Julianne Hough is making another pivot, which is something the Emmy-winning choreographer, dancer and co-host of “Dancing with the Stars” knows all about. After dipping her well-pointed toes into the acting world (from “Footloose” and the movie adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ book, “Safe Haven,” to her Broadway turn in “POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive”), the founder of the dance fitness system Kinrgy set her sights on creating more brands she loves, like Fresh Vine Wine, a premium low-sugar alternative she could sip with friend and co-founder Nina Dobrev.
Now, the also-accomplished singer is releasing her debut novel August 13, ‘Everything We Never Knew”, which incorporates some of her life experiences while still being a gripping piece of fiction — about a woman coming into her own power under mysterious circumstances.
“Dancing, acting, singing and even my entrepreneurship are all forms of expression for me. But writing is the ultimate storyteller,” Hough, 36, explains to Alexa. The Utah native has been writing informally since she was 4 years old, when she proudly wrote an alphabet book.
“Dolly Parton always said she saw her songs as mini-movies and I feel the same way about my writing,” says Hough, who grew up reading the “Twilight,” “Harry Potter,” and “Hunger Games” series.
Just as her taste in books has evolved over the years (self-discovery titles are a current favorite), so has her style. Instead of chasing trends, she has settled into a simple — yet elevated — aesthetic filled with interchangeable neutrals. The only thing that hasn’t changed is her choice of mascara. Read on to see which one she’s been using since middle school. Plus, the other fashion, beauty, and kitchen tools the chic LA-based star can’t live without.
FAVORITE DRESS: La Ligne New York Andie Dress
“Chic! This maxi feels high-end and luxurious but doesn’t break the bank.”
FAVORITE FLATS: Amanu The Nakuru
“These are custom-fit sandals, tailored to you.”
FAVORITE HANDBAG: Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette Bag
“This is so versatile and you can fit so much in it.”
FAVORITE TIMEPIECE: Cartier Tank Française Watch in 18-k Yellow Gold
“I love that you can dress it up or down.”
FAVORITE JEWELRY: Agmes Bubble Hoops in Sterling Silver
“These are my go-to silver earrings. They look great with any outfit.”
FAVORITE SNEAKERS: Loewe Flow Runner
“Super fashionable but understated.”
FAVORITE BIKINI: San Lorenzo Bikinis L’Amour Granite Hoop Ring Bikini Top and L’Amour Granite Hoop Ring Side Tie Bikini Bottom
“The tiniest one for maximum tanning possibilities!”
FAVORITE READ: “Everything We Never Knew” by Julianne Hough and Ellen Goodlett
“With this book, you can escape into a fictionalized world that promotes self-discovery. There are universal themes that we all go through, such as abandonment, betrayal, loss and grief. We just have different ways of experiencing them. With my art, I really wanted to be able to share what I’ve gone through without giving every personal detail away and that’s why the book is a novel and not a memoir.”
FAVORITE MOOD-SETTER: Mad et Len Black Afghan candle
“This is a woodsy scent that is not too masculine. It reminds me of being at a cabin in the woods, and it makes my home feel cozy.”
FAVORITE DRUGSTORE MUST-HAVE: L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara
“It is the only mascara I will wear. I have worn it since middle school and it always creates full, long lashes and doesn’t flake under the eyes.”
FAVORITE EYE CANDY: Róen Beauty Gold Lust Eyeshadow Palette
“This clean beauty brand [that is vegan, gluten-free and cruelty-free] has gorgeous palettes, and its Tom Ford-like packaging is so lovely.”
FAVORITE COLOR ENHANCER: L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Purple Shampoo for Colored Hair
“It keeps my hair bright, blonde and beautiful.”
FAVORITE WORKOUT: Kinrgy
“This is my dance and fitness platform with 360 full-body workouts for physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.”
FAVORITE FRAGRANCE: Ilary Roll-On-Perfume
“I hugged Mariska Hargitay once and she smelled so good that I asked what she was wearing. She pulled this [blend of jasmine, sandalwood, musk and orange blossom] out of her purse and gave it to me. So, now, I keep extras so I can do the same.”
FAVORITE BED BUDDY: Parachute Linen Duvet Cover Set
“The duvet and pillow cases automatically look chic but feel lived-in.”
FAVORITE COOKWARE: Our Place Cookware Set Pro
“I love the matte look and non-stick function.”
FAVORITE KITCHEN CONTAINERS: Caraway Food Storage Set
“These storage sets are ceramic-coated and multifunctional (microwave, freezer, oven and dishwasher safe).”