Red Hot Monde Magazine May/June 2025 Editor's Choice Edition
Dr. Brei’s doctoral studies at the prestigious University of Toronto’s Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry department encompassed both water and microbiome research. With this robust research insight and deep perspective into the microbial world, Dr. Brei established a uniquely powerful foundation for her skin care research. Today, Dr. Brei lives in Toronto Canada with her husband and two children. NuVsio Minerals Support a Healthy Skin Microbiome by providing a ‘Second Skin’ protective layer against Environmental stressors, toxins and pollution.
We bridge the gap between artists, community, and commerce through our creative networks. By promoting talent and visual literacy, we strive to create a more just, ethical and inclusive world. We support emerging and unrepresented artists by providing them with opportunities to showcase their work and helping them grow their careers. Additionally, we maintain close relationships with mid-career artists and provide them with opportunities to advance their careers through various activities and visibility.
WWW.REDHOTMONDE.COM
IRYNA VOSKERICIAN Editor-in-Chief
Publisher RED HOT MONDE MAGAZINE
Editorial Designer MUHAMAD ZIDAN MUHARWAN Managing Editor FRANCE VILLEGAS
Website Administrator SUKHVEER SINGH
COVER
Cover Model ALLISON HUYNH
CONTRIBUTORS
KATYA RICH, FRANCE VILLEGAS, JON DE LA CRUZ, LESLIE LAMARRE, BRAD KNIPSTEIN, KELLY HOHLA, JOHN MERKL, JULIE ROOTES, SEN CREATIVE, JOHN MERKL, ANSLEY MAJIT, JOHN ANDERSON, IRINA MIR, CHRISTOPHER STARK, BLAKE CHARLES, JASON MA, ALLIE EGAN, MARIA LARIONOVA.
Red Hot Monde Magazine is synonymous with affluence, heritage and the best of the best. Based in San Francisco, CA. Red Hot Monde is the unique platform for the most opulent and educated readers. Its audience has a shared appreciation for stylish excellence, quality, exclusivity, and culture. The most successful people rely on our brand to discover the products and experiences, and connect to them on a personal level through ideas and opinions we share in insightful interviews with the creators. Advertisers: If you have a product or service to sell, Red Hot Monde Magazine provides year long advertising programs with access to our highly trafficked website www.redhotmonde.com geared specifically to the fashion lifestyle industry. Please contact us pr@redhotmonde.com with subject “Advertising Proposal” and include your print-ready advertisement. Please allow up to 3-business days for review.
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As someone with deep roots in Vietnam and a successful life in America, how has your personal journey shaped the work you do today?
I came from post-war Vietnam with nothing but grit and hope, building a life in America that taught me resilience and the power of bridging worlds. As the baby of a family huddled in darkness—no electricity, no parties, just survival—I soaked up attention in a world short on babies and long on loss. I saw two Vietnams: my mom’s tears that fell too easily, and my dad’s stone face—like Madame Thao and my brother, who’d seen too much to flinch. Those extremes don’t define us—they remind us to heal, to close old wounds, and to live fearlessly. That’s why I founded the American Frontier Foundation (americanfrontier.global), sparking entrepreneurship and U.S.-Vietnam connections through events like the Golden Bridge gala. My journey fuels my mission: honor my roots, build new paths, and never let pain silence progress.
What Vietnamese values shape your work in the U.S.?
From Vietnam, I carry grit, community, and a deep respect for my roots—values that pulse through my work. Tình làng nghĩa xóm—that fierce, neighborly bond—fuels my mission to weave Vietnamese-Americans into a tighter, prouder network, linking hearts across the U.S. and Vietnam. Education and bold ideas push me to champion entrepreneurship through the American Frontier Foundation (americanfrontier.global) and the Golden Bridge gala, where we spark business and cultural bridges. And
then there’s the unorthodox gift from war’s shadow: a wicked sense of humor. I vibe with fellow survivors’ kids—those from scarred lands—who laugh loud, live gratefully, and give generously, no strings attached. We’ve seen too much to sweat the small stuff, and that joy drives my community to thrive, not just survive.
VIETNAM WAR REFLECTIONS
The upcoming gala honors the anniversary of the Vietnam-American War. How do you personally view the evolving narrative of the war, especially for the younger generations of both countries?
