Six Minutes with Marissa Galante Frank
New York–based Fashion Director of Accessories and Beauty at Bloomingdale’s, Marissa Galante Frank moves seamlessly between front row shows and everyday life. With a perspective shaped by craftsmanship, individuality, and modern intention, she shares her approach to luxury, career, and skin—just as RATIONALE launches into Bloomingdale’s BEAUTYSPACE across the US.
Do you have a favourite RATIONALE formulation? If so, what do you love most about it?
Honestly, it’s too hard to pick one but in terms of versatility and most used, the #4 The Nourishing Cleanser! I use it to double cleanse in the evenings and leave it on as a mask while I relax at home after work or prepare dinner. It softens and resets my skin.
In a sentence, how would you describe your world right now?
My world is vibrant and beautifully contrasting; one minute, I’m front row at a fashion show and the next, I am making dinosaur chicken nuggets for my kids. I’m so grateful for both.
As Fashion Director across Accessories + Beauty at Bloomingdale’s, how do you define modern luxury in 2026?
Modern luxury today is very intentional. Our customer is incredibly fashion-minded and appreciates craftsmanship, but she also wants pieces that feel personal and meaningful. Whether it’s a beautifully made handbag, a piece of jewelry with character, or a skincare product that truly delivers results, modern luxury is about quality, individuality, and the feeling that what you’re choosing reflects your personal style.
It’s now Spring in New York. How does the change in season influence your wardrobe, mindset, and beauty ritual?
Spring in New York always feels like a reset. After months of layers and darker tones, I naturally gravitate toward lighter textures, softer colors, and pieces that feel a little more relaxed. The same shift happens with beauty; I focus more on skin, hydration, and a fresh glow. There’s an optimism that comes with the season in the city. People are outside again, energy picks up, and it definitely influences how I get dressed and how I take care of myself.
What are your go-to New York recommendations? Whether it’s a spot, a ritual, or a small tradition that feels quintessentially you.
New York is incredibly special to me. My husband and I were married at St. Patrick’s Cathedral and had our reception at the Rainbow Room, which made the city part of one of the most meaningful days of my life. That said, I’ll forever be a downtown girl. I lived in Greenwich Village for 15 years and found so much peace in the sense of neighborhood and community there. For a great dirty martini, I love the bar at The Greenwich Hotel or Hotel Chelsea. For dinner, I’m always happy at Morandi or Palma. Both feel cozy, classic, and very New York. Marie’s Crisis is iconic. It’s my favorite place to sing and dance with friends.
For those building careers in fashion and beauty, what’s one piece of advice you wish you’d been given earlier?
I’ve been incredibly lucky to have so many role models and mentors throughout my career. The advice I always share is to really listen and stay curious. Early on, it’s important to remember that your boss is likely juggling far more than you see day to day, so think about how you can be helpful. How can you manage up? How can you take something off their plate? Asking thoughtful questions, anticipating needs, and showing initiative goes a long way.
What does great skin mean to you, especially during Fashion Month and the transition between seasons?
Fashion Month can be a lot of travel, late nights, and changing climates, so having a routine that protects and restores the skin is essential. When your skin feels good, you naturally wear less makeup and feel more confident. I feel best when my skin feels hydrated and balanced.
How did you first discover RATIONALE, and what made it stand out?
I first discovered RATIONALE through conversations within the beauty community and immediately became intrigued by the science behind the brand. What stood out is the level of research and intention behind every formula. It feels incredibly thoughtful and results-driven, which is something our customer really values.
As RATIONALE launches online and into key Bloomingdale’s BEAUTYSPACE stores across the US, what excites you most about bringing our brand to the Bloomingdale’s customer?
We’re always looking to introduce our customer to brands that feel both elevated and meaningful. RATIONALE brings a compelling perspective to skincare rooted in science and skin health, and I think that resonates strongly with today’s customer. It’s exciting to bring something new to our BeautySpace that feels distinctive and truly innovative.
What are your RATIONALE essentials, and why?
#4 The Nourishing Cleanser was the first product I tried, and I have not stopped using it since. It is hydrating and removes all of my makeup. I keep #6 The Rejuvenating Night Crème in a chic little box on my nightstand along with a few essentials like lip balm and my eye mask. It’s part of my nightly ritual and something I genuinely look forward to at the end of the day. I also love #3 The Tinted Serum Broad Spectrum SPF50+. On the weekends when I’m running around with my kids, it’s perfect on its own without makeup. It gives my skin a healthy glow while still feeling effortless.
