Ok, so if you haven’t heard of ABIR, you need to go check out her music right now.
Her music, especially her single, “Young & Rude,” will make you feel like going on a road trip with your girls in a convertible.
Plus, our girl Kim K was playing ABIR’s song, “Way Out,” on her IG stories recently, and we all know what happens to artists when a Kardashian is filmed jamming to them (aka, they blow up).
Her new EP, “MINT,” is recently released, and is an ode to her Moroccan heritage. The songs are personal, fun, and I have been listening to them on repeat.
We talked to ABIR to discuss “MINT,” her skincare routine, all things fall, and more! Check out the exclusive interview and photoshoot below!
Tell us about your new EP, “MINT”?
“MINT” is a nod to my Moroccan heritage. Growing up I always remembered tea time being the place for getting personal, with the obvious drink of choice being Moroccan mint tea. On this EP, I’m spilling the all the tea about love, life, friends, and more.
Really, just my life as a 24-year-old living and growing up in New York. As a fan, when I’m listening to music, I connect most with lyrics that are relatable on a personal level.
That’s how I approach writing new songs. If I can connect with fans talking my talk and making them feel some type of emotion or creating a vibe, then I’ve achieved my goal.
Favorite song off “MINT” and why?
It’s been changing every other week! Last week it was “Reunion,” but this week I’m really feeling “For Ya.” It’s such a fun record and feels so good every time I hear it. I also had the most fun finding the harmonies and backgrounds for that song and love how they all came together.
Lyric that speaks to you the most off the EP?
“Throwing up in Ubers, barely even left yet, fucking up my rating, why you gotta do that?”
Who are your musical inspirations?
I love me some Etta James, Celine, Beyoncé, Amy, Sarah Vaughan – the list goes on!
Hopefully they get to know a little more about me and can get into all this shade! I hope anyone listening can connect the experiences I sing about to their own lives and feel badass and empowered by it!
Favorite skincare products rn?
Right now, I’m really digging Laneige’s Perfect Pore Cleansing Oil (sooo good) + Innisfree’s Green Tea Serum!
Top 3 things you never travel without.
Perfume, lip balm, and a Neoguri instant ramen (laughs)!
Favorite thing about fall?
Being able to layer clothes is definitely my favorite thing about fall. I love sweater season!
Singer Madison Rose is back at it again and releasing a new single called “Rainbow Phone,” all about a line that you call when you want to “have a good time” – at least that’s how she puts it.
Aka, we should all get ourselves a rainbow phone.
Madison is set to release the new single at the end of Fall, but in the meantime, we got to sit down with the singer to discuss her old music, how “Rainbow Phone” came about, and her favorite beauty products.
Check out the exclusive interview and photoshoot below!
Tell us about your debut single, “DIAMONDS” that was released earlier this year. What was the song about?
The song is about recognizing your self worth and strength in your independence. It’s a statement that no one can dim your shine. You are fabulous and you don’t have to be shy about that fact.
How did you sit down and write “DIAMONDS?” What was the inspiration behind it?
“DIAMONDS” was written over two years ago. A lot has changed for me since then, but at the time, I was no where near as confident as I am now. But, I could see the potential of the woman I was born to be. I knew I had to grow into her but I could see the outline of what she looked like. I was finding myself in these situations, specifically with men, where I wasn’t being treated with the respect I knew I deserved.
This lead to me realizing that I wasn’t giving myself due respect either. “DIAMONDS” was born more out of an effort to manifest the bad bitch part of myself but creating an anthem for all I knew was inside of me. I wrote it in 15 minutes and the outro was a freestyle. It was a really organic unleashing of the person I am today.
Your newest single, “Rainbow Phone,” is due soon. It has such an interesting title – tell us about the song.
That song started off as kind of a joke. The producers (Win&Woo) showed me this beat and said they’d never made something like it before and asked if I wanted to try and hop on. I listened and was like, “Yo this needs some sing rap type energy on it.”
I made this joke like what if this is my move to be a Soundcloud trap rapper? What would a Soundcloud trap rapper do on this? My tag line is “rainbow girl against a storm cloud world,” so rather than hitting me on like “my trap phone,” I just thought it would be funny if it was “my rainbow phone.”
The rest of the song just kind of flowed from there. 90% of the first verse was a freestyle. I was just having fun and exploring a new side of myself musically! I make pop music but am heavily inspired by rap so I felt like this was the place to really explore the blend.
What is a rainbow phone?
A hotline for a good time.
You write all your own songs. What do you need in order to create a creative working space?
In studio, I need great energy from my collaborators and to feel the freedom to experiment. My home is a creative space for me to retreat to. It’s filled with bright colors, candles, and random knick knacks to continually inspire me.
Who are your greatest influences?
I’m inspired by so many strong women. Grace Jones for her tenacity and freedom of style, Beyoncé for her work ethic, and Janet Jackson for her empowered sex appeal.
How would you describe your sound in 4 words?
Rainbow. Empowered. Feminine. Boss.
Who would you love to collab with, living or dead?
Living: Beyoncé, Diplo, Frank Ocean
Dead: Freddie Mercury, Whitney Houston
Tell me about your music video – what’s the idea behind it? How did it come to life?
I had a gazillion inspo boards of all these inspiring colorful images and I met my incredible director, Daniel Iglesias and he knew exactly how to synthesize it. He was like, “What if we create a piece that just builds and builds on itself?”
I love the video because it shows me in so many different lights that are all authentically myself. I’m me whether I’m bare faced in white or lime green boots or a diamond dress. It captures the essence of my mission in life which is to inspire others to embrace all the shades of who they are.
Honestly I pride myself on being self sufficient and very observant. If I don’t have the answer, I’m going to find it myself. I don’t have a team behind me, not even a manager, so I have to consistently empower myself to go get what I want on my own. I study others careers and the moves their teams make and ultimately check in with my own gut to figure out my next moves.
What’s your daily skincare routine?
My life has been progressively getting more and more insane so I at least try to make sure the make up comes off before bed and I have a gentle moisturizing cleanser. I’m a big coffee scrub person as well.
Favorite beauty products to use?
My MILK Makeup stamps! I always have the little stars and hearts all over my face.
Best skincare brand out there right now?
I’m such a Taurus in that I stick to what I love! Vitamin C and UFO acne serum from Sunday Riley are miracle products.
Clothing brands you love to shop?
Joyrich, Lazy Oaf, Topshop. I also am very much a vintage shopper. Anything bold and unique.
Most of the time it’s giving out advice that I probably gave to myself the previous day. I think we are all more connected than we think and half the time you’re going through something, the person next to you is experiencing something parallel. I try to be encouraging and honest. But if I have to think too long, you’re getting emojis.
How does one survive the entertainment industry for 70+ years?
It’s a question which certainly begs an answer: 86 year-old musician and country music star, Loretta Lynn, has been on a winning streak since we can remember.
In 1972, Loretta became the first woman to be named Entertainer of the Year by the Country Music Association. Fellow musician, Candi Carpenter, adds, “That’s an incredible feat, considering only seven female acts have taken home that award in the show’s 52-year history. She’s the original Queen of Girl Power.”
And that she is.
The self-taught singer, songwriter, and performer, has certainly had an incredible run. Loretta is one of the most awarded musicians of all time and has been inducted into more music Halls of Fame than any other female recording artist.
And, she has no intention of slowing down. Loretta’s last studio album, Full Circle, was a Grammy nominee for Best Country Album, and her latest album Wouldn’t It Be Great, is already creating excitement. The album features some of Lynn’s best work- namely the soulful single “Ain’t No Time To Go.”
Aside from her acclaimed and widely beloved musical career, Lynn has also been fighting for women’s issues for quite some time – she’s been an advocate for female empowerment within the entertainment industry, and was among the first artists to speak out about issues like domestic abuse and contraceptive rights.
While she continues to accomplish so much in her own career, Lynn has inspired a new generation of artists. Read below as some of your favorite contemporary musicians speak on the impact Lynn has had in their lives.
Kacey Musgraves describes Lynn as “intelligent, irreverently ladylike, witty, authentic, beautiful, strong and brave.” Kacey goes on to attribute much of her own passion for music to Lynn’s fruitful career, adding, “these qualities have minted Loretta Lynn as a legendary figure in American music, and beyond. I can say, without a doubt, that I would not be living the musical life as I know it without her example to follow.”
As a light is being shed on some of the issues that women in the entertainment industry have been forced to undergo, it’s important to consider the success of industry veterans like Lynn. “When I think about Loretta’s journey, it’s even more impressive to me that back then there was zero formula. There was no ‘norm’ for an outspoken artist who just happened to also be a poor, young mother of four,” says Kacey.
Not to mention, in a culture that continually glorifies overnight sensation and novelty over longevity, Kacey takes a moment to appreciate Lynn’s career trajectory: “There was no norm for songwriters or guitar players. There was no norm even for women in general. No iTunes, no cell phones, no AutoTune, no social media, no YouTube, no reality television shows promising stardom, and no instant gratification. Back then, there was just pure grit, aligned stars, unique perspective, and good, old-fashioned talent.”
Further, Kacey notes, “When I think about the comments, reactions, and situations I’ve been exposed to as a female artist in modern day country music, I can only begin to imagine the odyssey she has been on.”
Lynn is certainly not one to adhere to expectations or allow anybody to put her in a box.
Fellow musician, Kalie Shorr, emphasizes the impact of Lynn’s legacy by comparing her to some other familiar legends. “I’ve always thought Loretta Lynn was just as much a rockstar as Mick Jagger, Slash, and Steven Tyler. She tore down walls, spoke her mind, and looked real good doing it. I grew up on rock just as much as I did country and I remember hearing her project with Jack White and thinking ‘oh, that’s what happens when you combine them both.’ It really showed me what was possible when it came to blurring the genre lines.”
“My band and I have recently started doing a cover of ‘You Ain’t Woman Enough To Take My Man’ with power chords and a rock and roll beat. It’s so fun and people go crazy. I’m so thankful for the path she’s paved for women in country to rebel with purpose,” Shorr continues.
Another fellow singer, Candi Carpenter, tells the story of when she first met Loretta Lynn, and how this inspired the trajectory of her career.
“I first met Loretta Lynn when I was 16 years old. My childhood mentor, Jack Greene, formed a friendship with Loretta when they both toured the country with Ernest Tubb in the 1960’s. We sat with Ms. Loretta in her living room while she listened to my first CD. She asked me if I could teach her how to yodel, and then showed me her doll collection.”
