Meet the people behind SOPHRO.
Alexis McDonell
(Founder & EIC)
Originally from Ohio, Alexis came to New York to pursue a career in fashion and journalism. After writing a piece on fashion’s effect on the environment, she switched her focus to sustainable fashion. Feeling a call to do more, she started this magazine to educate and inspire on the shift necessary for the fashion industry.
Favorite thing I ever thrifted: Too many things! But if I had to pick one, I guess this vintage brown fringe leather jacket.
Anjuli Ramos Busot
(Managing Editor)
At her day job, Anjuli is an environmental scientist and atmospheric chemist (casual) for the state of New Jersey. And all other times she is a creative devoted to sharing her love of sustainable fashion. Originally from Puerto Rico and with a thirst for travel, she draws inspiration from her various experiences with the people and places all across the globe.
Favorite thing I ever thrifted: Prada 2000s bag & Stella McCartney slip-ons
Brandon Cobian
(Director of Photography
& Videography)
Originally from Orlando, FL and now based out of Queens, Brandon is a freelance photographer and videographer. His passion is helping people share their stories, their brand, and their personality. “I love creating and collaborating, and this project has been the epitome of just that,” he says. “Full honesty here, thrifting and living a more sustainable life is brand new to me. It has been so eye-opening to see just how easy it can be to make a small change.”
Favorite thing I ever thrifted: Tan London Fog trench coat
Caroline Durkee
(Visual Designer & Editor)
A young graphic designer living and working in good ol’ NYC, Caroline is a “city girl until I die!” Monday through Friday she’s a graphic designer for a major fashion retailer, which she considers her true passion (besides shopping!). She also is the fashion and beauty blogger behind The Freckled Life.
Favorite thing I ever thrifted: Vintage Christian Dior buttons to put on one of my blazers
Helena Madden
(Writer & Editor)
Helena pens real estate, style, design and travel coverage across Robb Report’s print and digital offerings, as well as Muse, RR’s biannual women’s publication. A recent graduate from Fordham University, she’s forever on the hunt for fresh art (and furniture) to cram into her Bushwick apartment.
Favorite thing I ever thrifted: Patchwork brown leather jacket
Gi Shieh
(Writer & Editor)
Gi is a sustainable fashion blogger based out of New York. She hopes to merge sustainability, conscious mindset, and creative expression through content creation. In her spare time, you can probably find her hanging out at the local yoga studio (or cafe across the street).
Favorite thing I ever thrifted: Black leather jacket
Despina Parthemos
(Writer & Editor)
Despina is a freelance journalist and founder of sustainable lifestyle blog, The Fashion Novelist. She studied knitwear design at the Fashion Institute of Technology while writing for different platforms relating to animal ethics, including Vegan Fashion Week and Sentient Media. Her work aims to branch the disconnect between sustainable living and animal rights.
Favorite thing I ever thrifted: A black ankle-length denim jacket with colorful floral panels
Zineb El Boukili
(Writer & Editor)
Zineb is a blogger and lover of writing living in France. She has an affinity for everything Parisian. When it comes to sustainability, she says, “I’m not perfect, but trying to do my best.” (we all are!)
Favorite thing I ever thrifted: A pair of leggings
Holly McDonell
(Consultant)
Holly has vast and deep passions for education, figure skating, and design. She has degrees in mathematics, early childhood education, and as a reading specialist. She has been a skating coach for 18 years and she has certifications in floral design, home staging and re-design, and color consultation. Holly is quick to repurpose and refine her attire and home furnishings to bring her personality to life through fashion and interior design!
Favorite thing I ever thrifted: Bloomingdale’s leopard print cashmere sweater
Matt McDonell
(Consultant)
A chemical engineer by degree, Matt coordinates design, development, and delivery activities that introduce new consumer goods to the marketplace. Additionally, he mentors young men through coaching lacrosse in the Cincinnati area. On weekends, Matt can be found in his workshop restoring and fabricating furniture and home accessories, rooting for Syracuse sports, or finding a local fishing hole.
Favorite thing I ever thrifted:
Mid-century modern dresser and side tables
sophro 