Living in a big city — namely New York — is all about balancing pros and cons. For example, pro: you live in New York City, con: you forgot what a tree looks like. In other words, it’s an amazing place to live if you have some sort of escape every now and then. New York City is conveniently located near beaches, mountains, vineyards, and hiking trails, but often the process of planning a trip is too daunting to a car-less New Yorker.

And then along came Jauntsetter, the brainchild of travel expert Dorothy McGivney who found  the internet was lacking a travel site that really spoke to her. After studying abroad in Australia as a junior in college, Dorothy became hooked on traveling, moved to New York, and sought after fellow city goers who were as passionate as she to find the next perfect weekend escape. Jauntsetter is a collection of travel insights collected from friends, trusted voyagers, and Dorothy herself. Although many of the recommended destinations are specific to New York, Jauntsetter also features hotel suggestions for places such as Istanbul and Paris. So for all those out there with summer wanderlust, search no more and jaunt!

Education: University of Michigan, English Language and Literature.

Brief Overview of Jauntsetter: Jauntsetter publishes travel inspiration guides and local recommendations to almost 20,000 subscribers throughout the New York area — we help locals escape the city!

Before this job: Worked for six years at Google, where I played a variety of roles. Mainly though, I started and scaled its ad optimization team in New York, which focused on a combination of analytics and copywriting. I also helped create business operations for the premium advertising department and worked with product and engineering teams to automate much of the manual work that was being done by our client services team.

What sparked the initial idea to create Jauntsetter: I’ve always enjoyed traveling but haven’t found much content, online or off, that spoke to me as a traveler. Put simply, I wanted to build something my friends and I would use.

Have you always been interested in travel: It’s funny, even though I didn’t travel much outside of the States as a kid, I was always interested in seeing the rest of the world (and was even President of my high school’s International Club). I went to college for anthropology (though ended up as an English major) and during my junior year of studying abroad in Australia, fell in love with traveling.

After the initial idea, what were the next steps in making Jauntsetter a reality: I asked my good friend Ann Talley to create a logo for Jauntsetter, which to this day remains one of my favorite thing about the brand. The logo is hand illustrated and has an organic but understated feel; there’s something about it that just does a very good job of telegraphing so much of what Jauntsetter is all about. Ann also created a bunch of other hand-drawn illustrations for the site — trains, planes, a suitcase — that made it easy to work with a design firm to build a site once I’d come up with a few simple wireframes. After the site was created, I set off to interview as many interestingly New York travelers as I could to help inform the original content that lived on the site when it first launched.

Your personal style in a few words: High/low, easy.

Style icon: My sister, Sarah. She works at J. Crew in marketing and looks like it; she has simply effortless style. I’ve bought so many key pieces in my wardrobe because of her!

Staple travel look: A Zara tuxedo blazer with J Brand black skinny jeans and a comfortable t-shirt. Ideally, my hair is in as slick an updo as I can manage.

Must-have pieces in my suitcase: My black Frye Mid-Ankle boots. Not too high. Go with almost everything, and can be resoled at any time by Frye within the first two years you buy them — they come with a warranty!

I never leave home without: Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage. It’s a compact that has two shades of concealer (get it matched at the counter to your skin) that seriously fixes every blemish, bit of redness, or under-eye fine lines. It instantly brightens my skin before a meeting!

A day running Jauntsetter looks like: It’s different every day. I’m constantly prioritizing, and one of my favorite tools to keep me on track on a daily basis is NowDoThis.com. It’s super simple and keeps you focused on one thing at a time; no small feat in this day and age of multitasking.

How do you pick the places Jauntsetter features? Do you travel to all these locations first: If I haven’t traveled there, a friend or one of the many trusted travelers I’ve interviewed for the site has. For example, I featured three hotels in Istanbul, and though I’ve never stayed at any of them, a Jauntsetter of the Week (the featured traveler I’ve interviewed for the week) has and highly recommends each one. The reason I’m able to keep ahead of the trends is because I’m essentially curating personal recommendations of travelers who are recommended to be interviewed to me by some of the most interesting people I know.

What do you look for in a travel story that makes it useful and buzzworthy: Back in 2008, I was writing about Tulum as the place to be. While it’s still beautiful and somewhere I recommend visiting if you haven’t been, in 2011, we were featuring Merida as the new Tulum. This year T Magazine started covering Merida, so I’m looking for the next Merida. By which I mean a place that feels relatively undiscovered, has copious amounts of authenticity and character, and is completely worth the plane trip (or car ride, or whatever) it took to get you there.

Favorite part of your job: Hearing from a reader that they learned about a destination from Jauntsetter and had an amazing time. Americans get so little vacation time that I see going somewhere new as a huge risk, actually. If you only get one real holiday a year, what if you go somewhere and it’s awful? That’s terrible. Knowing I helped someone avoid that is the best feeling.

Desk/office decor: Minimal. I like a distraction-free zone.

Morning routine: Walk in to my one-year-old’s son’s nursery and feel like I’m getting a standing ovation when he claps and stands up in his crib to be picked up by me! I was never a morning person until I had this little guy. Drink lots of black coffee (OK, maybe I’m not yet a morning person) while my husband and I chase him around, make him breakfast (actually my husband is the one who makes and feeds my son his breakfast during the week; it’s their special time) and get ready for the day. Having a child has made my morning routine a lot less leisurely and a lot more efficient, which isn’t a bad thing.

Currently reading en route to work: Every day I read Skift on my iPhone. In theory it’s a daily email about the travel industry, but I find it keeps me informed about overall business trends. It’s also so well done and inspires me to make Jauntsetter better.

Your go-to 48 hour “I need a break from the city” destination: The Silver Sands Motel on The North Fork. It’s an old mom and pop motel that’s completely laid back and unpretentious, and one of the few spots on Long Island that isn’t terribly overdeveloped. In my mind, it’s what the Hamptons and Montauk used to be when I was growing up on Long Island. The motel’s bay waters are also home to Pipes Cove Oysters, which provide oysters to places like Brooklyn’s Marlow & Sons and Grand Central Oyster Bar.

Caveat: Avoid this place like the plague if you enjoy “fancy” accommodations when you travel; it’s anything but. For something more upscale but also on The North Fork, try the Shinn Estates Farmhouse, which is on a picturesque vineyard and is all sorts of lovely.

Next place on your travel list: The Croatian coast, hopefully by boat.

Best destination for a foodie: Domestically, New Orleans. Internationally, Vietnam.

Best destination for a romantic: It may be cliched, but wandering around Paris in nice weather and having picnics and glasses of wine is pretty romantic, even if you’re traveling solo.

Your stay-cation routine/tips: If you can take a weekday off, have a long leisurely lunch at Jean George (in the main dining room), enjoy the water facilities (sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool) at Great Jones Spa and then ride a Citibike over the Williamsburg Bridge and enjoy well crafted cocktail at the Hotel Delmano.

Favorite day date with your husband and baby: Spritzenhaus in Greenpoint is an ultra family friendly bar and restaurant during the day. Our recent routine was taking our baby to swim lessons and then meeting up with all our friends here (we called it our office hours). Now that it’s nicer out, we’ll be moving from Spritzenhaus across the street and picnicking in McCarren Park.

