If you’re like us, you’ve probably wondered what famous people add to their carts. Not the JAR brooch and Louis XV chair but the hair spray and the electric toothbrush. We asked DJ and star on Vanderpump Rules James Kennedy, who recently partnered with Malibu rum, about the hair product he’s been using since high school, pasta that tastes almost as good as SUR’s, and the ring light he takes to gigs.
Oh yes, this is the best. I’ve been using this stuff since high school. Hairdressers scold me for it. They’re like, “What do you mean you use this?” But if it works, why change it, you know what I mean? The hold lasts all night. I’m a pro at this point and know the perfect amount to use. I’ve done my hair hundreds of times with this for the past 15 years. I love that it washes out super-easily. I hate those annoying gel waxes and pomades that stay in your hair forever. That can’t be good for it. I like to keep my hair really healthy and let it live without product in it. Obviously, I’ve got the best hair on Vanderpump Rules, and there’s a reason for that.
Over time, I’ve discovered stuff that works for me from makeup artists on set. I really liked this and the Dior Airflash but then Dior discontinued that. It’s okay, though, because this is hands down my holy-grail product for a quick touch up on- and off-camera. It’s great for when I’m on the go, especially at the airport because I want to make sure I’m looking good while I travel. This keeps my skin looking fresh. Sometimes I’ll use a little bit before I DJ. Nothing too much, obviously, but just a little for some extra coverage.
With late nights and early mornings, I gotta keep that skin moisturized. It really annoys me when I have dry skin. I can’t stand the feeling. My skin-care routine is pretty simple, but it always includes this. Once I get out of the shower and wash my face, I apply my night cream. This one feels great. It’s hydrating and feels like butter on my skin. It keeps me looking young and camera ready every morning.
Well, obviously, it’s all about the pasta. Honestly, pasta’s my favorite thing to make because you can add anything to it. It’s great for the carbs when you’re working out, and this is my favorite brand for dinners when I’m feeling fancy and want something a little extra special. It tastes incredible. It reminds me of the penne Siciliano I used to eat at SUR. I actually had it a couple nights ago when I DJ-ed at See You Next Tuesday.
Alo’s an amazing brand. Their stuff is very comfy. If I’m ever having a bad hair day — rare, but it happens — I reach for this trucker hat. It makes me feel like I’m Ashton Kutcher in the early 2000s. I love bringing that style back.
A white cotton T-shirt is like an old friend. It feels good and is always there for you. This is one of my go-tos. I’ve had mine for a while. I can wash it a ton, keep wearing it, and it looks and feels the same as it did on day one. Every time I wash it, it comes out great — nice and fresh. It’s super-comfortable and just easygoing. And my favorite thing is I can dress it up or down. I’d dress it up with black jeans and nicer shoes, or some shorts for a more daytime look.
I’ve been DJ-ing for a decade now. That’s a lot of concerts, a lot of club nights, a lot of gigs. I come back sometimes with my ears ringing — it’s come to that point — so I have to protect my ears. These don’t take away too much from the music, while still protecting my ears. They’re pretty well known in the DJ world and for musicians in general. They’re also good if you go to a lot of shows, you’re standing by speakers, and you’re not in your 20s anymore.
This is so essential. I make a lot of DJ videos and I’m on Instagram Live a lot, but I never really know what the setup’s going to look like. My selfie light lets me have consistent lighting anywhere I go, so I’m always looking good. I bring it to gigs, and even bring it to SUR for when I DJ. It’s also great for timed photos and the occasional selfie.
I’m always on the go, and I try not to travel with luggage. This backpack does it. I can throw all of my DJ equipment in here for a one-night gig: my laptop, headphones, wires, USB chips. And I can also fit in a spare T-shirt and even a wash bag. (There’s nothing worse than being stuck in a place without that.) This just looks really cool too. It’s stylish and lets me have all my essentials on me.
If you know me, you know I love wearing a good printed button-down with the top four buttons open. This shirt screams “summer.” I can’t wear it too often because the pattern is so bright, but when I do, I get nonstop compliments. It’s my favorite shirt to DJ in because I can move around in it, and I feel like the life of the party. Plus when you order from Kenny Flowers there’s a promo code for Malibu’s piña colada cocktail kit. I’ve had it myself and it’s incredible. It’s a great gift and brings people together for a great time.
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