Mélanie Masarin on Dry Shampoo & Loewe Sunnies
Plus, where the Ghia founder power-lunches in Paris.
Hi friends :)
Idk about you, but spring fever is hitting hard this year; I simply have to spend 30-40% of my day outside these days or I’ll explode. Part of this is of course thanks to Barney, who unapologetically insists on walks every hour and a half.
Last Friday was my birthday, and although I’m not the world’s biggest bday gal, overall it was a very good one. Highly recommend having one of your high school besties visit and doing and low-key drinks (one thing I have learned with age is that low-key >>>>).
Which leads me to remind you that the Gatekeeping Birthday Sale is over halfway over! Through the end of April, get 20% off all subscriptions—that means monthly subs are just $4, and annual is just $40. Don’t miss it!
Now for the main event! This week’s guest is
, the founder and CEO of the non-alcoholic aperitif company Ghia. Non-alc spirits are having a moment, and Ghia is at the forefront of it, both with their original aperitif and Le Spritz. Mélanie’s CV is crazy-impressive (Glossier! Dig Inn!), and her taste is exquisite. Her picks, below.Meet the Gatekeeper:
Name: Mélanie Masarin
Calls home: Los Angeles
In a nutshell: Curious, adventurous, hyperactive!
What was the last great meal you ate?
I just had lunch at Le Mermoz in Paris with a friend. We had the prettiest asparagus, a daurade and a cooked down eggplant with miso—lots of beautiful flowering herbs. It tasted like spring! This spot is unassuming but one of my faves for a power lunch in Paris.
What was the last link you sent someone?
Someone on the street asked me where my sunglasses were from so I sent them this link from Net-a-Porter!
What is the seemingly random product you can’t stop talking about?
Theraplush from Soft Services made my hands so soft and smooth in just a month! It’s beautiful and because it stays on my nightstand I actually think to use it.
What’s the item you wear most in your closet?
My pair of Tove Studio jeans. They’re the perfect shape and color, and L.A. is pretty casual so I’ve been wearing them a lot.
What’s your favorite place to shop?
I actually really don’t like going into stores, unless I’m in Paris. I never have time when I’m in the U.S. so I end up ordering everything only. Something about the experience in Paris feels a lot more leisurely and familiar! I shop when I travel.
What’s your current beauty obsession?
The Crown Affair Dry Shampoo. I can’t believe I used to use aerosols, whoops! If I do my hair, it pretty much keeps my blowout for a whole week. Life-changing!
What place is on your travel bucket list?
I really want to see the Northern Lights in Iceland because it’s such a unique experience and the topography seems really different from what I’ve seen. And I really want to ski in the Dolomites and have wanted to go to Forestis since it opened!
What’s your current favorite bev?
GHIA! It’s of course more of an aperitivo but I also use it to curb my 3 PM slump. It’s dry and as such a great palate cleanser.
BTW, I want to shout out former Gatekeeping guest Alyse Whitney, whose cookbook, Big Dip Energy, was released on Tuesday. Mazel tov, Alyse!!