Any hobbies outside of traveling: I love to cook. I’m not very good at it, but I really enjoy the process of trying a new recipe, and if it turns out edible, so much the better.

Best piece of advice ever received: “It’s your job to make your boss look good.” I heard this from one of my first managers and while it may sound absurdly self-serving, if the company you’re working for is organized correctly, it actually makes a ton of sense. Everyone should be working on goals that funnel up and lead into larger goals. If you believe in the goals that are set — and hopefully there are quarterly and annual goals everyone is checking in on and agreeing on — then you should be working to make sure your boss is meeting the goals she has for herself and her department.

My mentor: I wish I could say I had a professional mentor. Levo League is inspiring me to look into this more but for now, the biggest source of support is my mother, who is always has an ear to lend and an encouraging word.

In 10 years…: I want women to earn just as much as men on the dollar and hold 50 percent of board positions. Ideally, this equality will happen much sooner.

Tip for integrating a family life and work life: There’s a trend of people talking about managing their home life the way they manage their professional life, and while it sounds calculating, I think it makes a lot of sense. If I weren’t working on Jauntsetter, I think I’d actually be developing a digital project management tool like Basecamp for families. For now, my husband and I have established a pretty set routine for childcare and use tools like Google calendars to manage any exceptions to our schedules.

Career wisdom for young professional women: Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re starting your own venture. One of the biggest things I overlooked in launching Jauntsetter was marketing, in large part because it was one of the areas I personally had the least experience in and didn’t realize the importance of! It wasn’t until the last year that I realized many people in my network not only know about marketing but are at the top of the field. As it turns out, most of them were all too happy to help me. So ask, ask, ask for help and advice — the worst thing that happens is you’re told no (or your email isn’t returned. Big deal).

Dorothy is a Levo Mentor; ask her a question about founding a company, integrating a family life and work life, and how to incorporate your personal style into your work style. Also, say hi to Dorothy on Twitter.

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The world of public relations is one that rarely sleeps and is “never monotonous” as Rachel Millner pointed out in her interview with Levo. Rachel is the Director of Public Relations for WIRED Magazine, a publication that chronicles how technology is impacting every aspect of our lives – from culture to design to science to relationships.

As the company’s PR head, Rachel is responsible for spreading the word about the publication’s latest initiatives and making sure the WIRED voice is heard in relevant conversations.  And she does her job in style. With Jenna Lyons as her style guru, Rachel can be seen around WIRED’s lofty San Francisco offices sporting clogs and dark rimmed glasses. At home she can be found with her six-month-old son, Felix, dancing to reggae music and making the ultimate BLAT (bacon, lettuce, avocado, tomato — YUM). Read more to hear how Rachel is dreaming big, but also finding time for “sammies” on the beach.

Current Location: San Francisco, CA.

Where are you from originally? Orlando, FL.

Education: University of Florida, Marketing.

Brief Overview of WIRED: WIRED is part of the Conde Nast portfolio. WIRED chronicles how technology is changing every aspect of our lives — from culture to business, science to design. We introduce you to the people, companies, and ideas that matter!

Job Title & Description: I am the Director of Public Relations for WIRED. I help to promote and spread the word about what we’re up to! That includes what’s in print, online, new business news, brand extensions and expansions, and making sure we have the mic on important and relevant news coming out of our industries.

Before this job: I was working at a mid-size agency handling luxury resorts and high-end food clients. I ate and slept very, very well!

How I ended up at my current position: I wanted to make a calculated move into an industry I believed would benefit my career longevity and relevance and for me that was pivoting into the technology sector. There isn’t a better place for me to receive that kind of education than WIRED. I read about really cutting-edge companies and truly inspiring people every day. On a slow day that keeps me current, but most of the time working here gives me a glimpse into the future.

WIRED just celebrated its 20^th Anniversary — what’s next for the magazine? Have you always been interested in the tech industry/“Digital Generation”? I was purposeful in my move into technology, but I am as interested in it as the average coastally-living person. It is part of my everyday life; I’m a digital native. As for what’s coming up for WIRED… lots! We are constantly undergoing change; it’s one of the standards of our brand. We have just undergone a print redesign and we launched a video channel and original series in May.

Your office style in a few words: Juxtapose, I like to mix the old with new, modern takes on classic silhouettes.

Style icon: Jenna Lyons 1000%.

Favorite pair of work shoes: Toss up! Sven’s Swedish Clogs or gold wedges from Anthropologie — they are both comfortable, give me some height, and are unique.

Most trusted brand of jeans: Levi’s.

Favorite lipstick: Nars Heat Wave.

What bag do you carry to work? I carry a Fjallraven Kanken backpack. Handsfree has been very liberating!

A typical day at the office looks like: I’m in PR so there is always something atypical about my days! I usually get in early since I’m based in the West Coast and my East Coast colleagues are way ahead of me! I enjoy my coffee, catch up on email, make my day’s to-do list, and read through the news: publishing trade stuff, tech stuff, and news of the day. I need to know if there is anything that’s going to affect my day’s efforts and if there is anything I should ping the higher-ups about. Then it’s off to meetings so I know what’s coming down the pike editorially, followed by pitching, pitching, pitching. Got to get that in early since that window shuts down for me around 2pm! Followed by my busy work — strategy documents, reviewing lists, and the like — and maybe some networking. I am a big fan of face-to-face meetings. And in between I’m on the Twitter, lurking and tweetin’.

If I need a ten-minute break I: Walk to a little shop around the corner called Small Foods and grab myself something sweet!

Favorite part of your job: It is never monotonous.

Desk/office decor? I keep it clean. Just the necessities on my desktop: fruit, family pack of gum, hand lotion, Le Pens, and document clips — they are one of my favorite inventions. Sometimes I use them as hairpins.

Describe the work environment at WIRED: The environment is highly collaborative and social. We sit in an open floor plan so you see what the gadget lab reporters are testing, what the science writers are ogling, and so on. It’s fun and entertaining, on a good day it doesn’t even feel like work!

Morning routine: I have a six-month-old so my mornings are hectic and planned down to the minute. We’re up early. Our coffee machine has a timer so we get our fix at 5:30 a.m. My son Felix gets his first breakfast, we check our work emails, and then we take turns showering. One person handles diaper duty while the other is getting ready, then we switch and the other one gives Felix his second breakfast. Sometimes we make grownup breakfast, most days that is an on-the-go meal. Somehow we find time every morning for a little family dancing to a reggae record (baby’s choice) and lots of hugs and kisses. Then we hand him off to the nanny and we’re out the door by 7:30!

Currently reading: Top Dog: The Science of Winning and Losing.

Favorite SF restaurant: Plow.

Do you cook? If so, what is your favorite recipe? I used to cook often; I love to cook really satisfying (read: fatty) meals and I’m a baker. Lately, I’ve had to resort to really quick meals. My favorite and a weekly staple is the BLAT. Thick cut bacon, lettuce, avocado, and tomato on some good bread. Sometimes I add in an herby mayonnaise if I’m feelin’ fancy.

Best SF coffee: I am so not a coffee connoisseur.  I use coffee creamer, like flavored stuff. I will probably lose friends over that statement.

Ideal Saturday in/around SF: We like to go down to Half Moon Bay, set up our little tent on the beach and grab some sammies on the road and have a picnic!

