This week is a cosmic reminder that healing and harmony aren’t passive, they’re intentional practices. As July winds down, we begin the week with the moon in Virgo syncing with Mars in Virgo on Monday, inviting us to connect the dots and fine-tune the details of our lives. If you’ve been sitting on information or intuitions that haven’t quite clicked, this Virgo moon-Mars meet up could feel like a eureka moment. Pay attention to what your body is telling you too: this is some of the most clarifying astro-weather we’ve had in weeks, especially when it comes to health, scheduling, and getting back into your flow.

From Tuesday to Thursday, the Libra moon steps in and shifts our attention to our relationships and the balancing act of give and take. Mercury is still retrograde in Leo though, and with Saturn and Neptune also retrograde in Aries, we’re being asked to not just speak, but truly listen. This is not about people-pleasing or suppressing your needs, but about recalibrating how you engage in connection, whether that’s romantic, platonic, or professional. Tension could arise if egos clash, but underneath the surface, there’s an invitation to practice softness, to apologize without conditions, and to notice where control is getting in the way of genuine collaboration.

The most emotionally charged part of the week arrives on Wednesday, July 30th, when two major transits shake up the vibe. First, Chiron, the asteroid of inner wounds and healing, begins its retrograde in Aries. Over the next five months, we’ll be asked to revisit the parts of ourselves we’ve tried to “toughen up” or ignore. Chiron in Aries retrograde reminds us that vulnerability is not weakness… It’s where our strength is forged. That same night, Venus exits cerebral Gemini and glides into heart-centered Cancer, where it will stay for four weeks. Expect a collective shift from flirtation and detachment to craving closeness, comfort, and emotional security. But heads up: feelings may bubble up in waves, and passive-aggressive behaviors could rise if we aren’t expressing ourselves clearly.

Finally, we step into August on a deeply introspective note. The moon enters Scorpio on Thursday evening and stays there through Sunday, with a first quarter moon taking place Friday morning. This lunar phase pushes us out of reflection mode and into conscious action, but Scorpio’s energy won’t let us rush. Instead, we’re being guided to go deep before we go far. What are you truly committed to building this month? What are you done tolerating? As August begins, the cosmos invites us to get real with ourselves and trust that lasting transformation requires emotional honesty, courageous boundaries, and a willingness to evolve.

Read your horoscopes for your Sun and Rising signs for the most in-depth forecast.

Aries Sun & Rising:

This week, Chiron, the asteroid of inner wounds and healing, begins its five-month retrograde in your sign, Aries, joining Saturn and Neptune also currently retrograde in Aries. This cosmic trio is pulling your attention inward and asking you to examine patterns related to self-worth, self-sabotage, and your leadership identity. If you’ve been constantly charging ahead without processing how past wounds have shaped your sense of self, this retrograde invites you to slow down and listen. You may feel more tender than usual, and old narratives about being “too much” or “never enough” resurface. Instead of rushing to fix them, observe where they originated. This is a time to tend to yourself with gentleness and honesty. If you’ve been operating on autopilot, this transit reminds you that your healing is the most revolutionary act.

Venus enters Cancer on July 30th and shifts your focus to themes of home, roots, and emotional intimacy. Unlike the flirty, fast-paced energy of Venus in Gemini, Cancer energy is nostalgic, protective, and deeply felt. You might feel the urge to reconnect with family members or revisit childhood memories, or, alternately, to create new emotional foundations. Because Cancer squares off with Aries, you may feel tension between your desire to move fast and the need to soften and feel. But this tension can help you develop a more loving relationship with vulnerability. Let your softness be your strength, especially in love and when investing in your living environment.

Taurus Sun & Rising:

Taurus, this week Chiron begins its retrograde in Aries and activates a quieter, often hidden corner of your life: The space where your deepest fears, regrets, and unconscious habits reside. Over the next five months, you’ll be called to confront patterns of avoidance that may be holding you back from inner peace or self-compassion. Perhaps you’ve been keeping too busy to face certain truths, or numbing emotions that need expression. Saturn and Neptune’s retrogrades in Aries are also reinforcing this reflective energy, helping you build new spiritual muscles by acknowledging what’s real and releasing illusions. There’s medicine in your silence now,  and in your willingness to be present with it. This is a powerful time to journal, speak with a therapist, or return to ancestral healing practices.

When your planetary ruler Venus enters Cancer on July 30th, it brings sweetness and serenity to your communication style. Your words take on a nourishing, poetic quality, and people will naturally gravitate toward your grounded presence. Unlike Venus in Gemini, which had you multitasking and flirting with ideas, Venus in Cancer asks you to speak with intention and tenderness. You may receive affirmations or love notes from unexpected places, or feel called to share more vulnerably yourself. With Jupiter also in Cancer, this is an auspicious four-week cycle for manifesting abundance through heartfelt conversations, digital storytelling, or meaningful connections. Stay open to love coming through familiar or nearby places.

Gemini Sun & Rising:

Gemini, this week Chiron retrograde in Aries begins a five-month healing journey in the realm of your friendships and social alliances. You may realize that certain dynamics have become more performative than authentic, or that you’ve outgrown connections that once felt supportive. Alternatively, you may recognize how you haven’t always shown up as the friend you wished to be. This retrograde helps you redefine what loyalty, community, and support truly mean to you. It also brings insights into your digital presence: do your online interactions nourish you or drain you? With Saturn and Neptune also retrograde, you’re encouraged to take your vision for belonging more seriously, while letting go of performative expectations.

After four weeks of Venus in your sign boosting your magnetism and charm, Venus now glides into Cancer on July 30th, shifting your attention to security, self-worth, and material comfort. It’s time to take everything you learned during the past Venus cycle and apply it to your finances and sense of stability. With Jupiter also in Cancer, you’re entering one of the most prosperous periods of the year — but only if you’re aligned with your values. Be intentional with your spending, romantic commitments, and affirmations. Moodiness may arise as you navigate emotional attachments to money or love, so allow space to feel without rushing to fix.

Cancer Sun & Rising:

Cancer, this week Chiron, asteroid of inner wounds, begins its five-month retrograde journey through your career and public legacy zone. You may find yourself questioning your path or feeling more sensitive to criticism, especially if you’ve been chasing validation through external achievement. The universe is asking: do you still want what you once did, or have your goals evolved? With Saturn and Neptune also retrograde in Aries, you’re being asked to reconsider your long-term vision and remove any limiting beliefs or shame-based ambitions. This retrograde helps you heal wounds around feeling like you need to prove yourself. Be gentle with yourself if old fears about “success” or visibility arise.

Venus, the planet of love and beauty, enters your sign on July 30th, and with Jupiter already here, this transit marks a period of magnetic radiance and emotional receptivity. After the whirlwind pace of Venus in Gemini, you may find yourself craving softness, sweetness, and deep emotional intimacy. Romance feels more sentimental now, and even platonic relationships take on a more nurturing tone. This is a beautiful time to pamper yourself, revamp your personal style, or call in love that feels like home. But be mindful of mood swings or emotional codependency… the more you pour into yourself, the more love you’ll magnetize.

Leo Sun & Rising:

Leo, it’s time to expand. Chiron retrograde in Aries activates your spiritual, philosophical, and visionary terrain for the next five months. You may begin to unpack wounds connected to your worldview. Perhaps you’re realizing that a belief you’ve carried since childhood is no longer serving you. Or maybe you’ve been silently yearning for deeper meaning but didn’t know where to begin. This retrograde encourages you to question what you’ve been taught and to explore paths that feel truer to your evolving self. With Saturn and Neptune also retrograde, you’re entering a soul-searching chapter where your higher self becomes your primary guide. Pay attention to what inspires or unsettles you. Both are clues for your healing.

