Style Chat with Elizabeth Tat

The coronavirus affected our country in such a major way, it literally changed life as we knew it overnight. To some the changes have been completely overwhelming and how do you blame them. I can say, I love some me time, but this me time is turning into I’m about to throw myself into a wall time. Jk.  But through all of the craziness going on, the one thing that was able to get me through it was some good TV! Over the years, I had the pleasure of getting to know and working with an incredible actress, Elizabeth Tate.  Elizabeth has appeared in shows like Law & Order SVU, HBO’s hit TV show Succession and Showtime’s hit TV shows Billions and The Loudest Voice. Despite the many characters played over the years, her true personality is unmatched. Her laid-back persona and love for fashion created an instant connection between us. Whenever Liz and I got together it is always a great time. I remember buying an Alexandra Vauthier dress to do an impromptu photo shoot simply because I loved the dress. There was no fancy lighting, or crazy stage set up.  It was just us and a camera. That was probably the most fun I’ve had on a shoot in such a long time.  I laughed so hard watching her dance through almost every frame.  

I was able to virtually catch up with Liz to chat about acting, boys, and life on quarantine.

When did you first know you wanted to be an actress?

“I fell in love with acting in the 3rd grade, I was in my first school play, haha. I started taking classes in middle school and still work with a coach now. I don’t think I’ll ever stop wanting to learn and explore which is something I also love about my job.” 

RW: She also shared with me how much fun it is to get into character, and transition yourself into a different person even if it’s just for a little while. 

What’s one role you would love to play?, and who would be the male lead?

“My dream would be to play a role from a different era, or totally transform myself like Charlize Theron in Monster. 

-Working with Robert De Niro of course, I’m a big Scorsese fan. Hugh Jackman and Mark Ruffalo also just seem to love what they do and, they are are down to earth. That humble passion would be something I’d be thrilled to work with and get to know.”

RW: I couldn’t agree more with  Liz, I mean who would turn down a role with Hugh Jackman.. 

The COVID-19 pandemic hit all of us in such a major way, how are you coping with this new life in quarantine?

“Quarantine has given me a lot of time to myself in a way I don’t think I’ve had before. I’m grateful to have my health and wonderful friends and family, so it’s been a focus of mine to stay positive and make the most of this time. I’ve been trying to do something creative every day. I’ve been cooking a lot which I love to do and finally writing and developing a new series of my own.”

I’m so blessed to be able to call someone so amazing and talented my friend. I am so excited to watch her career grow into something so phenomenal. Be sure to check her out on Law & Order SVU, and one of my favorite TV shows, Billions. 

Style Chat with Owen Gould

When I think of a strong work ethic and a creative mind, several people come to mind. Owen Gould is definitely one of them! To some, he’s known as the guy who’s brought Hollywood glam back to the world of hair, but to me, he’s one of the coolest and most humble guys I’ve met in years. His unique and forward-thinking hairstyles have created a lane of its own. Owen consistently shows the world how hard work and a strong passion for what you do makes for a successful and powerful influencer. As I flip through magazines or scroll through Instagram lusting over his innovative creations for people like Bella and Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Karrueche, and Anna Faris, it motivates me to work even harder. I get so excited just wondering what groundbreaking design he will come up with next, knowing that he will push the limit and create something monumental — making him one of the most sought after stylists. 

Read what I learned about the remarkable man in my StyleChat with Owen Gould.

1. What is it like in the hair/beauty business and what inspired you to get started? 

Pouring over magazines as a kid and admiring all that I saw is probably what inspired me to pursue a career in fashion. Being in the hair industry is an exciting and extremely creative business to be a part of; it’s collaborative and can be chaotic at times, but that's what I love so much about it. You’re constantly working with other talented artists to create an amazing image or look – that's why you really need to be a team player to go far in this industry. Working together is so important when trying to create something that everyone will remember. Not everyone is going to love your ideas or see your vision, but the end result is so gratifying.

2. How have things changed from when you started until now? 

The biggest change I’ve seen is the rise of social media. It’s pretty much changed the game on all levels. The thing I like about it is the ability to share some of the process with people that follow me, and also some behind the scenes clips with people I've had the opportunity to meet on set. It’s also become a portfolio for your work; I’ve gotten booked for several jobs because of a photo I posted on Instagram. Ten years ago, that wasn’t happening. 

3. Who are some of your biggest influencers?

I’ve always loved the old school masters of hair. Oribe, Luigi, Serge Normant. The glamour of the 90’s supermodels has always remained a huge inspiration for me as well. All those old Versace ads with the big hair. I’ll never get tired of looking at those! 

4. What has your proudest moment been thus far?

Getting to work with Björk was a really proud moment for me! I remember getting an email from her stylist asking if I’d be interested in working with her. I was like, “This must be a mistake”. My sister turned me on to her music when I was a kid, and I was so in love with those little buns she used to wear all over her head! It was such an amazing experience! 

