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Susan Devaney, Lifestyle Director
Image Courtesy of Susan DevaneyIs there anyone else out there who just loves a quirky sandal? Okay, come join me. For many years I’ve always worn a pair of Birkenstocks come summer (long before they became the It-girl sandal), but a new breathable, comfy walking sandal has now entered my life: KEEN’s Uneek. To me, they wouldn’t look out of place on the streets of Tokyo, but they’re actually the creation of a brand from Portland, Oregon — not Japan. Next month I’m off to Greece and I think I’ve found the perfect sandal for walking around the country’s hilly, rocky islands.
KEEN KEEN's UNEEK Sandal, $, available at KEEN FootwearImage Courtesy of KEENLondon has had one long, hot summer. Not to moan, but apparently a sixth heatwave will come our way in September (Note: Brits can’t cope with the heat!). So, I felt it was time I equipped myself with a proper fan in case it does arrive. Thanks to Refinery29’s shopping director, Alexis Bennett Parker’s, recommendation in our July lifestyle picks, I’m now in possession of a Dyson Hushjet Mini Cool. It’s lightweight, so I just pop it in my bag, hop on London’s tube (where, believe it or not, there’s no aircon), and then use it the whole journey, keeping cool as I go — bliss!
Dyson Dyson HushJet™ Mini Cool fan, $, available at DysonImage Courtesy of DysonJust a few months ago, Mitsu announced its opening in London's Shoreditch with a roaring party. The kind of party we're in need of (or, so I've heard, as I sadly couldn't make it). Not one to miss out though, I popped in to see what all the fuss was about a few weeks ago instead. From their Wagu sando and soy-glazed salmon skewers to seafood dumplings, the menu was a delight. I also loved sitting in a roomy booth, which is pretty unusual for an overcrowded city like London. Not to mention, their cocktails were fabulous — and their whiskey highball, too!
You can book a table here. Image Courtesy of MITSU Restaurant
Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director
Image Courtesy of Jacqueline KilikitaBy now, you probably know I’m a massive Tudor history nerd, and I’ll lap up anything about the wronged Queen Anne Boleyn. It’s safe to say historian Hayley Nolan is just as obsessed — if not more so — with the tragic figure. This is the second of her books to delve into the myths and lies that centuries have told us about Anne. This time, though, Nolan turns her attention to Elizabeth Barton, a nun whose prophecies helped prevent Henry VIII’s marriage to Anne for seven long years. We often attribute Anne’s infamous downfall to other historical figures, but could Barton have been the catalyst? I’ve preordered it and can’t wait to dive in. If nothing else, I’m sure it’ll make me look learned on my bookshelf.
Barnes & Noble Notorious by Hayley Nolan, $, available at Barnes and NobleImage Courtesy of Barnes & NobleI treat my partner to an AIRE spa experience every birthday — it’s the only thing he asks for — because nothing else quite compares. (That’s coming from a beauty director who has visited her fair share of spas.) AIRE feels like stepping back in time and finding yourself in a Roman bathhouse. Think swimming through exposed brick and decorative amphorae while someone plays the lute and another tends to your every need. Truly magical. This year, we tried the Orange Garden experience, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The treatment combines an invigorating, energizing orange aromatherapy massage with a full-body treatment that includes the face (think cooling gua sha, a sheet mask, and an abundance of softening oils), plus the feet and scalp. No stone is left unturned, and we felt brand-new afterward. Then comes the thermal tour, where you can move between AIRE’s many baths, from the Flotarium — a salt bath that lets you float into peaceful oblivion — to the Caldarium, a 104-degree pool that can only be described as restorative. We’re regulars at the London spa, but there are also two AIRE locations in New York, with another opening soon in Los Angeles.
Aire Ancient Baths AIRE Orange Garden, $, available at Aire Ancient BathsImage Courtesy of AIRE Ancient Baths
Victoria Montalti, Senior Fashion Commerce Writer
Image Courtesy of Victoria MontaltiI’ve been a Heated Rivalry fan since watching the series, but I was late to the game when it came to the books. And as a huge Scott and Kip shipper (that episode was my favorite!), I was gifted the Game Changer book, the first of the series that cover their relationship. As someone who used to religiously read, I fell off once writing became a full-time job, wanting nothing less than to look at more words after work. But truly, this has been the one book that I was excited to pick up every night and fully make it through. It made me so giddy, giggling and gasping like I did when watching on screen. And now I’m eager to continue the series. Image Courtesy of AmazonI had a huge gripe with the OG Béis weekender bag — it was so heavy, chunky, and didn’t fit as much as I’d like. The top frame with the main zipper folded over the sides and removed so much storage space. So when Béis announced that it took in all the feedback from customers over the years and came up with an improved version, I was intrigued. With the new updates, the frame is removed, so I can pack all the way to the top and some bulky hardware is also gone, lightening the bag a bit. And as per usual, I appreciate the bottom compartment for storing shoes or dirty clothes as well as the adjustable "trolley pass-through" that can double as a sleeve that secures around suitcase or an extra-large pocket. While I previously wouldn’t reach for the OG version, this one has become a staple for short trips. Image Courtesy of BéisMy tile-floored basement has been needing a serious refresh, and a new rug seemed to be the solution. The tile can get pretty cold in the winter, so to prepare for the incoming cold weather, I chose a Ruggable style because the brand has always come highly recommended. Ruggable rugs are washable (which is ideal because this basement has been through its fair share of flooding) and the newer tufted all-in-one styles have textured, non-slip bottoms that don’t require a separate pad. This design in particular, co-designed by Katseye’s creative director Humberto Leon, called to me because it has a funky mix of scattered paisley, moon, and floral prints plus cherubs that feel quirky enough for my taste while still looking refined and versatile for a shared space. Image Courtesy of Ruggable
Raquel Reichard, Somos Director
Image Courtesy of Raquel ReichardPast Midnight’s The Frame Burgundy, $225: My eyesight is 20/20, but my eye strain can reach level 100 if I don’t keep up with my routine: lots of water, vegan Omega-3s, preservative-free hydrating eye drops, a heated eye mask, and, of course, blue light glasses. I have a pair in every room where there’s a screen, from my office to my living room, so they’re always within reach. Right now, I’m loving Past Midnight’s The Frame blue light glasses. The burgundy frame feels bold and sophisticated, while the glasses themselves are lightweight, offer 100% UVA and UVB protection, and are scratch-resistant. Even more, the brand, seen on Jennifer Lopez, Jenna Dewan, and Jalen Hurts, is Latina-owned. So I look cute wearing them, feel comfortable in them, and love knowing I’m supporting a Latina-founded brand.Image Courtesy of Past MidnightEvery week, I decline invitations to events in Miami. It’s not that I don’t want to attend. Instead, it’s that getting there isn’t exactly easy or quick. I live in Orlando, which is about a four-hour car ride away from South Florida — and I don’t drive (I know, I know!). Flying cuts the travel time down to about 45 minutes in the air, but there’s another hour and a half to two hours spent getting to and through the airport and a round-trip ticket that can easily run me around $300. I haven’t been invited to an event worth that kind of money or effort, yet. But, as I remembered this summer during the World Cup, Brightline, Florida’s intercity passenger rail service, connects Orlando to South Florida, including stops in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Aventura, and Miami, in about three hours. During the third-place game between England and France, I finally said yes to a Miami invitation and took the yellow high-speed train to get there. It was genuinely a game-changer. SMART tickets start at $39, while PREMIUM starts at $150. While the latter can match the price of a flight, the amenities, especially when you’re traveling for work, make the splurge feel more worthwhile. For instance, PREMIUM got me comfy leather seats, Wi-Fi, power outlets, lounge access, and complimentary meals, snacks, and drinks. So I was able to open my laptop, get work done, and then snack out when I wrapped up. I’ll definitely be doing that again, though maybe not for every invite.
