Cosmic beings, we’ve made it to an integration week. After last week’s Scorpio Full Moon brought emotional truths to the surface, this is where we begin to process what was revealed. The intensity of the start of the month settles into something more manageable. With Mercury now in Taurus for its first full week, your thinking slows down in a noticeable way… You can hear yourself more clearly, but you might also notice a tendency to become fixed in your perspective.

Fortunately, Uranus’ presence in Gemini (until 2033) is introducing curiosity, new ideas, and movement, while Mercury in Taurus is asking for sustainability. One wants variety, the other wants consistency. Let them work together this week so you don’t overload yourself or shut down new possibilities too quickly.

On May 6th, Pluto, the Planet of Transformation, begins its five-month retrograde in Aquarius, shifting the focus toward deeper collective reflection. Pluto retrograde is less about external events and more about internal recognition. In Aquarius, this brings attention to how we think, how we participate in communities, and what we consider progress. There’s a strong reminder that building a new world doesn’t always mean constant innovation. It can also mean returning to simplicity, to presence, to shifting from group think to radical thought. This retrograde asks for awareness of where we’ve been following societal patterns without questioning them. During Pluto’s 4.5 month retrograde, all zodiac signs will feel an urge to reconnect with their roots, or alternatively, investigate some of the more unsettling parts of their heritage.

The week closes with the last quarter moon in Aquarius, a natural checkpoint following the Scorpio Full Moon. This phase is about adjustment and release. After being deeply engaged with your emotions, you may feel the need to step back and create mental space. That can look like unplugging, reflecting, or simply allowing yourself not to be as emotionally available to everything at once. There’s value in that distance. It helps you see what actually matters and what you can gently let go. This week’s core theme is to go slow and be in alignment with your values.

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

Aries Sun & Rising:

Aries, quick question: have you actually been enjoying your life, or just trying to stay ahead of it? This week slows you down on purpose. With Mercury spending its first full week in Taurus, your attention shifts to money, stability, and what actually makes you feel secure. Not the flashy wins, but the real ones: eating well, moving your body, having enough, feeling grounded in your day-to-day life. There’s something humbling about realizing wealth isn’t just what’s in your account, it’s how supported you feel in your own routine. And ironically, when you stop trying to do everything at once, your financial decisions get sharper. You spend with more intention, you plan better, you build slower but smarter. Just watch out for stubbornness emerging this week. There’s a difference between being committed to your values and refusing to adapt when something clearly needs to change.

The deeper shift this week is quieter but longer-lasting. Pluto begins its retrograde in Aquarius on May 6th, activating your friendships, social networks, and digital spaces for the next few months. During this transit, you’ll start noticing dynamics you may have brushed off before: power imbalances in friendships, unspoken competition, the way certain online spaces either empower you or subtly drain you. It’s less about cutting people off impulsively and more about seeing clearly who aligns with the version of you you’re becoming. You might also rethink how you show up online, what you share, why you share it, and whether it reflects your truth or just keeps you in the algorithm. This retrograde teaches you discernment. Not everyone deserves access to your orbit, and not every space deserves your energy.

Taurus Sun & Rising:

Taurus, there comes a time in your life where you realize you don’t have to keep bracing for impact. This week is that time. With the sun still in your sign and Mercury spending its first full week there, things feel clearer, steadier, more yours. And more importantly, Uranus is no longer in your sign… not to return until 2102. The constant shake-ups, the identity shifts, the “who even am I right now?” phase… that chapter has closed. Now you get to sit with who you’ve become without immediately being pushed into the next version.

This week isn’t about rushing forward. With Pluto beginning its retrograde in Aquarius on May 6th and activating your career, reputation, and legacy sector for the next four and a half months, your focus shifts toward what you’re actually building long-term. Not the version of success you thought you wanted a year ago, but the one that still feels aligned now. You may start re-evaluating certain goals, questioning paths you’ve been on, or realizing that some ambitions were rooted in pressure rather than purpose. You’re allowed to change your mind about what success looks like. The more honest you are about that, the more intentional your next moves become.

Gemini Sun & Rising:

Gemini, your pace just changed… and your instincts are still catching up to it. With your ruler Mercury now in Taurus for its first full week, you’re feeling that shift more than most. Your mind isn’t racing the way it usually does. There’s a pull inward, toward quiet, toward reflection, toward moments where you’re not constantly stimulated. At the same time, Uranus in your sign is doing the opposite: sparking ideas, inviting spontaneity, pushing you to try new versions of yourself. So the tension is real. One part of you wants to go offline and process, the other wants to say yes to everything and see what happens. This week is about learning how to hold both without overwhelming yourself. You don’t need to rush into every opportunity, but you also don’t need to shut down the excitement. Ground yourself enough to choose what actually feels aligned, and stay open to the plot twists that don’t require you to force them.

The deeper layer of this week unfolds more quietly. With Pluto beginning its retrograde in Aquarius on the 6th, your expansion and long-term vision sector starts to shift in a way that’s less visible but more lasting. Over the next few months, you may find yourself revisiting dreams you thought you had outgrown, or realizing that certain goals still matter to you more than you admitted. There’s also space to release visions that no longer fit who you’re becoming. Give yourself permission to evolve your perspective. With Uranus in your sign, you’re already changing in real time. Pluto just makes sure that what you’re moving toward actually means something to you.

Cancer Sun & Rising:

Cancer, your social life just got more curated. With Mercury now in Taurus, your friendship and community sector slows down in a way that feels intentional. You’re less interested in being everywhere, replying to everyone, or saying yes out of habit. The vibe is more “does this actually feel good?” and that’s so valid. You might find yourself gravitating toward smaller, more meaningful hangouts, better conversations, even friends you can just exist around without performing.

