right message and supports her overall goals? The process by which someone does the soul searching to define their brand is referred to as “brand discovery.” Brand discovery is about defining three things: authenticity, intention and an action formula. Authenticity is about articulating the essence of you, your passion, convictions and talents and abilities. Intention is about setting an end goal and action is the path to attaining your end goal.

Once you complete the soul searching necessary to define these three things, you are ready to create your personal branding tool kit—the key pieces that you will use to promote yourself to your target audience. Chances are you’re not a graphic designer, social media guru, or video producer and while you might have thoughts on how you want to portray yourself many small businesses and individuals hire branding firms to help them create the various items that comprise their tool kit.

Your tool kit 1. A Personal Webpage 2. Social Media Presence and Website Implementation • Customized Twitter Page • Twitter Brand Marketing Strategy • Facebook Page • LinkedIn Profile • Digital Resume • Videos • Published Works Here are some resources and tips to keep in mind when creating your personal brand, establishing an online presence and successfully marketing yourself to your target audience. We cannot stress the importance of

“Brand discovery is about defining three things: authenticity, intention and an action formula.” learning how to leverage social media to promote your brand enough – in today’s world it is the easiest, fastest and most effective way to get yourself in front of key decision makers.

TWITTER Resources: Twitter Power 2.0: How to Dominate Your Market One Tweet at a Time by Joel Comm and Anthony Robbins. Twitter: @JoelComm The Twitter Book by Tim O’Reilly and Sarah Milstein Your Twitter Profile: Create a personal branded and engaging custom twitter page. Some tips to keep in mind. Include a photo, your contact information (phone, email, etc), link to website, clean and simple design with pleasing and limited color combination. Listen: search.twitter.com. Spend a little time searching what people are saying about your company, brand, sectors, competitors, products or market. Figure out how people are talking about you—are they happy? Unhappy? Can you help them solve problems? Provide insight. Use it similar to a CRM database. Listen and respond. Follow People: Follow people relevant to your field, follow the people who follow them, and follow those who follow you. Join the Conversation: Be ready to converse and engage people. Do not use Twitter to overly promote yourself/your business. Nobody likes a person who talks only about himself or herself – the rules of in-person conversation apply to Twit-

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ter. Sure you must promote yourself but limit it to 1 out of every 4 tweets. By responding to users needs and interests you will build tweet loyalty and trust; you will become a go-to person in your field of expertise.

CONNECTORS Resources: If you have read Malcolm Gladwell’s The Tipping Point then you understand the importance of Connectors. If you haven’t read this book we highly suggest you run to your local bookstore and read it asap. Gladwell states, “The first—and most obvious—criterion is that Connectors know lots of people. They are the kinds of people who know everyone. All of us know someone like this. But I don’t think that we spend a lot of time thinking about the importance of these kinds of people.” Connectors usually know people across an array of social, cultural, professional, and economic circles, and make a habit of introducing people who work or live in different circles. Getting in front of key decision makers is never easy, it is always best if you know someone who can make a professional introduction. Connectors possess a special talent of getting to the “IT” people, their brains are wired differently than the average person and can quickly and successfully connect the dots. They are networking mavens.

LinkedIn Oftentimes referred to as the “red headed stepchild of social media,” LinkedIn has been a tool often misunderstood and therefore it’s benefits and key features not fully utilized.

Boost your SEO (Search Engine Optimization): LinkedIn is a search engine and has a ton of authority on search engines, especially Google. What does this mean? SEO Domination for one. There are three areas to add website links to your LinkedIn profile. Instead of displaying “My Blog” & “My Website,” click on Edit and then click on Other. Type in a keyword phrase that describes how people can search to find your business. Promote you Blog: Use LinkedIn applications to promote your personal blog such as the WordPress LinkedIn Application or Blog Link Application by SixApart. Promote your blog and develop your personal brand. Blogs are one of the best ways to cultivate your personal brand. These applications make integration easy and maintenance free. Recommendations: Ask former colleagues who are also on LinkedIn to type a brief recommendation for you and post it to your page. Give them a great recommendation as well. This builds trust, a personal testimonial and solidifies your expertise. s

Lauren Zirilli & Jeanine Heller are Principals of ICD Consulting (Ideate.Communicate.Dominate) a boutique marketing firm in Boston, MA specializing in brand development for start up businesses and individuals. Email:lauren@icdconsulting.com Twitter: @lauren_z1 Email:jeanine@icdconsulting.com Twitter: @jeanineheller

