Issue No. 8
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!
The holidays are coming, people! It's a time of year as beautiful as it is complex, just like family relationships and the Thanksgiving dinner we may already be planning. We want to, I mean, we're supposed to want to, be with our loved ones, yet many of us also feel a familiar tension that comes with gathering everyone under one roof for a while. What’s up with that?!
I’m referring to our extended families, but this can even apply to our immediate families—grown kids coming home, siblings reunited. No matter how much we love them, it can be a lot of work (like preparing the whole dinner!), with emotions running as hot as the oven. Somehow, we find ourselves and others slipping back into old family dynamics or birth-order roles. And then there’s that underlying pressure for everything to be just right—the turkey, the timing, the table setting, the people, the relationships.
Confession: I’ve spent many holidays eagerly anticipating family gatherings, mixed with worrying about what might be said (umm, hello, alcohol!), only to find myself sad once everyone leaves—or disappointed if we can’t be together. Add in the ache of missing loved ones who are no longer with us, and I'm starting to wonder if the holiday dinner, with its many different dishes, is one big metaphor for our families. We can't control them, so we project that onto controlling the dinner...until, true story, that beautiful (looking) turkey turns out to be frozen in the middle when we go to carve it!
So, here's a thought. What if the holiday dinner isn't about achieving perfection but, rather, appreciating how each dish, with its complexities, reflects unique and dynamic flavors just like the personalities of the family gathered around it? What if we let go of the pressure to make the meal, the visit, or the people perfect and instead value each for what it is?
My favorite Thanksgiving ever was entirely unexpected and the least planned or fancy. It was during the height of the pandemic when expectations were low, the focus less on perfection or family dynamics, and the need to control it all. We were in Montecito, grateful for whoever could be with us. We played loud disco music, pulled out our old trunk of wigs, dressed in slippers and cozy sweats. Everyone wore the wig that spoke to them and embraced the here and now. We sang, we danced, we ate weird things cobbled together. And we enjoyed one another, cobbled together.
This Thanksgiving will be different and equally untraditional - Mexico! Tacos for dinner! I plan to conjure up the feelings and actions of what we all loved so much about that pandemic year. It wasn’t about the food, the pressure, the perfection. It was about showing up and embracing whatever came our way.
Thanksgiving may be just one day, but I’d like it to be one to remember—an unfiltered snapshot of my family, full of gratitude and acceptance for each person around the table, remembering those who aren’t with us, embracing those who are, and appreciating the new memories we’re creating with each passing holiday.
Steph
Design Tip
Here's a festive design tip for the holidays or anytime. An iced-booze bottle is an easy, eye-catching centerpiece that’s both functional and decorative. A stunning, one-of-a-kind display, perfect for adding a touch of flair to your gathering!
Start with a bottle of vodka (or another spirit that won't freeze) and a quart-size milk carton. Cut the top off the carton, empty and wash it thoroughly. Insert the vodka bottle, then add your choice of seasonal accents around the sides—this time of year, I like to add cranberries, fall leaves, or fresh flowers. Pour distilled water (it freezes clear) over the bottle, filling the carton to cover your decorations. Freeze overnight, then peel the carton away, and, voila! You have a stunning seasonal ice sculpture around your bottle.
HOME WITH FLAIR
Dedicated to sharing curated home finds that bring style and flair to your space. Each month, we’re showcasing a fresh selection of pieces that add a touch of character, comfort, or personality - from cozy decor to must-have gadgets that will make life at home even better. With the holidays a blink away, consider adding these pieces to your wishlist, or shop the links below to make an early dent in your gifting list!
Travel: Flair in the Air
Lima and Cusco, Peru
Recently my husband and I got back from an unforgettable adventure in Peru, where we explored the bustling streets of Lima, the vibrant culture of Cusco, and, of course, the breathtaking wonder of Machu Picchu. Along the way, we discovered new favorite spots (and our new-found love for Pisco Sours!). Here are a few highlights to get you excited to book your Peruvian getaway—or to add to your travel wish list!
Where to Stay
Miraflores Park - The Belmond Hotel in Miraflores is a total gem! The hotel is perfectly located, with top-notch service, ocean views from the roof, and amazing food. The Miraflores area is packed with stunning cliffsides, trendy shops, and cozy cafes—a perfect mix of city buzz and coastal chill.
Sanctuary Lodge - This is the top spot for staying near Machu Picchu—literally! It’s the only hotel right at the entrance, so you’re just steps away, while everyone else has to take a bus up the mountain.
Monasterio - Cusco, one of the oldest cities in the southern hemisphere (and all of South America!), sits high at 11,000 feet—and Hotel Monasterio is a must while you’re there. This place is an experience all on its own!