Venus shifts into Cancer on July 30th, guiding you to nurture yourself from behind the scenes. You may feel less socially extroverted and more emotionally introspective over the next four weeks. Venus in Cancer brings healing through softness, music, art, and spiritual retreat. It’s also a powerful time for dreamwork and energetic clearing. Romance may feel more tender, and old loves could resurface in dreams or memories. You’re learning to trust that emotional depth isn’t weakness, it’s your soul asking to be honored in ways you may have previously overlooked.

Virgo Sun & Rising:

No more hiding, Virgo. This week, Chiron retrograde begins its five-month journey through your intimacy, vulnerability, and emotional merging sector. You may be called to revisit wounds around trust, shame, or codependency — especially in relationships where you’ve either over-given or held back out of fear. With Saturn and Neptune also retrograde in Aries, the universe is guiding you to reevaluate how much emotional labor you give, and to whom. This retrograde invites you to reclaim your power in partnerships and recognize your needs without guilt. Sexual healing, shadow work, and financial reviews (especially shared assets) could also come into focus.

Venus enters Cancer on July 30th, lighting up your social and networking energy. Unlike Venus in Gemini, which had you focused on public perception and career moves, Venus in Cancer wants you to build connection with kindred spirits. You’re craving more heart in your friendships and professional collaborations. This four-week transit encourages you to let your emotional intelligence lead, and reminds you that your softness is your superpower. Be open to meeting new people or reconnecting with friends who feel like family. And if you’ve been dreaming of building a team or launching a group project, this Venus cycle supports doing so from a space of care and vision.

Libra Sun & Rising:

Libra, are you ready for a relationship review? Chiron’s retrograde begins this week in Aries, your opposite sign, placing your one-on-one connections under the microscope. This isn’t just about love, it’s about energy exchanges. Whether it’s romantic, platonic, or professional, any partnership that’s been out of balance will make itself known. What wounds are you still carrying from past entanglements? Over the next five months, you’ll have chances to unpack those patterns and release the pressure to fix or be fixed by others. With Saturn and Neptune also retrograde, accountability is the real love language. Take time to notice who energizes you vs. who drains you. Your own reflection may offer the deepest insight.

Professionally, your softness becomes your superpower. Venus enters Cancer on July 30th, illuminating your public image and long-term goals. After Venus in Gemini’s social whirl, this is a shift into soul-led ambition. People are paying attention to your presence, not just your performance, so let them see your heart, not just your highlight reel. You may feel called to pursue projects that feel emotionally fulfilling, or to nurture a new version of success on your own terms. Just be cautious of over-identifying with your career. You’re more than your job title. Let your inner world guide your outer climb.

Scorpio Sun & Rising:

Scorpio, it’s time for a wellness wake-up call. Chiron retrograde begins this week in Aries, pointing directly at your health and daily rituals. Where have you been running on fumes, ignoring the signs? Over the next five months, your body and mind will be asking for deeper care and slower rhythms. This retrograde isn’t here to punish — it’s here to restore. Whether through journaling, moving your body differently, shifting your diet, or setting better work/life boundaries, healing wants to become a lifestyle, not just an occasional reset. With Saturn and Neptune also retrograde, your spiritual alignment is just as important as your physical stamina. Be honest about what you need, even if it means doing less.

When it comes to love and abundance, your intuition is the key. Venus enters your fellow Water sign, Cancer, on July 30th, turning your attention toward expansion, travel, and belief systems. After four weeks of navigating intimacy and depth via Venus in Gemini, this is a breath of sweet emotional renewal. If you’re single, this transit might open romantic doors through cultural or intellectual connections. If you’re partnered, new adventures or heartfelt conversations will bring you closer. And if you’re simply focused on yourself, you’ll be craving experiences that nourish your soul, not just your status. Let love and creativity flow through new channels. Say yes to what stirs your wonder.

Sagittarius Sun & Rising:

Sagittarius, your inner child is calling. Chiron begins its five-month retrograde in Aries, inviting you to revisit old wounds around play, creativity, romance, and self-expression. Have you ever felt like you had to shrink your joy to be taken seriously? This transit asks you to remember what it feels like to be fully alive, and to examine who or what made you question that in the first place. Creative blocks, fear of rejection, or past heartbreaks may rise to the surface. Let them teach you, not define you. With Saturn and Neptune retrograde too, this is a soul excavation. It’s not about rushing to produce, but about feeling safe to create again, for you, not for applause.

In love and finances, deeper intimacy becomes the theme. Venus moves into Cancer on July 30th, activating your emotional and energetic exchanges. After four weeks of flirtation and banter via Venus in Gemini, you’re ready to merge or move on. You crave connection that feels safe, sacred, and reciprocated. Your sensuality is heightened at this time, but so is your protectiveness. Don’t let fear of vulnerability keep you locked out of what you actually want. This is also a time to review your financial entanglements. Are you sharing resources with people who respect your boundaries? Clarity and compassion go hand in hand this season.

Capricorn Sun & Rising:

Capricorn, your past is resurfacing with a purpose. Chiron retrograde begins in Aries, opening a five-month portal to explore wounds connected to family, ancestry, and your sense of safety. Even if everything looks solid externally, your inner foundation wants tending. Where did your self-sufficiency begin as a survival tactic, and where can it transform into self-nurturing now? This isn’t a moment of weakness — it’s a period of recalibration. With Saturn and Neptune retrograde too, reflection will help you reconnect with younger versions of yourself who never stopped needing softness. Let this be the season where you finally release the pressure to hold it all.

Love gets sweeter, slower, and softer this week. Venus glides into Cancer on July 30th, directly opposite your sign, heightening your sensitivity to matters of the heart. Where Venus in Gemini had you thinking your way through love, Venus in Cancer invites you to feel your way through. You’ll crave safety, loyalty, and reciprocity more than ever. If someone feels like home, you’ll know it. And if they don’t, you won’t be able to fake it. This is also a powerful time for reconnection or recommitment in existing relationships. Show up with your heart open — but not unguarded. Boundaries can coexist with love.

Aquarius Sun & Rising:

Aquarius, communication is your medicine. Chiron retrograde in Aries highlights wounds around how you speak, how you’re heard, and how you listen. Have you been silencing yourself to keep the peace, or speaking too fast to be truly present? This retrograde helps you unpack the stories you’ve been told about your voice and rewire the way you share your truth. With Saturn and Neptune also retrograde, even the simplest texts or convos might reveal hidden layers. Give yourself the grace to pause, rethink, and revise. Not everything needs to be said, but some things do need to be said differently.

Your daily rituals and love life both want more tenderness. Venus shifts into Cancer on July 30th, softening your approach to routine, wellness, and affection. Where Venus in Gemini brought spontaneity and curiosity, Venus in Cancer asks for consistency and care. In your work and relationships, little acts of love will go the furthest: morning check-ins, intentional meals, handwritten notes. If you’ve been feeling scattered, this transit helps ground you emotionally. It’s also a perfect time to beautify your workspace or create rituals that feel like self-hugs. Let comfort become part of your schedule.

Pisces Sun & Rising:

Pisces, it’s time to rewrite your worth story. Chiron begins its five-month retrograde in Aries, illuminating how past wounds may be impacting your relationship with money, self-worth, and value. Where have you accepted less because you feared being “too much”? This transit is about healing the urge to prove your worth and instead standing in it, quietly and unapologetically. With Saturn and Neptune retrograde in your sign, the inner work is undeniable. Don’t shy away from financial planning or self-advocacy during this time. You’re building something sustainable, one boundary and one belief shift at a time.