Grey sheen skirt by BB Dakota www.dakotacollective.com, sheer nude shirt, Flashbacks www. flashbackintime.com, vintage 66 by Alex and Ani bracelet www. alexandani.com, rings by Mishka Piaf www.mishka-piaf.com, plum patent oxford shoes by F-Troupe London www.f-troupe.com

southland. Photographs by Aaron Feaver Styling by Betania Kelly / Makeup by Leslie Alejandro Model: Shannon Roxanne

Black bustier by Topshop NYC www.topshop.com, bauble and bow necklaces and rings by Mishka Piaf www.mishka-piaf. com, plume vintage hat, stylist’s own. Location courtesy of Lestat’s Coffee House

Antique blue bauble bracelet, stylist’s own, necklace, bracelet and bow ring by Mishka Piaf www. mishka-piaf.com, pale pink skirt with attached hotshorts by Topshop www.topshop.com, vintage black glitter cardigan from Home: A Mercantile Company www. amomentinyourlife.com, pink and brown leopard bikini top by Malia Mills www.maliamills.com, Grey lace up oxfords by The Generic Man LA www.thegenericman.com. Location courtesy of Folk Arts Rare Records Store, est. 1967.

Vintage fur, Flashbacks www. flashbackintime.com

Green glitter hotpants by Topshop www.topshop.com, Black patent leather booties with bow detail by F-Troupe London www.f-troupe. com, Gold chain necklace by Mishka Piaf www.mishka-piaf. com, white silk band shirt and vintage blue cap, stylist’s own

One piece checkered swimsuit by Malia Mills www.maliamills.com, vintage black jacket from Home: A Mercantile Company www. amomentinyourlife.com, white lace-ups by The Generic Man www.thegenericman.com

Town Country Photographs by Della Bass Styling by Nadia Ronchi Hair by Kayla Michele from Atelier Management Makeup by Deborah Altizio using Makeup For Ever Model: Irina from Ford Models, New York

Paul Smith knit tank top and tweed wool skirt www.paulsmith. co.uk/us, Donna Karan black leather ankle bootie www. donnakaran.com, Zara wool cardigan www.zara.com

Jean Yu black robe with satin lapel detail www.atelierjeanyu.com

Maxmara camel cashmere wool jacket, metallic gold pleated trouser, leather knee high boot (not shown) www.maxmara.com

Both Pages: Zero + Maria Cornejo black cashmere wool coat, black slim fit trousers, and black leather flat boot, high dome wool hat www. zeromariacornejo.com

Alberta Ferretti jacket and skirt www.albertaferretti.com, Jean Yu pink silk chiffon top www. atelierjeanyu.com, Donna Karan black leather shoes www. donnakaran.com (not shown)

Donna Karan black one shoulder pleated dress www.donnakaran.com

Zero + Maria Cornejo black washed silk top www. zeromariacornejo.com

Boudicca pleated green/white pattered top with full sleeves, black slim military stretch trouser www.platform13.com, La Crasia Gloves green leather short gloves www.lacrasia.com

new. wave. Photographs by Luca Nocera and Lara Ferri Styling by Latte Pi첫 / Hair & Make Up by Gabriella Trapasso Model: Lucrezia N. from Collection Models

Both Pages: Stussy faux fur vest www.stussy. com, vintage necklace, Bershka leggings www.bershka.com, and Ash shoes (not shown) www.ashfootwearusa.com

Pharmacy Industry raincoat www. pharmacy-industry.com, H&M shorts www.hm.com, EMU boots www.emuaustralia.com, Rayban sunglasses www.ray-ban.com

Franklin Marshall shirt www. franklinandmarshall.com Bulk dress, Rayban sunglasses www.ray-ban.com and Ash shoes (not shown) www. ashfootwearusa.com

Cheap Monday coat, Ben Sherman hat, Tezenis socks, H&M tank, EMU boots

Rare jeans www.thefind.com, Only leather jacket, D.A.T.E. sneakers www.date-sneakers.it, Golden Lady socks www.goldenlady.com

Minimum sweater, Cheap Monday T-shirt www.cheapmonday.com, hand made scarf, H&M slip www. hm.com, Tezenis socks, Logan shoes, vintage sunglasses

