Issue No. 10

Welcome to The Flairhunter Edit, where I share all the flair on my radar each month. If you love what you see, forward the flair to a friend!

Jan 22, 2025

2025. A bright, shiny new year! Typically by now, nearing the end of January, my mighty list of well-intentioned resolutions is already largely forgotten. Let’s face it, with attending Paris design events this month, the last thing I’m thinking about is dry January or being gluten-free. So, instead, this year, I’ve jumped on the Word of the Year bandwagon. Choosing one word as an intention to foster for the next 365 days. But, since limits are something I inherently resist, I couldn’t narrow it down to just one word. I have five! Think - The Flair Five. Here they are, in no particular order (I turned them all into adjectives to make them more actionable): steadfast, capable, focused, flexible/adaptable, and listening. You can tune into my podcast to hear more about what led me to this list of words and how I’m applying them.

After I recorded that episode, one more word came to mind. Trust/Trusting. I started leaning into that word in 2024 and decided to carry it into 2025 as an umbrella over the current words since I’m not quite done with it yet! I want to trust my ability to focus on incorporating those other five traits into my being. I’ve taken to literally saying the word “trust” when I wake up and journaling about it when I have time to journal. (Okay, okay, let’s not talk about how many times I’ve actually journaled so far in 2025. Zero for zero.)

Now, before you jump to conclusions and interpret my intention to trust as implying I don’t believe people or I’m cynical, I want to clarify. I’m referring to trusting myself, trusting God’s or the universe’s plan for me and those I love, trusting and staying steadfast with the process. What I‘m really hoping, or intending, is that it will wash away the worry. Or, maybe, at least, chip away at it.

Instead of micromanaging all the details for the multiple projects I have staff members working on, waking up in the night and defaulting to thinking things have slipped or that they will fail, I want to revert to trusting that I’ve surrounded myself with capable people and that by actively listening we can effectively communicate our goals. I am capable (we are!) of doing all the hard things. Also, to trust that even if things go completely off the rails, I can stay flexible/adaptable to manage and access the solutions that always end up presenting themselves.

On a final note, one more trend I’m loving is the Ins and Outs list. They are all over social media. Let’s see if I can get around to drafting one of those by the time the next edition of the newsletter comes out! Or, perhaps I’ll just make that list short and sweet and share it now. In - Trust. Out - Worry.

Did you choose a word or an intention for the year?

Steph

Design Tip

To transform your bed into an inviting refuge perfect for chilly nights (and cozy days too!), we’re sharing some easy tips to achieve a luxe-looking bed, and a comfortable one. (Photo courtesy of Lulu and Georgia)

1. Layer the Basics - Start with soft, breathable sheets, like cashmere or flannel, for a cozy foundation. The high breathability helps cashmere bedding regulate your body temperature.

2. Add a Weighted Layer - A plush comforter, or duvet filled with down or a high-quality down alternative adds warmth and texture.

3. Embrace Textures - Texture is key to creating a luxe vibe. Add a chunky knit blanket or a quilt at the foot of the bed for extra warmth and visual interest. Look for materials like velvet, chenille, or soft wool blends.

4. Incorporate Faux Fur - Introduce a touch of luxury with faux fur accents, such as a throw blanket or decorative pillows. Faux fur adds warmth and an elegant, winter aesthetic to your bed.

5. Pile on the Pillows - Layer pillows in various sizes and textures to create depth and plushness. Use standard pillows for sleeping, then layer decorative shams and accent pillows in seasonal fabrics like velvet, fleece, or tweed.

6. Play with Winter Tones - Stick to a palette of rich, warm hues or soothing neutrals like cream, taupe, deep greens, and blues for a calming winter vibe.

7. A Bench for Function and Style - Place a bench at the foot of your bed. Choose one with plush seating, a faux fur cushion, or a wooden design for added texture. This versatile piece serves as a great spot for layering extra blankets adding to the overall comfort and style of your winter bedroom.

Home With Flair

Everything you need to curate the perfect winter bed to hibernate.

