Nicole Pollard Bayme, founder and CEO of LaLaLuxe, is a Los Angeles stylist known for her ability to get anything—from the rarest Hermes Birkin bag to a Mig fighter jet—for her clients. Nicole recently branched out into the health and wellness industry with the launch of Bikini Cleanse, a 7-day weight loss system that makes slimming down before a big event a breeze. We recently sat down with Nicole to discuss what she loves about LA, where she shops in LA, and what she recommends for those visiting Los Angeles for a few days.
What do you recommend packing for a trip to LA this summer?
To me, LA is all about easy beach living, so I’d start by packing a Missoni knit bikini, Kiss My Face Sun Spray Lotion, a floppy hat, and maxi dresses that can go from daytime to after dark with a change of footwear. Think jeweled sandals by day and sky high heels at night. Everyone drives in LA, so you don’t have to worry if you can’t walk more than a few steps in them! And no one should ever come to LA without a great jacket to throw on at sunset. We have very little humidity so it gets chilly when the sun goes down. If you forgot to pack any of those, stop by Kitson on the way from LAX to your hotel.
Where can visitors to LA shop like a celebrity without breaking the bank?
There are so many amazing boutiques in Los Angeles. A few of my favorites are Kelly Wearstler’s flagship store on Melrose for the most amazing and unique accessories; Ron Robinson and Hip’tique in Santa Monica for of-the-moment basics; Planet Blue for luxe bohemian pieces; Curve on Robertson for sophisticated, city-girl items; and C by Karina for sunglasses. I’d also recommend checking out Maxfield—it’s an LA institution—as well as the new The Row store on Melrose Place—It has a pool!
What are the hottest looks in LA this summer?
LA is such a casual city, so the look is all about effortlessness. Right now, I’m loving the look of cropped, distressed denim with a pair of single sole pumps and a digital print top. Think Peter Pilotto or Mary Katrantzou. Top it off with a great pair of sunglasses, a statement bag and one really eye-catching piece of jewelry. A great place to shop for this look is Elyse Walker in Pacific Palisades.
You have been seen wearing everything from a crocodile Birkin to vintage YSL. What are the hottest bags in LA right now?
I love Philip Lim’s Pashli Mini Satchel as a casual cross-body that works for everything from running errands to hitting a beachside happy hour. Birkins are of course the ultimate daytime handbag, but I also love the Balenciaga Work Bag in black with rose gold hardware as an everyday carryall. For an edgier look, try the Givenchy Lucrezia bag with chain detailing. And for evening, Alexander McQueen’s Book Clutch is a must.
What do you enjoy doing in LA when you are not working?
Going paddle boarding is one of my favorite ways to relax, and something everyone should try in LA. There are a lot of place where you can rent a board, and once you are on the water you get to enjoy marvelous ocean views, get up close to dolphins and sea lions, and still get an incredible core workout. Check out Poseidon in Santa Monica, which is run by a fellow graduates of Malibu High School, and tell them Nicole sent you.
You recently launched Bikini Cleanse, what was your inspiration for this product?
After working with people from all walks of life, the thing I noticed that’s no different whether you’re royalty or a regular person is that we all struggle with balance, especially if you’re like me and enjoy indulging in all the wonderful things that life has to offer.
I myself have struggled with feeling chubby and wanting to shed excess weight quickly before a big event, which is exactly why I developed Bikini Cleanse.
The seed for Bikini Cleanse was planted when my boyfriend (now husband) surprised me with a last-minute trip to Hawaii. I didn’t feel bikini-ready in the least, so I came up with a 7-day cleanse to get in shape for the trip and it worked! After that, I began developing Bikini Cleanse on a larger scale so I could share it with others.
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