As a mother and a wife, what are the key ways you find time for family while also being successful at your career? Any specific time you set aside daily or weekly to check out of work completely? I am focused at work in a way that I’ve never been before.  For me, time spent away from my son needs to be well spent. If I’m not doing work I love and I’m proud of then I would rather be at home hanging with my main man — so I make it count.  As far as going offline there are times when I need to check-in late into the evening and on weekends, but when me or my husband are spending time with my son we do not put a screen between us — unless it’s to take a picture or Skype with family! And if I don’t need to be online, very simply I’m not.

Best piece of advice ever received: There is so much, I’ve been really fortunate to have (some) really excellent bosses. Something I heard more recently at our Business Conference came from Neil Blumenthal, co-founder at Warby Parker. Something like, “presume positive intent.” I love that. It totally changes how I react to potentially volatile work situations and how I receive criticism.

My mentor: I have a few women who I really look up to: my former boss, Samantha; and a VP at WIRED, Maya. They’ve both had really amazing career arcs and are the type of people who are authentic and you just want to spend more time with.

In 10 years… : I hope I’m satisfied with my past 10 years. There are so many paths I’m curious about — perhaps I’ll stay the course and move up to a big, fancy job, maybe I’ll pursue one of my entrepreneurial ideas, perhaps I’ll have written a book or start a foundation or dream of dreams: cash it all in and own and manage a B&B — I don’t know where I’ll end up, but I do hope I’m able to smile about it.

Career wisdom for young professional women: Don’t be complacent. You should feel a little terrified about any new job. If you aren’t at least a little afraid that you’ll fail you haven’t aimed high enough. Taking on positions and tasks you’ve never done before is the only way to learn and grow!

Rachel is a Levo Mentor; ask her a question about the world of public relations, managing family and work, and how to incorporate your personal style into your work style. Also, say hi to Rachel and Wired on Twitter.

Join The Levo League to connect with smart women like you, mentors, sponsors and role models.

Imagine one day walking into a law firm in Houston, Tex., where you work in marketing, and the next day boarding a ship destined for Guinea, Africa, where you will be residing for a year as a journalist. Okay, maybe not exactly overnight, but this drastic turnaround is what Catherine Murphy decided to do in June 2012 when she quit her “real job” and signed up for 18 months in Guinea with Mercy Ships.

Mercy Ships is a non-profit that provides free medical care to impoverished countries along the coast of of Africa via hospital ships that dock and await lines of citizens who suffer from various diseases not seen in developed countries. Civilians with illnesses such as facial tumors, cleft lips, and cataracts that have resulted in blindness stand in a mile-long line hoping that those aboard Africa Mercy can heal them. Many of these people are considered outcasts in their communities, and are amazed to be acknowledged by the Mercy Ships crew as fellow humans who genuinely want to help. To learn more about their mission, watch this moving clip of CBS’s 60 Minutes with Mercy Ships.

It has been a year since Catherine made the leap, and her chronicles of life in Africa can be followed on her blog “My Life Aquatic.” Levo sat with Catherine as she was en route to Houston for a visit, and she told us about her firsthand encounters that seemed so distant from our offices in New York. Read more to hear about Catherine’s day-to-day in Guinea: a favorite local restaurant called Obama bar (pictured below), a new way of dressing (knees remain hidden), and medical miracles aboard the ship.

Current Location: Guinea, Africa.

Where are you from originally? Houston.

Education: The University of Texas at Austin, Journalism.

How did you discover Mercy Ships, and what was the process to get on board (literally)? I heard about Mercy Ships from my uncle and saw an opening on the Communications Team for a Writer. Everything about it seemed challenging and adventurous, so I applied. When they offered me the position, I remember thinking “Well, there is never going to be a ‘perfect’ time to press pause on my career—and I can’t pass up an opportunity like this.” But in the last year I’ve realized that nothing about moving to Africa has meant “pausing” life in terms of my career goals. I’ve been immersed in another culture, I’ve improved my French, I’ve been educated in things I never could have imagined, and I’ve found my passion. When you pursue the life experiences that are meaningful to you, your resume will benefit more than you might expect. There is no ‘Pause’ button, only ‘Play’—and that’s not a bad thing!

What is your role aboard Africa Mercy? I’m a Writer on the Communications Team. My job is to provide written content for things like our website, fundraising campaigns, and donor newsletters. I write everything from stories about patients to speeches to radio spots. I am a volunteer on a ship docked off of Guinea. Everyone here is a volunteer (including our surgeons and nurses).

Before moving to Africa: I worked in marketing for an international law firm in Houston.

As a journalist and blogger, how has working at Mercy Ships shaped your career? In more ways than I can list! I’ve learned about the developing world, about foreign cultures, and about myself. I’ve also made meaningful friendships with people who were led to Africa for the same reasons I was; some of my colleagues here will be people I keep up with for the rest of my life. I have always been interested in the medical field, and this has been the perfect way to put my communications skills to work in an area I am passionate about.

How do you typically dress in Guinea? We can’t show our knees in Guinea, so I stick to conservative patio dresses, flowy skirts, and jeans. After being there so long, it feels normal to me! I put on a pair of Nike shorts to work out last week and felt so… exposed.

Describe your personal style in five words: Minimal, timeless, but with an interesting twist.

Style icon: My grandmother, Annette. She is graceful, timeless, and has a naturally humble elegance about her. Women my age stop her in public on a regular basis to ask for her shade of lipstick. “You finished shopping,” she’ll say when she approves of what you’re wearing. She sports clear nail polish and un-pierced ears. She is everything.

Most used pair of shoes in Africa: Dry season: Red patent-leather ballet flats that have proven to be surprisingly durable. Rainy season: A pair of brown leather round-toed boots that really cannot be described in a charming way.

Essential accessory for work days in Guinea: An interpreter.

Never leave the boat without: My FEED bag, which holds my bug spray, a flashlight, some stolen hotel pens and, of course, my Moleskine.

A day aboard Africa Mercy looks like: Visiting with patients, interviewing surgeons, and working closely with our photographers and videographer on upcoming projects. We are the “eyes and ears” of everything that happens on board; it’s an exciting job.

What is one inspirational story from a patient on board the ship that will stick with you forever? I watched a little girl see for the first time. She had suffered from pediatric cataracts since birth, and when she had her patches taken off she reached down and tried to touch her shadow. I still get chills! The past year has been filled with so many moments like this, such beautiful and moving moments.

How many people are on board the ship, and how many team members do you work with on a daily basis? There are between 350-400 volunteers on board, and we work alongside nearly 200 local translators. There are eight of us on our Communications Team.

What is the overall atmosphere at Mercy Ships? Any specific words to describe the work culture? There is a wonderful atmosphere onboard; our crew is dedicated, hardworking, and passionate about impacting the community one person at a time. As a surgical hospital, our focus is treating physical deformities (for instance, bowed legs, clubbed feet, cleft lips, tumors). Our patients always say that they had no idea they could be “so loved and accepted” when all of their lives they have been dismissed by society for being physically deformed.

7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.: Breakfast, a trip to the market, and French study followed by a visit to the hospital wards to see patients. Life here is always lively and colorful.

Currently reading: I just finished Half the Sky by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn (eye-opening, I highly recommend it!).

