BERGEN COUNTY’S GO-TO STYLIST LAUREN MATINA IS DITCHING FAST FASHION, TRANSFORMING REAL WARDROBES, AND PROVING ELEVATED STYLE STARTS AT HOME.
This Is What Style Looks Like Now
Fall for Style
Dear Readers,
There’s something about September that feels like a clean slate. It’s not quite summer, not quite fall—and that in-between energy makes it the perfect time to reset your space, your style, and maybe even your mindset.
One of the best parts of my job is working with the incredible small businesses that make the Ramapo Valley area such a standout place to live and shop. Whether you're upgrading your wardrobe, refreshing your home, or just hunting for a great local find, you don’t have to look far— trust me, I’ve done the legwork.
This issue is all about celebrating reinvention and confidence. Our cover star, Lauren Matina, embodies both. In Style, Reimagined (page 34), Lauren—local stylist, fashion pro, and all-around powerhouse—shares her journey and her downto-earth philosophy on making style both personal and practical. Whether you’re headed to a PTA meeting or a long-overdue night out, she proves that looking put together doesn’t mean dressing like someone else—it means showing up as the best version of yourself.
Speaking of powerful women, She Believed She Could, So She Did (page 26) tells the story of Ivy Harrington, Miss New Jersey USA 2025. Ivy made history—and headlines—by taking the crown at 30, proving that purpose and perseverance never go out of style. Her story is equal parts glamorous and grounded, just like her.
Next, for all our design lovers and creators: Designing the Dance of Joy (page 40) introduces you to a local designer with an eye for beauty and a heart for creating pieces that bring people together.
Finally, as the leaves start to turn, don’t miss Branch to Branch (page 20). This feature will get your yard (and you) prepped for fall with tips on seasonal pruning, planting, and making your outdoor space shine—no green thumb required.
Style isn't about chasing trends—it’s about choosing joy in the everyday.
Until next month,
September 2025
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kristin Kowalewski | Kristin.Kowalewski@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Carly Montalbano
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Hilary Russo
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City, Jessielyn Palumbo, Carlos Velez, Anthony M. Gomes, Elif Hajaluga, Johan Santos
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Proverbs 3:5-6
Ivy
How
The Woman Behind the Wardrobe After styling for brands like Net-a-Porter and Rent the Runway, Lauren Matina traded high-fashion campaigns for reallife transformations. Through her company, Novateur Style, she’s helping women across Bergen County and NYC rediscover confidence, clarity and creativity through
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Emmanuel Cancer Foundation 14th Annual Bash in Franklin Lakes 2: Laura Murtha, Sarah Cannon, Rae Barry showcasing auction items. 3: Riley Cannon, Gabby Yanowitz 4: Gabby Yanowitz, Riley Cannon, Caitlin Yanowitz, Sarah Cannon, Crista Mapes, Jane Ash, Jackie Merse, Laura Murtha, Rae Barry 5: Kujdes Gagliardi, John Gagliardi, Diane Sclafani, Meghan Rypkema, John Sclafani 6: Chloe Galgano, Jon Oliva, Jocelyn Kahn-Oliva 7: Jeff Gido, Wendy Gido, Arlene Vance, Meghan Gido, Bill Vance
Photography by Chloe Galgano
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IHA is dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders by challenging our impressive young women to develop their God-given talents for a future filled with endless possibilities. Find out why our extensive curriculum, artistic offerings, athletic teams, and Christian service programs are second to none.
Barre3 Franklin Lakes Grand Re-Opening
Barre3 Franklin Lakes celebrated its Grand Re-Opening this June with a ribbon-cutting attended by the mayor and a special blessing from Father Manolo. Free, full-capacity classes and raffles highlighted the weekend. Newcomers enjoyed exclusive membership offers, and the studio continues to welcome fresh faces with a complimentary first class. Whether you're seeking strength, cardio, or mindfulness, barre3 invites the community to experience its empowering and balanced approach to fitness in a welcoming, energizing space.
CAPITAL COMFORT
ARTICLE
A STYLISH GETAWAY, WHERE CULTURE MEETS CALM AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, PENTAGON CITY.
BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE RITZ-CARLTON, PENTAGON CITY
With clear skies, golden foliage, and a city steeped in history, a recent fall trip to Washington, D.C., offered the perfect mix of culture, comfort, and cuisine. The nation’s capital proved just as appealing in autumn as in spring, with vibrant parks and manageable crowds.
We stayed at The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City — a serene and stylish base for exploring the city. Located just minutes from downtown and directly above the Pentagon City Metro station, the hotel made navigating D.C. incredibly convenient. The rooms were spacious and elegant, featuring plush bedding, Italian marble bathrooms, and a Nespresso machine for an easy start to the day.
Our time in the city was spent walking through monuments and museums. The National Mall, lined with colorful trees, felt especially peaceful. We stopped by the Lincoln Memorial, admired the Capitol, and spent hours inside the Smithsonian museums. The cooler fall temperatures made walking from site to site enjoyable and refreshing.
Evenings were reserved for unwinding at the hotel. One standout was dinner at Santé, the on-site Mediterranean restaurant. With its cozy fireplace, warm lighting, and seasonal menu, it was the ideal place to relax after a day on our feet. The steak frites were to die for — my personal favorite — and the food overall was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The service matched the Ritz-Carlton’s reputation for polished, attentive hospitality.
When we weren’t exploring monuments or museums, we browsed the nearby shops at Pentagon Row and the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City. Just steps from the hotel, the area offered a relaxed way to spend an afternoon without venturing far. Whether grabbing a coffee or browsing bookstores, the ease of access added to the trip’s leisurely feel.
In the end, the getaway struck the right balance of activity and rest. Washington, D.C., brought the history, culture, and vibrant city energy, while The Ritz-Carlton provided a luxurious and calming retreat. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifth, there’s something about the city’s rhythm — especially in fall — that makes it feel both important and inviting.
If you’re looking for a destination that offers world-class museums, iconic landmarks, and a place to truly unwind, this D.C. itinerary might be just what you need.
For more information or to make a reservation visit ritzcarlton.com
BY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
NEW JERSEY CITY LIFESTYLE
GAR D E N S TATE
A signature cocktail for our September Style Issue
Refined, layered, and unmistakably New Jersey in its elegance and edge.
CONCEPT
Inspired by the rich tapestry of New Jersey’s landscapes — from the coastal charm of the Jersey Shore to the sophistication of Bergen and the historic charm of Hunterdon County — this cocktail captures the essence of early fall in the Garden State. It’s a drink that marries tradition with modern flair, offering a taste of New Jersey’s diverse and stylish spirit.
INGREDIENTS
1.5 oz Bourbon (warm base, rich and grounded — like Jersey heritage)
0.75 oz Fig syrup (earthy and luxe — a nod to fall and local harvest)
0.5 oz Amontillado sherry (dry elegance — layered like a perfect trench coat)
0.5 oz Lemon juice (zippy, modern contrast)
2 dashes black walnut bitters (depth and a hint of the unexpected)
Garnish: Brûléed fig half + sprig of rosemary (stylish, dramatic, editorial)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Shake all ingredients with ice until chilled.
2. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
3. Garnish with a brûléed fig half and rosemary — torch lightly for aroma and visual flair.
For more signature cocktails and recipes, follow us on Instagram: @newjerseycitylifestyle.
“STRUCTURED LIKE A BLAZER, SMOOTH LIKE SILK — THE GARDEN STATE GLAM IS YOUR SEPTEMBER IN A GLASS. IT’S FASHION
SEASON, AND NEW JERSEY’S GOT STYLE TO POUR.”
880
$1,395,
$1,060,000 $3,100,000 $2 215 000
$1,950,000
$1,300,000
$1,200,000
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAMAPO VALLEY CITY LIFESTYLE
ROOTED IN PASSION, GROWING WITH PURPOSE
BRANCH TO BRANCH
In Northern New Jersey, Branch to Branch Tree Service has earned a reputation for reliable, high-quality work and genuine customer care. Co-owned by Michael Fahy, a licensed tree care operator, and Amy Rapp, the company has grown from a small operation into a trusted name in both residential
That same grit carried him into tree care, where he began climbing freestyle in 2017 and quickly gained a reputation for his confidence and precision in the canopy.
