Read more from the June Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Eight Best in mag.
Featured The Eight Best
Read more from the June Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Eight Best in mag.
Our June Issue was just released and we're beyond excited to share our celebrity cover!
This month's celeb cover (front and back) is Pooch Hall of Showtime's Ray Donovan which is currently filming here in NYC! His son Djordan Hall is on the back cover. The shoot took place in Flatiron (Chanson, Humming Puppy and on the set of Ray Donovan). Our June issue is focused on awareness of a number of issues. We talked with Gabriel de Santino about how to read beauty labels when it comes to cruelty-free products. We chatted with Dr. Sherry Ross OBGYN/GYNO about women's health and to touch on a number of topics that you may have always wanted to know but never asked. We're fans of CNBC's The Deed and are excited to have developper, flipper and philanthropist, Sidney Torres about his second season and important tips on how you should approach your next project as well as how he got into the business. Our contributor, Dr. David Greuner, shares how we can get a great workout by taking it outside. We focus on 5 foods that blast fat with Eraldo Maglar as well as some fitness tips. We also talk with Celebrity Hair Stylist and Founder of Ouai, Jen Atkin to find out how she got into the business, how to ensure that our hair looks great this summer and her collabortion with Gurney's Resorts!
We have a number of features that are in each month's issues including The Art of the Snack - focusing on Monkey 47, Bingely Books, Bingely Streaming, Something You Should Know, Athleisure List, Athleisure Beauty and more roundups that focus on 4th of July, 5 must have leggings and more.
Each season, we look at must have style that we suggest you should include in your wardrobe. We love luxury leather goods by Alexandra Clancy known for clutches, wrist straps, satchels, totes and more. We also suggest that Romply is the perfect romper to add to your closet as it goes from day to night.
We loved shooting at 15 Hubert St (we had earmarked this apartment since we went to their launch party) in Tribeca which is a stunning apatment that has a phenomenal terrace. We sat down with Louise Phillips Forbes of Halstead to find out more about this unit!
ATHLEISURE MAG: We enjoyed attending the launch party for this unit as there are so many great aspects to this apartment from its layout to the terrace - what can you tell us about this Tribeca property?
LOUISE PHILLIPS FORBES: It’s the quintessential Tribeca duplex loft with 2-bedrooms, 3.5-baths and 2,830 square feet of indoor living space, and an impressive 630 square foot landscaped terrace with stunning open views facing east and south, including a view of One World Trade Center. Interiors of this former warehouse, ingeniously designed by CetraRuddy Architecture, retain the authenticity and openness of the original space, with wide rooms, truly high ceilings, stretches of exposed brick, and oversized windows. The fixtures and materials artfully echo the historic aesthetic of the building. The expansive living/dining room with open kitchen features, high-end stainless steel appliances, marble counters, a wine fridge, and a large island. The grand master suite contains two walk-in closets and an en-suite marble spa bathroom with a walk-in glass shower, deep soaking tub, and custom double-sink vanity. Located on the upper floor, the media room or den is a highlight of the home, with access to the stunning terrace. Beautiful wide-plank solid oak flooring, central A/C, full-size W/D, and ample closet space throughout complete this luxury residence.
AM: What amenities are offered in this building for residents (common areas, services, etc.)?
LFP: Nestled on a quiet cobblestone street and with just twelve residences, this boutique building affords residents privacy. The building's lobby is appointed with concrete paneled walls and wood paneled ceilings, and is attended by a part-time doorman, as well as equipped with a state-of-the-art package reception and retrieval system. 15 Hubert boasts a beautifully designed and landscaped communal rooftop lounge offering scenic views of the Hudson River as well as One World Trade Center.
AM: We love the interior design for this unit - tell us more about it as well as the stunning painting that is in the apartment!
LFP: The beautiful interior design of this model residence was done by Cheryl Eisen and her creative team at Interior Marketing Group (IMG). They really did an outstanding job bringing this remarkable home to life with their sophisticated and elegant furnishings and accessories. I’m also thrilled that my dear friend, notable artist King Saladeen, loaned us one of his incredible paintings. Titled, “Fight for Equality”, it’s prominently featured and has an asking price of $30,000.
AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around this building (Wholefoods, workout studios, eateries, etc.) and what neighborhood is this considered?
LFP: Tribeca is one the most coveted areas of the city to live in and this particular building is conveniently located to just about everything, including the West Side Highway, parks and bike paths, multiple fitness clubs, SoulCycle, boutique shops, fine dining and charming cafes, Whole Foods, specialty wine shops, and nightlife. The area is not only family-friendly, it’s also close to Soho, the Financial District, and Battery Park City.
AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information?
LFP: It would be very easy to call this unique apartment home given the grandeur of the rooms, designer details throughout, and large terrace! To schedule an appointment to see Penthouse-C, your readers can simply contact me directly and I will be happy to give them a private tour and discuss the purchasing details. I can be reached via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-381-3329.
AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?
LFP: Visit my website at http://louisephillipsforbes.com/ and click on the tab for “My Listings”. You can view pictures, 3D floor plans, and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with from downtown to uptown. The available homes range from this loft in Tribeca to a 4-bedroom corner penthouse on Park Avenue with a large wrap-around terrace on the Upper East Side.
Read more from the May Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Above it All in mag.
GOAL! Who are you cheering for this year as the World Cup 2018 takes place starting today through July 14th! As you embrace your hometown or your honorary hometown - there are a number of ways that you can rock great styles at your viewing parties! Throughout the season, we will add brands that have great style that you can add to your event.
We're kicking it off with our friends at Yandy.com who have amazing bodysuits that are a fun way to cheer on your favorite soccer team whether worn solo or with your favorite denim looks!
You have to have options and UMBRO has a number of tees within their 2018 Geo Graphic Tee collection that lets you rock your country of choice!
Read more from the May Issue of Athleisure Mag.
Read more from the May Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Shimmer Beauty in mag.
When it comes to that time of the month, we all have our kits of sorts that span what we use to handle our periods directly, our comfy clothes that allow us to be a bit more comfortable, food and beverage and of course our anytime distractions - your streaming platform of choice. It's interesting that that series of days has a number of routines and must haves that we gravitate towards to get back to our normal day to day.
When it comes to our actual periods, it's about finding effective products that ensure that there are no mishaps made in our clothes as well as remains comfortable for us as we continue about our normal activities. A number of these methods are those that we have used for years as they have been things that mothers, sisters, aunts, friends etc have shared. But, we also know that there are alternatives that you can take out of your underwear drawer.
When it comes to your underwear, it is an essential garment that moves with us no matter what we do in our day. The importance of comfort and being able to transition from a number of activities is an essential whether you're working out, at the office, lounging at home and more. As this is one of the most essential layers that you rock, why not try something that's leakproof that will protect you during your period and provide you the confidence that your body needs to ensure that you are not creating stains on your clothes.
Knix is reinventing knit wear by creating 3 styles of athletic leakproof underwear in thongs, boyshorts and bikinis in black and nude tone. The underwear has a super absorbent pad with a leak resistant backing that is built into seamless underwear. Even more important in its durable construction is that the underwear itself is thin so you won't add any bulk to your outfits and it wears just like your other intimates that you own!
Read the May Issue and see 5 Items and Tips Father's Day Style in Athleisure Mag.
Read more from the May issue and see In Our Bag in mag.
Read more from the May Issue and see The Eight Best in mag.
We've been a fan of colored diamonds for a number of years and it is interesting to see the trends within the hues that have begun to go mainstream. We sat down with Jason Quick, Registered Jeweler and Laboratory Director, of American Gem Society Laboratories to find out about Brown Diamonds and how they are becoming popular on red carpets, with celebrities and making their way to retail stores as well.
ATHLEISURE MAG: What are brown diamonds?
JASON QUICK: Brown diamonds occur naturally when the conditions in the earth are just right. These earth-toned diamonds are available in an endless assortment of colors from deep, rich hues to delicately soft. They have a range of accent colors including pink, red, orange, yellow, and green. There is a brown diamond for all tastes!
AM: Are brown diamonds also known as chocolate diamonds?
JQ: “Chocolate Diamond” is actually registered to Le Vian, a company that is a member of the American Gem Society. To learn more about their diamonds, please visit their website.
AM: Why have the red carpets and interest started to lean towards this stone?
JQ: Colored diamonds, in general, have gained in popularity in the past several years. Celebrities - from J. Lo to Rihanna (editors note: she wore Le Vian earrings and necklace at the 2018 Grammys) - each have their own reason for sporting a colored diamond. For starters, colored diamonds are regarded as ‘different’ while still maintaining an undeniable elegance. For some, a colored diamond may be icing on the cake for a specific look or style. We’re finding that the warmth, richness and uniqueness of colored diamonds appeals to jewelry lovers… famous or not.
AM: Why would someone opt for this diamond versus traditional ones?
JQ: Personal taste is a big factor. Brown diamonds exhibit a wide range of accents, hues and tones that give the diamond an interesting and unique appeal. Essentially, jewelry buyers purchase brown diamonds because they are beautiful.
AM: What is AGS and what is your role in the diamond industry as well as to educating consumers?
JQ: The American Gem Society (AGS) is the country's preeminent jewelry trade organization dedicated to consumer protection. Since 1934, we’ve been making it easier and safer to buy jewelry of any kind. We help protect consumers by providing continuing education to our member jewelers, who must also adhere to our code of ethics. We provide credentials for jewelers who undergo our rigorous educational requirements, and must recertify their credentials annually.