AMAZING.
“I’ll never forget the way she encouraged me, and asked everyone to leave the room so that she could talk to me one on one. She looked deep into my eyes, searching, and told me that she believed I was meant to be a performer and a songwriter, but that it was going to be a long and painful road. I felt like I’d been to see a psychic. Ms. Loretta told me that if I wanted to be successful as a storyteller, I had to be fearless. She said, ‘They can’t hate ya for sayin’ it if it’s the truth!’ She didn’t abide by the societal norms laid out for her. She created her own.”
“Ms. Loretta invited Jack and I to perform with her at her ranch, and when I walked out to sing ‘Stand By Your Man,’ she stood behind me and hyped the audience. Loretta Lynn was my hype woman for the evening! The way she champions other female artists is an example I hope to follow. The friendship she forged with Patsy Cline serves as an example of how two women in the same field can not only love and respect one another, but also offer each other genuine support and understanding.”
Aka, Loretta has had a huge impact on other young female performers that is definitely something to commend and look up to, no matter what profession you’re in.
American singer, Cam, adds, “To me, above all the career milestones and success, I have always felt Loretta was real, multidimensional, and proudly imperfect (and I mean that in the best sense of the word), and to see a real woman brave enough to speak truth like that, is a reason women and men are freer today than before there was a Loretta Lynn.”
We couldn’t have said it better.
Loretta’s newest album, “Wouldn’t It Be Great,” is officially out now, and we couldn’t be more excited. Her influence and inspiration lives on, and we hope you all give her a listen and learn a little bit of magic from her, too.
One of your fave models, Joy Corrigan, is at it again and modeling for the launch of the swimwear brand, Revival Swim.
The collection boasts clean cuts, fun studs, and neutral colors. Revival Swim is wearable, comfortable, and is going to be your new go-to swimwear brand.
We got to sit down with one of the campaign’s models, Joy, to discuss her skincare faves, what swimsuit colors she sticks to, traveling tips, and more. Check out the interview below, and the exclusive Revival Swim imagery from their debut collection!
How was it working for the Revival brand campaign? Favorite pieces from collection?
Shooting the Revival Swim campaign on location in breathtaking Miami didn’t even feel like work! It was non-stop fun since I got to work with such a great crew – including my talented friend and photographer, Holly Parker!
I’m obsessed with all the Revival Swim pieces, I can’t believe this is their first ever campaign. They have a unique, classic, high-waisted, bold fit that totally hugs the bod in all the right places. It definitely will be hard for anyone to choose only one favorite!
How do you keep your skin and hair flawless while jet setting across the globe?
I drink lots of H2O, at least a gallon a day. I like to add in organic electrolytes in my water to stay hydrated. The Ultima Replenisher in Grape is my favorite flavor.
When I’m traveling or just prepping my body and mind for sleep, I wear TrueDark’s Sleephacking Glasses to get rid of jet lag!
To nourish my hair, skin, and nails, I take Dr Oz Garcia’s Collagen Enhancer supplement. It works by supporting and activating enzymes that help generate your collagen.
I just got the TrueLight Energy Square LED therapy light! There are so many benefits identified with red light therapy, so I had to get one! It is a near Infrared light by TrueDark that works by rejuvenating, healing, and tightening skin cells!
What is your swimsuit color?
White, nude, or red.
What makeup product do you think is the most underrated and why?
For me, using freshly cleaned quality makeup brushes is so important! I try and clean my brushes whenever i can. The “Stick & Dry Brush” drying rack by Real Techniques is absolute genius!
What product in your makeup bag do you never leave home without?
HOURGLASS Veil Translucent Setting Powder! I’m always trying to be prepared in case my faces’ dewy look becomes the super sweaty look!
You are a model, actress, philanthropist, and influencer – how do you juggle it all and stay in shape?
It definitely is a challenge to stay in shape while juggling such a hectic career! I try to work out at least once a day, and eat a super clean, ketogenic (high fat, low carb), plant-based diet. I’ve also found that focusing on adding as many nutritious fiber-rich fruits and vegetables helps to keep my energy levels high and my cravings away!
Cryotherapy and ice baths are another way that I like to burn extra calories, lower inflammation from my shoots and work outs, or just to give me that extra kick of energy throughout the day!
Guilty pleasure food?
Truffle fries, my Mom’s 4 cheese spinach lasagna or NY Cheesecake.
Right now, I’m going over my lines for a big audition, so hopefully you will see me in more movies throughout 2019! I also plan to host my first Jadesvine charity dinner.
I want to raise money and bring awareness to way more people next year, so that we can help put an end to the extinction of many endangered plants and animals! Also, I plan to officially launch my eco-friendly athleisure clothing line named “naked species” in late spring/early summer! So stay tuned.
Singer Marcela Barry‘s sound is what we need to guide us through this tumultuous year of uncertainty.
She fills the ears of her listeners with music that makes sense, and with music that allows one to have their own experience with her raw vulnerability.
Her voice isn’t the one thing that defines her; she is a woman of immense potential and talent. She creates from the center of her vision, and Barry has a hand in every little detail of her artistic endeavors.
From the personal touches of using spaces from her childhood and her life to sitting in the editing room, she is making sure her labor of love for the past two years sounds just as she dreamed it to be.
Barry describes her music as “alternative R&B,” and when asked who she makes her music for, she says she makes it for people that actually want to listen and understand her story, essentially making her art universal. Which isn’t hard to do – her truth spills out of her velvet infused vocal chords captivating all that listen.
Her newest single, titled “Drag Me Along,” is off of her up and coming EP. It features a plethora of stunning woman graciously moving through time while Barry’s voice creates a landscape of imagination.
Barry is breaking into the world of music with an enviable energy that is loud and clear. She has intensely added her own soul into her work and everything is 100% created by her.
I had the chance to sit and talk with Barry about everything from the process of making truthful art to her subway commute that morning. We are so happy we can share her latest music video for “Drag Me Along.” Check out the exclusive interview and music video below!
If you could describe your passion in three words what would they be?
Vulnerable, bold, and thoughtful.
Now describe yourself in three words.
Genuine, passionate, and intelligent.
You’ve been making art for such a long period of time, how did you begin your descent?
I was always singing and creating. I think what got me started was realizing what I was doing. I’ve been writing songs since I was very young but to me it was singing whatever I felt like singing in that moment.
I started playing piano when I was seven and soon after that is when I thought, “oh I can just take the lyrics and melodies that I’ve been coming up with and accompany myself.” It all happened organically. It wasn’t something I decided to do from one day to the next; it just kept evolving, as I got older. I became increasingly obsessed with it.
Was it easy to break into the creative world of making art as the true artist that you wanted to be seen as?
To be real, I’m still in that process. I’m making the music that I want to be making; I’m putting in work. This is a male dominated industry though and people are intimidated and act funny when a woman delivers work of a certain caliber.
The songs I make and anything I’ve released has been born in my brain. Trusting my ideas and myself is of the utmost importance to me. I think that has been crucial to my journey so far, and I plan on sticking to that as I move forward.
You talked about making work organically that your creations have evolved over the years, are there specific moments in time when you access your most creative self?
Definitely in my solitude when I’m reflecting. I always remind myself to be sure to find time to sit with myself. That’s when I can really flesh out ideas and create work that is fully formed that I’m proud of.
You are constantly creating and making, where do you find this enviable drive?
My drive stems from being totally invested in my music. This is what I’ve always known and what I’ve been working towards since day one. There’s no question about it it just simply is what I do. I feel lucky in that way because it’s beautiful to feel so sure about something.
How does it feel to be a freethinking individual within this climate?
There’s some times this pack mentality that I think can really cause people to become stagnant. There really is very little room to move forward if we’re all just doing whatever the person next to us is doing.
To grow and to change is a natural part of our individual experiences, and I don’t think you get to enjoy that part as much unless you’re moving to your own beat, forging your own path.
Where do you gather your most inspiration?
My inspiration is always from personal experience. I’m inspired by hearing music that moves me. Language is also super inspiring for me. Sometimes I’ll overhear a conversation on the subway and someone will say something and maybe a few of those words sound really nice to me.
I’ll take it out of context and make a new sentence out of it and sort of go from there. Regular human interaction can be really inspiring.
How have your roots defined your views, your voice?
My Mother is from Honduras and growing up I would go to school over there for two months out of the year. I’m really grateful that she made sure I knew where we come from. I spent a ton of time with family and friends while I was there but I also had a ton of time to myself to write. Knowing my culture has definitely inspired the way in which I create.
How was it directing your own work?
I really enjoyed it. The entire process was really euphoric for me. I really had butterflies each day of shooting and during the editing process when I watched it all come together. It was wild to see a vision that I had gone over so many times in my head become something that others were able to see too.
How did you conceive the idea for “Drag Me Along?”
“Drag Me Along” was a song that came very naturally. In hindsight it was a chaotic time for me. I think I was living in extremes a lot, going through a lot of changes. I think a lot of the song speaks for itself. I wasn’t necessarily the happiest I’d ever been.
I’m a very passionate person when it comes to my relationships and my art. I think writing drag me along allowed me to be vulnerable. It allowed me to express feelings that I wasn’t necessarily willing to share with anyone.
What was your creative process/journey leading you to the music video?
The first thing that came visually for drag me along was the color scheme. I knew I wanted a fiery color scheme. You know how there’s different colors throughout a flame? I wanted each frame to be different parts of the flame, that gradient has always resonated with me.
Like I mentioned before this song was very vulnerable for me and the beauty salon in the video is the beauty salon I grew up going to. Everybody at that salon is like family to me and it’s a safe place. It felt appropriate to have such a vulnerable song take place in this safe space.
This song has a lot to do with isolation. I wanted to showcase the sisterhood of that environment while at the same time being honest about how I was feeling when I wrote that song.
Best piece of advice you ever received?
My mother told me I had to make myself strong from the inside out once and that’s always stuck with me.
What’s next for you?
I’m in the process of recording my first EP. It’s called “Fever Dream.” Drag Me Along is the first single off the project. I’m really hype about it; it’s the most important thing to me right now. I’m putting a lot of heart into it and it feels right.
Galore Cover Girl, MJ Rodriguez, is just a New Jersey girl with a big dream – and she’s achieved that dream big time by starring in Ryan Murphy’s (American Horror Story, Glee, and so much more) new hit show, Pose.
