Julianne Hough is once again shifting gears, a skill she has honed as an Emmy-winning choreographer, dancer, and co-host of “Dancing with the Stars.” After exploring the acting field in projects like “Footloose,” the adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ “Safe Haven,” and her Broadway appearance in “POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive,” she has now ventured into building brands she believes in, including Fresh Vine Wine—a premium low-sugar wine she co-founded with her friend Nina Dobrev.
In a new endeavor, the multi-talented performer is set to release her debut novel, “Everything We Never Knew,” on August 13. The book draws from her personal experiences while weaving a compelling fictional tale about a woman finding her own power amid mysterious events.
Hough, 36, shares with Alexa that her diverse creative outlets—dancing, acting, singing, and entrepreneurship—are all forms of self-expression, but writing holds a special place in her heart as the ultimate storytelling medium. She has been writing informally since the age of four, when she crafted an alphabet book.
She likens her writing process to that of Dolly Parton, who views her songs as mini-movies. Hough grew up captivated by series like “Twilight,” “Harry Potter,” and “Hunger Games,” and has recently developed a fondness for self-discovery literature.
Just as her reading tastes have evolved, so too has her fashion style, which has shifted toward a simple yet elegant look characterized by interchangeable neutrals. However, her choice of mascara has remained consistent. Below are some of her favorite fashion, beauty, and kitchen essentials.
Hough’s favorite dress is the La Ligne New York Andie Dress, which she describes as chic and luxurious without being overly expensive. For footwear, she loves Amanu The Nakuru custom-fit sandals, and her go-to handbag is the versatile Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette Bag.
Her favorite jewelry includes Agmes Bubble Hoops in sterling silver—a pair of earrings she finds suitable for various outfits. When it comes to sneakers, she opts for Loewe Flow Runners for a fashionable yet understated look. In swimwear, she prefers San Lorenzo Bikinis for maximum tanning.
Hough describes her upcoming book as an escape into a fictional world rich in self-discovery themes, tackling topics like abandonment and grief while allowing her to share her experiences without disclosing every personal detail.
To create a cozy atmosphere, she adores the Mad et Len Black Afghan candle, while her must-have drugstore item is L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara, a product she has trusted since middle school for its ability to create fuller, longer lashes. For eye makeup, she is fond of the Róen Beauty Gold Lust Eyeshadow Palette for its beautiful, clean ingredients.
Taking care of her hair is important to her, and she uses L’Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Purple Shampoo to maintain her blonde locks. Hough enjoys staying active with Kinrgy, her dance and fitness platform offering full-body workouts.
Moreover, she treasures a fragrance she received from Mariska Hargitay, consisting of jasmine, sandalwood, musk, and orange blossom. Her bedding must-haves include the Parachute Linen Duvet Cover Set for its chic and cozy design, while her cookware preferences include the Our Place Cookware Set Pro for its matte finish and non-stick features and the Caraway Food Storage Set for its versatility.