All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
As the season of renewal, spring naturally invites us to refresh our beauty routines — and that includes the perfumes in our regular rotation. In a world that’s increasingly chaotic and unpredictable, the simple joy of a familiar scent can be a welcome respite.
That’s probably why we’ve noticed a spate of new launches that promise to provide comfort and uplift the mood, perhaps even whisking you back to a specific childhood moment.
Ahead, we’ve tapped into the expertise of perfumers, brand founders, and beauty industry insiders to confirm our theories and uncover 9 viral fragrance trends you’re about to see everywhere this spring.
DashDividers_1_500x100
Nutty Gourmands
Gourmand perfumes — essentially edible, dessert-like notes — have been such a viral juggernaut that it’s hard to recall a time before they were everywhere. “Gourmands are a very special breed; they’re appropriate to wear at any time, and their addictive nature keeps you longing for the scent,” says Laura Slatkin, founder of NEST New York. Beyond comforting vanilla and feel-good marshmallows, there’s a new delectable gourmand capturing the hearts of revered perfumers everywhere: nuts.
When used in perfumes, nutty notes like pistachio add a creamy, uplifting quality that evokes a favorite childhood dessert without coming off as overly saccharine or juvenile. This unique element is precisely what prompted perfumer Rodrigo Flores-Roux to create Elizabeth Arden’s Green Tea Pistachio Crunch Eau de Toilette. “The idea came to me one afternoon while I was relaxing with a cup of earl grey and treating myself to some pistachio ice cream,” he says. “The blend of nutty, yummy creaminess brought me to a very nostalgic, feel-good place, reflecting all of the delightful addiction that gourmand notes can bring to a fragrance.”
Beyond pistachio, almonds are also increasingly prominent. Parfums De Marly’s Valaya Exclusif Eau de Parfum adds velvety almond to the top notes, projecting a richness and skin-like intimacy to the more powdery elements of the scent (bergamot and orange blossom). Praline is another nutty gourmand to watch, leaving a warm and inviting scent trail in Kayali’s latest rose and violet-forward perfume, Fleur Majesty Rose Royale 31.
DashDividers_1_500x100
Wild About Strawberry
Biting into a fresh and juicy strawberry is a joy that takes many of us back to childhood days. There’s little wonder why strawberry scents have been cropping up everywhere just in time for spring. Now, though, they’re anything but childish. According to Véronique Nyberg, senior perfumer at Molton Brown, strawberries are also a natural aphrodisiac and add a sensual and luscious quality, making the wearer feel just a little more flirtatious.
The Molton Brown Bluebell & Wild Strawberry Eau de Parfum is an ode to the bright and syrupy fruit. “The wild strawberry accord hits the skin like a mouthwatering, sunlit burst,” Nyberg explains. “Violet leaf reins in the sweetness, adding a delicate, green transparency; as the scent settles, it’s rounded out by the warmth of the driftwood accord in the base.”
According to Nyberg, this chameleon of a note plays beautifully with so many scents, including vanilla and chocolate for a rich, indulgent feel. It can also lend intrigue to a fruity, floral perfume. Take NEST’s Santa Barbara Strawberry Perfume Oil: perfectly ripened strawberries inject pink peony and solar woods with a jolt of energy, creating a wild, almost forest-like depth. Truly’s Soft Serve Perfume Mist teams strawberry top notes with creamy vanilla to create something that feels playful and dessert-like.
DashDividers_1_500x100
Unconventional Florals
“Florals for spring” isn’t exactly groundbreaking. But this season’s floral fragrances are far from mainstream. Take Aesop’s Aurner Eau de Parfum, which utilizes the magnolia leaf, not the flower, for a uniquely herbaceous scent.
D.S. & Durga’s Brown Flowers Eau De Parfum offers another refreshing take, teaming a heady concoction of unusual florals (Queen Anne’s Lace, brown orchids, and coffee flowers) with notes of roots, dried citrus peel, and aged musks. The perfumer envisions the wearer to be an eccentric, chic vintage lover who’s often seen in velvet tuxes and cheetah pantsuits. In other words, it’s a floral that’s anything but boring.
Also try Tom Ford’s Rose Exposed Eau de Parfum, the furthest thing from your grandma’s rose perfume, thanks to a rose water extract that smells more oudy and resinous. Bitter white pepper and smoky leather accords provide an even edgier twist.
DashDividers_1_500x100
Neuroscent Therapy
With the world becoming more complicated, people are turning to “neuroscents”. According to LUSH fragrance lead Lee Howes, they engage your amygdala — the part of our brains that kickstarts emotions — to shift your mood and produce a feeling of happiness and relaxation. This explains why LUSH’s Sleep Body Spray is a perennial bestseller: it contains lavender oil, which is high in linalool content. “Inhaling linalool’s aroma has been shown to influence key receptors in our brains that encourage a more relaxed state,” Howes adds.
Eucalyptus is also an ingredient to watch: “Eucalyptus can help open up our breathing,” says Howes. “It’s a scent that most of us would regard as airy, clear, and breezy.” Featuring frankincense and eucalyptus, Le Labo’s Eucalyptus 20 Eau de Parfum has a fresh and woodsy profile that never fails to help us take deeper breaths.
Jasmine essential oil is another component that can help the body wind down and promote better sleep. Blvgari’s Le Gemme Amunae Eau de Parfum contrasts Indian jasmine with the intoxicating aroma of dark woods and musk mallow. It’s a soft and feminine fragrance that makes slipping into your sheets at the end of the day feel all the more luxurious.
DashDividers_1_500x100
Rhubarb Rising
Sparkling, zingy rhubarb has been getting a lot of love this season — just ask Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street. Together with famed perfumer Jérôme Epinette, Feeney created Electric Rhubarb Eau de Parfum back in 2019, but the scent has enjoyed more attention in the last few months. “Rhubarb brings a youthful energy to perfumes, especially when it comes to creamy floral notes like gardenia, which can sometimes feel old-fashioned,” she says. “It also brightens up sandalwood base notes, which tend to be subtle but grounding.” Epinette calls it “the wink” in a fragrance, which sums it up.
Whether you want to personalize your signature scent or just want to smell expensive, a perfume enhancer is a worthy investment. According to Karl Neale, co-founder of Rebel Aromas, these are “foundation fragrances” that have very simple scent profiles — mainly ambroxan, a lab-made version of popular perfume note ambergris — a rare substance from sperm whales. “You can wear perfume enhancers on their own for that ‘clean skin’ scent, but they’ve been formulated to blend perfumes when layering. They add depth, boost scent projection, and improve longevity,” says Neale.
Ambroxan, in particular, has emerged as a front runner. Known for its versatility, this ingredient has a woody, musky, slightly sweet scent often found in base notes and helps the fragrance ‘stick’ to your skin, says Neale. Try Byredo’s new Blanche Absolu, a revival of its cult-classic ‘skin scent’ that features a stronger aldehyde composition further enhanced by ambroxan at the base.
Imagine sipping your favorite cocktail as the setting sun casts a golden warmth on your skin. Now, imagine bottling this feeling in a perfume. Meet the “sunset scent” — solar notes amped up with sparkling, juicy notes like pear, peach, and kiwi — mimicking a delightful, thirst-quenching libation.
“We’ve been getting so many inquiries from people looking for positive fragrances that [put] them in a good mood,” explains Dimitri Weber, founder of Australian fragrance house Goldfield & Banks. “Juicy notes [like pear and peach] haven’t been that popular until now, but people crave them for that beautiful light and brightness they bring without being overly sugary.” The brand’s Sunset Hour Eau de Parfum perfectly encapsulates this concept, serving up notes of desert peach alongside whiffs of mandarin, ginger, and raspberry.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s latest scent, Kurky Eau de Parfum, touts a mix of tuttifrutti (candied fruits), raspberry, and peach. It’s an airy gourmand that instantly takes you back to more carefree times. With notes of kiwi and cedar, Zara’s Shades of Nostalgia Eau de Parfum is a budget-friendly creation that captures the warm and fuzzy vibes of sunset.
DashDividers_1_500x100
Musks With A Twist
Cosseting and seductive, musks are enduringly popular thanks to their ability to mimic the intimate warmth of skin contact. You’d typically see musks paired with vanilla and white florals, but right now, contrasting musks with fruits — ranging from citrus and berries to pear — is proving most compelling.
“The warmth of musk, contrasted with the freshness of fruit, creates a sophisticated layer to what might otherwise be a sweet, simple fragrance,” says Raquel Bouris, founder and creative director of Who Is Elijah. Electric Soul Eau de Parfum, the brand’s energetic new launch, serves as the perfect example. Notes of pear and raspberry bring a sharp, electrifying brightness, while golden amber adds a deep, intoxicating warmth.