Pose officially is the first scripted show with the largest transgender cast, where the actors are series regulars – let’s celebrate that! And Pose being MJ’s big breakout role, it is a huge deal. The show’s first season is
MJ has wanted to act since she was 7 years old, and first got involved in the ballroom scene at age 14. MJ has attended prestigious performing arts schools and programs, and has won multiple awards – all a testament to her talent and her destiny to end up on a hit show like Pose.
And don’t forget the fact that Pose is a major win for the LGBTQ and more specifically, trans, communities, and MJ and her cast mates is now a role model for trans youth watching the show at home. MJ’s own family was very supportive of her transition, but all trans youth are not so lucky. The exposure that the trans community receives from a show like Pose is obviously very important. Those starring in the show almost always mention that it’s an honor.
We sat down with our newest Cover Gal, MJ, to discuss being on the show, her character, Blanca, the ballroom scene, and her must-have beauty items right now. Check out the exclusive interview and shoot below!
Tell us about the casting process for Pose. How did your role as Blanca in the show come about?
Pose came about in many ways, but mostly through word of mouth. I heard about the casting process through so many colleagues and friends. After hearing from my peers, I took it upon myself to check out the breakdowns. When I read them, I resonated with Blanca completely.
I audition on camera, and then hadn’t heard anything for about 2 weeks. I made the assumption that I hadn’t received the part and told myself, “Girl, at least they saw you! You were seen, and that’s enough.” Then, a couple of days later, I received a call from Mr. Murphy, himself. That call, of course, changed my life forever.
What characteristics in your character, Blanca, do you see in yourself?
Blanca and I share her honesty, her companionship, and her ability to be selfless.
What makes a good mother? How did your family react to your transition? What advice would you give young boys and girls on transitioning?
For starters, unfortunately parenting doesn’t come with a handbook. But, I think what makes a great parent, specifically a mother, is the ability to love unconditionally. When I expressed at a very young age that I was different, my mother never challenged it. Instead, she let me express myself exactly how I wanted to.
When I came to her and told her I was trans later down the line, she was very understanding. The advice I would give to youth on transitioning is to constantly dare to be the true you. Once you do that, you begin to influence others to be as authentic as they can be.
What can we expect for Pose next season? Any secrets you can tell us?
To be quite honest, I don’t have all the answers but I THINK we can expect deeper narratives and heavier subject topics when is come to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
What is your current beauty obsession?
My beauty obsession is my hair. I love trying and rocking different hair styles. I feel every unique look accentuates specific aspects of me and I love that. I love changing – I like to think of myself as a chameleon.
One beauty item you take with you everywhere.
I always take a good gloss! It’s very important to have my lips moisturized and glistening.
How has fashion helped shape and change your life?
I was always a girl who was influenced by fashion, so to now have it as one of the leading forces in my life is a dream that I never thought would come true. I finally get to wear designers I’ve dreamed of – one of them being Jeremy Scott. I’ve been following him since was 19, and since then it’s been a complete 360 (in the best way possible).
Explain the ballroom scene to some of our readers who may not know what it’s all about!
The ballroom scene it’s a place where the unwanted become the wanted. It’s a place where you can live out your wildest fantasies and not be judged for it. Most importantly, it’s a place for comfort when it comes to the LGBT community of color.
What designer are you really into at the moment?
The designer that I am completely into right now is obviously Jeremy Scott! His style and designs have power and a message. He’s a powerhouse.
Moschino x H&M was such a diverse range of models. It’s refreshing to see a high-end designer be so inclusive, especially for an affordable collection that many can afford. You yourself slayed in this campaign! How did this collab come about?
Jeremy has this contagiousness about him. I feel like I kind of drew to him like a moth to a light. He mention to me something that would be dynamic and change the narrative a bit and that was Moschino x H&M. It was a perfect fit.
Tell us more about your music. Can we expect an album soon?
When it comes to my music, I’ve been writing like crazy, but no album expectations yet. I’m just trying to get back into the rhythm of writing music again and diving deeper into my artistry so that it can be the type of music that has the impact of a lifetime.
Biggest crush at the moment?
My biggest crush right now has to be Miles Richie. It’s very hard for me to look at him while we are in the same room, I kinda turn red and get embarrassed so I leave to save myself the humiliation.
What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?
The advice I would give my 16-year-old self would be to always be daring, continue to be a rebel, continue to be someone who fights for the rights of all people, and last but not least, to constantly be yourself no matter what others say.
The New Year is fast approaching. What is next for MJ in 2019?
The second season has been confirmed, and it is a complete blessing, so I’m looking forward to that. Also, hopefully there are some opportunities for film work. I would love to be a part of an action film, maybe even be a leading woman in a romantic film. I’m keeping myself open to all options when it comes to acting/singing.
Most of us first met Galore’s newest Cover Girl, Sita Abellán, when Rihanna scouted her for the badass and iconic, “Bitch Better Have My Money,” music video.
If you don’t remember, rewatch the video and you can see Sita as a blunt cut blondie who shoves the trunk in the back of the car (aka the trunk with the kidnapped woman in it, lol).
After that, Sita blew up. Not just because of her performance in the music video, though. When fans went searching for Sita via social media, they found her inventive, creative, bold, and stylish Instagram – a page dedicated to her unique self.
Now, Sita is juggling multiple careers at once – not only is she still acting, she’s also nonstop DJing (in high demand), modeling, styling (because, hello, her style kills), and now, designing.
Sita recently released a collaboration she designed along with Faith Connexion, and you can buy it here. The collection features her signature color, a deep, electric blue, and it’s a mix of her fave things: DIY and high-end.
We got to sit down with the designer and Galore Cover Girl to discuss her newest collab with Faith, her best DJing gigs, and her beauty necessities. Check out below for the exclusive interview and photoshoot!
The colder weather is finally upon us! What are your winter makeup must haves?
My matte lipstick and my blue mascara from MAC Cosmetics.
Tell us more about your Faith Connexion collection? What was the inspo behind all of it!
I got inspired by the theme of 80’s girl groups! My initial style inspiration was the song “Typical Girl,” from one of the first female punk-rock bands called The Slits.
The pieces in the collection are black tulle leggings, a 90s-inspired poplin mini dress, a mesh and tulle robe, high-waisted stretch silk leather trousers, a black silk jumpsuit, a mini cargo vest, motorcycle trousers and a metallic blue calfskin biker jacket adorned with 2,500 studs.
There’s also a top made entirely of “Faith” patches that reflects my enthusiasm for DIY. Most of the designs incorporate my signature shade, electric blue.
Who are your favorite Spanish designers at the moment?
Maria Ke Fisherman, Palomo Spain, and ManeMane.
How do you keep your skin and hair flawless while jet setting across the globe?
I have a very good hairdresser in Milan, and I take very good care of my skin and hair. I also do facials and hair treatments very often.
What products do you use to get that perfect blue hair?
For my hair I use Shu Uemura hair products. I use the red line shampoo and hair mask. Then, I use directions for the hair color.
What did your mother or grandmother teach you about beauty?
They taught me that real beauty is being yourself at any cost.
I don’t like labels too much, I like to be myself and think outside the box. That’s the best message of punk, isn’t it? Be your own beautiful individual self.
What is your favorite lipstick color?
Red.
You are a model, DJ, stylist, influencer, and designer. How do you juggle it all? What is next career step on your bucket list?
I like to express myself 360 degrees. One day, I hope I an become a creative director. I wouldn’t mind acting as well.
What has been the most iconic party you have attended or DJed so far?
I loved DJing at DC10 in Ibiza.
If you could have dinner with any four people (dead or alive), who would it be?
Marilyn Manson, Alexander McQueen, Salvador Dalì, and John Galliano.
Model, actress, activist, Instagram gal, and new Galore Cover Girl, Maya Henry, may not be on your radar yet, but she sure as hell should be.
Already modeling for the likes of Dolce & Gabbana (a dream), this 18-year-old cutie from Texas is straight killing it.
Maya also runs her own charity, named Maya’s Corner, which helps bring food, supplies and education to young children in need in Texas.
We got to sit down with Galore Cover Girl, Maya Henry, about her charity, her modeling and acting aspirations, her heroes (hint: it’s in the family), and her beauty and skincare dos-and-don’ts. Check out the exclusive interview and photoshoot below!
What products do you swear by for your skin?
I don’t really swear by anything because my skin changes so much due to traveling, being a woman, etc. I always exfoliate my skin with Dr. Lancer’s scrub before washing my face with the morning burst face wash by Clean & Clear.
I also use IS Clinical active serum because it really helps clear my skin when it’s breaking out. Lastly, I always use moisturizer with SPF in the morning to protect my skin.
What have make-up artists backstage at the shows and on shoots taught you on beauty?
The artists I work with are all my good friends. I usually work with the same ones all the time. I’ve learned what colors to use on my eye color to make them pop, how to put on individual lashes, and also I like to buy the foundations they use on my skin to match my tones and make sure it looks natural. Less is always more.
What are your winter make-up must haves?
My winter must haves are 111 Skin Space anti-age day cream because it keeps my skin moisturized. Also a good red/berry lip. Black Magic 630 by Dolce and Gabbana is great for winter.
Bodysuit: Stylist’s own, Earrings: White Fox, Rings: Anne Sisteron & Ben Bridge
Bralette: House of CB, Shorts: White Fox, Belt: Diesel, Boots: PF Kaufman, Earrings: Daniel Espinosa, Fur: Vintage
How was it walking for the iconic designer, Dolce and Gabbana? How did this opportunity come about?
It was so surreal. The first show I walked was the Alta Moda show in Mexico City. I actually opened the show which was so unexpected. I met them in New York after I watched the Alta Moda show there. Instantly the designers and I had a connection and it just all went on from there! I love everyone at DG. It’s like a big family.
What brand are you dying to collaborate or work for next?
For now I love working with Dolce. They are so kind and caring. They have amazing clothes and shows! I’m not too set on one brand but I will see what comes my way in the future!
How do you keep your skin and hair flawless while jet setting across the globe?
I try not to blowdry or use hot tools on my hair if I don’t need to. I like to let my hair air dry and I love Bay Breeze hair treatment shots by the Dry Bar. My hair is so soft after I use them.
Also, I love a thick moisturizer while I’m traveling because my skin gets so dry. Washing off makeup also is a key for me. So, always wash off your makeup no matter how tired you are!
