Change often arrives without warning, disrupting our routines and challenging our sense of stability. However, these moments of unexpected change can be blessings in disguise. They push us to grow, learn, and transform in ways we never imagined. By embracing change we are reminded that life’s twists and turns often lead us to the most fulfilling experiences — ones we didn’t know we’re capable of achieving in the first place. This is exactly how our latest Cool Face of Bastet Noir is embracing the unknown, and leading by example.
Elizabeth Gulino is a dedicated freelance journalist and writer. She has contributed her talents to esteemed platforms such as Refinery29 for the past four and a half years, as well as House Beautiful, Men’s Journal, Complex, and The Hollywood Reporter. Over her career-span, Elizabeth has immersed herself in the world of storytelling, focusing on important topics like health, wellness, relationships, work, finances, and the intricacies of modern lifestyle. Her passion for these subjects shines through in her sincere and personal writing, making her a trusted voice in the industry. Keep on reading to get to know Elizabeth a bit better and get inspired by her story.
Elizabeth Gulino is wearing The Sara Blazer and The Sara Bustier, custom-made for her
Who is Elizabeth Gulino?
Elizabeth Gulino is a writer, a friend, a sister, a partner, a reality TV lover… and a lot of other things that I’m still trying to figure out! I like to think that while I’ve always been the same person I’m also capable of change, and I’m looking forward to seeing who else I become in the future.
What’s your morning routine like?
To be totally honest, I’m not a morning person. I’ve never tried to be, I’ve never wanted to be. I usually just roll out of bed, stretch a bit, and begin my work day. I check all the notifications and emails that came in from last night and assess what I need to tackle first, and immediately pour myself a glass of cold brew from Trader Joe’s. Then, I’ll eat breakfast (usually some form of eggs on toast) and try to get outside. As someone who’s been working mainly remote for their career, I don’t really need a strictly structured morning because I’m not racing to make it into an office.
What was the pivotal moment that led you to the decision to become a writer?
I don’t think there was one specific moment. I’ve always enjoyed writing — I even won a scary story contest in the third grade — and reading, especially magazines. Although I graduated with a degree in Integrated Marketing Communications, all of the extracurriculars I participated in had to do with writing, editing, or creating some kind of content. I had kind of been gathering this portfolio of clips and experiences through my involvement with on campus publications as well as my internships, so it was a seamless transition post grad to an editorial position. Before my first internship I didn’t really think that writing or working for a magazine would be something I could do, but that experience changed everything for me.
What would you say is the most important attribute to have for aspiring writers/editors trying to get their foot through the door?
One of the most important attributes for aspiring writers and editors is to always say yes — if you’re getting compensated, of course. There’s no job or task or writing assignment that’s below you, especially when you’re first starting out, and gathering up any kind of experience will only help you in the future.
Elizabeth Gulino is wearing The Sara Blazer and The Sara Bustier, custom-made for her
Three things you wish you knew before starting out?
Biggest setback in life and what you’ve learned from it?
I think right now — at least professionally — I’m currently going through it! I recently lost my job as a senior writer at Refinery29 during a big round of layoffs at Vice at the end of February. Now, I’m picking up some freelance work and just seeing where things take me. Ideally I’d like to get back on staff at a publication, but I’m learning more about myself and the freelancing world each day — I’m also giving myself some much-needed grace, and spending some days just walking around and enjoying this time without a 9-to-5.
So far, I’ve learned that networking and forming relationships with people in my industry has been incredibly valuable. Whether they work in public relations or are writers and editors themselves, I’ve had a lot of people reach out to me to offer advice, their condolences, and even jobs. I’m very grateful for that.
Books that changed your life
A book that recently changed my life was She Said by Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, the two journalists who broke the story of the multiple sexual abuse allegations against Harvey Weinstein. It’s been on my TBR list for a while now but I just recently dove into it. The book tells the story of how the investigation came to be, and it was a really eye opening read. I was a student during the #MeToo movement and I loved reading their journey to telling such an important story. While a story of that scale is monumental and a ton of work to get out into the world, it’s inspiring to me as a writer and a journalist because I hope to create meaningful change with my work — even if it’s on a much smaller scale — and I look up to both of those women immensely.
I think a lot of really good fiction books, such as The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo or Normal People, have also changed my life, not because of their message necessarily but because they made me realize that I’d love to write a novel someday.
Favorite female empowerment speech
I have a thing for acceptance speeches at award shows, and one of my favorites is Frances McDormand’s speech when she won the Oscar for Best Actress in 2019. During it, she asked all the women nominees to stand with her for a round of applause and recognition. It wasn’t necessarily a long speech, but it’s one I seem to think of often.
What’s in your Bastet Noir cart?
It’s almost time for dress season, so I’ve been eyeing The Eileen Dress — I love that it can be dressed up or down for any occasion!
If you liked Elizabeth’s story, there’s plenty more to come, just hit that sign up button to get in our inner circle of coolness and shop sustainable Bastet Noir dresses — zero waste and custom made.