Romance this week gets dreamier, but also a bit moodier. Venus glides into Cancer on July 30th, activating your pleasure, dating, and creativity zone. After the cerebral whirlwind of Venus in Gemini, you’re ready to feel deeply and express boldly. This is a powerful time to dive into love, art, or both — but with a Cancer twist: protect what you cherish. Your intuition is heightened, so trust the vibes. If someone, or something, feels like home, lean into it. Just don’t let nostalgia pull you back into cycles you’ve outgrown. Remember, Pisces: love doesn’t have to hurt to be real.

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How To Date, According To Your Star Sign

For Clueless costume designer Mona May, there’s a psychology to crafting a character’s wardrobe. “I think authenticity is one of the most important things when you design costumes, to make sure these characters feel real, and not just like talking Barbies,” she tells Refinery29. “You want the audience to leave the theater and feel like, ‘There was something about that character that felt like me.’”

For a film as far-fetched as the 1995 classic, starring Alicia Silverstone as a spoiled Beverly Hills high school student, grounding the characters in reality was crucial. Yes, these affluent teenagers had access to runway fashion and daddy’s credit card, but May also wanted to portray girls who loved the mall and were youthful and vibrant.

While May — whose book The Fashion of Clueless is coming out in October — had no idea what a cultural phenomenon the movie, which celebrates 30 years this month, would become, she knew the costumes were crucial to the storytelling. From the introductory shot — which showed a montage of glitzy high schoolers poolside, cruising in high-end cars, and shopping in their finest threads — fashion was the focus. “It was colorful, it was California, it was high-fashion, it was teenage fun. It had to immediately grab your eye,” she says.

Pulling together thousands of costumes — 63 of them belonging to Cher (Silverstone) alone — on a $200k budget was no small task, according to May: “[We had to find] every headpiece, every backpack, every pair of sunglasses, every piece of jewelry seen. I don’t even know how I did it, seriously, but we just went for it.” She emphasizes that the film was made in the mid-‘90s, before social media made it easy to discover and access fashion. “It was just the beginning of computers and cell phones, so my research was different. People behaved differently. There was a certain kind of innocence to the time as well,” she says.

Because of that, May felt it was important to establish sartorial social cues (ie: graphic tees for the skaters, exposed slip and stockings with runs for a scattered teacher, etc.), as well bring attention to culturally relevant designer labels (the Calvin Klein slip dress that Cher’s dad refers to as “underwear,” and “totally important designer” Alaïa dress) to the audience not privy to Melrose Avenue.

Because the cast was fairly unknown at the time, there were no giant “PR machines” sending boxes from fashion houses to dress the actors. Still, May enlisted luxury labels for looks such as Cher’s iconic yellow plaid skirt set by Jean Paul Gaultier, along with pieces from Fred Segal and Anna Sui. She also pulled pieces from secondhand stores, army surplus shops, and then-popular mall brands: Body Glove, Roxy, BCBG, Gap, American Rag, Esprit, Vertigo, and Wet Seal (RIP). By combining designer names with mall mainstays, May says she was able to bring out the multifacetedness of each character.

“Dionne [played by Stacey Dash] is a really good example of that. She wears a lot of different things, from high-end Chanel to the leopard jacket that was thrifted and the vinyl skirt that was from a rave store on Melrose,” May explains. Cher also embodied the juxtaposition, sporting preppy co-ords as much as she did cap-sleeved dresses, while also dipping into the soft grunge looks popular at the time, like her layered black sheer top and chunky jewelry. “She’s not just one kind of girl. She’s good-hearted, discerning, but can also be a bit of a mean girl, too.”

May believes the style holds strongly three decades later because, in many ways, the cult classic was ahead of its time. The movie was nuanced in its portrayal of teenage girls, who were fashion-obsessed and naive, but also quick-witted and opinionated. There was a complexity to them — one May felt a responsibility to translate through their clothing. “It was hard to make that movie,” she says. “[Director] Amy [Heckerling] said that many studios passed on it because they didn’t want girls to talk like this. They wanted movies about boys. It was important to introduce young girls speaking that way: being smart, being self-assured, and knowing what they want. Smart girls deserved smart clothes.”

May made sure that the outfits reflected each of the characters’ personalities: Dionne’s bold accessories and prints spoke to her spunky personality, Cher’s meticulously coordinated shoes and outfits spoke to her perfectionism. Meanwhile, Tai (Brittany Murphy) had an evolving wardrobe — which went from baggy flannels and graphic tees at the beginning of the film to Cher-approved plaids and finally a happy grunge-meets-girly medium — that spoke to her journey of losing, rediscovering, and coming into herself.

With so many characters to dress, the looks had to work together as well, like Cher and Dionne’s coordinated school looks. On one hand, it brought to mind a familiar scenario of phoning your friend to plan outfits the night before school and, on the other, it symbolized that the two were counterparts. “Throughout the film, I wanted to make sure that they were equally fashionable, equally important,” says May.

Given that the film was set in Southern California, May felt it was important to also portray the many subcultures, from the posh upper echelon to skaters, stoners, and the business-casual kids who took themselves too seriously. Though they were all living in this platinum credit card world, Dionne’s and Murray’s style, for example, was culturally relevant for Black American teenagers at the time, with the Kangol hats, leopard print, and gold jewelry. May accomplished this authenticity by working with each actor to build the character’s wardrobe together.

Dash, for example, was slightly older, from New York, and had a strong sense of personal style, which played a huge role in constructing her character’s look. In turn, according to May, “Murray [Donald Faison’s character] had to look really good too, because she would never date a slacker.”

The same care was extended to Christian Stovitz (Justin Walker), the suave transfer student from Chicago, who we later find out is gay. May wanted the clothing to lead with his personality and interests — like fashion, which resulted in him wearing hats, a blue tuxedo, and slicked-back hair — and not be a reductive version of what a gay character might “look” like (which wasn’t a given at the time for the industry).

The fashion in Clueless cemented May’s signature style across all her works — which later included other cult classics like Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion and Never Been Kissed — and gave the movie its staying power. It’s the reason why not a single Halloween goes by without a Cher and Dionne recreation, why clothing collections in 1995 and thereafter exploded with Clueless-inspired threads, and why 30 years later, we are still celebrating the film that introduced Alaïa into many of our vocabularies.

“It’s just incredible that this movie has lived in so many people’s hearts. It’s changed them and made them feel good. I’m so proud, I’ll have a pink bow on my grave.”

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I’ll admit that I’m not the biggest AI enthusiast. Among writers like me, AI is sort of like the big bad (unspoken) wolf that threatens to rob us of our livelihoods. So when I was given the chance to create my own bespoke ‘dream scent’ with the help of AI robots, you’d best believe I approached the experience with a healthy dose of skepticism. But as someone who’s always struggled to find her signature scent, and who has a very personal relationship with fragrance through synesthesia (I can see what some perfumes smell like), I was also intrigued — and up for the challenge.

Enter: Algorithmic Perfumery by EveryHuman, which allows users to create their unique fragrance with the help of AI. The brainchild of Anahita Mekanik — who had previously worked alongside perfumers at various fragrance brands — and ‘artist-technologist’ Frederick Duerinck, it’s self-described as “The first global AI-guided scent-making platform.” The duo’s driving motivation? To democratize the fragrance industry so anyone can become a creator. “Our mission is about creative agency,” Mekanik tells me. “We believe every human is a creator and should be able to create something that reflects them, especially something as intimate and historically exclusive as perfume,” adds Mekanik.