In 2016, Fahy earned his tree care license in response to updated New Jersey regulations and took over the
“WE’VE SEEN TREES THAT MARKED SO MANY MILESTONES—FIRST BIRTHDAYS, BACKYARD
CELEBRATIONS, EVEN WEDDING DAYS.”
- MICHAEL FAHY
and commercial tree care—built on a foundation of expertise, integrity and strong community values.
Fahy’s start in the green industry came early. At just 13, he began mowing lawns in his neighborhood and eventually launched a landscaping business before he was old enough to drive. “I used to strap a plow to a three-wheeler to clear driveways,” he says, laughing.
tree division of an excavating company.
A year later, Rapp joined full-time, bringing vital organization and structure to the growing business. “She came on part-time, worked 40 hours the first week, and said, ‘This isn’t part-time,’” Fahy recalls. From there, the company expanded steadily, hiring team members who share their hands-on work ethic and customer-first mindset.
As fall approaches, Fahy offers seasonal advice for homeowners looking to maintain their trees and properties. “Autumn is ideal for pruning, thinning and shaping,” he says. “The trees are less stressed after summer, and with fewer leaves, we can clearly see the structure and remove any deadwood.” This not only improves aesthetics but helps trees conserve energy for winter and encourages healthy spring growth.
Branch to Branch also advocates for proactive maintenance—especially with the rise of unpredictable microstorms. “We’ve pulled trees off 12 homes in one town after a single fast-moving storm,” Fahy shares. “Preventative work reduces risk and extends the life of the tree.”
What truly sets the company apart, though, is its people-first approach. The team brings not only skill, but sensitivity—especially when removing trees with sentimental value. “You’re not just cutting wood,” Fahy explains. “Sometimes we’re taking down a tree where a family took first-day-of-school photos every year. That matters. We’ve seen trees that marked so many milestones—first birthdays, backyard celebrations, even wedding days. It’s an emotional process, and we always treat it with care.”
“AUTUMN IS IDEAL FOR PRUNING, THINNING, AND SHAPING.”
& Newborn Photography in Pompton Lakes,
Maria Rogers is a beloved figure in the community of Franklin Lakes, NJ. With over ten years of experience as a photographer, Maria has become the go-to Bergen County Newborn and Family Photographer for capturing life’s most precious moments in New Jersey. Her specialty is newborn photography, but she also takes pleasure in capturing the growth and changes of expectant mothers and families over time.
As a mother of three, Maria understands the importance of preserving a family’s legacy. Every moment shared together is a precious chapter in our story, and through photography, we can create a timeless record of our journey. These photographs become cherished memories that we can hold onto forever and share with future generations. For Maria, capturing a family’s legacy is not just a job, it’s a heartfelt mission to preserve the beauty and essence of family life for years to come.
Despite long hours, shifting regulations and the physical demands of the job, Fahy and Rapp remain dedicated to providing more than a service—they provide reassurance and respect, treating each property as if it were their own. “We want our customers to feel like they’re our only customer,” Fahy says. “That’s the heart of what we do.”
For seasonal tree care or a consultation, reach out to Branch to Branch Tree Service—a licensed, local team committed to excellence, safety and care.
BRANCH TO BRANCH TREE SERVICE 637 Wyckoff Ave, Suite 382, Wyckoff
(551) 777-0553 branchtobranchtreeservice.com
Family | Newborn | Maternity | Cake Smash | Fresh 48 | Holiday | And More
IVY HARRINGTON
Miss New Jersey USA 2025 shows it’s never too late to shine.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSIELYN PALUMBO, CARLOS VELEZ, ANTHONY M. GOMES
When Ivy Harrington was crowned Miss New Jersey USA 2025, she didn’t just claim a title—she affirmed a journey. At 30 years old, Harrington made history as the oldest titleholder the state has ever crowned, and with it, she’s redefining the narrative around beauty, purpose, and perseverance.
But for Harrington, the victory is just one moment in a much longer story—one that spans basketball courts, personal loss, self-discovery, and ultimately, public service.
Born and raised in Neptune, New Jersey, Harrington spent her college years at Morgan State University in Baltimore, where she played Division I basketball on a full athletic scholarship while majoring in broadcast journalism. It was there, in the quiet of her dorm room, that she stumbled across the Miss USA competition on TV—and something clicked.