Taurus energy also brings pleasure back into your social life. Good food, good music, good company. No networking or forced vibes, just enjoyment. And yes, you might be a little more selective now. Not everyone gets access to your energy like that anymore, and that’s part of the upgrade. The deeper shift this week is quieter but more powerful. On the 6th, Pluto retrograde in Aquarius activates your sector of intimacy, shared resources, and emotional depth for the next few months. You may notice themes around money owed, debts, financial entanglements, or even emotional exchanges that feel unbalanced starting to surface. It can also bring up older wounds, family patterns, or generational dynamics that you’re ready to understand differently. Stay organized with your finances, have the conversations you’ve been avoiding, and give yourself space to process what comes up instead of pushing it away. This is long-term healing energy. It’s not always comfortable, but it significantly changes how you move going forward.

Leo Sun & Rising:

Leo, you’ve made it to the part of your story where the spotlight feels a little quieter… and somehow, more revealing. With Mercury in Taurus, your career and public image sector is asking you to slow your roll and actually think about what you’re building. This isn’t your usual “move fast, be seen, make it happen” rhythm. It’s more deliberate than that. You’re choosing your words more carefully, making decisions that have weight, and realizing that not every opportunity needs an immediate yes. You might initially feel tension because Taurus energy doesn’t move at your preferred speed, but that’s the point. You’re learning how to create something that lasts. The more patient you are with the process, the more solid the outcome becomes.

Meanwhile, Pluto’s retrograde in Aquarius begins May 6th and activates your relationship sector over the next few months, so you may find yourself rethinking how you show up in partnerships, what power dynamics exist, and whether the connections in your life feel truly reciprocal. You’ll start noticing patterns surrounding the way you give, the way you receive, and where things feel balanced or not. Some relationships may deepen through honesty, while others may naturally shift as you outgrow certain dynamics. The more honest you are about what you need in connection, the easier it becomes to build relationships that actually meet you there.

Virgo Sun & Rising:

Virgo, this week feels like your worldview getting edited in real time. With Mercury now in Taurus, your expansion sector slows things down just enough for you to choose what you’re growing into. This transit is teaching you that not every idea needs a spreadsheet, and not every opportunity needs a 10-step plan. You’re drawn to experiences that feel good in your body: learning something hands-on, planning a trip that actually excites you, studying a subject because you love it, not because it’s “useful.” Say yes to what nourishes your curiosity, not what clutters your calendar. And if you notice yourself getting rigid about the “right way” to do things, loosen the grip. Growth isn’t linear this week.

Meanwhile, starting the 6th, Pluto’s retrograde in Aquarius highlights your routines, health, and work systems for the next few months, and it’s the kind of shift you feel before you fully see. Patterns surface regarding how you manage your time, where you overgive, and what your body has been trying to tell you. No need to overhaul your life overnight, but rather spend time getting honest about what’s not working, and making strategic adjustments. Clean up one habit, set one boundary, or simplify one workflow. The more you refine the small yet crucial missions now, the easier everything else becomes.

Libra Sun & Rising:

Libra, this week pulls you into the spaces you don’t usually narrate out loud. With Mercury now in Taurus, your attention moves toward intimacy, shared resources, and the emotional exchanges that don’t show up on the surface. You might find yourself thinking about money in a more long-term way, or noticing who you feel safe opening up to and who you instinctively hold back from. There’s also something sensual about this transit for you… you’re craving depth, not just connection for the sake of connection. The kind where you can actually relax into someone’s presence and not feel like you have to manage the energy the whole time.

On the 6th, Pluto’s retrograde in Aquarius shifts your creativity and romantic life for the next five months. Over time, you’ll start to notice where you’ve been performing instead of expressing, and where you’ve been seeking validation instead of enjoying yourself. Old creative ideas, past lovers, or even younger versions of yourself can come back into your awareness in a way that feels unfinished. There’s something here about reclaiming your joy in a way that may feel a little messy, unfamiliar, or slightly outside your usual comfort zone. The shift isn’t loud, but it changes your energy in a way people can feel.

Scorpio Sun & Rising:

Scorpio, you can feel the difference in your body before you even put words to it. For years, Uranus in Taurus kept your relationship sector in a constant state of change: sudden shifts, unexpected endings or beginnings, and learning the hard way what you will and won’t tolerate. That energy destabilized your life so you could clearly see what had to go. Now, with Mercury spending its first full week in Taurus, the tone is completely different. The chaos has quieted, and in its place comes clarity. Your thoughts are more grounded, your voice more steady,
and your boundaries more defined. You’re not scrambling to adapt in the same way. You’re simply… deciding.

That Scorpio who used to say yes just to keep the peace might catch themselves pausing, choosing their words, and naming a non-negotiable without the same fear of loss. There’s a calm confidence in knowing what works for you now. The only thing to watch is swinging too far in the other direction and becoming so fixed in your opinions or values that you shut down connection before it has a chance to meet you halfway. Uranus in Gemini is reminding you that flexibility is still part of the equation, just not at the cost of your self-respect.

At the same time, something deeper is shifting underneath it all. Pluto, your ruler, is now retrograde in Aquarius, activating your home and foundation zone. This shows up as a quiet pressure… a sense that something in your personal life needs to be restructured. Over the next five months, you may notice old family dynamics resurfacing, responsibilities that feel heavier than usual, or a realization that the way you’ve been showing up at home no longer feels sustainable. Pluto is here to help you understand your own patterns more deeply and choose how you want to engage moving forward. This transit reshapes your sense of stability from the inside out.

Sagittarius Sun & Rising:

Sag, your week starts asking for a different kind of discipline… the kind that actually supports you. With Mercury in Taurus, your focus lands on your routines, your health, and how you move through your days. You’re used to jumping ahead, multitasking, chasing what excites you, and now your mind wants to slow down, repeat, refine. At first, that can feel restrictive, like everything is taking longer than it should. But there’s something quietly satisfying about noticing what works when you stick with it. Eating better, moving your body, organizing your time so you’re not running on vibes alone… it adds up, and suddenly routine starts to feel less like a cage and more like something that actually has your back.