Bodysuit: Stylist’s own, Earrings: White Fox, Rings: Anne Sisteron & Ben Bridge
Bralette: House of CB, Shorts: White Fox, Belt: Diesel, Boots: PF Kaufman, Earrings: Daniel Espinosa, Fur: Vintage
Favorite hair product at the moment?
I love the shampoo and conditioner by Sun Bum. Also, their leave in conditioner spray is amazing. The smell of all of their products is my favorite. Smells like the beach!
What’s your biggest beauty indulgence?
I love the Tatcha luminous skin mist! I love to spray it on when my makeup is done because it gives you a nice glow. It’s just so expensive, but it’s worth it.
Are you a lipgloss or lipstick kind of girl?
I love a good lip gloss. I love how it makes your lips look juicy. But, I also like to put on lipstick and layer it with gloss for extra color and stay. One of my favorite lip glosses is the Victoria’s Secret beauty rush in Candy Baby. It is a pretty light color and it smells and tastes like candy!
What is your go-to nail color?
Dolce and Gabbana nail lacquer in Innocence. I wear it when I walk the runway because it’s a great nude color.
What make-up product do you think is the most underrated and why?
Maybelline clear mascara. If you want a no makeup look you can use it on your lashes, and I also use it as a brow gel. It’s a very affordable product!
What product in your makeup bag do you never leave home without?
Concealer. Even if I don’t wear any makeup, I always have concealer in my purse. My favorite one is the Cle de Peau in ivory.
What’s your girl power motto?
Women supporting women! I think this is important because I don’t think it’s good for girls to tear each other down. I think we should support and encourage each other. Being mean or tearing each other down won’t get you further in life, and in the end you will have no friends to help back up you up.
Who’s your fashion icon?
Rosie Huntington Whitley. She dresses classy, but in a cool and sexy way. She definitely has been my favorite since I was a young girl.
Who’s your hero and why?
My mom and grandma are my heroes. They are such strong, powerful women. With my grandma going through breast cancer, everyone was devastated. She kept such a positive attitude throughout all of her treatments and she beat cancer!
My mom is such a hardworking and caring mother. She raised my brother and I by teaching us to care for others and to give back. I think she will still be traveling with me for the rest of my life. We are inseparable! I would say she is my best friend.
Top: K-Slam, Shorts: White Fox, Belt: Diesel, Boots: PF Kaufman, Earrings: Daniel Espinosa
Tell us more about your charity, Maya’s Corner?
I started Maya’s Corner when I was around eight years old. I would always help at my dad’s turkey giveaway, and I felt so bad for all the little kids standing in line for hours just to get a turkey to eat on Thanksgiving. I decided to have a section cut off where all the kids could wait, play with animals, and have some food.
It then turned into me raising money for animal shelters and handing out school supplies to lower income schools in Texas. This is definitely something I want to expand to Mexico and around the US. I want young children to have the opportunity to know how important it is to have an education.
What emoji best describes you?
I would say the emoji. I’m always happy, and of course it has a cowboy hat, because I’m from Texas!
What’s the secret to self-confidence?
I used to struggle with confidence as a young girl being overweight. I was never the “popular girl” in school and I didn’t really have friends. As I got older, I realized just because you have a bunch of friends it doesn’t mean you are happy in life.
I think just staying true to where you come from and who you are is important. Sometimes you find yourself on Instagram looking at other girls and being like, “Oh, her body is perfect and I need to look like that.” No! Everyone is different in their own way. I always tell myself I want to be the best version of Maya Henry, not someone else.
I think as you get older you become more self-confident. It’s important to not listen to negative things others have to say. My grandma would always tell me everyone is beautiful and God made everyone special in their own way. There is no secret – it’s just something you have to build overtime.
Who would be in your girl band and what would you name the band?
My girl band would be my grandma as a backup dancer because she loves to dance. My mom I feel would be a rapper/hype girl. I would also want Hannah Montana, because I grew up watching her and no matter how old I am I will still love her music. I think we would be called The Divas.
Bodysuit: Stylist’s own, Earrings: White Fox, Rings: Anne Sisteron & Ben Bridge
Your family loves a big party. Who would be your ideal party guest (dead or alive) to play or attend your next family bash?
My family does love to throw parties!! I would definitely want George Michael. His music was the best and you can dance to it.
What’s the last song you played on Spotify?
“Me&U” by Cassie.
Since moving to NYC, how is the dating scene compared to LA or Texas?
I don’t date boys that much because I am always traveling. Also I’m still 18, so I feel like I’m in no rush to date anyone really. If I meet someone, then great! It’s just not something I want to rush.
Boy crush at the moment?
I don’t have one at the moment but young Leonardo DiCaprio is always my boy crush!
What’s your favorite come back to haters?
I don’t even have a comeback. I just ignore them. Honestly, hate comments make me laugh and they have never upset me. It’s best not to give haters any time or energy!
Top & bottoms: The Blonds, Earrings & bracelet: Dolce & Gabbana, Boots: PS Kaufman
If you could swap places with anyone for the day, who would it be and why?
Kate Middleton. It would be so cool to be a princess for a day that has an awesome family with cute kids and also gets to do charity work and help people. How perfect would that be?!
What is next for Maya in 2019?
What’s next for me is to continue modeling and start trying to act more. I definitely will continue charity work and would love to be able to work with UNICEF. I also plan to continue with college and pursue my dream of being a human rights attorney.
Stoner, but chic. Clueless meets Romeo + Juliet. Or, to put this politely, Tai Frasier links up with Travis Birkenstock and AJ to launch a super sick clothing line. To sum it all up, Valley High‘s newest “Checked Out” collection is the personified version of the best of the 90s.
If you’re obsessed with the 90s as much as we are (c’mon, Galore is huge on nostalgia), you will be drooling over the clothing brand Valley High’s newest drop.
Featuring an array of cropped checkered prints on baggy tees and hoodies, alongside logo-emblazoned camo print tops, this entire drop is made to mix and match as transitional pieces between summer to fall.
Whether it’s a tight turtleneck top underneath a cropped hoodie or a pair of classic black tights underneath a thigh-grazing oversized camo tee, these statement-making basics are the best foundation for your current #ootd’s.
Although the collection mainly features oversized silhouettes, you can stay cozy, yet feel sexy in any of the looks. You can also wear certain oversize shirts as a dress, or play up your inner #tbt tomboy and go loose.
Trust us, you really do not want to get FOMO over this collection – just go order some pieces! Even Ariana Grande is a fan, too, and we know queen Ari knows how to rock some lewks.
Meet Dounia: a badass singer and activist raised in Queens and Morocco. The artist also happens to be Galore’s newest Cover Girl, and will performing at Galore’s 2018 Girl Cult Festival.
Dounia cheekily calls her artistry “Dounia World.” A safe space. A space that welcomes all the boss baddies out there killing it at everything they do. A space “for the ones they call weirdos.” A space that’s been growing exponentially since day one and a space that has the entire music industry buzzing and looking for a way in.
The singer made her way into our daily bop rotations in 2017 with the genre-bending “Intro To” EP. She rapidly amassed millions of Spotify streams, garnered the attention of TIME Magazine and The FADER, and did an iconic COLORS performance that you have to check out.
I’ve had the pure pleasure of joining Dounia on her first nationwide tour with Christine and The Queens. I caught her off guard amidst a 3AM hair appointment in Brooklyn with a few questions. Check out the exclusive cover shoot and interview below!
Warming up to the stage every night that passes, meeting people that are touched by my music, and being able to physically work toward my goals.
No matter what’s occurring in the world via the Internet, nothing feels as authentic and tangible as actual real life experiences. I also love hanging out with my professional team everyday. Also, of course traveling is a blessing – duh.
What inspires your lyrics?
Real life experiences. Whether they be my own forefront experiences or the ones that rest in the back of my mind. It all comes to the surface in the studio.
What kind of changes do you hope to see in the music industry as a result of your work/presence?
I’d like to see more souls for the amount of humans we have. I’d like to exemplify how honesty and integrity can be successful. Generally, I would just like to inspire people to embrace themselves more truly and realize the idea of a status quo is outdated.
How has your Moroccan background influenced your music?
I don’t think I was exposed to much music during my upbringing. So, I feel like it allowed me to explore denser mediums and also made me more selective with my music taste. I think both of these things contributed to my craft.
What is a Dounia fan?
(Whispers) A bad bitch.
A Dounia fan is someone who is more fearless than they give themselves credit for. A Dounia fan is a tastemaker and someone who appreciates the details.
What are 3 things you keep around you everyday?
A book. A journal/pen. Incense.
One of your favorite quotes?
Honestly some of my favorite quotes are cliches. But, I mean, they’re cliches because we say them so often so they must hold some truth!
“Everything happens for a reason” is my favorite quote, because I truly believe we’re all exactly where we need to be in the present moment. Whether its for the ultimate good of our personal trajectory or for a collective benefit.
Most inspiring woman in your life?
Honestly, all the female bosses I come across while navigating throughout the music industry inspire me on the daily. In my personal life, it’s the women that are brave enough to be honest and transparent in a world that doesn’t necessarily reward vulnerability. The basic and simple answer is probably my mother and Oprah.
Honestly, I think reminding myself that emotions are fickle and I’m here for a greater purpose. Reaffirming the fact that I have a divine path and taking time in myself each day to do so. Being around cool nice people.
Career path if you weren’t pursuing music?
I would definitely be a writer of some sort or a teacher. I wanted to be an English teacher and write books. My absolute dream career was always to be a songwriter, but even that seemed too luxurious and glamorous, so being an artist wasn’t even in the scope of options. I was very realistic.
What kind of experience should we expect to get from your next project?
You should experience a worldwide of emotions and a disparity in vibes so grand that it won’t even feel like you’re listening to just one artists project. You’ll feel like you’re getting a multitude of flavors.
Piece of life advice to anyone reading this right now?
Just calm down. Nothing exists but the present. Be the best friend and romantic partner that you want for yourself.
You’re always serving looks. What’s your fashion inspiration?
From not caring and just being daring with my choices. I don’t really look to anybody for immediate style inspiration. I just do what feels good.
Ideal date?
I don’t like too much pressure and I also don’t like setting shit up. I just like going with the flow. And if we see each other in person that’s a fun time.
How do you feel about your first cover story?
