*Originally Published in Patch Sarasota
Posted by Elise Lipoff Ramer
Fashionable and Fabulous
Much like a rock star, Chef Judi Gallagher’s persona is not only alluring, it is down right addictive. Fun, perky, and bold, Judi has a style all of her own, and I’m not talking about her chef’s whites. The TV personality and culinary brand builder has a vivacity for fashion and beauty. Here is what Judi has to say about life behind the camera and in front of the mirror.
Elise: So, Chef Judi, what does the word style mean to you?
JG: Since I style food, and not myself, (I have professionals to do that, like my friends at Bohemian Bliss and Darcy at Cache), I think about things in terms of plating a dish. I like clean lines, simplicity and let the food showcase itself. I don’t overdo a plate. That is not my style.
Elise: How do you think fashion has influenced your plating designs?
JG: I would say my designs fall somewhere in between bohemian chic and a Calvin Klein black dress with matching accessories. While my culinary training of the late ‘70s and 80’s were focused in the French style, the plating techniques I use stem from those core concepts. You will see a simpler, three-tone approach on the plate. It’s probably the New Englander coming out in me, reminiscent of my white, navy blue and khaki summers by the beach.
Elise: Let’s move from the styling of a dish to living a fashionable lifestyle, Judi. Who are your fashion icons?
JG: Michael Korrs, Calvin Klein, (occasionally) Cole Haan, Michelle Obama and my mother. My Mom taught me that accessories are everything, which is why you will never see me without a long necklace or my funky bangle bracelets.
Elise: Shoes. Purses. Or Both?
JG: The past few years I have invested heavily in my handbag collection. Since I am so tall and have a bad back, I don’t have the luxury of wearing higher heals. But, I do love dress boots. As soon as the temperature in Florida drops below 80 degrees, out come those boots! I must have at least 14 pairs.
Elise: As a celebrity chef, hospitality consultant and brand representative, how do you dress for these different roles?
JG: I must confess. I have several closets that are organized by color. In one closet, I keep formal clothing for charity events, client dinners or dinner parties. In the big walk-in is the “Chef Judi – Made for TV” closet, where I have my casual and fun looks. Then, in the spare room, I store my coats, blazers and belts. I love my belts (and they hide a lot, too).
Elise: Who is on your team of go-to people who keep you looking fabulous?
JG: I could not do without my girls Ashley, Coral, Korey and Mimi at Cutting Loose Salon on Main Street and University Parkway in Sarasota. They are my hair, make up and eyelash extensions masters. Mary from Lasting Looks of Sarasota keeps my skin of “a certain age” looking healthy and vibrant. My gorgeous nails are done by Bobbi Groeschel from Nails by Bobbi. And, of course, every woman must have her shopping buddies to keep that closet full, and so I must include my fellow divas Margaret Wise and BJ Creighton. They are the best at picking out my outfits.
Learn more about the fashionable Chef Judi and her successful sense of style off and on the plate by reading her blog: https://www.judigallagher.com/blog/ .
