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“Barn girl blonde,” “liquid noir,” and “art school copper” are just a few of the shades colorists have conjured up ahead of the sunnier season. Better still, there’s an option for every taste and budget, whether you’re booking in with a professional or opting for the ease of an at-home gloss.
Scroll on for more spring hair color trends — from London to LA colorists — and exactly how to ask for them.
Cass Kaeding, celebrity and editorial hairstylist and Revlon ColorSilk ambassador, predicts that dimensional cocoa brunette will reign supreme this spring, thanks to its nuanced finish, which truly comes alive in the sun. “This is a rich, multi-tonal brown hair color that mimics the depth and softness of chocolate tones,” says Kaeding, combining a medium-to-deep brunette base with subtle ribbons of lighter-to-medium browns, including mocha, caramel, and soft chestnut.
“It’s not a flat brunette,” Kaeding adds. “Rather, it’s layered with several different shades to create movement, shine, and a natural-looking blend.” Colorist My Huynh’s take on brunette is beautiful, as is this more muted shade by Haven Hair. “These brunette tones will vary per skin tone, so make sure to consult your colorist on the best blend for your complexion,” adds Kaeding.
Charley Henery, international artistic director at TONI&GUY, reports a shift away from high‑maintenance highlights in favor of more “effortless and lived-in” color, like this shade by Haven Hair. “That’s where barn girl blonde comes in,” she says, adding, “It’s a muted, sandy tone with soft root depth and beautifully blended lengths — the kind of blonde that looks polished, but in an understated way.” TONI&GUY’s Luxe Lights service will get you there, says Henery. “It’s all about mixing those easy, natural tones with a few brighter pieces for dimension, so you get that glow without it ever feeling overdone.”
In their seasonal trends presentation, Nicola Clarke, creative color director of Nicola Clarke Salon, and Zoë Irwin, creative director at John Frieda Salon, predicted that liquid noir — the darkest brunette — will transcend winter and have a serious moment in spring and summer. It’s a move on from their previous trend prediction, liquid brunette, and one that places renewed emphasis on hair condition and hydration. Think layers of bonding and moisture, as both are key to achieving that high-shine finish. Irwin pinpointed this picture of Chase Infiniti, posted to Instagram by makeup artist Amber D, as inspiration.
Kylee Akina, Danger Jones global ambassador, champions champagne honey blonde — a sparkling shade created with darker honey pieces that enhance shine, like bubbles in a glass. This shade by hairstylist Devyn Pennell is stunning.
Kaeding describes beige baby blonde as a neutral, balanced blonde shade that occupies a cozy space between warm or gold tones and cool or ashy elements. “Think of it as a soft, creamy blonde with slightly sandy or taupe undertones,” says Kaeding, adding, “Nothing too yellow gold but also not overly icy.” This color by Marco Gilento at Encapture Hair Spa is perfect.
To maintain a balanced blonde like this, Kaeding drives home the importance of DIY color care. “For keeping hair healthy outside of the salon, I recommend using the Revlon ColorSilk After Color Shampoo and Conditioner.”
Siobhan Haug, colorist and co‑owner at Haug London Haus, says this is one of the most luxurious shades for those with darker hair. “Outside of natural light, the hair looks almost black, and it reveals its rich purple tones only when it catches the light,” says Haug, like this dreamy shade by hairstylist Nicole Zubair. It’s essentially a mix of cool violet tones with a dash of red, Haug adds — a subtle, dual‑tone burgundy that looks expensive thanks to its high‑shine finish.
Kaeding calls this trend “the REDs” owing to the many red tones, each of which can be tailored to different skin tones. We’re a little obsessed with this copper brown hue by Daniel Mora Ayala. “The REDs range from cherry cola and fiery crimson to soft golden copper and rich auburn,” says Kaeding, who recommends booking a consultation with a colorist to see which shade of red works best for you. But there’s a catch: “Red color can fade very quickly,” says Kaeding, “so it can require more visits to the salon to maintain your desired shade.” For those looking for an at-home color solution, Kaeding rates Revlon ColorSilk Bond Repair Hair Dye, especially in the shade Radiant Raspberry, as a top-up between salon visits.