The Vietnam War, a distant echo for the young, still hums in their bones. Its story is shedding the cloak of discord for one of unity and ambition. Through the Golden Bridge gala, powered by my American Frontier Foundation (americanfrontier.global), we salute the past’s weight while toasting a Vietnam-U.S. alliance that’s all about progress. Today’s kids—shaped by fathers lost, wounded, or exiled, or by those who navigated the post-war regime— have no patience for old grudges. They’re a fearless crew, tearing down social and business walls with the audacity of a viral tweet. Done with their parents’ battles, they wager big, talk bold, and forge connections that scream, “We’re not here to divide— we’re here to conquer the future, with a side of swagger.”
The Vietnam War broke my heart before I even understood it—my family’s tears, their silence, their fight to survive in its wreckage shaped me. It taught me that war is a cruel jackpot for the powerful, a game where elites like McNamara, Mao, or Brezhnev play chess while innocents—Vietnamese villagers, young American soldiers—pay the price. I saw a photo recently, an extremist clutching an AR-15 in some far-off land, and it hit me: war is still a cash cow for the war machine, not the people.
Most Vietnamese & Americans didn’t want that fight—just like you and your partner might bicker and then wonder, “Wait, why’d we even start?” The war’s lesson is raw: mass destruction, a beautiful country in ruins, serves no one but profiteers. Dialogue could’ve saved us; resilience did. That’s why my American Frontier Foundation (americanfrontier. global) and the Golden Bridge gala are my soul’s work—turning grief into growth, linking Vietnam and the U.S. to empower dreamers, not warmongers. Let’s profit from hard work, from entrepreneurship, from building—not breaking.
“I CAME FROM POST-WAR VIETNAM WITH NOTHING BUT GRIT AND HOPE —MY JOURNEY FUELS MY MISSION TO HONOR MY ROOTS, BUILD NEW PATHS, AND NEVER LET PAIN SILENCE PROGRESS.”
In your opinion, what are some of the most important lessons the world should remember from the Vietnam War era?
How do you believe we can honor the past while building bridges toward a brighter future between Vietnam and America?
We honor the past by recognizing the sacrifices of veterans, refugees, and families, while building bridges through initiatives that unite us—economically, culturally, and socially. The American Frontier Foundation (americanfrontier.global) drives this mission, and the Golden Bridge gala exemplifies it. Vietnam veterans’ speeches offer re-
Vietnamese-Americans and other ASEAN groups while staying tied to our roots. The American Frontier Foundation (americanfrontier.global) reflects this, uniting our community with broader goals through events like the Golden Bridge gala.
How do you see the next generation of Vietnamese-Americans continuing and expanding the legacy you and your peers have built?
The next generation is innovative and proud of their dual identity. They don’t have the baggage or scars of war. They haven’t personally witnessed battle deaths or disfigurement. In some ways, they’re fearless because they grew up in a modern world with prosperity. Unburdened, they’ll expand our legacy in AI, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, elevating U.S.-Vietnam relations. The American Frontier Foundation (americanfrontier.global) supports them with platforms like the Golden Bridge gala, where they can connect and lead.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of Vietnamese-American relations—both culturally and economically?
I envision a future where cultural ties inspire thriving economic partnerships, with Vietnam and the U.S. leading in innovation and sustainability. The American Frontier Foundation (americanfrontier.global) is dedicated to this, and the Golden Bridge gala is a step toward making it happen.
What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs or philanthropists seeking to build bridges between Vietnam and the U.S.?
To young entrepreneurs and philanthropists looking to connect Vietnam and the U.S., I’d offer three key pieces of advice:
• Deepen Cultural Understanding: Success starts with respect for both cultures. Spend time learning about Vietnam’s values— community, resilience, and family-driven entrepreneurship—and how they complement the U.S.’s innovation and individualism. For example, Vietnamese businesses often prioritize long-term relationships over quick deals, so build trust through patience and personal connections.
• Focus on Mutual Value: Partnerships must be profitable and sustainable for both sides. Identify complementary strengths—Vietnam’s growing tech ecosystem and manufacturing expertise paired with U.S. market access and capital. Create ventures, like co-innovation hubs or cross-border startups, that deliver clear economic wins while fostering cultural exchange.
• Leverage Networks and Mentors: Tap into diaspora communities, like Vietnamese-American networks, and organizations like the American Frontier Foundation. Seek mentors who’ve navigated both markets— they’ll help you avoid pitfalls and spot opportunities. Start small, perhaps with pilot projects, to test ideas and build credibility.
