Welcome to M2057's first Spotlight Series, a monthly series featuring dynamic, stylish, and powerful women that inspire us.
ACHIEVING THE DREAM
I have always loved fashion, so I worked hard to break into the fashion magazine world. I interned at Shape Magazine while in college, and worked for them after college. It was my dream job at 22-years-old. Then, more than twenty-one years ago, I accomplished my ultimate goal and got a job at Cosmo, and I’ve been here ever since. I worked both in New York and Chicago and feel lucky every day to have this career!
There have been many challenges over my two decades. I’ve embraced my work ethic and ability to move onward as necessary, and learned that no one could do it better.
FINDING THE BALANCE
I love everything about being a woman. I am proud of the women and mom that I am. I am all of 5’3” and have always felt size didn’t matter as long as your voice is heard. My dad taught me that and I carry that with me to the boardroom!
With age and wisdom, I have learned how to establish a work/life balance. This took many years to accomplish, but being a mom has always been my number one priority. I wake up very early to make sure my kids are ready, fed, and prepared for school, then rush to get ready and get to work. While at work I am fully engaged (except if my kids text). I leave work to make dinner for my family every evening. I was brought up with family dinners and happily I have been able to do this with my family.
We share Pit (the worst thing of the day) and Peak (the best thing of the day), and just catch up. Our kitchen table is a no-phone zone so we actually talk—a novel concept today I know!
My children and I donate our time at The Ronald McDonald House. I have a special place in my heart for all children and I've been able to transfer that to my children. We give back to children several times a year. My favorite hobby is working out both by running, classes, weights and to chill with meditation and yoga. I have an elliptical under my desk that I use while I am working (it’s awesome!).
Alissa wears the DORA TOP in asteroid print and the TURNER 2 SKIRT in black
STYLE THAT FITS
I love a classic fitted style with a hint of bohemian chic. The fit is always key for me. I love when my clothes lay perfectly and look super elegant. I only buy quality pieces that last. My work style is very polished, and I have several vintage pieces that I wear often. Audrey Hepburn is my number one icon. I love everything about her, followed by Coco Chanel, Jackie Kennedy, and Brigitte Bardot.
I love M2057's styles, fit, and the ease of all the items. I’ve never been able to wear this type of quality and not send it to the dry cleaners. It’s amazing, actually.
I wear my sleeveless tops like the Dora to work, out with the girls, and for date night with my hubby. They all fit beautifully and are chic and comfortable. Skirts like the Turner 2 make me feel sexy, and the pants fit gorgeously. I will live in wraps like the Streep this fall and winter. It's hard to choose my favorite—I love them all.
When I'm at home or for date night I am all about comfy—I still love jeans, high heels, and sleevless tops, with a leather jacket to wear over them in winter. I always finish things off with diamonds and cuffs, whether work or casual. When I'm really dressing up to go out, it's leather pants, a chic sleevless top, the highest of heels, and my signature rings and cuff.
Alissa wears the denim ONO TUNIC and the SYLVIA SKINNY PANT in cargo gray
ALISSA'S QUICK CUTS
What's your favorite color?
Yellow
What's your sign?
Aquarius
What are you watching, reading, and/or listening to right now?
I just finished Once We Were Brothers and am just starting Saving Sophie. Ronald Balson is a fascinating author.
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
You can do anything you put your mind to and if anyone gets in your way they’re jealous. #Onward (My dad shared this with me in 7th grade while I was dealing with teenage mean girls.)
Favorite dish?
Sushi—I could eat it three times a day
Coffee or tea? How do you take it?
Double shot latte and almond milk
Pants or Skirts?
Pants
Perfect date?
Anywhere with my husband
If you could live anywhere (and money is no object), where would you choose?
South of France
Best gift you've ever received?
Meeting my husband and then creating our children
Best fashion gift you've ever given?
Chanel cuff
What wisdom would you tell your younger self?
Don’t sweat the small stuff. Embrace your life and laugh through it ALL!
What brings you joy?
This is the easiest question of all. My children, Jake and Kaley French.
