Alyssa Hardy is a writer, editor and social media manager in New York. Her work has appeared on several websites and publications, including Teen Vogue, NYLON, Ladygunn Magazine, and StrandedNYC.  She is also at the helm of all social media platforms for premiere beauty industry educator, Milady. With a particular penchant for small designers and sustainable fashion, Alyssa has built a career out of her love of fashion, and the belief that it is the ultimate form of expression. “I’ve had a dual passion for writing and fashion ever since I was a kid wearing crop tops and fake “editor glasses” pretending to read and write before I even could. I feel really lucky that I’ve been able to find a way to marry the two in my career.” 

 Alyssa is a multitasker. A girl on the go. Someone we admire and love for her ambition and go getter attitude and her views on feminism. "To me feminism reaches beyond just women’s rights, it stands for equal opportunities for individuals no matter what color their skin is, what pronoun they choose or what standard of health they fit into."  Thank you Alyssa for being our Muse of the Week. Learn even more about Alyssa below in Stacy Igel's BTS Q&A interview:

1. Are you a Subway or Car (via, uber, lyft or other (bus/walk /etc) girl?

Anyone who knows me knows just how much I hate cars. When I’m in the city working I’m definitely a subway kind of lady it’s the quickest way to get around! Plus, I am a terrible at gym commitments but I’ll walk just about anywhere if it’s not freezing.

2. Favorite spot to be creative?

By pretty much any window. As a writer, my brain clutters up so easily when I’m sitting in a dark room. I have a blank page in front of me that I know I have to fill but sometimes all I can think about is my sink full of dishes or that online reformation sale that ends tonight. When I’m sitting by a window, I can feel the environment around me, and allow that to be a welcome distraction. It’s inspiring.

3. Causes you advocate for?

I consider myself a staunch feminist. I come from a family full of really amazing women and men who have taught me that every single person in this world should be treated with respect. To me feminism reaches beyond just women’s rights, it stands for equal opportunities for individuals no matter what color their skin is, what pronoun they choose or what standard of health they fit into.  

I’ve also been vegan for 10 years so I’m very much an advocate for listening to yourself and doing what’s right for your body.

4. Favorite quote?

I have so many but the Bell Jar got me through my teenage years so Sylvia Plath is always a go to for me.  ““If neurotic is wanting two mutually exclusive things at one and the same time, then I'm neurotic as hell.”

5. Tell us about your last moment you shared with someone?

I’m taking the word moment figuratively. I recently went on vacation with my friends and my boyfriend to California. My friend told a funny joke and we all were laughing in the sun. Everyone was so happy and radiant and I thought, “man, I need to live like this more often.”

All photos by Spencer Kohn