Irwin is convinced we’ve moved beyond softer coppers like cowgirl copper. Now, they’re “raw and characterful” — and particularly well suited to natural textures. To Irwin, the effect is reminiscent of henna in the hair. “It’s a solar-y, ginger that really makes your eyes pop. Think of a creative student, a gallery girl — it’s the revival of the bohemian and it feels a bit more rebellious than cowgirl copper.” It’s easiest for blondes: “With a gloss, you don’t have to commit,” said Clarke. We love this bold shade on model Gemma Seymour.
Emily Chen, a Danger Jones global ambassador, hints that cowgirl copper is giving way to Cali copper — a brighter, punchier, all‑over copper shade that looks incredible in the sun. We’re just a little bit obsessed with this copper brown by Celeste Robles.
To boost shine, Chen favors Danger Jones Epilogue Permanent Color paired with a gloss toner developer.
“With the “clean” girl aesthetic, everything has been super minimal for a long time,” said Irwin, but these paler, more porcelain shades have what she describes as a “cooler antique quality.” Rooted in a broader cultural fascination with gothic storytelling, the effect is more ethereal than icy, Irwin adds, thanks to a clearer — rather than gray — base with a subtly powdery finish. “It’s a big commitment,” said Clarke, “but once you’ve got there, the maintenance is quite low.” This shade on model Biba is perfect.
Christel Barron-Hough, founder of STIL Salon in London’s Chelsea, drew inspiration from the Scandi street style set at Copenhagen Fashion Week for this trend, which spotlights grown‑out roots — great news for the low‑maintenance among us. The key? “Allowing the natural cycle of hair growth to take center stage,” says Barron-Hough. To perfect the look, she uses a hand‑painting technique to create a blurred transition from the root through the mid‑lengths and ends, as though the color has “naturally diffused” over time. This color by blonde and extensions specialist Darcee is spot on.
Persimmons might be out of season, but colorists are drawing inspiration from their sunny orange hue — like this color posted to Instagram by hairstylist Ryenne Snow. “This shade is one of pure joy and energy,” says Haug. “It’s confidence-affirming, bright, juicy, and undeniably optimistic,” but it doesn’t have to be full on. Haug says strands of persimmon can be woven between tones of gold and apricot for a more auburn result, or used to soften vibrant reds. The downside? It’s demanding. Haug recommends investing in a good, sulfate‑free shampoo (try Kérastase Discipline Sulfate‑Free Smoothing Shampoo) and a pigmented conditioner. R29 rates dpHUE Gloss+.
Barron-Hough says that midway blonde sits comfortably between warm and cool tones, creating a perfectly balanced blonde shade that suits all skin tones. She first tones the natural hair color with a gloss, then uses a precise hand‑painting technique to take certain sections warmer and others cooler for a nuanced, satisfying mix. This shade posted to Instagram by creative stylist Airi is so good.
“I’m obsessed with Veneda Carter’s hair color,” said Irwin, who describes molten bronze as a sunlit copper meets sepia — essentially a flatter, more wearable bronze hue. Actor Haley Bennett also serves as key inspiration, with Clarke frequently working on her hair. “For the BAFTA’s, she brought in a picture of Linda Evangelista on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar, and the color had ribbony highlights with tawny, molten bronze pieces.” We also adore this color by curly specialist Jessenia Robayo.
Clarke and Irwin have been singing uptown blonde’s praises for a while now, but thanks to Love Story — and the multiple images of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy doing the rounds — it’s going nowhere. “This blonde feels so New York,” said Clarke. It’s a creamy, expensive‑looking blonde that goes right up to the root. Of course, that means more maintenance in the form of regular root touch-ups, but when it looks as good as this hue by hairstylist Sara Bulger, it becomes a commitment you’re happy to keep.
Bare bloom has been a key shade for fall and winter, but it’s carrying through into spring and summer, says Irwin. Rooted in natural tones, it’s the kind of hair color that looks like you were born with it, with a subtle wash of pink throughout that leaves hair looking healthy and softly glowing, like this color posted to Instagram by Miho Mai.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
R29 babes, the Pink Full Moon in Libra arrives the same day as April Fool’s Day, on April 1st. This Full Moon may seem and feel like a prank on the trickster’s day, because we are being pushed and pulled in different directions, making our emotions complex and contradictory when it comes to matters of the heart — but fear not. The Full Moon in Libra represents a moment to find harmony, peace, and abundance in our lives.