According to Bouris, musk notes can act as an anchor, helping the fruity part of the fragrance last longer. “Bright, citrusy notes tend to fade quickly,” she adds. “Musk can help to slow that fade, creating a smoother, more lingering transition.” Other fragrances that feature this combo include & Other Stories’ Paper Blossom Eau de Toilette, which balances juicy peach with an amber base, and Armani Beauty My Way Ylang Eau de Parfum, an optimistic medley of mango accords, white musk, and ylang.
DashDividers_1_500x100
‘Cocktailing’ With Oils
“While layering has always resonated with perfume lovers, we’re seeing a new wave of personalization with ‘scent cocktailing’ — a highly personalized approach to combining scents to create a unique, long-lasting custom blend,” says MarieAnna Ferdinand, vice president of fragrance development at Le Monde Gourmand. This refers to clashing different concentrations (perfume oils, eaux de parfum, and toilettes) across various parts of your body. Scented body oils and lotions can also be added to the equation.
Fans of Le Monde Gourmand have been cocktailing some of the brand’s bestsellers, calling it the “Pink Drink”: the concoction starts with creamy Lait de Coco Perfume Oil on pulse points, with a veil of fresh and grassy Thé Matcha Eau de Parfum, followed by juicy spritzes of Fruit de Dragon Eau de Toilette over the skin and hair.
Elizabeth Gaynes, founder of luxury fragrance house Strangelove, is glad to see perfume oils finally getting the love they deserve: “Oils are such a sensual and subtle way to wear a scent; it absorbs into the skin and with [body] heat, [the scent] will come out time and time again,” she says. “They sit much closer to our body, making it a great option to pair with eaux de parfum, so you get both projections.”
Strangelove’s deadofnight Perfume Oil — a heady elixir of oud, Damask rose, and sandalwood — makes for a decadent, highly addictive foundation that will linger on the skin for days. Gaynes recommends applying it on the most intimate parts of the body: behind the knees, the crease at the elbow, the nape of the neck, and the small of the back.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Welcome toMoney Diaries where we are tackling the ever-present taboo that is money. We’re asking real people how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we’re tracking every last dollar.
Today: a law clerk and part-time law student who makes $37,700 per year and who spends some of her money this week on a cap and gown for graduation.
If you’d like to submit your own Money Diary, you can do so via our online form. We pay $150 for each published diary. Apologies but we’re not able to reply to every email.
Occupation: Law clerk and part-time law student Industry: Legal Age: 27 Location: New York Salary: $37,700 Assets: Checking account: $1,300; savings $730; Roth IRA: $1,600; HYSA: $700 Debt: ~$68,000 in student loans for law school. Paycheck Amount: Job #1: $450 (every two weeks); job #2: $700 (every two weeks); job #3: $150 (weekly). Pronouns: She/her
Monthly Expenses Housing Costs: $1,145 in rent (I split a three-bedroom apartment with two roommates, E. and M.; this is my share for the big room); $~65 for internet, gas and electricity. Class Pass: $55 Spotify: $11.99 iCloud: $2.99 Google Photos: $2.17 Roth IRA: $25 Savings: $25 HYSA: $25 Therapy: $120
Was there an expectation for you to attend higher education? Did you participate in any form of higher education? If yes, how did you pay for it? Definitely. My dad graduated college and my mom graduated high school, and they emphasized working hard and getting a degree while also teaching us “street smarts”. They were encouraging, but they both grew up in Ireland and so they were not able to be super helpful with the American college application process. I attended a city school on full scholarship for college, and then worked for a few years as a nanny and a tutor to save money for law school. I am currently in law school on partial scholarship, but that doesn’t cover everything, even with federal student loans. I elected to go to law school part time so that I could work ~35 hours a week to cover tuition and living expenses. For my last year, my parents are helping out with tuition ($600 a month) to help me cover the last bit.
Growing up, what kind of conversations did you have about money? Did your parent(s)/guardian(s) educate you about finances? We didn’t have a lot of conversations about money. We knew not to ask for things we didn’t need, and were taught to be appreciative of what we had. My parents taught us the importance of always having some cash saved, buying property if we can, and paying off credit cards in full. My dad’s cousin works in finance and always told us about the importance of investing, but I am only just now starting to put my focus on that — she will definitely be someone I chat with about money in the coming months and years for advice.
What was your first job and why did you get it? I babysat and did some cat sitting as a preteen for people in the neighborhood, but my first W2 job was as a sales associate in a clothing store when I was 15, and I also lifeguarded at a summer camp that year. I got the job for pocket money so I could hang out with my friends.
Did you worry about money growing up? For the most part, no, thankfully. Both my parents worked and my dad was a union member with good benefits. My parents own their home and there was always enough money for a vacation and everything we needed. When I got into my preteens and teens, I worried more about it as I became more aware, as work was not going well for my dad and my parents were paying for college for my older brother. It informed my choice in college as I didn’t want to add stress.
Do you worry about money now? Yes. I am so lucky not to have loans from college, but my law school loans scare me. I turned down a full law school scholarship for a partial scholarship at a school that was higher ranked, and I’m worried that was the wrong choice. The school I went to was supposed to lead to better job prospects, but the post-grad fellowship I secured is not high paying. That said, I am incredibly lucky to have secured something, as a lot of my public interest-minded friends haven’t found positions due to the current political landscape. I also work while going to school, but it still doesn’t feel like enough. My little sister is already making good money and I just feel like I’m behind, especially as I had to borrow money from her last month to go to a friend’s wedding. I also have some dental problems due to being pretty sick during my adolescence, and I worry about costs related to that in the future. Long story short, money is definitely a trigger for my anxiety, and while the last couple years I’ve largely been avoiding thinking about it, I’m trying to get a better handle on things now, hence the low amounts in my HYSA and Roth.
At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and do you have a financial safety net? I first became financially independent at 22 after college when I moved to Spain to teach English. That said, I am not fully financially independent right now and my family is a key safety net. I moved home for four months rent free when the pandemic hit, and then moved home again for three months after a breakup a couple years back. I have managed things the last few years, but this school year, my parents have helped with $600 a month for tuition payments that aren’t covered by my scholarship, loans, and my own savings. They are also currently covering my phone payment on the family plan. I feel incredibly lucky to have my family as a support system.
Do you or have you ever received passive or inherited income? If yes, please explain. When I was in college, my parents covered my groceries and transportation costs and I got a small stipend as part of my scholarship. When I turned 25, a family member (my dad’s cousin — the one that works in finance) gave me $5,000 based on bonds she had gotten for my siblings and me since we were born. I used the money to pay off some of my student loan, put money into savings (which I used to pay tuition), and paid the security deposit on the apartment I was moving into. I also received a scholarship during law school.
Day One: Saturday
8:15 a.m. — I am awake this early on a Saturday morning against my will. This is my last semester of part-time law school, and to get in all my credits, one of my classes is a weekend intensive. This is the second weekend. It’s interesting and focuses on alternative dispute resolution, but wow, I want to be asleep. I hop in the shower and make a quick breakfast: instant oatmeal made with banana and 2% milk, topped with some cashews. There’s not enough protein so I put two scoops of collagen peptides in some water, but they don’t mix and end up super clumpy. Gross. I grab some cold brew coffee from the fridge and add it to my thermos with some 2% milk, then I’m out the door to take the subway to class. Class begins at 10 a.m. with some group simulations. I realize I missed some of the required reading so I’m winging it — off to a good start. $2.90
11:45 a.m. — We have a quick break and I grab a Coke Zero from the vending machine. This class runs until 5 p.m. and I am in need of some caffeine. $3
12:30 p.m. — I head to the cafeteria for lunch with my friend, E. We met during our first week of law school, bonding over taking the same train back to Astoria. For lunch, I packed some meal-prepped rice, sauteed onion and peppers, and ground turkey, topped with guacamole and diced tomatoes. E. and I chat about her fiancé’s upcoming birthday.
1:30pm — We head back to class and admittedly, I zone out a little. I send some emails related to a student org I am a part of, which is focused on voting rights. I read some Onyx Storm fan theories on Reddit (Rebecca Yarros, who turned venin? Pls). I read a Money Diary that discusses egg donation and make a mental note to research further as a way to pay down my loans. Do a few more group simulations.
5:30 p.m. — After class ends, I have a Zoom meeting to prep with my classmate and an actor for our direct examination demonstration next week. I am taking a class where we practice opening arguments, witness questioning, and entering exhibits into evidence. It’s hard but I really like it, and it’s the first time in law school that I feel I can actually be a lawyer. I head down and heat up my early dinner — some Progresso homestyle chicken soup — then scroll on Instagram for a bit before my meeting.
