At the  NAACP Image Awards  last weekend, actress  Sophia Bush  said what needed to be said, and she did not hold back. Speaking to Refin...

At the NAACP Image Awards last weekend, actress Sophia Bush said what needed to be said, and she did not hold back. Speaking to Refinery29’s Kathleen Newman-Bremang, Bush delivered an urgent message to her fellow white women about Black culture and showing up for Black communities.

Bush made the impassioned statement, which has since gone viral, standing beside her best friend and business partner, Nia Batts. She also shared the clip to her Instagram account and said in her caption, “Ten toes down, always.” Her full remarks are below.

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Ulta's 21 Days of Beauty sale  — one of the year’s most highly anticipated shopping events — is back for spring, and the deals are bette...

Ulta's 21 Days of Beauty sale — one of the year’s most highly anticipated shopping events — is back for spring, and the deals are better than ever before. From March 6 until March 26, there will be flash sales every day with 50% off different products, from makeup and skincare to hair and beauty tools
 
But here's the exciting twist: Alongside these daily 24-hour markdowns, the retailer is adding Weekly Beauty Steals, giving you an entire seven days to snag discounts on cult favorite products. In other words, this is the perfect opportunity to score an excellent deal on everything you've been eyeing for your beauty cabinet, including investment purchases and holy grail restocks. 
 
With three whole weeks of epic beauty offers, there’s a lot to choose from. Luckily, our team of editors has combed through the entire sale calendar to highlight the deals truly worth your attention — and your money. Expect rare discounts on everything from premium hairstyling tools to signature scents, and first-time savings on new-to-sale brands like Medicube, Half Magic, Milk Makeup, Farmacy, and many others. 

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

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Live Tinted HUESTICK Complexion Stick  


Date: Week of March 6–March 12 

A few swipes of Live Tinted's bestselling Huestick is all you need to achieve buildable, medium-to-full coverage with a soft, matte finish that lasts all day. Plus, you can use lighter shades to highlight and darker ones to contour. 

MAC Cosmetics Glow Play Cushiony Blush 


Date: March 6 

IMO, this is a highly underrated blush — and if you haven’t tried it yourself, don’t miss out on doing so while it’s half off.  
Its powder-meets-cream texture reminds me of Glossier Cloud Paint Plush Blush The trick, in my experience, comes down to how you apply it: I like a dense, tapered blush brush, which grabs just enough pigment and blends it out into a soft, diffused wash of color. 

Medicube Zero Pore Pad 


Date: March 7 

Our beauty director raved about Medicube’s Zero Pore Pads, which “worked magic” on her skin’s tone and texture, thanks to its combination of two exfoliating acids — lactic and salicylic — which gently fade hyperpigmentation and keep breakouts at bay. We’ll be stocking up. 

St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse 


Date: March 8 

This bestselling self-tanner is a classic for a reason: It works in as short as an hour to bestow a natural (and never orange) tan. Word to the wise: Avoid paying for a spray tan later this year and snap this up while it’s on sale. 

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Scrub Shampoo 

 
Date: March 9 

Another modern classic is Briogeo’s fan-favorite Scalp Revival scrub, which lends a minty-fresh sensation to roots without overstripping. Flakes, grease, and buildup? We don’t know her. 

Kate Somerville EradiKate 3% Sulfur Daily Foaming Cleanser 


Date: March 12 

Kate Somerville’s EradiKate range is among my most tried-and-true products for keeping my skin clear and balanced. While this daily cleanser is pricey, it's much kinder to my wallet when it’s on sale for $23. My pores look visibly minimized when I consistently use this, thanks to the oil-absorbing sulfur in the formula. 

First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA 


Date: Week of March 13–March 19 

I’ve tried endless body scrubs and peels in an effort to treat my keratosis pilaris (aka rough skin texture or bumps), and nothing has worked better than First Aid Beauty’s KP Bump Eraser. In addition to pumice beads (which provide physical exfoliation), I’m convinced the gamechanger is the 10% alpha hydroxy acid (a blend of glycolic & lactic acids), which adds chemical exfoliation to achieve touchably smoother skin after a single use.  

Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm 


Date: March 13 

I’ve converted everyone and their mother (including my own mom!) to Farmacy’s Green Clean Cleansing Balm, which is making its Ulta 21 Days of Beauty sale debut this month. Nothing I've tried works better to melt away every morsel of makeup and dirt, but it doesn’t leave any greasy residue behind.  

Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel


Date: March 14 

Anastasia Beverly Hills’ bestselling clear gel is perfect for getting a lifted, laminated brow-like effect, and offers soft, long-lasting hold that won’t budge all day. 

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip 12-Hour Hydrating Gel Skin Tint 


Date: March 15 

Milk Makeup’s new skin tint offers sheer coverage with a dewy finish, and is made with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and squalane to offer long-lasting hydration and skin barrier support. “This skin tint feels virtually weightless, and just a pea-sized amount is enough to blur redness and dark marks,” says our beauty director of the stuff. 

Half Magic Glitterpuck Pressed Glitter


Date: March 15

This is my favorite glitter right now. The texture is unlike anything I’ve tried — it almost feels wet and cooling as you apply it — and the finish is the prettiest, most ethereal veil of sparkle. Plus, the amount you get is surprisingly generous — mine has easily lasted me for months.

T3 Aire IQ Intelligent Hair Dryer 


Date: March 17 

To call T3 Aire IQ simply another hair dryer is a bit like calling an Hermès Birkin a purse. This smart dryer automatically adjusts heat and airflow to your hair texture and has a built-in memory feature that saves your presets for next time.  

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil 


Date: March 18 

This Japanese drugstore staple is easily one of the best oil cleansers I’ve ever tried. It has a decadent, silky texture — thanks in large part to olive oil as the primary ingredient — which leaves my skin feeling softer after rinsing. I’ll be stocking up on the jumbo 6.7 ounce bottle (a steal at under $16), which will easily last me months. 

Bumble and bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Hair Mist 


Date: March 19 

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is exactly how this Bumble and bumble heat protectant functions in my routine. The formula is ultra-lightweight, so it never weighs down my bob, while still conditioning, smoothing frizz, and boosting elasticity. It also doubles as a hair fragrance, thanks to notes of blood orange, orchid, and blonde woods. 

IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Protein Smoothing Spray 


Date: March 20 

I’ve gone through multiple cans of IGK’s Good Behavior, which is really like four hair products in one; it’s a heat protectant, smoothing treatment, shine mist, and fragrance all in one. A viral bestseller doesn’t always live up to the hype, but in this case, it’s well-deserved. 

Billie Eilish Eilish Eau de Parfum 

 
Date: March 21 

Billie Eilish’s suite of perfumes are total compliment magnets — just take it from our beauty director, who has been loving No. 3 this year. If you have yet to experience the artist’s fragrances, it makes sense to start with the OG Eilish Eau de Parfum. Her original amber gourmand, layered with sugared petals, creamy vanilla, and warm musk, is half off on the 21st only — but we have a feeling you’ll love it so much, you’ll gladly repurchase at full price. 

The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum 


Date: March 23 

The Ordinary’s sunscreen serum is every bit as good as you think it would be, and it's all down to its hydrating, serum-like texture that lends broad-spectrum SPF 45 protection while being non-comedogenic (less likely to clog pores) and friendly under makeup. “It gives my skin a juicy, dewy finish similar to some Korean sunscreens I've tried — but at a fraction of the price,” says our beauty director. 

Redken Naked Gloss Lightweight Hair Oil


Date: March 25 

Fans of hair oil, rejoice. Redken’s bestselling Naked Gloss is on sale for the first time at Ulta and is a one-stop-shop for boosting shine, enhancing color vibrancy, smoothing frizz, and adding heat protection. Plus, I love that it can be used on dry hair as well as a quick solve for flyaways and dull strands. 

DIBS Beauty Go To Glossy Balm 


Date: Week of March 20–March 26 

Your new emotional support lip gloss is here, and half off for an entire week (!) to close out Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty. With antioxidant-rich cherry kernel oil as its hero ingredient, we’re confident saying that this shimmery lippie feels every bit as good as it looks. 

