Peggy Zabakolas’ Holiday Rules

For nearly a decade, Peggy has been a leading force in the real estate industry. As a member of the NYS Bar she has expertise in transactional law, property, contracts and zoning provisions. Peggy was one of the original, founding members of one of the most successful real estate teams in the country. Her in-depth understanding of law, finance and real estate has been the foundation on which she has built her own team of very talented agents and brokers, specializing in New York’s most active markets–Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Hamptons.

Peggy is able to seamlessly meld her vast knowledge of the inner workings of real estate with her extensive business acumen, and is often called upon to mentor and consult others in her field.  She has appeared as an expert commentator on Fox Business, among a wide array of other major media outlets and had a recurring role on Bravo TV’s Million Dollar Listing New York. In 2020 she became one of the stars of the Netflix original series Million Dollar Beach House. This year, she was seen in Discovery+’s latest series, Selling The Hamptons.

As a first-generation Greek, she takes pride in the hard work ethic her family instilled but doesn’t hesitate to put family first every step of the way – calling it the spark behind her drive. When free, she enjoys travelling, riding horses, cooking, baking, working out and even gardening on beautiful summer days.

Where are you jetting off to next?

Greece! It’s where my family is from, and one of my favourite places in the world. I may be biased, but the beaches, culture and food are breathtaking!

How will you spend your days?

I love excursions and understanding the local scene of what the place I’m visiting has to offer. I love immersing myself in the culture of wherever I am visiting, whether that’s local restaurants to really enjoy their cuisine or exploring the natural beauty of the country. I am also a big water baby, so you will definitely find me in the water, whether that’s floating while reading a book, on a boat swimming around or doing some physical activity.

What’s in your carry-on luggage?

If you’re checking a bag, I always recommend bringing a set of clothes for dinner and a beach outfit/bikini just in case something goes missing- you don’t want to be stranded wearing your airport outfit, so at least you’ll have one dinner outfit that you picked and a beach outfit that makes you feel confident! I drink a lot of water, so I always carry a refillable water bottle. Chargers for any electronics, sunglasses, Chapstick, a good book and a hat are important too!  I also started bringing a deck of cards, you just never know when you want to play a game with your travel partner!

Beauty essentials?

I am obsessed with Sea Buckthorn oil from Best Skin Ever. I use it as a daily face cleanser and when I go away I skip my entire face routine and just bring this and a moisturizer with SPF. I also cannot live without L’aneige lip sleeping mask. I use it all day!

What do you like to read?

I always love learning and being a better version of myself so I’m big into self-help books. Having said that, I have a long list of books that I need to catch up on, some of which my friends wrote that are thriller/adventure fiction.

Best travel tip?

You’re on vacation. Live in the moment and enjoy yourself!

Favourite travel memory?

Visiting my family in Greece as a little kid!

Your vacation style?

Anything with a beach and water that I can explore.  Let me wear a bikini, saltwater in my hair and sand on my toes, and I’m in heaven!

3 packing essentials?

ChapStick, a good SPF (especially for your face), a hat and comfy shoes!

Your packing advice?

The best advice I was ever given was to roll your clothes instead of folding them. It saves space and prevents wrinkles! Other than that, I try to pack clothing that can mix well with each other, and the least number of shoes possible to keep packing light. Plan out your outfits before going so that you have zero stress about “what to wear” while you’re away.  Start a packing list and continue to add to it after each trip. And finally, take risks with your outfits! You’re going on vacation – now is the time to wear that outfit that you may not have worn back home.

The one beauty product you can’t live without?

Chapstick! I’m obsessed with L’aneige.

What beauty trend will you be rocking this season

I’m not big on trends. I wear whatever makes me feel comfortable and sexy no matter what.

How would you define your style?

It all depends on what I’m doing and where I am. If I’m at work, I’m more simple, classy and chic with a little bit of spice – oh and my heels, I can’t live without my heels!  I love wearing an open back, a jumpsuit or something that looks basic with an unconventional twist or accent. When I am home and on the weekends, I am all about comfort!  I love my leggings and I am a total jean shorts and t-shirt girl. Honestly, whatever makes you feel sexy is the most important thing.

This season’s 3 wardrobe musts?

A good pair of jean shorts, a pair of oversized sunglasses (my go-to are my Chanel’s), and a bright statement purse.

What swimwear trend is a must this season?

Honestly, whatever makes you feel comfortable and sexy in your own skin. The sexiest and trendiest outfit anyone can ever wear is their confidence – own it girl! Don’t wait until you reach your “goal” to enjoy your body!