LOL! Summer literally just kicked off today, and Monday’s Memorial Day in the US, yet here I am, rocking a thick coat in front of a Christmas tree for my photoshoot. Fashion’s a time traveler, folks! Designers and brands are always sprinting ahead of the seasons, just like those stores—cough, TJMaxx—that go full Halloween mode by the end of summer.

So, check out my ensemble!

Do you love it?

Curious about the brand behind this magic? Picture this: a coat with moleskin and openwork bands, a sheath of sequined bronze cloth, and a black crocodile handbag. Helbert Noorda snapped these shots for Italian Vogue.

With all the posing and smiling, I had to mentally teleport to Memorial Day plans with military families to stay focused during my Hollywood shoot.

As I was leaving, an influencer complimented my outfit and asked about the price of the coat, sandals, and that snazzy crocodile bag.

Caught off guard—since people think I’m a bit of a snob (spoiler: I’m not, just guarded!)—I grabbed her arm and said, “Let’s go backstage!”

She was thrilled, and we bolted to my dressing room, where she ogled the price tags: $1500 for the coat, $500 for the shoes, $1300 for the bag.

She did some mental math and then tried on the coat. Bursting with life, she asked where to pay. I introduced her to the merchandise guru in the hallway. Turns out, because I wore them, she scored a 35% discount and was over the moon. “Wait for me, Barbie!” she shouted as we strolled down the hall.

She thanked me for the sweet deal, revealing her thriving business allows her to splurge without a second thought.

When I asked how she knew about my blog tips, she said she’d been following my storytelling and clicked on a link that led her to a game-changing marketing course.

What a gem she is!

Before hopping into her Porsche, she hugged me and said, “Thanks again, Barbie.

See you at your next fashion event.” Speechless, I waved goodbye, knowing I’d made a fabulous friend.