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PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 04: Bei Suan wears white Courrèges polo neck top, white mini skirt, white Courrèges bag, red Courrèges heels, outsid...

PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 04: Bei Suan wears white Courrèges polo neck top, white mini skirt, white Courrèges bag, red Courrèges heels, outside Courrèges, during Day Three of Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Fall/Winter 2026/2027 on March 04, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images)

On TikTok, Taylor Migliazzo Simon popularized the ‘Unexpected Red Theory’ in 2024, proving that the primary color can surprisingly make even the most chaotic spaces look cohesive. Of course, the concept of adding a pop of red here and there is nothing new. But years later, it continues to feel more prevalent than ever as the street style set rely on the splashy shade to elevate any and every outfit.

The attendees at Paris Fashion Week provide photographic proof that the theory works IRL. Fashionistas are having fun mixing sequin skirts (during the daytime, might I add) with red cardigans. They’re also reviving classic trench coats with red crewnecks peeking out from underneath.

You can join in on the fun, too. Simply incorporate a pop of red into any area of your life. It could be a pillow on your couch or a handbag with an all-black outfit — you name it. The vibrant hue instantly makes everything in its orbit look better.

Of course, we’re here for the fashion. Sartorially speaking, there really are no rules. The theory works with everything. Let’s say you’re wearing your go-to denim shorts paired with a coordinating jean jacket. Pop on a red baseball cap or red sneakers and — voilà — an effortlessly cool look is born. If you’re looking for an easy entry point, shoes are the safest route to go, whether it’s a trainer, flat, or a kitten heel.

Have fun planning and shopping your own ‘Unexpected Red Theory’ look with inspiration from Paris Fashion Week below.

The Spark of Fun

PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 03: A guest wears blonde hair, brown tinted aviator sunglasses, a navy and bright blue plaid checkered print pattern cotton knot neck / puffly sleeves blouse shirt, a red ribbed knit wool sweater from Coco Y Maria, a gold metallic sequin midi skirt, a blue dark leather handbag, black and brown snake print pattern leather flip flop sandals, outside Dior, during Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Fall/Winter 2026/2027, on March 03, 2026 in Paris, France (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)

As we shift from winter to spring, tying a cardigan around your waist is not only a chic look that’s fun to look at. It’s also a functional one that will keep you prepared for unpredictable weather. Bonus points: This spring is all about the party skirt. There’s no need to wait until sunset to whip out those sequins, feathers, and fringe.

The Timeless Touch

PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 03: A person is seen wearing black sunglasses, a red v-neck sweater, a taupe trench coat, black trousers, and black pointed-toe heeled boots, while carrying a black patent leather handbag during Day Two of Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Fall/Winter 2026/2027 on March 03, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by 305pics/Getty Images)

You can never go wrong with a strong arsenal of classics in your wardrobe. Be sure to add a tomato red sweater to your collection for an easy way to breathe new life into those staples.

The Mighty Minis

PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 04: Bei Suan wears white Courrèges polo neck top, white mini skirt, white Courrèges bag, red Courrèges heels, outside Courrèges, during Day Three of Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Fall/Winter 2026/2027 on March 04, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images)

Bring a red shoe into the fold of an all-white look to turn minimalist staples into a maximized photo-ready moment. Opt for a kitten heel for a bit of added height without the aching pain.

The Denim Darling

PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 03: A guest wears blue denim jacket with a hood, matching blue wide shorts, red cap, black mini bag, sunglasses, light pink and purple stripped tie tied over her hips and red high heel boots during Day Two of Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Fall/Winter 2026/2027 on March 03, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images)

Double up on denim and the red accents for street style-level fun. If you’re over boot season, swap them for an equally cool pair of red sneakers.

The Sport Star

PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 03: A guest wears short dark brown bob haircut, black and red aviator sunglasses, a red orange nylon hooded pullover jacket with white piping and white printed text, a blue denim high neck shirt, a dark yellow ribbed knit turtleneck sweater, charcoal gray tailored suit trousers / pants, a brown suede shoulder bag, blue and black fabric sneakers shoes from Nike, outside Marie Adam-Leenaerdt, during Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Fall/Winter 2026/2027, on March 03, 2026 in Paris, France (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)

Speaking of sneakers, go full on sports mode by working a track jacket in with wardrobe essentials. It’s the fastest way to add a sense of cool-girl ease to a timeless look.