7:15 p.m. Finally leaving campus. My meeting went well, though we struggled with some ways to get in some hearsay. I head to the subway and swipe in ($2.90). On the way home I read The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary. My roommate C. recommended it because it’s her favorite book. It’s cute and light so far. When I get off at my stop, I realize I’m still hungry and pick up two slices of pizza at my local spot. I opt for a chicken and broccoli slice (the best slice, imo) and a chicken, tomato, and red onion slice. I also got some marinara sauce for dipping ($11). I have the chicken broccoli slice with a side of cucumber and hummus for ~balance~. I save the second slice of pizza to bring for lunch with me tomorrow. I relax in the living room watching Sex Lives of College Girls until C. comes in to chat and gives me one of the dino chicken nuggets she just made. I grab a pina colada buzzball out of the freezer to try. Verdict: It’s fine. $13.90
10 p.m. — I brush my teeth, wash my face, and then finally sit down to skim the reading while Modern Family plays in the background. Head to sleep around midnight.
Daily Total: $19.80
Day Two: Sunday
8:15 a.m. — I get up and make breakfast: instant oatmeal made with banana and 2% milk, topped with some cashews. Learning from yesterday, I mix my collagen peptides into the oatmeal (a game changer). At 9 a.m., I head out to catch the train and see I just missed one, so I head to the deli to kill some time. I get a medium coffee with half-and-half with sugar, and some gum for the ensuing coffee breath. I usually don’t take sugar in my coffee, but I am exhausted and it’s gross outside and I. Need. It. ($6). I then swipe in for the subway ($2.90) and wait. Of course, it’s delayed. I watch a YouTube video (a Shrek rap) my friend H. sent me and we chat about her morning sickness (H. is a long-distance friend — she moved to Texas, and we keep in contact pretty regularly). I get to class a few minutes late. $8.90
12:30 p.m. — We break for lunch. I heat up my leftover slice of pizza and have it with some cucumbers and hummus and an apple I brought from home. I read some of my book while I eat. E. joins me after picking up some vegan Thai food, and shares some of her vegan dumplings with me. We go back to class at 1:30 p.m. to work in our groups. The rest of the class goes well and the professor has kind words of encouragement and guidance for us as we finish the intensive.
5 p.m. — I leave school and walk to the subway and swipe in ($2.90) to head home. The train is moving at a glacial pace, but I snag a seat and get to do some reading (still The Flatshare). I get home and get changed to head to a Super Bowl party with C. $2.90
6:15 p.m. — We walk the 20 minutes to our friends S. and A.’s apartment for the Super Bowl gathering. I am not interested in football, but I will go anywhere if my roommate’s buffalo chicken dip is involved. We chat and snack, none of us paying much attention to the actual game, except for C., who has placed a couple of small bets. Over the course of the evening, I have some chips, dip, a bit of salad, a couple small football-shaped cookies, and two pineapple White Claws. C. ends up winning $83, woo! I lose the $20 I spent last week on a box in the Super Bowl pool in my office, but I get to spend the evening playing with S. and A.’s adorable black cat, so who is the real winner here?
11 p.m. — We walk home and I feel utterly exhausted. I brush my teeth, wash my face, and go lay down. I take some extra melatonin and spritz my pillow with lavender, praying that I can get some sleep. I fall asleep around midnight.
Daily Total: $11.80
Day Three: Monday
10:00 a.m. — I first woke up at 5 a.m., but I was not ready to start the day, so I drifted in and out of sleep for another few hours. It’s Monday and I work from home this morning for a labor law office (job #1). I review a memo for one of my supervising attorneys and do some Westlaw research. My mom FaceTimes me briefly to say hi, and we make a plan for me to work from my parents’ house tomorrow so I can see them. At 11 a.m., my stomach rumbles, so I get up to make some breakfast: two slices of toast with honey goat’s cheese, fig butter, and a fried egg. I don’t have any coffee left so I make a mug of lemon ginger tea. While the water boils, I snack on a few cashews and a small piece of gingerbread that my mom’s friend had made. I also put some chicken I had been defrosting into the oven to meal prep.
12:30 — I sign my offer letter from the labor law office for my one year postgraduate fellowship. It’s not great pay, but I like the work because collective bargaining is so important. The job will continue to be remote, which I love. I’ve worked for this office since my second year of law school and it used to be in person, so it is nice knowing everyone already.
1:45 p.m. — I place my order for my cap and gown for my law school graduation ($19.71). Eek! I get unexpectedly emotional. It has been a long few years and I’m proud of myself, but also very nervous about the bar exam. I spend the rest of work doing some admin. My afternoon remote class got cancelled, so I decide to have an early lunch: guacamole, sliced cucumber, baked pita chips, and some of the chicken I cooked earlier. I then head out to the grocery store to pick up fruit, chicken, tuna, Greek yogurt, eggs, cold brew, milk, seltzer, lentil soup, pesto, fresh veggies, and hummus. ($86.10). I take a nap when I get home before a Zoom meeting with my classmate. $105.81
5pm — I get a call from my therapist, B.; I completely spaced about our appointment — I have another prep session for my direct examination with my classmate that I can’t skip. B. is thankfully very chill about it and we reschedule. B. is great, and I have been seeing her weekly since I started law school. I venmo her for the appointment because I failed to cancel ahead of time ($30 — part of my monthly therapy cost).
7:15 p.m. — After my Zoom meeting with my classmate, I grab a vanilla Chobani as a pre-workout snack. I then head to my boxing class. I am not in the mood to workout but I feel like I haven’t gotten enough movement in the last couple days. At 8:30 p.m., the workout is done and I’m happy I did it. The coach, L., is so encouraging and patient with my poor hand-eye coordination. I head home to make dinner: pasta in pesto sauce topped with green peas, feta, and cannellini beans sauteed with garlic, onions, tomato, and lemon juice. I eat and then do my dishes while listening to the first few chapters of the audiobook version of Yellowface by RF Kuang. I add 10 credits to my ClassPass app as I realize I only have four credits left for this cycle. $26.13
10:30 pm — I hop in the shower after taking out the trash and recycling. I listen to my Spotify daylist, which heavily features Hozier, my Irish king. I brush my teeth, take two melatonin and journal for a few minutes. I fall asleep sometime before midnight.
Daily Total: $131.94
Day Four: Tuesday
8:30 a.m. — I get up after tossing and turning all night and get my laundry together before heading to my parents’ house. I do take my laundry to my parents’ house; please don’t come at me. It’s a way to save time and get laundry done while I work, and the laundromat by my apartment is not great. It’s okay, my family makes fun of me for it all the time, but also hated when I used to drop off my laundry to the laundromat, so it’s a compromise. Once at my parents’ house, I put on a load of laundry while talking to my dad about my weekend class. He is retired and always very curious about law school, and it’s nice getting to teach him something. For breakfast, I make a turkey egg and cheese on a croissant with a side of fresh pineapple with ice coffee and milk. I log on to job #1 at 10 a.m. While working, I chat with my sister, who still lives with my parents, and text my friend H. about my RSVP to her wedding in Texas next month.
1:30 p.m. — I make a lunch of non-fat Greek yogurt, banana, strawberries, and blueberries, topped with cinnamon and a handful of Rice Crispies for crunch. I put on some laundry for my family and play with the babies (my mom is a nanny and takes care of two kids, I. and O., at her house). We treat them like bonus siblings. I. is a toddler who is as erudite as she is stubborn, and O. is only a few months old and is quite possibly the smiliest baby ever. I begrudgingly go back to work.
4:45p.m. — I go home to drop off my laundry and then head to the subway to get to school for my night class — trial and arbitration advocacy — which starts at 6 p.m. I read over my direct examination questions and listen to some Chappell Roan to hype myself up. $2.90
8:30 p.m. — I walk out of school and it’s snowing. Class was okay — our professor had A LOT of notes on our direct examination performance, but I did take this class to solicit this exact constructive feedback so I don’t freeze when I’m eventually in front of a jury. I head to the subway and swipe in and read The Flatshare on my way home. $2.90
9:15 — I get home and have leftovers from dinner yesterday, topped with some chicken, while I type up notes from my professor’s feedback. I listen to a few chapters of Yellowface. For dessert, I get some ice cream from my freezer (Baskin Robbins’ flavor for February: Love Potion #31. 10/10, recommend). I put on the latest episode of Abbott Elementary and work on my embroidery project. I’m almost done — it’s a wreath of flowers around a honeybee. At 11 p.m. I brush my teeth and lie down, taking some melatonin. I read another chapter of The Flatshare and fall asleep around 11:30 p.m.
