Wear This Not That

We are so lucky to score two fantastic guests for this special episode! Amanda Pearl Brotman is the founder and designer of AMANDA PEARL, a sustainable accessories and jewelry brand. Plus, Kelly Kratus Nelson, the Director of Operations for AMANDA PEARL, also joins the show. First, Amanda and Kelly speak about their revolutionary brand and the inspiration behind providing luxury jewelry at affordable prices. Amanda explains the difference between unethical diamonds and ethical diamonds. Tune in as we chat about celebrity press that AMANDA PEARL has received, while we reveal our favorite pieces from their collections! This is next level, people~you won’t want to miss it!! In This Episode: [03:30] All about Amanda and how AMANDA PEARL started.   [10:55] The difference between ethical diamonds and unethical diamonds.  [12:40] How Kelly Kratus Nelson fits into the picture.   [18:30] The moments that stick out most for Amanda and Kelly while growing AMANDA PEARL.   [26:55] Do not buy fake jewelry; instead, save up and buy a designer piece.   [30:00] Kelly and Amanda talk about their favorite pieces EVER!  [40:00] The future endeavors for AMANDA PEARL.  Key Takeaways: Unethical diamonds have been underground for billions of years; digging them up is destroying the landscape.  Ethical diamonds are chemically and optically the same as diamonds mined in the earth, but they're made with technology. Buy jewelry that you feel comfortable wearing; your pieces shouldn’t be living in a safe.  Most likely, you are paying way too much for jewelry; shop with AMANDA PEARL – they have cut out the middlemen.  Bio:  AMANDA BROTMAN: Founder / Creative Director New York-based Amanda Pearl Brotman is the founder and designer of AMANDA PEARL, a sustainable accessories brand whose aesthetic is a study in dualities, creating a truly modern sensibility and approach to jewelry. Born and raised in the Seattle, Amanda’s childhood was both full of culture and the arts, and the freedom to explore the wild outdoors. Twelve years studying and performing with Pacific Northwest Ballet instilled an unerring discipline and sharp attention to detail, which was tempered by her ceaseless curiosity about the natural world. Constantly pushing boundaries, Amanda left for NYC where she received a degree in Art History and Visual Arts from Barnard College. After a tenure at Marc Jacobs, in the technical design and production departments, Amanda brought her experience to Erin Fetherston’s womenswear label, where she was Collection Director, before decamping to launch AMANDA PEARL. Amanda is settled in NYC with her husband and boys, but still considers the Pacific Northwest ‘home’ – drawing upon its stunning natural beauty and innovative spirit as inspiration for her work. Amanda won the Fashion Group International Rising Star Award for her handbag designs and was most recently a finalist in the fine jewelry category. KELLY KRATUS NELSON: Director of Operations Born and raised in Cleveland, OH, Kelly has called New York City home for almost a decade. In 2014 she joined the AMANDA PEARL team first as an intern while completing her degree in Strategic Design and Management from Parsons, and later as the Operations Coordinator. She credits the strong females in her family, and her education at an all girl’s high school, to giving her the knowledge and experience of the magic that happens when women support each other. Her desire and commitment to the AMANDA PEARL team is not only because she believes in the product, but because she feels aligned to the vision that Amanda continues to create. Kelly resides in Brooklyn with her husband and (to the dismay of her family) two cats. Fun Fact: At her wedding in April 2018, Kelly’s "Something Borrowed" was Amanda’s veil, and her "Something New" was the Ripple Climber Full Pavé Earrings in white gold. Links Mentioned: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/amandapearl Amanda Pearl https://amandapearl.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AmandaPearlCollection/ Quotes: “You want to wear it. You want to enjoy it. Life is short. I'm not designing things to stay in a safe.” -Amanda “I'm very hard on jewelry, so it's kind of nice to be able to shower with it.” -Kelly