Minimum sweater, Eleven Paris T-shirt www.elevenparis.com, Object scarf, Gallo Socks, UST shoes (not shown)

cityguide

Interior Designer, Lexie Averick shows us how to feel at home in Fort Greene

ort Greene is now firmly established as the “It” neighborhood in Brooklyn. It is the best neighborhood to live in if you aren’t yet pushing a baby carriage and don’t want to live like a starving artist in an industrial wasteland. Quality restaurants, lots of fashionable people with creative jobs in the city, and a glorious park where the whole neighborhood seems to spend the weekend, define this beautiful paradise that I am lucky to call home. Kif My go to date spot in the neighborhood. Perfect for a dim lit drink that could turn into a meal if things go well. Their backyard is unparalleled and is tented with Moroccan glass lanterns which is perfectly sultry and romantic. Kif, 219 Dekalb Avenu, (718) 852-7273 Smooch This coffee shop does a great veggie burger, topped with sauteed onions and a delicious small salad. This is where the famous “bloggers of Clinton Hill” come to write and relax. All of the furniture is funky and vintage. I love to sit in the peacock chair outside when it’s warm. Smooch, 264 Carlton Ave, (718) 624-4075

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Jacob’s Eye Jacob’s purses are meticulously made, use the highest quality leather, and are some of the most creative

East Coast

supernova Supernova Lexx Perry is a celebrity stylist and also runs this shop with his partner, Parris. Lexx designs custom jewelry and carries quirky and fabulous clothes and accessories for those looking for a rare combo of tough yet elegant. This is my go to spot for when I need a full ensemble for a special occasion. Image: swager360.com

designs I’ve seen. If he doesn’t get picked up by a high end retailer in the next few years, I would be shocked. He used to only sell at The Brooklyn Flea and now he has his own freestanding semi-outdoor shop that is on the main drag of Fulton. Jacob’s Eye, 114 Dekalb Avenue, (718) 744-0034

Supernova, 741 Fulton Street, (718) 243-1205

Fort Greene Park The heart of Fort Greene. The park is our backyard. Where we walk our dogs, read our books, rest with lovers, play tennis, eat dinner, play soccer, build snowmen, run in the morning. Our own little Central Park and it’s what makes Fort Greene feel like home. Fort Greene Park, 85 South Oxford (718) 965-8900

Gabriella de la Vega This new shop hits the perfect Fort Greene soft spot. It is funky, yet gentle and has very high-end merchandise—for which there is a growing audience for in the neightborhood. The perfect spot for a splurge. Gabriella de la Vega, 88 South Portland Avenue, 718.858.1152

Lexie Averick, a Marblehead, Massachusetts native, is an interior designer who currently designs stores for Tom Ford with the interiors firm, Studio Sofield. She resides in the neighborhood of Fort Greene in Brooklyn, New York.

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Image: dekalbavenue.wordpress.com

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cityguide

Jetsetter, Joyce Ann Jackovitz shares her favorite haunts in the City of Angels

e’ve all heard opinions about Los Angeles. From the land of beautiful people to the land of fruits and nuts, all can be arguably true. A stroll down Robertson Boulevard where the clientele are there to “see and been seen” while dropping $120 on a t-shirt, to a stroll down Venice Beach where you are lucky to see anyone wearing a t-shirt. The fact is Los Angeles is one of the most unique US cities in that it has a variety of experiences to offer to even the most seasoned traveler. Where else can you indulge in the glamour of Beverly Hills and illustrious allure of Hollywood, while also slipping into the relaxed tropical nature of a true beach community all in one day?

I’ve been lucky enough to spend my last decade in this incredible city and found some really great spots that you won’t read about in most Los Angeles’s guides. Below I have gathered a sampling of some of my personal favorites that are sure to show you a good time and in most cases, still leave you with a little money in your pocket. Happy LA’ing! Heist An amazing little store tucked at the end of famous Abbot Kinney in the heart of Venice, this great treasure is sure to have you looking Westside casual chic in no time. With a wide range of American contemporary fashion, Heist also specializes in a selection of hard to find French and Italian designers. Heist, 1104 Abbot Kinney Blvd., (310-450-6531)

The Dime Has your third wish on a Friday or Saturday night ever been to find that amazing Hollywood hide-a-way bar that wasn’t a pretentious club, was easy to get into but you’re sure to see a celeb or two, drinks were under $10 and the DJ was pumping old favorites that have you yelling “OMG I love this song!” Well, not only have we found it but we also frequent it. Yes kids, The Dime is one of the best-kept secrets we know. It’s dark ambience and attractive clientele will have you coming back for more. The Dime, 442 North Fairfax Avenue, between Melrose Avenue and Beverly Boulevard (323-651-4421) High Rooftop Lounge at the Hotel Erwin Okay, so one thing that is missing in Los Angeles are bars and restaurants on the beach. All the sand real estate in Southern California and we can’t enjoy a natural foot scrub while sipping a buttery, oaky chardonnay? Well the owners of High have figured out something even better. Located on the rooftop of the trendy Hotel Eriwin in Venice, this undercover lover of a bar/restaurant will have you feeling like a local in no time. Hotel Erwin, 1697 Pacific Avenue, (310) 452-1111

