You were a beauty editor at Refinery29 for a few years and recently went out on your own as a freelance journalist! What inspired you to take the leap and go off on your own?

It was divine timing. I was thinking about leaving Refinery29 for about a year before it happened. I had a gut feeling that I’d outgrown the beauty editor position and was craving a change. But R29 was my first job out of college, so I was comfortable, loyal to the brand, and apprehensive about leaving a full-time position. Then, the universe gave me a push (more like a shove): R29 was part of an acquisition that dissolved a few editorial arms, including my position. So I was effectively out of a job — but it was 100% the best thing for my career and personal growth. Leaving has opened so many doors, I have been able to write features for dream outlets (I still do freelance work for R29, too), and I’ve taken on some amazing startup projects, which I find so fun and fulfilling.

Megan wears the Delphine Midi Dress

What is one thing you have learned working in the media?

Anyone who works in media will tell you it’s a tough industry. If you’re looking for a safe and secure job, a career in media is not it. But it is so fun! And because things change and evolve so fast — writers and editors are constantly contending with new platforms, trends, and audience appetite — I’ve learned how to be quick and flexible, and to lean into the parts that bring me joy. It sounds woo-woo, but when you have fun making the art (writing the interview or feature story), it will reach the right people at the right time. It’s an energy thing.

You empower women through beauty tips and insights, can you share an instance where you felt your journalism significantly impacted someone’s confidence or style journey?

Oh my gosh, thank you! This is such an insightful question. I often think about this from my perspective, not as a writer but as a reader. I read so much style content; I’m obsessed with Q&As like this! I love how it connects me with other women, their worlds, values, and lessons, and I learn so much! For me, and so many women, style and confidence are interconnected, so I try to keep that in mind in my work and focus on telling stories that will empower women the way that the writing I love to read resonates with my heart and arms me with confidence.

Please share some of your best beauty/fashion tips for representing the best version of yourself, inside and out:

Self-compassion is at the heart of it. If you love yourself and invest in your growth and well-being, you’ll show up as the most beautiful, stylish, authentic version of yourself. Therapy is a beauty tip!

What beauty trends do you foresee gaining momentum the latter half of 2024 into 2025?

I want to say doing less. I think all of us are exhausted by the constant barrage of new products and treatments — it’s all so expensive! Plus, the consumer is so smart and aware that so much of the beauty industry is marketing. It doesn’t mean we’re completely divesting, but we’re being more mindful in considering what we ‘need’ — that will look differently for everyone, for some it’s Botox, and for others, it’s just a good sunscreen — all the rest is just noise we can filter out.

As a former beauty editor, you’ve tried a lot of products and treatments. Can you share with us some products or treatments that you think are seriously worth the hype and why you love them?

In this same vein, I regret many treatments I’ve done! I got Botox when I was 27 and it weirdly froze my face and changed the way my eyes looked when I smiled. I used to get Japanese gel manicures all the time, and now I paint my nails at home and they look much healthier. Less is more! As for what’s worth it? I like a good facial. Microneedling is worth it for me because my skin never looks better or brighter than after microneedling treatment. A massage is also an instant mood booster (my favorite spa in the city is the Shibui Spa at The Greenwich Hotel — get the Druken Lotus!) As for products, I need a good antioxidant serum, hydrating moisturizer, and sunscreen. I’ve learned that good skincare is about understanding your skin, giving it what it needs (I’m normally dry so I’m good about hydration), and preventing damage.

You’ve met some super cool celebrities such as Selena Gomez at a Rare Beauty event! Any fun stories you can share with us about meeting your icons IRL?

Everyone is always so much nicer than I think they’ll be! Selena is super generous with her time. I always have fun interviewing male celebs, it’s a fun switch-up. One of my favorite interviews of all time was with Jake Gyllenhaal — I’m such a huge fan! — and I was able to interview him once while working with Prada. During our chat, he told me his house smells like pasta sauce and his best beauty advice is fabulous life advice: Read brilliant minds.

How do you stay up to date with all the latest beauty trends?

I read a lot of newsletters. I love Substack — it’s the best place to get curated, insider style and beauty content. Also, I listen to podcasts. Fat Mascara and Gloss Angeles are both great resources for beauty trends.

What draws you to the Mestiza brand?

The unique and specific point of view. Browsing the collections, I can tell exactly what Mestiza is. There’s a strong focus on the silhouette and architecture of the dresses specifically. I’m a sucker for a puff sleeve!

How does wearing your Mestiza piece make you feel?

I feel fun and confident! This dress is so beautifully made. I love the burnt orange against the white pattern, it’s punchy and bright but still reads as neutral. The length is perfect on me (I’m 5’2” and it skims my ankles). The sleeves can be puffed up or pulled off the shoulder. I see myself wearing this dress for a late-summer dinner served in the backyard, barefoot and happy.