Extraordinary Health Magazine Extraordinary Health Vol 22 | Page 29

It’s All About the Clothes! Many Scandal fans are enamored with the show’s costumes because Olivia Pope and her staff of “Gladiators in Suits” have elevated professional attire to new heights. With beautifully constructed custom-tailored jackets, suits and dresses in tasteful neutral palettes, Washington was asked about the costumes so much that she decided to create her own clothing line. Teaming up with the show’s Emmy Award-Winning costume designer Lyn Paolo, she’s debuting a collection—inspired by the show— exclusively for The Limited. Scheduled to arrive in stores and online nationwide around the same time the show resumes September 25, the collection marks the first-ever collaboration of a national retailer, a top network TV show, and the show’s costume designer and lead actress. Years ago, Washington admits she was obsessed with weighing herself to make sure she stayed within a certain weight range. Eventually she realized that constantly checking her weight was doing a lot more harm than good, so she abolished the habit altogether. “I don’t weigh myself because there’s never a good answer on the scale!” she exclaimed. “Instead, I’m very conscious about what I eat. I eat a clean diet and I also like to make vegan protein shakes and mix them with coconut water.” Washington joked that fans always ask her if she gets to keep the clothes she wears on the show, but confirmed she has to return every single item. With the new collection of tops, jackets, pants and outerwear, the gladiator look will be affordable and accessible with prices starting at $49. “The collection is a nod to our devoted fans, everyday fashionistas and to women everywhere who are inspired to pursue their passions and look good while doing it,” she said. Making Health a Priority When asked about how she manages to stay healthy while keeping up with work and family demands, Washington said she simply makes it a priority to take care of the basics. With a healthy diet, exercise, meditation and rest, she’s able to stay calm, balanced and at her best. Not thrilled with dieting, she rarely steps on scales to weigh herself and likes to fuel her body with fresh organic foods at farmers markets. “When I travel to a new city, I like to visit the farmers markets,” Washington said. “I find that it’s a great way to check out the fresh, local foods in the area and to connect with people who value their health.” THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. (ABC/Richard Cartwright) Other than fueling her body with healthy fruits, veggies and lean meats, Washington exercises daily and stays fit by doing activities she enjoys such as hiking, dancing and Pilates. She said that regular Pilate ͕́