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Primativo Sangria anyone? While sangria isn’t a rare species, finding it on a menu is. Well, we found it and we found it in pitchers! This adorably warm and cozy tapas restaurant is always filled with a fun, hot crowd no matter what night of the week. The paella is a must, and you can’t leave without an

West Coast

Hotel Erwin order of the bacon wrapped dates. Pull up a chair at the bar, make a reservation for the back patio (only the locals know it’s there) or call ahead for a table inside. Primativo, 1025 Abbot Kinney Blvd., (310) 396-5353 The Basement Tavern at the Victorian This speakeasy located in the basement of a 19th century Victorian home can, and should, be considered a diamond in the not so rough of Santa Monica’s Main Street area. With a plethora of perfectly lit chandeliers and comfy vintage seating strewed about the bar, a private room to play Wii or throw a party, a large staff with extremely friendly bartenders who know how to mix a drink, live bands that don’t overpower the ambiance and a crowd that isn’t tough to look at, this is a must when Westside. The Basement Tavern, 2640 Main Street, (310) 392-4956 Umami Burger So where to start on this delicious little gem. I can honestly say it’s hands down the best burger in town.

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Unami’s perfect atmosphere is like a trendy but not too pretentious diner. Once you take that first bite you will realize this place is all about the food. You can’t go wrong with any of the selections on the menu but the umami and the truffle burgers are a must. Top it off with the cheesy tots and the tempura onion rings (yeah, I said it) and you’ll be enjoying a little piece of heaven. 850 South La Brea Avenue, (323) 931-3000

Joyce Ann Jackovitz is a native of Pittsburgh, PA and for the past nine years has been residing in the Venice, CA area. Her career at Playboy Enterprises which includes travel around the US, has afforded her the resources for her exciting lifestyle while helping keep her fingertips on the pulse of fun in major cities, including her current home of “Los Scandalous.” In her free time, she has taken to writing about her journeys and favorite spots which we are fortunate enough to share with her here.

Umami

reads

365 Thank You’s by John Kralik Hyperion, December 2010 Smack dab in the middle of a painful divorce, a job that is losing its luster and a general dissatisfaction with life, 53-year old John Kralik was heading for a breakdown. But on New Year’s Day he had an epiphany, why not spend more time and energy being grateful for what was going well in his life rather than focus on the negative? And so began a transformative year of giving thanks. Kralik wrote one thank you note a day, to his friends, his family, business associates and even store clerks. Determined to find one person to thank every single day, Kralik began to see his life evolve into something beautiful through the simple power of gratitude. His journey will lift your spirits and inspire you to explore gratitude in your own life. You may even want to start by sending Kralik a thank you note for sharing such a powerful personal story.

The Proper Care and Maintenance of Friendship by Lisa Verge Higgins Grand Central Publishing, January 2011 Why is it that we don’t really start living until we fear dying? When a group of four friends tragically lose one of their own, they are left reeling from the loss. That is, until they realize their dearly departed friend has other plans in mind. When Rachel Braun dies of cancer at 38 she leaves behind letters for her best friends, Kate, Sarah and Jo. Each letter details a specific task for the women, tasks that range from sky-diving to recon-

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Book reviewer, publicist and journalist, Jocelyn Kelley, recommends what’s new in print.

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necting with lost loves. Forced out of their comfort zones and thrown feet first into the unpredictability of life, each woman learns a lesson from the most unlikely of places. Throughout this uplifting and inspiring novel of female friendship one message beats loud and clear, take risks! The Proper Care and Maintenance of Friendship explores the emotional journey of friendship, love, life and death.

