Modeliste Mode Around The Home: Brooke Carrie Hil
Self-Care #STAYATHOME Virtual Getaway
@brookecarriehil
Photographed by Lisa Richov
Hair Styled by Andre Davis
How do you spend the first thirty minutes of your day?
The first part of the day is one of the few aspects of life in quarantine that still bears a strong resemblance to what it used to look like for me, which is to just to say…iced coffee. Although caffeine is an addiction that’s obviously shared by many of us, I’ve come to realize that my dependency is on a different level. Prior to becoming an influencer, I used to work as a producer and reporter. While shooting in primitive or remote parts of the world, I’d gesture/barter/talk in tongues to secure, like, a cup of cold coffee with dead bugs floating at the surface. Regardless of where I am, or what’s happening around me, I start the day with a jolt of caffeine because it just gives me a sense of normalcy.
What is your everyday skincare routine?
As a makeup junkie, I’ve shaved years off my life just perusing the aisles of Sephora, so you’d think I’d adhere to a meticulously applied, in-depth skincare routine, as well. Until about two years ago, though, I didn’t even own a daily moisturizer. I know — do as I say, not as I do – trust me. In getting older and wiser (better late than never, right?), and while collaborating with Olay on a couple of impactful projects, I began to incorporate their Regenerist Whip and Ultimate Eye Cream into my daily schedule. In addition to those two products, and in accordance with what I believe my skin is jonesing for at any given time, I’ve integrated masks, toners and brightening serums into my routine as well. With respect to everyday use, though, I keep it simple and opt for moisturizer and eye cream.
What have you been doing to incorporate “self-care” into your time at home?
I wish I could report that I’m the type of person who meditates in the morning, eats super cleanly and does at home workouts on my yoga mat. While I’m trying to incorporate healthier habits and outlets into my life, candidly, I’m not there yet. Aside from setting aside time to pray and to align myself with God (my spiritual relationship has always been extremely important to me), my version of self-care includes working to build out new digital media platforms that I’m passionate about launching, planning/preparing my content in advance, and organizing my apartment. Last weekend, I attended a virtual cocktail party with my girlfriends which was very therapeutic.
Where do you get your beauty products?
I get most of my beauty products at Sephora, Bloomingdales (they have a MAC counter, which Sephora doesn’t), CVS and Net-a-Porter.
How often do you try new products?
One of the perks of being a fashion and lifestyle blogger is that brands send out a great deal of gifting, so although I get to try out new products regularly, I’m also a creature of habit. That said, unless something really jumps out at me, I tend to stick to what I know works for me.
What qualities do you look for in skincare?
With respect to skincare, my primary objective is to ensure that the products I’m using contain high-quality ingredients. At this point in my life, I’m interested in options that keep my skin hydrated, contain anti-aging properties and brighten my [often] dull, dehydrated complexion.
What are three beauty products you cannot live without?
Oh God, only three?! I wish I was that girl, but I’m so not that girl. Okay, well, if I had to choose, I’d say a medium brown brow pencil (with a spoolie on the opposite end), Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, and Pixi-E Glow Tonic Cleansing Gel.
Give us a 5 minute skincare/makeup strategy for your next Zoom meeting or date.
My quarantine comfort zone falls somewhere between hot mess and full glam. As a general rule of thumb, though, I try to ensure that I look, at least, somewhat put together. To prep for a zoom call in five minutes or less, I start by moisturizing my face, as it helps the makeup to better emulsify into the skin. From there, I apply a light coat of foundation, run a pencil through my brows, put a bit of bronzer onto the areas where the sun hits my face, and use the Cover FX highlighter in “Moonlight” on my cheekbones.
What are your tips and tricks to keeping healthy, clear skin?
Regardless of what state I’m in, I force myself to wash my makeup off every night. Also, prior to getting married, I began to see Ildi Pekar, who’s a truly incredible esthetician, about two or three times a year. Her work gives my skin a reset and I always walk out of there inspired to drink more water.
Do you have any other beauty hacks you can share with us?
In order to feel my best, I swear by a good spray tan. While in quarantine, I’ve been using the Josie Maran self-tanning oil, which can be applied at home with a mit. In addition, Derma E’s Restoring Shampoo & Conditioner makes me feel like I’ve gone to the salon when I haven’t.
Can you share a recipe with us that you enjoy making at home?
Well, I learned how to make macaroni and cheese during my first week of quarantine, so let me know if you’re interested in that.
What is your favorite fashion trend right now?
Given the circumstances, I’m very into comfortable bralettes right now (Think Katie Holmes in that brown wool with the matching cardigan). Ordinarily, I probably would’ve paired mine with denim, heels, and a blazer, but since I’ve been working from home, I’ve been rocking the look with sweats, biker shorts, and/or my husband’s [oversized] button-ups.
Who are your top three favorite designers?
For editorial and artistic inspiration, Dior and the Row. As a more attainable option, I like Tibi – it’s an out of the box conservative that’s crafted by a genius.
What are three staple pieces in your closet you cannot live without?
Well-fitted, light denim jeans, a slightly oversized beige or white silk blouse, and a navy blue blazer with strong shoulders.
What advice do you have for keeping organized while staying busy?
For most of my life, I’ve actually been sort of a mess. In running my own business, though, I’ve found that it’s imperative to keep To-Do lists (If you struggle with finding these to be effective, look up Tony Robbins’ RPM Method – it’s a game changer), ensure that my apartment is clean/organized, and update my calendar every day.
Are you working on any exciting projects this year?
I am! I’m in the process of building out a couple of new platforms that will allow me to engage with my followers in a more personal, impactful and entertaining way. Although I enjoy styling outfits and taking street-style photos, I’ve always felt that my skill-set was more conducive to other mediums, so I’m hoping to establish a different dialogue.
Where do you live and what do you enjoy spending most of your time doing?
I live in New York City. Aside from spending time with my husband, family and friends, I like to work, write, shop, travel, talk and utilize resources (sermons, podcasts, books) to enhance my spiritual connection.
How did you start your career as an influencer?
Although I enjoyed my previous work as a reporter and producer, I started to feel creatively stifled when the company I worked for underwent a restructure. Instead of continuing to put a hundred percent of my energy into broadcasting, I began to focus on my other passions. Although I continued to work full-time for awhile, I bought a used camera at a store on Ninth Avenue and hired my dog walker to take photos of me on the weekends. When I left my job, I still didn’t believe that I could realistically make a living as a blogger, but in the midst of interviewing for other broadcast media positions, an agency reached out to me and I decided to give it a shot.
How do you develop inspiration and ideas for the great content you create?
I derive most of my inspiration from other every day women, different cultures that I’ve been fortunate enough to explore firsthand, as well as editorial spreads, editors, bloggers, etc.
How do you stay up to date with new fashion trends and beauty hacks?
I don’t. Once in a while, especially during Fashion Week, I browse through fashion magazines to see what’s happening on the runway, but for the most part, my personal style is a reflection of the past. When I incorporate something new and trendy into my wardrobe, I probably discovered it while perusing Instagram – again, I garner most of my inspiration from everyday women.