One of our favorite people ever, Stephanie Gardella, joins the show. She is the Chief Operating Officer, Resident Philosopher, & Nelipot at Ultimate Living & Hard Night Good Morning. In this episode, we go deep into Stephanie’s fashion crime history. She loves utility wear, isn’t a risk-taker, and HATES to shop. Also, Stephanie only has a few pairs of shoes, and she doesn’t care about bags. The excellent news is Stephanie loves jewelry! We give Stephanie lots of fashion advice that she can start implementing today. That way, she will no longer be a walking fashion crime. Tune in as Stephanie gives us a little lesson in essential oils and explains what exactly Nelipot means. In This Episode: [02:15] All about one of our favorite people ever, Stephanie Gardella. [06:10] Stephanie loves utility wear, and she’s not a risk-taker when it comes to her fashion choices.  [09:45] High-five if you’re part of the Stepmom Club! [14:25] OMG – someone that hates wearing shoes?!  [21:30] Stephanie doesn’t care about bags, but the good news is that jewelry is her thing!    [23:50] We give Stephanie action steps on becoming a more fashionable version of herself.  Key Takeaways: The more you change your frames, the more you change your look.  Everyone looks good in a pair of high-waisted jeans; if you don’t have a pair yet, then you need to get one!  Great style does not mean you need expensive clothes.  You can blend your essential oils to match perfumes; you can get a high-end essential oil and turn it into a blend – it’s so much better for your skin! Bio:  Stephanie is the Chief Operating Officer, Resident Philosopher, & Nelipot at Ultimate Living & Hard Night Good Morning. Links Mentioned: Eileen Fisher https://www.eileenfisher.com/ Stephanie on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stephgardella

We are coming up on over a year of this new Covid lifestyle. Not only has the pandemic turned everyone’s lives upside down, but it has totally turned the fashion industry on its head. In this episode we chat about the best 2020 fashion trends...(our favorite was obvi the face masks!) We love when a designer does a face mask; however horribly impractical they are.  As we scroll through the biggest sellers of the past year, (birks and sweats to name a few) and what the industry is doing to reinvent itself. Just like most businesses, the fashion industry was hit, and it was hit HARD. They lost billions and billions and billions (you get the point) of dollars. Sadly, many of our favorite brands had to shutter because of it. ☹ Tune in as we talk about vegan "leather", the New York Fashion Week name change and Anna Wintour wearing sweats and shades working from the middle of her living room. In This Episode: [01:50] Masks are by far the best fashion trend of 2020.   [03:25] Sadly, some of our favorite brands had to shutter because of the pandemic.  [07:40] Moving forward, what can we do to help out the fashion industry?   [16:50] Vegan leather?! Stop calling it that - it’s plastic!!   [23:25] Leave New York Fashion Week ALONE!!  Key Takeaways: To help struggling brands, give them shout-outs in your content! It will help introduce people to their business.  Vegan leather is actually plastic – both are bad for the environment! Stop thinking you are better for buying “vegan leather.”  Sneakers are the ticket right now – that’s what 2021 is all about.   If you’re shopping, please support small businesses.    Links Mentioned: Tom Ford https://www.tomford.com NYFW https://nyfw.com/home/

Ready to create a new life after your divorce? It's time to get glam for your court date because, yes, divorce style is a thing! In this juicy episode chat all about the Wall Street Journal's article, Forget Wedding Dresses. Divorce Style Has Arrived, by Rory Satran, Fashion Director of the WSJ where we learn about Mary-Kate Olsen's picture that went viral during her divorce proceeding. Does anyone in Hollywood ever stay married? Apparently, what people are wearing to these proceedings is actually really important according to many who work in the court systems. Just know this, what you wear in the court room in person or on zoom matters more than you think. Fashion plays many roles in a person's life and this is one where having your style put together could really help you! Anyone who is post-divorce, think of this as a new beginning for you to restore your most authentic self. Don't worry, we didn't forget all of you men out there as well! We touch on men's fashion post-divorce and why you buying new clothes whenever starting over in life is definitely a positive fresh start. In This Episode: [08:30] Divorce style is real! Even the Wall Street Journal says so.  [12:15] Mary-Kate Olsen’s divorce style went viral recently.  [15:25] After a divorce, it’s time to work on your revenge body and change your style.   [21:00] The keyword is FREEDOM. Freedom after a divorce will breathe life back into you.  [26:10] Let’s not forget about the men during the divorce. Post-divorce is a great way for men to learn about self-respect.  [35:50] You HAVE to buy new clothes after a divorce (or any life change) – it’s mandatory!  Key Takeaways: After a divorce, seek help to start your glow-up because professionals know better when it comes to style.  Changing your fashion style after a divorce can be a way to build confidence.  Men need to dress well after a divorce.  A new pair of shoes and a new pair of jeans really will go a long way to boost your confidence.  Links Mentioned: Forget Wedding Dresses. Divorce Style Has Arrived. https://www.wsj.com/articles/forget-wedding-dresses-divorce-style-has-arrived-11612616414 The Row https://www.therow.com/us