Daily Total: $5.80
Day Five: Wednesday
8:15 a.m. — I get up and take a quick shower, then start getting my breakfast ready. I make oatmeal with banana and 2% milk, and have that with some non-fat Greek yogurt, cinnamon, and cashews. I also prep lunch and dinner — my roommate C. and I are going to see Death Becomes Her on Broadway later (got two-for-one tickets last week that were ~$60 each) and my office is not too far from the theater, so I’ll bring dinner to work and eat there to kill time. I thought about going out for dinner as a little solo date, but I have brunch plans with my best friend R. this weekend, along with upcoming dinner plans with my mom, so I decide to save my money. I swipe into the subway and put on Yellowface to listen to on my commute. Today, I am working in person at job #2 — the insurance law firm. Not exactly my area of interest, but I get a lot of writing experience. $2.90
1:15 p.m. — I stop working to have some lunch. I heat up the shrimp dumplings I brought from home and have them with soy sauce and kimchi that I got from a farmers’ market, along with a side of cucumber and hummus. I sit in the conference room to eat lunch with coworkers. I’m only at this job twice a week so it’s nice to see everyone. The conversation turns to the guys’ fantasy football teams so I tune out. I’m very tired, so I make a cup of black coffee and head back to my desk. I book a Pilates class along with my regular Sunday yoga class through ClassPass for the upcoming weekend before getting back to work. Around 3 p.m. I take a break and text with my friend D. about a weird email from our school featuring bad AI-generated art.
6 p.m. — I work until 6 p.m. and then heat up dinner: lentil soup with chicken and a side of apple slices. While I eat, I FaceTime my sister after my mom said she had had a horrible night shift at the hospital. I get to chat to her and her friend L. as I eat. I leave the office at 6:30 p.m. and walk the 10 minutes to the theatre and head to my seat before C. joins me.
8:30p.m. — At intermission, we agree that this show is amazing! We have been dancing the whole time, and there is another pair of girls in our row who have the same energy. C. goes to buy drinks and gets me a white wine in one of those souvenir cups. I venmo her but she immediately sends it back; I’ll buy her first round when we go out next week.
10 p.m. — When the show is over, we swipe into the subway and discuss our favorite outfits from the show. We also discuss dressing up as the characters for Halloween. We get home at 11 p.m. and I pour a bowl of Special K with 2% milk as a snack. I journal a bit for the full moon (snow moon), brush my teeth, and fall asleep some time before midnight. $2.90
Daily Total: $5.80
Day Six: Thursday
8:15 a.m. — Wake up early around 5 a.m., and then go in and out until 8:15 a.m. when my alarm goes off. I lay in bed until 8:30 a.m. and then hop in the shower. I make a smoothie for breakfast with banana, frozen mango, spinach, and Greek yogurt, and pack some food for dinner during class tonight. I don’t have to worry about lunch today as job #2 is ordering pizza for the whole office. I swipe into the subway and read The Flatshare on my way to work. Once I get in I work on some discovery responses. $2.90
12:30 p.m. — I stop for lunch and grab some pizza and Sprite from the conference room. Then my coworkers and I get to work on making greeting cards — for Valentine’s Day tomorrow, the office is making cards for children through the Valentine’s Project. It’s nice to color and decorate with stickers.
1:30 p.m. — After lunch, I go back to work with a cup of coffee to wake myself up after the influx of carbs. At 3 p.m., I have apple sauce and a handful of cashews, and text with my friend H. about how her first doctor’s appointment went for her pregnancy — I get to see the sonogram photos! I then send over my discovery response outline to the attorney and get started on medical records review, which is, in a word, mind numbing, so I listen to my Spotify daylist: Delicate Crashout Thursday Afternoon.
5:30 p.m. — I clock out of work and grab a tootsie pop for the road. I swipe into the subway and of course, it’s delayed. Get to school a few minutes late and take out my dinner while the professor goes over negligence cases in my bar prep class. For my dinner, I mashed up the sauteed cannellini beans from earlier in the week with some olive oil and lemon juice, and brought sliced chicken breast, cucumber, and baked pita chips with me to dip. During class we go over our last exam, I got a B. Not horrible, but not great. $2.90
9 p.m. — After class, my friend E. walks me to the train and I swipe in and listen to Yellowface on the way home. When I get home I have some ice cream and put on Blink Twice — my friend R. recommended it and I want to watch it before I see them on Saturday for brunch. I watch while doing a bit of embroidery and then go down the Reddit rabbit hole about the movie. Critics didn’t like it but I thought it was really well done. I head to bed around 1 a.m. $2.90
Daily Total: $8.70
Day Seven: Friday
9:15 a.m. — My alarm goes off but I’m not ready to face the world as I’ve been in and out of sleep since 6 a.m. Thankfully, I work from home this morning for job #1. At 10 a.m., I get up and log on to work, then reach out to a few attorneys to see if they have any assignments for me. While I wait, I check the contents of the fridge and make some breakfast: I melt my remaining honey goat’s cheese, add a little olive oil and lemon juice, toss in some leftover pasta, baby spinach, and diced tomatoes, and top with a fried egg. I pour some cold brew with 2% milk and get to work.
11 a.m. — Work is thankfully very light so I watch the latest Bridget Jones movie, which makes me ugly cry. I’m single which doesn’t usually bother me, but it’s Valentine’s Day and I’m PMSing, and so the rom com really rubs it in. I send money to my sister and a few of my single friends so they can buy themselves a little Valentine’s day treat. $30
2 p.m. — I make a quick snack of Greek yogurt, cinnamon, a banana, and cashews, and head to my afternoon job, job #3, taking care of a kindergartner named F. I swipe into the subway ($2.90). On my way I have a quick call with my psychiatrist about my meds and we agree to up the dosage to deal with my increased anxiety given ~the everything~ going on. It’s usually a $15 co-pay but I overpaid last time somehow, so nothing is due this time. $2.90
2:30 p.m. — I pick up the kiddo and get to hear all the kindergarten gossip and see all the Valentine’s cards he got. I’ve been taking care of F. since he was 2 and he’s the coolest little dude. I got my undergrad degree in early childhood education and love children. It’s been a great balance taking care of him while in law school — kids take work, but he brings such a levity to the serious classes I am taking. We head to the library, and then on the way home, we stop at a bakery for a caramel macaron for F., and get myself a small cappuccino as a Friday treat ($6.83). Once home, we color, decorate some heart-shaped cookies, and build Lego. F. is a Sabrina Carpenter fan, so we have a dance party (I turn the volume down when there are curse words, don’t worry). $6.83
6 p.m. — I make the kiddo and myself some breakfast for dinner: egg, Irish sausage, beans, toast, and a side of pear and cucumber for some green on the plate. We watch Shrek (a cinematic masterpiece) until it’s time for me to leave at 8:30 p.m., when F.’s parents come home from dinner. I swipe into the subway ($2.90) and head home. I stop at the grocery store for milk, baby spinach, and mozzarella ($12.73). $15.63
9:15 p.m. — Once I’m home, I do my dishes and clean my room as I listen to more Yellowface. I really like it. Then I have some wine and watch Red, White, and Royal Blue (another rom com to make me cry) and do some embroidery. I brush my teeth and head to sleep around 1 a.m.
Daily Total: $55.36
The Breakdown
Money Diaries are meant to reflect an individual’s experience and do not necessarily reflect Refinery29’s point of view. Refinery29 in no way encourages illegal activity or harmful behavior.
The first step to getting your financial life in order is tracking what you spend — to try on your own, check out our guide to managing your money every day. For more Money Diaries, click here.
Do you have a Money Diary you’d like to share? Submit it with us here.
Have questions about how to submit or our publishing process? Read our Money Diaries FAQ doc here or email us here.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
A solar eclipse is a super-energized lunar event that initiates changes that will transform our lives for years. The first solar eclipse in 2025 occurs on March 29th in the fire sign Aries. This lunation will rock us to our core, urging us to define our futures. For the first time in months, we’ll put our needs first and lean into what we are most passionate about. Since solar eclipses are very intense new moons, we are looking to start exploring ways to enrich and enhance our auras to ensure we are moving forward in the right direction that is in alignment with our destiny.
With Mercury and Venus currently moonwalking in the sky, this eclipse will dredge up ancient issues that we’ve buried deep in our hearts. Rather than running away from the past, we should lean into it. A great way to move through this energy is to say hello to old ghosts and discuss former situations constructively. The goal is to mend the past, so it would be beneficial if we could find cohesive ways to deal with matters. Writing emails or letters to people that have hurt us could mend issues. But we should only do so if we’re ready to face the music. The most important thing is to act when you’re ready. Don’t pressure yourself to move fast.