Meanwhile, starting the 6th Pluto retrograde in Aquarius moves your attention to your voice, your ideas, and how you communicate them over the next few months. The vibe is very “log off and touch something real.” There’s a nostalgic pull here towards swapping your iPhone for a Discman, printing out photos instead of leaving them in your camera roll, or recording voice notes just to hear your own thoughts back. You might find yourself revisiting old projects, unfinished writing, or hobbies you dropped when life got busy. And weirdly, they hit differently now. Less pressure to perform, more interest in creating for yourself. Conversations feel better in person than through a screen. You’re choosing your words more carefully, posting less, observing more. It’s giving main character in a coming-of-age film where nobody knows what you’re working on yet… but you do, and that’s all that matters.

Capricorn Sun & Rising:

Capricorn, this week feels like your creative voice coming back online in a way that actually makes sense to you. With Mercury in your fellow earth sign Taurus, the mental friction you felt during Mercury in Aries starts to ease. You’re thinking more clearly, speaking more intentionally, and creating from a place that feels grounded instead of rushed. This lands in your sector of romance and inner child healing, so you might find yourself reconnecting with what you genuinely enjoy and what feels good to express. And after Uranus spent years shaking things up in this part of your life, the difference is noticeable. You can actually see how much you’ve grown in how you love, how you create, and how you step into visibility.

At the same time, Pluto’s retrograde in Aquarius activates your money and self-worth sector, and the tone here is more reflective than reactive. Over the next few months, you may start questioning the structures you’ve built around income and stability, because they might be more rigid than they need to be. There’s space to think differently about how you earn money. Working smarter starts to feel more appealing than working harder, but in a way that still respects your need for security. You don’t have to act on every idea during this retrograde, but you do want to let your mind open to new possibilities.

Aquarius Sun & Rising:

Aquarius, your attention turns inward this week, in a “let me get my space right” kind of way. With Mercury in Taurus, your home, roots, and emotional foundation come into focus, and it can feel a little slower than your usual pace. You might notice yourself wanting more quiet, comfort, or control over your environment. At the same time, that fixed earth energy can clash with your need for movement and change, so there can be moments where you feel stuck or slightly irritated without fully knowing why. The key is not to rush out of that feeling. Pay attention to what actually makes you feel grounded right now. Once that feels steady, everything else flows a lot easier.

Meanwhile, Pluto begins its retrograde in your sign on May 6th, kickstarting a much deeper, more personal process — but it doesn’t have to feel heavy. It’s more like you’re stepping back and observing your own evolution. The version of yourself you said you wanted to become earlier this year… does it still fit? Are you moving toward it, or has something shifted along the way? This retrograde brings forth a sense of personal excavation, but you’re not digging with urgency, you’re exploring with curiosity. Treat it like an experiment… this is your life. You’re allowed to change the hypothesis or test out new ways of being, new identities, new directions. The goal isn’t to lock anything in right now, but to get closer to what actually feels aligned.

Pisces Sun & Rising:

Pisces, your voice softens this week… but it also gets clearer. With Mercury now in Taurus, your communication sector takes on a more sensual, intentional tone. You’re not speaking just to fill space, you’re intentionally choosing your words, timing, and energy. There’s something more flirtatious and artistic about how you express yourself too… whether that’s through conversations, writing, or just the way you move through your day.

At the same time, you’re becoming more selective thanks to Taurus Season. Not everyone gets access to you like that. You’re learning how to name what you need, what you’re okay with, and what you’re not… one conversation at a time. And people can feel when you mean what you say.

Pluto retrograde in Aquarius begins on the 6th, leading to a quieter shift behind the scenes, in your solitude and spirituality sector. This retrograde is less about diving deep into shadow work and more about changing your relationship to it. You already know how to “go there”. This time, it’s about letting healing feel lighter, less consuming, like something that integrates into your life instead of taking it over. You might feel drawn to spending more time alone, reflecting without overanalyzing, or releasing the pressure to constantly “fix” something within yourself. Over the course of the next five months, prepare to feel a peaceful detachment that allows your spiritual journey to evolve on its own timeline.

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On the first Monday in May, the biggest stars in Hollywood and fashion will take to the iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the 2026 Met Gala. This year, the annual fundraising event will celebrate the Costume Institute’s new exhibition, “Costume Art” with a starry group of co-chairs including Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and Beyoncé, who will be making her grand return to the steps after a decade. 

But before the glitz and the glamour of the Met steps, the stars seek residence at some of New York’s most luxurious hotels to get ready for fashion’s biggest night out. And when it comes to the crème de la crème of Manhattan hotels, there’s nowhere quite like The Mark. A crown jewel of the Upper East Side and just a few blocks down from the Met, the historic hotel serves as the unofficial Met Gala red carpet, with a handful of the gala’s guests showcasing their Met looks as they depart from the hotel’s famed lobby before heading to the gala’s grand staircase.

The elegance of The Mark is undeniable. From the second you approach the hotel’s black-and-white umbrellas, which line 77th street, and walk into the sleek, yet sophisticated lobby, you experience a level of luxury that is inherently fabulous. So it only makes sense that The Mark is the place celebrities want to be before and after the Met Gala. But what goes into putting on a picture-perfect, pre-Met production, you wonder? Well, a lot.