AGS Laboratories is a nonprofit diamond grading laboratory created by the American Gem Society. In 1996, AGS created AGS Laboratories because they saw a need in the diamond industry for a diamond grading lab that shared their mission of consumer protection and a high-standard of business ethics.
Our Find a Jeweler search helps jewelry buyers easily connect with AGS jewelers in their area.
AM: What is the Color Diamond Document?
JQ: The Colored Diamond Document gives clear, concise language, describing the many dimensions of the diamond’s color. The Colored Diamond Document presents the technical aspects and nuances of fancy colored diamond grading with content and graphics that are easy to understand—as well as easy to communicate—to the jewelry buyer. The AGS Laboratories Colored Diamond Document combines visual language with an intuitive design to communicate the qualities of a diamond consistent with how people perceive color—with not only their eyes, but their emotions.
AM: What are you seeing as a trend within color diamonds as we continue into 2018 and step into 2019?
JQ: Though colorless diamonds continue to reign supreme as a traditional symbol of love and even glamour or status, colored diamonds continue to gain in popularity. They are seen as a departure from tradition for jewelry lovers who want to express their personality. Brown diamonds, in particular, are seen as an accessible entry point to fancy colored diamonds. Because of their neutral color, they are great for accessorizing with any outfit. AGS members are using brown diamonds quite often in fine
fashion jewelry. It looks great with yellow and rose gold, as it turns any piece of jewelry into a study in rich warmth.
AM: Are there diamond cuts that brown diamonds really look best in?
JQ: Unlike colorless diamonds, which are cut for brilliance, brown diamonds are cut to show off their color, which means they are beautiful in any shape. Each diamond crystal is unique, and is
cut to show off the richness or accent colors of the diamond.
AM: What should our readers look out for when they are purchasing this diamond to ensure that they are getting their best diamond?
JQ: Consumers should trust their eye and buy what they love. Buying a brown diamond with an AGS Laboratories Colored Diamond Document can help a jewelry buyer better understand and appreciate the nuances of their diamond. In general, we recommend buying diamonds with grading reports from independent third-party laboratory. However, know your lab. AGS Laboratories was created to protect the consumer, while many labs were created as a service to the jewelry trade.
AM: Please let us know anything else that we have not covered, but that you would like to share with our audience.
JQ: When buying something as rare and precious as a diamond, it’s important to shop with a jeweler you trust and to ask for a diamond grading lab report from a third-party laboratory who will give you an objective opinion. Visit americangemsociety.org for more information.
PHOTOS COURTESY | PG 37 CBS + PG 39 Omi Privé
Read moe from the May Issue and see Something You Should Know | Brown Diamonds in mag.
Readers of this magazine know that we love Reality shows and BRAVO is a personal favorite of our Co-Founder and Style Director. Any show that involves the Real Housewives franchise and their spin-offs is always a winner in our studio. Lala Kent is a fan favorite on Vanderpump Rules which showcases the lives of hostesses, servers, bartenders and DJs that work at SUR with Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ Lisa Vanderpump. In addition to watching this self assured hostess, Lala has a passion for music and this past season we see her perform, and she has also launched a beauty line which we included in a number of looks within her editorial.
From the time Lala came to our set for this shoot, we realized that she is just as stunning, witty and as personable as she is on the show. This girl’s girl talks about how she became a part of this show, where we can find her in LA and more about her beauty line, Give Them Lala. Of course we had a great time incorporating some must have summer looks that are chic with a twist!
ATHLEISURE MAG: We've been fans of yours since you first appeared on Vanderpump Rules. What were you doing prior to this show and how did you end up connecting with the show and what was the audition process like?
LALA KENT: Before the show, I was going on casting, auditions, and fit modeling was paying my bills. Vanderpump Rules came to me when I was eating at Sur. Lisa saw how I interacted with some of the people that worked there and offered me a job as a hostess. With that came a position on the show!
AM: Throughout the seasons that you have been on, we have seen you join the cast, feel out the cast, make bonds, adjust and in this past season it seems like you really came into your own - how has being on the show allowed you to grow and what are you proud of after all these seasons?
LK: Being on the show has been amazing. I think being able to look back and reflect on my actions has helped tremendously. I’ve been able to see when I stand up for myself and when I’m acting like a fool! Everyone that is part of the show has brought a lot to my life and continues to help me evolve.
AM: Can we assume that you will be back for another season?
LK: Yes! I will be Giving Them Lala for another season.
AM: You and Lisa have such a great relationship and seems like the ultimate mentor and life coach rolled into one - what is it about Lisa that makes you comfortable to hear her feedback and to take her advice?
LK: Lisa has such a kind heart and offers such motherly love and advice. That, on top of seeing that she is a successful woman, you can’t help but go “I need to listen to her because she’s got it figured out”.
AM: We know that Stassi is a fan of the goat cheese balls at SUR. What are you fave dishes and/or cocktails that you enjoy there?
