Former "Top Chef" host Padma Lakshmi has digested many meals, written several books (including a New York Times bestseller) and has even modeled for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. Now she's taking on a new adventure and trying her hand at fashion.
Lakshmi recently sat down with Shop TODAY, to talk about her love for lingerie, accepting body changes and the discomforts of shopping. Especially for underwear!
“Around my mid-40s, my body started changing and I went from a 34C to a 36DD," Lakshmi shares. Body changes are nothing new and Lakshmi, who recently partnered with Bare Necessities for a new collection, shared that she didn't fully develop until she was around 17.
Now, embracing the changes that come with time is something she appreciates. "I would rather have the body I have or even my future body, which will continue to deteriorate and sag — and I accept it because it makes me feel at peace."
That's why partnering with a lingerie brand felt natural. “I always saw it as a beautiful sign of private femininity. I come from an Orthodox South Indian family and lingerie always was very private. So, being led into that world felt very grown up,” says Lakshmi.
“I’ve always loved lingerie and wanted/played with my mom’s lingerie drawer,” says Lakshmi. Throughout her life, Lakshmi had to adapt to certain stereotypes and social norms — and that included donning unmentionables.
And while building a lingerie collection seems unconventional for someone who grew up in a traditional household, Lakshmi understands the outdated social standards women have been subjected to.
"I think society is mired by stereotypes and morality imposed on women that are double standards — and are expired. Women are living fuller lives and are completely independent. Nobody ever pointed fingers at me for wearing sexy things, but once in a while someone asks why I exploit myself that way," adds Lakshmi.
But donning lace-sewn lingerie isn't what makes her feel the most confident in her skin. "What makes me feel the most confident is when I've had the privilege of enough time to go to the gym on a regular basis or hiking with my girlfriends," says Lakshmi.
And as a busy entrepreneur, mom of one, model and producer, Lakshmi struggles (just like the rest of us) to fit exercise into her packed-up schedule. "I wouldn't have done the photoshoot for my next cookbook if I went to the gym. Sometimes you got to choose between your ass and your intellect," quips Lakshmi.
As a part of our Shopping Diaries, we asked Lakshmi to share her favorite must-have essentials for the gym, what travel essentials she always packs and the hair product that keeps her looking good on the go.
Shopping Diaries: Padma Lakshmi
Neal's Yard Remedies Lavender Essential Oil
When it comes to smelling good, Lakshmi says, "I make my own fragrance out of a blend." Though she didn't reveal her secret mix, she did say that Neal’s Yard Remedies is her go-to for sourcing her blend.
Elta MD UV Sport Sunscreen
Since Lakshmi likes to spend time outdoors and hiking with her girlfriends, she keeps her skin protected with EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion. Our Shop TODAY writers are also fans of this sunscreen. One of our experts even gave this product their seal of approval.
Oribe Texturizing Spray
Whether Lakshmi finds herself at the gym or a photoshoot, she keeps her hair intact with Oribe's texturizing spray. This one helps to get rid of flyaways and even works great on fine hair.
Alo 5" Airbrush High-Waist Biker Shorts
With workout classes waiting for Lakshmi, she likes to wear athleisure from Alo Yoga once she's done with her busy schedule. "I feel like Alo is more fashion-forward as far as workout gear is concerned. Their cuts are feminine and easy to keep on long after you've left the gym," she notes.
Bare Necessities Padma x Bare Necessities Calais Lace Front-Close Plunge Bra
In her collaboration with Bare Necessities, Lakshmi expresses that it was very "tight on purpose" and built it with the woman and traveler in mind. "If I had to pack one suitcase I would choose the T-shirt bra because it has a front closure, so it's easy but still pretty to wear. The bra will move with you and feels sporty at the same time," adds Lakshmi.
On Women's Cloud X 3 AD
Lakshmi is big on working out so having the right pair of sneakers while hiking or training is very important for her. She loves On sneakers and says, "I really feel something is missing if I don't go to the gym. Like, four or five days a week is ideal and for the last three weeks and a half I haven't entered a gym."