It might sound ironic, but despite being an AI brand, the team insist Algorithmic Perfumery was also developed to bring more of a personal touch to perfumery: “The platform is an enabler to create something truly personal and not something marketed to you,” Mekanik explains. “You borrow the algorithm and collaborate with it.”

The algorithm they speak of? It’s one I now have firsthand experience with. The process starts with setting up an account with EveryHuman, followed by a series of (increasingly unexpected) questions designed to match you to scent combinations that are just right for you. These include multiple-choice prompts such as, ‘I answered these questions…’ with options like ‘to impersonate my favorite character,’ or ‘from the perspective of one of my multiple personalities’. Then there are more specific questions about the kind of scents you like (florals? Woody notes? Smoky scents?). You also rank yourself on a sliding scale for queries like, ‘Do you want your perfume to be more night or day?’, and ‘How would you describe yourself: analytical or intuitive?’

This part of the process felt, admittedly, like a strange fever dream, and I wondered what the relevance of which shapes I prefer or how emotionally stable I consider myself was to the creation of a perfume. But it also had me hooked: as someone who has a level of synesthesia, where one sense (like smell) automatically sparks a reaction in another (like sight or taste), I openly embrace the creative connection between smell, memory, emotion, and personality.

After completing my weird-yet-wonderful questionnaire, I waited for my three personalized scent vials to arrive by mail. Intrigued to see how well a computer programme could truly know what my nose liked, I was unsure what to expect when I pulled back the sleeve of my box. In true Goldilocks and the Three Bears style, when I smelled my scents, it turned out to be a case of too much, too little and just enough.

The first, a fruity, floral concoction blending clean white musk, spring-like apple blossom, and neroli (a lightweight, citrusy floral), was just too strong for me. Both apple (or orange) blossom and neroli are two notes I actively dislike because they are very potent florals that can overwhelm other ingredients, so I wish there’d been space within the questionnaire to mention notes you want to avoid. The next, with rose, peach, and again, more white musk, smelled old-fashioned to me and didn’t give me much.

Luckily, my third creation, a woody, smoky elixir combining incense (1.6% perfume oil) and tobacco (16.7% perfume oil), was perfectly up my street. It smelt rich and seductive when sprayed onto the skin, but the powdery and soft, delicate blush notes added a touch of sweetness when it dried down on my skin. While it reminded me of certain scents I’d already owned and loved, there was something I couldn’t quite put my finger on about placing the smell of this, most likely because it was a completely bespoke creation — something that made up for it not coming in a fancy bottle.

I loved that the fragrance lingered on not only my skin, but in the air and on my clothes when I sprayed it, which meant the 5ml size (FYI, you can buy individual 30ml and 50ml bottles, too) lasted much longer. This one really felt like my own personal secret scent that smelled expensive, cool and, of course, unique. I couldn’t wait to wear it out and answer, “Oh, I created it myself,” to anyone asking where it was from.

My favorite part of the process was the 20-minute follow-up one-to-one ‘scent coaching’, essentially a Zoom call, which all users have access to as part of the £45 experience that includes three creations. Speaking with a perfumer at the brand, you have the opportunity to tweak your fragrances in tune with your preferences and then receive your new options in the mail several days afterward. Alternatively, you can change certain concentrations yourself online if you’d prefer to skip the call. We decided the fruity, floral scent — labelled 01 — needed to lose the blossom and white musk, and integrate florals I preferred, whereas we agreed my favorite, 03, would benefit from being a little more powdery. The personal touch this added to the process was a surprise to me, as I always insisted that I’d hate anything touched by AI.

This is one of the brand’s biggest selling points — and a key appeal of AI’s role in perfumery overall. Instead of taking away the intimacy and individuality of perfume making (by handing it over to a robot), it actually opens the doors for more: “More people want fragrances that feel personal; something beyond what they’ll find on a department store shelf,” says perfumer Gustavo Romero. “They want to smell like themselves, or like a specific moment in their lives. AI makes that kind of custom approach more accessible.”

AI perfumery brands — along with several industry insiders — also agree that this introduction can complement the work of top perfumers. Recent examples of this — in the mainstream, no less — include the creation of Prada’s Paradoxe Virtual Flower fragrance. Master perfumers Nadège Le Garlantezec, Shyamala Maisondieu, and Antoine Maisondieu worked alongside AI as a ‘creative partner’ to develop their AI jasmine accord.

Thibaud Crivelli, founder and creative director at perfume brand Maison Crivelli, says that although he doesn’t use AI in his creative process, it allows perfumers the freedom to use it if needed: “The talent of the most renowned perfumers relies on the duality between science and artistry,” he tells me. “If AI becomes a technical tool supporting the creative process, it could complement the artistic approach of perfumers and not replace it.”

For Alex Wiltschko, founder and CEO of Generation by Osmo, a fragrance house backed by Olfactory Intelligence (OI), AI is democratizing the fragrance industry for brands and creators of all sizes — and making it far more efficient. “It has streamlined fragrance creation, automating repetitive tasks, which allows perfumers to spend less time on manual toil and more time on crafting bespoke fragrances,” he tells me. The future, he says, is limitless: “There have only been 100,000 fragrances ever made because the traditional process is costly and time-consuming, but I want that number to be millions.”

The downside? The more manufactured ‘bespoke’ fragrances there are out there, the less individualistic — and appealing — they become. “Ironically, the more people crave something unique, the more they seem to value the human touch behind it,” believes Romero. The double-edged sword doesn’t stop there. Amanda Carr, a fragrance writer and trend forecaster, points out that there is real concern within the fragrance industry that while AI systems could improve efficiency, they may also result in job losses for the humans they are replacing. This ultimately could lead to a loss of personalized creativity, notes Crivelli.

I agree that the greatest tool for finding your signature scent is your nose, not a computer. But AI systems are now helping to put us on the right track and to verbalize what we actually like. Whether the complexities of AI perfumery are of concern to you or not, one thing we can all agree on is that brands like EveryHuman — and their Algorithmic Perfumery system — are bringing something new to the table, which allows us to become the perfumers. These developments also serve as a reminder that within the world of beauty, technology continues to be at the heart of modern innovation — and it shows no signs of slowing down.

This story was originally published on Refinery29 UK.

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I’m a naturally nosy person. I enjoy eavesdropping on conversations in restaurants, stealing glances at WhatsApp messages on the Tube and eyeing up other people’s lunches in the office. But as R29’s deputy beauty director, I’m most intrigued by everyone’s beauty routines, specifically those that take place in the private moments before bed.

Lately, I’ve been drawn to “get unready with me” videos over GRWM. Dermatologists have recently extolled the virtues of evening showers over morning ones, while beauty enthusiasts have popularized the concept of the “morning shed”: removing the skin, hair and other beauty products that they slept in the night before. (Heatless curls need to be unravelled, lip tints peeled off and fake tan rinsed away.)

Whether you consider yourself a minimalist or a maximalist, the self-care advantages of a bedtime beauty routine aren’t to be sniffed at. With that in mind, I asked R29 staffers to share theirs with me. From the benefits of an unctuous lip mask to the underrated appeal of a water flosser, here’s everything the team uses before bed.

Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer

My nighttime beauty routine starts in the shower. After washing my hair and body, I like to anoint myself with a few drops of Aromatherapy Associates’ De-Stress Muscle Bath & Shower Oil and breathe in the relaxing notes of lavender, rosemary, and ginger. My skincare routine comes afterwards: I remove my makeup with a cleansing oil — right now I’m using SON&PARK’s Beauty Water Cleansing Oil — then use the Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser to gently exfoliate. Then, I use Tatcha’s Texture Tonic and Lenox & Sixteenth’s Laser Serum, which has been my hero serum ever since I interviewed the founder, Amy Peterson. I moisturize with Sofie Pavitt Face’s Omega Rich Moisturizer — another incredible launch from earlier this year that I’m utterly obsessed with.

Depending on the time of the year, my skin will get a bit dry even after applying skincare, so I keep a bottle of Nocturnal’s Polar Night Renewal Serum, which helps my skin rejuvenate while I catch some beauty sleep. This is also when I apply lip balm to help hydrate my lips overnight — my favorite is Summer Fridays’ Lip Butter Balm in Sweet Mint. I absolutely swear by silk pillowcases, which make my bed feel like a sanctuary. I recently got married, so right now my husband and I are snoozing on monogrammed ones by Slip. I also got a sleep mask from Drowsy, a British brand, and it’s like a little pillow for your eyes. Bliss. My last sleep essential is my Oura ring, which has really helped me home in on my biometric stressors and encourage better sleep hygiene. The first thing I do every morning is check my Sleep Score, and nothing starts my day better than getting a crown (Oura-speak for above-average performance). What can I say? I’m just a Virgo who loves the satisfaction of a job well done!

Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director

I can’t get into bed without washing the day off. In a bid to be more eco-friendly, I shelved my plastic body puff (which should be changed frequently and only ends up in landfill) for a silicone loofah, which can be cleaned and reused time and time again. It’s also replaced my physical exfoliating scrub. When it comes to shower gel, nothing beats Dove Pamper Body Wash With Shea Butter & Vanilla. The lather is rich and creamy and the smell is so comforting, I’m convinced it helps me fall asleep. When I’m dry, I slather my legs in Vaseline’s Gluta-Hya Flawless Glow Serum In Lotion, which absorbs in seconds, and apply foot cream. If I’m washing my hair, I reach for Typebea’s Strength & Length Shampoo and Strength & Length Conditioner, which I’m convinced have significantly boosted my slow hair growth, followed by what is the best hair oil of all time: Kérastase Elixir Ultime. Nothing makes my hair as soft and shiny.

For my hair, all I need to do is rough-dry it for a few minutes with the Shark FlexStyle, and it’s smooth and frizz-free. I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s changed both my hair and my life. Gone are the days of painstakingly blow-drying or straightening it before bed.

I always double cleanse to remove every single scrap of makeup and sunscreen; I love Dr. Idriss’ Soft Wash Complete Daily Cleanser, which is gentle on my reactive skin but cuts through even waterproof foundation and mascara. The evening is when I ramp up my skincare with retinoids to keep my hormonal skin in check. (I always floss and brush before applying my skincare so as not to rinse it away accidentally.) I’ve been using The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion but recently I’ve graduated to tretinoin (a stronger prescription retinoid), recommended by consultant dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed through Get Harley, an online dermatology service. I practice the sandwich method using a substantial moisturizer (currently Aestura Atobarrier365 Cream), putting one layer of face cream, followed by the retinoid and then another layer of face cream. Lastly, I apply a little cuticle oil to encourage stronger nails (L’Occitane Shea Nail and Cuticle Nourishing Oil) and turn out the light!

Venus Wong, senior writer

I can only fall asleep knowing that my skin and hair are sparkling clean, pillowy soft, and smell amazing — and I entrust a suite of products, primarily from Japanese and Korean brands, to help me achieve this goal. First, I double cleanse, starting with the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil, which is great at melting off my SPF and makeup without stripping my skin barrier, followed by Innisfree Cherry Blossom Glow Jam Cleanser. The latter leaves my face fresh but not too dry and I love the fruity-floral scent and rich lather. I’m all about heavily perfumed body washes and LUSH’s Sleepy Shower Gel never fails to help me unwind; the rich tonka and lavender scent is so soothing. My hair routine is pretty basic: I gravitate towards products that maintain hydration without weighing my hair down, and Living Proof’s Perfect hair Day (PhD) Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner is my favorite combo lately. The proprietary ingredient mimics the benefits of silicone (without the buildup on the scalp), leaving my hair bouncy and squeaky clean without weighing it down.

The rest of my routine has been drastically pared down lately, as it’s been so hot, and I really can’t be bothered. When I get out of the shower, I spray Curél’s Deep Moisture Spray all over my body. Curél is a Japanese drugstore brand I’ve relied on since my teens and I’m really happy to see it become available everywhere now. Its products are rich in ceramides, which help repair the skin barrier and keep it supple and hydrated. I also like that this product can be sprayed upside down, which helps me reach the dry patches on my back. For the face, I do a “mini mask” by placing Mediheal’s Teatree Facial Toner Pads on my cheeks for several minutes. This was a skincare discovery I wrote about after a trip to Seoul last year; it’s a popular K-beauty hack for calming redness and acne, thanks to the tea tree essence. I follow with a sleeping mask so I can wake up with supple skin without doing tons of work. My nightly staple is Erno Lazlo’s Hydra-Therapy Memory Gel Sleep Mask, which has a fun, jello-like texture and plumps the skin with moisturizing vitamin E and prickly pear extract. On the weekends, I pamper myself with Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Everything Eye Patches as a treat for my under eyes, or use Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Mask if my skin has been particularly dry. For fragrance, I love the clean and feminine scent of Elizabeth Arden’s White Tea Eau Florale Eau de Toilette and douse myself in it before climbing into bed. I also spray Gisou’s Honey Infused Hair Perfume onto my ends, which provides me with sweet, comforting whiffs of honey when I toss and turn at night.

L’Oréal Blackett, Unbothered editor

My evening routine is all about relaxing before bed, scrubbing away the grime of the world, and plucking rogue hairs out of my chin. It’s not pretty, but a very functional routine to help me maintain my zen. I always start by getting my hair out of my face; the method varies depending on whether I have a sew-in or I’m wearing a half-wig or clip-ins. I usually take out my clips and hairpins, then put my hair into messy chunky twists to help prevent tangling, tie them back in a bobble, wrap with a silk scarf and cover with an extra-large bonnet I got at my local Afro beauty store. If my scalp needs it, I will add a hair serum (currently Cécred’s Nourishing Hair Oil) to tide me over until my next wash day or weave takedown.

Next up, I double cleanse to remove my makeup. I prefer a balm cleanser, such as Elemis’ Pro Collagen Cleansing Balm, then I go in with my trusty Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash. It’s non-drying, helps remove any lingering makeup and is affordable. I’ve used it since I was 12 — that’s my definition of a holy-grail product! I floss with dental picks, scrub my teeth with an electric brush and gargle with mouthwash — you know the drill. In the shower, I also double cleanse my body; I just don’t feel right without a good, long soak. First, I use a bar of antibacterial soap by Dettol. My grandma introduced me to Dettol baths as a kid, helping to keep acne on my chest and back clean, and it’s still a step I refuse to skip. For a good lather, I go in with Dove’s Deeply Nourishing Body Wash with an African net sponge made from nylon — they are really easy to keep clean and sanitary in your shower.

If I’m in the mood, I shave my legs, pits and bits to save me from doing it in the morning. A shower oil comes next. I’ve recently run out of the popular almond shower oil by L’Occitane, so I switched to ESPA’s Restorative Bath and Body Oil and it is perfect for before bed. You either add it directly to your bath or directly to your skin while wet, and the scent mix of essential oils makes me so sleepy. After hopping out of the shower, I speed through my skincare routine. Depending on the last time I dermaplaned, I will go in with my Venus dermaplaner to get rid of some of my peach fuzz (be careful, I’ve sliced my finger open with this thing multiple times).