Stay persistent but adaptable. Bridging two worlds isn’t easy, but the impact—economically and culturally—is worth it.
In your journey connecting two worlds, what has been your most meaningful or surprising lesson?
The most meaningful lesson I’ve learned is that cultural bridges are built on shared humanity, not just business deals. Early on, I focused heavily on the economics of partnerships—profit margins, market access, and scalability. But a surprising moment came during a project where we connected Vietnamese artisans with U.S. retailers. Beyond the contracts, the real breakthrough was seeing both sides share stories, values, and pride in their work. The Vietnamese artisans’ dedication to craft inspired the U.S. partners to rethink their supply chain with more respect for heritage.
This taught me that cultural understanding isn’t just a means to an end—it’s the foundation for trust and long-term success. When people feel seen and valued, partnerships become more than profitable; they become transformative. It’s reshaped how I approach every initiative at the American Frontier Foundation.
DECOR
2025 SAN FRANCISCO DECORATOR
SHOWCASE DESIGNERS TRANSFORM
SOPHISTICATED Pacific Heights MANSION
THE46TH SAN FRANCISCO DECORATOR SHOWCASE
San Francisco, CA – (April 23, 2025) – The 46th San Francisco Decorator Showcase is set to open in a sophisticated and spacious residence at 2935 Pacific Avenue in San Francisco’s prestigious Pacific Heights neighborhood. The region’s top interior and landscape designers have transformed the home into an immersive, oneof-a-kind experience, open to the public from April 26 to May 26, with exclusive preview parties on Thursday, April 24, and Friday, April 25.
Built in 1902 by T. Paterson Ross and extensively renovated in 2009, this 9,400-square-foot home spans five levels. It features eight bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, three halfbaths, an elevator, beautiful gardens, gracious living spaces, and more. The home’s spectacular rooftop terrace offers a fire pit, hot tub, separate living area, and stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and Bay. The house is currently on the market with Neill Bassi of Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage.
"The San Francisco Decorator Showcase is essential to the success of the University High School Financial Aid Program, which allows students from all walks of life to attend UHS," said University High School Director of Strategic Philanthropy Shaundra Bason. "We take great pride in the diversity of our student body and are committed to ensuring that every student has full access to a worldclass college preparatory education."
“Each year, the San Francisco Decorator Showcase brings together an extraordinary roster of the region’s most talented interior and landscape designers,” said Geoffrey De Sousa, Chair of the Decorator Showcase Design Advisory Board. “The 2025 Showcase will be no exception, featuring visionary designs that push creative boundaries while honoring the home’s architectural beauty. Visitors can expect a truly immersive and inspiring experience crafted by
the very best in the industry.”
“The transformation of the Showcase home is nothing short of remarkable,” said Stephanie Yee, Showcase Executive Director. “Behind the scenes, our designers pour their talent, creativity, and countless hours into bringing their visions to life— all under incredibly tight deadlines. Hundreds of volunteers, designers, donors, sponsors, builders and visitors come together to ensure Showcase’s success. The community’s dedication to Showcase and the students it supports is incredible.”
THIS YEAR’S DESIGNERS INCLUDE
• Rock, Paper, Scissors Jon de la Cruz de la Cruz Interior Design
• The Living Room Geoffrey De Sousa Geoffrey De Sousa Interior Design
• Family Portraits in DNA Diane Rosenblum Diane Rosenblum
• Marine Layers: Kitchen + Family Room Kelly Hohla Kelly Hohla Interiors
• The Pantry Nook Willem Racké Willem Racké Studio
Founded in 1973, San Francisco University High School (UHS) is an independent, coeducational institution dedicated to equity and excellence. Offering a challenging liberal arts curriculum and diverse extracurriculars, UHS fosters both academic and personal growth while engaging students in a transformational experience that embraces the spirited pursuit of learning and empowers purpose larger than self. The school serves students from over 100 Bay Area middle schools, 60% of whom identify as students of color, and provides $5.4 million in financial aid to its 490 students. Renowned for its competitive athletics, fine arts programs, and Breakthrough Summerbridge initiative, UHS promotes a culture of inquiry, care, integrity, agency, and interconnection.