The Weird Sisters by Eleanor Brown Amy Einhorn Books, February 2011 The Weird Sisters (also known as the Three Witches) are characters in William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Each “witch” represents a different catalyst of darkness, chaos and conflict. In Eleanor Brown’s stunning debut novel, the Andreas sisters face lives that are spinning out of control. Rosalind (Rose), Bianca (Bean) and Cordelia (Cordy) have decided to return home to help care for their ailing mother and try to regain balance in their own tumultuous lives. Hoping to escape the harsh reality of failure and fear, rejection and despair, the sisters in turn find themselves trying to understand the most difficult and complex relationship of all, the bond of sisterhood. The girls must evaluate what really matters and look closely at the ties that bind. The luscious prose of this debut novel combined with a compelling plot and emotionally authentic characters results in one of the best books I have read all year and one I found myself savoring until the final page when I was sad to say goodbye to The Weird Sisters.

rants

Amber West tells it like it is.

Sitting in front of my computer to type this, I fully intended to complain about the madness that ensues during this time of the year referred to as the “holiday season”. I had grand plans to tell you about the crazy people who completely lose their mind. Like the woman who cut me off at the Dunkin’ Donuts while making a hand gesture I can only assume was sign language for “Happy Birthday, Jesus” last December. Or another lady, who looked as though she might give up her firstborn for my parking spot at a local Target.

I will be able to pay my mortgage, making the idea of no longer having a home a very real one. Broke and almost homeless does not spell contentment and success. And yet, here I sit, feeling pleased enough with life that I don’t have the heart to rant. I have an amazing kid that I have had the good fortune to spend every day with for the last year. My husband and I, despite having days where we probably would have welcomed escaping to an office away from home, are clos-

“As the madness of the holidays buzzes around me this year, I’m determined to just shut it all off.” I was going to complain, despite the fact that I don’t celebrate Christmas personally, how exhausting I find the marathon of marketing, telling us all that we have to spend to show each other how much we care; preferably on high priced toys and jewelry. I had a LONG list of complaints that could have made up a book full of ranting. But, somehow, the fire isn’t there, because as I write this, I am feeling content. From the outside, this may seem strange. After all, December marks the one year anniversary of losing my last paying job. With that went my family’s health insurance (nothing like being a first time mom without that…) As my husband has been out of a job for over a year now, December is also likely the last month

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er than ever. I have amazing parents and siblings who have been supportive, loving and often, my closest friends, through a year that would bring most people to their knees. I’ve spent the last year learning to live simpler, being happy with less. It’s amazing how much you appreciate the simple luxury of going out to dinner when you are counting each dollar. Every bite is that much more delicious. It’s also amazing how after some time, you don’t miss buying that perfect dress, the latest iPhone, or the 60 inch flat screen TV you once vowed would be yours. I have my days when the reality of having less and less as each day passes does weigh on me. But the moment passes, and the feeling of calm contentedness returns.

As the madness of the holidays buzzes around me this year, I’m determined to just shut it all off. (Literally in some ways, as I’ll be shutting off my cable, so at least the commercials will be gone…) I’m determined to keep this newfound sense of calm through the end of the year. I hope that 2011 brings the promise of income with it, but even more, I hope that it doesn’t leave behind a newfound appreciation for the important things in life, and the contentment that comes with it. s

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dialogs

Katie Mendelson interviews blogger, fashionista and sexual being “Chloe Is My Alias.”

ellingly, what tends to shock readers on the anonymously penned blog So I Met This Guy... is not the graphic descriptions about the naughty sexcapades in which “Chloe,” nom de plume of its author, partakes, but the cavalier attitude and sense of empowerment that she takes towards both her spicy sex life and obviously successful professional endeavors. Chloe’s chronicle speaks to a burgeoning era in feminism, one where women “work like men and fuck like men”—

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but still firmly embrace their womanhood and uniquely female sexuality. While this idea may continue to produce unease in some, Chloe has firmly taken the reins in both the workplace and the bedroom (and when she, ahem, hands them over to a man, it’s a calculated decision) and provides a model, sexually and otherwise, from whom all women could stand a few pointers. Q. The blog is obviously about sex, but in a certain sense, it’s about a lifestyle—the idea of living in New York as a young, single, attractive, financially independent woman. In the late 90s, early 00s, that lifestyle was typified by the Sex and the City women who were ostensibly

the model of new sex, but for the most part, really just looking to be loved. Do you think sexuality has changed since that paradigm was presented? A. It is easy to look back and say Sex and the City fell short, that it could have been more than women trying to find love. The show was an accurate reflection of the time; women in their mid-late 30’s and early 40’s were caught in the middle. They were independent, yet clung to a deep-rooted need for the stereotypical ideal of happily ever after that they were told to strive for. Sex and the City gave a face and a name to women who were beautiful, smart, savvy, and successful yet single.