Welcome to Money 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.
This week: a former product manager, who is an aspiring product marketing manager working in tech, and who makes $36,000 per year, spends some of it on career coaching session.
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.We are legally unable to publish any diaries that have been written with the use of AI.
Editor’s Note: This is a 2026 follow-up diary, you can read the previous diary here.
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Occupation: Former product manager (aspiring product marketing manager) Industry: Tech Age: 25 Location: Atlanta, GA Salary: $36,000 Joint Income/Financial Setup: Assets: 401(k): $69,000 HYSA: $12,500 Money Market Fund: $17,497 Roth IRA: $38,942 Debt: $3,042 (this is tentative due to an unemployment mishap) Paycheck Amount (Weekly): $2,892.89 (This fluctuates since I work two jobs, both with varying hours) Pronouns: She/her/hers
Monthly Expenses
Housing Costs: $0 (I currently live with my family) Loan Payments: $0 Spotify: $12 NYT Subscription: $6 Gym Membership: $29.99 Google One: $19.99 GRE prep resource: $9.99 Therapy: $60 Claude Pro: $20 Tithe: ~$200 Car Insurance: $0 (I paid this off in full at the start of the year) Netflix: $0 (I’m on my family’s plan) Debt: $2,994 (credit cards)
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? Yes — growing up in an immigrant household with a family of educated professionals, higher education was a requirement, and post-grad is the expectation. Luckily, my four-year university was covered by a state scholarship and my parents paid for the remainder and housing.
Growing up, what kind of conversations did you have about money? Did your parent(s) educate you about finances? My parents generally talked about living below one’s means and saving aggressively. However, they didn’t really talk about investing. My brother educated me on starting an investment account when I was in college, which I’m very grateful for.
What was your first job and why did you get it? I was an ice cream server at age 16 because I wanted to buy my own clothes and fund weekend outings with friends.
Did you worry about money growing up? No, I grew up in an affluent household and it was a privilege to not worry about money.
Do you worry about money now? Yes and no. Yes — because I’m unemployed for the first time in my adult life for a long stretch of time (it’s been seven months now) due to an unexpected termination. While I saved somewhat aggressively when I was employed, I’m no longer able to save and invest at the same pace, meaning I feel very behind when it comes to my personal financial goals. However, I moved back home once I lost my job, so I no longer have to worry about rent and groceries, for the most part. This was the biggest blessing I could’ve imagined as I was considering signing a lease shortly before the termination occurred.
At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and do you have a financial safety net? I would say age 23 — but I’m 25 and I rely on my parents as a financial safety net now. I’m forever grateful for them.
Do you or have you ever received passive or inherited income? If yes, please explain. Nope.
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Day One: Monday
6:30 a.m. — I have a final interview today — a surprise in-person round that I’d been anticipating pretty much all of last week. I pray in bed before groggily getting up to throw on some workout clothes and dash to the gym.
7:00 a.m. — It’s glute day. I feel like giving up halfway through — oh, man — but I don’t. My body will thank me later (I hope).
9:00 a.m. — I log into my first job (it’s a temporary role that’s mostly remote) and make a cal block for a three-hour ‘appointment’. I answer a few calls and eat breakfast: coffee, overnight oats with my homemade Greek yogurt (a life-changing staple, if you ask me). I make a cup of coffee before putting on some business casual clothes (for the first time in forever!) Then I drive to the interview.
12:00 p.m. — Interview complete and I’m relieved. The conversation with the hiring manager was nice, but I couldn’t fight the feeling that this job feels like a bit of a demotion compared to the scale and scope of work I did at my previous company. I think the hiring manager picked up on this because they curiously asked me if I hated it, I think in some attempt to understand why I ‘left’. So, I guess, the ‘org change’ answer wasn’t enough. Anywho, I try to remind myself that I want to make a career pivot, so this next step may not be as glamorous, but it will be an opportunity for me. I sure hope the price is right, though! The salary is still an enigma, but I won’t worry about negotiations unless there’s even an offer on the table.
1:15 p.m. — I’m back home and back to work. I answer calls I missed and do some paperwork. I then make some smoked salmon on toasted ciabatta with cottage cheese and a bit of kimchi (weird combo, but tasty). I switch between a meeting with a developer for my second job and a coffee chat with a girl who works in the department of the second company I’m interviewing with. Funnily enough, right after the interview, I find out I’ve made it to the third round — eek! However, the call left me with reservations on the scope and power of my work at the other company too (sigh).
4:15 p.m. — I finish out the ‘work’ day with a coaching call (ironically, I coach for my past role and help people get into the company that let me go). It’s a prescreen and the candidate wanted to book for a future session.
6:45 p.m. — I have a bit of time before my scheduled social event of the day: a meet-up with college friends since one is in town for the week. I meal prep banana muffins for the gym and a bulgogi-flavored ground turkey and Korean sweet potato salad. It only takes like 35 mins total to make! I finish meal prep right before GRE class [Graduate Record Examination]. My plan, before my life blew up, was to go back to school next year. Nonetheless, I’m committed to knocking out my testing this year for good. Since I double-booked myself today, I listen to the class like a podcast as I hit the road.
10:00 p.m. — Had a splendid time catching up with friends, and it makes me feel more like myself. Chatting about my life, or the mess that it feels like it is currently, with people who don’t shame or judge me, is so completely freeing. I eat my meal prep and snack on some carrots I’d brought from home.
10:30 p.m. — I’m back home, so I make some hot cocoa (this is part of my daily routine), chew some nuts, and resume interview prep. I have a very important interview coming up this week, so I have to create multiple ‘stories’ and memorize them each night. It’s annoying but I’m determined to make this work pay off.
12:00 a.m. — I snack on popcorn as I prep. Finally, I get an email confirmation for said ‘important interview, ‘ and it’s sooner than I expected — eek! I’m going to have to move around my work schedule to accommodate it (and possibly my sleep).