UHS’s Pacific Heights campus, designed by Julia Morgan and expanded with properties like Paul Goode Field, reflects the school’s commitment to growth and innovation. With a $37 million endowment, UHS maintains financial stability, invests in faculty development, and prioritizes student well-being, celebrating alumni achievements across a broad range of fields through its annual Alumni Honors.
UHS’s core values encourage curiosity, empathy, and integrity, empowering students to pursue their passions while promoting interconnection within a diverse and inclusive community. Focused on continuous self-reflection and innovation, UHS remains a dynamic institution that adapts to the evolving needs of its students and the broader community.
www.sfuhs.org
The Decor Home
#2
MARINE LAYERS: KITCHEN + FAMILY ROOM
The art of layering is at the core of Kelly Hohla Interiors. We revel in reimaging spaces, organizing and unifying a series of moments into something transcendent, driven by the perspective that at the heart of great design is the magic of composition and the chemistry between client, designer and space. We are artful engineers creating homes that are balanced and harmonious.
CREDITS
DESIGNER
KELLY HOHLA
KELLY
PHOTOGRAPHER
JOHN MERKL
The Decor Home
CREDITS
PHOTOGRAPHER
CHRISTOPHER STARK
WAY OUT WEST: A TECHNICOLOR TIME-OUT
A technicolor homage to the West (Texas, California), referencing the Principal Designer’s own Texas roots, our rooftop listening lounge is an aerie-like space to unwind from the perpetual demands and distractions of modern life…to slow down and take a good old-fashioned timeout. Whether cozying up after a soak in the nearby spa, or decompressing after a long day (or night), you’ll find yourself encircled by a room of layered juxtapositions: a hint of 1970s glam with a touch of Western swagger; rich, brilliant colors play off of dusty desert tones; deliciously soft, luxurious textiles mingle with more rugged textures; cool shiny metals contrast with warm wood. The soulful mood of the space will be further enhanced by an exciting array of art and a curated soundscape emanating from the hi-fi nearby. Come on in for a spell, mix up some mezcal margaritas over ice at the glass brick bar, and get lost in the landscapes of your mind.
The Beauty
NATURAL CARE AND BEAUTY WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Mineral cosmetics are a unique category of beauty products made from natural minerals such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, iron oxide, and mica. Due to their composition, they do not contain artificial fragrances, preservatives, oils, or other chemical additives, making them hypoallergenic and safe even for the most sensitive skin. In addition to their decorative effect, mineral cosmetics nourish the skin, protect it from ultraviolet radiation, and provide a natural finish.
ADVANTAGES OF MINERAL COSMETICS
• Hypoallergenic and Natural Composition: The absence of aggressive chemical components reduces the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
• Sun Protection: Thanks to the presence of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, mineral cosmetics act as a natural sunblock.
• Breathable Texture: Mineral foundations do not clog pores, allowing the skin to breathe and preventing breakouts.
• Suitable for Sensitive and Problematic Skin: Natural minerals have a soothing effect and do not provoke breakouts.
• Long Shelf Life: Mineral cosmetics do not contain water, preventing bacteria growth, which significantly extends their shelf life compared to traditional cosmetics.
POTENTIAL DRAWBACKS OF MINERAL COSMETICS
Despite numerous benefits, mineral cosmetics also have some features that may be seen as drawbacks for certain users:
• May Accentuate Dry Skin: Due to their loose texture, mineral powders and foundations can highlight dry patches.
• Limited Longevity: Without silicones and synthetic fixatives, makeup may fade faster.
• Light Coverage: May not effectively conceal significant skin imperfections.
• Specific Application Techniques: Requires special brushes and layering techniques for an even application.
• Powder Fallout: The loose texture of some products can make them less convenient to use.
• Limited Shade Range: Some brands offer a restricted selection of shades, making it difficult to find the perfect match.
CONCLUSION
Mineral cosmetics are an excellent choice for those who value natural ingredients and prioritize skin health. They are ideal for individuals with sensitive and problematic skin and for those seeking a lightweight and natural makeup look. Despite some drawbacks, selecting the right products and mastering the application technique will help unlock the full potential of mineral cosmetics, making them an essential part of your daily beauty routine.
Made with natural pigments, mineral blushes add a healthy flush to the cheeks while being gentle on the skin. Popular choices include Youngblood Crushed Mineral Blush and Everyday Minerals Blush, known for their blendable and long-lasting formulas.
