In Her Element: How Supermodel Turned Influencer Emily DiDonato Stays Grounded
In Her Element is a YCB column by Meredith Lepore dedicated to spotlighting the daily rituals, routines, and mindset shifts that help inspiring women lead with authenticity and intention. Whether they’re launching a business or redefining their brand, these women bring us into their world, sharing the habits that help them stay grounded and the philosophies that help them thrive.
Emily DiDonato may have been written off as just another silent, beautiful face back in her modeling days for Sports Illustrated, Vogue, Bazaar and countless others, not to mention she has walked for brands including Chanel, Balmain, Louis Vuitton and Givenchy. But in recent years, DiDonato has made it clear she’s far more than a model. Through her refreshingly candid social media presence and her podcast ReModeling With Emily DiDonato, she’s found her voice—and it’s one worth listening to.
I stumbled upon her TikTok account one day a few years ago and was intrigued by the astonishingly beautiful woman being so honest about her postpartum weight loss journey. Here was someone who looked impossibly flawless, yet spoke with complete vulnerability. As I scrolled, I discovered a treasure trove of content: makeup tutorials, real talk about her 20s (the glam and the cringe), reflections on falling in love, navigating new motherhood in the suburbs, and finding identity beyond the runway.
Her Instagram post on her 34th birthday sums it up best: “34! I’ve spent 15 years as a model, and for a long time, I believed that was all I was capable of,” the New York native wrote. “The thought of aging—both physically and in terms of an uncertain future—haunted me… Now, at 34, I know that couldn’t be further from the truth.”
She is also willing to share the tough times in her life and be vulnerable as well. Last year the mother of son Oliver and daughter Teddy, whom she shares with husband Kyle Peterson, revealed that she had a miscarriage with her third baby. “I share what feels real and relevant in the moment. If I’ve gone through something like postpartum anxiety and think it could help someone else, I’ll talk about it. My rule is: if it feels authentic and it might offer value to someone, it’s worth sharing,” she told YCB.
We recently caught up with the Covey Skincare cofounder at Bar Sprezzatura’s Festa Della Primavera, a breezy new rooftop oasis in Manhattan inspired by the effortless charm of Coastal Italy. Over spritzes and spring sunshine, DiDonato opened up about how she stays centered during the chaos of event season (and also gave us her favorite summer drink order), the wellness rituals that help her feel grounded inside and out, and how motherhood has reshaped not only her sense of self, but also her deeper commitment to living well—mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Meet Emily DiDonato: Model, Entrepreneur, and Wellness Minimalist
Wellness has been a cornerstone of your brand. How do you personally balance a busy public-facing lifestyle with internal wellness during heavy event seasons like spring and summer?
There’s never a perfect balance—especially since becoming a mom. I’ve had to really focus on prioritization. My wellness practices are often shorter and more planned out. I wake up very early to make time for movement and quiet moments to myself. Before busy seasons, I prioritize quality time with my kids through activities we love. My non-negotiables are working out, eating healthy, and journaling.
What’s your personal approach to entertaining and creating that kind of vibe in your everyday life?
I love making fresh, vibrant meals—especially grilling outside. Having friends over by the pool, playing music, and sharing healthy dishes is my ideal way to entertain. It’s all about being outdoors, eating well, and bringing people I love together.
Are you a spritz, martini, or Negroni girl?
100% an Aperol Spritz girl—it’s my favorite cocktail.
How do you personally prioritize mental wellness, especially in an industry that often values perfection over authenticity?
It hasn’t always been easy. With age, I’ve learned the importance of asking for help—whether from friends, my husband, or a professional. I make time to journal, work out, and care for myself the way I care for others. Those daily practices help ground me.
You’ve grown from high-fashion model to influencer, businesswoman, and mom. What’s surprised you most about your personal evolution over the last decade?
How strong and resilient I’ve become. When I was younger, I’d get flustered easily. Now, as a mom with much more on my plate, I’m amazed at what I can handle. I’m stronger than I ever imagined.
In Her Element: Emily’s Essentials Edit
What does self-care look like for you now, especially on days when you’re not working or working out?
Self-care can be as simple as a 10-minute walk, five-minute meditation, or 10 deep breaths. I try to create micro-moments throughout the day where I drop into my body and stay present.
After a tough workout or challenging day, what’s your go-to recovery ritual? Any specific foods or wellness products you swear by?
I focus on refueling with protein and carbs to support muscle recovery—like chicken, ground turkey, steak, or salmon. I also love stretching, foam rolling, sauna sessions, and cold plunges.
Before stepping onto a red carpet or attending a big event, what do you rely on to feel your best?
I make sure I’m well rested (7–8 hours of sleep), drink plenty of water, avoid sodium the night before, and eat enough protein so I feel strong and centered.
When you travel, especially for shoots or events, what’s one item that always makes the flight feel more comfortable and productive?
My Manta eye mask! I keep one in every travel bag. It completely blocks out light, stays in place, and makes rest possible anywhere.
What’s the one product or wellness tool you truly can’t start your day without?
My journal. I’ve become very consistent with it over the past year—it’s been an anchor through tough times.
What’s something unexpected we might find at the bottom of your purse right now?
Packets of applesauce—courtesy of my kids!
What are you currently streaming or obsessed with on TV?
My husband and I are loving Friends and Neighbors—it’s so good.
You’ve had such a dynamic career and continue to explore new ventures. What’s next?
Great question—stay tuned! I have lots of ideas in the works. Who knows… maybe I’ll write a book.