Daily Total: $0
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Day Two: Tuesday
6:30 a.m. — Today is usually spin day at the gym BUT because I have a big interview tomorrow and I have to go to an event tonight, so I’m devoting all the time that I have to preparation. I skip class, catch a few more Zzzs, get up to pray, and then start cranking out my story examples for the interview. I take a break to apply to more jobs and get started on work emails from my first job. I finally take a break from multi-tasking between story prep, job hunting, and emails to shower.
8:45 a.m. — I have a couple mins before my long team meeting starts, so I make the quickest meal known to man: smoked salmon on toasted ciabatta with mashed avocado and cottage cheese. I sprinkle nutritional yeast flakes and sriracha on top, and toss it in the air fryer for a few minutes.
10:30 a.m. — I finish up a coffee chat and end up getting a referral for a role so I quickly finish that application. I plan on front-loading today’s tasks, so I can spend the rest of my hours job hunting and prepping for tomorrow’s interview. All the while, I try to fight my own intrusive thoughts since it will be seven months of unemployment for me tomorrow. Wowzers.
1:00 p.m. — I’m on an application rampage. I reach out to three friends for referrals and get responses pretty quickly — people are so nice. I intermittently check work emails and request payment from job number two (since that’s overdue). I will restart interview prep tomorrow.
2:00 p.m. — Food break — it’s the same Korean bulgogi-inspired salad with some carrots. I do interview prep with Claude so it can take on an interviewer’s persona and I can get feedback. I actually end up running out of credits and purchase extra tokens *wow*. Like most people, I have a moral dilemma when it comes to AI, especially due to my current situation, but what can I say? It’s cheaper than a career coach (which TBH I might need). $20
5:00 p.m. — I have a session with my therapist, which allows me to vent about my frustrations and confusion with the current state of my life. She’s very helpful in reframing my outlook on life and the pressures I impose on myself out of anger. I’m definitely going to work on being less self-focused and instead, pour my time into meaningfully contributing to others. I made a note to sign up for a volunteer opportunity I’ve been eyeing but de-prioritizing due to job hunting.
6:30 p.m. — I have an event to go to, specifically to support a friend’s performance. I somehow managed to eat my meal-prepped dinner in the car: tofu stir-fry with black rice and beans with a fried egg. The event is fun, insightful, and a good opportunity to step out of my head and hang out with old friends. I leave feeling a bit lighter.
10:45 p.m. — I get home and have a catch-up session with my mom after not seeing her for two days. It turns into a post-therapy vent about how I’m feeling, and she does a great job of encouraging me through some tough love. I make some low-sugar hot cocoa and a cup of yogurt with peanut butter and a sprinkle of nuts. It’s time to resume interview prepping.
12:30 a.m. — Halfway through prep, I realize I’m actually still hungry, so I make cheese on toast and power through another Claude session. I’m tired but also feel hopeful and remind myself that my future will be bright. Positive reinforcement, babes! I hit the hay around 1:45 after a 20-minute scroll on TikTok.
Daily Total: $20
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Day Three: Wednesday
7:00 a.m. — Rise and shine! I slept in a lil’ bit today due to last night’s late-night prep session. I’m meant to do another one this morning, but gym first.
7:30 p.m. — I hit arms and run into an old college friend — we’re both surprised to see each other since we live in the ‘burbs.
9:00 a.m. — Start part-time job number one quite promptly. Part-time job number two sends me incorrect payment info, in addition to some unrealistic project expectations, so I level-set and plan to work on what I can on Thursday.
11:00 a.m. — I run a mock interview with a stranger through this coaching website for jobseekers. It’s my first experience, and I find it incredibly helpful, especially given my AI interview coach agent has been a little too sycophantic these days. It also helps to expose some blind spots before my hour-long interview later this afternoon.
1:00 p.m. — I begrudgingly end up paying for another sesh with a career coach. I did a few last year when I was beginning my job pivot, but clearly, I think I need to readjust my approach with someone on a more consistent basis. For a 15 min consultation, I spend damn near $50! I feel robbed, but yet again, I’m willing to do whatever I have to do to secure a full-time offer (within reason). I eat the same bulgogi meal prep for lunch. $48.52
4:00 p.m. — My hour-long interview leaves me feeling exhausted. I also fear I didn’t use the best, applicable examples. Nonetheless, I’m grateful for the opportunity and optimistic for more to come (where I can hopefully leverage MORE diverse examples).
6:00 p.m. — I take a break from worrying about my job hunt to make homemade yogurt in the Instant Pot. I also snack on some carrots, pretzel sticks, and oatmeal with some peanut butter (random, but we’re an ingredients household). I start reviewing my last GRE class (the one that I passively listened to on my way to a friend outing). I don’t finish the video but tune into the latest class.
8:20 p.m. — Wow, I actually fell asleep during a bit of class today. It was on Zoom and my face wasn’t on camera, but my instructor yelled, “Stay strong!” I’ve signed up for another mock interview sesh at 9 p.m., but I’m so tired, so I nap after class instead and stay in bed for an hour.
9:30 p.m. — The medley of snacks reduced my appetite for a proper dinner, so I eat a bit of leftover black rice with scrambled eggs and bits of smoked salmon. I add some kimchi and avocado for good measure. I’m so sleepy so I stay in bed and watch the latest episode of Euphoria. At this point, I’m watching to critique its current direction. This is the first time I’ve watched TV in a while; it feels nice to relax a bit. I do an abbreviated TikTok scroll before my eyes glaze over around 11.
Daily Total: $48.52
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Day Four: Thursday
5:00 a.m. — It’s spin class time! The music is so good today, and I smile the whole time. The energy of the class is just so high — it definitely helps to improve my mood.
9:00 a.m. — Back online — I have to do some fieldwork for job number one today. I make a smoked salmon sandwich with avocado and cottage cheese spread on ciabatta. I also make some of my instant Colombian coffee; it’s so yummy.
11:00 a.m. — I have an onsite appointment with a client. It goes well and I snack on a mini popcorn bag on my way back home, where I’ll finish up my work.
1:00 p.m. — I’m home. I air fry my bulgogi salad and it tastes like an egg roll in a bowl, definitely bookmarking for next time! I do another mock interview, and it’s super helpful. I also finish up client calls and notes from job number one.
4:00 p.m. — I have a career coaching call and ponder setting up another session, given my desire to secure an offer from one of the companies I’m currently interviewing with. Also, I hear back from the big interview from yesterday, and I’ve moved on to a Power Day interview (think: five-plus hours of interviewing).
5:00 p.m. — I need to catch up on GRE studying but I’m starting to feel super tired. I was supposed to go to a startup event in the city, but given I have a third-round interview tomorrow, I decide it would be best to nap and then schedule another mock interview later tonight.
7:30 p.m. — Dang, I’m still tired and I sincerely don’t know why lol. Anywho, I eat some kimchi stir-fry and egg meal prep with black rice. I then feel super nauseous (I’m unsure why) but I keep a nausea band around so all good.