The same day, Mercury retrograde backs up into Pisces and connects with the elusive planet Neptune. This means that our words may be more confusing than ever. Arguments based on miscommunications could seem never-ending and emotions will be at an extreme high. It’s essential to take a step back before reacting in an effort to be aware of what you’re feeling inside. If need be, you might want to turn your phone off and disconnect from the outside noise to center yourself and find a moment of peace amongst the frenetic vibes.
As with all solar eclipses, we should focus on augmenting and adjusting our lives to evolve with the times. Even though it’s hard to get out of our comfort zones, the moment to transform is here. The best advice is to let go or be dragged, and to move on in order to be reborn.
The best way to gauge how the solar eclipse will affect you is to cast your chart. Insert your birth birth time, date, and location here. Now, look to the house that is ruled by the zodiac sign Aries. That is the area that you are going to be focusing on during the eclipse.
If the eclipse falls in the first house of self, then you are revolutionizing and transforming your appearance or the way you relate to the world.
If the eclipse falls in the second house of material goods and finances, then you are focusing on how you can conserve money.
If the eclipse falls in the busy third house, then you might want to connect with your siblings or discover better ways of communication.
If the eclipse falls in the fourth house of ancestry and home, then family matters will be important at this time.
If the eclipse falls in the romantic fifth house, then children, creativity, and artistry are going to be on the top of your priorities.
If the eclipse falls in the sixth house of co-workers and routine, then you might want to spend time forming better dynamics with your colleagues.
If the eclipse falls in the seventh house of partnerships, then alliances will take center stage, urging you to give your time to building better relationships.
If the eclipse falls in the money oriented eighth house, then you might want to start paying off debts and discuss better ways of saving money as you move forward.
If the eclipse falls in the worldly ninth house, then you might want to start planning your next adventure and trip.
If the eclipse falls in the tenth house of career, then news in your professional life is going to take precedence.
If the eclipse falls in the 11th house of community, then you might want to assess the group dynamics and social circle you’re a part of.
If the eclipse falls in your twelfth house of healing, then it might be time to implement self-care and rest.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Heading off on a trip and don’t know what to wear? Whether you’re venturing to the airport, the train station, or in the car, one thing’s for sure: Comfort is non-negotiable. Sure, trusty leggings and cozy sweats are MVPs, but, sometimes, you want to look a little more “effortless jet-setter” and a little less “just rolled out of bed.” Enter: travel pants.
When curating our list of the best travel pants, we held them to sky-high standards: They needed to be versatile enough to wear straight off the plane and into whatever adventure awaits, comfy enough for the bizarre yoga-esque positions you’ll find yourself in while attempting to sleep on a long-haul flight, and stylish enough to pair seamlessly with the rest of your wardrobe (and avoid the dreaded overpacking guilt). Bonus points to pants with practical perks like wrinkle resistance, technical fabrics, and — the holy grail — pockets.
Meet our 29 favorite travel pants below. Once you experience the magic of sweat-wicking, breezy, and polished bottoms that don’t scream “athleisure overload,” we promise you’ll never look back.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
When your travel day calls for comfort and personality, these drapey wide-leg pants deliver both.
Old Navy High-Waisted Playa Wide-Leg Pants, $, available at Old Navy
Gap Linen-Blend Relaxed Straight Ankle Pants
Lean into the butter yellow trend with these breezy pants — perfect for a travel day en route to your sunny beach escape.
Gap Linen-Blend Relaxed Straight Ankle Pants, $, available at Gap
Ann Taylor Weekend Collection Belted Wide-Leg Ankle Pant
Comfy tailored cotton wide-legs? That’s just good business trip sense.
Ann Taylor Weekend Collection Belted Wide-Leg Ankle Pant, $, available at Ann Taylor
Damson Madder Piper Waffle Jogger
Your basic jogger is shaking. Red waffle fabric and contrast picot trim just raised the bar.
Damson Madder Piper Waffle Jogger, $, available at Damson Madder
Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Bootcut Pant
Quince has done it again — first with its washable silk, now with its ultimate travel pant, combining the sleek silhouette of dress trousers with the comfort of your favorite yoga bottoms. The pull-on style and four-way stretch make it as functional as it is stylish — perfect for running, squatting, mid-flight naps, or anything else your day throws at you. Honestly, we wouldn’t blame you for wearing it to work, too. It also comes in four different inseam lengths.
Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Bootcut Pants, $, available at Quince
Treasure & Bond Pleated Wide Leg Pull-On Pants
Light, airy, and totally utility-coded. These high-waist, wide-leg pants are perfect for snoozing in flight and wearing straight off the plane.
Treasure & Bond Pleated Wide Leg Pull-On Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
SPANX AirEssentials Brushed Straight Leg Pant
Comfort meets polish: These straight-leg pants have a silky-soft feel, four-way stretch, and pintuck details for a more refined travel look — perfect for long-haul flights, road trips, and beyond.
SPANX AirEssentials Brushed Straight Leg Pant, $, available at SPANX
Lululemon Dance Studio Relaxed-Fit Mid-Rise Cargo Pant
Pockets make the difference between good travel pants and great ones — and this mid-rise cargo style from Lululemon ticks all the right boxes, blending all-day function with effortless style.
Lululemon Dance Studio Relaxed-Fit Mid-Rise Cargo Pant, $, available at Lululemon
Pilcro The Izzie Relaxed Pull-On Barrel Pants
Bring the barrel-leg trend to travel days with these twill pull-on pants. A gently tapered fit and rave reviews ensure a comfort-plus feel through every leg of the journey.
Pilcro The Izzie Relaxed Twill Pull-On Barrel Pants, $, available at Anthropologie
Caslon Wide Leg Linen Pants
Pajama-level swish meets go-anywhere polish. These linen-blend wide-legs are as easy as they are elevated.
Caslon Wide Leg Linen Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Rag & Bone Miramar Terry Wide-Leg Pant
Hear us out — jeans, yes, but not really jeans. These super-soft, denim-lookalike wonders come highly recommended by stylish women for comfort-first moments, from marathon travel days to pregnancy. A must-try for their exceptional softness.
rag & bone Miramar Terry Wide-Leg Pant, $, available at rag & bone
The Group Haven Pant
These high-rise pull-on pants keep you cool and comfortable on the move. The sweat-wicking fabric feels sleek, while the relaxed wide-leg fit makes long hours easier.
Laid-back and utility-driven, these cargo pants are built for travel days. An elastic waist keeps things comfortable, while roomy pockets stash essentials within reach.
We The Free Park Ave Pants, $, available at Free People
Mango Wide Leg Knit Pants
Polished but low effort — these refined knit pants bring stretch comfort with a sophisticated drape. The wide-leg silhouette and elastic waist make them a first-class choice for travel days.
Mango Wide Leg Knit Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Vuori Halo Essential Wideleg
Do you dream of Vuori’s DreamKnit? Same. These ultra-soft wide-leg pants deliver that signature feel — with a mid-rise fit, drawcord waist, and front slash pockets — perfect for travel days or laid-back lounging.
Vuori Halo Essential Wideleg, $, available at Vuori
OFFLINE By Aerie Real Me Xtra Trouser
Meet the Aerie Xtra Trouser: buttery-soft with a super-wide waistband that hugs comfortably and a wide leg to balance a fitted top. Pair it with an oversized shirt or classic sweater for a non-try-hard, put-together vibe.
OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me XTRA High Waisted Trouser, $, available at Aerie
Dôen Hilaire Pant
These vintage-inspired palazzo pants offer retro charm with ease. The horn button detail at the high waistband adds to their timeless character.
The iconic swish of ’90s-inspired parachute pants is like an audible time machine, triggering nostalgic vibes we’re fully into for travel days. And with sweet tie bows in the mix? We’re swooning.
Daily Practice by Anthropologie Full Twist Pants, $, available at Anthropologie
Emerson Fry Midnight Tulip Wide Leg Pants
As smart as they are roomy, these pants practically guarantee you’ll at least look the part of a business class upgrade.
Emerson Fry Midnight Tulip Wide Leg Pants, $, available at Tuckernuck
Everlane The Dream Pant
Wrinkle-resistant and business-ready (thanks to the pintuck detailing), these cotton-blend pants rival the comfort of your favorite sweats.
The look of trousers with the ease of a drawstring? That’s the kind of duality we love — perfect for channeling the polished vibe of travel’s golden era on your next work trip or adventure.
Abercrombie & Fitch Menswear Pull-On Pant, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch
J.Crew Factory Kelsey Flare Pant
Unburdened by legit work pants on a plane? Say hello to these cute kick-flares crafted from a so-soft cotton blend — equally smart with a blazer and loafers as they are with a crewneck sweatshirt and sneakers. Available in classic, petite, and tall lengths.
