This episode is a little unhinged in the best way.

Claire sits down with Laura Stemmer (single mom of two, Manhattan-based, nightlife/bar owner energy, fashion background, zero fear) for a conversation that starts with chihuahuas being… chihuahuas… and ends with actual life advice that hits way harder than it should.

We get into:

• how Laura went from Parsons fashion design → nightlife survival mode → running the room

• why everyone should work service at least once (or you’re not real)

• the power dynamics of bartending, the $100 tip effect, and why “no” is weirdly profitable

• list-only, no-photos NYC nightlife lore + protecting celebrity regulars

• becoming a mom, still dressing like a menace, and your kids still rating you as “the coolest”

• mindset shifts: there are no rules, failing is learning, consistency = trust, and “hot” is a state of mind

• fashion talk: 90s mistress, vintage archives, lingerie-as-going-out, fur discourse, and why basics can still be cunty if your aura is right

It’s the kind of episode that makes you want to go do something reckless (in a productive way), text your bartender friend, and buy a turtleneck + Louboutin boot combo immediately.

Laura Stemmer
Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/laurastemmer/?hl=en⁠

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Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashion⁠

Fashion networking & resources
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