From months of organizing hotel bookings to executing the strategic Met Monday elevator system, over the years, the Mark staff have perfected their Met Monday operation, which successfully gets an assembly line of stars from their rooms and suites, down to the lobby, and cleared to walk the custom-made Mark red carpet before heading off to the gala. The system, which requires the help of the concierge, security, elevator operators, and staff on every level of the 16-floor hotel, is no easy feat. But like everything at the Mark, the team pulls it off with an effortless elegance. Take it from The Mark’s Associate Director of Marketing, Allegra Acosta, and Chief Concierge Maria Wittrop, Met Monday veterans who are sharing the inside details of the hotel’s craziest, but most fun day of the year. 

Make York Mark with a Hotel Stay: 

The Mark is known for its chic, black-and-white striped aesthetic, seen as part of the hotel’s exterior and interior design, from the outdoor umbrellas to the marble lobby floor and accent pillows. The black and white design theme continues throughout the property’s restaurants and magnificent guest rooms. So, exactly how much does it cost for a stay in one of those iconic hotel rooms? If you’re looking to book a stay in a classic queen or king room, the starting price is around $1395 a night (depending on the season). But it’s The Mark’s Penthouse Collection, featuring three sprawling sky suites that celebrities love to call home on Met weekend. 

Nestled on the 14th floor are the Madison and Central Park Penthouses, both overlooking their respective streets. The two penthouse suites, which start at $45K a night, feature multiple bedrooms, a kitchen, a dining room, an entertainment room, a grand terrace equipped with plush loungers and umbrellas, and more bathrooms, varnished with the hotel’s signature pale green finishes, than anyone could ever want or need. And when stars check into the penthouses for events like the Met Gala, best believe that all of the bed and sitting rooms are full. 

“When a celebrity checks into one of these suites [for the Met Gala], they’ll come with full glam squads, team members, stylists, tailors, everything, using every room,” Acosta tells R29. 

And for those who can indulge in the finest of luxury, let us introduce you to the Mark Penthouse. With elevators that open directly to the 16th-floor suite (think Blair Waldorf’s penthouse pad in Gossip Girl), the Mark penthouse is one of the finest in New York. At $100K a night, the penthouse has all of the standard amenities when it comes to multiple bedrooms and living spaces, but unlike the “smaller” penthouses, the Mark Suite boasts a unique second-floor terrace, a master bedroom with a double-sided, glass fireplace, a bathroom that has an infinity-style tub, and its very own tech-savvy gym. The Mark Penthouse terrace, with its 360-degree view of the UES, is also a spot for wellness. Equipped with a sleek, black-and-white plunge tub, the spa can be used for either cold dips or as a hot tub. But that’s not all. With the terrace being a prime spot for penthouse guests to entertain, it only makes sense that the hotel takes full advantage of the rooftop space. In the summer, during the US Open, the Mark can transform the terrace into guests’ own personal mini tennis court. And in the winter? A private mini skating rink at the guests’ request, of course. Talk about top-tier service. 

Checking in for the Met Gala:

So how do famous faces make the most coveted hotel reservation of the year? Well, for the most part, individual fashion houses and brands are tasked with the responsibility of reaching out to The Mark’s sales team to coordinate hotel bookings with requests starting as early as August, ahead of the upcoming Met Gala. Then, with all the rooms and penthouses booked (with some celebrities requesting the same rooms year after year), Met guests begin to check into the hotel on Thursday and Friday before the gala so they can settle in for a weekend of pre-parties before the big day. 
“It’s a very busy weekend. There’s a ton of deliveries and people running around. It’s chaos, but it’s very fun,” Acosta says.

Operation Met Monday at The Mark: 

Met Monday is one of the busiest days for The Mark Hotel, and it’s all about traffic flow both inside and outside of the property walls. But as chaotic as it all sounds, the hotel staff are masters in their own art of Met Gala orchestration. Inside the lobby, the hotel’s elevators and staircase serve as the main vehicles for guest traffic flow, which is fluidly navigated by the system run by the hotel’s concierge, security, and the manual elevator operator teams. On Met Monday, guests begin the process of getting ready for the annual gala in the wee hours of the morning, with The Mark’s two elevators, which take you up and down the building’s 16 floors, running normally. But once the clock strikes 4 pm, the elevators switch from automatic to manual, as the concierge starts a call-based system with associates on each hotel floor and security teams. 

“We have a security guard inside each elevator, that is operated manually, and we know that talent is ready to come down to the red carpet through the associates stationed on that floor,” Wittrop explains. “Each talent has a number. We are very discreet at The Mark. So we’d just say, ‘Number 6 is coming down.’ Then the security officer will make sure that the elevator goes up to that floor and then bring the talent down to the lobby to have their moment on the red carpet, which is very magical.”

But the operation doesn’t stop in the lobby. A-list guests then have to find their transportation from the Mark to the gala. But like the elevator system, the hotel staff also has an operation for guests’ pick-up.

“So the magic is that we have [all of the cars] stationed on 77th between Madison and Park. (The hotel is between Madison and 5th). The street is closed down for us, and it’s a common misconception that 60 sprinters are just sitting in front of the hotel. I don’t know where they would fit!” she continued, going on to explain that, like the talent, each car has a number that is then called out by the hotel’s coordinators, letting the talent know that their vehicle is ready to pull up in front of the hotel. Once the vehicle is called, it will turn onto 77th, in front of the hotel, for the talent to step into their ride for the night. “It’s all very technical.”

And while the elevator might be the preferred option for those with larger or heavier garments, the fastest and most discreet way to get to the lobby is simply by using the stairs. In The Mark book by Assouline, Karlie Kloss is quoted as saying, “Tip, take the stairs.”

“It’s an insider tip for celebrities and talent that are staying here and getting ready with us because it is so busy on that Monday. And while we have the manual elevators, if you want to avoid being seen, use the stairs,” Acosta says. 