9:00 p.m. — I do a mock interview with a peer who’s been unemployed for a year. I pray my fate is not the same and that she finds success in her latest interview. I practice a few targeted questions for tomorrow’s interview and get on the phone with a friend to discuss the upcoming Power Day and how I can best prepare. (If you can’t tell, my whole day revolves around interview prep).
11:45 p.m. — I stop prepping and watch a few YouTube videos while enjoying my homemade yogurt with some peanut butter and fruit. I also buy a party ticket for Saturday. I fall asleep pretty quickly after that (following a typical TikTok scroll). $11.99
Daily Total: $11.99
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Day Five: Friday
7:30 a.m. — I struggle to get up — it’s been a struggle the past week and I think it has something to do with my nighttime scrolling. I skip the gym today to prioritize prayer and then interview prep. I eat some coffee overnight oats with peanut butter for brekkie.
10:00 a.m. — I have a coaching call for a separate program that I’m in, and I decide that, given the changes in my employment, I would likely defer my participation in the program. It’s a hard decision to make, and I genuinely feel tears stinging my eyes. (I’m very Type A so it pains me when life doesn’t go according to plan). But I’m practicing surrendering my plans and letting things be, with the knowledge that they will work out in the end as they should.
11:00 a.m. — Time for the interview. While I performed well, I was stumped and discouraged by the question of my employment gap and felt myself spiralling into anxiety about the quality of my response. I text a friend for some reassurance and try to calm myself down. Today, I receive two additional interview requests. Next week will be very busy, and I have to ensure the same mistakes do not repeat themselves.
12:00 p.m. — I’m moving my scheduled test exam to a later date. With interview prep, I’ve had no time to prepare the way I should be preparing. Like most things in America, there’s a fee associated. I also book an hour sesh with my job coach so double whammy on my CC. $212.52
2:30 p.m. — I have a meeting and eat lunch: ciabatta with scrambled eggs, cottage cheese and smoked salmon with avocado. My boss for job number two is going out of the country next week without providing the resources I needed to finish a project. I’m annoyed but going to use his absence to focus on interview prep. I’m seeing a movie with a friend tomorrow so I buy tickets online. $18.38
4:00 p.m. — I’m having a mini breakdown over my interview performance earlier today since I was really interested in the role I was applying for, but I know that my employment gap was the elephant in the room I didn’t directly address. I also haven’t heard back from my final round interview so that only amplifies my anxiety. I take a break from my mental anguish to pay an outstanding fine at my library. I also pick up gum and an e.l.f. brow gel on the way home. $14
7:00 p.m. — I play pickleball with a friend and go out to dinner. I end up covering their meal since they paid for the court reservation, which was way more expensive than I expected. I leave the outing not sure if this turned into a date or not. He starts asking if I’m currently dating, which I’d tried and failed to do, mainly because at times, I feel like I don’t have much to offer without the identity and security that comes with a FTJ (dumb, I know). He doesn’t seem to care, though, and the conversation becomes less serious — TBD where things go, I guess! $25
11:30 p.m. — I help my mom with her hair for an event tomorrow and make a Ninja CREAMi ice cream while I catch up on the latest episode of Euphoria.
Daily Total: $269.90
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Day Six: Saturday
9:00 a.m. — I sleep in and take some time to pray about some important decisions I have to make. My legs are very sore from pickleball, which I later discover during my morning leg day workout. I think I’ve pulled something in my knee. I make an egg salad sandwich with carrots.
1:00 p.m. — I clean my room and then go to the movies with a friend. We see Obsession, and we’re both unsure if the movie was as good as the TikTok reviews said it was, but I did enjoy the underlying messaging. After leaving the theater, my car battery dies unexpectedly. Luckily, I get a jump-start by a kind stranger at my friend’s apartment complex. I snack on some mini popcorn bags on the ride home and stop by an auto shop to make sure my car is okay.
5:00 p.m. — I work on a presentation for an upcoming trip (mission trip) that I’m going on in the summer. I also start interview prep for next week, but I fall asleep. After my nap, I make a bowl of leftover kabob chicken, rice, kimchi, and avocado.
9:00 p.m. — I’m going to the club with friends but stop by a kava shop first to get a drink since I want to try a non-alcoholic alternative. I get a drink to split with a friend. $7.13
12:00 a.m. — We get to the club and our $12 tickets are no longer valid, so now we have to buy $25 tickets to enter the event. Yeah, not happening. I’m able to make a new friend who ‘sponsors’ my ticket and he generously pays for my friends as well. We all dance the night away, and I get home at 5 a.m
Daily Total: $7.13
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Day Seven: Sunday
12:00 p.m. — I have a very late start to the day. Due to a rainy weekend forecast, a friend’s picnic event has been cancelled. In anticipation of better weather to come tomorrow, I decide to focus on interview prep and finishing some items on my to-do list. But first, I watch church service online. It was good, as usual, and so I give my weekly tithe. $50
2:30 p.m. — I make avocado toast with smoked salmon, kimchi, and a small purple potato, sprinkled with nutritional yeast. The perks of living at home and with an immigrant family is I don’t have to buy most of my groceries. I recognize this is a privilege that I’m extremely grateful for (job or no job). That being said, I still go to the store to buy things that my family wouldn’t normally eat or purchase — I buy a tub of cottage cheese, protein cereal, gum, a small container of Greek yogurt, which serves as a starter for my homemade batch, and extra firm tofu for meal prep. We’re an ingredients household so we always have rice and frozen vegetables on hand. $22
7:00 p.m. — I finish my presentation and start interview prep work, which is essentially building several different STAR [Situation, Task, Action, and Result] stories. I take a break to catch up with my long-distance bestie. Our chats always lift my spirits a lil’. I eat my tofu and kimchi stir-fry meal prep for dinner.
11:00 p.m. — I call it quits on interview prep — I still need to create four more detailed stories for an upcoming multi-hour interview. I start doing GRE homework but abruptly realize I need a refresher, as it’s been way too long since I visited the topic. I make my pre-Memorial Day calendar intending to finish my interview prep stories so I can get back into GRE prep, and then start working on job number two items. I finish my remaining homemade yogurt with peanut butter and protein cereal (it tastes like ice cream!)
12:10 a.m. — Bedtime! I needed to make a decision by the end of today, as well as a few financial choices, given there are a couple of trips that my friends want to go on. Since my unemployment journey began, I’ve been the bottleneck to group travel, but I’m trying to not let my current circumstance always dictate my response and be optimistic for the future, instead of anxious over it.
Daily Total: $72
DashDividers_1_500x100
The Breakdown
Conclusion: I think that my discretionary spending was way higher than usual. I typically don’t plan for three ‘fun’ outings per week, but I had a friend visit town. I also wanted to take advantage of the Memorial Day holiday, hence the party tickets. Recording my spending has also made me hyper-aware of the investments (both financial and mental) that I put into the job hunt. Now, I don’t think I necessarily NEED a coach to achieve my goals, but I want to ensure I’m putting 100% of my efforts into this search given the state of the economy and my future ambitions of going to grad school. In the future, I hope that I can make fun purchases without the anxiety and regret that accompany frivolous spending.