“It’s not that sexuality ever changes, but rather it’s a change in comfort levels...” It allowed young women to have a new kind of TV role model. The show, an eye-opener for so many women trapped in suburbia, for the first time allowed women to see how the other side lived and (gasp!) they kind of liked it. It’s not that sexuality ever changes, but it’s a change in comfort levels that allow women to be more open and honest about their sexual needs and desires. Over time women will admit to enjoying sexual intimacies more, but they are the same things that they have enjoyed doing forever.

media picks up on one side of what women feel is sexy more so than on the multitude of ideas that women find sexy. As much as it turns me on to be in thigh-high stockings and a garter belt, I also can feel very sexy in my cotton floor length jersey robe and bare feet. People always blame the media for pushing ideas onto society, when in fact the media only reflects what society is demand-

open and honest person with those close to me gave me a very strong sense of self. Writing the blog has not changed that. If anything, So I Met This Guy... gives me new perspectives and ideas, which allow me to look deeper. Since starting So I Met This Guy... I’ve had to overcome the fear of exposing myself to strangers, who may one day find out who I am. The blog allows people to

ing. Celebrities are on the covers of magazines because that is what sells the magazines.

see the raw exposed side of me that for a long time I worked hard to cover up and protect. The challenge for me is to stay true to myself, knowing that it could all come out at any moment.

Q. It would be easy for new readers to misinterpret what you’re doing—especially since the media is so oversaturated with sex these days—but once you delve beyond the surface, it seems obvious that your sexual self-possession is very different. Would you agree that there is a huge difference between the mainstream media’s male-projected idea of what is sexy versus a woman’s own projection of her sex appeal? A. That is one of my biggest challenges with developing the blog. When only reading one or two posts, it can be hard to see the larger point. Women still feel that there is an underlying set of rules or social norms that we are meant to uphold. We’ll spend all morning masturbating and when asked about our day we’ll lie, saying “cleaning” or “not much.” Men don’t feel social pressure or embarrassment when it comes to sex like women do. What makes a woman feel sexy defines what the media depicts as sexy. Men always tell me that they could give two shits about lingerie; I tell them it’s not for them, it’s for me. I would say that the

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Q. How do you think sex has formed your sense of self? Has that sense of self changed since you’ve started sharing your exploits with the world? A. My sense of self was defined by life, not sexual experiences. Each decision we make in life defines who we are as people and what our life experiences will be. Being a very

Q. Would you consider yourself a feminist? Some might say you’d be considered an anti-feminist. Your blog has moments where you explicitly express how sex empowers you. Is that lasting? Or is it just on to the next? When have you felt the most empowered by sex?

“Sex is empowering when people underestimate you for being sexy...by the time they figure out you’re a genius, you are way past them.” A. I never considered casual sex as empowering, but I guess in a way it is. It speaks great volumes about how far women have come, when they can work like men and fuck like men. Labels are what divide us, and I try to avoid branding myself with them, although if forced I would say I’m more Nouveau-Feminism than anything else that has been defined so far. Obviously I don’t hate men; in fact, I adore them. For me it’s not about taking over or being heard, but rather being myself. Sex is empowering when people underestimate you for being sexy. Often times they associate your sexual appeal with being stupid and lack of brains. When they don’t see you as a threat they are more open to letting you in, and by the time they figure out that you’re a genius, you’re already way past them. Never underestimate the power of beauty and brains—it’s a lethal combination. Q. How does your career fit into this? How do you think sex fits into the workplace? Do you feel like women being objects of desire forever leaves us at a disadvantage in the workplace? Or does it put us at an advantage? Or both? A. I don’t think sex should have anything to do with the workplace. I don’t sleep with people who I do business with. It’s not that I would have any issue dealing with it, but I don’t want people to think my success in the workplace was due to anything other than my skill and talent outside the bedroom. To be fair, you have to work every angle you have. If someone is willing to give you a job and you suspect they would be less interested if you were

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less attractive, you should absolutely make the most of the situation. Men are just asking to be used and abused if they are willing to offer you a job based on your looks. Take the job, let them give you want you want, just as long as you don’t give into what they want. Q. It seems there is a substantial divide between what men and women crave sexually vs. what they want in a committed relationship. Societal conditioning and animal instinct are at odds within many people—and perhaps even responsible for so many divorces. Do you think the two could/should co-exist more closely in marriage? Do you feel your exploits could help you reconcile these opposing forces in your own committed relationship someday? A. That is something I deal with everyday. For now I have come to the conclusion that what I don’t know doesn’t hurt me. In the beginning of any new relationship the sex should be exciting enough that neither of you really want to go outside the relationship to be satisfied. That said, I don’t think that having an extramarital affair is a make or break deal. I think we need to look at our own individual relationships and figure out what makes sense within that space for the people involved. The old model is stale, I don’t know if there is any one model that we can expect to work for everyone. Q. What would you like this blog to do for you, career-wise? Or sexwise, or life-wise? Do you think you’ll ever reveal your identity?