Where to Eat
Did you know some of the top 10 restaurants in the world are based in Lima, Peru? It was worth the pilgrimage, scheduling our trip around reservation availability. Can you say, Food Flair?!
Central Restaurante - Ranked Number One in the World in 2023, this incredible restaurant, owned by Virgilio Martinez, is adjacent to his wife’s restaurant, Kjolle. The tasting menus and wine pairings were an experience I will never forget. But, let's face it. It was the contemporary, organic architectural elements that had me awe-struck.
Kjolle - Sister to Central, this modern and innovative restaurant in Lima led by renowned chef Pía León, is located in the Barranco district. It offers a creative, seasonal menu. It's a must-visit for food lovers looking for a unique, high-end dining experience.
Maido - Surprisingly, to me, Lima is also known for its sushi and Asian food. Maido is a world-renowned restaurant in Lima, known for its fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors and ranked among the best in the world. A top destination for food lovers seeking a high-end, sensory experience.
Where to Shop
Shopping in Peru, especially in Lima, offers a fantastic mix of traditional crafts and modern luxury. Whether hunting for artisan souvenirs or luxury goods, you'll enjoy a diverse shopping experience that blends the old with the new - which is a true definition of flair!
Solalpaca - It’s all about the finest alpaca wool! Baby Alpaca is known for being incredibly soft and luxurious, and Sol Alpaca celebrates this beautifully. Their collections blend the essence of the Andes with modern fashion, creating a sophisticated, one-of-a-kind style. Their designs are like wearable pieces of art!
Ayni - Luxury women’s clothing by Peruvian and other South American designers. I learned so much and found beautiful inspiration, in addition to actual items that came home with me.
ESCVDO - ESCVDO is a sustainable luxury brand that brings contemporary design to life through dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and exceptional quality. The brand’s journey began with an exploration across Peru, uncovering the country’s rich textile heritage, traditional artistry, and profound connection to the natural world. Each piece merges timeless techniques with a modern aesthetic, celebrating Peru’s cultural legacy in a fresh, luxurious way.
Dedalo - Opened over 30 years ago, this was Lima’s first conceptual store for craftsmanship and contemporary design, and it remains a flair-filled hub for creativity. More than a gallery, Dédalo showcases a curated mix of Peruvian art, fashion, accessories, jewelry, and recycled furniture, transforming its spaces into living canvases.
Barranco - This section of Lima is known as the Bohemian region. It has gorgeous shops, and cafes along with galleries and public art. A fabulous area to wander and explore.
What to Do
Peru offers an unforgettable mix of natural wonders, ancient history, and vibrant culture. Start with the breathtaking Machu Picchu, hike the scenic Inca Trail, or explore the Sacred Valley’s historic ruins and villages. In Lima, experience the world-renowned food scene and wander through the coastal Miraflores district. And, don’t miss Cusco’s colonial charm. From the Andes to the rainforest, Peru is packed with adventures for every traveler.
MALI - Peru's premier art museum showcases a vast collection of Peruvian art. Located in Lima’s historic Palacio de la Exposición, MALI features pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial masterpieces, and modern art, offering a journey through Peru’s rich artistic heritage in an elegant setting.
Huayna Picchu - Part of Macchu Picchu, and a great, albeit challenging, high-altitude hike. Locals refer to the zillion stone steps you need to climb as the stairs of death. But I promise, you won’t die!
Sacred Valley - This is in another beautiful part of Peru. It’s filled with Incan ruins, rich history, and lively Andean villages between Cusco and Machu Picchu. The valley combines stunning mountain views with rich cultural heritage, traditional markets, and authentic local crafts.
Andean Explorer Train - A fancy train, like the Orient Express, we took this to ascend to Machu Picchu. It’s well worth the expense to experience train travel in this way. The train interior, the fine dining, and the bar cart, with live music in the back, all add to the experience and the views.
Inca Trail - Another hike option for those fit, and intrepid enough to trek through the wilderness with guides. This is a great way to experience so much of the culture. It’s an unforgettable journey through high mountains, jungles, and incredible history.
Choco Museo - Consider visiting a chocolate museum in Cusco or Lima to taste Peru’s rich cacao heritage while learning how chocolate is crafted from bean to bar.
Maras Salt Mines - A stunning network of terraced salt pools nestled in Peru's Sacred Valley. Dating back to the Inca era, these thousands of small, shallow pools are fed by a natural, mineral-rich spring. As the water evaporates, the salt crystallizes, creating a jaw-dropping patchwork of white and pink hues across the mountainside.