I think it’s so dope that somebody like me who isn’t traditionally considered a covergirl is now at the forefront of these things. Its also cool because I’ve been working with Galore for a while and doing more behind the scenes stuff. So as I’m progressing in my career, it’s amazing to be able to collaborate in bigger ways with platforms that I love.
Dounia’s new EP will be dropping on 11/30 which includes a feature with fellow Galore Cover Girl, Kehlani
If you’re like any other person with a Netflix account, I’m assuming you’ve been binging the network’s newest series, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.
Netflix released all of Season 1 in one day (last Friday), and the show is now being quickly consumed by anyone with a desire to watch the witchy remake of the Sabrina comics. The show is also run by the same creators of Riverdale, meaning you can expect a similar style, and a similar hype (everyone’s already obsessed) around the series!
You may recognize Tati Gabrielle, who plays one of the young witches who threatens Sabrina in the first episode (no spoilers, here, I swear). Her character, Prudence Night, is a true bad b*tch. Even though Prudence is technically portrayed as pretty dark and evil, she may be one of my fave characters because she’s also pretty complex and a total badass.
Tati herself hates the horror genre, and thinks of herself as the opposite of Prudence – sweet and bubbly. We stan an actress playing her opposite!!!
We got to sit down with the actress to discuss the filming of the show, Vancouver, her tomboy nature, what she’s up to for 2019, and more. Check out the exclusive interview and photoshoot below to find out more about COAS’s baddie witch!
Choker: Stylist’s own, Pants: Laurence & Chico, Heels: Dolce Vita
Where were you when you got the call that you got casted?
I was leaving the set of an Under Armour commercial that I don’t think has ever even aired. My manager was with me and she turns to me and she smiles really big. And I was like, “What?” She goes, “You got it!” A week later I was in Vancouver.
How does it feel to be apart of this cast?
It’s an amazing feeling. I always say that I feel so lucky that we are such a family. After our first table read, we began traveling together around the studio like this amoeba, and nobody really knew where we were going and nobody really knew who we were following.
I feel like that’s the best description of how we are. We communicate well, we love each other so much, and I have learned a lot from these people. A lot of love.
How was it filming the first season of the series?
Filming has been a mind-blowing, incredible experience. It’s also been scary, to say the least. One, I’m not the biggest horror fan! I’m a baby when it comes to horror so in certain moments I was terrified. But, its been a blast because everyone keeps a light tone when we aren’t doing the dark, satanic thing that is our show. It’s a really good balance.
When did you start acting? Has this always been a career path you saw for yourself?
I did my first play when I was in the 3rd grade. I played Lemony Snicket in A Series of Unfortunate Events. It truly became a passion for me when I hit the 10th grade, though. I started going to a performing arts school. I tried out for visual arts, but forgot my sketch book during the audition, and was forced to try out for theatre.
I got in! I developed the passion eventually due to my love for people and my drive to be creative through storytelling. It was the path that I chose, but rather, it was the path that chose me.
Where do you gather your inspiration?
My dad is a very big inspiration for me. He worked in the entertainment industry before I was born and my birth is what stopped him form continuing that career. Everything I do is in ode to him.
What was your process of getting into this role?
It was a difficult step for me, but a fun challenge. I’m naturally a bubbly/happy person. I’m nothing like Prudence in real life. We share the fact that we are both devout in our beliefs, and I started there.
How did your character evolve over the process of filming?
When we first meet Prudence, she curses Sabrina and we naturally think she’s this mean girl. Over time, we see where her values lie and how when it comes to the solidarity for women or the empowerment of women, she will always throw everything else to the side and stand up for that. Her layers slowly begin to unravel throughout the season, and she shows her true womanhood.
Earrings: Alessandra Rich, Blouse: Alice & Olivia, Pants: The Blonds, Sneakers: Converse
You filmed the series in Canada, right?
Yes, I did!
How beautiful was it?
Incredibly!
Do you think the tree-covered landscape helped create more of a mystery of the show?
Being in the midst of the forest definitely brought a mysticism to the show. Especially when we shoot our night scenes – it created a natural spook and made us feel like we were in a supernatural witch world.
Were you a fan of the first Sabrina TV show?
Yes! My brother and I grew up watching Sabrina The Teenage Witch. I was a really big fan.
Do you think the show holds similar attributes or is it a new take on the idea of magic and mystery?
Completely new take – obviously it’s a lot darker, as we have a cult. Other than the characters that we remember and love, it takes a completely new look.
Was it hard to step into a TV show that was such a household show for years?
Because it was taking on such a different look, it wasn’t as much of a terrifying as doing it as the same show. I would have definitely felt the pressure for sure. But, because it was so different and we had so much freedom, I felt less pressure in that way. I hope the OG cast will appreciate seeing their stories being reimagined. It was so cool getting an IG message from them wishing us luck.
Being a villain is kinda cool! Because I am so not that. I am definitely empowered as a woman to be like, “I can do that!” Her no BS attitude is my favorite part of her.
What was the wildest thing that happened on set?
I mean, everybody tries to scare people a lot, which is really funny!
Do you want to stay in the vain of horror or is there a genre that you’re dying to try?
I’d love to go into something more existential or surreal realism. I definitely don’t want to stay in horror because I’m a baby when it comes to it! Trying a comedy would be awesome, too!
The best piece of advice you ever received?
Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
Earrings: Alessandra Rich, Blouse: Alice & Olivia, Pants: The Blonds, Sneakers: Converse
Top 5 beauty tips for fall?
I’m such a tomboy in my nature, so I’m not good with beauty tips. But, I can tell you that certain colors should be worn for fall – burgundy and browns! It’s also cold, so keep your skin moisturized!
How would you describe your personal style?
Tomboy-chic! TLC and Aaliyah in the 90s!
What is a step of your skin care routine you never skip?
Peppermint Castile Soap.
Who is your favorite beauty influencer?
I really love Rihanna, in fashion and in beauty! I think she’s a rock star and I love how she always steps out of the box with everything that she does.
I’m working on The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, and also on season 6 of The Hundred. I also have a Disney animated series coming out in 2019! I hope to move into feature films very soon. I would also want to get into music. I just recently bought a software program. I want to also get into philanthropic work with youth, as they are the future!
The essay below is written by Galore’s newest Cover Girl, Ebonee Davis. Ebonee is an author, actress, and model from NYC. Ebonee was a participant of Season 18 of America’s Next Top Model, and she has a popular TED Talk where she discusses the difficulties of being a black woman in the modeling and fashion industries.
The model is also known for her famous Calvin Klein campaign, because she was photographed with her natural hair (queen). Ebonee has walked for Yeezy and has participated in big campaigns like Victoria’s Secret Pink, Urban Outfitters, and GAP.
We love our newest Cover Girl, Ebonee! Check out the exclusive essay and photoshoot with her below!
My mom called Sunday afternoon just as I was disembarking my airplane at New York’s John F. Kennedy airport to inform me that she had recently become homeless.
I made the trip so that I could attend Vogue Magazine’s 15th anniversary CFDA Fashion Fund event. Since I began modeling, it seems that I’ve been forced to live this double life; suspended between the story I am creating for myself and the story that was handed down to me.
The separation has only become more apparent as my visibility within the entertainment industry grows. And the reality of this juxtaposed life has induced within me inexplicable pain.
Lingerie Set: Savage x Fenty, Earrings: Stylist’s own, Glasses: CHRISTIANAHJONES
Zebra Set + Kimono: Savage x Fenty, Necklaces: H. Crowne
I am often asked why I so vehemently proclaim my belief in God, and the truth is, I have no choice not to. I have to believe there’s a reason for the pain — a lesson, a plan, an outcome that I cannot yet see from my limited perspective. I have to believe that there is a divine order within the midst of chaos and that my pain is for the greater good; the greater good of myself and the greater good of humanity.
I have to believe that my pain gives me purpose by putting me in a position to be of service to others, and that by sharing my struggle, I will help free those who are psychologically imprisoned by their own trauma. I have to believe in a love that exists which does not involve suffering — an unconditional love — because the alternative is that these experiences mean nothing.
That some people’s lives are simply better and some people’s lives are worse and it’s all a luck of the draw. That our collective suffering is in vein and what we “love” with inevitably result in agony.
Zebra Set + Kimono: Savage x Fenty, Necklaces: H. Crowne
Top: Dyspnea, Panties: Savage x Fenty, Earrings: Queenie Cao, Hat: Piers Atkinson
I have encountered many who argue that believing in God is completely irrational and I have released the idea that it is my job to convince them otherwise. But to me, God is the most rational explanation I have for these experiences. My sanity relies on the notion that every experience I’ve had has been perfectly orchestrated for the ascension of my soul and the ascension of humanity.
For me, this particular photo shoot represents the next level of my ascension. It is the first photo shoot I did after relocating to Los Angeles to pursue acting. I came into acting the same way I came into activism: it was what I needed to do to save my life. I had to take what was hurting inside of me and put it out into the world so that I could free myself from it — so that I could keep it from swallowing me whole.
Bodysuit: Savage x Fenty, Necklaces: H. Crowne, Earrings: Queenie Cao
I have to express.
I have to walk in my truth.
I have to explore the many facets of myself that were once deemed inappropriate and inadequate by society to keep from going insane.
Acting is therapy to me. It is relief.
I did not set out into the world knowing that I wanted to be an artist. I started making art to cope, to communicate my truth and to manage what seemed to be an unmanageable burden. I make art to escape victimhood, to empower myself and to share my story instead of allowing corrosive emotions to fester inside of me.
Teddy: Vintage Frederick’s of Hollywood, Dress: Dyspnea, Glasses: CHRISTIANAHJONES, Earrings & necklace: H. Crowne
I make art to translate the feelings that there are no words for. I make art because often times art is the only thing that makes sense.
I was once told that God doesn’t waste pain. If that is true, then I know He has big plans for me. I have committed my life to being a vessel for the truth and I am excited to take this next step in my journey.
Meet Urias: a rising trans artist who is being strongly and widely supported by the LGBTQ community (we stan hardcore).
With her unique sense of fashion and her deep, melodic voice, she’s been creating a gorgeous space for trans women and trans artists all over the country.
We sat down with Urias to discuss her sound, must-see places in Brazil, and what’s next for her in 2019. Check out the exclusive photo shoot and interview below!
How would you describe your sound?
I would describe my sound as all of my international hip-hop, rap, and electronic influences mixed with my Brazilian culture. I will always try to put the things I have lived into my music. I think it’s important to use my voice to spread my messages.
