Mikayla Durham

Mikayla Durham, a student studying political science at The New School shares some recommendations for books, pizza, and other things to do around the city. Get inspired and see how she styles the Mismatched Fold Earrings, Pleat Crystal Earrings, Delphinium Ring and Lolita Necklace.

Where did you grow up? 

I grew up in Winston-Salem, NC.

One thing you miss about Winston-Salem/one thing you do not miss? 

One thing I definitely miss about Winston-Salem is the people there. There are very few bad eggs that I’ve come across and I feel like everyone in that town does not have an ulterior motive, they do things from the bottom of their heart. One thing I don’t miss is on the weekends having to search far and wide for something to do or doing the same things over and over again.

How would you describe your style? 

I like to make use of a lot of basics and take pieces that I have in my closet and always make something new out of them. I don't think I accompany a specific style, it’s always changing - changing with the season or changing with the atmosphere around me. I like to assimilate to those changes.

Do you have any routines or something you do everyday? 

I make my bed every single morning, I have to.

 

What is one thing you carry with you at all times?

I always have a purse at all times, no matter what I’m wearing I can always find a purse that will match my outfit. To get more specific I would say Rosebud Salve lip balm, have to have that with me at all times.

If you could only wear one type of jewelry for the rest of your life, what would you pick?

110% earrings, I wear earrings everywhere I go. I wear them to workout, I wear them to bed, I wear them in the shower, everywhere.

What is giving you energy at the moment? 

The nature of NYC right now. You walk outside and it’s like everyone is happy. Being able to soak up the sun in the parks and seeing so many people just sitting outside enjoying nature, not being on their phones and unplugging. It’s really contagious, that feeling.

 

What do you like to do first thing in the morning? 

First thing in the morning? I make my bed. But if it wasn’t that, I like to pick out my outfit.

If you could recommend one place to go in NY, what would it be?

Riverside Park is really nice or Y7 Studio if you want a non-traditional hot yoga experience. Also the Union Square farmers market, it has such good stuff and so does Artists and Fleas at Chelsea Market.

 

Favorite new hobby? 

Pickleball! Also, yoga isn't new but I've definitely taken on yoga more, I’m trying to grow my practice into something bigger than just going to class every so often. 

 Best pizza spot in NY?

For me it's Bleecker Street Pizza, hands down.

 If you could recommend 3 books what would they be?

1. Three Women by Lisa Taddeo
2. I'm Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown
3. Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson 

 

One thing you would like to do more of?

I actually would like to do more reading. I feel like I do have the time to read but I don't really prioritize that time. There are so many good books, I have a laundry list of books that I want to get through and the space for authors is constantly growing and I feel like the content of books right now is so rich.

Mikayla wears the Mismatched Fold Earrings, Inside Out Pearl Drop Earrings, Delphinium Ring, and the Lolita Pendant Necklace.