Happy Birthday, Nolan!!!! It’s the BestDayEver.com because it’s Nolan’s birthday today!!! So, Nolan had massive birthday plans for the first time, and obvi Covid threw a wrench in that process. Well, he still had a fantastic week as he was in INSTYLE mag this month! WHAT?!?! Best. Birthday. GIft. Ever. We chat all about his shopping trip in Boston, Nolan finally practicing his driving and spills the tea about his new fashionista friend in Maine. Plus, Nolan reveals why Gucci is SO annoying, and we talk about the Super Bowl of Fashion AKA H&M's Simone Rocha Collection that sold out at record speed. In This Episode: [02:45] Nolan’s big birthday party plans!!   [09:40] Finally, Nolan has some amazing friends in Maine – including a social media fashionista. [12:10] Holly has been on Nolan’s ASS about driving – she needs a DD!!    [14:00] All about Nolan’s birthday shopping trip in Boston.   [18:30] The reason that Gucci is SO annoying.  [22:30] The exciting gifts that Nolan got for his birthday.  [25:40] Did you see the Simone Rocha pieces at H&M?! Key Takeaways: Are you having a rough week? Laughter is good for your soul and your overall health – find someone who makes you laugh in public!  It’s okay to buy yourself a birthday present – after all, you know yourself best!  H&M is great for fashion-forward pieces without breaking the bank.  Simone Rocha is a QUEEN – her work is dramatic and fabulous.  Links Mentioned: Nolan’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stylebynolan Zuma https://zumarestaurant.com/locations/boston/ H&M https://www2.hm.com Simone Rocha https://simonerocha.com Simone Rocha + H&M  https://www2.hm.com/en_us/free-form-campaigns/simone-rocha-hm-designer-collaboration-2021.html

NEXT LEVEL ALERT!!  This week is NEXT LEVEL with D'Andra Simmons joining us from the Real Housewives of Dallas. The fashion gods are smiling down upon us this week!  She is a pioneering businesswoman, skincare expert, philanthropist, and reality TV star. First, we dive into D'Andra's background and speak about the journey that led her to create such a thriving empire. Plus, she spills the tea about her fashion while filming The Real Housewives of Dallas. Did you know that the executives have to choose their outfits for confessionals and reunions? She explains how they decide which fashion pieces she gets to wear and, sadly, which ones get the boot. Tune in as we give our Fashion Week predictions, and D'Andra provides us with the history and current scoop on her skincare line Hard Night Good Morning.  In This Episode: [03:10] D’Andra starts from the beginning and reveals her backstory.  [14:20] The secret to sales! D’Andra loves to sell – we talk about her extensive background in retail.  [20:50] D’Andra left the retail industry in pursuit of being an actress.   [26:30] We get the scoop on D’Andra’s fashion for The Real Housewives of Dallas.  [34:05] Fashion Week is coming up! We give our predictions.   [41:15] As a small business, you have to think about every single dollar. D’Andra speaks about the marketing needs of her brand.  Key Takeaways: Fashion Week is going to come back bigger and better than ever!   Women dress for women – not men! It’s time to pick out your Fashion Week outfit because everyone will be excited to see what you’re wearing.  When owning a small business, be careful about what you’re giving out for free. As a brand, step up your social media presence – it can be the best form of ROI.  Bio:  D'Andra Simmons is a pioneering businesswoman and skincare expert who's spent more than 20 years in the nutritional and beauty industry. She's the founder/CEO of the skincare line Hard Night Good Morning and CEO/owner of Ultimate Living InternationalInc. She's also the star of the hit Bravo series, The Real Housewives of Dallas, and the Co-Host of the "I Don't Give a Rip" podcast on YEA Networks. Links Mentioned: Hard Night Good Morning www.hardnightgoodmorning.com I Don't Give a Rip https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-dont-give-a-rip/id1458890246 Ultimate Living https://ultimateliving.com Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/dandrasimmons/ Instagram @dandrasimmons