Question here?
Well at first, as a community we were very afraid. There is a lot of fear among us (for obvious reasons). But, I guess we realized that we always will be haunted down by those who have hate in their hearts.
Hateful people are not gonna change. We decided to be together as never before, to show that we are strong and that we are never gonna stop fighting. The thing is we have always been fighting, they forget that we are used to it, we are trained, and this can’t not stop us.
I have to say Clube Belgrano in my birth city (Uberlândia, MG). The club has always accepted diversity. The first time I ever went there, I felt free to be me. It was amazing.
What beauty items can you not live without?
I can’t live without my highlighter and my lip gloss. Sometimes I don’t do full makeup, so I just put highlighter and gloss on my face and leave the house.
Where should our readers explore in Brazil?
One of them is called Batekoo. It happens in a lot of cities, but especially in Rio. It’s insane for those who love dancing, like me. Also, in Rio I love Lapa. the drinks are cheap and there is music on the streets – amazing. Every girl should go to Salvador, especially at the time of Carnival. The boys are so damn good looking! Save the date and the place, girls.
Maceió is a very beautiful place to spend vacations, and everyone should see the Lenços Maranhenses with their own eyes. It’s a once in a lifetime experience.
I have many, but I can’t not mention Rihanna, Azealia Banks, and Grace Jones (the queen). I also have a ton of admiration for my sisters Liniker, Linn da Quebrada, and Pabllo.
What’s a song you have on repeat?
I can’t stop listening is SZA’s song, “Garden,” from her genius album, “Ctrl.” I love her.
What’s next for you in 2019?
Next year, I intend to put my music on the road! I can’t wait to go on tour and make some videos. I’m living a dream that I’ve been dreaming since childhood, so I’m going to make the most of it.
Model, DJ, musician, influencer, world traveler, and overall cutie, Natalia Barulich, is Galore’s newest Cover Girl!
We sat down with Natalia to talk about going on tour with her boyfriend, Maluma, the beauty products she’s obsessed with (and owes her perfect skin to), her Guess Brand campaign, and who she’s dying to work with next.
Check out the cover shoot and interview below to find out more about this Cuban and Croatian babe from right here in LA!
What products do you swear by for your skin?
Everything by La Mer. I swear by them and their products leave my skin feeling and looking so hydrated and soft. Literally like butter. Every time I get to a shoot, the make up artist compliments my skin!
I had bad acne problems in the past so for me this is such an accomplishment to now maintain good skin and I really owe it to La Mer! No, this is not an advertisement either (laughs)!
What is your every day make up look?
I love a sharp cutting cat eye (without this I feel naked), winged out lashes, a pink or nude lip, and light blush. I don’t like wearing too much makeup, and I almost never wear eye shadow!
Dress: Stello, Gloves: Ritual, Earrings: Ranjana Khan, Hat: Eugenia Kim
How was it working for the Guess Brand campaign? Any thoughts on the drama surrounding Paul and the allegations?
I had an amazing experience working with Guess. I did beautiful campaigns with them, and they helped launch my modeling career. It’s always awesome seeing your campaigns all over a Guess store or billboard thousands of miles from home when traveling – which happened often!
Paul Marciano has hired me and my DJ partner, Esther, to DJ/perform at Guess’ many events overseas. I have a great relationship with the company and I thank them for helping me get my start from the very beginning.
Bodysuit: Luxe Fashion Label, Jacket: Stinson Haus, Heels: Gianvito Rossi, Rings: Elizabeth Garvin, Earrings: Kir
What’s your biggest beauty indulgence?
Massages! I love to get deep tissue massages to alleviate stress and to increase blood flow throughout my body. Also, I absolutely adore lingerie. Wearing amazing lingerie makes me feel beautiful and sexy. With gorgeous lingerie, a woman can feel beautiful for herself and for her partner.
What did your mother or grandmother teach you about beauty?
My mother is, and my Cuban grandmother was, very naturally beautiful. They taught me that the secret to beauty is to embrace your own particular natural beauty. People all look different and we all have distinctive features, so, if you have a feature that you like about yourself, then accentuate it!
For example, I like my eyes, so much of my makeup regimen makes my eye pop! And lastly – and this is the most important thing – confidence. Confidence in your own self and your own appearance does more to make us beautiful than anything, because confidence comes from inside, from our spirit.
What is your go-to nail color?
I love cherry red. It’s classic, sexy, and feminine.
What make-up product do you think is the most underrated and why?
Milani Cosmetics foundation. You can get it at CVS. The coverage is incredible and I find it much better than a lot of the big name brand cosmetics.
What products in your makeup bag do you never leave home without?
MAC Whirl lip liner & Chapstick. Those are my every day go-to for natural, plump lips.
Hat: Eugenia Kim, Choker: Anne Sisteron, Dress: Maison Alexandrine, Shoes: Ruthie Davis
Hat, jacket, & shorts: Ashton Michael, Boots: SENSO, Bodysuit: White Fox
You are a model, DJ, and musician. How do you juggle it all?
I try to have good time management, and I use literally every hour of the day to get all my work done. It’s not easy, but I love what I do, so every day is really exciting and fun. Plus I get to travel around the world literally every other week!
What is your go-to song to get any party started?
If I’m going out with my girlfriends, I love listening to old Swedish House Mafia. 8 years ago, electronic dance music was at its peak (in my opinion). I love the energy and feeling of that old EDM music.
Now, if I’m playing in a club or festival? I’ll probably drop a dope remix of an all time hit like “Seven Nation Army” or “Slim Shady.” Everyone always goes crazy when you play a classic crowd favorite remixed.
What was it like opening for the Maluma world tour?
Absolutely incredible. I played in front of crowds of 10,000 to 20,000 people nightly, and everyone really enjoyed the show. I loved connecting with the audience through the music and getting people dancing and warmed up before Maluma.
Favorite city on the Fame Tour?
That’s tough because we literally played in almost every amazing major city, and each city has its own feel. We started a lot of the tour in Spain, London had an incredible vibe, Zurich was so beautiful and the crowd in Napoli was especially unforgettable.
I could seriously keep going as each venue produced its own unforgettable memories! Our final show in Milan was extremely special to me, as I love everything about Italy – the food, fashion, architecture, and music culture. In addition, my boyfriend, Juan Luis, and I celebrated Domenico Dolce’s birthday in Milan during fashion week. That event was literally the most beautiful birthday I’ve ever been to.
The event rivaled Versailles during the days of Louis XIV. From waitresses dressed like Marie Antoinette to a spectacular performance by Cardi B with a room filled with dazzling chandeliers and flowers – it was truly the most beautiful birthday I’ve ever seen.
Who is your musical icon?
Fellow Galore Cover Girl, Lana Del Rey. She is my idol and my inspiration. I’m in love with her voice, dreamy lyrics, and melodies. Also just her entire persona.
Top 5 female artists of all time:
Lana Del Rey, Amy Winehouse, Shakira, Ariana Grande, and Christina Aguilera.
Bodysuit: Luxe Fashion Label, Jacket: Stinson Haus, Heels: Gianvito Rossi, Rings: Elizabeth Garvin, Earrings: Kir
I want to continue growing as an artist, writing and recording more music. I have more songs set to release in the next month following our first single, “Don’t Give Up.”
Of course, I’ll continue modeling and would love to connect with Dior and other amazing brands. I will continue to blog about fashion, beauty, life, and love. The role of being such an influencer and role model on social media for my young female audience is very dear to me.
I have the power to promote change and positivity through my social platforms by using my voice (which is so damn cool in this day and age)! A lot of women look up to me, so I always want to promote a good example. Especially for the youth of today, who are the future!
On October 30th – aka Halloween Eve – we headed backstage at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles to hang out with pop princess, Kim Petras, as she prepared to open up for Troye Sivan’s Bloom Tour.
We took our time at the show to hang out with Kim and to capture her in her element — getting bloodied ready to perform.
The timing could not have been more perfect to see Kim perform songs off of her newly released Halloween mixtape, “TURN OFF THE LIGHTS VOL. 1.” You can listen to it HERE.
Have you ever heard of anyone making a Halloween song of recent years? A whole ass Halloween MIXTAPE? I knew we’d been blessed before I even listened.
After taking a listen, though, I was super into it. Like, for real. She makes Halloween music acceptable all year round. We may have been watching her perform the songs near Halloween, but I could listen to “Turn Off The Lights,” in August, tbh.
Now I am haunted at the fact that most artist’s haven’t attempted a Halloween album and I dub Kim Petras the queen of Halloween forever.
Kim’s Halloween mixtape isn’t the only dope work she’s put out. All of Kim’s songs from “Heart To Break,” to “I Don’t Want It At All,” have been major hits, particularly among the LGBTQ community. It’s hard to go anywhere in Weho without hearing someone blaring Kim’s bops (including my apartment).
I would describe Kim’s musical stylings as the bubblegum pop that makes you want to dance, but with complex, descriptive, and unique lyrics. She is an artist unlike any other out there right now, and her music proves that she’s extremely talented.
Kim killed it at her show in LA opening for Troye Sivan, and we wish her the best of luck on the rest of her tour. We can’t wait to see her headlining her own tour very very soon.
Check out our time with her backstage below! You’ll be sure to fall in love with her if you aren’t already.
We all love the music, the interior design, the hair – the list goes on.
Most importantly, we all really love the iconic workout videos and workout fits from the 80s.
Who ever decided that 80’s workout gear was no longer okay in the world?! We kind of left the 80s fashion in the 80s until recent years (other than American Apparel, RIP).
Now, stores everywhere are selling bike shorts and scrunchies and portable, reusable water bottles. Hello, talk about accessible fashion. 80s workout fashion is reasonable, comfortable, and can be styled in a million ways. Aka, case and point, we should’ve never let the 80s workout fashion die when American Apparel did.
I often wish we could go back in time to the 80s, when working out was glamorous as hell. Instead of wearing printed nylon leotards with matching scrunchies to the gym, everyone’s wearing oversized, stained tees and workout leggings that wore out years ago. Yes, the latter is more comfortable – but, the former is just so…extra. And extra is a vibe.
Think no one agrees with me? You’re wrong!
Photographer, Carianne Older, wants to keep the 80s workout nostalgia alive. Carianne took us back in time with her Galore-esque workout video and photoshoot that she recently shot! We are so excited to share both with you exclusively here.