Party Dogs and Crisp Cocktails:

On the night of the Met Gala, the hotel’s iconic hot dog cart takes center stage in the hotel’s lobby. Yes, the hotel is known for its fine dining restaurants like Caviar Kaspia and The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges, but the famed hot dog stand is an institution all its own. “The Mark hot dog cart has become such a big staple, because we really emphasize the high, low concept. Obviously, we’re on the Upper East Side and this is a luxury hotel, but the hot dogs by Jean-Georges Vongerichten are $6,” Acosta explains. “And Heri, who’s our hot dog connoisseur, has his special toppings and has become an amazing icon for everybody on the Upper East Side, whether you’re staying at the hotel or floating by, going to Central Park, or going to Madison Avenue.” On a typical day, you can find Heri and his stand just outside of the hotel, serving the Upper East Side’s favorite hot dogs from 9 am to 5 pm. But following the gala, the stand moves inside for the hotel’s special celebrity guests as they return from the gala, officially ready to kick off a long night of after parties. From the lobby, guests also pour into The Mark Bar, where they enjoy cocktails made by the hotel’s resident bartender and celebrity favorite, Vlad, who will be celebrating nine years with the hotel next month. “It’s really a time when the talent comes back and is relaxed — the gala is over, so we have our hot dog cart with Mark French fries, and drinks flowing. Everyone is in the lobby, and it’s just really a relaxed, celebratory moment that’s very special,” Acosta adds.

Mark Moments and Extraordinary Service:

When working Met Monday at The Mark, there’s no shortage of surreal moments wrapped up in gala chaos, with a melange of A-list stars, press, PR teams, stylists, and more flooding The Mark’s iconic lobby and running throughout the hotel’s luxe halls. And while there’s an abundance of crazy moments to account for over the years, there are a few standouts that have stuck with the hotel staff.

“It always feels like a blur, but last year, Charli XCX got behind the concierge booth when she returned to the hotel from the gala and was playing concierge with the phone and with the team. She said she always wanted to be a concierge,” Acosta recalls, in addition to sharing one of the hotel’s most far-fetched room service requests. “A few years prior, somebody was very famished, and right before they were leaving, they requested 4 or 5 olives, exactly, just to tide them over.”

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 06: Charli XCX departs The Mark Hotel for 2024 Met Gala on May 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for The Mark Hotel)

“I remember when Tyla came back, after the gala, with only half of the sand dress — they then handed [the cut half] to me. So I’m holding her half of this dress, and it literally only fit my arm!” Wittrop says of the unique fashion moment. “We get all of their dresses, as they are then picked up by the fashion houses, so you get to see the dresses you saw on the carpet.”

And with the caravan of black cars and sprinters gathering around the hotel, sometimes things don’t always go as planned. Wittrop recalls how a minor hiccup in transportation plans sent her team into immediate action. 

“One time, a talent’s Sprinter didn’t show up, so we arranged to take the talent in a pedicab to the Met,” she says. “We are always prepared for literally anything.” And that’s what we call top-notch service. Nothing beats the magic of Met Monday at the Mark.

Tune into Met Monday at The Mark livestream on the hotel’s Instagram after 4 PM for a first peek at all the Met Gala action.

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When it comes to Mother’s Day gifting, a few classics always hit: personalized accessories, meaningful jewelry, a spa day voucher — and, of course, a beautiful bottle of perfume. They’re reliable for a reason, even if they’re not the most original. (While adorable in its own way, a handmade coupon for chores doesn’t quite cut it in 2026!) And while these go-to ideas have earned their status, that doesn’t mean they have to feel done to death — especially when it comes to fragrance. 

Whether she gravitates toward crisp citrus, skin-like musks, rich gourmands, or modern florals, there’s a scent that’s every bit as dynamic as she is. Below, you’ll find nine luxe, highly giftable fragrances for every kind of mother — from the minimalist to the maximalist, and everyone in between. She may already have a signature scent, but there’s something undeniably special about discovering a new favorite. Consider it the ultimate “favorite child” move — and a fitting tribute to the women who raised us. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Hèrmes Barénia Eau de Parfum

Hèrmes’ interpretation of the trendy skin scent strikes the perfect balance between timeless and modern. It’s the Birkin bag of perfumes: Goes with everything, and instantly elevates any occasion thanks to its warm floral profile, punctuated with notes of lily and berry alongside grounding patchouli and oakwood. 

Hermès Barénia Eau de Parfum, $, available at Nordstrom

Rabanne One Million Gold

Our beauty director name-checks Rabanne’s One Million Gold as “one of the most complimented fragrances I own” — high praise from someone whose perfume wardrobe rivals a duty-free boutique. With its sparkling blend of rose, vanilla, and musk, consider this the gift of turning Mom into a certified compliment magnet. 

Rabanne Million Gold for Her Eau de Parfum, $, available at Sephora

Miu Miu Fleur de Lait Eau de Parfum 

Mango and coconut milk might call to mind her favorite beachside cocktail, but plot twist: they’re the star notes in Miu Miu’s latest fragrance. Tropical fruit and creamy coconut lean into that “expensive sunscreen” territory, while floral osmanthus and apricot add dimension — making it a more nuanced, elevated take on a solar scent. 

Miu Miu Fleur de Lait Eau de Parfum, $, available at Sephora

Summer Fridays Sunlit Vanilla Eau de Parfum 

Vanilla fragrances often get dismissed as overly saccharine or dessert-like — but not this one. Summer Fridays’ debut scent, Sunlit Vanilla, feels distinctly grown-up, pairing a warm, crème brûlée–like richness with salted caramel and tonka bean for a finish that’s indulgent without being overpowering or cloying. 

