Another edition of Maria Pinto’s Spotlight Series, In Her Own Words, is here. Each month, we feature the dynamic, stylish, and powerful women who inspire us daily.
This month’s spotlight features Grace Paul, 3L at Seton Hall University School of Law and incoming First-Year Associate at Cozen O’Connor.
Grace is wearing the Aurora Jacket in Cosmos, the Mika Top in Black, the Taro Pant in Guntar, and the Horizontal Belt.
What industry do you work in and what is your role?
I am currently a 3L at Seton Hall University School of Law. I have accepted an offer to work for Cozen O’Connor as a First-Year Associate in their New York office upon graduation.
What was your path to getting where you are today?
After graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2020, I moved to Washington, D.C., to forge a career in government. I worked on Capitol Hill for three years, ending as a Legislative Assistant for Rep. Mike Gallagher. I loved working in D.C., but I always wanted to pursue higher education, which drove me to apply to law school.
What hobbies, organizations, or philanthropies are you involved in?
One of my favorite hobbies is skiing, so I am trying to make the most of the winter season while I can. I grew up skiing with my family, and my fiancé is an avid skier too so we try to get out when we can. I have a couple trips planned, so keep your fingers crossed for good snow!
How do you create a work-life balance for yourself?
I am still working on creating a good work-life balance for myself, and there’s always room for improvement! I’m typically someone who says yes to every extracurricular and social event, but I’m focusing on learning to say no to overcommitments.
Grace is wearing the Livia Jacket and Chantal Skirt in Tourmaline.
What do you love and/or appreciate about being a woman?
The thing I cherish most about being a woman is the incredible friendships I’ve built with other women. Although moving to new cities can prove challenging to maintain those friendships, every bit of effort is worth having them by my side.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is full of color and texture. I look for timeless pieces that make a statement.
How are you dressing right now?
Right now, I’m dressing in tall boots, cozy sweaters and peacoats to keep warm during winter.
What's important to you when it comes to buying clothing?
When buying clothing, quality is most important to me. Clothes that can withstand years of wear and feel good on your skin are worth investing in.
How does your work style differ from your more casual or going-out style?
My work style involves classic silhouettes with a preppy twist. On the weekend you can find me in jeans, a leather jacket, and boots most of the time!
Grace is wearing the Tilda Dress in Avalanche and the Python Belt in Grey.
What are your favorite Maria Pinto pieces?
My favorite Maria Pinto pieces are the Makiko Top and Zadie Pant. They are the perfect pieces to take from working all day into happy hour or dinner!
What are you watching, reading, and/or listening to right now?
Right now, I am devouring the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas. Whenever I’m not reading for class, I’m in a cozy coffee shop reading different fantasy books.
How do you take care of yourself?
My favorite form of self-care is food! Treating myself to my favorite takeout or getting dinner with my fiancé or friends and trying something new helps me relax and recover from a long week.
Best gift you've ever received?
The best gift I ever received is a lamp that my grandfather made. He rewired an old candlestick telephone into a lamp that turns on when you lift the mouthpiece. It’s traveled with me to every apartment!
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
The best piece of advice I’ve heard is that the effect you have on others is the most valuable currency there is. It’s a great reminder that holding the door open, giving someone a smile or reaching out to a friend can mean the most.
All looks styled with jewelry available in our Chicago Boutique.
Photo Credit: Special thanks to Ana Miyares for the stunning photography.