The landscape of the fashion industry has no doubt always leaned in favor of our straight-sized sisters, but 2018 reports show that there are more women today who wear a size 14 or larger than ever before.
Curious, no?
This means that the majority of us out here are considered “plus” size, even when realistically that’s not the case. Women’s clothing just favors smaller, straight sized women, and most of it runs really small on top of that. That also means that likely, for most of us, finding clothes that fit is a constant struggle.
As a curvy girl myself, I’ve forever struggled with being on the cusp of straight sizes and plus sizes.
I bounce back and forth between buying a top in a large at a straight-size store, searching every nook and cranny on this planet to try and find cute jeans that actually fit my hips, and finding that the clothes in a plus-size retailer are also too big.
With the amount of money I’ve spent on pant alterations in the past five to ten years, I probably could have bought a house.
Oh and don’t even get me started on the amount of jeans I’ve returned, because it’s just sad.
Last year, I started seeing ads for Khloe Kardashian’s brand, Good American. I fully admit – I’m not an avid Keeping Up With the Kardashian’s watcher, but I have always appreciated that these sisters have always supported girls with curves.
After measuring myself and checking the size charts, I bought my first pair: a skinny black pair, from the “Good Waist” collection, in a size 16. When they arrived, I was totally bummed because they fit my hips, but the waist was wayyyyy too big.
I managed to have my denim doctor (Shout out to Rob at Schafer’s Garment Hotel in Los Angeles!) fix the waist on these, but I was still saddened that they weren’t the perfect fit. And, after seeing how bomb Khloe looked in her Good American jeans and bodysuits, I was even more bummed thinking about how I have never found a pair of well-fitted jeans.
Months later, I decided to try a pair in a 14: a dark blue skinny pair, from the “Good Legs” collection. Now, these looked really good with a pair of heels, but if I had to sit down, I would get that dreaded muffin top bulging over the waistband and uncomfortable marks on my skin.
They became what I referred to as my “skinny jeans:” basically, I was only able to wear them to events where I would be standing up and likely not eating anything. I accepted the fact that this was going to be my reality. I could either starve myself down a few inches to comfortably fit the 14, or plan to spend additional money on alterations for the slightly larger size.
Unfortunately, this was the same across all brands — I had tried a 16 from Levi’s, and had the same issue. At plus-size retailer, Torrid, I would sometimes be an 18 and then I’d be a 12 (depending on what style of pants). The sizing for girls with hips my size is all over the place. No two retailers or even two styles within the same brand were consistent.
Let’s just say I was left confused and sad, as we all are when a shopping day goes bad. It’s just really shitty.
But, a few months ago, Good American realized that they were receiving 50% more returns between sizes 14 and 16, compared to any other size in their 00-24 size range. And since the brand believes that women are not defined by size, they set out to solve the issue of the totally random sizing standards for these sizes.
After months of research, focus groups, and feedback — one of which I’m pretty sure was a survey that I filled out via email — the brand invented the new denim size of size 15, which aims to bridge the gap by offering an additional size option for those customers that sit on the cusp of straight sizing and plus sizing. Basically, they have answered our damn prayers!
So, of course, you know what I did next. I set off the try the size 15! Size 15 debuted as a part of the new Good Curve collection (Good Curve Straight and Good Curve Flare, $159-169) as well as additional fan-favorite styles. I tried the Good Curve in Blue189 — which have a great vintage Levi’s type feel (which, by the way, has been a great struggle to find in bigger sizes).
More than anything, this new sizing addition has made me realize that a) I’m not the only one who is “in-between” plus and straight sizes, b) so clearly I’m not the only one having these issues, c) I’m not fat, I’m actually average sized and d) there are brands who actually care about making their customers happy and aren’t afraid to change the fashion industry standards in doing so.
Oh, and also, d) I can finally wear a well-fitted pair of jeans and feel like Khloe.
Are you guys coming to Girl Cult Fest? If your answer is yes, then you’re in for one of the best days of your life this Saturday. If your answer is no, buy tickets HERE.
Choker: Chanel, Dress: Val Stefani, Gloves: Garo Spark, Shoes: Joyce Echols
The best part about Girl Cult is the huge amount of boss babes that will be performing and paneling all day, including our fabulous and talented sub-headliner and Galore’s newest Cover Girl, Lauren Jauregui.
Our Cover Girl, Lauren, has also guest starred on Girl Cult’s popular podcast (available on iTunes and Spotify HERE). We sat down with Lauren to talk to her about her road to solo artistry, how the world discovered she was bi-sexual, why she believes that everything happens for a reason, and so much more.
Don’t forget that you can come hang with the Galore crew and Lauren IRL at Girl Cult Fest this weekend! Tickets available HERE.
Below is a transcribed snippet of our Girl Cult podcast episode with Lauren! Click HERE to listen to the full episode.
Choker: Chanel, Dress: Val Stefani, Gloves: Garo Spark, Shoes: Joyce Echols
Earrings: Leceil Designs, Necklace: Gabriel New York, Dress: The Blonds, Shoes: Brian Atwood
Galore (Lexie): Let’s start from the beginning. Where are you from?
Lauren: I’m from Miami, Florida — born and raised!
Lexie: Siblings?
Lauren: Two younger siblings. I’m the oldest of three.
Lexie: Did you go to public school or private school?
Lauren: I went to a boy/girl Catholic school until 6th grade. In 7th-11th grade I went to an all-girl Catholic school, and then I dropped out to start Fifth Harmony.
Lexie: Do you feel like going to an all-girl private school impacted you in any way?
Lauren: Fuck yeah, of course it did. I think every single experience makes you who you are. I gained this crazy insecurity because there are so many girls trying to navigate that social world, which is intense.
But, at the same time, I was raised with a very feminist education. I never felt like just because I was a girl I couldn’t do something. That thought never crossed my mind growing up.
Earrings: Leceil Designs, Necklace: Gabriel New York, Dress: The Blonds, Shoes: Brian Atwood
Lexie: That’s rad. I wish that for all girls growing up. It’s sad people don’t typically think like that.
Lauren: Yeah! The school was just run by really dope nuns that believed in women! Like, we didn’t even have home ec, cause they were like, you don’t just belong in a house. You can do stuff in a house, but it’s not your priority. We want lawyers, doctors, and creatives.
Lexie: I really love that. So, did you have a first job? Like a barista, babysitter, something like that?
Lauren: No! Honestly I never did anything like that. My first job was working in this industry in Fifth Harmony.
Lexie: That’s SO crazy. Did you always want to be a singer?
Lauren: Yeah! Definitely. And I write music. I always knew I wanted to be a singer and performer. I used to make up dances in my room and make my grandmas watch.
Lexie: Did your mom or grandma sing or songwrite?
Lauren: My dad! He plays drum, piano, and sings. All self-taught. My mom says she used to be in choir but, I don’t know about all that (laughs).
Lexie: Did you take songwriting or singing lessons when you were younger?
Lauren: It was all self-taught. Really I just started taking singing lessons now as a solo-artist.
Lexie: I want to talk about X-Factor. How old were you when you auditioned?
Hat: Vintage, Earrings: 8 Other Reasons, Corset: The Blonds NY, Gloves: Stylist’s own, Bottom: Agent Provocateur, Shoes: House Of CB
Headpiece, bodysuit, & shoes: Affair, Earrings: Gabriel New York, Boa: Stylist’s own, Gloves: Garo Sparo, Stockings: Wolford
Lauren: I was 15! I did a cattle-call in North Carolina. It was like 10,000 people and me. There were 3 different rounds. After 3 months (the week before my birthday), I got a call that I was selected!
Lexie: Was X-Factor fun? Stressful?
Lauren: Stressful as fuck. I’m thankful, but I would never do it again (laughs). It was very nerve-wracking, strenuous, barely any rest – it was a lot.
If you would like to listen to the remainder of the interview, please click here to listen to Episode 18 of the Girl Cult podcast, featuring Lauren.
Holiday season is right around the corner (I’m sure you’ve noticed, since in every store, wreaths are already being hung). With Christmas, New Years, Hanukkah, and countless other holidays coming your way, it’s time to start thinking about gifts.
After trading in your summer crop tops for long and cozy sweaters, the closest thing to baring your skin is your aroma. And, there’s no better gift than perfume, really. It’s a good price range, it’s thoughtful and personal, and no one can ever have too much delicious smelling goodness!
If you need a little help to give something cute for your friend, sister, cousin, or coworker – we got you covered!
Here are our top picks for all 12 signs (aka, know your gift-recipient’s birthday prior to purchasing).
Aries
March 21 – April 19
The bonafide bombshell of the zodiac. You thrive on high engagement, loyalty, and impulse to set your ambitions going. Whether you’re single or taken, it’s easy for you to fall in love.
Because of your brazen boldness, you aren’t afraid to challenge anyone that stands in your way. Embrace the unapologetic badass in you with Betsey Johnson’s Pretty ‘N Punk!
You radiate an energy that aims to capture attention. Whether it’s your taste in music, obsession with nice clothing, or a melodramatic love life, you constantly thirst for attention among strangers.
But, deep down, you never want to let anyone know how you really feel. Even if you lack a sense of tact, you also want everyone to see the best of your intentions. Indulge your inner saccharine sweetness with Pink Sugar.
Everyone loves to hate you or they hate to love you (I know it sounds harsh, but this is written by a fellow Gemini). Your wit, intellect, charm, and larger than life extra-ness all deserve to shine this season. Not to forget, your legendary thirst trap game is piqued to match your hyper-curated taste in perfume, as you love to think highly of yourself.
With a price tag to match your high IQ, why not you max out your credit card with an Escentric Molecules perfume? Fun fact: This perfume adjusts to your pheromones for a maximum olfactory experience.
Shrouded in mystery, nobody (except for your family, partner, and closest friends) knows how you really feel and think. A born conversationalist and bon vivant, you live to be social. Even if you are more introverted, you still have a streak of the social butterfly in you, as you like to enlighten people with your charming personality.
Whether you’re an altruistic angel or a daring devil, express yourself with Huda Beauty’s Kayali Elixir. Be warned: the waitlist is long, just like the amount of people who wanna befriend you.
You live for the finer things in life and all of your friends know it. Not only do you radiate confidence, your presence is contagiously unforgettable.
Even if a price tag is less than three digits, it still has to look expensive. Rather than draping yourself in diamonds, rock the room in Pinrose’s Secret Genius shimmer perfume body spray.