LK: Oooh I love the goat cheese balls too! They are insane. I also love Joe’s pasta and the Penne Sicilienne...and the dumpling. The sauce is epic.
AM: This season we actually see you perform! How long have you been interested in music, what were the elements that came together to make you embrace performing and what can we expect next within this portion of your career?
LK: I grew up in the arts. From choir to plays to musicals, I was just obsessed with it all. Once you leave high school and it’s no longer something you have the luxury of just doing everyday, you slowly lose the confidence you worked so hard for. James really reminded me of my roots and what I love to do. From here, I just hope to keep making music. It is extremely therapeutic for me.
AM: Tell us about BOY - what inspired you to make this song, how is it doing and what's the next single? When does your album drop?
LK: My song BOY just hit number 1 on iTunes in the Electronic genre. That is amazing to me. I was inspired by how it was so EDM but also trap. It gave me creative freedom to think of myself in a different setting, which was very “club”. That’s out of the box for me. I have another single out called “4 U” on iTunes and Spotify. It is a completely different feel than “BOY”. We also just finished recording a song called “What’s it For”. That will be out within the month. As far as an album goes... my schedule is crazy. I think an EP is going to be my next venture. I can’t wait.
AM: We're living in a time of women taking things to the next level and creating a strong community of support - this season you were embracing this belief and really rallying the cast as a whole and especially the woman on the show to do the same. How important is women's empowerment?
LK: I’ve always been a girl’s girl. I know that women get the job done and that there is nothing more powerful than a gang of females. We all have our differences- for me it’s about embracing one another and realizing we are stronger together than we are apart. This is an outlook that’s evolved as I get older. The things that used to make me insecure or second guess myself, are suddenly things I’m thankful for.
AM: We knew you were stunning, you came to set this way and then of course, we created amazing looks for you - so it was not a surprise to us that you have a cosmetic line coming out. Tell us me about the line from the thought behind it, what is currently available, what will be available down the line and where we can get it!
LK: #Give Them Lala Beauty has grown so much in such a short period of time. I started with only 6 lip colors and now have over 50 products. For lips we now have mattes, glosses, and liquid lipsticks. We also expanded into highlighters, eye shadow, eyeliner, and are still growing! My brand is my baby and she is growing up so beautifully. I’m extremely proud.
AM: We were sad to hear about your father passing last month and we remember that your mom was with us on set - how important is it for you to ensure that in addition to all of the amazing opportunities that you have enjoyed that you also spend time with family for the balance that we all need?
LK: Family will always come first. That’s how it has always been and it will always be. If an opportunity comes my way that is meant to be, it will never take away from my family time.
AM: What are 3 skincare products that you swear by?
LK: My Clarisonic, Lancer Skin Polish, Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturizer, and let’s add one more... I die for Desert Essence Original Face Wash. Pair that with your Clarisonic and all your skin dreams will come true.
AM: Since you're in LA, where is your favorite place to eat and grab drinks, where do you workout and what's your studio of choice to work out?
LK: Oooh, this is tough. Obviously, I love me some Sur. I love Mr. Chow, but I’m always a sucker for the Polo Lounge. I go crazy for caviar. I have a gym where I live. It’s got great equipment and everyone is familiar with everyone- we all know each other’s routine so no one is ever fighting or waiting over a machine.
AM: You have a great body, what are 3 workouts that you do that keep you looking summer ready?
LK: I owe the bod to my trainer, Jenna Willis. She is amazing. I love my food and I love my drink. Somehow she puts together routines that kick my butt into great shape even with my undisciplined diet. I love my sumo squats, side planks help my tummy get firm, and the rowing machine is a great warm-up!
AM: How do you give of your time or give back from a philanthropic standpoint?
LK: My family and I are very into animals. My mom works for the humane society. I contribute my time and money to the Humane Society of Utah. I’m also an advocate for our whales- I’ve teamed up with PETA for Empty The Tanks. That is the cause I am most passionate about.
AM: Feel free to tell us anything that you haven't been able to or would like us to know!
LK: I have a really hard time walking in heels unless I’m slightly drunk.
Read more from the May Issue and see Holding Court with Lala Kent in mag.
Read more from the May Issue and see How To Dress | For MDW in Your Cabana in mag.
Read more from the May Issue and see #TribeGoals in mag.
The Spring is all about keeping it fresh and when it comes to updating your closet, we always have to introduce a few pairs of sneakers into the mix, We sat down with founder, Belieni Stevens of BELIENI. His line is comprised of luxury Italian sneakers that are truly ways to elevate the athleisure style.
ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your fashion background.
BELIENI: My fashion background started when I made the decision to start a men’s line of footwear.
AM: When did you realize that you wanted to create your own line?
BS: I have honestly always wanted to start a men’s line. I was just fed up with the limited options out there for men and young men with larger feet, who wanted something other than basketball or skate shoes to wear. I love luxury sneakers and dress shoes just as much as basketball shoes, but the number of luxury brands that cater to 14 and above are small.