Shop the Look

1. Down Pillows / 2. Decorative Pillow / 3. Duvet Cover and Shams / 4. Plaid Euro Sham / 5. Faux Fur Throw / 6. Vintage Retro Throw Pillow / 7. Cashmere Sheets / 8. Duvet / 9. Bench / 10. Velvet Blanket

Travel: Flair in the Air

people walking between orange concrete buildings — Photo by Jezael Melgoza on Unsplash

LOCATION - San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is one of my favorite spots, anywhere. I've been 9 times(!), and our family spent Thanksgiving week there this past year. The kids were as enchanted as we've been with this colonial city cradled in the highlands. At a relatively high altitude, it’s about a 3.5 - 4.5 hour drive from Mexico City.

STAY

Rosewood - This hotel is absolutely lovely and deserves all of the accolades it receives. The service, the beautiful architecture and art, and the rooftop restaurant; all is fabulous.

Hotel Matilda - A small, funky boutique hotel with clever design elements and rotating art exhibits - it’s like Rosewood’s funky younger cousin. Their restaurant, Moxi, is one I always recommend.

Casa De Los Olivos - This boutique hotel in the heart of San Miguel de Allende has the perfect blend of traditional Mexican charm and modern luxury. The location can’t be beat.

EAT

photo courtesy of The Restaurant website

The Restaurant - Don’t let the name fool you. What may sound generic boasts some of the most interesting menu options anywhere in the city. Think, a riff on Mexican food and the best burger in town. And, a really fun bar after hours.

Don Taco Tequila - Best tacos! Great location! Perfect for a casual night out, this eatery is known for its creative fusion of gourmet tacos and an impressive selection of premium tequilas and mezcals.

Breakfast

Cafe Lavanda - One of our favorite spots. It moved, which was a bit confusing for us to find during our most recent visit. The building may be different (with slightly less charm), but the menu is still off the charts.

Ki’bok Coffee - Ki'bok Coffee has fabulous house-made pastries, fantastic coffee, and a rich experience.

Octagono - Natural wine bar and shop, also selling interesting textiles and small ceramics. This Mexican husband and Eastern European wife are so friendly and welcoming. And, the bar experience is like being invited into their private home! You feel like you made new friends by the time you leave.

SHOP

photo courtesy of Core website

Tao Studio - A chic boutique showcasing contemporary and handcrafted jewelry, accessories, and home decor. It's a destination for unique, artisan-made pieces that blend modern style with traditional craftsmanship.

Core - A beautifully curated Home Store, it’s the perfect place to find unique pieces to elevate and personalize your living space.

Casamidy - An incredible design showroom, by appointment only, Casamidy showcases handcrafted furniture and home decor that blends traditional Mexican artistry with modern design.

Mixta - As the name implies, it's a mix of textiles, fashion, jewelry, home products, and art made with soul, integrity, and love from designers and artisans of Mexico and other wonderful places.

DO

Photo courtesy of Fabrica la Aurora website

Fabrica la Aurora - An old textile factory turned artist studios, this creative enclave now houses canvases, sculptures, and handcrafted products from great artists who live in SMA.

El Manantial - You must grab drinks at this charmingly rustic spot that has the oldest bar in San Miguel!

Xotolar Ranch - Just outside of San Miguel Allende, you can spend the day taking a horse ride and a tour of the ranch, followed by an incredible lunch post-horse ride.

Wear Your Flair

On the slopes, it’s all about combining performance with flair. From sleek, modern gear to fun accessories, these pieces keep you warm, chic, and ready for any winter adventure. Whether carving through fresh powder or sipping hot chocolate, this edit has everything you need to dress for a winter escape. Shop the Look

1. Skis / 2. Puffer / 3.Goggles / 4. Beanie / 5. Sunnies / 6. Fanny Pack / 7. Base Layer Top + Black Option / 8. Tinted Lip Butter / 9. Ski Gloves / 10. Base Layer Bottoms / 11. Ski Pants / 12. Apres-ski Fingerless Gloves / 13. Ski Socks / 14. Moon Boots

Spotlight on Flair

Spotlight on Flair is a feature where we shine a light on inspiring innovators, change-makers, and creators from diverse backgrounds. Each month, we offer a personal glimpse into the minds of those who embody that undeniable flair factor and individuality with a few fun Q&As.