Update: Needless to say, my life STILL feels like a work in progress and damn is it EXHAUSTING. I’m actively interviewing for my (theoretical) dream role while working my current full-time job. I’m also exploring what it means to find fulfillment outside of my 9-5 through social impact and creative writing. Although I still complain a lot about feeling stagnant and frankly uncertain about where my life will go, I’m grateful and blessed to be where I’m today. The journey continues.
Final side note: A lesson that I’m still learning is the importance of decoupling my worth from a role. Regardless of their title, the odd jobs that I held throughout my unemployment season played a pivotal role in my personal and professional growth. A career shouldn’t be defined by what you bring into a 9-5; it’s what you pour into your community through your curiosity, intelligence, and wit.
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In a beauty editor’s world, being forced to declare a favorite beauty category is like choosing a favorite child — you simply can’t expect us to pick. But we make no apologies for admitting that fragrance holds a very special place in our lives (and our routines).
A compliment on your perfume can be incredibly affirming, but there’s something even more poignant about fragrance’s ability to transform how you feel when you wear it purely for yourself. For us, fragrance is a constant: at the office, at the gym (controversially), and, yes, even at home when no one else can smell you. With that in mind, we take our fragrance very seriously here at Refinery29. Over the past few years, we’ve made it our mission to sniff out, test, wear, and discuss the latest launches alongside the classics — so we can recommend the ones that are truly worth your time, money, and shelf space.
That’s why we wanted to give the very best of them their moment in the spotlight with our Fragrance Awards 2026. From niche, under-the-radar houses to the biggest names in perfume, these are the 29 scents we’ve spent the past few years smelling, spritzing, and talking about with our friends and colleagues.
“Mark my words: Future Memories is going to become the fragrance Byredo is best known for, even usurping cult classics like Bal D’Afrique and Gypsy Water. At first spritz, it’s a generous pour of vanilla-steeped whiskey, but the intoxicating boozy notes soon unfold into tobacco-like iris butter, cozy orange blossom, and salty, skin-like musk. If a 1920s speakeasy were a fragrance — all cigar smoke, strong cocktails, and perfumed lapels — it would be this, despite the “future” in its name. And the staying power! I sprayed it on a jacket over a month ago, and it’s still as hypnotic as it was on the first day.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
“I would say the enduring popularity of Halfeti needs to be studied, but the reason is obvious: Nothing smells as expensive and seductive on my skin as this does. Even ten years after its launch, I have a hard time comparing it to anything else. Warm, cozy saffron, cardamom, and nutmeg jump out at first, but over time, creamy sandalwood, cocooning amber, and comforting musks come into their own, making it nuzzly and inviting. I love wearing it on my neck and wrists, and whenever I pull someone in for a hug, they never fail to compliment me. In fact, anything from Penhaligon’s is the epitome of luxury to me, but Halfeti trumps them all.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
“Le Monde Gourmand is known for its vast array of affordable eaux de parfums, and this past spring it added Tomate Bébé to its roster. The fragrance, made in collaboration with iconic Los Angeles restaurant Jon & Vinny’s, is everything an aspiring tomato girl wants to smell like. As the name suggests, it’s a vegetable-forward blend of green pepper, tomato leaf, and fresh basil, but with citrusy lemon verbena, skin-like ambrox, and a whisper of dessert-like caramel. The result? A perfume that’s good enough to eat — almost.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29 senior beauty writer
“Ex Nihilo is one of those brands perfume enthusiasts talk about in hushed tones, as if keeping it to themselves will help them gatekeep it — it’s that good. I’ve tried pretty much every scent from the niche perfume house and found favorites in Blue Talisman and Fleur Narcotique (the latter said to be adored by Hailey Bieber), but I think the latest addition to the brand’s burgeoning fragrance dynasty blows them all out of the water. Tart rhubarb, zippy peppermint, and sharp, green blackcurrant give it such an intriguing edge that you can’t help but smell yourself — the notes practically dance off the skin — while vanilla-esque tonka and warm musks ground it, making it the perfect everyday scent.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
“Strawberry scents had a big year (see: The 7 Virtues Strawberry Jam and Phlur’s Strawberry Letter), but I’d argue that no fragrance has captured the fruity note quite like Miu Miu’s Miutine — the house’s first new scent in six years. With notes of juicy strawberry, heady gardenia, warm brown sugar, and cozy vanilla, it’s everything the Miu Miu woman is: playful, feminine, and a little offbeat in the best way. And can we have a moment for the bottle, please? Inspired by Miu Miu’s iconic matelassé leather goods, it’s every bit as chic as the juice inside.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“Billie Eilish: Grammy-winning recording artist, Gen Z style icon, and…the front-runner in the celebrity fragrance game. One of her more recent drops, Your Turn II, is a darker, woodier interpretation of the original fresh-fruity scent. (In a 2025 interview, the singer actually revealed that Your Turn II was an earlier fragrance sample she’d loved but hadn’t ever seen the light of day.) I personally love the blend of more feminine perfumery with accords more commonly used in colognes. Case in point: jammy fig and cassis clashing with zesty vetiver and resinous olibanum. (Not to mention, the lasting power of this rivals some of my most pricey perfumes.) Safe to say, with it emerging as a fan-favorite, she made the right call rescuing it from the vault.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“I rarely ambush my husband with fragrances, but I’ll never forget the first time I sampled Lore’s Somewhere but Nowhere — and immediately knew I had to smell it on him. It cites Americana as its north star, but to me, it smells like home (or your person — more or less the same thing, really.) Its heart of cedarwood mixed with creamy cardamom and black tea (and a barely-noticeable touch of whipped vanilla cream) makes this one that I love as much on him as I do on me. Which means one thing: We’re going to need a larger bottle.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“Merit had no business going this hard with its fragrance debut, but hey, we’re certainly not complaining. The inaugural scent, Retrospect, is exactly what you’d expect from the makeup brand that mastered minimalism: Effortless yet impactful, and with a certain mysterious quality. No one note really stands out; you just smell really good. However, we can reveal the notes in the warm, sheer scent: Bright notes of citrusy bergamot and fresh pear meet a floral bouquet of jasmine, rose, and violet. The secret sauce, in my opinion, is in the base of warm vanilla, skin-like musk, and leafy moss, giving it a familiar finish. And because it’s an extrait (a more concentrated form of fragrance), you can expect this one to last all day long wherever you apply it.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“During a closet clear-out recently, I pulled out a coat I hadn’t worn in over a year, and the scent that greeted me was unmistakable: Diptyque Orphéon. It’s the perfect paradox. Juniper berries give it a strong gin-and-tonic edge — a tall glass tumbler loaded with ice — while cedarwood, jasmine, and tonka bean evoke a church foggy with incense. The dry down is so special: powdery and comforting, like a blush compact from the ’90s. It’s the one perfume all my beauty editor peers agree on, and the staying power is truly second to none.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
