How a Well+Good Travel and Style Editor *Really* Spends Her Day
For an inside look at the activities that fill her (meticulously color-coded) schedule, we teamed up with Shinola—the brand behind expertly crafted (and busy-woman friendly) essentials like leather goods and watches—to take you behind the scenes of a typical work day in the Well+Good offices, stylish touches and almond milk latte breaks included.
Our tour guide? Senior editor Jordan Galloway, starting with her morning bike ride to Well+Good HQ and ending with an afternoon press event (plus all the hustle in between).
Keep reading for a photo diary of what a Well+Good editor gets up to in one day (pics or it didn't happen, right?) and for Galloway's tips on showcasing your personal style no matter what your day throws at you.
Scroll down to see what a day in the life of a style editor really looks like.
8:30 AM: Getting dressed and biking to work
First of all, as a style editor how would you describe your own personal style?
I think figuring out the silhouettes that are the most flattering for your frame is the first step toward developing a personal style. I consider myself a minimalist when it comes to my wardrobe. I pretty much wear the same uniform every day: high-waisted pants or leggings and a crew neck T-shirt, shrunken sweatshirt, or sweater depending on the season. I focus on finding clothing that’s simple, well-crafted, and can be worn all day.
"I focus on finding clothing that’s simple, well-crafted, and can be worn all day."
Then, I switch out my accessories, like sneakers for leather boots or slip-ons; my motorcycle jacket for a denim one or a blazer, to fit the setting. The majority of my wardrobe is black and white, but I’ll wear denim on denim or a neutral tone, like grey or navy, from head to toe occasionally as well.
How often do you bike to work? How does that affect your accessorizing decisions?
Every day, I bike from my home in Brooklyn to my office in Manhattan, with a stop at my Pilates studio for a workout in between. I’ll bike in heels, boots, sneakers. The majority of the time, I bring a leather backpack—I prefer a style with a top handle so that I can slip it over my handlebars while I’m riding, then hold it like a purse when I’m off my bike.
9:30 AM: Arriving at her desk and taking an almond milk latte break
Walk me through your typical work day.
I like to arrive at the office early, have a cup of coffee, and start sorting through my inbox. I oversee style, fitness, and travel content for Well+Good, so my days typically involve signing off on options for fashion round-ups, pulling artwork, and publishing articles. Some days are more about meetings and desk-side interviews, or brainstorming story ideas and assigning content to writers.
What do you wear to work on an average work day?
I work out every morning, so I typically turn up at the office wearing my sneakers, black high-waisted, matte leggings, and a white T-shirt. I’d say that’s my signature look both in and out of the office—I just might swap my leggings for a pair of jeans. Depending on what meetings or events I have on my calendar, I might bring boots or heels to switch into, or keep my sneakers on and pull on a blazer or my leather jacket.
11:30 AM: Participating in a brainstorm meeting
What are your go-to items to stay organized at work?
Even though I work in digital, I still prefer to keep track of my thoughts on pen and paper, so my go-to items for staying organized are a notebook and a brass ballpoint pen I “borrowed” from my father eight years ago when I moved to New York. There’s a lot of exciting new projects in the works at Well+Good right now, and so it helps to have a place to keep track of all the cool ideas that come up.
What projects are you currently working on?
We launched our Good Travel section of the site last spring, and right now I’m working on a series of healthy travel guides to wellness destinations like Bali, Japan, and Portugal. The thing about working in digital publishing is that it’s dynamic and fast-paced, so you’re constantly being inspired and challenged.
2:00 PM: Walking to a press event
How do you usually dress for a busier work day when you’re attending important meetings or press events?
I don’t really alter my style to suit an occasion, outside of my accessories. I find the best thing you can bring to an important meeting or event is confidence and your full attention. Not having to worry about whether or not my outfit looks good allows me to bring my best self to the table.
"I find the best thing you can bring to an important meeting or event is confidence and your full attention."
What’s your thought process when picking out your accessories for the day?
I gravitate toward transitional items that look appropriate in multiple settings. I like timeless pieces—a classic watch or a crossbody bag that I can fit the strap inside and carry as a clutch, for example.
6:00 PM: Heading out of the city for the weekend
Shinola Large Carryall; Statement Signet Ring with Lapis; The Canfield 38 MM watch
Speaking of travel, do you prefer to travel light, or pack your bag with everything for just-in-case scenarios?
When it comes to packing, I prefer to carry as few items as possible, so it’s important that everything that makes it into my bag is versatile. I’ve taken long-weekend trips to Italy with only my backpack, and spent a month in Europe living out of my carry-on. I find that I have more fun and can do more things when I’m not weighed down (literally) by overstuffed luggage. And, by keeping my life to only the essentials, there’s less of a chance I forget anything important.
"I find that I have more fun and can do more things when I’m not weighed down (literally) by overstuffed luggage."
What do you always have in your bag?
Things I always have in my bag: keys, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a mini tire pump for my bike.
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In partnership with Shinola
Photos: Tim Gibson for Well+Good
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