This month we’re turning the tables on The Flairhunter herself! Let’s get to know Steph a little bit more…

New Year's Eve: Stay in or go out? No brainer - stay in! Hahaha!
What’s a destination you're most excited to visit in 2025? Hamburg, because we are going there for the private aviation interiors annual trade show, and client projects.
Do you have a favorite hotel? Oh, this is a tough one. I’ll say ONE of them is the Four Seasons in Shanghai. Or the Soho House Holloway in West Hollywood. My work home, away from home, when I’m in LA.
Dream guest to have on The Cult of Flair Podcast? Kelly Wearstler. Go big or go home.
Favorite coat designer? Dries Van Noten! All around designer, but the coats…the colors, and the graphic patterns are like works of art.
What do you typically eat for breakfast? Two shots of espresso with equal parts steamed half and half. Which I typically lose somewhere in the house and rarely finish. I’m two-fisted, so you can also find me with an iced Topo Chico, adding an inch or two of fresh squeezed orange juice. I love breakfast foods, but not for breakfast.
Do you have a morning routine? I have to either physically walk somewhere, like a moving meditation, or walk and move around in my house if it’s dark outside and snowing. Meaning, I typically put away dishes from the dishwasher and straighten things. It’s become sort of a zen thing for me! And, I am also checking email, Slack, texts, and all social media channels from the second I’m awake - even though I know I shouldn’t be! But, I swear it soothes me, even if I am told it’s increasing stress. I know, I know, I’m working on it…
If you could teleport to any city right now, which would it be? Paris. Always. It’s the most familiar city to me outside of Los Angeles. So much nostalgia from my childhood, college years, and now for work reasons.
What’s your favorite Podcast to listen to - besides your own? Mel Robbins! She’s just so relatable with a solid, approachable voice, commentary, and stories, and her guests typically are too.
What’s one piece of advice you'd give your younger self? Stop worrying about fitting in and wondering whether people like you or are mad at you or not.
If you could have dinner with any five people, living or dead, who would they be? I call this my Flair Five Faves: my mom, The Olson Sisters (since they’re co-founders of The Row, I’m cheating and counting them as one!), Axel Vervoordt, Tom Ford, and last but definitely not least, Snoop Dogg!
Biggest lesson learned in 2024. One thing I started learning in 2024 that I am bringing into 2025 is...Trust. Over fear. With so much uncertainty during brand expansion plans, I had to choose to stop trying to control everything. I had to begin to trust so I could scale the business. When I wake up at 3 AM with 300 questions and a Think Attack (trademarking that, haha!) about project status updates and so much minutia, I have to exhale and trust the amazing people I've been able to put into place. Still a work in progress this year!

Flair for Wellness

What I’m loving this month…

Do you have crazy dry skin? Then let me introduce you to your new favorite face mask- The Face Cream Mask by Augustinus Bader. Whether you use this as a quick pick-me-up or leave it on overnight for a serious session, it’s like a spa treatment in a tub. It’s perfect for those winter days when your skin needs a little extra love!

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Culture & Media

There’s a good reason why everyone from Oprah to Maria Shriver is talking about this book - The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About. It doesn’t matter if you read or listen; it will be life-changing and definitely a way of thinking that you need to start implementing immediately!

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To kick off the new year, I'm also sharing a second thing on my radar in the Culture and Media category.

Music Box: Yacht Rock: A DOCKumentary is an absolute must-watch! My whole family loved it. It dives into the feel-good world of yacht rock, celebrating the artists, iconic hits, and the laid-back, nostalgic vibe. It’s fun, quirky, and full of flair!

My Flair Mix

In keeping with the theme of this winter issue, I’ve created the perfect high-energy playlist designed for a day on the slopes. Pop this in your ears to help you conquer any mountain.

Listen

The Cult of Flair Podcast

Join me for insightful conversations with creators as we explore the diverse paths to fearless individuality, the meaning of personal style, and finding your flair at any age. Alongside my in-depth interview series, you’ll also find snackable, short episodes. I call these my Flair On The Fly, where I’ll be serving up tips, musings, or insightful nuggets designed to expand your knowledge and share the flair.

My latest episode talks about the five words I chose to shape my 2025.

Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcast fix, so you don’t miss an episode!