Irina Grechko, senior content director, fashion

I often work out at night, so the first step in my nighttime routine is to shower. If I am washing my hair, I use the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Shampoo and Conditioner, made for those with long, fine hair. I follow it with a nourishing amika Soulfood Nourishing Mask, applied with a detangling wet brush. I leave the mask on as I wash my body with Nivea’s Basil & White Tea Shower Gel and “floss” my teeth with a waterproof Waterpik because I still haven’t figured out how to use it without getting water all over the floor.

After a shower, I use a microfiber-towel turban to let my hair slightly dry, before using a Yves Durif Vented Brush (my hairstylist Olya Iudina got me hooked on it; you can use it on both wet and dry hair). I will then moisturize my body while it’s still damp. I’m in love with the body oil from Officine Universelle Buly, the French brand that has gone viral for its personalized lip balm. It smells divine and is the best body oil I have ever used. It nourishes the skin without leaving it oily.

I alternate my skincare routine. Every other day, I start my nighttime prep by washing my face with a Dieux Baptism Gel Cleanser. It foams beautifully, leaves my skin feeling clean, and smells so good. I use the Glossier Milky Oil Makeup Remover to get rid of any eye makeup that may have lingered. The biggest issue that my skin faces is dehydration, so I don’t apply any serums or creams without spraying my face with Mario Badescu’s Facial Spray first to create a base layer of moisture. I will then follow it with Sunday Riley’s A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum. Because my skin is on the drier side, face oils work best for me at night. Since it’s summer, though, I currently use a lighter Révive Moisturizing Renewal Oil, which leaves my skin plump without feeling too heavy or greasy in the heat. Once a week, I will switch the face oil for the Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask and leave it on overnight.

Less is more when it comes to keeping my skin looking clear, so on alternate days I will strip my skincare routine down to three steps with Vintner’s Daughter’s The Ultimate Set: a gentle cleanser, an essence (which replaces my face spray) and a botanical serum (which I use as a face oil). While not cheap, Vintner’s Daughter is the GOAT; over the years, I’ve come back to its cult serum again and again for the way it makes my skin glow unlike anything else on the market. I also use a red light therapy mask from Solawave three times a week to even out my skin texture and calm any hormonal breakouts or irritation.

Esther Newman, affiliate writer

I love a good routine, especially when I’m preparing for bed. I like to shower at night so I can wash away the day and flush any unwanted energy down the drain. I like to make this a self-care ritual, so I’ll light a candle and add some soothing essential oils to the bottom of the shower. You can’t beat Neal’s Yard Remedies’ Women’s Balance, which is an intoxicating blend of patchouli, geranium, rose, and frankincense. It instantly soothes my mind and grounds me.

I’m typically pretty low-key when it comes to beauty and body care. If I’m wearing makeup, I’ll first cleanse with Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water on a reusable cotton pad. Once in the shower, I’ll double up with La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo Cleanser, which is perfect for my dry, sensitive skin. For my body, I also like a gentle and moisturizing body wash, and my latest favorite is the Naturium The Booster Hyaluronic Acid Body Wash. My skin doesn’t feel tight or itchy afterwards, and the hydration really lasts. I don’t even feel like I need to double up with a body cream, so that cuts out an extra step. If I’m washing my hair, I like the MONDAY Haircare Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner; my go-to since reviewing them back in 2021. I love the easy-to-use packaging (a must as a glasses wearer who struggles to see in the shower) and the hydrating, lightweight formula that doesn’t weigh my fine hair down. It leaves it bouncy and glossy.

Once out of the shower, I’ll throw my hair up in a microfiber towel to minimize frizz. In terms of skincare, I try to keep it simple, too. My hero product is the Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray, which has transformed my skin, reducing bacteria and eradicating the stubborn texture along my chin and white spots around my nose. Once this dries down, I’ll follow with a hydrating serum (the Medik8 Liquid Peptides), and then slather on my favorite moisturizer, Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream, and a LANEIGE lip mask.

Finally, it’s time to brush my teeth. After being told by my dentist that my usual electric toothbrush is adding too much pressure to my teeth, I’ve switched to a SURI Toothbrush, which is powerful but a lot more gentle — and quieter than other models.

Tanyel Mustafa, senior writer

No matter what time I go to bed — whether it’s 10 p.m. after an evening at home or 4 a.m. after going to a club — I will always wash my face and body. There’s nothing better than climbing into a clean bed, also feeling clean. I go to the bathroom and brush my teeth, cleanse my face, then shower. I use Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm or Naturium Purple Ginseng Cleansing Balm to remove my makeup. The Emma Hardie one is perfect for my dry skin as it cleanses without stripping moisture or irritating my eyes, but it is definitely a treat due to the price point. The Naturium one is a cheaper option that also works well with my skin. I’m not a double cleanser; I feel if a product can’t do it in one, it’s not a very good cleanser (controversial, I know).

If it’s a Sunday, I’ll apply a mask while in the shower. The two I currently have in rotation are The Outset Purifying Blue Clay Mask if my skin needs a deep cleanse and Tatcha Violet-C Radiance Mask for something a bit more gentle. Weekdays I skip the mask and go straight in with Nécessaire Eucalyptus The Body Wash, which has a relaxing scent and is gentle on skin. I go in with facial skincare immediately after drying off. First, it’ll be a serum of some kind, like The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% if I want gentle exfoliation, or a high-strength vitamin C. Sometimes I skip this step and go straight to moisturizer. My favorite nourishing one is Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream in the winter, and The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA for warmer weather. Both give my skin what it needs without feeling heavy, oily or clogging. I’m not an oil fan. Post-shower, I need to moisturize my body, which I thoroughly hate doing as it’s so boring but it’s good for reducing my seasonal eczema flare-ups. Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion does the job. Then I slather my lips in Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Gloss Balm. Finally, it’s time for bed with a silk pillowcase, which is a recent investment I’ve made as it’s better for skin and hair!

Victoria Montalti, associate fashion writer

My nighttime routine always starts with a shower and while none of the steps is particularly out of the norm, I do like to occasionally throw in a lavender shower steamer tablet to help unwind from stressful days. Afterwards, I spray It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In Lite onto my hair and comb it through with my fingers to serve as a heat protectant before I dry it. But first, while my skin is still moist, I spray Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Tanning Water all over my body! I’ve just started using Jergen’s Natural Glow Face Moisturizer on my face at night and in the morning, too, so I’m not two completely different shades. Next, I move on to drying my bob-length hair, which actually takes longer than you may think since I section it off for a nice blowdry (or else my hair will be super flat and get oilier quicker).

For my skincare routine, I typically keep it very minimal (a face mist and lip mask), but when I’m going all out, I’ll use Futurewise’s Slugging System (a three-step routine consisting of a hydrating face mist, barrier repair moisturizer, and moisture-locking slug balm). I just keep the slugging balm below my bangs so I don’t make them greasy. I finish off my routine with Laneige’s original Lip Sleeping Mask and Bouncy & Firm Sleeping Mask, which I use on my neck for some extra hydration. (And on the occasion that I have a stubborn breakout, I like using e.l.f’s Blemish Breakthrough Stick It to Zits Pimple Patches overnight, which is always super pleasing to remove the next morning.)