A. The last thing we need is another faux-lebrity. As I keep my identity anonymous, I clearly have no desire for that kind of public attention. So I Met This Guy... allows readers to get inside my head, learn who I am through the way I live. These stories began way before the idea for So I Met This Guy...; it’s never been about creating content, it’s about capturing it. The blog creates a place for people to feel comfortable, share their experiences and feel a sense of camaraderie. If I can inspire one person to live each and every day on their own terms, then I will feel successful. Q. Is there a lasting message you hope to offer your readers? Just because you don’t understand something doesn’t make it bad, it just makes it something we don’t understand. Life is about individuals and not pushing your values on others. The key is figuring out what works for you. S —Katie Mendelson is a freelance writer living in New York City. She is a regular contributor to Cool Hunting and Interview Magazine. See more of her work at www.katiemendelson.tumblr.com Images courtesy of So I Met This Guy...

sweats

Mariel MacNaughton reports on what’s hot in fitness. “Keep the body guessing, and you will continue to see results.” —Lori Cohen, Personal Trainer

Feature: Diversify Your Workout It happened when I was trying to explain to a friend the rigors of my current work out. I was training for a half-marathon, running several times a week, and was deep into yoga and lifting classes. I was trying to impress upon said friend how difficult my routine was. She responded with an enthusiastic, “well, I’m sure it’s all working well together.” Despite my surprise at her nonchalance towards my gym ethic, I realized she did have a point.

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Diversifying my workouts was actually helping my performance. Running one day was complemented by yoga the next, and further strengthened by lifting later in the week. By adding diversity to my workout, I not only curbed boredom but felt stronger in each area of exercise. Many of us get into a groove at the gym. We find what we love and we stick to it. We begin considering ourselves as bikers, lifters, or swimmers

and work to perfect that routine, but don’t expand upon it. If you’re persisting in one area, your body will develop and respond, but after a while the mental and physical challenge (and thrill) will be gone. I think we can all benefit by grouping exercise into three categories, cardio, strength training, and flexibility, and utilizing each with equal measure. Lori Cohen, a Boston-based personal trainer for nearly ten years,

agrees. She encourages her clients to switch up their routine every few weeks explaining, “a long-term fitness program should continuously incorporate new exercises and changing cardio options. Keep the body guessing, and you will continue to see results.” Cardio and aerobic exercise can include anything from step classes or kick-boxing, to biking or running. These types of workouts use large muscles for a sustained period, and challenge your heart and lungs to keep them healthy. Even if you are training for a particular event, mixing these various cardio exercises together will actually better prepare you. When you run, you’re engaging different muscles than when you take step class. A balanced routine that leaves no muscle behind will keep you from wondering, why isn’t THAT tightening up? Additionally, with each exercise, you’re letting one group rest, avoiding another possible result of a stagnant routine: injuries. The second exercise group, strength training, consists of using resistance to develop strength in your mus-

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cles. These activities can be with free weights, body bars, or even swimming. While cardio is focusing on larger muscle groups, strength training is a time you can focus in on those pesky smaller muscles (under the arm flab, love handles, and back of the thigh – we’re coming for you!) Strength training will also help you see increased abilities in your cardio activities. As your legs get stronger, you can run farther; when your core strength develops, you’ll be more comfortable kick-boxing. The final group, flexibility and balance exercises, will pay off big time both at the gym and in your everyday life. Everything from simple and consistent stretching before and after your regular workout, to devoting time to yoga or Pilates, falls into this category. Setting aside time in any fitness routine for flexibility and balance exercises will boost your performance levels in other areas of your regimen - as well as keep injuries at bay and help you maintain your center in daily activities (like wiggling into those size 26 jeans). And so, self-professed runners, yogis, and kick-boxers, I urge you to forego your regular workout and

give something new a try. Your brain doesn’t want to do five spinning classes any more than your body does. Switch it up and we promise the results will speak for themselves. s —Mariel MacNaughton is a self-proclaimed non-athelete who just happens to enjoy running, yoga, and all things that provide endorphins. She is a New Englander at heart with a love of travel and a passion for fashion (and finding a bargain). In her real life, Mariel works for Boston Ballet, surrounded by the best bodes in the world and provided with daily incentive to get to the gym. She is also a freelance writer, a proud Big Sister since 2008, and has run the B.A.A. 2009 and 2010 half-marathons. She is working on her first novel (and this is now in print, so she really has to keep writing).