The Lucky Layers

PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 03: Coco Schiffer wears black sunglasses, a black knit sweater, a red knit turtleneck top, gold rings, a beige woven flared short skirt with long train, a white leather handbag, white leather loafers pumps heels shoes, outside Marie Adam-Leenaerdt, during Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Fall/Winter 2026/2027, on March 03, 2026 in Paris, France (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)

Without the red turtleneck, this outfit is cute. But with the bright contrasting hue it goes from being a nice look to a subtly chic statement maker that makes heads turn.

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On a wintry February day, the scene inside Thrive Hair Collective in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood was heated by more than blow dryer...

On a wintry February day, the scene inside Thrive Hair Collective in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood was heated by more than blow dryers and hot tools styling tousled curls and  trendy layered blowouts. As the salon transformed into a self-care haven for Latina survivors of intimate partner violence, the warmth of smiles, vulnerable conversations, and new ‘dos allowed women to safely and gently unwind and enjoy some self-pampering. 

“La salud del pueblo comienza con las mujeres,” Luis Burgos, the founding director of the nonprofit behind the day’s services, Don’t Forget About Me (DFAM), tells Refinery29 Somos. 

The phrase, “the health of the people begins with women,” has become a sort of proverb for DFAM, which he co-founded in 2017 after the Category 4 Hurricane María devastated his homeland of Puerto Rico. After the storm, domestic violence incidents doubled on the archipelago, which isn’t uncommon amid emergencies. Studies have found that disasters — whether natural, public health, or economic — amplify many of the conditions that fuel abuse. Amid disasters, stress levels increase, isolation grows, access to support services may be reduced, and economic dependency often intensifies, which can create an environment where abusive behaviors are more likely to escalate.

Understanding these connections, Burgos’ goal with DFAM has always been to create spaces for wellness and self-care for survivors of traumatic events, including natural disasters, domestic violence, homelessness, and neighborhood violence. 

Growing up with, as he describes, a “fly” mother, he witnessed the care and confidence that comes from self-adornment, even amid the most humble and difficult times. Together, he and his team of hair professionals and massage therapists work to recreate those moments and experiences for women on and off the archipelago. 

“Having an army of volunteers creating that safe space, they can really see their work and reflect to themselves,” he tells Somos. “It’s not just a regular haircut. It’s a human connection. It’s a way of saying, ‘Wow, look what I can do to change someone’s perspective in a positive way.’”

“La salud del pueblo comienza con las mujeres.”

Luis Burgos

In Chicago, where a surge of federal immigration agents has created a climate of fear amid President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, immigrant communities are experiencing a crisis of their own. When families go into hiding to avoid enforcement, many of the same dynamics seen during natural disasters can appear. Parents stop going to work. Children miss school. And daily routines collapse under the weight of deportation fears. The resulting stress and isolation can heighten tensions at home; and, in some cases, it can increase the risk of intimate partner violence. Meanwhile, survivors may avoid shelters, hospitals, or police, worried that seeking help could expose them or a loved one to immigration authorities.

In The Windy City, DFAM teamed up with Create to Heal — Sundial Media & Technology Group’s (Refinery29 Somos’ parent company) community-centered wellness initiative dedicated to supporting the healing, creativity, and well-being of Black women and their communities — as well as Un Nuevo Desperta. The latter is an organization supporting survivors of domestic violence through emergency shelter, therapy, financial assistance, and advocacy, like helping women create safety plans, request orders of protection and child support, access medical and social services, and adjust their immigration status. The nonprofit works primarily in Chicago’s Little Village and Cicero neighborhoods, which have been among the most-targeted by immigration enforcement.

Anna Gonzalez says the group has been central to teaching her the importance of self-care. A survivor and mother of three, Gonzalez says she was depressed for many years, and has found moments like the one DFAM has created empowering. While hair and beauty may seem frivolous to some, she adds that starting her own beauty routine — putting on lipstick or eye makeup — has helped her rebuild her sense of dignity and self-worth.