“Glossier You Doux has earned me so many compliments; it was a front-runner for my wedding-day scent. (I ended up wearing it at my rehearsal dinner.) It’s easily the most wearable, romantic take on a woody fragrance I’ve tried, and like all of the Glossier You scents, it has a musky ambrox base that truly works on everyone. Along with toasted palo santo, it features delicate violet, spicy frankincense, and smoky myrrh. The result is an effortlessly alluring scent with truly unparalleled mass appeal.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“We’ve all seen Charlize Theron exiting a pool of liquid gold (or more recently, Rihanna sauntering through Versailles), but Dior’s solid perfume iteration, L’Or de J’adore, somehow makes the iconic scent feel more luxe than ever. Housed in a tiny gold compact that’s basically begging to double as a bag charm, this travel-friendly solid makes it easier than ever to bring your scent on vacay — without fearing it being confiscated by airport security. With notes of heady jasmine, sweet rose, and elegant violet wrapped in a warm, nectar-like finish, I think it’s bold, iconic, and unforgettable.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“There’s a fine line between wanting to smell good at work and causing perfume cloud-induced headaches from two cubicles away. Here’s where D.S. & Durga’s I Don’t Know What comes in. It’s subtle but noticeable, with a clean, woody, skin-like quality that somehow smells like you — only better. The formula is built around a mix of bright bergamot, iso e super (a synthetic fragrance molecule with moody, amber-like notes), herbaceous vetiver, and musky ambroxan, creating an airy, balanced scent that lingers all day long on skin and clothes without alerting Brenda from HR. In other words, it’s office-appropriate without being boring, and transitions seamlessly to after-hours.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“Commodity’s Milk Orchid was one of the most anticipated perfume launches of 2025, but the formerly limited-edition fragrance recently became a permanent fixture in the brand’s collection. Content creator Emma B, aka Perfumerism, collaborated with Commodity to create a gourmand floral that feels elevated yet universally appealing. Creamy notes of fig and coconut milk swirl with orchid to create the perfect light-yet-impactful scent for your big day. This is truly special-event and signature-scent worthy!” — Sophia Dennis, head of programming and brand strategy for Refinery29 & Beautycon
“Some fragrances can’t help but take center stage. By contrast, NOYZ Only Human is more about making people lean in closer in a “What perfume are you wearing?”kind of way. Which is exactly why it’s taking home our award for best date-night scent. Warm, woody, and subtly sweet, it blends creamy cardamom, comforting sandalwood, dessert-like vanilla, and sultry musk into a skin-like scent that feels intimate yet totally effortless. It’s the kind of fragrance that smells even better up close. Conveniently, right where you want it for date night.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer.
“If you find traditional floral scents annoyingly loud, you have to try Cyklar’s Flora Veil. It bypasses the heady, garden-in-full-bloom intensity entirely, redefining what a floral profile can be. When I first took a whiff of it, I instantly thought it smelled like me fresh out of the shower, but even better. It earns top honors in the skin scent department because of how masterfully it wears throughout the day. It starts with a delicate (not overly fruity) whisper of crisp raspberry that has just enough brightness to intrigue you without feeling sweet, and it melts seamlessly into a grounding, velvety musk base. Rather than sitting heavily on top of your skin or taking over a room, the oil formula literally warms up with your natural body chemistry, creating your own little bubble of a delightful-smelling aura. What makes Flora Veil so addictive — and why I grab it the most — is the I’m-not-trying-too-hard confidence it gives.” — Alexis Bennett Parker, Refinery29 director of shopping partnerships
“I first smelled this hair perfume on a friend as I leaned in for a hug, and I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I had to buy one for myself, and now I reach for it more than my eau de parfums. Most hair perfumes apply with a whisper and disappear in the breeze, but this clings to strands like an extrait. Lush Bulgarian rose and powdery Turkish rose are heady and mesmerizing, while zingy bergamot cuts through with a hit of freshness. But it’s the vanilla that really sticks around — you’ll find yourself wanting to smell your hair throughout the day. Perhaps an odd habit, but one I can’t kick when I wear this.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
“Body mists are having a major comeback, and when I got a sneak peek (whiff?) of Being Frenshe’s new Matcha Me scent in the Hamptons this summer, I knew I’d found a new favorite. (I’ve been keeping the lab sample in my purse for mid-day touch-ups, and am glad to no longer keep it a secret.) It’s fresh, soft, and uplifting — just like your favorite matcha latte. Alongside the namesake tea note, there’s a hint of soothing vanilla (a favorite of founder Ashley Tisdale French, who also includes it in Vanilla Cashmere) and a soft musk that gives it a cozy, clean quality without veering sugary. Even better, it’s formulated to softly scent everything from your skin and hair to your linens and room for the ultimate relaxing mood.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29 senior beauty writer
“Life’s too short not to make every shower a great-smelling one. LOoPHA (aka The Ordinary’s sister body care brand) has arguably mastered the art of the body wash, elevating the humble shower gel with its liquid and powdered body cleansers, which come in three scents: Oud + Amber, Chalk, and my personal favorite, Broadleaf Forest. There’s not a bad one in the bunch, but I can’t get enough of how crisp and clean (not medicinal) Broadleaf Forest smells. It’s cozy, grounding, and makes every shower feel like a moment of calm.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“Capturing that signature, sun-kissed Jasmine Tookes glow has been pinned to the top of my beauty mood board for years. Actually achieving it? Pure chaos. Traditional body oils often turn into a slippery mess, ruining fine silk and making crisp white linen an absolute no-go. But Brunel’s Pearl Glow is the holy-grail pivot. Pearl Glow smells effortlessly high-end. It opens with a bright burst of crisp red apple and warm solar notes that instantly transport you to a golden-hour beach day. As it settles into skin, it unfolds into a lush heart of jasmine petals and creamy almond, before drying down to a grounding, velvety sandalwood base that gives it a bespoke luxury perfume feel. What makes it an absolute award winner, though, is how seamlessly it balances top-tier perfumery with real-life practicality. You get that enviable, lit-from-within sheen without feeling heavy or sticky. Best of all, its dry-touch finish absorbs quickly with zero transfer onto white clothing, meaning you can finally bathe your collarbones in supermodel radiance and walk out the door completely stain-free.” — Alexis Bennett Parker, Refinery29 director of shopping partnerships
