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Fara Homidi

Courtesy of Fara Homidi

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FARA HOMIDI

The founder, CEO and makeup artist shares her favorite hotel, bag and bookstore.

Fara Homidi is reimagining the future of minimalist beauty. The New York-based makeup artist has garnered global acclaim for her flawless technique, seen across the pages of Self Service, Re-edition and Pop Magazine and on the runways of Hermès, Chloé and Coperni. Born in Afghanistan and raised in California, Homidi moved to New York in the early 2000s to pursue a career as a makeup artist. She soon carved out her signature minimalist aesthetic: refined complexions balanced by unexpected pops of color with a keen eye for texture. In 2023, Homidi introduced her eponymous line—an essentialist edit of best-in-class cosmetics—worn by super models, creatives and industry. Her no-nonsense collection marries inclusivity with high-performance formulas and thoughtful design—fewer, better products that transcend trends. Celebrated for her raw sophistication and ability to capture the zeitgeist, Homidi’s recommendations are ones we trust.

A BAG SUITABLE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Phoebe Philo has long stood out in fashion for her ability to create pieces for women who crave intelligent design. Phoebe Philo’s eponymous label, launched in 2023, exemplifies her signature flair: an effortless intersection of elegance, practicality and wit. Known for understanding the duality modern women crave—sexy yet comfortable, striking but never overdone—Philo’s approach has garnered a fiercely loyal following. Among her designs is the black Gig Bag, a piece that is sleek, practical, and undeniably cool. Crafted in Italy from supple calf leather with a tonal suede lining, it’s roomy enough for everyday essentials, yet sleek enough for evening. The top-zip closure, silver-tone hardware, and adjustable two-length shoulder strap nod to its functional spirit, while the subtle blind embossing quietly underscores Philo’s commitment to understated luxury.

 “This bag is so UNDERSTATED. It’s not so recognizable, but it still looks very chic with any outfit. The Gig bag holds so much and I also love the separate compartments for my makeup, wallet and miscellaneous contents!”

“Hands down my favorite hotel of all time. It feels understated and yet the most ELEVATED place I’ve ever been to, like a secret Bond hide out.”

A CLIFFSIDE ESCAPE FOR THE MODERN TRAVELER

Il San Pietro di Positano is the brainchild of Carlino Cinque, who carved a villa into the cliffside in the 1970s and slowly expanded it into a luxurious retreat. Tucked away on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, the property’s 56 rooms all boast private terraces, stunning views, and interiors that blend old-world Italian charm with contemporary touches. What makes the hotel truly stand out is that even with star-studded clientele and impeccable service, it remains intimate, inviting, and delivers retro glamor—yet still feels modern. The hotel’s iconic tennis court is perched on the cliffside and overlooks the ocean, while an elevator built into the rocks takes guests down to a private beach and the hotel’s casual Carlino restaurant. Zass—the hotel's second restaurant—offers a Michelin-starred dining experience, fueled by produce from the hotel’s gardens. A retreat for the discerning, Il San Pietro captures the essence of relaxation, privacy, and elegance.

BEAUTY FOR WOMEN ON THE GO 

Fara Homidi’s beauty line brings a fresh point of view—clean formulas, refined and refillable packaging, and an ethos of “less but better.” She’s setting a new standard for thoughtful, design-forward beauty, approaching cosmetics like timeless objects rather than disposable trends. One of the founder’s favorite products, the Essential Face Compact, perfectly embodies the brand’s philosophy. Both modern and luxurious, the compact delivers one part velvety Soft Veil Cream for a gentle matte finish, another part Shine Baume for a touch of glow. Made in Italy, the formulas showcase standout ingredients like cupuaçu butter for hydration and kaolin clay for a smoothing effect. Even the packaging delivers on thoughtfulness: a sleek, bright red, refillable hand-polished case. The kind of product that’s as chic to hold as it is beneficial to wear.

“This is my deserted island must-have. If there is one thing that means the most to me in terms of beauty, it’s skin. This gives you the perfect customizable coverage and glow all in one place.”

“This is the SOFTEST most perfect throw-over-everything long coat. It has pockets and no buttons—just the most clean lines and yummy feels.”

THIS BRAND IS WITTY, REFINED, AND UNDENIABLY WEARABLE

Though AFLALO only launched last September, the New York-based brand has already made a mark with its distinct approach to modern luxury. Founded by Yael Aflalo—the brains behind sustainable fashion brand Reformation—and Ludvig Frössén, the brand blends craftsmanship with the world's finest materials delivering an edited mix of everyday staples and simple-yet-sexy evening pieces. Think double-breasted jackets cut in wool-silk twill, classic merino knitwear, and see-through shirts and skirts. In a market saturated with collections made just for the camera, AFLALO stands out by delivering clothes you’ll actually wear. With Aflalo’s deep understanding of how to build a global brand that resonates with women, it’s no surprise this new venture checks so many boxes. Yes, it’s positioned as a luxury label, but it still feels approachable and witty. We’re curious to see more.

IN NEW YORK, A HAVEN FOR THE AVID READER 

McNally Jackson Books is more than just a bookstore—it's a cultural hub in the heart of New York City. Against all odds, the chain thrives in an era when many indie shops vanish. Since its founding by Sarah McNally in 2004, the independent chain has expanded to five locations, each with its unique atmosphere, offering a sanctuary for book lovers. Known for its thoughtfully curated selection of fiction and non-fiction, McNally Jackson isn’t afraid to champion the simple, unspoken art of browsing. The flagship store includes a publishing arm, McNally Editions, dedicated to uncovering ousted classics, as well as an Espresso Book Machine, creating on-demand prints. It’s a place for discovery—crafted by a team that understands the true power of the written word.

“McNally Jackson’s in SoHo is one of the NICHE book stores that have made it through The Internet era and I love supporting them. I usually go there to grab books for my winter or summer holiday, so going there always gives me a good feeling because I know I’ll be traveling soon!”