AM: Why are you inspired by Italian Craftsmanship?
BS: Italian craftsmanship and design are second to none, just the heritage alone is enough. Today, companies are using their materials but crafting them in other countries. I am old school in the idea of why fix what isn’t broken.
AM: Fashion has so many categories within it. What is it that speaks to you about footwear and that you felt that you could create something that wasn't there?
BS: Nothing comes close to bringing an outfit together quite like the right pair of shoes. You could have on the nicest, most expensive outfit, but if you have on the wrong shoes, you might as well be naked.
AM: Tell us about Belieni and what celebrities have worn the brand?
BS: Michael Thomas, Jared Cook and Masika that I am aware of.
AM: What celebrities would you like to see wear the brand and what collaborations would you like to see?
BS: Personally all of them..but to name a few Jay-Z, Wale, 2Chains, Kid Cudi, Rick Ross, Fabolous, Will Smith, Mark Wahlberg, Idris Elba. I would love to collaborate with Bentley and Tissot.
AM: Tell us about the assortment and will there be new offerings this Spring?
BS: Yes, we have already released 2 new color-ways this spring. We have our low tops that we will be unveiling later this year as well.
AM: What additional items do you see being included within the Belieni brand?
BS: I am working on backpacks and possible apparel, I am still playing with that idea.
AM: Who is the Belieni girl/guy?
BS: Well… I guess that would be me. I design both the men and women’s lines.
AM: When you're not designing and working on this line, how do you take time for yourself?
BS: When I can find time, I draw and design no surprise, jump on the sticks when I can and ride my motorcycle to the coast.
AM: Where are you based out of and where do you enjoy grabbing a meal, working out and shopping?
BS: BELIENI is based out of Florida. I love Sushi, Sushi Katana is one of my favorite spots. Even with my busy schedule, I try to hit the gym at least 5 days a week.
AM: What is currently on your playlist?
BS: Future, Kid Cudi, Wale, Nipsey, Steve Aoki and Morten.
AM: How important is giving back and what do you do in terms of philanthropy/charity?
BS: It is very important, I volunteer at my local VA (Veteran Affairs) , and donate when I can to Ocean conservation organizations.
PHOTOS COURTESY | BELIENI
Read more from the April Issue and see Spring's Kicks in mag.
We always love our covers and it's always fun to have the opportunity to work with someone that we have previously worked with before. We're excited to have Danielle Moinet as this month's celebrity cover and our first person to grace two covers for Athleisure Mag! We enjoyed our photoshoot with Danielle and we sat down to catch up on what she's up to since we last spoke to her. We talked about her life as an athlete, about her road to the WWE, new projects that she's excited to be apart of, running the Chicago Bears out of Soldier Field, the importance of empowering women and girls in and out of sports and her love for the fans that she continues to see on her many trips as she is always on the go!
ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your athletic journey as we know you have played a number of sports!
DANIELLE MOINET: For me I always played sports. I was an athlete growing up - I ran track, jumped hurdles and played tennis. In college and when I got out of it and moved to Chicago, that's when I joined the Lingerie Football League, the LFL, and I played for the Chicago Bliss and I played Corner Back and I loved it. I played 3 years and it's full contact 7 on 7 football - very aggressive.
Then I went on to wrestle and a lot of the girls that hadn't wrestled before in WWE had some form of an athletic background. Health and fitness has always been a big thing for me and getting to the gym, so I think that people that work out a lot too are athletic as well and being in a women's sport is very important.
AM: Specifically, tell us about your journey into wrestling, WWE and what you are currently doing.
DM: I was working a Comic Con in Chicago, and WWE was there and it was a dream of mine to get in. There was not an application process setup like there is now when I first started, so I ran over to their booth and told them that I was interested and that I had been wanting to do this for years. I decided to play football for another year and then that's when I went down to WWE to have my tryout and 6 weeks later I was down there training and working out and I got my contract. So it was really a great place in time. There were only 6 girls training at the time. I was the 6th girl and now there is something like 20 or 30 girls training. WWE was amazing - I wrestled there for 6 years and I was on the main roster on Mon. Night RAW, Tues. Night Smackdown for 4.5 years and got to live out my dream.
As of Nov, I left WWE to spread my wings to other avenues and to be able to enjoy life and live it through new eyes. It's bittersweet as I miss my fans and the people I worked with, but I see my fans more often because I do so many appearances where I get to travel the world to meet them.
AM: We caught up with you when you were in the midst of a media tour - can you tell us what you were promoting?
DM: During my time in NY when I did my photoshoot, I was doing a lot of things! I was taking meetings, doing photoshoots with a number of modeling agencies and then I was also there for my first non WWE appearance that was in Manhattan and so I was able to go onto CBS Radio and talk to them about women in sports and the importance of women having a presence in athletics and for young girls to have role models to look up to - being athletic and knowing that strong is beautiful. Body positivity is something that is very import ant to me and I think it's great to be able to speak out to that! It was so much fun and I love everyone in NY!