5. Where do you see yourself and your brand in the next few years? 

It’s hard to say with certainty but I would love to collaborate on a product line or hair accessories of some sort, and create something that everyone would want to use everyday. 

I also recently put out a book called MACHO with a photographer friend of mine. It’s a collection of men’s hairstyles that I’m really proud of and I would love to continue to do more projects like that.  

6. What tips would you to provide to someone for an easy day-to-night glam? 

I’m a huge fan of dry shampoo. If your hair is dirty or you’ve just woken up, I love to spray the hair liberally and pin it up in small messy sections. It’s a great way to get that sexy bedhead look from the boardroom to the dance floor. It even looks great when you take it all out at the end of the night. 

To get styled by the master of hair, email Owen Gould: OwenGould23@gmail.com 

Style Chat with Mimi Kamara

Spring is in the air, and I had the pleasure to watch this incredible artist transform an amazing model into this editorial trend-setter! Philadelphia native Mimi Kamara is a makeup extraordinaire that came to New York with one goal: TO WIN, and that is what she did. Mimi took the city by storm with her extensive list of celebrity clientele. She also blessed us with the most cutting edge editorial looks for major fashion magazines like Vogue, Essence, Raine, and Lucy's, just to name a few. We've also seen Mimi’s work walk the runway as she's painted faces for top designers like Balmain, Edun, Billy Reid,Publuc School, and Tommy Hilfiger for NYFW. One thing I was so impressed by while doing this interview was not just her humble and poised persona, but the attention she pays to details in all aspects in her business.

It was mind blowing. From the styling to the overall feel of the atmosphere, Mimi makes it her point to create an environment that is not only fun for her staff members, but for all involved. From making jokes as security chases us away while trying to get the perfect shot, or simply getting coffee for everyone as a simple thank you, Mimi is the epitome of a true influencer and fashion mogul.  Mimi and I spoke about the huge social media phenomenon and how it has shaped the lives of so many people, both for the good and the bad. However, Mimi believes that this new world of marketing is an amazing tool to inspire others, network, and stay connected with people in all aspects of the world of fashion and pop culture. As I’ve observed her work for many years, I felt the need to share with you more about the person behind this cultivating talent.

1. What inspired you to become a makeup artist? What did you do to stand out from the others?

I’ve always been fulfilled by getting to know people and healing people. I went to Temple University for psychology, and close to graduating I realized “I don’t want to do this the rest of my life..”. I LOVED healing people, but was super fascinated by fashion & beauty!

2 things I did (and still do) to stand out:

1. Outwork anyone. This means going the extra mile when no one asks you to. Having a straw in my kit, just in case the client wants water after her lip are done. Or giving a mini facial massage before I start makeup. If I’m on set, I keep an eye out for more than just “my job”. So if her bra strap is showing, I call it out before the camera starts rolling!

2. Be Humble. I was never ever afraid to ask for help. Or recognize when someone knew more than me. In those moments, I asked if I could assist. And took the job just as seriously as if it were my own project. The ego keeps many from excelling, because they’re too proud to assist. Not knowing, one day with someone stronger than you, can save you 10 years!

2. How would you describe your preferred style of work (i.e. dramatic, natural, etc.)?

I would describe my preferred style of work is similar to my fashion aesthetic. “Rich”! This doesn’t mean having a lot of money, but it means tasteful. Someone can be a millionaire but look cheap. Someone can be homeless and look rich. For me, it’s beautiful skin no matter what. This has meant me telling potential clients or even close friends “I’m not the Artist for you”. When there are too many layers or products, things start to look cheap. It may not be popular to some, but I am true to me first and always. 

3. Of all the products you use, what are 3 you absolutely cannot live without?

I absolutely cannot live without:

1. Concealer! It can be your foundation, eyeshadow, and lip in a pinch or if you like!

2. Moisturizer- many underestimate the power of properly prepping your skin. Not prepping properly is like having an amazing meal with no fork, knives, or spoon, LOL!

3. Eyeliner- I can manipulate it into other things. Like lipstick. Or eyeshadow. 

4. What’s one piece of advice you’d like to provide for aspiring MUAs who are looking to make their mark?

There’s less traffic in your own lane! This means do your absolute best where you are, and don’t compare or watch what others are doing. 

Social media is great to be inspired, but someone else’s journey is not your own. 

You may miss an awesome opportunity because you feel you have to do Makeup just like someone else. Or follow the same path they did. And it kills your creative spirit!

5. What about people who are not so great with makeup but want to learn...what tips do you have?

Learn the rules, so you can better break them! It’s like cooking. Once you learn the basics, you start to remix it into your own style. I always recommend taking a one on one lesson. This way you learn, make mistakes, and master your face; without the pressure of others watching.