“Some fragrances have their moment before fading away; others feel destined to have one for years to come. Parfums de Marly’s Delina Exclusif falls firmly into the latter camp, earning our Future Classic award for its unapologetically luxurious take on the iconic fruity-floral Delina. A richer, moodier sibling to the original scent, it layers juicy lychee and crisp pear with Turkish rose, spicy incense, warm vanilla, and woody oud for a multifaceted, versatile scent that’s sweet but not saccharine. It’s the kind of perfume that instantly feels iconic — and I, for one, wouldn’t be surprised if, years from now, we’re still talking about it.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“Maison Francis Kurkdjian is known for fragrances that smell expensive and sophisticated (hello, Baccarat Rouge 540), but the luxury perfumer is far from a one-trick pony; Kurky Eau Parfumée is a literal and metaphorical breath of fresh air, thanks to its bright, fruity profile. It opens with juicy raspberry and peach mixed with soft florals, light-as-air musk, and creamy sandalwood. And unlike the vast majority of my perfume collection, this formulation is alcohol-free. (“Eau parfumée” literally translates to “scented water.”) As such, it feels less drying on skin than a traditional alcohol-based fragrance, and I also love using it as a hair mist to add scent and a hint of shine. The result is playful yet elevated, proving that an alcohol-free fragrance can have just as much personality as a traditional eau de parfum.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“To me, most vanilla perfumes are usually way too sweet, aggressively artificial, or smell like a walking dessert table, which is an instant pass. But Phlur Vanilla Canyon completely flips the script, taking the usually cloying note to grown-and-sexy territory. If you’re already obsessed with Vanilla Skin, consider this its darker, cooler, big sister. It has a smoky vanilla DNA that doesn’t read as buttercream. Think smoldering amber and intoxicating depth that feels grounded. What elevates Vanilla Canyon to true award status is how easily it grabs attention without ever feeling overpowering or suffocating. It gives you that warm, sultry vibe that stays close to the skin, kind of like a plush cashmere sweater, making people instantly lean in to ask what you’re wearing. It takes a note we all thought we knew and reinvents it into a masterclass in modern, mysterious perfumery.” — Alexis Bennett Parker, Refinery29 director of shopping partnerships
“Fresh perfumes have somewhat faded into the background, both literally and figuratively, as deeper, heavier gourmands have come to dominate the fragrance conversation — and they’re not exactly known for their staying power, either. But Frédéric Malle Par Acne Studios refuses to be overlooked. It opens with a slightly soapy, aldehydic laundry note, but as it dries down, the magic happens. One whiff and you’re whisked away somewhere that feels as pure and weightless as a fluffy cloud, while still being sharp, crisp, and refreshing.” — Sophia Dennis, head of programming and brand strategy for Refinery29 & Beautycon
“Gourmand fragrances are built around edible, dessert-like notes, and Brown Girl Jane’s Chalet is like stepping into a high-end patisserie in Paris. Think white chocolate truffle offset by slightly bitter dark cocoa, plus ripe, syrupy plum and a dash of vanilla essence for good measure. But I think that the effervescent champagne note cuts through all that richness, making it surprisingly wearable rather than tooth-achingly sweet. It’s one of my most complimented perfumes.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
“I first came across Maya Njie’s Nordic Cedar in 2018, and it has been a linchpin in my perfume rotation ever since. If you like Phlur’s Father Figure, you’ll absolutely adore this. Crisp, green cedar and grassy patchouli are warmed up with a dash of cardamom spice and amber, while musk helps it melt into the skin, becoming an extension of you — like the natural scent of freshly washed skin after a long bubble bath. The bottle may be simple, but the juice inside is anything but. It’s layered and intriguing, equal parts fresh and sexy.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
“Gucci Flora Gorgeous Orchid was the first floral perfume that I, a longtime floral perfume hater, genuinely loved. And if you suspect that florals simply aren’t for you, allow me to introduce you to the exception. Gucci Flora Gorgeous Orchid takes the traditional, occasionally stuffy perfume category and gives it a modern, gourmand-leaning twist, blending pâtisserie-like vanilla with airy ozonic notes (synthetic accords designed to evoke the atmosphere after a rainstorm) and a subtle vanilla orchid accord. It’s proof that a floral fragrance doesn’t have to smell like a flower shop — and that even a floral perfume skeptic can find their match.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29senior beauty writer
“If you like nothing more than a stroll through the farmers’ market on the weekend, Infusion de Rhubarbe will be right up your alley. Think tangy, crunchy stalks of rhubarb — green leaves and all — freshly pulled from the ground, still earthy and warm. Zingy bergamot, verdant green mandarin, and bitter orange oil add to its bucolic quality, balancing the rose note so perfectly that even those who think they dislike floral scents (me!) will fall head over heels for this. I love the fresh, airy cloud that follows me when I spritz it through my hair.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
“Kayali’s entire Oudgasm collection is a total compliment magnet, but if you ask me, the most special and memorable scent of them all is Milky Musk Oud. It’s like a second skin, or pulling on your favorite cashmere sweater after a long soak in the tub. It’s all down to earthy suede, indulgent whipped cream, soapy white musk, and creamy sandalwood, with strawberry and, of course, oud — a fragrant, honeyed tree resin — adding a peppy sweetness. Unlike other oud scents, oud is the supporting actor rather than the star of the show, but it still has plenty of depth without being overpowering. I can guarantee people will ask what you’re wearing.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
“Forget banana, strawberry, or coconut for a hot minute. The fruity note I’m reaching for this fall is purple plum. There’s something rich and brooding about it in all its ripe, syrupy glory, making it feel like a grown-up alternative to the saccharine — and, to be honest, a little juvenile — fruity fragrances out there right now. Plum Tonic is the antidote. It’s still sprightly and energetic thanks to sweet mandarin, while cool, cucumber-like violet leaf, acidulous acai, and warm, enveloping amber crystals give it the rich, complex depth I look for in a fruity fragrance.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29 beauty director
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Olivia Rodrigo may only be 23, but the pop star knows exactly who she is. The young singer has been vocal about supporting women’s rights since she was a teenager, and recently held the inaugural Daisy Chain Fields music festival — inspired by Sarah McLachlan’s Lilith Fair — raising $20 million USD for women’s charities. During a press conference for the festival, where she announced an initial $10 USD million donation, Rodrigo made waves by stepping out in a Palestinian-designed dress by Nöl Collective. At a time when Palestine is suffering under Israeli occupation, wearing a garment made on the ground with symbols of freedom on it was a strong statement.
“It helped say, ‘We are still here; we have not been forgotten’,” designer and founder Yasmeen Mjalli tells Refinery29. “It meant the world to us.” Mjalli isn’t sure how Rodrigo or her team discovered their fashion brand, but says they were honoured to be chosen, and stayed in contact with her team throughout the process. While the singer’s team suggested some general ideas for the silhouette that aligned with her classic style and the colour pink, Nöl Collective were given more free rein than one might imagine. “We had a lot of creative freedom in the details, such as the shade of pink — a soft and dusty rose — the type of material we use[d], raw silk, [and] details like the flutter sleeves, frilled neckline, the embroidery motifs and the embroidery colours,” the designer explains. “It was so much fun to be given the creative freedom to bring something to life that honoured Olivia’s style while also reflecting our own identity.”