“I remember watching in 2016 and again in 2017 when two African-American women from D.C. won back-to-back,” she says. “It wasn’t even the idea of winning that drew me in—it was seeing someone who looked like me succeed in that space. It planted a seed.”
Ivy Harrington and Gina Mellish
That spark of curiosity grew into research. She found that many women in media—Oprah, Diane Sawyer, Olivia Culpo—had pageantry in their backgrounds. So, she took a leap. By early 2018, she had connected with her pageant coach, Ciera Nicole of Crown Bound Pageant Consulting and began to train, balancing the intensity of the stage with the discipline she developed in sports.
Her first competition came in November 2019, just two months after the loss of her father. “It was chaotic. I was grieving. But pageantry gave me something constructive to focus on,” she shares.
That year, she didn’t win—but she didn’t stop. In 2022, she returned and placed in the top five. Then again in 2024. When the Miss Universe Organization lifted its age restrictions, allowing older contestants to compete, Harrington knew she had one last shot.
“I thought, ‘Do I need a grown-up hobby? Am I really still twirling at 30?’” she jokes. “But I couldn’t ignore that competitive fire in me. The only way I wasn’t going to win was if I didn’t show up.”
In 2025, she showed up—and won.
“Taking off that uniform can feel like losing part of who you are, I want them to understand their worth isn’t tied to a scoreboard. They’re allowed to pivot. They’re allowed to start over.” - Ivy Harrington
Alongside the crown, Harrington launched her mentorship program, MVP—Most Valuable Pivot. It’s built around one message: helping female student-athletes develop a personal identity beyond their sport. Through workshops, coaching, and school visits, she guides girls in seeing themselves as more than jersey numbers.
“Taking off that uniform can feel like losing part of who you are,” she notes. “I want them to understand their worth isn't tied to a scoreboard. They’re allowed to pivot. They’re allowed to start over.”
Pageantry, she says, shares a surprising amount with athletics: strategy, mental toughness, and physical endurance. It’s why she’s currently working on a campaign to bridge those two worlds—an idea to host an “MVP Pageant” with professional male athletes walking through the same competitions she does, from Q&As to stage presence.
“I want people to understand that this isn’t just about looking pretty,” she says. “It’s work. It’s grit. You’re literally putting yourself on a stage to be judged. That’s bravery.”
As she prepares for the national Miss USA competition later this year, Harrington feels focused—not frantic. “It’s funny. I’m not even nervous,” she explains. “I think that’s what happens when you finally know who you are.”
Her calm confidence has been supported by mentors, including Gina Mellish, Miss New Jersey USA 2020, who helped fine-tune everything from wardrobe to brand messaging. But Harrington’s most profound inspiration came from the late Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019.
“Cheslie was strong, athletic, intelligent—and real. She showed me the power of representation. But her tragic death also reminded me how important it is to protect your peace,” she shares. “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
That sentiment grounds her reign. She’s clear that her goal isn’t fame—it’s service.
“I want people to feel seen when they meet me,” she notes. “To take what they need, to feel like they belong too. This is about empowering others to find their voice, to pivot into their own purpose.”
Ten years ago, in 2014, Harrington tweeted that she dreamed of being on a magazine cover. This fall, that dream comes true— backed not by luck, but by years of hard work, heartache, and resilience.
“There’s no expiration date on your goals,” she explains. “This journey has taught me that it’s never too late to try something new, to start over, or to chase what lights you up.”
She smiles and sums it up simply: “Pivot into your purpose.”
GLAM SQUAD
Makeup @angelicamuanj
Hair @dameliocosmetics @bighoopenergybeauty
Styling @ginamellishconsulting
Style,
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHAN SANTOS
How Lauren Matina Is Redefining Personal Styling for the Modern Woman
Reimagined
After years in the world of glossy campaigns and editorial shoots, Lauren Matina added a new dimension to her business—bringing her expertise to real women. Through her business, Novateur Style, Matina is helping women across Bergen County and New York City reconnect with themselves through fashion. Whether it’s rediscovering personal style after becoming a mother, navigating a major life change, or simply evolving out of the post-pandemic sweatpants era, Matina’s approach is equal parts intuitive, intentional and deeply personal.