AM: On set, everyone loved your hair, what products do you use and what tips do you have for healthy hair?
DM: My hair! I'm very fortunate that my mom is a hairdresser and growing up, she never let me dye it crazy purple or orange and crazy colors. I had actually never even dyed it until my mid twenties. I am super blonde naturally and I was always in the sun as a kid by the pool. I always used great products like Biolage or Matrix. One thing that was really amazing that I started to use the last couple of years is a wet brush. The wet brush helps with the breakage in your hair and having bangs, I have really noticed the difference using the wet brush because my hair doesn't break as much and it's able to stay long and healthy - that is something I absolutely swear by and love. And also, good Moroccan Oil and having good oil everytime you blow dry your hair - it's very important.
AM: We know from your IG that you're constantly on the go, what are 3 beauty products that keep you looking fresh and dewy and are a must in your routine?
DM: I am always on the go so beauty products that I love - I always have a spray tan, I do not go in the sun a lot so I always try to protect my skin as far as sun exposure goes, so it's all about wearing SPF. I do not go into the tanning bed so I can keep a wrinkle free life. I love love love and swear by Skin Medica - they're TMS Serum is something that I really do love. I completely see a difference in my skin when I use that. Their eye cream - amazing - it's expensive and I have tried alternate routes and dfferent things and I just see such a difference with them and that's something that's just great. Another thing I love - my lips don't get too chapped too much because I'm always on the go in airplanes - I love the Lip Slip by Sara Happ. It's a lip balm and it's so thick and potent and it lasts you forever - I got it from Nordstrom and I love it. My lips never crack, never peel and I love it.
AM: What's your personal style - what do you work out in, what do you go out in for a night out and what is your beach style?
DM: My personal style is super super different - I look very girly, but I am actually super tomboy! I love my Jordans, I love my Jays, I've become a big sneaker person since living in LA so really ideally, if I could live my life I'd do it in workout clothes and athleisure vibe and tennis shoes. That's how you could catch me everyday wearing. If you catch me in jeans or everyday pants it's because I have to because I am going somewhere. What I actually work out in is - I'm very cute on Instagram with matching outfits, but that is not how I am. In real life, I'm not like that I don't think. I get a lot of workout clothes sent to me from different brands and people that I work with so I can never find anything that matches when it is time to work out. I am not that girl who matches in the gym - I'm getting in there with a hat the majorty of the time with no makeup. I hate wearing makeup - I love getting glammed up, but I don't like makeup. I am usually in a hat, with it pulled down super low and getting my workout done because I don't want anyone talking to me and workout time is not playtime for me.
For going out, now that I live in LA, I have a very different west coast vibe. I love everything that is oversized and I love a great Tor Merch long sleeve shirt 2 sizes 2 big with baggy pants and a cute heel. If I'm going out, you can catch me in jeans, boots, a body suit or tank top. That's my vibe and I rarely wear a dress - again unless I have to or if I'm in Vegas or a place that's dressy. LA is just not that dressy and NY isn't really either. I have very different vibes - sometimes it's Bohemian or Urban - I like to change up my style.
Style and music are very all over the place for me as there are tons of genres of music I like and tons of styles that I like to dress in.
Beach style is bikini, flip flops and a cover up. Nothing special - no makeup maybe a little chapstick - that's all - very low maintenance.
AM: What are 3 of your favorite foods that are your go to for energy to assist in working out and do you have splurge foods that you enjoy as a treat every now and then?
DM: I'm a big fan of black coffee before working out. I try to stay lately from pre-workouts that have artificial sugars in them and I am trying to go back to that coffee route or just getting enough sleep as that is very good. Protein is a must for my diets and if I don't have a protein shake, I see a huge difference in my legs and body as far as my abs and cellulite go. I can see a negative difference without them and I need my protein high up. I also need some nuts before the gym - healthy fats are good. I don't like to be super full when I go to the gym because when I am full, I want to take a nap. Cheat foods that I love, pizza! I am obsessed with pizza, Mexican food, I love Queso and chips. My friends make fun of me because I eat a whole tub of queso - it's just really ridiculous as I need to be nowhere near that and then cookie dough. Cookie dough is my downfall! I went through a phase where I was obsessed with cookie dough for like 4 months and my friends and I joke that that’s where my butt came from the four months that I ate it. So we call it my cookie dough butt! I still have it but now I am just training it in the gym!
AM: We saw that you did something pretty amazing with the Chicago Bears last fall, can you share with our readers?