J.Crew Factory Kelsey Flare Pant, $, available at J.Crew Factory
Cou Cou Intimates The Pant
Who knew cute pointelle could be travel-ready? Pair with the coordinating tank and a comfy half-zip for so-cozy airport style.
Not your average track pant — these polished wide-leg trousers bring a sleek upgrade to sporty style. With a relaxed fit and an adjustable waist, they’re equal parts comfort and cool for travel days and beyond.
Reformation Julien Poplin Pant, $, available at Reformation
Alex Mill Riley Pant
Travel days call for pants that feel like pajamas but look pulled together. Made from ultra-soft lyocell, this drapey pair keeps things breezy, comfy, and effortlessly polished.
Alex Mill Riley Pant in Drapey Twill, $, available at Alex Mill
Athleta Brooklyn Mid-Rise Ankle Pant
Side-panel pants with a professional punch? Count us in. They bring ventilation and a subtle textural twist to your look, and they’re available in regular, tall, and petite lengths.
Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pant, $, available at Athleta
Eloquii Side Stripe Track Pants
These track pants blend comfort with polish, making them perfect for travel days. The rich burgundy hue elevates the sporty silhouette, while the wrinkle-resistant ponte fabric and wide-leg fit keep things easy from takeoff to touchdown.
Eloquii Side Stripe Track Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Madewell Satin Pull-On Straight Pants
Hop aboard the satin pant trend in transit — nothing looks more luxe (without the fuss or discomfort).
Madewell Pull-On Straight Satin Pants, $, available at Madewell
Spiritual Gangster Victoria Rib Pants
These ribbed flares nail two trends in one — a textured knit and a subtly flared leg. Soft, stretchy, and kissed with wool, they’re the perfect blend of style and warmth for chilly plane cabins.
Spiritual Gangster Victoria Rib Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Refinery29 (R29) is partnering with the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) to bring a slate of future-forward conversations about fashion, beauty, gaming, and sustainability to SCADstyle 2025, the university’s signature event celebrating global creative leadership, happening March 31 through April 3, 2025. This collaboration marks the latest chapter in Refinery29’s growing relationship with SCAD, debuting a brand-new panel series titled, Next In, curated exclusively for SCADstyle.
The multi-day event brings together some of the top visionaries, innovators, and cultural disruptors across design, fashion, entertainment, tech, and culture, with over 20 of SCAD’s top-ranked degree programs represented including business of beauty and fragrance, interactive design and game development, and more.
Expanding on last year’s successful R29 X SCAD: Next In Beauty event, this collaboration features four engaging conversations led by R29 editors and cultural tastemakers, offering students and cultural enthusiasts insider insight into the future of their industries, including:
Gloss Angeles hosts R29 Beauty Director Sara TanandKirbie Johnson host a live recording of their award-winning beauty podcast. Known for its mix of glam, wellness, and celebrity culture, the show welcomes special guest Violette Serrat, founder of Violette_FR, for a lively conversation on what’s driving the beauty industry today.
R29 Entertainment Director Melissah Yang sits down with Lead UI Designer of the simulator game inZOI Jiyoon Yoon to discuss the process of designing immersive digital words and crafting user experiences followed by a live demo of the game in action.
R29 Fashion Director Irina Grechko and renowned designer Willy Chavarria speak about the power of identity, inclusion, and storytelling through fashion with an intimate look into Chavarria’s creative process.
Sustainability pioneer Eileen Fisher joins Carli Whitwell, Refinery 29’s Senior Director of Editorial, for a candid discussion about building a mission-driven brand, advancing circular fashion practices and driving progress in the fashion industry through transparency and intention.
“SCADstyle is a powerful space where the next generation of creatives can see themselves reflected in the stories we tell and the conversations we lead,” said Carli Whitwell, Senior Director of Editorial at Refinery29. “At Refinery29, we’re always thinking about what’s next and with this partnership for ‘Next In,’ we are so excited to bring that future-forward thinking to such an inspiring and intentional community of emerging talent.”
As the global leader of art, design, and innovation in higher education, SCAD seamlessly aligns with Refinery29’s commitment to championing inclusive, culture-shifting content that reaches and resonates with audiences globally. SCADstyle is a cornerstone of that mission, offering attendees the opportunity to connect directly with people who are redefining style and design across every discipline.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The sun’s out and the days are longer — it’s springtime, and it’s time to protect your eyes from harmful UV light and irritating allergens. But you can do eye care in style. These Latina designers and Latina-owned eyewear brands have sunglasses to protect you and complement any look, whether your vibe is mami chula, cool creative, or pool-ready cutie.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Venezuelan-American designer Carolina Herrera has been behind some of the most iconic looks since founding her namesake brand in 1980. More than 40 years later, her pieces still make a statement, like these Havana Oval Sunglasses with deep-red marbled arms.
Carolina Herrera Carolina Herrera Havana Oval Sunglasses, $, available at Dillard’s
All the mami chulas wear Dezi eyewear. The recently dropped Chula sunnies are inspired by jewelry. These sunglasses, which come in amber, blush, and black, are asymmetrical and include metal piercing details.
Dezi Chula Sunglasses by Dezi, $, available at Dezi
If you’re in your celestial era, you’ll want these zodiac sunglasses by Gleam Eyewear. These shades feature a round-horn-rimmed tortoise frame with the zodiac symbol highlighted in gold, so you can rep your sign and all the fun traits it embodies.
Gleam Eyewear Gleam Eyewear Zodiac Sunglasses, $, available at Gleam Eyewear
If the aesthetic is Y2K reggaetonera, you’ll want these double heart sunglasses by TX Boss Bling Boutique. The shades are available in black, gray, brown, white and purple.
TX Boss Bling Boutique TX Boss’s Double Heart Sunglasses, $, available at TX Boss Bling Boutique
If you’re ready to dip your feet in water, you’ll want Terra Cotta Gorge Co.’s latest: the Beachy Keen. These sunnies feature a thick, rounded sandy translucent frame that make them perfect for every warm-weather activity: a beach getaway, a fun pool party, or a nature adventure at the springs or río.
Terra Cotta Gorge Co. Terra Cotta Gorge Co.’s Beachy Keen Sunglasses, $, available at Terra Cotta Gorge Co.
Everything Coco & Breezy design shout “cool, and yes I know it” — especially these Wisdom sunglasses. These bold sunglasses have a circular frame, brown and gold marble glass acetate, browned out lenses, and just the right amount of gold accents to elevate your ‘fit.
Coco & Breezy Coco & Breezy’s Wisdom Sunglasses, $, available at Coco & Breezy
Metal aviator style sunglasses never go out of style. La Vida Eyewear’s take on these classic shades feature polarized lenses for a better and clearer view against harsh sun glares.
La Vida Eyewear La Vida Eyewear’s El Oficial Sunglasses, $, available at La Vida Eyewear
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
When the words “Amazon” and “sale” appear together, it’s usually in the context of Prime Day, the two-day online shopping extravaganza that’s become an unofficial holiday. However, depending on how much time you spend scrolling new arrivals (no judgement, this is literally our job), you may or may not be aware that the retailer actually hosts sales year-round. They don’t happen especially often, but they’re definitely worth paying attention to.
Amazon has just kicked off its Big Spring Sale, and we wasted no time in investigating. Taking place March 25 through March 31, it spotlights seasonal items across categories like fashion, homeware, garden accessories, travel essentials, beauty, skincare, and more — all up to 40% off. The discount applies to big-name brands like Samsung, Shark, adidas, and Philips, and it’s open to everyone (though, Prime members can access additional, exclusive deals by looking for the “Prime Spring Deal” badge).