Are you ready to master the basics of personal style? We are over to the moon to have Holly Chayes join the show – she is a personal stylist and a new part of our posse. First, we dive into the inspiration behind Holly's fashion career. Her favorite part of fashion is when everyone knows who you are just by looking at your personal style. Then, we jump into what it's like having a fashion business during the pandemic and how Holly has pivoted during these challenging times. Plus, she explains what you need to know when revamping your wardrobe. When cleaning out a closet, it ultimately comes down to whether or not her client wants to ditch their stress. Tune in as we chat about Holly's fashion courses, and she tells us what's next on her fashion journey! In This Episode: [02:30] All about Holly Chayes and her work as a personal stylist.  [05:00] How clothing is a lens that you can look through the rest of your life with. [08:20] Fashion during Covid: how Holly has changed her business plan during these challenging times.  [09:50] Holly reveals her most shocking fashion crime stories.  [17:55] Why a client who is open to being their truest and most authentic self is the best to work with.  [20:55] We are so lucky because Holly Chayes has style courses – she gives us the scoop.  [25:30] Look into Holly’s crystal ball: she reveals what’s coming up for her next on her fashion coach journey.  Key Takeaways: When you fix your style problems, you start fixing your life problems. Are you thinking about working with a style coach? The first step to fixing your wardrobe is awareness. To flatter your figure, dress in a way that feels good to your body. Are you worried about the environment? The most sustainable choice you can make when it comes to fashion is wearing something that's already in your closet. Bio:  Holly Chayes is a style coach & consultant helping you build and keep the wardrobe you want. She helps you keep what’s working, fix what’s broken, and align what’s out of wack. From the hundreds of conversations, she’s had about clothes and clothing she knows there’s no single perfect solution, but rather the perfect style solution for YOU. Links Mentioned: Get your free copy of Personal Style Fundamentals: 27 keys to building and keeping the wardrobe you want to unlock your personal style next steps https://www.whowearswho.com/ebook/ Listen to Talking About Clothes with Holly Chayes here https://www.whowearswho.com/podcast/ And when you’re ready to find YOUR perfect style solution, don’t hesitate to get in touch https://www.whowearswho.com/working-together/ Holly Chayes Website: https://www.hollychayes.com/

Nobody loves red carpet fashion more than we do! So, what's going to happen with the red carpet during the 2021 Grammys?! Well, we think it's going to be a sad year for fashion history. First, we explain what the "red carpet" actually means when it comes to the Grammys and other award shows like the SAG and the Oscars. Nolan reveals his favorite Grammy look of ALL time (hint: it's pretty legendary). Tune in as we dive into our favorite and our least favorite Grammy fashion choices, including stars like Billy Ray Cyrus, Lana Del Ray, Lady Gaga, and much more - enjoy!