DM: Chicago Bears – so in the fall, ran the Bears out of the tunnel and was the first women to ever run them out of the tunnel! They said it had something to do with the fact that the flag is really heavy and then at Soldier Field, the lake wind effect off of the lake is so strong that it just moves the pole around and it’s crazy heavy! They usually don’t have guests running people out of the tunnel BUT I knew someone that knew someone and they reached out to me and asked if I wanted to do it. I was kind of unsure if I could and then they said that a woman had never done it before and that’s when I said, “well of course then – I have to be the first at everything that I do”. Don’t put me up to a challenge and I will never say no, especially if it is the first woman. It was amazing and fun. The players were super confused as to why I was down there haha! I’m a huge Bears fan so I loved it!
AM: What travel plans are you looking forward to this summer?
DM: This summer I am very fortunate that I am traveling all over. I have so many bookings for appearances to see so many of my wrestling fans. I’m a little west coast, a little east coast. I may have a few things that are Canada and then I am really really really excited about something that we haven’t announced yet which we can’t announce yet but it’s overseas and it is taking me to one of my places on my bucketlist – so I’m very excited about that!
As far as trips go, I look forward to taking my girls trip which we are going to Mykonos, Greece and I have never been there. We are just going to have a great time and I am looking forward to that because I have a great group of girlfriends.
AM: In LA what is your favorite place to shop, a workout studio that you attend as well as where you love to grab cocktails and a meal?
DM: Living in LA, obviously we have great killer stores. All the stores on Rodeo Drive, Beverly Grove the Mall – that’s really good and we have large stores with all the name brands. Some of the places that I really love to shop and that are fun that I tell my friends to go to when they’re in town – hidden gems on Melrose that are kind of really trendy and inexpensive and I love them – one is called Eden Sky and the other one is Style Delivered and I get really cute fun sunglasses, earrings and bandanas. I got my stuff from Coachella there and it’s good finds that are inexpensive so when you pair them with other really good pieces, that’s great. And of course, we have things like Revolve out here and Pretty Little Things and House of CB, Mistress Rocks – LA’s great we have some really good shopping. As far as food goes, I love Urth Café, it’s one of my favorites. I’m pretty sure that I brought my mom and dad there, friends from back home in North Carolina. You just sit outside and have bubble tea – which is amazing and all different kinds of food which is really good. We actually just got a Joe & the Juice which they have in NY and I’m obsessed with so I am really happy about that being there. I love all the healthy food options we have out here the salad places and everything like that which is really good. And then we have great trendy workouts. I love SoulCycle – I swear by SoulCycle as it’s fun and it makes me feel amazing to just get out there and sweat – so I really love that. Unfortunately, I have been dealing with an ankle injury for the past 3 months so I have kind of been having to deal with that and it’s driving me nuts. But I am looking forward to getting back into the swing of things soon.
AM: Are there any projects that you're working on that you want to let our readers know about?
DM: I’m just really excited to be working with so many brands right now! I have two clothing companies that I am working with and I will be able to get my own line out and then I have one kind of beauty thing I am working on. I’m taking meetings with other people as far as my appearances go and doing things overseas so it’s all in the beginning baby stages. I have only just started to be able to do this stuff as I wasn’t able to do this with WWE and am looking forward to spreading my wings. My sister’s charity is back home in North Carolina – The Dean Thomas Moinet Foundation - love working with them when I go back home and am looking forward to doing a special project with them when I am back home to raise money in the Raleigh/Durham, NC area for the charity!
We shot Danielle Moinet in Manhattan's Lower East Side at Hotel Indigo LES which is filled with a number of great hitoric sites. Christopher White, the properties' Director of Sales and Marketing talked with us about the hotel and how it connects with the community.
ATHLEISURE MAG: Are there different personalities that Hotel Indigo represents on the city/community?
CHRISTOPHER WHITE: Hotel Indigo’s ethos is design, art, music and embracing the neighborhood that we are in - so every hotel will represent those qualities in different way depending on the location.
AM: Specifically, tell us about Hotel Indigo LES - when did it open, what is the atmosphere and the amenities that are offered for guests.
CW: Hotel Indigo LES opened in the heart of the Lower East Side in November 2015. Reflecting the community, the hotel is an urban oasis that features spacious accommodations and breathtaking views of the Manhattan Skyline. Hotel Indigo LES is equipped with everything needed for the modern traveler - think a rooftop bar and pool, a gym, package handling, parking and we even provide amenities for your furry friends because we know kittens and pups are important too.
AM: Tell us about the lounges and pool.
CW: Hotel Indigo LES is the perfect spot to visit day or night - with stunning views of Manhattan from every place you look, the view is unbeatable - especially now that Summer is right around the corner! The 14th-floor lobby is decked out with floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around almost the entire room, spacious L-shaped couches, coffee tables and a cafe. Not to mention the ceiling is covered in a mural by the famous Lower East Side graffiti artist, Lee Quiñones.