Keep clicking to see what R29’s savvy team of shopping editors are adding to their carts during Amazon’s Big Spring Sale.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
“I love cooking, but it takes me ages to do prep work around the kitchen, especially when it comes to chopping. I’m a big fan of Great Jones’ vibrant kitchenware (I’m a proud owner of the Dutchess in Broccoli), and I’m excited to snap up this oversized cutting board in Amazon’s Big Spring Sale starts. (It also makes the perfect housewarming gift, fyi).” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Great Jones All Aboard Oversized Kitchen Cutting Board, $, available at Amazon
“I use Crest Whitestrips whenever I need a little self care or before I go to a party. They make my teeth look like I just went to the dentist. I cart up a box during every major Amazon sale, without fail.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects, $, available at Amazon
“I can never own enough sunglasses, and this retro pair from Le Specs caught my eye while browsing Amazon’s Shopbop sale section. For 25% off, it’s hard to pass them up — I can see them effortlessly complementing all my spring and summer ‘fits.” — Victoria
Le Specs Atlantis Sunglasses, $, available at Amazon
“I already own a 40oz Stanley that I keep at home to crush my daily hydration goals, but I’ve been looking to get a smaller one that’s more on-the-go friendly. This 30oz version is perfect for bringing along on errands and workout classes, and comes in tons of cute spring colors. I’m partial to this dreamy pastel mint hue.” — Karina
Stanley Quencher H2.0 Tumbler, $, available at Amazon
“I knew I was in my thirties when I decided I really wanted a Roomba. I’m pretty tidy at home and have recurring iPhone reminders for everything from changing bedsheets to washing my pup. When it comes to vacuuming my apartment, though? I simply can’t keep up, especially with my aforementioned dog’s shedding. (And mine, for that matter.) I’ve held off on splurging on one of these robot vacuums simply because they can be expensive, but thanks to Amazon’s Big Spring Sale I can make that all important saving.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
iRobot Roomba Vac Robot Vacuum, $, available at Amazon
“Picture this: I’m in my garden on a sunny day, and I’m swaying softly in this hammock, with a stack of books lined up that I just haven’t had time to read yet, a playlist of all my favorite artists playing softly in the distance, and a cold drink of some sort by my side… Ahh, the dream! I just have to make it a reality, right?” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer
Amazon Basics Basics Double Hammock, $, available at Amazon
“Thinking ahead to my dad’s birthday, I have my eye on these Crocs. He spends all his time tending to his precious veg patch, feeding worms to the local robins, and chatting with his neighbors. As it starts to get warmer out, I know he’ll really appreciate a pair of sturdy yet lightweight shoes to throw on as he potters away.” — Esther
Crocs Unisex-Adult Dylan Clogs, $, available at Amazon
“I’m travelling to three weddings this summer, all for friends in the same group — that means I’ll be sharing mirrors with three other girls each time, all while trying to deal with dim hotel lighting. Here to save the day is this handy portable mirror, which I’ll be snapping up during the Big Spring Sale.” — Esther
Infitrans 3 Folds Lighted Vanity Makeup Mirror, $, available at Amazon
“I love all of Laneige’s lip products, and I always have a Lip Glowy Balm in any given bag. I wear it on its own for some juicy hydration, or overtop lipstick for a glowy lipgloss-like finish. While the vanilla one is my current go-to, I’m excited to try this peach scent while it’s on sale and fully embrace the upcoming peach season.” — Victoria
I’m not not eyeing these just because they’re named after Piper (pronounced in The White Lotus’ Victoria Ratliff’s iconic Southern drawl, of course) — but it sure doesn’t hurt! In all seriousness, I’ve been hunting for an elevated-yet-casual shoe for spring, and I think I’ve found the one in these pointed-toe Cole Haan mules. I can already picture them with jeans, dresses, and basically everything in my closet — and at 62% off? Total steal. — Karina
Cole Haan Women’s Piper Mule, $, available at Amazon
An airline recently misplaced my checked luggage, and it took two whole days to get it back. If you’ve ever lived through that nightmare, you know how crucial it is to travel with AirTags. They give you peace of mind — especially when the airline is radio silent about your bag’s whereabouts. With this 30% off deal, now’s the time to stock up before summer vacation season. — Venus
Nordstrom is home to some of the best names in beauty — think Charlotte Tilbury, Nars, La Mer, Nécessaire — all marked down for this extra-special spring sale: (A few brands and products are excluded, including Chanel, Dyson, Shark, Sisley Paris, Victoria Beckham Beauty, and more.) With pages of covetable beauty picks to sift through, we did the legwork and rounded up 10 must-shop finds from Nordstrom’s major beauty blowout.
If we had to choose one product from editor-beloved Nécessaire, it would be this one. This luxurious body wash comes in subtle scents like santal, hinoki, and eucalyptus, setting the stage for your ultimate everything shower.
TikTok made it famous, but Black Honey’s real power is in its universal appeal. The sheer, warm cherry-brown shade is truly a one-swipe wonder — no mirror needed.
A rare discount on La Mer’s iconic cream is no small deal. Infused with the brand’s proprietary Miracle Broth, this decadent formula leaves skin feeling softer, smoother, and naturally radiant.
Turn up the glow with Supergoop!’s highlighter-sunscreen hybrid. With broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection and a luminous finish, it’s a summer essential in shades like rose gold, champagne, and bronze.
It doesn’t get more posh than Dior’s Lip Glow Balm, closely resembling an objet d’art morethan a lip balm. Housed in a vintage-inspired tube, this pH-reactive balm delivers a sheer tint that adjusts to your unique tone — choose from pale pink, icy blue, tangerine, and more.
Olaplex’s bond-building magic now comes in serum form. Lightweight and hydrating, it shields hair from heat up to 450° while leaving strands smooth and nourished.
Cream blush done right. Gucci Westman’s Baby Cheeks blends like a dream and comes in a range of flawless shades — the perfect addition to your spring routine.
There’s a reason Charlotte Tilbury’s lip pencil has cult status — the ultra-creamy, long-wearing formula perfects your pout with precise, pigmented definition.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Refinery 29’s Global Fashion Director Irina Grechko knows a thing or two (or twenty-two!) about what makes a good fashion investment. Watch this space monthly to get answers to all your shopping questions, and insights on the season’s top trends and covetable styles, as Irina shares her shopping picks as if it’s her job… because it is.
After years of working in fashion and traveling everywhere from Japan to London and Iceland for work, I’ve got my packing down to an art — I rarely bring more than I need (if only so I have room in my suitcase for all the destination shopping). I have my favorite luggage brands (Rimowa and Away), my must-have travel jewelry and cosmetics cases (Tumi), and, most importantly, my go-to outfit formulas.
In terms of the latter, what has helped me streamline my packing is to identify the “theme” of the trip. If I am traveling for Fashion Week, I start planning outfits with shoes, which need to be comfortable — as I am constantly on the move and need to be able to jump on a subway or walk briskly when running late — but presentable. If I am going on a more leisurely trip, I will pick a few colors and plan looks around them for maximum outfit combos. Regardless of where I go, every piece of clothing needs to work with at least two other pieces in my suitcase.
Most recently, this technique has served me when I was away for 10 days in Paris during Fashion Week. Ahead, my go-to packing list.
Packing List: Shoes
As with every work trip, I started packing for Paris by deciding on the three pairs of shoes I would bring. All had to pass the on-the-go test, ranging from shoes comfortable enough to sleep in (not really but you get the picture) to evening shoes that I can walk and stand in for at least four hours. I settled on ultra-comfortable sneakers from a past Adidas x Bad Bunny collaboration for the busiest days (my second favorite “fashion sneakers” are from the Adidas x Wales Bonner partnership), heeled loafers from French brand Nomasei for the slightly less busy days, and my forever favorite knee-high stilettos from Larroudé for evenings.
Packing List: Pants
Next step is looking at the bottoms that will work with my shoes. When settling on a color palette for a work trip, I tend to stick to neutrals for maximum versatility and outfit options. For me, this tends to mean dark-wash, tailored jeans; a go-with-everything white denim midi skirt; and a pair of classic navy, black, or olive trousers (I went with navy this season).
Packing List: Tops
I don’t overthink tops when traveling, packing my favorite tried-and-true (if boring) tees, button-downs, and sweaters. In addition to the staples, I bring blazers that can also double as tops (see photo above), as well as turtlenecks for extra texture or a pop of color (Pleats Please Issey Miyake styles work great for this).
In the last two months, no top has gotten more traction in my closet than this Mango blouse. I throw it underneath suits (see photo below), leather jackets, and sweaters for an instant element of drama that elevates what could otherwise be perceived as a basic look.
Packing List: Suit
Speaking of suits, after years of bringing dresses that I would wear only once on trips, I began to pack skirt and pant suits instead. These are so versatile — not only can you wear a matching set together for a look that doesn’t take more than a few minutes to put together (great for mornings when you’re running late), but you can also sport them separately with other items in the suitcase. I love the look of a wool pant tucked into a high-knee boot, or a striped blazer over a more casual mariniere tee or an athletic polo shirt.
Packing List: Outerwear
Some fashion editors consider coats the most important part of the outfit during the cold-weather season. And while that’s true — when editors run from show to show in February, their outerwear is the only thing you see — if I were to bring a coat for every day of PFW, I would have to lug two suitcases and still not have room for anything else.
Instead, for versatility, I tend to stick to a few oversized outerwear silhouettes. That way, I can create layered looks underneath and cheat the image of more looks than I actually have in my suitcase by wearing the jackets open and closed. This waxed Barbour jacket (a signature of the brand for a very good reason) looks equally good with a sweater underneath as over it. Meanwhile, the Mango leather jacket with adjustable zippers that move both ways (photo below) can be worn to highlight the top or the bottom part of the outfit.
