Steph Shep is the tastemaker of all tastemakers. She exudes effortless, cool girl energy and elegance — whether she’s serving exemplary street style or speaking on the issues that matter to her most.
As the founder of non-profit Future Earth, a climate crisis information hub, she’s outspoken about environmental advocacy and, in recent years, has carefully aligned herself with sustainable brands and products. And, as the star of our latest Leakproof campaign, Period Underwear is the latest addition to that growing list.
Ahead, the beauty mogul opens up about her period rituals and routines, including the products she can’t live without, her go-to snacks, the misogyny of the pink tax, and more.
In the past, you’ve opened up about your beauty routine (no gatekeeping!). Naturally, we’d love to know more about your period routine. What can you tell us?
My period routine is focused on self-care and being kind to myself. The first day is the worst, I try to get as much sleep as possible.
After the first day, I focus on staying active. Working out may sound (and be) awful for some during their period, but if you’re up for it, I recommend, I always feel better after.
As an environmental advocate and the co-founder of climate education platform Future Earth, how has your period routine evolved to become most sustainable?
It's opened a whole new exploration of period care for me. When it comes to sustainability, I am always learning of new innovations and products that are better for the environment.
Knix’s Leakproof Underwear has really changed the game for their customers. It’s a sustainable solution to single use period products and they are incredibly comfortable!
From your favorite munchies to cramp relievers, what are your holy grail period must-haves?
Justin Peanut Butter Cups, rose milk boba, a Lowell Farms joint, and The Office on repeat.
Hormones can be a real rollercoaster, as we all know. As someone who’s vocal about the importance of mental health, how do you prioritize yours during those dreadful bouts of PMS?
My emotions tend to take me for a ride. I hate the old saying “Are you on your period or something?” whenever a woman shows emotion, but we are also literally dealing with a major fluctuation in our hormones and a dip in our brain’s serotonin levels (chemical responsible for mood)! Allow us to have a good cry or be cranky for a day.
Do you think talking openly about periods is a step in the right direction in terms of eradicating period stigma?
I absolutely do. We are stronger together!
We live in a misogynistic society, where pink tax exists, and our bodies are being controlled by laws. When we come together for great causes and support each other, real change can happen (online and offline!). We need to lift each other up, show up for each other and help voices be heard. When one of us wins, we all win!