Do you venture into town for dinner? Any favorite local spots? I love venturing off-ship for dinner if I’ve been onboard all day. A favorite spot in Conakry is Obama Restaurant, named for our First Lady, actually. The restaurant is on stilts and looks like it is about one huff and puff from crumbling, but the shrimp is so good it’s worth it.

Guinea is experiencing some political unrest—how does this affect you on a daily basis as far as activities, interacting with others, leaving the ship, etc.? Guinea has been enormously welcoming of our organization; it is a country with such a hospitable culture. No matter where our team is, we are always careful to keep a safe distance from areas of potential conflict and focus on the work we are there to do.

You recently came back to the U.S. for a visit before returning to Africa (this time the Congo) for six more months. Do you feel like you have a different outlook after experiencing Africa for a year? If so, can you describe a bit of your changed perceptions? Seeing poverty and suffering up close revealed to me a simple truth: What matters in life is the work we do for others. We may trick ourselves into believing otherwise in the daily grind, but the most fulfilled people I know are those that are grounded and working toward improving the lives of others more than their own—that’s what I want for me (and you!).

What is next for you after you are back from Africa? When I move back I will continue writing and pursuing my love for telling peoples’ stories.

Best piece of advice ever received: Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

My mentor: My editor, Nancy Predaina.

In 10 years…: Still traveling, I hope!

Career wisdom for young professional women: When you set out to help others, the person you will end up helping the most is yourself.

*Ask Catherine a question on her Levo profile, and say hi to Catherine on Instagram and Twitter @clarkemurphy @MercyShips, and don’t forget to follow her blog www.clarkemurphy.wordpress.com. 

*All photography by Ruben Plomp @RubenPlomp www.rubenplomp.com. 

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This week’s Beyond the Pencil (Skirt) takes us to San Francisco for a chat with Tara Syed Williams—a woman who is crazy about data. Tara is the Director of Business Analytics at One Kings Lane, a fantastic resource for online home decor inspiration and shopping (and amazing vintage finds). On a daily basis, Tara dives head first into whatever problem solving lies ahead and translates data so that One Kings Lane continues to grow successfully.

When Tara isn’t digging in to solve problems, she can be found volunteering through the YMCA or with her husband and bulldog, Margaret, at Rodeo Beach. Read more for her tips on leadership, accessorizing, and not selling past the close.

Current Location: San Francisco, Calif.

Where are you from originally? Palo Alto, Calif.

Education: UCLA, Major in Business Economics, Minors in Accounting and Political Science.

Brief Overview of One Kings Lane: One Kings Lane is a leading online destination for the home that connects daily design inspiration with a fresh collection of select home goods, and designer and vintage items you won’t find anywhere else.

Job Title & Description: Director of Business Analytics. My team and I translate data into actionable insights and recommendations for growing the business.

Before this job: I was an analyst for a mid-stage startup in the mobile space.

How I ended up pursuing a career in analytics: I started my career in consulting, giving me the opportunity to work on many different projects with many companies. Though each challenge was unique, there was a uniting thread in the form of multitudes of untapped data. I gravitated quickly towards sourcing, translating, and presenting this information to aid growth decisions, and have been hooked on data ever since.

Have you always been interested in décor and entertaining? How has One Kings Lane impacted your personal tastes?  I found out about One Kings Lane when moving in to my current apartment, but I certainly did not have the understanding or appreciation for home decor that I do now. One Kings Lane has made it easy (and affordable!) to style my home to my personal taste just as I can style myself.

Describe your office style in a few words: Trendy, polished, and bold. Almost always in heels.

Style Icon: Ava Gardner.

Go-to brands for work attire: Diane Von Furstenberg and Zara.

Favorite pair of heels: Nude patent leather peep-toe pumps by Stuart Weitzman.

Daily jewelry: Besides my wedding rings, I always wear at least one piece of statement jewelry. Typically this is a set of gold bangles or a chunky necklace, and I like to complement these big pieces with stud earrings and simple rings.

What bag do you carry to work? My One Kings Lane tote bag, of course! But inside there’s an envelope clutch I can take when going out of the office.

A typical day at the office looks like: In business analytics, no two days are the same, but they are always extremely fast-paced. Working with a few key functional areas means my team and I are given the chance to put on many hats, and it’s always gratifying to dig in with them, spin up, and solve big problems.

If I need a ten-minute break I…: Grab a coffee from the local barista across the street. The fancier the latte art, the better.

Favorite part of your job: I really enjoy charging into dynamic team environments, rallying folks around a mission, and meeting revenue-driving challenges head on. The fact that I’m surrounded by so many smart people makes this possible.

Desk decor: My desk has an eclectic mix of decorative objects and pictures of friends and family, but I do have one key piece of décor: a beautiful horse statue, which has travelled with me to each desk I have had here at One Kings Lane. He lost his tail during one of our moves, but still strikes a regal pose.

Describe the work culture at One Kings Lane: Awesomeness.

Morning routine: Politely suggest that my husband should put some of his ritzy coffee to good use and get me a cup! And after getting ready I make sure to spend some quality time with my bulldog, Margaret, before I depart for the day.

Currently reading: Atlas Shrugged, by Ayn Rand.

Go-to SF spot for a dinner date: Piccino, which is an amazing, beautiful Cal-Italian restaurant in our neighborhood with a fantastic wine list.

Favorite outdoor activities in the Bay Area: Rodeo Beach with the family and planning *accidental* walks past various boutiques in the City.

Where to go to for R&R in SF: A picnic in Dolores Park, a sunny day cocktail on the deck at Mission Rock Resort, or the Crissy Field English Bulldog meetup.

Favorite vacation spot: Paris. Croissants and Chanel? Magnifique!

Hobbies/free time activities: I’ve been volunteering for a program through the YMCA called Youth & Government for the past 10 years. It teaches high schoolers across California about politics and debate through participation in model legislature and court proceedings.

Best piece of advice ever received: Don’t sell past the close.

My mentor: I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors, so it’s hard to name just one.  These relationships formed naturally, and all have been extremely vital in my professional development.

In 10 years…: I would like to have built a successful company grounded in applying an elegant and simple solution to a complex problem.

Career wisdom for young professional women: Become an expert in something, then don’t be afraid to ask for what you believe you have earned. Bring compelling evidence to the table, frame your success in the form of what you are now capable of doing in the future, and then listen.

*Ask Tara a question on her Levo profile, and say hi to One Kings Lane on Twitter @onekingslane.

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Daphne Javitch is the epitome of cool in an endearing, down-to-earth, relaxed-yet-ambitious way. Her apartment/home office is a spatial representation of her personality: inviting and intriguing. Daphne started her career as a costume designer after graduating with a degree in Theater and Art History from NYU. Doing costume design evolved into Daphne’s desire to create something all her own that would allow her to have input on every aspect of what she was creating. So on October 10, 2010, Daphne launched her underwear line TEN at Opening Ceremony, designed to be the “perfect cotton undies” and channeling style icons of the 1960s and ’70s—think Diane Keaton and Jane Birkin.

In addition to TEN, Daphne is a creative consultant for Theory and also works on occasional styling gigs. She is expanding TEN with a capsule clothing collection in Japan this season and through a collaboration with A Détacher, one of her all-time favorite designers. Levo sat down and chatted with Daphne to find that in the midst of everything exciting going on, what is often most needed is an apple and phone-a-friend freebee.