Packing List: Accessories
Shoes aside, my accessories are limited to three handbags — two medium-sized crossbodies and an evening-appropriate (and flat) bag that could range from an oversized clutch (see suit photo) to a small shoulder style (photo above) — in solid colors that go with every possible look, as well as a mix of chunky gold and silver earrings that can dress up a simple outfit.
After years of receiving scarves as gifts, and thanks to my Instagram algorithm that’s now filled with styling hacks, I’ve begun to take advantage of my collection and adding them to my must-pack list, not only wearing them around my neck but as ties, belts, headbands, and bag accessories.
Growing out my nails has never been my strong suit. Until recently, I could barely make it a few weeks before breaking one while doing something as untaxing as zipping up my jeans, let alone facing every nail’s nemesis: the ring pull on a can of Coke.
To give them a fighting chance, I’d take skin, hair, and nail supplements like they were going out of fashion, wear gloves while carrying out even the smallest of chores, and refrain from using my nails as tools to open my mail (we all do it). Frustratingly, none of those things worked. What I needed was some expert guidance.
Over the past year, I’ve collected tips and tricks from nail technicians, dermatologists, and even TikTok’s manicure obsessives. But I won’t gatekeep. These are the six simple, and most importantly, affordable, pieces of advice I was given for longer, stronger nails that actually worked.
I chose cuticle oil over nail hardeners
Dr. Dana Stern, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Dana says that the cuticle is the nail’s natural protective seal. When it becomes dry and dehydrated, it’s compromised: “When this happens, water and moisture can enter the nail unit,” she says. “This causes all sorts of problems including redness and swelling,” and eventually, the nail could grow irregularly: “Think white patches, bumps, thickening, and discoloration,” she says.
While most nail technicians will trim or remove dead cuticle skin during a manicure for aesthetic reasons, using cuticle oil still offers multiple benefits for the remaining skin surrounding your nails as I’ve discovered: “Regular application of cuticle oil helps maintain hydration,” says Dr. Zainab Laftah, consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson. “Hydration benefits both the nail and surrounding skin by reducing brittleness, enhancing nail health, supporting healthy nail growth, and preventing infections,” she adds.
Unlike nail hardeners, which can make nails a little too hard, session manicurist Ami Streets says that cuticle oil keeps nails flexible, withstanding everyday wear and tear. “Cuticle oil is the best product for growing nails — and my most recommended item to add to your beauty routine,” she says.
Dr. Dana recommends her Nourishing Cuticle Oil, $18, with jojoba oil and indigo naturalis, a Chinese plant known to repair and strengthen the skin barrier. Complete with a handy roller ball for easy, drip-free application, it’s an oil I can vouch for having used it down to the very last drop. Another of my favorites is Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil, $7.49, with moisturizing vitamin E and a dream team of nourishing plant oils. Streets also loves L’Occitane Shea Nail & Cuticle Oil, $22, which is twice as moisturizing as the impressive hand cream in the same collection, and Jessica Phenomenoil, $20.40, another oil we’ve both used up.
Besides ingredients, exactly how you use your cuticle oil matters, too. Streets says that a single drop on each cuticle is ample — and it’s best applied at night to give the oil time to absorb. Not only does cuticle oil hydrate deeper than hand creams, but Streets and Dr. Dana say that the massaging motion could help stimulate circulation and promote nail growth, too.
I switched from traditional gel to builder gel — or BIAB
Not all gel nail polish is created equal. On my brittle nails, most would chip quickly. I’d then pick off the polish and damage my nails even further. It wasn’t until a fellow beauty journalist recommended Builder in a Bottle — also known as BIAB or builder gel — that my nails grew long and strong. I’m almost a year in and I haven’t had a single chip or break. They’re growing so quickly, that I always ask my nail technician to cut them down.
“Builder in a Bottle is a specific type of gel that lends strength and structure to natural nails,” explains Streets. Thanks to its stronger base, Streets says that it’s a great option for those who want to reinforce their nails while trying to grow them, as they can last up to three weeks. Another great thing about BIAB is that it can be infilled, says Streets. This involves getting the grown-out gap near your cuticles filled in with more gel, rather than having to fully remove the polish each time. “This allows natural nails to maintain growth,” adds Streets, but she recommends a maximum of two to three repeated infills before having a short break to keep your nails healthy and happy.
Thanks to BIAB’s harder, more durable finish, Dr. Dana says that it not only serves as a “protective armor” for nails, but it typically has a forgiving, less damaging removal process by soaking off, so it tends to be more advantageous than other nail enhancements like acrylics. “I’ve seen patients who use BIAB and have very healthy nails in comparison to my patients who wear acrylics and do constant soak-off gels,” she says, adding that BIAB’s durable nature also makes it a good option for nail biters.
I addressed my vitamin D deficiency
When a blood test revealed that my vitamin D levels were low, I began taking a 2000 IU vitamin D supplement daily alongside my trusty omega-3, 6, and 9. While there are multiple health benefits to both, Dr. Laftah points out that they could have additional advantages for nails: “Addressing a vitamin D deficiency can improve nail health as low levels can result in brittle nails,” she tells me. Interestingly, one small study suggests that hapalonychia — a condition that causes nails to become soft and prone to breakage — has been associated with vitamin D deficiency. As for omega-3? “Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your diet may also benefit nails by providing essential nutrients that support overall nail strength and integrity,” Dr. Laftah says.
However, Dr. Dana points out that no robust studies prove that vitamins or supplements benefit nail health. However, since nails are made of keratin (a type of protein) she suggests that if your diet lacks sufficient protein, it may be worth considering protein supplementation to improve the condition of your nails. Streets also advises incorporating more protein into your diet and drives home the importance of staying hydrated.
Before adding supplements to your routine, consult your doctor to ensure they’re safe and suitable for you.
I took hand cream very seriously
Previously, I’d only use lotion when my hands were uncomfortably dry and on the verge of cracking. Over the past few months, though, I’ve taken moisturizing very seriously, and I’m convinced that keeping my hands adequately hydrated throughout the day has also benefited my nails.
I was right. For clients who want longer, stronger nails, Dr. Laftah recommends moisturizing regularly to maintain hydration. “Using a nourishing and hydrating hand cream can help,” adds Streets. “Not only does it keep skin in a supple and soft condition, but it can also act as a protective barrier against environmental stressors,” — like cold weather. Streets says that dry, cracked skin and cuticles can lead to infection or weak nail growth, so consistent daily use of a moisturizing product is essential.
If you want fast hydration without the sticky feel, I love Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Hand Cream, $15. If your hands are especially dry, my all-time favorite hand lotion is L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream, $43. The silky soft feeling sticks around for hours — even post-hand-wash. “On application, make sure you use a massaging motion,” advises Streets. “It can help to boost blood flow to hands and cuticles, which supports new nail growth even further.”
I started using a glass nail file
Dr. Dana believes that many nail files, particularly traditional, rough emery boards, can be too abrasive for natural nails, potentially causing “microscopic tears” that lead to splits and breakage. That’s where glass or crystal nail files come in. On days when I gave my nails a break from BIAB, I’d file away rough edges with a glass file, which I’m certain is kinder on nails.
“In contrast [to emery boards], glass creates a perfectly smooth, split-free edge to the nail,” says Dr. Dana, who uses the Precision Glass File, $15. Likewise, Streets believes that a glass nail file is a worthwhile investment for at-home manicures: “They provide a finer and more controlled filing experience, and the smooth edges help seal the keratin layers at the nails edge, preventing splitting, peeling, and snagging that can occur when using a rougher emery board.” What’s more, Streets points out that glass nail files are non-porous and can be washed or sanitized between uses.
Lastly, I exfoliated my nails
With its ability to exfoliate the skin, leaving it smoother and brighter, glycolic acid is a staple in many skincare routines, but it can benefit your natural nails, too. In between BIAB appointments, I’ve often applied a glycolic acid toner to my nails and cuticles using a cotton swab, then followed with a glug of cuticle oil. The result? Fewer flakes and a stronger, smoother canvas for nail polish. If you’d rather not DIY, try the Dr. Dana Nail Renewal System, $30, a once-weekly, 3-step nail system that boasts glycolic acid, a nail primer, and a hydrating gel-oil to reveal healthy, hydrated, and shiny nails, fast. “It’s perfect for brittle, peeling, weak nails, post-gel damage, or if you simply want a gorgeous, healthy-looking shine without having to go to the salon,” says Dr. Dana.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
