When Monica Corcoran Harel launched Pretty Ripe during the pandemic, it was more than a platform—it was a lifeline. “Magazines and marketers weren’t talking about how messy midlife gets—and it’s such a pivotal time for women,” says the former journalist turned screenwriter. Pretty Ripe quickly evolved into something bigger: a sold-out retreat at Alisal Ranch focused on reinvention, friendship and figuring out “our next moves when it comes to work, relationships and even self-care.”
Her style? Think “retro-classic wanna-be heiress from the ’70s,” with a wardrobe built around vintage Gucci loafers, DVF wrap dresses and slouchy sweaters. “There is no such thing as ‘effortless style’ in my opinion,” she says, “but I always want to look like I didn’t try that hard to get dressed.” She finds magic in the racks at Silver Lake’s Wasteland and Recess on La Brea, where she treasure hunts with her daughter Tess. “I can shop eBay for 24 hours straight,” she adds.
This September, she’ll return to Alisal with a powerhouse retreat lineup including Dr. Jessica Wu and Dr. Jessica Zucker. And on the Hollywood front, she has a Netflix movie in the works and is developing a TV show with her daughter. “We’re laughing through it,” Corcoran Harel says. “And that’s everything.”
I live for a sizable statement wallet that can almost double as a clutch. My BVLGARI Serpenti Forever in this lush green tricks me into thinking I have more money in my 401k than I actually do. BVLGARI Serpenti Forever large wallet in green, bulgari.com
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I adore jumpsuits, but they can veer shapeless. These jumpsuits by Lee are cut to the body with an elastic waist, so you're not swallowed by fabric. They zip up easily in seconds too. I have four of them in various washes of denim and dress them down with SeaVees sneakers or jazz them up with sparkly Saint Laurent pumps and big bold gold jewelry. Lee Union-Alls, lee.com
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I have more than ten pieces—dresses, shirts, pants and skirts—by Natalie Martin in my closet. All of them are in one particular floral print. Her pieces are super WOW yet wearable. I put on a dress and feel like a woman who can change the energy in a room. Natalie Martin Monica dress, nataliemartin.com
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This amazing nonprofit based in New York is my secret source for pre-loved designer bags by Chanel, Prada, Chloe and Bottega Veneta. You can nab purses for more than 70% off and 100% support HIV care and research at the same time. Win-win! Housing Works, eshop.housingworks.org
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I have a thing for cherries, ahem, the Pretty Ripe logo and these dangling earrings look so sweet and vibrant. The brand also partners with non-profits and supports causes that supportwomen. Oh, and the adorable diamond mushrooms are really popular with my pals who micro-dose. The Fete Cherries earrings, thefete.com
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I might be that annoying woman who refers to yoga as her practice. However, I do make time for hot yoga every morning or night because it keeps me strong and sane. This studio on Larchmont dates back to 1967, and the vibe is warm and friendly. Center for Yoga, centerforyogala.com
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When I faithfully use Retrouvé, I literally get compliments like "you have gorgeous skin!" from strangers on the street. The sumptuous products are an investment, but my face is my "it bag" so I have to take care of it.â Retrouvé Intensive Replenishing facial moisturizer, retrouve.com
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I bought my first pair of these super cool, cult leggings seven years ago, and they still look new. (Now, I own six pairs. FYI: they run small.) Opt for the high-waisted ones, which look great with just a sports bra. Sometimes, I wear them with heels and an oversize preppy Oxford shirt too. Ultracor Serpent ultra-high leggings lux in Nero, ultracor.com
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