“In the past, I didn’t have any value. Now I think I am a valuable person,” she says. With confidence and support, she has returned to a community college to earn her GED, hoping to inspire her children to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. “Sometimes, we follow the path of our parents,” she says. “I want to be a good example for my girls. You don’t let nobody make you feel little.” Gonzalez encourages younger women not to ignore red flags, to take control of their lives, and seek trusted resources.

Another DFAM client, who asked to remain anonymous due to safety concerns, was moved to tears when she saw her new haircut and style reflected back to her in the mirror. This feeling — of joy, empowerment, and validation — is the power of community, she says. “Being a Latina, I never thought that going to groups like Un Nuevo Despertar could help us [with] all this knowledge that they give us. With this haircut, it’s amazing that they could pamper us and we could look beautiful,” she says, encouraging others to advocate for themselves and lean on community. 

Cecilia Mendoza, a vivacious and spiritual woman, called the hair treatment and body massage “gifts.” Though she says life has been “hard,” moments like this, and experiencing them with other survivors who have become her refuge, have enriched her life. Her message: “Love yourself. Love God. Love everybody, and love whatever you do.”   

It’s that ethos — doing heart-driven work — that brought many of the stylists to Thrive Hair Collective that day. A licensed nail tech and DFAM volunteer, Ariana Guzman says people often equate self-care with extravagance, but to her, the goal is actually feeling like the best version of yourself — and beauty services can help boost confidence. Before styling her clients, Guzman lets each woman set the tone of her experience. To her, beautifying survivors means everything. Every brush stroke affirms a safe, empowering space. “It’s deeper than hair,” she tells Somos. “It’s about people’s confidence, their sense of self, their whole life.”

Quintella Rodgers, who uses her gifts to create a sacred, intentional experience for clients, feels similarly. Before becoming a full-time hairstylist, Rodgers worked at a nonprofit for 17 years, where she oversaw after-school programming in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood. Though she is now the proud owner of Thee Hair Bar, she still views her work as tied to the community, pouring into women by elevating their tresses. 

As a South Side native, Rodgers sees parallels between these marginalized communities and her own experiences witnessing domestic violence. She says her work goes beyond making women look beautiful; it’s about serving as a pillar in her community while helping them build confidence. “No matter what’s happening at home, coming to the salon helps boost confidence,” she says. “I feel like if you look good, it can help with other parts of your life, too.”

To elevate the salon experience even more, DFAM partnered with Myavana, a Black‑owned beauty technology company that uses AI to personalize hair‑care guidance and product recommendations. It lets users take a photo of their hair to analyze texture, type, condition, and other factors to provide a customized care plan and product suggestions that go beyond traditional one‑size‑fits‑all systems. 

As all of the women were able to see digitized close-ups of their scalp to customize a regimen just for them, Candace Mitchell Harris, the founder of Myavana, was moved by the smiles on their faces. Through technology and nonprofit work, the Black beauty entrepreneur says she and Burgos aligned on elevating the salon experience with a perspective on healing. 

“A lot of people are going through trauma right now. Not just in the way we think about trauma — people who’ve been through domestic violence, former incarceration, [there’s] life trauma, high stress, and layoffs,” she tells Somos. “We knew that we wanted to have an intentional social impact mission, and this is what it would be.” 

As for Burgos, he understands that for Black and Latina women, hair carries weight beyond style. It’s tied to identity, culture, and self-expression. He believes a haircut can be transformative, especially for women whose previous partners tried to control their appearance or dictate how they wore their hair. After shedding that layer of trauma, many enter a new chapter of confidence and self-determination.

And that sense of empowerment is central to his work with DFAM. Shaped by his mother’s matriarchal values, which gave him clarity and inspired his commitment to restoring dignity to survivors, it’s what drives him. “Whenever I do an event, I see my mom. I hear her in the back of my mind saying, ‘Oh, my God, this is so great. This is so wonderful.’ That’s my big inspiration,” he says.