Education: Theater and Art History at NYU.

Where are you from originally? The Upper West Side.

What was the original inspiration behind creating TEN? I was wearing children’s underwear because I couldn’t find perfect everyday cotton undies. I wanted a nostalgic shape in luxurious soft cotton. I was very inspired by my spirit and style icons of the ’60s and ’70s—Diane Keaton, Jane Birkin, Goldie Hawn, Joan Didion—straightforward women with style. That’s my kind of sexy.

Once you developed the concept, what were the next steps in turning your idea into a reality? As soon as the TEN concept was refined, I reached out to friends and colleagues for lots of help and guidance to move forward. The most moving part of starting my business was realizing what a wonderful and generous community of people I’m a part of. I couldn’t have done it alone.

What is the design process behind TEN? All TEN pieces are custom dyed and sewn in the USA. Since we repeat styles, an important part of the design process is contextualizing each collection with images. Each collection has been represented in a different way on our website in order to continue to establish the TEN world.

Who is the TEN woman? The idea was to create everyday undies that are suitable for an unexpected sexy situation….The TEN girl is sexy without trying too hard.

Before launching TEN: I was a costume designer for film and theater from the age of 19 for 10 years.

You are also a design consultant for Theory—what does that entail, and how did you land this position? I have an ongoing and intimate relationship with both the design and sales teams at Theory. I help with concepts, inspiration, trends, styling, and editing the collections. It’s really a dream job. I love the company and am very excited to be a part of their evolution.

Describe your office style in a few words: Clean and balanced with a dash of cartoon.

Style Icon: My latest style icon is Paula Cooper.

Next item you plan to splurge on: It’s a present for someone, so I can’t say!

Favorite store for bargain pieces: Uniqlo men’s department and Cos (which hasn’t come to the U.S. yet, but I’m predicting will be here within two years).

Go-to brand for heels: Manolo Blahnik.

One staple piece every professional woman should have in her closet: A lint roller!

A day running TEN looks like: Day to day we’re developing new styles and colors, sending out samples, doing press, and collecting inspiration. During market weeks, we set up sales appointments with existing and new stores to show them the collection. That’s also when we meet with our Japanese collaborators to start merchandising and designing our TEN x Ron Herman collection, which is a clothing capsule of 10 items for the TEN girl.

Levo’s shoot took place at your amazing apartment in the Lower East Side. What are the positive aspects of having a live/work setup? Any negatives? I like working from home and especially showing the collection from here. TEN is very connected to my point of view, and my apartment helps contextualize that. The down side is establishing and sticking to boundaries, like when to stop working!

Favorite part of your job: When I meet a girl who wears and loves TEN.

A fifteen-minute break from work entails: Eating an apple and calling a friend for a life download.

7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.: In a yoga class or running.

Currently reading: Are You My Mother?

Favorite magazine: The World of Interiors and Apartamento.

Do you cook? If so, what is your favorite recipe? I make yummy salads, but I prefer anything my boyfriend cooks. He’s my favorite restaurant.

Favorite neighborhood spot to grab coffee: Blue Bird.

Favorite city: New York, LA, Tokyo…I can’t choose.

Next place on your travel list: Greece.

Best piece of advice ever received: Proceed.

My mentor: Brigitte Lacombe.

In 10 years…: There will be balance!

Career wisdom for young professional women: Be the person you’d like to work with.

*Say hi to TEN Undies on Twitter @TENUNDIES.

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In honor of Mother’s Day, Levo League decided to chat with a woman who is as much of a rockstar in her career as she is at home with her two children. Lauren Maillian Bias has many titles on her resume—model, CEO, wine expert, marketer, startup advisor, investor, soon-to-be author—and her overarching title of “mom” has not slowed her down one bit. Lauren jumped into the entrepreneurial world at nineteen when she started a vineyard and winery, and has kept up her ambitious pace ever since.

We visited Lauren at her beautiful home in Manhattan where she lives with her two kids Jayden (5) and Chloe (3), and keeps her home office. Jayden and Chloe were gracious (and adorable) hosts, showing us around the house and standing proudly next to their mother in pictures. Read more to learn how Lauren Maillian Bias is truly making a difference in both the world of entrepreneurs and the world of motherhood.

Education: Fashion Institute of Technology (a State University of New York!), International Trade and Marketing, Magnum Cum Laude.

Job Title: Founder and CEO of Luxury Market Branding.

Brief Overview of Luxury Market Branding: Luxury Market Branding is a strategic marketing and branding company that helps consumer-facing luxury brands in the hair care, skin care, and wine and spirits industries creatively communicate their brands, plan and buy media, engage with consumers, and forge meaningful partnerships that drive revenue.

As an entrepreneur, CEO, marketer, wine expert, advisor, investor, and former model, how do you delegate time to each of these roles? Which job title came first, and how did you arrive to where you are today? First came the modeling, then the CEO/marketer/wine expert while building my first company in the wine industry, and most recently startup advisor/investor, and soon-to-be author. I certainly don’t do all of these things at once; it’s really been the evolution of me and my interests!

What is the topic of your book? It is a business memoir on how to attain success and get to the top of your career on your own terms.

All of this, and not to mention you are a mother of two—how did having children affect your career, and how does motherhood continue to influence your business decisions today? Having children hasn’t really affected my career, since I’ve always been an entrepreneur. With my first business, they were always nearby or attached to my hip! My career has progressed and become more demanding while my children have grown and matured; as more opportunities came my way it was serendipitously when they started nursery school, which gave me more guilt-free time to build my other companies. It couldn’t have worked out better, really. Motherhood influences my business decisions because I always want to make my children proud and I take great pride in instilling the values of hard work, persistence, and perseverance in my children. Having children is a humbling honor—it reminds me every day that I have to stay true to myself and what would make them proud years from now.

Describe your office style in a few words: Modern, efficient, and trying to be paperless!

Style Icon: Donna Karan.

Next item you plan to splurge on: A new car!

Favorite store for bargain pieces: Zara.

Heels or flats: Heels—I’m learning to embrace my height!

What does a typical workday look like from morning to end? There is absolutely no normal. Generally speaking it involves lots of running around to meetings, a breakfast or lunch where not much eating actually occurs, a ton of emails and calls, creating and implementing strategies, and, last but not least, making sure the creativity and effectiveness I envision in my mind actually works in real life!

What are the pros and cons of working from home? The pros are my office is always open, it is nearby and comfy, and it forces me to be selective about who I let into my space. The cons are that I feel bad when my kids are home and I can’t spend time with them—I’ve actually moved my office from upstairs to downstairs so that I am out of their way entirely.

As an investor, what do you look for in a startup before giving your support? I look for people who I believe in and who have shown me that they have the ability to lead and manage with grace and sophistication, no matter how young they are.

6:00 a.m.: Sleeping.
7:00 a.m.: Just opening my eyes! On my way to the gym.
8:00 a.m.: At the gym and then getting ready to take my kids to school.
9:00 a.m.: On my way to a meeting.

You have two adorable children, Jayden and Chloe—even at a young age, do they ask you questions about what you do for a living? What are their “when-I-grow-up-I-want-to-be…” dreams? They are really proud to see their mom working, and they get a kick out of watching videos of my speaking engagements. They have also been fortunate to have met many of the people that I’ve become really close with through business, so they tend to ask for updates on people, projects, and companies. As of now, when they grow up, they want to be people who sit at the head of the table on their laptops with iPhones!

