Kristin Cavallari is no stranger to reinvention. From her days as a breakout star on reality TV to becoming the powerhouse behind her lifestyle brand Uncommon James, her journey has been anything but predictable.

From Reality Star to Entrepreneur

Kristin first became a household name in the early 2000s as one of the standout stars of Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County, MTV’s groundbreaking reality series about the lives of high schoolers in Southern California. The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, sparking massive media attention and making Kristin a central figure in the captivating teen drama. She later took the spotlight again in The Hills, another beloved MTV series.

“I look at those experiences as radically different,” Kristin said reflecting on the highs and lows of being in the spotlight. Laguna Beach, in particular, was a tough introduction to fame. “We were manipulated into situations we wouldn’t normally experience. It was especially challenging for me as a 17-year-old,” she said.

By the time she joined The Hills, Kristin approached the role with more confidence. “I treated it like a job. I knew the character they wanted me to play, and I leaned into it. Filming was structured, and I kept a clear boundary between my on-screen and off-screen life. That made it fun—it was like playing a character in a movie.”

Over time, Kristin also learned to let go of the challenges that come with being in the public eye. “The headlines and tabloids used to feel huge at the time, but now, I can only remember two of them,” she said with a laugh.

“Everything passes. The key is to keep your eye on the bigger picture and not get bogged down by the noise.”

Her evolution continued with Very Cavallari in 2018, a series that chronicled her life as a business owner and mom. Determined to set her own terms, Kristin took on the role of executive producer. “This time, I wasn’t just the star—I was calling the shots behind the scenes.”

With her priorities firmly in place, Kristin established boundaries while filming the show. “I was home every day when my kids got back from school. My life wasn’t that exciting, honestly, and coming up with storylines sometimes felt like pulling teeth.”

The decision to prioritize her family and personal life over dramatic plotlines meant the show lacked the chaotic drama typical of reality TV, but for Kristin, it wasn’t about prolonging her reality television days. It was a strategic maneuver to introduce the world to Uncommon James.

The Birth of Uncommon James

Kristin’s jewelry brand was born from her love of accessories. “I’ve always been a shoe girl—jewelry, purses—because honestly, with great basics and killer accessories, that’s all you need.” And the brand’s name reflects another personal touch. “James is my daughter’s middle name, and it was also my brother’s middle name. I love it for a girl—it’s that perfect balance between masculine and feminine.”

Kristin launched Uncommon James without a formal business plan, relying on intuition instead. “I had no idea what I was doing,” she shared with a laugh. “But I knew the jewelry had to be effortless and versatile—pieces that people could mix and match with what they already owned.” Her experience designing a shoe line with Chinese Laundry had given her some valuable lessons in branding. “It taught me more about what not to do than what to do. But the biggest takeaway was learning to trust my gut. I realized I knew my customer better than anyone.”

One of Kristin’s most meaningful designs is the 11:11 Pendant Necklace. “I have 11:11 tattoo on my arm—it’s a reminder that I’m on the right path. Seeing 11:11 reassures me that I’m never alone.”

Uncommon James has since grown to include home goods and a clean skincare line. “People constantly asked me about my skincare routine, but when I sent my favorite products to a lab, I discovered they weren’t clean at all,” Kristin explained. “That inspired me to create something truly non-toxic.”

Committed to Clean Products

Kristin’s commitment to clean living wasn’t new—her father’s interest in health had already planted some seeds. But diving into skincare and fragrances opened her eyes even more.

“I was shocked to learn that fragrance companies don’t have to disclose all their ingredients. It blows my mind because fragrance is one of the most toxic things you can put on your body.” That revelation inspired her to create her first fragrance called Hard Feelings. “I wanted something sexy, feminine, but also a bit unisex. I’m really proud of what we created.”

For Kristin, it’s not just about selling products—it’s also about peace of mind. “My daughter wears our fragrance, and my sons use our skincare. I want to know that if my kids rummage through my stuff, it’s safe for them to use.” This commitment to transparency is at the heart of Uncommon James.

“It’s all about creating products I truly believe in, from jewelry to skincare, and knowing they’re good for the people using them.”

Cooking with Kristin

Kristin’s commitment to clean living traces back to her upbringing. “My dad was always on the cutting edge of health trends, so I grew up with that foundation.” However, it wasn’t until her first pregnancy that she fully embraced a clean lifestyle. “I decided to eat clean, but I didn’t deprive myself. I had carbs, cheese, sweets—everything, as long as it was clean. It was the healthiest relationship I’ve ever had with food.”