You may be equally cerebral as a Gemini, but you are steadier with your personality. Your quest for a picture perfect goal comes with a baggage of persistence, which makes you feel like your life is filled with consistencies.
Trying out new things isn’t exactly on the books; however, when you want to go on an adventure, you are fully committed to it. Let Le Labo’s spicy citrus-based Jasmin 17 bring out the inner adventurer in you.
An eye for wellness, refined taste in beauty, and a strict skincare regimen – these traits make up at least 75% of your personality. While communication has never been the greatest of your strengths, you let your body do all the talking when you have nothing to say.
Made by a fellow Libra sister, Kim Kardashian West’s Body II is born to let you slay in the snow.
Your introspective insight, intuition, and IDGAF attitude instantly draws attention. Your charisma is out of this world. Like a Leo, you live for the finest quality, but the only difference is that you revel in the pleasure of enjoying the moment, whether it’s eating your favorite food or putting on makeup.
When you’re all dolled up, dress codes are thrown out of the window. Live it up like the revolutionary that you are with Fresh’s Cannabis Santal.
You are a free-spirited dreamer, thinker, and a wild soul who can’t be tamed. Your radical honesty, spontaneous energy, and fire-cracking attitude is bound to make heads turn. It doesn’t matter if you’re all dressed up in a sexy sweater dress or a modest turtleneck top, people want to lean in to hear your words.
Since winter isn’t the time to be seen in anything too skin-baring (thanks to the cold weather), flaunt your fashion finesse with Wild Spirit’s aromatic diffuser bracelet and perfume set in Chill!
As the busy bees of the zodiac, your calendar is always booked up with work, social events, and, as of now, birthdays on Christmas and New Year’s. While you are often reserved, you never fail to surprise people in more ways than one whether it’s your sense of humor or eccentric fashion statements.
You may be stubborn at times, but that doesn’t stop anyone from seeing that you are fully equipped with a big heart. Flaunt your inner Steel Magnolia with Anine Bing’s Savage Rose.
As the OGs of the zodiac, you are lovely social creatures who live to be surrounded by people. You also have an offbeat sense of life that defies expectations and bucks conventions.
You like to believe that you invented everything from the selfie to the hottest catchphrase. Made by the one and only fellow Aquarian sister, Paris Hilton, her self-titled fragrance is tailored for you.
Last but not least, you are the style superstars of the zodiac. Like your Pisces sister, Rihanna, you like to experiment with shapes, silhouettes, and textures to create the outfit of your dreams.
Your calm and soothing voice always complements/contrasts with your outfit. Always the dreamer and goal-seeker, wear your imagination close to your heart with Ariana Grande’s Cloud.
Natalie Alyn Lind’s mother was literally pregnant with her while on set filming a TV show, back when she was acting.
Talk about being born into it!
But actually, Natalie was born into the entertainment industry – her mother being a full-time actress and her father being a producer and director – and Natalie mentions that she was destined to be in acting from the start. The rest is history.
Fast forward to now, and Natalie has tons of huge acting roles under her belt – One Tree Hill (alongside her mother at age 4), iCarly, Criminal Minds, Gotham (as Silver St. Cloud), The Goldbergs (as Dana Caldwell), and now, The Gifted (as Lauren Strucker), a new Marvel TV show about mutants.
Natalie is obsessed with acting and doesn’t see herself stopping any time soon, but she acknowledges that her career can definitely be all-consuming. The Gifted actress tells me that for her, it’s extremely important to remain unique and herself while playing so many different roles.
We sat down with Natalie to talk about these ups and downs of her career, what it’s like filming on the set of The Gifted (hint: there’s lots of stunt people), her go-to makeup, and her favorite animal (you will never guess).
Check out the exclusive interview and photoshoot below, and be sure to check out Natalie playing Lauren on The Gifted ASAP!
You’re on the new Marvel TV show called The Gifted. Can you tell us a little bit about the show and your character, Lauren Strucker?
The Gifted takes place in the Marvel X-men universe. Mutants are living in a world where they are being mistreated and terrorized for being who they are. Everyone is fighting for survival.
The show follows a family, the Struckers, and their journey after they realize that the two siblings are mutants. Our characters are forced to go on the run, until they meet the mutant underground. Together, they form a new family, and fight for survival and equality.
How are you and your character similar (if at all)? How are you different?
Lauren Strucker and I are definitely similar. Before the pilot, I had a conversation with our show runner, Matt Nix, and he asked me a lot of questions so that he could pattern Lauren’s character after aspects of my personality. It was important to both of us that my true self with shown through Lauren.
She is very hardheaded, and follows her heart no matter what. Her main priority is always protecting her family and fighting for equality for all. My main goal has always been keeping this character extremely compassionate, even when being put in difficult situations. She’s also extremely stubborn at times (which i’m not at all…wink wink).
Your character Lauren is meant to be the popular girl. How does that affect how you play her?
When you first meet Lauren, on the outside, she has the perfect life. But what you don’t realize is that she is hiding who she really is, because she is afraid how others might see her. For me, being “popular” is an illusion, and is overrated.
Lauren was having to put on a front, which in the long run made her extremely unhappy. In this season, I’m excited that we’ve gotten to see another side of her. She finally gets to be who she truly is, and she realizes who her real friends are. In the long run she’s so much more content, and 100 times more confident.
What are your powers on the show?
My character has force fields – which allows her to block and pick up objects. This season we have been experimenting a lot more with Lauren’s powers, and she is discovering that she can do things she never knew she could do before.
She also has a combined power with her younger brother, Andy. When they hold hands, they can disintegrate objects. Together they become some of the most powerful mutants in the X-Men universe which makes them extremely dangerous (and fun to play).
Tell us what a day to day is like on set of the show!
Days on The Gifted set are always different. I feel extremely blessed to be surrounded by such talented and genuinely loving people. The cast and crew are like a second family to me. Our call times are typically 6AM, and I am not a morning person. I drag myself out of bed, and force feed myself coffee.
But, the moment I arrive on set, I feel awake and ready to work, because honestly, it’s so much fun and it’s always where I would choose to be. Working with the powers and stunts is probably one of my favorite parts. I’m lucky that I have an awesome stunt team that allows me to attempt most of my own action sequences.
It’s hilarious because we’ll be all be extremely serious filming a scene where we’re racing to save mutant kind. The mood will be dark and edgy and suddenly cars begin to blow up, and stunt people go flying. But, the moment they yell “cut,” we all laugh and tell stupid jokes. Seriously, best of both worlds.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve gotten from someone?
In the entertainment industry, we are constantly having to pretend to be people that we are not. We create characters in our minds, and live them out day to day. In the process of doing this, sometimes it’s hard to remember who you are. It can leave you feeling lost.
I was told at a very young age to hold on as tight as you can to your true self. Because once you lose that, you’re nothing. Pretending to be something that you’re not is an easy routine to fall into. Staying original is vitally important.
What genre of TV would you like to delve into next?
Since I was 2 years old, I have been obsessed with anything horror/spooky/thriller related. I’ve always loved scary movies, and it’s so exciting to me that the horror genre has come to television. The Haunting of Hill House is one of my new favorite shows. I’d love to find a project similar to that.
You grew up in an industry family, both of your parents being in entertainment. What was that like? How did that help you figure out your career path as an actress now?
I was literally born into acting. Literally. My mom was pregnant with me while she was still filming her TV show. I grew up surrounded by film and television, spending my childhood on sets visiting my mom and dad and hanging out with their crews. I will always look up to my parents, especially my mom. She’s an incredible actor, and has taught me almost everything I know.
When I was little, I admired the way that she would be able to play all these different people. I knew immediately that this was something that I wanted to be a part of. I am beyond lucky that both my parents were supportive of me following my dream. I owe them everything.
What’s it like navigating the industry as a young female actress?
Being young and a woman has its perks and its downfalls. Especially in this industry, I found that people can, at times, be extremely condescending. When that happens, instead of taking offense, I have learned to do this – prove them the hell wrong! 2017/2018 has been a huge transition period for women. We are approaching an era where women will stand together, and demand respect. And I’m proud to be a part of that movement.
You wear so many cute outfits! Where do you love to shop?
My style is so wacky. I love mixing and matching. Online shopping is my favorite pastime. I’ll spend hours looking for cool new upcoming brands. My favorite website is The Real Real – they carry vintage designer clothes that are impossible to find elsewhere. My sister, Emily, and I also love to thrift shop. I love the idea that clothes can be passed, then passed, and passed again. My closet creates its own history.
Favorite new brand?
My favorite new brand is Y/Project. I love that the company is not afraid to step outside the box. Women always ask me where I find my clothes, and guys ask what the hell i’m wearing (laughs).
Day to day beauty routine?
Whenever I’m not working, I like to keep my look simple. When I’m doing my makeup, I make sure to keep my face looking fresh. My face is covered with freckles. I used to hate them when I younger, but now they’re my favorite feature.
So, I use a tinted moisturizer, and concealer underneath my eyes. Then I add some mascara and bronzer to give my skin a pop. For my hair, I shower and add some beach wave sprat for texture. Then I’m good to go!
I use Chanel’s Hydra Beauty Créme. I’m obsessed with the scent of all Chanel products. I recently just started adding Drunk Elephant’s moisturizer to my nightly routine. I love their company because their products are all natural. They stay away from synthetic ingredients that sometimes end up being harmful to your skin.
Lashes or lips?
I’m a lips kinda girl. Whenever I meet someone their mouth is one of my first things I notice. I try to do a lip mask every other night to keep mine healthy. I also have a huge lipstick obsession. I own every hue on the spectrum.
3 fun facts about you?
Since I was little pigs have been my favorite animal. I love them so much that I have never consumed any pork products (but, I am curious about how bacon would taste).
Baking is a passion of mine – one day I hope to open up a bakery.
I grew up homeschooled. My parents are both in the film industry, so instead of spending time in a classroom, they allowed me to travel and experience the world.
Her newest single, titled “Drag Me Along,” is off of her up and coming EP. It features a plethora of stunning woman graciously moving through time while Barry’s voice creates a landscape of imagination.
emoji. I’m always happy, and of course it has a cowboy hat, because I’m from Texas!
VALLEY HIGH 
Link in bio #VALLEYHIGHLIFE
With the amount of money I’ve spent on pant alterations in the past five to ten years, I probably could have bought a house. 
. . #sunday #sundayfunday #seerockcity #tuxedo #ootd