Summer Fridays Sunlit Vanilla Eau de Parfum, $, available at Sephora

Prada Infusion de Santal Chai Eau de Parfum

For the mom who loves her daily chai latte, we suggest Prada’s new spicy-sweet Infusion de Santal Chai. With its notes of chai accord, sandalwood, and a burst of invigorating citrus, it’s all at once comforting, cozy, and a little bold – not totally unlike someone else we know… 

Prada Infusion de Santal Chai, $, available at Sephora

Glossier You Soie Eau de Parfum

The newest addition to the Glossier You Cinematic Universe comes in the form of Soie, a solar, fresh take on the ambrox eau that’s become a modern day classic. Citrusy bergamot meets creamy rice milk and evening jasmine for a summery scent that mom will love it for beach vacays and beyond.  

Glossier You Soie Eau de Parfum, $, available at Sephora

Parfums de Marly Delina La Rosée Eau de Parfum Spray

For a rose that doesn’t read overly buttoned-up, consider Delina La Rosée — a fresher, airier take on Parfums de Marly’s cult-favorite. Centered on Turkish rose, it’s brightened with juicy lychee and grounded by vetiver and soft white musk, creating a scent that feels equal parts romantic and modern. 

Parfums de Marly Delina La Rosée Eau de Parfum Spray, $, available at Nordstrom

Emporio Armani Power of You Eau de Parfum

 
The name says it all: Armani’s Power of You is a fitting fragrance pairing for the strongest woman you know. With notes of vibrant passion fruit, floral frangipani, and comforting vanilla absolute, it strikes a balance between vibrant and warm, with just the right amount of sweetness. 

Emporio Armani Power of You Eau de Parfum, $, available at Ulta Beauty

Chanel CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE Eau de Parfum

With a vibrant mix of raspberry, rose, geranium, and cedar, Chanel’s latest Chance fragrance leans fruity-floral with a fresh, modern edge. It’s a natural fit for the mom who romanticizes everything — and isn’t afraid of a little adventure. After all, “young at heart” is more of a mindset than a number. 

Chanel CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE Eau de Parfum, $, available at Nordstrom

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I’ve watched The Devil Wears Prada at least once a year since it was released in 2006 — It’s like my religion except the only devil I acknowledge is Miranda Priestley. So, naturally, I was both ecstatic and skeptical when a sequel was announced. The dreaded “sequel curse” has cheapened some of our favorite romcoms like Mamma Mia!, Bridget Jones’s Diary, and My Big Fat Greek Wedding, especially when there are long gaps in between the original and the reboot. And with the 20-year gap between The Devil Wears Prada and its newly released sequel, it could have gone very wrong… but it didn’t.

Thanks to the return of the core-four cast members — Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci — along with crew members from the original production and costume design teams, it managed to hold onto its charm and wit. The Devil Wears Prada 2 calls back to many of our favorite scenes, quotes, and outfits while being timely, reflecting the very real media and journalism crisis we’re facing today.

So, despite all the early leaked paparazzi photos or the viral color grading issues (which has dimmed so many remakes, sequels, and nearly every Hulu show), the movie does deliver on nostalgia and makes a strong case for sequels being great. This is everything The Devil Wears Prada 2 got right.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 spoilers ahead!

The core cast is back, the new characters are fresh, and the cameos aren’t cheesy

(L-R): Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) and Andie Sachs (Anne Hathaway) in 20th Century Studios’ THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2. Photo by Macall Polay. © 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

In the sequel, we find Miranda Priestly (Streep) and Nigel Kipling (Tucci) in similar spirits and roles at Runway magazine. The editor-in-chief is still forthright and hilariously un-politically correct. Meanwhile, Emily Charlton (Blunt) has surprisingly left the fashion publication, now running luxury retail marketing for Dior. And 20 years after Andy Sachs (Hathaway) quit Runway, we see her living out her dream as a successful journalist at the New York Vanguard newsroom… that is before things take a turn.

In addition to Andy’s best friend Lily (Tracie Thoms) returning to the sequel, there’s a host of new characters. From Miranda’s assistants Amari (Simone Ashley) and Charlie (Caleb Hearon) to Andy’s new assistant Jin (Helen Shen), there’s a younger, but not-too-woke set of employees that reflect today’s knowledgeable and scrappy fashion scene, without being as demeaning as Emly. Plus, there’s a new love interest who isn’t absolutely horrible like Nate was!

We also get some new big-name actors like Lucy Liu as wealthy philanthropist Sasha and Justin Theroux as her grimy ex-husband Benji. But my absolute delight was spotting all the half-second cameos from today’s most viral personalities (Paige DeSorbo, Amelia Dimoldenberg) and supermodels (Heidi Klum, Ashley Graham), plus plot points with iconic designers (Donatella Versace, Marc Jacobs). And of course, as it was leaked beforehand, Lady Gaga makes a cameo as herself, and her performance doesn’t disappoint.

The plotline portrays today’s media crisis very, very accurately 

(L-R) Anne Hathaway as Andy Sachs, Meryl Streep as Miranda Priestly and Stanley Tucci as Nigel Kipling in 20th Century Studios’ THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2. Photo by Macall Polay. © 2026 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Right off the bat, we’re brought into the reality of the media industry today, and it truly made me cringe at how accurate and close-to-home it was. Andy gets fired from her publication… just moments before winning an award, then makes an impassioned speech pleading that: “Journalism still fucking matters.” Meanwhile, Miranda is facing the media world’s real-life shifts, like legacy magazines being sold as traditional print shifts to digital and readership declining (because as Nigel puts it, Runway‘s not a real magazine anymore), plus budget cuts and a lack of advertising money.

One of the hurdles that needs to be overcome by the characters is how readers are craving ethical fashion brands and demanding credible journalism and in-depth storytelling, which makes Andy’s new Features Editor role critical for bringing substance back to Runway.

Some more on-the-nose plot points consist of Miranda being up for a promotion as Global Head of Content of Elias-Clark (much like how Anna Wintour was recently promoted to Chief Content Officer for Condé Nast, no matter how much Streep doesn’t like to admit that she’s playing a caricature of the media mogul). And throughout the movie, more and more conflicts arise, reminding us just how fleeting and chaotic the industry is.