“I realized some of my most rewarding styling work was when I worked on TV shows like What Not to Wear and Born to Style, making over real women,” Matina shares.
“There are so many physical, emotional and spiritual changes we go through in life. Each chapter calls for a new version of yourself — and your wardrobe should reflect that.”
ROOTED IN REAL LIFE
Matina’s clients are often in a moment of transition — a new job, a baby, a breakup, a milestone birthday. She sees style as a tool for empowerment and reinvention.
“There’s a level of vulnerability in opening up your closet to a stranger,” she says. “It’s personal. But there’s a kind of magic that happens when a woman begins to see herself differently — more clearly — through clothes that fit who she is becoming.”
CLOSET CLEANSE, REIMAGINED
Matina’s signature service is her Closet Cleanse, a guided edit of a client’s existing wardrobe — and a powerful first step in her process. After an in-depth consultation to understand lifestyle, budget and goals, she and her team conduct a hands-on closet review: pulling pieces out by category, assessing what stays, what goes and what can be repurposed.
The result? A wardrobe that makes sense — and feels like you.
“I always say: I’m a stylist, not a closet organizer,” she stresses. “But I do believe in leaving things better than I found them. When we’re done, it’s not just cleaner — it’s curated.”
SUSTAINABILITY MEETS STYLE
Sustainability is a growing concern in the fashion world, and Matina integrates it naturally into her process. She encourages clients to invest in quality over quantity, to tailor rather than toss, and to consider secondhand and vintage options with fresh eyes.
“Your instinct might be to throw something out,” she says. “But a simple alteration or a visit to a shoe repair shop could give it new life.”
She also partners with designers like Esque/By, a brand known for custom upcycled pieces — turning something old into something one-of-a-kind.
“THERE ARE SO MANY PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL CHANGES WE GO THROUGH IN LIFE. EACH CHAPTER CALLS FOR A NEW VERSION OF YOURSELF - AND YOUR WARDROBE SHOULD REFLECT THAT.”
- LAUREN MATINA
A VIP EXPERIENCE
For those ready for a wardrobe refresh, Matina offers a VIP Shopping Experience. Unlike traditional personal shopping, this isn’t a quick trip to the mall.
She and her assistant pre-pull looks, liaise with in-store personal shoppers, and create a luxury environment tailored to each client. “You walk in and everything’s done for you — curated, prepped, and ready to try,” she explains.
IN-HOME STYLING: THE SECRET WEAPON
Perhaps one of her most impactful services is in-home styling. Rather than buying something new, Matina works with what clients already own — reimagining and restyling outfits with a fresh eye.
“It’s about uncovering new ways to wear what you already love,” she says. “It’s exciting for clients when they have that moment of, Oh, I never thought to wear it like that.”
FASHION PHILOSOPHY
Her styling philosophy is simple: Leave no stone unturned.
“Is this really the best dress for the occasion? Can the hem be taken up? Is there another way to wear this piece?” she shares. “I believe in pushing a little further — there’s always more possibility.”
And most importantly? Style should be fun.
“We’re all juggling careers, families, responsibilities. This is the part that gets to be about you.”
TIMELESS STAPLES FOR FALL
This season, Matina’s must-haves include a great-fitting pair of jeans in multiple washes, a statement coat or blazer, and one quality pair of boots.
“These are foundation pieces that will carry you through the season and beyond,” she notes. “Invest in quality, and you’ll wear them again and again.”
A LIFE IN STYLE
Matina’s career has been anything but linear — and that’s what makes her so dynamic. From styling on-set for VH1 and MTV in the early 2000s to serving as a market editor at Better Homes & Gardens, she’s seen every side of the industry.
At just 27, she was integral to running production for FYI Network’s Born to Style , managing scripts, scouting locations and styling on-air talent — all at once.
“There was no ‘try,’ there was only ‘do,’” she says. “I learned how to deliver under pressure — and deliver results.”
That same high standard shows up in everything she does today.
FINAL WORD
Asked for her best advice for anyone looking to elevate their everyday style?
“Start small, and aim for quality. Building a wardrobe takes time — but when you get it right, it changes how you show up in the world.”