The symbols on the dress are also more than just decoration. While the garment is beautiful, Nöl Collective knows the power that Palestinian embroidery can hold; representing a political reality, the natural world, and our dreams. The design house chose specific motifs to tie into Rodrigo’s ethos and what she stands for. “The flowers spoke to the theme of the Daisy Chain Fields festival. Flowers are incredibly important in our world; they decorate the land after rains, [provide] beauty after a storm, [support] ecosystems, [feed] wildlife, and sometimes [contain] medicinal properties,” Mjalli says. “In this particular instance, the daisy chain symbolizes the power of a united world in the face of adversity.” The dusty rose dress also featured embroidered birds, a clear representation of freedom — not just for Palestinians, but for all those who need it around the world.
It helped say, ‘We are still here; we have not been forgotten’.
Yasmeen Mjalli On olivia rodrigo choosing Nöl Collective To Design Her Dress
Nöl Collective’s garments are handmade in Jerusalem, Gaza, Ramallah, and Bethlehem, and the fashion brand places a strong emphasis on showcasing the entire process. Mjalli knows fashion is inherently political, regardless of where a garment is made. “70% of garment workers in the world are women; it’s a women’s rights issue,” she says. “[And] because fashion has unfathomably detrimental effects on the environment, it’s also an environmental issue.” Fast fashion has been widely criticized for human rights violations and environmental impact, but it’s so easy for consumers to compartmentalize or ignore these issues.
“When you show how the garment is made, you humanize the process and close the gap that separates the consumer from the creator. The hope is that people are more mindful when buying because they can see how much time, labor and love go into a garment,” the designer explains. “We hope that for every garment we put out in the world, you can picture the hands of the women who made them — the same hands which brush hair, pick fruit, and hold children and grandchildren.”
It’s impossible to talk about Nöl Collective without acknowledging the impact the Israeli occupation has had on them. For Mjalli, it’s incredibly hard to put into words how difficult the process of creating garments has been. Moving between cities and towns now takes much longer due to military checkpoints, shipping orders is challenging due to border closures, and customs can destroy shipments at their discretion.
It was so much fun to be given the creative freedom to bring something to life that honored Olivia’s style while also reflecting our own identity.
Nöl Collective founder Yasmeen Mjalli
The fashion house uses natural fibres that it is unable to source locally, so it relies on shipments from overseas. Last week, a large shipment of naturally dyed and hand-woven wools from Indian artisans was rejected. “[It was] destroyed last week, simply because of who we are. This was devastating, because our production had already been delayed for months, meaning the collection would be released much later than needed,” the founder says. “We still had to pay the cost of shipping and for the fabric itself because the artisans still need to be paid for their labor, and then we still needed to buy replacement fabric.” The fashion house ended up having to start a GoFundMe to cover the excess costs because fashion and art matter, and it’s a form of resistance to keep going.
Mjalli wants people to understand how vital it is to support Palestinian businesses, especially those on the ground. “We are creating under impossible circumstances,” she says. “Every day, a door slams shut in our face, and we keep searching until we find another door to keep going. So many talented artisans here don’t get a chance, so supporting artisanal work on the ground here can profoundly impact the community.”
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FX’s Adults is one of the buzziest new shows around. It’s a show that embraces the realities of life as a Gen-Zer in this chaotic world, and although it’s a laugh-out-loud comedy, it doesn’t shy away from real-world topics. In Season 1, there was an episode devoted to the cost of healthcare in the US, and the cliffhanger saw Paul Baker (Jack Innanen) struggle to immigrate as a Canadian citizen. Season 2 examines even more real-world issues, including language use, fear of aging as women, and our digital footprint. Lucy Freyer, the Australian star who plays Billie Schaeffer, tells Refinery29 that this could be why Adults resonates with so many viewers. Season 2 spoilers follow.
In Season 1, Issa Damani (Amita Rao) takes in a young teenager, Annabelle, who needs an abortion. Due to reproductive laws, she’s had to travel to New York to receive healthcare. The episode escalates, with Annabelle portrayed as an unlikeable, whiny character — but the point is clear. Everybody should have the right to reproductive healthcare, even if they’re annoying. “All of these ideas are packaged in this way that is sort of fun and easy. But when you think about it, you’re like, oh. [There’s] actually a lot to think about,” Freyer laughs.
In Season 2, Episode 7 “C Alert”, Anton Evans (Owen Thiele) gets in trouble when dropping the word “cunt” (complimentary) in a corporate setting. Many people from the LGBQTIA+ communities have taken back this word and use it in a positive way — see PEDESTRIAN.TV’s “cunty” moment with Pedro Pascal here — but it becomes a whole thing with the older, predominantly white NYC executives.
“When we read it, I was like, ‘Oh, it’s so brilliant!’,” Freyer recalls. “It’s about the evolution of language. David Foster Wallace has this essay that he wrote, which is actually a book review of a dictionary called Authority in American Usage and it’s about language.” She goes on to say that some people allow language to evolve, while others hold on to an idea of the traditional use of language. It’s these types of storylines that make us think deeper and keep us hooked.
One of Billie’s biggest hurdles this season is ageing. It sounds laughable, since her character is only 25, but it’s so easy to feel like you’re fighting an invisible clock. Again, it’s relatable. Freyer says she turned 30 while she was filming that particular episode, and was faced with an actor who played a younger version of her. “She’s so lovely and young, and [I thought], this could spin me out. But you know what? I’m exactly where I need to be, this is great,” Freyer says. “I think now ageing, especially for women, everything is happening later. It doesn’t matter. You don’t have any specific timeline… it used to be this idea of life ends when you turn 30, but [now] it’s like life feels like it’s just beginning, and in a big way.”
I think now ageing, especially for women, everything is happening later… [there] used to be this idea of life ends when you turn 30, but [now] it’s like life feels like it’s just beginning.
Lucy Freyer
Part of the reason Freyer thinks the “ticking clock” conversation isn’t as relevant now is due to health technology advances like egg freezing and IVF — another big storyline in Adults Season 2. “Specifically for women who want to have [biological] children, there is that biological clock that sort of starts to play into the way you think about your existence after you turn 30,” the actor says. “I think now with egg freezing, it’s opened up a world for women to be like, actually, you know what? I’m going to throw those things on ice and live my life the way I want to live it, and not [have it] dictated by that timeline.”
The other big drawcard for Adults is that friendship sits at the heart of every episode. Friends are your chosen family, and seeing what Billie and the gang get up to in each episode can either give you nostalgia for earlier days or something to look forward to. “To be able to live with friends when things sort of don’t matter that much is the greatest joy you can possibly have in life,” Freyer declares. “Especially friendship when proximity is easy.”
The actor notes that when you get older, it becomes harder to have regular, quality time with your friends, even just because of location and schedules. But the sweet spot for Adults is the setting: when you still have housemates and can be so entrenched in each other’s lives. “When you’re living with your friends, and you don’t have things on in your life that matter that much, friendships can be the centre of your life,” she says.
“Issa and Billie’s relationship in this season, the way they explore it and how we end up sharing a room… I think that it’s such a beautiful depiction of friendship in your 20s.”
Adults Season 2is now available to stream on FX.
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