This story was made possible through Create to Heal, Sundial Media & Technology Group’s community-centered wellness initiative dedicated to supporting the healing, creativity, and well-being of Black women and their communities. Through immersive experiences, restorative spaces, and service-led programming, the platform brings together culture, care, and connection to create environments where women can pause, restore, and reclaim their power. From salon-based sanctuaries to storytelling and mentorship spaces, Create to Heal transforms trusted community settings into pathways for collective healing and empowerment.

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At least once a week — let’s face it, at least once every  day  — the writers and editors across Refinery29 discuss the latest and greatest ...

At least once a week — let’s face it, at least once every day — the writers and editors across Refinery29 discuss the latest and greatest products in our lives, from some cool new water bottle that’s been absolutely saving our lives to a state-of-the-art sleep product that’s changed our eight hours for the better. And gatekeeping isn’t in our vocabulary, so we’re here to share the wealth and highlight our favorite products, just for you, each month.

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

Susan Devaney, Lifestyle Director

Avid R29 readers will know a few editors on the team joined the Our Place gang many moons ago, me included. So to add to my ever-growing collection, I’ve been trying out both the large and small titanium pans for a few months now. Like other pans from the brand, it’s coating-free and made without PFAS — except, unlike the colourful pans, this one can be popped in the dishwasher. Anything that saves time after a long day has my approval.  

Our Place Our Place Titanium Pro Always Pan® Duo, $, available at Our Place
I’m all about finding the wee joys right now. Is there anyone else out there who genuinely enjoys the simple process of making great coffee in the morning? I hear you and I see you, too. This is why I couldn’t be happier about the DeLonghi Rivelia machine entering my life in 2026. (Note: our previous DeLonghi coffee machine lasted many years, so it was a brand I was happy to return to as an investment). It sits neatly on my kitchen counter (I opted for the black colourway) and it’s easy to keep clean, too. Another thing that’s easy about it is operating it day-to-day. It’s not overly complex like other machines and it has a Bean Switch System which means you can simply switch up bean varieties from one coffee to the next, all in the same morning.  

DeLonghi Rivelia Automatic Espresso Machine, $, available at DeLonghi

Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director

Sticking one of these grippy sheets to my phone has been a gamechanger for photos and videos. Whether I’m catching up with friends and family or creating content for my social channels, it’s so handy. It sticks to windows — and most flat surfaces — so you can film and take pics while out and about. 

Klearlook Sticky Phone Grip, $, available at Amazon
I came across a cute idea on Pinterest where people fill martini glasses to the brim with perfume samples and place them in their downstairs bathrooms so guests can top up during parties. As a beauty director, I have literally hundreds of unused fragrance samples that are gathering dust. While the shape is a little unusual, I love it and I'm using one of these martini glasses to house them. 

Waterford Waterford 'Elegance' Fine Crystal Martini Glasses, $, available at Nordtrom
I know a kettle isn’t the most exciting thing, but as a tea-drinking Brit, it’s an absolute necessity. My partner and I are moving soon, and I plan to donate all our kitchenware and replace it with nicer pieces. We adored the checkerboard print on this one — a subtle nod to our emo days, but still chic! 

MacKenzie-Childs Mocha Check Electric Kettle, $, available at Nordstom

Lisa Dionisio, Newsletter Director

In case you didn’t know, it’s really, really cold in New York right now. The perfect way to combat that? Staying cozy under a heated blanket. This one is perfect and gets nice and warm quickly. It’s super soft with adjustable heat controls and has automatic shut-off feature in case you fall asleep or forget to turn it off. Now someone just needs to invent this in a coat form so I can leave my apartment. 

Sunbeam Luxe Microplush Heated Blanket, $, available at Amazon
I can easily spend all my money at MUJI with all the useful home items and travel products they have. My latest purchase is this nylon zippered pouch I’ve been using to organize all the random items that end up at the bottom of my purse—hair ties, contact lenses, lip glosses, eye drops, feminine hygiene neccessities, and more. It’s compact, easy to open and close, and simple to transfer from bag to bag. I also love its clean design with no logos or branding. I bought it in light pink but I want to go back and grab the gray and black versions too. 

