Andrea’s Second Act, Her Way

Different careers have called for different ways of dressing, just as moving between places has changed her everyday life. For Andrea, reinvention isn't about becoming someone else. It's about staying open to what comes next, whether that's a new profession, a new home, or simply something different to wear. As a career coach, she now helps others navigate their own professional transitions.

Her business is called Second Act, a fitting name for someone who believes there's always room for another chapter.

Andrea can find fashion inspiration almost anywhere, even on television. When something catches her eye, she's already styling it in her head: how she'd wear it, what she'd pair it with, and which shoes would finish the look.

Even a $10,000 designer dress won't stop her from imagining the possibilities. She'd simply find her own version. She believes in retail therapy, though she's not entirely sure whether it's the shopping itself she loves or what it sometimes fills. And while she likes discovering new things, she's happy to let go of pieces she no longer wears to make room for them.

For Andrea, there's always room for something new.

Her VIVAIA Wishlist

Andrea works remotely and moves between cities, but working from home has never meant giving up on getting dressed. “I like to be comfortable in whatever I'm wearing,” she says. “Even if it's kind of sexy looking, I want it to be comfortable, not like, 'I can't wait to take this off."

She enjoys beautiful clothes, but they have to work for her actual life. Between client meetings, travel, yoga, and time in the garden, versatility matters. Comfort extends beyond what she wears.

“I like to have a nice energy,” she says. “I like to have a space that is calming.”

Andrea's first experience with VIVAIA began when she decided to order a red-and-black pair of shoes. But when they arrived, the size wasn't quite right. With a trip planned for the following morning, she contacted customer service to see if she could get a smaller pair in time.

"It happened so fast," she remembers.

What could have been a frustrating start turned into an experience that stayed with her. The quick response left a lasting impression, and one order gradually turned into a collection of sneakers, ballet flats, Mary Janes, and blue crochet-style ankle boots.

Her beige Mary Janes with red piping are among her favorites.

"They're so cute and fun. I wear those all the time."

Her mesh sneakers have also become conversation starters. "People compliment them!" she laughs. "They'll say, 'Oh, look at your sneakers, they're so cool.' And I'm like, 'Yes, they are, aren't they?'"

Andrea likes shoes that feel comfortable but still have a little personality. Her current wishlist includes light-colored knee-high boots, lace-up ballet flats, and sneaker styles with the right combination of support and style. Naturally, she's already thinking about how she'd wear them.

Earlier this summer, Andrea underwent back surgery and was given a walker for recovery. She used it for a week, but not before covering it in crystals.

“I bedazzled my walker,” she says. Her girlfriend's response was immediate: “Of course you did.”

Andrea is just as direct about what matters in life. You're unlikely to look back and regret not spending another hour at work, she believes. Missing another walk on the beach or time with the people you love is another story.

Somewhere in her car, a pair of VIVAIA ballet flats is already waiting for whatever comes next.