Andy goes begrudgingly from Paris Fashion Week → excitedly to Milan Fashion Week

As we all know, Andy goes to Paris in the first movie, basically against her will, to the detriment of Emily, and leading to a job-ending moment. And while we don’t see too much of the fashion spectacles in Paris, a new fashion capitol gets the spotlight in the sequel. This time around, Andy finds herself at Milan Fashion Week in better spirits, despite the Runway obstacles she’s facing, and shows out in bold looks. (Yes, we get a fashion montage of her and Miranda’s many front-row outfits.)

But Milan, which is known as one of the more experimental Fashion Weeks, almost becomes a main character in this movie, highlighting monuments and fashion houses and delightfully sprinkling some Italian conversations into the storyline.

Yes, there are callbacks to of all our favorite scenes, quotes, and fashion moments

Speaking of fashion montages, The Devil Wears Prada 2 delivers on all the nostalgic references we wanted, from Nigel’s fashion closet makeover — what was once Dolce & Gabbana and Jimmy Choo is now Fendi and Toteme — to Andy’s collection of work outfits when entering the Runway offices.

There are also several scenes and callbacks that parallel the first movie and made me giddy, from a reference to Cerulean blue belts, Nigel and Andy eating in the cafeteria, and Miranda’s work coat collection — though this time, HR complaints have halted the editor-in-chief from chucking them onto her assistants desks.

You can be sure that iconic lines like “A million girls would kill for this job” and “That’s all” get said once or twice too. Plus, there are some new one-liners that are sure to become insanely quotable, like: “Look what TJ Maxx dragged in” and “May the bridges I burn light my way.”

The fashion and outfits make a case for becoming just as iconic as the first movie

One of the main reasons we love The Devil Wears Prada is rightfully because of the fashion, no matter how absurd it can sometimes be. And costume designer Molly Rogers supplied tons of looks that we’ll want to replicate (either at the office or for Halloween).

Andy has luckily found her sense of style after becoming a big thrift-shopper, finding statement pieces like an $11 Margiela jacket that Nigel actually approves of, and that she can afford on a journalist’s salary. There are references to the iconic Chanel thigh-high boots (which she gave away, gasp!), plus there’s even an appearance from the Cerulean sweater (keep your eyes peeled!). But today, Andy regularly opts for monochromatic suits or matching sets, sleek jumpsuits, lots of plaid, and (so many) skinny ties for everything from the office to the runways. And her wardrobe may just turn her into a modern style icon all over again.

What surprised me is that there feels like there’s twice as many outfits in this movie — so many that a few were cut from the final edit, like Hathaway’s proclaimed favorite, an white T-shirt train outfit, and Rogers’ favorite, which she tells Refinery29 was a dramatic black gown worn by Emily in a cut scene. There truly are so many blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments that did make it in though, that you’ll want to watch the movie multiple times to spot all the great fashion. 

The soundtrack blends nostalgic tunes with hits from today’s biggest It girls 

Doechii, Lady Gaga at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards held at the Dolby Theatre on March 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Christoper Polk/Variety via Getty Images)

Music played such a big role in the first movie with songs like “Vogue” and “Suddenly I See” becoming synonymous with specific scenes in the larger cultural zeitgeist. And the sequel does an incredible job of bringing back some of the originals, while introducing a soundtrack of today’s biggest (and newest) artists.

I found myself bopping along to hits from Dua Lipa, Olivia Dean, Raye, Miley Cyrus, Laufey, and SZA, as well as original songs from up-and-comer Sienna Spiro plus Doechii and Lady Gaga. The duo’s song “Runway” is an instant hit — it’s been been stuck in my head since it was released — and backs a fun, fashion-filled scene that brings so much energy into the movie.

I didn’t see the plot twist coming, and it’s juicy

Emily Blunt as Emily Charlton in 20th Century Studios’ THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2. Photo by Macall Polay. © 2026 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

I truly don’t want to spoil the big plot twists of the movie because the gasps that myself and the audience made as it all unfolded were great in-person movie theater moments. But let’s just say someone needed to replace Andy’s former boyfriend Nate as the biggest villain. The catty and competitive natures of the fashion and media industries doesn’t go untouched, with plenty of drama to take us from start to finish.

And so when the credits started rolling, I found myself letting out a literal sigh of relief. I didn’t hate it. I actually really liked it. I wanted to talk to my friends and family about it. And I immediately bought my tickets to see it in the theater again.

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Arianators, you might want to take a seat for this one. After months of speculation, Ariana Grande has finally announced the highly anticipated release of her eighth studio album, Petal. It comes after eagle-eyed fans spotted a series of potential teasers across the star’s socials, including flower emojis and repeated references to the number eight. Although she’s spent much of her recent time acting, this release proves Grande hasn’t left music behind.

Below, we’ve rounded up everything we know about Ariana Grande’s eighth studio album, Petal, including the release date, track numbers, and production details.

What is Ariana Grande’s eighth album called and when will it be released?

Grande will release her eighth studio album on July 31, 2026. On April 29, she shared a series of black-and-white photos of herself on Instagram, captioned “Petal” and accompanied by the release date, along with a link in her bio to preorder the album.

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A post shared by Ariana Grande (@arianagrande)

Do we know the official tracklist for Ariana Grande’s Petal?

While Grande is yet to announce the tracklist for the new album, fans are anticipating at least 12 new tracks, as per her last two albums, Eternal Sunshine and Positions.

In a video posted to Grande’s Instagram page, she describes Petal as “something that is full of life and growing through the cracks of something cold and hard and challenging.”

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A post shared by Ariana Grande (@arianagrande)

How can I preorder Ariana Grande’s new album, Petal?