Do you have any tips for getting work done while also making time to take care of your kids? Get used to working late, and trust those who help you out around the house or with your children so that you are most productive in your down time—kids are more resilient than adults!

Currently reading: The Art of Being Unreasonable, by Eli Broad; Good to Great, by Jim Collins, and the manuscript for my upcoming book (which I am writing and reading continually).

Favorite meal to cook for your family: Baked salmon with tarragon and Dijon mustard sauce with a side of sautéed spinach.

The perfect place for peace and quiet: Yoga class.

Favorite play date with your kids: Central Park.

Best piece of advice ever received: It will all work out in the end; God doesn’t give you more than you can handle.

My mentor: Can’t really say I have one—a great supporter is Ed Mathias at the Carlyle Group, and my biggest inspiration is Mellody Hobson.

In 10 years…: Hopefully many more proud accomplishments under my belt. Perhaps another company started and sold.

Career wisdom for young professional women: Be hungry to succeed, not thirsty for attention. Don’t assume that the popular people are successful—some of the most accomplished professionals keep low profiles for a good reason.

*Say hi to Lauren on Twitter @LaurenMBias and ask her a question on her Levo League mentor profile.

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A career in finance denotes a rigorous path and serious time commitment, especially in the primary years. Oftentimes the industry is noted for its male-dominant corporations comprised of suits, boardrooms, and Excel charts. However, Alexandra Weiss, an associate at BlackRock—one of the world’s largest publicly traded investment management firms—is proving that the stereotype has its outliers.

Alexandra has accelerated her career during her five years at BlackRock, and can be found wearing printed dresses and Pucci flats amongst her male colleagues (and with the utmost confidence). Her plans to attend Harvard Business School in the fall (and a trip to Guatemala on the way) show that there are even bigger ambitions and accomplishments ahead of her. Read more to find out how she moved seamlessly from an all girls school to being one of the only girls at the table.

Education: Stanford University; Biological Sciences major.

Job Title/Company: Associate in the iShares Business Strategy group. My job is best described as the “right hand wo-man” to the Global Head of iShares—I organize and prioritize his client and employee engagements; create his presentations, communications and briefing memos; and work on strategy projects with the broader group to support him and the Executive Committee in making strategic business decisions.

Brief overview of the BlackRock: BlackRock is the world’s largest investment manager. Our clients include pension plans, governments, endowments, corporations, banks, financial professionals, individuals, and many other investors. We provide a broad range of investment capabilities, including iShares ETFs (exchange traded funds). (ETFs 101: ETFs are investment vehicles that give you exposure to several securities in an index, like the S&P 500, and trade like a stock on an exchange, like the New York Stock Exchange.)  iShares is the biggest ETF provider in the world, with approximately $800 billion (!) in assets today.

Before this job: I was in college. I did my last summer internship at BlackRock in San Francisco (apparently, I’m one for consistency). Before that, I interned at a healthcare systems startup in Silicon Valley.

How I ended up at my current position: My BlackRock internship in San Francisco turned into a full-time position in the Financial Institutions Group in New York. I spent three years working with my team to manage our relationships with global insurance companies and banks. Ready for a change, I got a job on the Corporate Strategy team, which was then being run by Mark Wiedman, who is now the Global Head of iShares. I spent a year and a half working on strategy projects on behalf of our execs and business leaders to improve and grow existing business, build out new businesses and improve profitability and efficiency. Then, long story short, I eventually followed Mark to iShares, starting my current role last December.

Have you always been interested in business and finance? As a Biology major, obviously not! I thought I was headed for medical school until my internship at that healthcare startup. I discovered that the business aspects of that job were very intriguing and motivating for me, and I decided to take a risk and give BlackRock a shot the next summer. Despite finishing my pre-med requirements in college, here I am several years later.

Describe your style in a few words: Corporate chic: a lot of black and beige. I love blazers. And layers of pearls are my staple accessory, but I try to wear them every other day instead of every day!

Style Icon: The ‘dressed down’ Anna Wintour. In her everyday attire, she always looks professional and chic (classic shift dresses, cashmere shells, blazers, and those necklaces… yes please!).

Favorite brand for office attire: Theory. They have the best basics that I can layer with some more funky (for the finance world) accessories.

In a corporate environment, how do you mix up your daily work-wear routine? I get creative with my shoes, patterned stockings (in the fall and winter), statement necklaces, and pops of bright color (e.g., electric blue shell under my suit, Pucci patterned flats, pink J. Crew tweed blazer).

A day at the office looks like: They all look the same to a fly on the wall—I’m typically in the office from sometime between 8:30am and 9:00am until 7:30pm. When I’m at my desk, my email is on my left monitor and PowerPoint is on the right one. I spend a lot of time on the phone since a lot of iShares employees are in San Francisco, and I get up for anywhere from 2-5 meetings a day—and of course, lunch and an afternoon coffee. The things that a fly on the wall can’t see are different every day; what I do and think about relies heavily on my boss’s schedule and his commitments for the next few days and weeks.

Favorite part of your job: (1) Seeing Mark give a presentation I worked on and rocking it (he always does)! (2) Traveling to San Francisco on a regular basis—the rest of my team is based there.

How has working in a male-heavy industry impacted you personally and professionally? Any positive takeaways from your male colleagues that have helped shape your career? I went to an all girls school from 7th through 12th grade and to an all girls sleepover camp for six years. Obviously, I spent a significant amount of my adolescence surrounded by only females, but for some reason now, when I’m at a conference table with mostly men (which is a regular occurrence) it doesn’t phase me. I usually think to myself in the first few moments I’m in the room, oh, I’m one of the only women at the table. But that’s it; I carry on. It’s all about confidence, I think—believing that they’ll value your contributions just as much as the guy sitting next to you. And I do.

Currently reading en route to work: My work email, then daily emails from NYTimes and theSkimm, and then, if I still have time, the next few pages of Gone Girl (it always takes me a while to get through a book, but I always finish what I start).

For a fifteen-minute break at work I…: Walk around the block and get an iced coffee (in any season) from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf—so happy to have one in NYC now.

Hobbies/free time activities: Walking The Highline, organizing (things and activities), meeting up with friends, checking off my NYC bucket list, always trying to make time for a nap (and never taking one).

Workout routine: I don’t belong to a gym anymore because I do SoulCycle 2-3 times a week, go to bikram yoga (usually on the weekends), and run outside (amazingly, the highline is empty at 7:00 a.m.—it’s a great way to end a run along the Hudson River).

Favorite city in the world: Without a doubt, New York. I can’t believe I’m moving back to Boston (I grew up in Massachusetts), but mark my word, NYC, I will be back!

You are heading off to Harvard Business School soon. What made you decide to take this next step? I have wanted to get an MBA for the past five years, and I felt ready to apply this summer, when I knew that I had spent enough time at BlackRock to take a leap and explore the breadth of business beyond finance. HBS will give me the opportunity to meet a lot of other people who are passionate about their careers and can provide perspectives on other industries and professional experiences. I know I will be exposed to a broad range of complex real-world strategic business and leadership challenges and will become better equipped to make a decision about the next step (and next several steps) in my career. Plus, I’m excited to have time to travel! First trip—Guatemala in June.