Loose powders that provide a smooth, natural finish while allowing the skin to breathe. Products like BareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation and Jane Iredale Amazing Base Loose Mineral Powder offer buildable coverage with a soft, radiant glow.
These lightweight yet effective foundations deliver even cov erage without clogging pores. Options such as Lily Lolo Mineral Foundation and Alima Pure Satin Matte Foundation offer a matte or satin finish, making them ideal for everyday wear.
These finely milled powders offer rich pigmentation with a silky texture. INIKA Loose Mineral Eyeshadow and Bellápierre Mineral Eyeshadow provide vibrant, crease-resistant colors that enhance any eye look.
Mineral Cosmetics
Designed to correct imperfections while nourishing the skin, mineral concealers like BareMinerals Correcting Concealer and Alima Pure Concealer offer a natural yet effective way to cover blemishes, dark circles, and redness.
Perfect for adding warmth and dimension to the face, mineral bronzers and highlighters are made with skin-loving ingredients that enhance your natural glow. Jane Iredale So-Bronze and Lily Lolo Shimmer Stripes provide a luminous, sun-kissed finish.
From lip pencils to lipsticks and glosses, mineral lip products are enriched with hydrating ingredients to keep lips soft and nourished. A great example is Mineralogie Vegan Lipstick, which offers rich color payoff with a smooth texture.
Katya Rich is a makeup artist, beauty expert, and award-winning participant in international competitions. I’m honored to be the official makeup artist for New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco Fashion Weeks. Previously, I founded the Rich Beauty Team, which has now evolved into Rich Beauty Studio in San Francisco.
DENIM DESERT CHIC ROCK CHIC GLAM
Rock a denim corset top with a mini skirt, white cowboy boots, and a cowboy hat for bold western vibes. Tie a scarf for extra flair and finish with a chic shoulder bag. Perfect for festival fun or desert adventures!
A leather mini skirt paired with a longline bra and leather belt gives off an effortlessly cool vibe. Gold boho accessories add warmth and shine, while plat form booties take the look to new heights. With a clutch and sunglasses, you're ready to turn heads in the heat.
THE LEGACY & VISION OF BLAKE CHARLES SALON
Blake Charles Salon has become a household name in San Francisco and Granite Bay. What do you believe distinguishes Blake Charles Salon from other luxury salons in the region?
Our team is what truly sets us apart. We believe we have assembled the most talented and diverse group of professionals in San Francisco, with staff originating from 13 different countries and trained across the globe. Our flagship location, situated at the iconic corner of Grant and Maiden Lane in Union Square, places us at the center of luxury shopping and high-end experiences. One of our
core values is to “Wow our customers,” and we strive to exceed expectations at every touchpoint of the client journey. You offer a wide range of services beyond haircuts and color, such as Hydrafacial, skincare, waxing, and even private events. How do these offerings align with the salon’s philosophy of providing a full-service luxury experience for clients?
This year marks the 40th anniversary of our historic salon location, which has long been recognized as a premier destination for luxury beauty services. Our commitment to being a one-stop beauty
destination remains today. Today, just as in decades past, we deliver a full-service experience, from skincare to special events, that allows our clients to feel pampered, cared for, and transformed from the moment they walk through our doors.
Blake Charles Salon’s iconic location at 77 Maiden Lane in San Francisco has been a destination for beauty seekers for nearly four decades. How does the rich history of this location impact the way you approach customer service and your team’s commitment to excellence?
Irina's Spa is known for its microcurrent treatments, which are popular among Hollywood's A-List celebrities. She uses the NeurotriS Machine, which is loved by Madonna and Paris Hilton, and described by Jennifer Aniston as "workouts for your face." Irina's microcurrent treatments help clients maintain their skin's firmness, volume, and vibrant, luminous glow.
Ecstatic Spa also incorporates unique facial massage techniques that sculpt the face and soften wrinkles. Irina is always on the cutting edge of the beauty industry, continually honing her expertise and elevating her craft. She has become a beacon of inspiration for others, setting the standard and propelling the beauty and skincare community forward with her pioneering vision. At Ecstatic Spa, Irina strives for perfection, and her expertise and commitment to excellence have made her an industry leader. By providing personalized and innovative skincare services, Irina empowers clients to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.
PREPARING YOUR NEXT GENS FOR GREATNESS ENHANCING UHNW FAMILY LEGACIES
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