Fans can now preorder Petal across a range of formats, including cassettes, CDs, and translucent LPs, here. The star has also released exclusive album merch, including baby tees, hoodies, socks, and hats.

Will Ariana Grande be taking Petal on tour?

The release of Grande’s eighth studio album on July 31 falls in the middle of the singer’s Eternal Sunshine Tour, which opens in Oakland on June 6 and ends at London’s O2 Arena on September 1. The tour marks Grande’s first since her Sweetener World Tour in 2019.

The album’s mid-tour release has fans buzzing with excitement, certain they’ll be among the first to experience the new Petal tracks live on stage.

What other information do we have about Ariana Grande’s new album?

While little has been revealed about the themes and song names of the new album at this stage, we do know Grande has once again teamed up with Ilya, the Swedish writer and producer who has been a frequent collaborator since her fourth studio album, Sweetener.

Will Ariana Grande be touring in 2026?

The Eternal Sunshine Tour is set to kick off in North America in June, before heading to Europe. As Grande sets her sights more on acting, fans are speculating this may be her last time on the road for a long time.

As we learn more information about Grande’s next album, we’ll be sure to update this article.

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I get my nails done every two weeks like clockwork, but I’m often stuck on which design to choose — the options are overwhelming. Optical-illusion French or deep French tips? Chrome or cat eye on top? This week, though, I’ve never been more certain about what I want, largely because it’s all over my feed.

Introducing chrome croc nails. It’s a combination of blooming gel polish, designed to mimic crocodile-scale texture, paired with an extended French tip finished with a dusting of chrome powder — and I have a feeling it’s about to explode in salons everywhere. 

What are chrome croc nails and how do you achieve them? 

Chrome croc nails use blooming gel — a specialist polish that disperses and expands on contact with the nail — to create a textured, scale-like pattern. A French tip is then added, with a fine line running down the center of the nail, before everything is finished with a dusting of chrome powder. The result is a slick, almost reptilian effect, reminiscent of crocodile scales and a tail. 

“The technique is all about control and layering,” says Natalia Mercedes, a nail artist and founder of Sad Girl Nails Studio in New York City. “I start by applying blooming gel, then use a dotting tool to map out the ‘croc’ pattern as it organically spreads,” she adds. “Once that’s set, I go in with a matte gel to isolate specific areas before applying chrome, which gives the design that dimensional, almost reflective finish.” The croc effect really comes down to dot placement, says Mercedes. Specifically, how the blooming gel disperses: “It naturally creates those irregular, scale-like shapes that mimic crocodile skin,” she says. We love this set by Miata Nails.

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A post shared by Miata Nails | DMV Nail Tech 🧚‍♂️ (@miatanails)

There’s a reason why chrome croc nails are trending right now. Firstly, we can’t get enough of the French manicure, but we’re also keen to put our own personal spin on it. “It’s also incredibly versatile,” says Mercedes. “You can play with soft pastels or bold, high-contrast chromes, which makes it perfect for spring.” It’s also pretty practical. “Thanks to the pattern and negative space, it grows out in a way that still looks intentional,” adds Mercedes.

Do chrome croc nails work on all nail shapes and lengths?

Happily, chrome croc nails work on all nail shapes, from short and square, like these incredible nails by @nailsbyrayshel, to long and pointed; your nail artist just needs to adjust the placement of the blooming gel so that it remains visible beneath the chrome, says Mercedes. Then there’s tailoring the French tip to hug the edge of the nail, whether you prefer it skinny — aka micro-French — or a little thicker. “That said, longer shapes like almond or coffin tend to showcase the design best because they give the pattern more room to evolve,” says Mercedes.

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Inspired? Here are the best chrome croc nail designs we’ve spotted on Instagram recently.  

Sunset Croc

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A post shared by Almond Slayer Lo (@drilledbylo)

Color-changing chrome meets neon orange croc print in this almond set by @drilledbylo, proving the design works just as well on long, rounded nails as it does on short, square ones. 

Cheetah Croc

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A post shared by 𝐑𝐚𝐞🌹 (@wildflowerr.studio)

Layering taupe blooming gel beneath a deeper brown has transformed this croc print into a more cheetah effect. The purple chrome detail is the finishing touch on a truly unique nail look by Rae at Wildflowerr Studio. 

Silver Croc

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A post shared by Olabisi Debrick (@obabynailz)

Delicate white blooming gel dots paired with a slim, extended chrome tip make these short, square nails by Olabisi Debrick feel dainty and chic. 

French Croc

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A post shared by #DMV Nail Tech (@niquenails_)

The way that nail artist @niquenails_ has arranged the blooming gel dots along the top of the nail gives the illusion of a French tip. 

Sky-Blue Croc

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A post shared by Almond Slayer Lo (@drilledbylo)

This sky-blue blooming gel and silver chrome pairing by Lo gives this almond set an icy finish, yet it still feels perfectly suited to spring. 

Rainbow Chrome Croc

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A post shared by Gabriela (@gcnailedit)

The white blooming gel dots on a nude base echo a French manicure, but it’s the color-shifting chrome — catching and reflecting the light in different tones — that elevates this look by nail artist Gabriela. 

Golden Croc

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A post shared by Eve ✨ Your New Nail Girl (@curedbyeve)

If you thought this look only worked on long nails, think again. Here, gold chrome curves around the edge like a French tip, subtly elongating the nail. The clear base makes the design really pop on this set by nail artist Eve. 

Sage Croc

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A post shared by BBEL (@beautybyelizabethloves)

This two-tone green set by Elizabeth Loves is so cute, and we love how the chrome catches the light, looking almost neon in places. 

Stiletto Croc

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A post shared by The Lab (@nailzdid_byjoey)

The contrast between chocolate blooming gel and silver chrome shouldn’t work on paper, but it’s totally mesmerizing on these long stiletto nails by @nailzdid_byjoey on Instagram. 

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