In 10 years…: I will figure out how to have a career and kids. Now, I don’t think I even have time for a puppy—or even a fish!

Best piece of advice ever received: When I was leaving my first group at BlackRock, my manager said to me, “Why are you spending so much time making this decision? You already know the answer; you’re just trying to justify it.” Essentially, when we’re making decisions, we almost immediately know the right answer. Why waste time thinking about it—just go with your gut!

Also, never buy shoes that don’t fit. If they don’t fit today, they’re not going to fit tomorrow.

My mentor(s): (1) My mom and my dad—they taught me to value my education and career. I’m more thankful for that today than ever before—getting to go back to HBS and follow in my dad’s footsteps is a dream! (2) Mark Wiedman. He helped me navigate my career at BlackRock, gave me the opportunity to work for iShares and, on top of that, encouraged me to give it up to get an MBA.

Career wisdom for young professional women: Speak up. People want to hear what you have to say just as much (or even more) than the guy sitting next to you. Also, be proactive about your career. It’s okay to have a 2-year, 5-year and/or 10-year plan. Your plan can change—but make one and be proud of it!

*Say hi to Alexandra and BlackRock on Twitter @alexandramweiss @blackrock.

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If you’re living on the East or West Coast, there’s a good chance you’ve either heard of or caught the bug going around—”the bug” being the mass movement that is SoulCycle, an indoor cycling phenomenon that is spreading across the country at a rapid pace. SoulCycle is not your typical cycling class, it is an experience (both physical and spiritual, in a way) that incorporates cycling with core and arm work and takes place in a dim, candlelit room bumping with motivating music.

SoulCycle was founded by two women who were craving an effective cardio class that was also somewhat of a “sanctuary.” Fast forward: SoulCycle is now a community of devoted followers who all swear by it, and their PR and Marketing Director, Gabby Etrog Cohen, is heading up the company’s expanding vision.

Gabby chatted with Levo about her passion for fitness, her weekly morning dates at Trader Joe’s with her two-year-old daughter, and her equal love for both Nike hi-tops and Miu Miu sequin sneakers.

Education: Syracuse, BFA in Theater; NYU, MS in Tourism Marketing and Development.

Job Title/Company: PR and Marketing Director, SoulCycle.

Brief overview of the company: Premier full-body indoor cycling workout.

Before this job I…: I started my career in tourism and travel PR. My hotel and destination experience includes Westin Hotels & Resorts, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, and The Jane Hotel to name a few.

How I ended up at my current position: I was actually recruited on LinkedIn. I’ve always been interested in fitness and health, so the job opportunity was a perfect fit.

As a theater major, did you ever consider pursuing a career in acting? I realized there were 10 other things I could do that I would love as much as acting, and if that was the case, I should NOT pursue theater. To be an actor, it has to be far and away the only thing that will make you happy. I still wish I had tried out for SNL!

Describe your style in a few words: Comfortable, athletic, and urban.

Favorite brand of fitness gear: SoulCycle fitness gear, of course!

Most trusted brand of sneakers: Nike—every style, especially Dunk hi-tops. And Miu Miu sparkle sneakers.

Make up routine: BB cream, and The Creamy Glow by Kevyn Aucoin as an all over blush.

A day at the office looks like: It is always changing. Could be at a shoot, meeting a reporter, scouting a new studio, or planning a new marketing campaign.

Favorite part of your job: The people. SoulCycle is the most supportive, warm, encouraging environment; I feel like I work with my best friends or family.

How often do you get to sneak away from your desk to join a SoulCycle class? At least 3-5 times a week.

7:00 a.m.—11:00 a.m.: With my daughter, husband, and dog. My daughter and I go to Trader Joe’s at least two mornings a week at 8:00 a.m. It’s our ritual.

Currently reading: Magazines. The Hollywood Reporter is one of my favorites; it allows me to keep up with what is going on at our West Coast studios.

Favorite fitness or health blog: I love our SoulCycle blog transformation stories. It is amazing to see how impactful SoulCycle has been on people’s lives.

Hobbies/free time activities: Seeing Broadway musicals and hanging with my family, especially my two-year old daughter; she is my best buddy.

Favorite spot for a breath of fresh air in NYC: The West Side Highway—just seeing the water relaxes me.

Best piece of advice ever received: If it doesn’t make you happy, change it.

My mentor: My first PR boss—she taught me everything I know about Public Relations.

In 10 years…: Who knows! Hopefully happy and healthy.

Career wisdom for young professional women: If you want to work for a specific company, take ANY entry level position at the company and try to move up. Don’t wait for your dream position.

*Say hi to Gabby and SoulCycle on Twitter @gabbyetco @soulcycle.

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There are rare New York moments when you get a glimpse of “Old New York”—a different time and place that still peeks through today when you look closely. One such precious instance occurred when visiting the Kenneth Jay Lane showroom with Cleo Davis- Urman, Brand Manager at Moda Operandi, the high fashion e-commerce boutique. Levo sat with Cleo and Mr. Lane himself to browse through his book Faking It while Cleo selected pieces for a trunk show she is curating for Moda. Mr. Lane told us the stories behind his exquisite costume jewelry—“I designed this piece for Jackie,” he exclaimed as he pointed to a page. Old, glamorous New York.

Cleo is a bit of an old soul herself. She joined Moda Operandi during its early stages because of its “groundbreaking” premise and CEO, Aslaug Magnusdottir, and has grown with the company since she jumped on board (after interning for Rachel Zoe). It’s not uncommon for Cleo to be jetting off to fashion shows and mingling with fellow fashionistas at Paris’ Ferdi, but she’s also keeping it cool, finding time to relax in her New York apartment and spending time with her mentors: her mother and father.

Education: Columbia University, Barnard College; Art History Major.

Job Title/Company: Brand Manager and Spotlight Editor at Moda Operandi. My responsibilities include everything from managing relationships with existing brands as well as scouting potential and emerging brands in the accessories market, curating and editing the Moda Operandi Gift Guide as well as other specialty trunkshows like “Chanel Little Black Jacket”, and contributing regularly to the Moda Operandi Magazine. Additionally, I spearhead our “Spotlight” feature, which enables customers to shop celebrity looks from the Red Carpet, as well as the Runway.

Brief overview of the company: Moda Operandi is the only place to preorder looks straight from the unedited runway collections of the world’s top designers–months before they are available anywhere else.

Before this job I…: Worked in Celebrity Styling under Rachel Zoe and then Brad Goreski.

How I ended up at my current position: Prior to graduating, I interviewed at Moda Operandi in its very early stages. I knew immediately that what was going on here was exciting, even groundbreaking, and that’s the sort of environment I thrive in and wanted to be part of. My first role was working in the office of our brilliant CEO, Aslaug Magnusdottir and as the company evolved, I evolved with it.

Had you always seen yourself pursuing a career in fashion? Always.

Describe your style in a few words: Polished with a pop—a little Grace, a little Audrey, but all Cleo, who is, after all, a muse.

Style Icon: The Swans of the 1960s and their modern-day counterpart, Lauren Santo Domingo.

If you could describe your style as a city, which city would it be? New York now, because it embodies the past, the present, and the future all at the same time.