reflections

Emptying Yourself into the World—And Coming Up Full. by Marique H. Newell At this late, final hour of the year, most of us are living our lives on fumes. At work, deadlines loom for budgets and plans for 2011. Our social calendars boast a hearty—and, perhaps, overwhelming—array of holiday parties and events. And our to-do lists fill not one but probably two pages, with everything from wrapping Christmas presents to buying salt for the driveway or a new ice-scraper for the car. The nights run long, the weekends fall short, and we are scrambling to keep up with the holidays and the hoopla surrounding the end of the year. For me, reaching December seemed a feat in and of itself. My 2010 included five weddings, a slew of milestone birthdays and anniversaries of dear friends and family, and a seemingly endless parade of bridal showers, baby showers, and bachelorette parties—not to mention a nine-day trip to China, a move into a new apartment, and a niece born into the family. With the start of each new month, I faced a calendar full of new events I had to plan, get to, attend, and then recover from quickly so as to arrive to work on Monday morning fully functioning. (I admit, I failed a bit on the “fully functioning” part a few times.) Honestly? I had moments in which I didn’t think I’d make it. My body, my bank account and my balanced state of being suffered several severe hits. My sisters witnessed more than one sob-filled breakdown. I sputtered into this holiday season feeling as

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though I haven’t stopped moving, traveling, planning, partying, packing, and unpacking since January. It is not always easy to live a full life—to stay consistently engaged, constantly available, always at the ready to respond to friends, family, and colleagues and to attend the various events held in their honor. And, not to mention, to take care of yourself, too. There are only so many hours in the day; there is a finite limit to every tank of energy. And what do you do when you hit empty? Me—I go to yoga. My teachers tell me constantly that my yoga practice is my gas station.

I may dread coming to class, and I may struggle to make my way from start to finish. I may feel guilty for taking time out for myself instead of giving my time to others. I may wish I was anywhere but in that hot room, standing, struggling, sweating atop my mat. But, then—well, I go to class. I work my way through my 90-minute moving meditation. I drain my brain and my body of all thought, worry, expectation, and stress. I open myself; and, I empty myself. And when I leave, my teachers promise me that I will feel restored, newly fueled, the gauge reading, “Full.” You know what? My yoga teachers are right. And, I would wager that you could say the same for life.

“It is not always easy to live a full life—to stay consistently engaged, constantly available...” I mean this: Although these past 11 months ran me ragged, I wouldn’t take back a single event or experience. I wouldn’t for one second wish myself any place other than the hospital waiting room six hours after my niece was born; or the lantern-lit backyard surprise party when we celebrated one of my best and oldest friends turning 30; or my exhausted but elated arrival to China; or witnessing my dearest friend walking down the aisle clutching her father’s arm. I’ve woken up in Chicago, Washington, DC, Shanghai, Oregon, New York City, North Carolina, New Jersey, Nantucket, and all corners of New England, all to celebrate some of the most amazing, incredible, wonderful people I’ve ever met. I am honored that I was asked to be a part of such myriad and monumental occasions. I am whole-heartedly grateful. And every time I came dangerously close to running only on fumes, the love, laughter, warmth, and genuine depth of emotion, appreciation, and joy that I experienced and received at all those parties and during all those important celebrations strengthened and buoyed me again. Sure, like yoga, life challenges and pushes and strains and exhausts us. Life, like yoga, demands you give your all. That is why you need to keep showing up. You need to keep trying and working hard to stay present. You must love yourself and project love to those around you, fully, honestly, without judgment or apology. You must remember it is okay to plan

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but it is equally imperative to remain open to the unexpected. You learn it is essential to grip tight and then let go. You empty yourself into the world. Only to be refilled—by the people and the places and the life, inside and around you. s Marique Newell is a writer, blogger, and yogi based in Boston. An avid fan of live music, literature, local designers and artists, and the hot yoga studio. Read more on her blog: hannahjustbreathe.wordpress.com.

lusts

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