Beyond the lobby, guests are invited to checkout the heated plunge pool and bar, Mr. Purple, both located on the 15th floor rooftop. The space offers summer drink menus for guests to enjoy, while taking in amazing views of Lower Manhattan.
AM: Is the pool for guests only?
CW: We prefer to keep the pool exclusive to hotel guests – if locals are looking for a pool break we recommend booking a staycation at the hotel.
AM: What do locals have the ability to enjoy whether they are staying as guests or just wish to stop by?
CW:The lobby, cafe, and of course Mr. Purple - come relax, get some work done, or have a drink - locals and guests can do it all at Hotel Indigo LES!
AM: What Spring/Summer packages do you guys have coming up?
CW: Yes! Our Mother’s Day and Royal Wedding packages are can’t miss. Check them out and more on the Hotel Indigo LES website.
AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that surrounds Hotel Indigo LES.
CW: Located right in the heart of the Lower East Side, there is nothing you can’t find around Hotel Indigo LES! Tons of art galleries of all different styles, music halls, bars and restaurants all surround the hotel. Think hotspots like the famous Beauty & Essex and Katz Delicatessen, Rockwood Music Hall and more.
AM: Tell us about Mr Purple!
CW: Located on the 15th floor of Hotel Indigo Lower East Side, the space completely captures the vibrant and artistic spirit of the LES. Boasting a 360 degree view of downtown Manhattan from the two outdoor terraces and a beautiful interior, the venue recreates a hip, artist-loft ambiance. The larger terrace includes its own swimming pool (enough said) and outdoor bar, a perfect setting for yummy bites and signature sips against the backdrop of NYC.
AM: Does the Hotel Indigo LES have activities that they participate within that are local to the community?
CW: We sure do! Our goal is to hire all of our line staff from the community which is part of our ethos and culture. We participate in LESSEN which is part of the Henry Street Settlement in the Lower East Side and 30% of our line staff from pre-opening was hired from there. We also volunteer quarterly for Manny Cantor Center, Bowery Mission and am always working to always give back to the community that we are in.
AM: Please feel free to share anything that we may not have asked you but that you would like to share?
CW: Hotel Indigo LES is all about the art. From the moment you walk, to the sleeping rooms and lobby area, the spaces all reflect the art that can be seen all over the LES. With artwork featured from the likes of Mr. Brainwash and Lee Quiñones, guests can see the spirit of the LES at every turn.
Read more from Athleisure Mag and see Beyond the Ropes with Danielle Moinet in mag.
Tribeca Film Festival is back for its 17th year for another full season of parties panels and films that span documentaries, thrillers, romances, sci-fi and more. We kicked off our time at the festival by heading to PUBLIC Arts at the PUBLIC Hotel in the LES for MCM's debut of the first global teaser for The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion Documentary.
The exclusive viewing party paid homage to hip hop. The documentary honored the cultural influence of stylists such as Misa Hylton who defined ’90s hip hop fashion by creating some of the most iconic looks with top artists such as Lil’ Kim, Mary J. Blige, and Missy Elliot. The film's producer, Lisa Cortes and director Farah X talked about the upcoming documentary which will debut in full, this fall.
The night's emcee and TV personality, Bevy Smith welcomed a number of performers who hit stage wearing styles for the upcoming MCM X PUMA collaboration that has yet to be released. Paula Weinstein of Tribeca Film Festival said a few words about the importance of the film and providing recognition to the efforts of those featured in the film. DJ Olivia Dope and 9th Wonder spun throughout the night along with hip hop dancers that hit the stage. The night culminated in two performances with this years 2 time Grammy nominated rapper, Rapsody and one of hip hop's founding father's Big Daddy Kane - all rocking the upcoming collaboration.
Additional attendees at the event included: Stefano Tonchi (Editor, W Magazine) Rich The Kid (Rapper), Naturi Naughton (STARZ's Power), Ryan Leslie (Recording Artist + Producer), Casanova (Rapper), Sheldon Bailey (Actor), Young Paris (Rapper), DJ Trauma, T-Barz (Rapper), Vickatrillion (Model + DJ), Talia Coles (R&B/Soul), Luann de Lesseps (BRAVO's RHONY), Gillian Hearst Simonds (Contributing Editor to Towne & Country), Hailey Laine (Wilhelmina Model) and Makalea Reve Heard (Wilhelmina Model).
Read more from the April Issue and see Hip Hop X MCM X Tribeca Film Festival in mag.
Read more from the April Issue and see In Our Bag | Safe Sun Kit Essentials in mag.
The Met Gala took place earlier this evening to kick off the Heavenly Bodies exhibition at The Met which illustrates the link between fashion and Catholicism. With a number of looks that were worn by celebs in fashion, music, sports and beyond - we had to share 16 of our favorites.
Read more from the April Issue and see 5 Items For Your Derby Style in mag.
Read more from the April Issue and see How To Dress | For Brunch in Bed in mag.