This passion for mindful eating inspired her series of cookbooks: True Roots, True Comfort, and Truly Simple. Each one reflects a different chapter of her journey. “True Roots is lighter, for spring and summer, while True Comfort is cozy and hearty, perfect for fall and winter,” she said. “And Truly Simple represents where I am now—balanced and less strict.”

Her go-to recipe? “The Bang Bang Chicken from Truly Simple. It’s a hit with both kids and adults—so flavorful and easy to make.” For a sweet treat, Kristin recommends her almond butter zucchini blondies. “They’re moist and delicious, and you can’t even taste the zucchini. It’s a great way to sneak in a veggie.”

Let’s Be Honest 

Beyond her work with brands and books, Kristin has ventured into podcasting with Let’s Be Honest, a platform for candid, thought-provoking conversations. Rather than focusing on celebrities, Kristin invites experts to share their insights. “Celebrities are so guarded. I get it—they’re trying to protect themselves, but that doesn’t always make for interesting conversations.”

Through the podcast, Kristin explores topics that genuinely intrigue her. Whether it’s wellness, relationships, or personal growth, she’s creating a space for honest dialogue. One standout episode featured Dr. Sherrie Campbell, a specialist in narcissistic abuse. “If you’ve experienced that kind of abuse, listening to her is like being seen for the first time. The stories are all so similar—it’s incredible.” Another favorite was her conversation with Dr. Daniel Amen, a neuroscientist known for his brain scans. “He scanned my brain, and it was one of the most fascinating conversations I’ve ever had.”

The podcast has given Kristin a platform to speak freely and connect with listeners on a deeper level. “I’m at a point in my life where I just don’t care anymore,” she said, laughing. “I’m not trying to build a career in entertainment, and I’m having fun with it.” Over the years, Kristin has become increasingly vocal about the world of Hollywood and celebrity culture. “People are starting to wake up to how much manipulation goes on, not just in Hollywood but also in politics,” she added. “I think people are craving real, honest conversations.”

She also reflected on how her approach to criticism has evolved as she’s grown older. “For most of my career, I dealt with negativity and criticism. I always said I didn’t care, but the truth is, I did—at least a little,” she admitted. “But now, something has shifted. Maybe it’s turning thirty-eight, or maybe it’s living a more normal life away from Hollywood, but I truly don’t care anymore. I don’t feel the need to play the game.”

An Inside Job 

Kristin’s perspective on happiness is refreshingly grounded, too.

“True happiness comes from within. It’s something only you can create for yourself.”

“For me, happiness means inner peace, and that comes from living life on my own terms,” she said.

This philosophy has been her compass through every chapter of life—whether navigating fame, building her business, or raising her family. “It’s about knowing who you are and what you need to feel your best. Once you figure that out, everything else tends to fall into place.”

Her perfect beach day reflects that same freedom. “I stay in a house right on the beach, have coffee with my feet in the sand, and just relax with my kids and friends. No agenda, no to-do list—just enjoying the moment. Day-to-day, my life is full, and balancing work with my kids’ activities can be overwhelming at times. That’s why a perfect vacation, for me, is one where there’s nothing on the calendar. It’s all about being present and letting go.”

And when it comes to favorite beach destinations, Cabo holds a special place in her heart, while Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A, with its laid-back vibe, reminds her of home. “Grayton Beach on 30A is one of my favorites because it’s so relaxed. There’s no pressure to look a certain way or to keep up appearances. It’s just casual and real.”

Kristin’s minimalist approach extends to her beach bag, too. “I don’t bring much—just a book, headphones, chapstick, sunglasses, and a hat.” But her commitment to wellness carries into her sunscreen choices. “I always opt for zinc oxide-based sunscreens, especially for my face.”

What’s Next for Kristin?

Looking ahead, Kristin’s gearing up for an exciting four-city podcast tour in March, stopping in Atlanta, Chicago, Boston, and New York. “I’m really looking forward to connecting with people in a new way.”

Beyond that, whether it’s running her business, hosting her podcast, or relaxing on the beach with family and friends, she’s found her peace and plans to hold onto it. Her advice for others wanting the same? “Reflect honestly on what you want and what genuinely brings you happiness. Don’t be afraid to pivot or let go of what no longer serves you.”

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