Muji Wrinkled Nylon Wide-Opening Pouch, $, available at Muji

Lia Tabackman, Senior Social Media Manager

Anyone who’s spent this winter on the East Coast knows it’s been particularly brutal—the kind of cold that seeps into your bones and makes your apartment feel permanently drafty. That’s why I’ve become emotionally dependent on this bathrobe: It’s incredibly soft, noticeably weightier than any other robe I’ve owned, and has a hood that keeps me cocooned and warm from the second I step out of the shower. On nights when the heater in my NYC apartment can’t quite keep up with the cold, I’ve been known to stay wrapped up in it for hours — swaddling myself like a baby as I wait for warmer days. 

Ugg Bathrobe, $, available at Ugg
Between Awards Season and NYFW, winter is one of the busiest times of year for R29 staffers. That’s why keeping my pantry stocked with quick, satisfying meals and snacks is truly non-negotiable — especially on days when I don’t have the time or energy to cook something more elaborate. As a newly minted 30-year-old, I’ve also had to accept that when it comes to quick meals, my body needs more sustenance and nutrients than the boxed mac and cheese I grew up on can offer. Goodles, for this reason, feel heaven sent: a quick-to-make pasta that tastes like childhood nostalgia but delivers significantly more vegetable fiber and protein than the Easy Mac of my youth.  As an added bonus, the company donates at least 1% of all products sold to organizations fighting food insecurity — all the more reason to stock up.

Goodles Goodles Variety Pack, $, available at Goodles
My background in journalism has trained me to be skeptical of buzzy, new-age wellness treatments — red light therapy included. But after using the MitoADAPT 4.0 red light panel for the past month, I can honestly say I’m a believer. What stood out to me about the MitoADAPT is its 11 different settings, each designed with specific combinations of red light and near-infrared light. It was the near-infrared component that really caught my attention, since it’s been studied for its potential to help reduce inflammation and swelling. 
As a social media manager, being chronically online is — for better and for worse — part of the job. I spend hours every day scrolling, typing, editing, and posting, and over time, that repetitive motion has taken a toll on my hands, wrists, and fingers—with pain and stiffness tending to flare up during especially busy weeks.
While your results may vary, I’ve genuinely noticed a difference in my pain levels since incorporating red light therapy into my routine. My hands feel less inflamed, and the persistent ache I feel has been reduced since I started using red light regularly. It’s rare that something this hyped on the internet actually delivers — but in this case, my results have left me happily surprised, and excited about the future of red light as another tool for people like me who deal with nagging pain and inflammation.




MitoADAPT MitoADAPT 4.0 Red Light Panel, $, available at MitoADAPT

Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer

After my Instagram flooded with people trying and hyping up vibration plates, I asked for one for Christmas. And this popular Amazon find quickly became one of my favorite gifts to date because of how much use I’ve gotten out of it already. Without fail, every morning and every night, I take between five and fifteen minutes to use the machine and help ground me. I love doing lymphatic draining techniques, stretching, squatting, doing push ups, or just sitting on the machine at various intensities depending on if I want to feel more relaxed or more energized. Sticking to new routines can be hard for me, but I’ve convinced myself that taking a few minutes to be in touch with my body is worth way more than mindlessly scrolling on my phone in the moments after waking up or going to sleep. 

EILISON Vibration Plate Exercise Machine, $, available at Amazon

Raquel Reichard, Deputy Director of Somos

I spend a lot of time in airports, dashing to New York City for a media event or chasing a story out of the country. So when Capital One invited me to experience its new Capital One Landing at LaGuardia Airport, I was curious whether it would actually change the way I move through a terminal.  
 
The Landing at LGA is the second collaboration between Capital One and chef José Andrés (the first debuted at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport), introducing Andrés’ signature Spanish small plates to the airport lounge experience. Located in Terminal B, the LaGuardia space spans approximately 12,500 square feet and feels more like a luxe restaurant than a traditional airport lounge. There's ceramic tiles, colorful murals, and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the runway and the Manhattan skyline. But as with any José Andrés concept, the real star is the menu. As a vegan traveler, I devoured traditional pan con tomate, a garbanzo bean salad, zanahorias asadas, and more. Around me, other guests raved about the carne asada, gambas al ajillo, and, of course, the churros con chocolate.  
  
