FLM: Appearance is an important aspect of being a news personality and connecting with your audience, compare your choice of fashion on TV versus what you wear away from the set.
LD: Funny that you ask that. I would love to be in shorts and flip flops all the time but that’s not realistic. When I’m not at work that’s likely what you’ll find me wearing. But fashion is one of the many ways we express ourselves and our culture. I love folkloric attire but can rarely pull it off. I tend to be a simple dresser, solid colors, and tailored attire. It just fits me best. Working in news, I think simple clothing and solid colors help keep the focus on the story we are sharing with Chicagoans.
FLM: One of your favorite designers is Carmen Seminario. Share why her fashion resonates with you.
LD: For this shoot I chose Carmen Seminario. She’s Peruvian and has made Chicago her home with the start of her Atelier in Lincoln Park. Not only is she a sweetheart of a human being but her designs are beautiful. Carmen has been designing both women’s gown dresses and men’s bespoke suits for over 14 years. Each piece is made custom to your measurements by her world class team in Peru. You can find her by visiting www.carmenseminario.com. She designed a dress for me last year during Latino Fashion Week. My friends said I looked like a Greek Goddess…I’ll take that. Thank you Carmen!
FLM: Boating with family and friends has been a favorite pastime for you since the pandemic. Besides being on the river and lake what are your 3 other favorite things to do in Chicago?
LD: Where do I begin? These days my favorite thing to do is play with my little one. It’s a chance to revisit all the fun that comes with being a 4-year-old. I really like cooking. My husband is way better at it which means I’m always learning from him. Recently, I’ve been interested in gardening. It’s a work in progress but I love spending time outdoors and trying new things. A few years ago, I took piano lessons. Unfortunately it didn’t stick – “Mary Had a Little Lamb” was as far as I got.
FLM: As one of Chicago’s favorite anchors what are your career goals over the next 5 years?
LD: I feel like I’ve been so fortunate to work at WGN that I can’t ask for anything else. I’ve been here for 16 years and can honestly say that I’ve loved every part of it, even when I had to wake up at 2am for the morning show. WGN continues to grow its brand with more shows and staff. I love telling stories from consumer to investigative. My goal is to keep finding stories that impact Chicagoans everyday life. Journalism is important!