Be the one who nurtures and builds. Be the one who has an understanding and a forgiving heart, one who looks for the best in people. Leave people better than you found them.

Toast yourself for the bravery you possess. Yes, that’s right. Toast yourself. Wherever you are, no matter who you are with or without. The moment is now.

Frock: buy it here // Fizz: find the recipe here

It’s hard not to be aware of The Great Gatsby. The book, of course, and now the upcoming film starring Carey Mulligan. Check out the simply beautiful June 2013 UK issue of Harper’s Bazaar.

My brother’s girlfriend gifted me Cally Blackman’s 100 Years of Fashion. The book is a perfect piece of coffee table decor, yet I can’t seem to put it down.

Oh, and speaking of Gatsby. Lady Gatsby needs to be on your radar. The exclusive bath and body boutique based in Los Angeles offers handmade all-natural soaps, scrubs, creams and more. Martha, the Lady behind Gatsby, is as lovely as her creations.

Whenever I’ve celebrated Cinco de Mayo, it has always been from California. Of course, I find myself in New York City this weekend, with my first friend in life coming to town for a visit. What better reason to try a tequila or two? Here’s to celebrating over thirty years of best friendship and the cinco-of-it-all, too!

Original recipe and image first published here.

P.S. Later this summer, I’ll share photos of the soon-to-be Tuscan style outdoor dining experience which is currently underway at this lovely location.

Photos courtesy of Christine Carley

The in-between weather on the East Coast has me wearing a casual mix of dots and spots in malleable textures. The combination makes for a stylish first impression without compromising comfort.

Shirt: Bella Dahl / Pants: Free People / Shoes: Zara (old) but similar here

Image Credits: Joey Graham

Click here to learn more about this hand-painted buttercream cake.

Image Credits: 1. Vogue Thailand 2. Anthropologie 3. Pinterest

How would describe your style and design aesthetic?

I’d describe my style as urban chic. It’s a bit over-the-top and a bit edgy, but always fun. I like to be just a step ahead and I’m not afraid of bright colors or crazy patterns. I work on television so I like to make visual statements.

Where do you draw from for style inspiration?

I get inspired by traveling the world, walking the streets, people watching and style checkin’. My favorite cities to peep gear game are Moscow, London, New York, Paris, Los Angeles, Madrid, Rio De Janeiro and Topeka, Kansas.

Any Hollywood style icons that stand out?

My favorite old school style icon is Steve McQueen. He was always fashion forward yet uniquely classic Americana while always remaining very manly. My favorite new school style icon is Russell Westbrook. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard don’t give a frack! He rocks what he wants with reckless but stylish abandon.

Perfect menswear for the red carpet? Which male actor is killing it right now?

A black tux or suit always unless you’ve been nominated to pick up a surf board at the Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice Awards. Right now my main man Justin Timberlake be red carpet fresh to death on the regular. His style game is winning.

What wardrobe piece should every man own?

A blue navy suit. Period. Point blank. End of story. For starters to affordable, check out J. Crew and Hugo Boss. And, if you’re ballin’, hit up Burberry.

If you are going to invest in something, what is it?

A timeless time piece. A nice watch makes a huge statement.

You’re an on-air personality, interviewing Hollywood’s most famous faces. How does all of that influence what you wear?

First off, I want to look fresh to death. Most A-list actors and actresses have stylists and come looking super crisp and fashion forward. Secondly, I’m the fun part of the newscast. Gotta bring the swag. And, thirdly, if you look sharp, the talent will treat you more like an equal than some crazed fan or deranged blogger.

You call Kansas City home and spend a large part of your time between New York City and Los Angeles. Which city is your favorite?

I can’t choose! They all have so many positives and cool shop spots. I hit areas. Not specific stores. I love shopping in SoHo in New York and on Robertson in Los Angeles.

When you aren’t interviewing movie stars, you are…?

Partying. I love DJs. They are the new rock stars. I’m always on the hunt to check out hot DJs. I also do a little DJing myself. I’m not that good but I entertain myself.

What is the best advice you received?

It’s always about the money. Thanks Grandpa. Great advice. And so true.

You never leave home without?

My American Express card.

What will never go out of style?

A buttoned-down white shirt.

What stands out in your mind as being a wow-that-magic-just-happened-in-my-career-moment? 

When I walked into a Blockbuster with my girlfriend to rent a movie and saw my name on The Ladies Man DVD. I was like, “OK, this is cool.” Been a wild and fantastic ride ever since!

Photos courtesy of Shawn Edwards

Note: this interview has been edited