For frequent flyers, the Capital One Landing at LaGuardia makes the often-dreadful in-between time fun and delicious. Travelers with time to spare can enjoy full-table service, ordering via QR code from a menu of tapas, larger plates, wine, beer, and cocktails. But if you’re between tight connections, there’s a tapas bar stocked with ready-made bites and even roving carts circulating with bar snacks, caviar cones, and desserts. Access to Capital One Landing locations, and other Capital One Lounges, comes through the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card or Capital One Venture X Business card, both of which include complimentary entry for the primary cardholder and $45 for each additional guest. But non-cardholders can purchase entry for $90 per visit.  
As I enter my Mami Stewart era, I’ve been really into making my own sauces to pour over salads, pastas, and plant-based meats or simply to use as a dip for veggies and tostones. But because many of these fresh ingredients are highly perishable and I live alone, I only ever need small batches. Pulling out my full-size blender for a tiny ramekin of dressing just isn’t practical. So I’ve switched to the Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender, and it’s been a game changer. With five variable speeds and a five-foot cord, it’s compact, powerful, and perfect for whipping up just enough without the extra cleanup. Admittedly, I love it so much that I’ve started using it straight in the pot for larger soups and sauces, too. 

Crate and Barrel Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender, $, available at Crate and Barrel
We may be having (another!) historic winter freeze in Orlando right now, but I’m more than ready for spring. To set the mood, I’ve been using the Jo Malone London Lilac Lavender & Lovage Diffuser in my bathroom. With notes of soft lilac and airy lavender, its gentle aroma transports me to the fresh, dewy days ahead. But beyond the scent, the elegant porcelain vessel and reed diffusers add a serene, spa-like touch to my space. Still, the best part is that the fragrance (and the feeling it creates) is designed to last for four to five months. 

Jo Malone Lilac Lavender & Lovage Diffuser, $, available at Jo Malone

Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer

My husband and I both love skiing, and we recently picked up this cute poster print featuring scratch-off icons of 50 top resorts in the country. (One thing about us is that we love home décor with an interactive element.) We’ve scratched off a couple already (he has a home court advantage of growing up within an hour of most Vermont mountains) and love having a living, breathing visual representation of our favorite shared hobby. Plus, it’s already given us loads of inspo for our next wintery trip... 

McSenderson Ski Resorts Map, $, available at McSenderson
I recently upgraded my iPad, and decided to upgrade my case along with it. This keyboard flip case is so sleek and chic, and I love how much lighter it is than a full-sized laptop for my work-from-cafe days. It beats any cheap Amazon dupe out of the water with its backlit keys, sturdy construction, and large, multi-touch trackpad. And if you don’t need the keyboard, it snaps right off, allowing you to take notes (or use a digital coloring book, as I’m known to do).  

Logitech Combo Touch for iPad, $, available at Logitech

Brooke DeVard Ozaydinli, Chief Content Officer


 
I’ve started adding some Pedestrian Project Shoe Pillows to nearly every pair of heels I own, and the difference is immediate. Shoes that used to feel unbearable after a few hours suddenly become manageable for a full day out. The foam bounce technology gives just enough cushion at the ball of the foot to take the pressure off without changing the fit of the shoe. It’s one of those small upgrades that completely changes how wearable your favorite heels are. 

Pedestrian Project Shoe Pillows, $, available at Pedestrian Project
As a content creator, using the iPhone’s front camera is a huge upgrade in quality but filming without seeing yourself can be tricky. This small magnetic monitor screen solves that instantly. It lets me frame shots properly while still capturing with the better camera, and the result is noticeably sharper, more polished video. It’s become one of those tools that quietly makes content creation much easier. 

Neewer Selfie Monitor Screen For iPhone, $, available at NEEWER

Megan Boal, Operations Manager

 
I bought this little squeeze cube on a whim and now it lives permanently on my desk. It's the perfect thing to hold during a stressful work meeting. Soft when you press it slowly, satisfyingly firm when you go for it. I catch myself reaching for it almost unconsciously whenever I'm on long calls, and I genuinely feel calmer afterward.  

Schylling Schylling NeeDoh Nice Cube, $, available at Amazon

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