We jump right into the hottest debate that is all over the internet right now: ARE SKINNY JEANS OVER? We both give our hot takes on which jeans we LOVE and which jeans we can live without. Don’t miss the latest news - Ella Emhoff and Amanda Gorman signed with IMG Models. You will recognize them from the US inauguration. Plus, we talk about how Alber Elbaz has created a whole new system of dressing. However, we deliberate whether or not Alber is really reinventing the way that the world is dressing. Lastly, Nolan has numerous updates – he's so busy that he feels like Queen B herself, Beyoncé. In This Episode: [03:00] We get fashion updates from Vanessa Friedman - the Chief Fashion Critic of the New York Times. Vanessa says that skinny jeans are over!!  [08:45] Ella Emhoff and Amanda Gorman sign with IMG Models – YAS!  [12:15] Alber Elbaz has created a whole new system of dressing… we’ll be the judge of that. [19:10] Nolan explains how he is cashing checks and snapping necks.    [22:30] What Nolan is wearing this week.  Key Takeaways: Skinny jeans are not out, and they never will go out.  Frame are the best jeans of all time; they’re expensive, but you can find them on Poshmark.  Alber Elbaz has a new brand; follow it blindly and trust Alber no matter what!  Modeling is much more diverse now than it has been in the past – we are lucky to have Ella Emhoff and Amanda Gorman sign with IMG Models.  Links Mentioned: Alber Elbaz for the AZ Factory https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/26/style/alber-elbaz-azfactory.html?campaign_id=40&emc=edit_tz_20210129&instance_id=26563&nl=open-thread&regi_id=80305386&segment_id=50648&te=1&user_id=f213c109dccf1a006f6c26470573862f Skinny Jeans forever or no? https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgxwLsJvLfHdCNNqkjgRjvFKVnVbd Lagence https://lagence.com/ Frame-Store https://frame-store.com/ I Don't Give a Rip Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-dont-give-a-rip/id1458890246 Quotes: “Are skinny jeans over? No! It's kind of like saying, are bell bottoms over?  They’re over, they’re back, they’re in, they’re out.” -Holly “Skinny jeans are my best friend; It's almost like when you are born with big boobs versus buying them. When you're born with it, you don't need to show it off. When you buy them, it's okay that people see them.” -Nolan

We are grateful to be joined by a podcasting legend, Jessica Kupferman. She is the co-host and co-founder of the She Podcasts brand. First, we dive right into Jessica's beef with online shopping. Her most significant fears when shopping are looking older, larger, and like wallpaper. However, we have some words for her! Just because someone is a specific size doesn't mean they can't be stylish. Plus, we dive into why it's critical to have work clothes that you feel great wearing. When you feel confident in your clothes, then you'll be more agreeable to everyone around you – it's a win-win! Tune in as Jessica gives loads of fashion crime confessions (dun dun dun). In This Episode: [03:10] All about Jessica Kupferman.  [07:00] Jessica reveals her beef with online shopping.   [09:45] When you feel better about your clothes, you're going to be nicer to everybody. It’s like your whole mood changes. [15:50] The plot thickens: Jessica has another fashion crime confession!   [20:15] Jessica thinks there is no good Spanx. However, we reveal a trick that she needs to attempt.  [26:40] Jessica is on the verge of dressing too old. We give outfit tips for plus-sized older women.  [36:30] It’s okay to buy costume jewelry. However, you have to learn how to mix costume and real.  [40:05] OMG – Jessica doesn’t even have a bag?! We explain why it’s critical to have a bag that you absolutely LOVE.  [50:40] Jessica says that we all need to stop worrying about her boobs. Plus, she’s excited about having her own style in the future!  Key Takeaways: There is fabulous fashion in any size. As long as you have a vision of what you want, then you can make it happen!  Buy two expensive pieces a year; it's worth it. If you buy a $600 blazer, you can pair it with a shirt that was $6 and still looks fabulous.   You deserve the right bra, the right underwear, and the right Spanx.  When shopping, think about these things: what will look good on me, what's going to be comfortable, and what looks appropriate.  Bio:  Jessica Kupferman is the co-host and co-founder of the She Podcasts brand, which currently supports over 14,000 female podcasters and has a digital marketing reach of over 55,000 content creators. Her sweet spot is helping podcasters set up systems for growth and training them on how to obtain sponsorship. She also is an internet “Bat Girl” with an odd amount of experience in way too many software services. When she’s not planning the next She Podcasts LIVE, you can find her offering education to independent podcasters on marketing, growth, and sponsorship.  Links Mentioned: She Podcasts Website  http://www.shepodcasts.com/ She Podcasts on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shepodcasts/ Jess on Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/jesskupferman/ Jess on Twitter  https://twitter.com/JessKupferman Torrid Website https://www.torrid.com Eloquii https://www.eloquii.com/ Asos https://www.asos.com/us/ Greivy Lou https://www.instagram.com/greivyglam/ Ashley Longshore https://www.ashleylongshore.com/ Quotes: “Style and weight have nothing to do with each other.” - Holly  “I'm just excited at the possibility of having my own style, which is stylish and not a mish-mash of nonsense.” - Jessica  There's fabulous fashion at any size. It doesn't matter as long as you have a vision of what you want. - Nolan