Trans actress, director and activist Tommy Dorfman tells Alexa that her fashion and beauty philosophy is simple: “Lean into what feels good.” (Right now, that’s floral dresses, a go-to designer carryall, statement sunglasses and a signature scent.)
The same could be said about the Atlanta-born Brooklynite’s career. After making a name for herself on the hit TV show “13 Reasons Why” as Ryan Shaver, she has branched out, working on fashion campaigns with the likes of Calvin Klein, Fendi, Coach, and Balmain, and recently supporting designer Collina Strada.
She’s created a space dedicated to platforming queer and allied artists and writers called Curran, and hosts the popular popular “My First Time” podcast. Dorfman, 31, is currently in Austin for SXSW, promoting her feature directorial debut, “I Wish You All the Best.” It’s an adaptation of Mason Deaver’s coming-of-age novel with a nonbinary protagonist, starring Cole Sprouse and Alexandra Daddario.
It’s clear the multi-hyphenate (who is currently engaged to “a gay girl”) is not done expanding her empire (a book of essays for HarperCollins is next!) and continues to look stunning while slaying it. Here are some of the things — from food to fashion — that make her feel her absolute best.
FAVORITE FRAGRANCE: Fenty Beauty “Fenty” eau de parfum (2.5 oz.), $140 at Sephora
“I first used this when I did a brand deal with them when they launched — and have since not been able to stop wearing it. I’ve never gotten more compliments on a fragrance in my life.”
FAVORITE SPRING DRESS: “Florencia” dress, $398 at Doen
“Doen has a chokehold on my spring-summer wardrobe. The clothes are effortless and easy in sweltering New York City weather.”
FAVORITE SHADES: “Triomphe” metal sunglasses, $550 at Celine
“Timeless, classic, beautiful.”
FAVORITE HANDBAG: “Terrasse” leather bag, $2,990 at The Row
“My everyday bag that I got on sale in Berlin last year. Sadly, the strap broke after a few months, but I was able to get it repaired and she’s still kicking!”
FAVORITE TARGET RUN: Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier electrolyte powder, $15 at Target
“I’m not sure if it’s a placebo effect, but I am now dependent on this anytime I travel.”
FAVORITE HEALTHY SNACK: 365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Dark Chocolate Nuts & Berries Trail Mix, $13 at Amazon
“Trail mix and blueberries are always on my desk during the work week.”
FAVORITE SELF-CARE TOOL: Age-R Booster-H Glow Boost wand , $330 at Medicube
“This face LED helps my skin absorb product.”
FAVORITE BASIC: Rib Fitted Racer Tank, $36 at Easy Standard Apparel
“It’s the gayest tank top and I love it!”
FAVORITE TIMEPIECE: Panthère de Cartier watch in 18-k yellow gold, $23,300 at Cartier
“This is aspirational. I just think it’s timeless and perfect so if I was investing in a watch, I would invest in this and pass it down to my children.”
FAVORITE RING: “Forever & Always a Pair-Love” band in 18-k yellow gold with sapphires, from $2,900 at Foundrae
“I wear it every day and it’s perfection. I love supporting queer-owned brands.”
FAVORITE SPRING COAT: Kensington Trench, $368 at Reformation
“The East Coast rain has me eyeing this cutie.”
FAVORITE SPRING SHOES: “Ginger” Mary Janes, $250 at Loeffler Randall
“Loeffler Randall makes shoes for girls with bigger feet without sacrificing comfort or style. Their 42 fits like a 43+, so size down if you’re going for it.”
FAVORITE ALBUM: Florence + The Machine “How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful double vinyl set, $35 at Amazon
“Anytime I feel anxious or stressed I blast this from start to finish.”
FAVORITE SWEET TREAT: Milk Bar “Birthday Cake” ice cream, $6 at Target
“Birthday cake ice cream. Just try it.”
FAVORITE MOOD-SETTER: “Cotton Poplin” candle, $47 at Byredo
“Spring and summer scent unlocked.”
FAVORITE HAIR PRODUCT: Willow Glen Treatment Oil, $48 at Rōz
“Rōz has the best natural hair products I know of and they work well with my curly, frizzy-prone hair.”
FAVORITE LIP GLOSS: Saie Glossybounce High-Shine Hydrating Lip Gloss Oil, $22 at Sephora
“Buildable hydration — and it’s great for layering over a color.”
FAVORITE BOOK: “Bellies” novel by Nicola Dinan, $15 at Amazon
“‘Bellies’ is a groundbreaking and gut-wrenching novel with a trans love story at its core.”