All that’s left to do is turn down for bed. I’ve been sleeping on satin pillowcases for years and I simply can’t turn back. They’re so silky smooth and cooling, and I find that I don’t wake up with crazy creases on my face, like you sometimes do with standard cotton pillowcases. To sweeten the deal, I spray ThisWorks Sleep Plus Pillow Spray onto my pillows, which makes them smell like lavender and chamomile and helps relax me even more for a good night’s rest.

This story was originally published on Refinery29 UK.

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As Addison Rae blasts in our headphones, hot dogs sizzle on the grill, sand collects in beach bags, and European vacation plans get finalized, we’re deep in summer mode. And at Refinery29, that means leaning into the good vibes (and hot temps) with fashion that matches the mood.

Right now, we’re all about our go-to denim shorts and easy summer dresses, plus heat-wave-ready accessories like comfortable sandals and and baseball caps — the kind that instantly pull a look together. We’ve also included the travel MVPs making it into our packed bags to build the best vacation outfits. Think: Foldable ballet flats, blister-proof socks, water-resistant anklets, and so-fun matching sets.

Ahead, find 27 editor-approved pieces we’re wearing on repeat — from reader-favorite brands like Lululemon, Madewell, and Vivaia to new discoveries like Chord, Shezza, and Anonymous Copenhagen.

All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.

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I used to be the person who bought a new journal every time I needed to “get my life together.” Think sleek leather covers, crisp white pages, and maybe a cute matching pen. I’d start writing with a burst of motivation, filling a few pages with deep thoughts, a list of goals, or perhaps even a poem. I told myself that this would be the journal I finally stuck with, where I’d finally get consistent about checking in with myself. Inevitably though, life got busy. The journal remained half-finished and forgotten, gathering dust on my desk, until the next booklet caught my eye. At some point, my collection of unfinished journals turned into a running joke — proof that even with the best intentions, sticking to a habit of self-reflection can be harder than it looks.

As relatable as my abandoned journals may be, the reality is that self-reflection can sometimes feel inaccessible and rigid. Therapists have long recommended journaling as a way to process emotions, track personal growth, and untangle mental clutter. When I did manage to sit down and write, it felt like I was releasing a weight I hadn’t even realized I was carrying. Still, I know from my own experiences and from watching those around me that traditional journaling isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

Some people struggle to put their thoughts into words, while others prefer having multiple ways to express themselves. Some days, I wanted to pour out all of my thoughts through my pen, driven by a stroke of poetic inspiration; other days, I simply wished I could vent verbally, capturing all the small details as if I was speaking to a friend.  And then there were moments when words didn’t feel right at all. I’d reach for my colored pencils or watercolors, letting the shades speak instead: calming greens on peaceful days, chaotic reds when I felt overwhelmed, and bright yellows when something made me smile. Through those different forms of expression, I realized that there was no single way to journal.

That’s when the idea of Reflexion was born.

I created an app that makes journaling more accessible and flexible, adapting to people’s unique and everchanging ways of expressing themselves. Reflexion, which will soon be available in the Apple App Store, offers seven different input methods so you can journal in a way that best suits your needs on any given day. If you prefer writing, there’s of course text journaling. On days when speaking feels easier, you can voice record to express what’s on your mind or choose a video diary entry. For visual thinkers, you can draw freely on a built-in canvas using adjustable brush sizes and a variety of color palettes, including warm tones, pastels, neons, and more to match your mood. You can also upload handwritten notes; the app automatically scans the image and recognizes any text, to save it in the database. That way, even if you prefer to journal by hand on some days, you still have all your reflections in one centralized place. You can also upload photos and images that capture a reflection of your mood or moment, like in the early days of Instagram. And when your time or energy is low, there are mood sliders so you can quickly log how you’re feeling with just a few taps.

All of these reflections, no matter the format, are stored in the “Entries” page, creating a centralized place where reflections are kept together. This flexibility means you don’t have to choose one format over another; you can switch from a voice note one day to a drawing the next, and Reflexion will keep everything organized. Each entry is tagged with one of five moods: joyful, calm, energetic, stressed, or sad. These moods are either selected by the user or suggested by the app’s AI-powered mood detection, with the flexibility to override the AI’s choice.

Accessibility is woven throughout Reflexion’s design. The app supports various input methods to accommodate different abilities, offers adjustable font sizes, light and dark modes, and a clean interface that makes it simple and intuitive for users to navigate. There’s also an insights feature that allows you to look back, identify patterns, and track progress.

Looking ahead, I hope Reflexion continues to grow alongside the cultural shift we’re seeing in how we talk about mental health, which has grown to be more open, less stigmatized, and built on small everyday moments of awareness rather than crisis response. Mental health tools need to feel personal, intuitive, and grounded in the way we actually live, especially for younger generations, like me, who spend so much of their lives online.

One-size-fits-all solutions rarely work, especially when it comes to the nuances of our individual mental health needs, and tools like Reflexion reflect the complexity and fluidity of how we experience our emotions, whether that’s through words, voice, visuals, or other moments of quiet self-awareness. That’s the vision behind Reflexion, and it’s one I’m excited to keep building toward. I’m currently working on improving the app’s AI-powered mood detection, creating more personalized prompts, and refining accessibility so that everyone, regardless of background or ability, feels seen and supported.

What began as a solution to my graveyard of half-finished journals became the foundation of what I believe technology should be: not something that demands consistency or perfection, but something that honors the imperfect, nonlinear yet beautiful ways we experience our emotions. Reflexion is just the beginning — and it’s taught me that creating something meaningful starts with keeping at heart the people it’s meant to serve.

Michelle Han is a passionate developer and researcher who puts accessibility and inclusive design at the core of her work. She began her coding journey and discovered the joy of being able to translate ideas into tools that make a difference at Kode With Klossy, where she now serves as an Instructor Assistant. Her app Reflexion was recognized in the 2025 Apple Swift Student Challenge, and she currently conducts research at MIT Media Lab’s Fluid Interfaces group, where she explores affective computing systems within human-computer interaction. This fall, Michelle will begin her undergraduate studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she plans to major in Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science.

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In an ideal world, I’d never wear a strapless bra again. No hate to them, but with summer finally here, I can’t think of a more unappealing undergarment when it comes to tiny-tank-top-and-strappy sundress season — the marks that it leaves on the hot skin, the constricting material, the underboob sweat marks, the constant slipping… As if my phone was listening to my innermost thoughts (I’m not convinced that it isn’t, for the record), my social feeds started to get flooded with ads for Cakes, a brand of nipple covers that has intrigued me since first making rounds on TikTok over a year ago.

After first becoming popular for its Grippy Cakes, adhesive-free nipple covers, the brand has more recently unveiled the heat wave-friendly Sticky Cakes, which have a tacky, adhesive layer to offer more support (and peace of mind). Cakes’ nipple covers come in a few different sizes ( “itty bitty” for AAA-A cups, “OG” for B-DD cups, and “+” for DDD cups and up), skin tones (Honey, Caramel, and Cocoa), and shapes (circles and triangles).

I’ve had mixed success with nipple covers in the past. While the objective is to create a smooth surface underneath tight and/or sheer clothing, some of them made my breast outline even more pronounced as a result of thicker material or uneven edges, defeating the point entirely. Others made an early exit (this happened during my wedding reception, and I didn’t realize until the after-party — oops!) and fell off.

With summer finally here, and strapless bras out until fall, I set out to find out if Cakes, with their $33 price point — which hovers just above many of its competitors — were the real deal. (Although they are on 30% off right now, BTW.) From white tees to bikini tops (yes, bikini tops!) to backless dresses, I put Cakes Grippy Circles, Grippy Triangles, Sticky Circles, and Sticky Triangles, all in the “OG” size and Honey colorway to the test. Ahead, my thoughts.