For more information visit novateurstyle.com . Style Credits:
Creative Direction - Justine Santaniello
Photographer - Johan Santos
Make Up - Lexie Arruti
Hair Styling - Taline Romeo Moxie Englewood
Hair Colorist - Danielle Estes
Nails - Milan Nails
Experience the Art of Pasta
At Piatto Di Pasta, where we take pride in offering a premier cooking experience focused on the art of fresh pasta-making. Our engaging classes and workshops are expertly designed to empower you to create authentic Italian dishes with ease in your own kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday, hosting a bachelorette party, or enjoying quality time with friends and family, our hands-on approach will elevate your culinary skills to new heights. Join us and confidently embark on an enriching journey into the delightful world of Italian cuisine!
Birthday Parties • Bachelorette Parties Anniversaries • Kids’ Pizza Parties • Team Building • In-person Instruction
DESIGNING THE DANCE OF Joy
ARTICLE BY HILARY RUSSO PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIF HAJALUGA
At 26 years old, Michael Sun speaks through color and creativity. A local young man with Down syndrome, his quiet spirit shines in vibrant crayon strokes and elaborate sketches — especially of gowns. His drawings reflect an imagination full of elegance and joy.
One of those sketches is now more than art. It’s a symbol of healing, resilience and the power of community.
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted Michael’s world. Like many in the special needs community, the sudden loss of routine, therapy and connection deeply affected him.
“He was a happy child, always creating,” says his father, John Sun. “But during the pandemic, he lost interest in everything — even drawing. He refused to leave the house.”
That changed after a chance meeting at a vendor fair hosted by William Paterson University. John met Elif Hajaluga, a speech-language pathologist and co-owner of All 4 Therapy in Fair Lawn.
“After Michael’s first session, they stopped at CVS and he asked for crayons,” Hajaluga says. “That moment marked the return of his creativity.”
A YOUNG MAN’S JOURNEY FROM CRAYON TO COUTURE
Michael Sun and his designs!
Soon, Michael was drawing again — mostly dresses. His sketches were intricate, expressive and inspired by celebrities, Disney characters and ballroom dancers. Hajaluga proudly hangs them in her office. Over time, his drawings have become an emotional outlet.
“Drawing gives him control and a safe space to express himself,” she says. “It’s been both healing and empowering.”
But Hajaluga saw something more: the chance to bring one of Michael’s creations to life.
Through a mutual friend, she connected with Aideen Gannon, a recent fashion design graduate from Griffith College in Ireland. Now working in childcare, Gannon has a background in sewing and patternmaking — and a love for creative projects.
“When I saw Michael’s drawings, they reminded me of princess dresses,” Gannon says. “I loved the colors and shapes he used.”
Michael chose a short dress in blue and green with a mesh overlay — the same colors as All 4 Therapy’s logo.
“I think in his own way, Michael was connecting it back to the place where he felt safe again,” Hajaluga says.
Gannon worked behind the scenes to turn the design into a real dress, sparking ideas for the future — including lending the gown to high school students for prom.
But for Michael, the dress is about something deeper. It represents his return to creativity and the community that championed his voice.
A special celebration is in the works, where the dress will be unveiled in front of family, friends and the therapists who believe in him.
“This isn’t just about fashion,” Hajaluga says. “It’s about honoring who Michael is. This is his moment.”
For John Sun, the journey has been emotional.
“DRAWING GIVES HIM control AND A SAFE SPACE TO express himself.”
—ELIF HAJALUGA
“When Michael draws, it’s how I see what he’s thinking,” he says. “Each stroke is like a thread weaving something beautiful from within.”
A dress imagined by Michael, sewn with love and worn by hope — proof that creativity speaks volumes, every voice matters, and when you can… dance.
Hilary Russo is a trauma-informed holistic practitioner, health coach, journalist, international speaker, and author. She is one of only 50 Certified Havening Techniques® Trainers worldwide and a certified practitioner of this neuroscience-based method. With a background in media and the military, Hilary brings first-hand insight to her work with clients facing secondary trauma, stress, and burnout. Her globally top-rated podcast, HIListically Speaking® (top 1.5%), features inspiring conversations with leading voices in holistic health, wellness, and neuroscience. Connect with Hilary at www.hilaryrusso.com or on social media @hilaryrusso.
Hilary Russo