Bosque El Olivar - Known as the olive forest, this beautiful 24-acre park is in the San Isidro district of Lima. It’s filled with ancient olive trees, some dating back to the 17th century, with peaceful walking paths, ponds, and beautiful green spaces.
Wear Your Flair
Here's a chic autumn look perfect for celebrating Thanksgiving Day, whether attending a home gathering or dinner out. Pair a versatile dress with an elevated cozy cardigan for warmth, and complete the look with classic heels and a statement clutch. Now you're ready for all the holiday fun!
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’s Spotlight on Flair is shining on Sara Bacon, a.k.a. Glitter! Glitter is the founder of Opulist, a unique search platform sharing design-forward restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and hotels for travelers seeking style and aesthetics in every destination.
What’s the most surprising spot you’ve found with the ultimate aesthetic vibe?
The number of beautiful restaurants, bars, and hotels in Austin, TX surprised me, honestly! I especially loved the design of Pecan Square Cafe and the fact that it wasn't on my radar before my visit. We just happened to walk in and take a peek.
Detroit is also an incredibly cool, vibey city that I explored for the first time this year.
And, I have to add the city of Tucson, AZ because, for a place whose reputation had not always been positive in my experience, I was utterly delighted to be proven wrong by all the charm and history I found there.
2. If you could teleport to any city right now which would it be?
There's probably a 10-way tie for this answer judging from the trip wish list app on my phone, but if I had to choose this moment, I'd say Miami. Specifically, the Miami Beach EDITION. I want balmy breezes, a warm ocean to swim in, and wild, colorful clubs to dance in late at night.
3. Favorite color palette for a perfect café vibe?
This time of year, I'm obsessed with the vibes and color palette of a place like Bar Stella in Silver Lake. Rich jewel tones and a dark moody bar mixed with a cozy patio would be my ideal place to work from in the late afternoon and then meet up with friends joining me for drinks as we transition to evening.
4. Describe your dream location in three words.
Sumptuous, luxurious, whimsical.
5. What’s your favorite show to binge-watch or podcast to listen to?
Current binge show is Rivals. My forever binge show is The Office. And, if I wanted to giggle all day long I'd binge two podcasts, "Ride” and Heather McMahan's "Absolutely Not."
6. What’s a piece of advice you’d give your younger self?
Pay attention to the things you love and the little voice inside of you. You can trust they will lead you where you're meant to be.
7. If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would they be?
Heather McMahan, Steve Carrell, Jeff Goldblum
8. What’s one item you always have with you, no matter where you go?
Lately, it's been my extra large heavenly blanket from Lola. I carry it from room to room and have even taken it on multiple trips. If I could have it draped around me 24/7, without looking incredibly unstable in public, I absolutely would. Emotional Support Object to the max.
9. What’s a morning ritual or routine you swear by?
Don’t check my phone in bed, wake up to a clean house, and enjoy peaceful "me time" before doing anything else. I don't do this every day, but when I do, it's delightful.
10. If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would your dream job be?
Honestly this - but times 10! I want an office, a team, and a calendar full of sparkly, exciting trips all because Opulist turned into an international brand that people can't get enough of. That's my current dream job - future me, running Opulist.
Flair for Wellness
What I’m loving this month…this hangover prevention supplement, just in time for the holiday season.
DHM Detox Recovery Blend - 'Tis the season, and no one wants a wasted day spent feeling bad after a night out celebrating the holidays. Full transparency. I haven’t tried this yet, but it’s in my Amazon cart. Directions say to take this during your evening out or right before bed, and you’ll wake up ready to seize the day. I’ll be reporting back, or if you beat me to it, comment and let me know if it works!
Culture & Media
Binge-Worthy TV
Disclaimer is a dark, suspenseful thriller that follows Catherine, a journalist whose life takes a terrifying turn when she finds a novel that somehow reveals a long-buried, traumatic secret from her past. The story unravels with twists and turns, keeping you guessing.
My Flair Mix
This Thanksgiving playlist is the perfect mix of tracks that will set the perfect vibe for holiday gatherings.
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.
Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcast fix, so you don’t miss an episode!
Five O’Clock Flair
Effortless Cranberry Vodka Spritz
This simple yet festive cranberry cocktail combines tart cranberry juice with a hint of citrus, a touch of sweetness, and sparkling bubbles. It’s quick to whip up—perfect for holiday gatherings. Remove the vodka and you have yourself a festive mocktail!
Ingredients:
2 oz vodka
3 oz 100% cranberry juice (no added sugar)
1 oz orange juice
1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
2 oz club soda or sparkling water
Fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, cranberry juice, orange juice, and simple syrup.
Shake well until chilled.
Strain into a glass with ice, then top with club soda or sparkling water.
Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
Cheers!
♥️!