Grippy Cakes Circles, $33 $23.10

First up, I tried the Grippy Cakes Circles. The silicone was smooth and soft, with the contoured shape thickest in the center and gradually thinned out on the exterior. As with any nipple covers, I applied them to clean, dry skin. I probably could’ve sized down in the circles because they nearly covered my entire breast. This is not necessarily a good or bad thing, especially considering that nipples and breasts vary in size and shape, but something to be aware of if your breasts are on the smaller side of the brand’s range.

The brand recommends wearing this style under tight clothing to help the Cakes stay in place, but I wore mine under a loosely fitting white T-shirt, and they were not only undetectable as advertised but felt secure all day, even in summer heat. After wearing them for a full day, I gently removed them, rinsed them with warm water, and patted them dry. According to the brand, if you follow these instructions, Grippy Cakes are reusable since they use your body’s heat, not adhesive, to naturally cling onto the skin. (Buying fewer, better things? Here for it.)

The circle-shaped “style” was most similar to other nipple covers I’ve tried in the past, but I found that these held up better with sweat and seamlessly blended with my skin (none of those uneven-edge issues I’ve experienced in the past). I would definitely wear these again with a sheer blouse or a plain white tee.

Grippy Cakes Triangles, $33 $23.10

Later that week, I gave the Grippy Triangles, which have an elongated, pointed shape that offers coverage for trickier styles, a try; since they have a sleeker profile, they work for low-cut or V-neck styles that the Circles may have peeked out from. What’s more, Cakes says you can wear these with swimwear (and for working out, but I tend to need more significant support if I’m doing anything more intense than walking). To test this theory, I threw on a triangle bikini and hopped in the pool. I was honestly impressed that the covers stayed in place through swimming and then laying out in the sun; water and sweat didn’t affect the grippiness of the silicone whatsoever.

Would these make it through surfing in Montauk? Probably not. But a little dip and/or playing mermaids is more than fine for these. I probably wouldn’t wear it again under swimwear because I look for styles that already have light padding in them. However, I appreciate having the option for sweat-filled days, and would recommend these for brides who want to dance the night away without worrying about a wardrobe malfunction like mine or, worse, a nip slip.

Sticky Cakes Circles & Triangles, $33 $23.10

Lastly, I tried the new Sticky Cakes, which are nearly identical to their grippy counterparts in look and feel (they come in the same silicone material) but are coated in a thin layer of medical-grade adhesive. I’ll admit, sticky-front bras have been in my wardrobe arsenal for years now, providing light support and lift in backless, strapless designs, but I’m always on the hunt for something better, whether that’s in terms of comfort, performance, or both. (Cakes just released their version, called the Cleavage Bra, which I am eager to try.)

Sticky Cakes are a nice middle ground between going braless and the aforementioned sticky bras. The design has a small divot in the center (called a “nip nook”), so you don’t get adhesive anywhere near the delicate nipple area. When compared to Grippy Cakes, these felt more secure. The adhesive was tacky enough to stay in place (even in 90°F summer heat) but wasn’t so sticky that it hurt to remove it at the end of the day. Per the brand, the sticky versions can be worn at least 10 times with proper care and storage, which involves gently rinsing with warm water, air-drying, and storing in the included pouch. I would save this style for my backless summer dresses on the hottest days of the season or an outdoor summer music festival.

Final Thoughts

So, is Cakes worth the hype? I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t impressed. The grippy styles are great from a sustainability perspective. To me, the triangle shapes are a game-changer thanks to the way you can rotate them 180° in either direction to make even the trickiest neckline work. I also felt like these were the most seamless, invisible alternative to bras I’ve tried so far. Out of all the combinations I tried, the sticky triangles ended up being the winner in my book, since the shape was a universal fit for any tricky wardrobe situation, and I like having the adhesive as an insurance measure.

Bonus: The brand is dedicated to supporting women’s health via Cakes Cares, the brand’s philanthropic arm, which has donated over a million dollars to breast cancer research and support programs. (As the daughter of a breast cancer survivor, I love this.)

Now that I’ve got a full wardrobe of Cakes at my disposal, I feel that my search for the perfect nipple cover has ended. From future wedding dance floors to music festivals and other sweaty, bra-unfriendly scenarios, I may never wear bras again — or at least for the summer.

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To ship or not to ship — that is the quandary of the New Moon in Leo. The lunation brings an unexpected intensity, forcing us to consider our future. With our hearts on the line, we’ll find that the dramatic approach is the only way to make a point and capture attention. Being thirsty won’t help matters. Instead we’ll find out that having the strength to let go of certain connections and start fresh is the best move because it empowers us to take control of our lives. To embrace the New Moon in Leo energy, we must reclaim our love for the MVP in our world: the person looking right back at us in the mirror. Who else would it be?

The day before the New Moon sets the vibe: on July 23rd, Venus in Gemini and Mars in Virgo square off, creating an intense internal energy. Finding the right ways to deal with inner frustrations might be difficult. Since Mars in Virgo can be repressive and Venus in Gemini is more expressive, we might be unsure of the best actions to take in relationships, with both signs’ mercurial nature adding to the uncertainty. It’ll be hard to immediately figure out what we yearn for, but we can think things over and gather information that informs our decisions in time. Trust the process and give yourself a moment.

On July 24th, the day of the lunation, Saturn retrograded in Aries, Neptune retrograded in Aries, Uranus in Gemini, and Pluto retrograde in Aquarius, are in aspect with the New Moon. Saturn retrograde brings emotional intelligence to the mix, allowing us to approach the situation maturely (even if we do not know how to). Neptune retrograde increases our sensitivity to the circumstances we’ll be feeling from Pluto retrograde, which will create power struggles and triangular dynamics in certain relationships. Uranus awakens us, clearing the haze and helping us see the areas of our lives that require change — particularly in the romance department.

This doesn’t spell doom for love matters. We may desire space from a friendship, partnership, or situationship to figure out our sentiments and uncover if we wish to deepen the connection or move on. There will be a push and pull between our heart and mind, and our needs and wants. We will find ourselves caught in the middle: unable to be delusional and ultimately compelled to accept reality. The cosmos is giving us a wake-up call to gather and process integral information to enlighten and improve our options. Along the way, there will be confusion due to Mercury retrograde in Leo, which is currently underway.

We can use this New Moon to our advantage by digging deep to understand our motives and triggers. Finding out the psychological reasons that cause us to react in a particular manner will provide an understanding of our role in dealing with conflict and our feelings. We may even use this as a motivational time to speak up and assert ourselves. No matter what we do, we must evolve and transform. The old ways of handling matters aren’t working and should be adjusted. Growth is challenging but necessary. Who we are becoming is a person of beauty, independence, and the freedom to make their own choices. For better or worse, we are leaning into our core values and beliefs to manifest what we deserve.

All in all, the intention we must set is one of self-love. Whichever path we take, the most important thing to know is that we are worthy of respect, kindness, and empathy. Receiving is just as important as giving and we should ensure that balance. Don’t overextend yourself too much to make someone else happy. The person in need of TLC is you. When you honor and respect yourself, others will too. But it starts with you: look at your fierce self in the mirror and blow a kiss to your image. Write love letters to yourself. Buy yourself a treat or gift. Talk to yourself like you would your best friend. When asked who loves you, bb? You’ll know that you do!

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Cancer Season 2025 Is Here

Your July 2025 Horoscope Is Here