Next item you plan to splurge on: A Bouchra Jarrar trench coat. If I owned this jacket, I wouldn’t mind if it rained every day. I also can’t wait to accessorize my spring looks with a tribal-inspired, statement necklace from Venna, and a pair of handcuffs, yes handcuffs, from Jennifer Fisher, all available in Moda Operandi’s boutique.

Favorite store for bargain pieces: I am a big believer in mixing high and low. I frequent stores like Zara, J.Crew, and the Gap for pieces that can be easily integrated with my more special pieces.

What bag do you carry to work, and what are the essential items inside? Celine Luggage Tote: my laptop, the book of the moment, my makeup bag, chargers and adapters. This bag has accompanied me on countless fashion month trips abroad—I joke that each time I reach in I pick up a different currency!

Favorite Designer: Raf Simons.

Favorite part of your job: Traveling! From Tel Aviv to Milan, Hong Kong to Paris, I have been very lucky to see what these fabulous cities have to offer firsthand.

Describe the feeling of jetting off to Europe for fashion week. What was your favorite show from the Fall Winter 2013 collections? Each time I board my fashion flight I experience one of those “pinch me” moments. While there is nothing quite like the feeling you experience when the lights go down and the music turns up at a fashion show, I personally enjoy getting to visit the showrooms of the brands, whether they are storied fashion houses or emerging talent, because you get to have a tactile response and hear firsthand what the inspiration was. My favorite show for Fall Winter 2013 was by far Dior. The way Raf Simons re-appropriated the pop works of Andy Warhol was beyond brilliant as it gave new meaning to wearable works of art. Andy would have approved!

What is it like working alongside fashion greats (Aslaug Magnusdottir, Lauren Santo Domingo, Taylor Tomasi Hill, etc.)? It is a total dream come true. I admire each of these women for different reasons, but all three have helped me grow exponentially during my two years at Moda.

What have you learned from working firsthand with fashion icons like Mr. Lane (Kenneth Jay Lane)? From First Ladies of the United States to first ladies of the silver screen, Mr. Lane’s costume creations have been worn by the most glamorous women in the world. The epitome of high-style, his jewelry transcends time and remains forever young. Mr. Lane possesses a rare talent as he has managed to keep his collection fresh and relevant over 50 years later. I feel very fortunate to have had the chance to work with him so closely.

8:00 a.m.—11:00 a.m.: Working! When you love your job it doesn’t feel like work. If I am not on the office, I am often attending tradeshows, or at fairs researching and scouting new talent, or spending time seeking inspiration in museums or reading magazines.

Currently reading en route to work: Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan.

Work out regiment: Spinning, Yoga, Pilates, Bootcamp—I have to remind myself I can do anything for an hour.

Hobbies/free time activities: Vintage shopping or antiquing—I am always in pursuit of the next great find.

Favorite place in NYC for peace and quiet: My apartment.

Favorite Paris restaurant/drink spot (for FW recouping)? Ferdi for the world’s best margarita.

Best piece of advice ever received: You have to love somebody more than you love yourself.

My mentor: My beautiful and brilliant mother, who taught me that true style emanates from within, and my incredibly eloquent father, who elevates conversation to an art form.

In 10 years…: I hope to have at least one dog, maybe two.

Words of wisdom for young women professionals: You have to be flexible and open—if you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.

*Say hi to Cleo and Moda Operandi on Twitter @MissCleoViolet @modaoperandi.

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There is always a rush of excitement when flipping through the youthful and vibrant pages of  Teen Vogue. Not surprisingly, the women behind the magazine are just as inspiring.

Levo met with Assistant Fashion Market Editor Sarah Pillai, who is closely involved in all the inner workings of the publication. The soon-to-be-mother (congrats!) is happily devoted to doing something she loves every day, and surrounded at work by some of the fashion industry’s most inspiring female leaders, who are also wonderful examples of how motherhood and a career in fashion are not mutually exclusive. (Editor-in-chief Amy Astley is a mother of two, and Gloria Baume, the magazine’s renowned Fashion Director, is a mother as well.)

Read more to hear how Sarah, a math major-turned-fashionista, is planning fashion shoots, channeling Ali MacGraw, and commuting to work with baby books in hand.

Education:  Boston University; Management at Harvard.

Job Title/Company:  Assistant Fashion Market Editor, Teen Vogue.

Before this job I…:  I was freelancing in the industry, jumping from internship to internship, then from freelance gigs to paid gigs, and finally landed an interview at Teen Vogue. The rest is history!

How I ended up at my current position:  My former boss at Nanette Lepore saw Gloria Baume (Teen Vogue’s Fashion Director), who mentioned the need for an assistant, and I was referred and hired the next week.

Had you always seen yourself pursuing a career in fashion?  Actually no! I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I went to school for math (laughs out loud), and then my internships helped me realize that I wanted to do something every day relating to clothes and fashion. My internships really really excited me, so I went with my gut and stuck with it! It has definitely paid off!

Style Icon:  Ali MacGraw in Love Story—simple, classic, timeless.

Next item you plan to splurge on:  Probably a great fall coat, since I won’t be pregnant then. Until then it’s maxi and flowy dresses galore!

Favorite store for bargain pieces:  I love Zara. There, I said it. They always have great stuff!

Favorite designer:  Prada, always.

Typical workday routine:  Wake up, check emails, go on appointments, run around the city, arrive at the office and answer about 800 emails, manage the clothes in for fashion stories, develop trends for the new stories (mostly denim), and help the team coordinate shoots. It’s all very exciting, and tiring—but exciting!

Favorite part of your job:  Getting the magazine. I love seeing the finished product.

Describe Teen Vogue‘s company culture:  We’re so small, so it has to be very communicative—it’s a small fashion family!

Do impromptu fashion shows ever take place in the office?  Ha ha, I wish!  The editors usually are wearing something cool enough on an everyday basis… we’re basically sensory overloaded!

What is it like working alongside fashion industry role models (Amy Astley, Gloria Baume, etc.)?  It’s amazing working for strong and powerful women, especially who are moms (as a mom-to-be). I see how they balance career and family, and are still wonderful to work for and with on a daily basis. They are truly an inspiration that you can have it all—definitely role models.

Morning routine:  I usually find time to go to the gym. If not, always cleaning my apartment.

Currently reading en route to work:  I’m reading baby books, it’s almost that time!

Do you cook? If so, what is your favorite recipe?  My husband cooks, but if I were to make my favorite recipe it would be salted caramel mini cupcakes, they are to DIE for!

Favorite date night with your husband:  Going out to dinner and walking around the city, especially in this beautiful weather we’re having!

How do you feel as a soon-to-be mom who has a busy career? Do you have any specific mentors or role models who are encouraging you in this exciting next chapter?  Again, working with Amy and Gloria on a daily basis shows me that you can have a great balanced life. I saw my mom juggle six (six!!!) kids and I know anyone who can do that can handle that and a job in fashion, it should be easy, right?!

Best piece of advice ever received: Manners go a long way! (Mom). Another that I use and dish out often is “communication is key.”

In 10 years…:  I’ll be running a brand that I believe in and love, and watch my children grow up in a beautiful world… on the beach. Was the beach part too much??

Career wisdom for young professional women:  Don’t give up. If you really want it, go after it! And remember your manners!

*Say hi to Sarah and Teen Vogue on Twitter @SarahPillai  @TeenVogue.

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