Why is it called the Pink Moon, you ask? Just look outside! The phlox, a mossy-pink wildflower, is budding, marking a marvelous entrance into spring. The bright flowers spark a sense of renewal, beauty, and joy.
While the Full Moon in Libra is typically a prime time to re-center, recalibrate, and rebalance our partnerships and sense of self, Jupiter in Cancer’s fraught aspect to the lunation will create a sense of emotional exaggeration or discord. Keep in mind that this is not necessarily a bad thing to experience; it just means that Jupiter is going to expand our romantic inclinations or our frustrations. Our idealism will be intense, making it difficult for us to get down from our high horse. Not only are we taking a stand, but we aren’t compromising in matters. It’s our way or no way!
Two days before the Pink Moon, on March 30th, Venus journeys in Taurus. The reason this planetary shift is significant is that it reaffirms that we aren’t budging from our perspectives. The Bullish sign doesn’t sway easily once it makes up its mind. With Neptune in Aries sharing a minor connection to Venus in Taurus, the vibe will be dreamy. Translation: We’ll be caught up in how we want things to be, instead of how they are. Like Jupiter’s aspect to the Full Moon, this energy can go either way. If we wish to project positivity, then romanticism will prevail. On the flip side, negativity has the potential to pierce illusions and become aware of flaws. Basically, it’s a choose-our-own-emotional-adventure lunation (so to speak).
We are still working through Mercury retrograde in Pisces until April 9th, which began at the end of the retrograde on March 20th. Issues from the past will be brought up because we feel as though others aren’t evolving or paying attention to our needs or concerns. Having an open heart and mind encourages us to work through these problems. Understanding that it might take time to remedy previous upsets is vital. On the off chance that we can move forward swiftly and with ease, know that the Full Moon is a wake-up call to appreciate those we care about and not take them for granted. The same applies to how they treat us, too.
As long as we listen and are accountable, overcoming the obstacles we face should be doable. But on the off chance that we want to dig our heels in the ground and tilt the scales to our side, then arguments will ensue. Even though it’ll be difficult not to react, we must find our calm and be chill. There is an opportunity here to switch gears and to create an equilibrium if we can take ownership and apologize. Saving the drama for another day might be hard, so take a beat in deciding what to do. We can say how we feel and give people a hot minute to wrap their heads around it all. This ensures a rational response and a conversation geared towards resolution.
Welcome toMoney Diarieswhere we are tackling the ever-present taboo that is money. We’re asking real people how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we’re tracking every last dollar.
This week: a physician assistant working in healthcare who makes $135,000 per year and spends $13,666.86 while at home recovering from surgery.
This Money Diary was written at the end of 2025.
If you’d like to submit your own Money Diary, you can do so via our online form. We pay $150 for each published diary. Apologies but we’re not able to reply to every email.Please note: We are legally unable to publish any diaries that have been written with the use of AI.
Editor’s note: After a short hiatus, we’re back once a week! Thank you for your patience. We’ll be honoring Money Diary submissions we received during our break by publishing them in the coming weeks. There’s more to come soon — stay tuned.
Occupation: Physician Assistant Industry: Healthcare Age: 35 Location: Midwest Salary: $135,000 Joint Income/Financial Setup: $265,000 base (mine and husband’s combined salaries), plus up to 15% yearly bonus for my husband. I also “moonlight” or pick up extra shifts. This year, I made an extra $20K. So I expect us to make $290,000 total this year. My husband and I have had joint accounts since we married in 2014. He bought our house in 2013, as I was in school and he was working. My husband spends very little when we are apart, typically just on gas and the occasional meal out. Assets Savings: $100,000. This is high because we have had some big purchases this year: a backyard renovation and a new car for me (we will start moving money to brokerage in the next month). My 403(b): $265,000 My husband’s 401(k): $202,000 I-bonds: $800 529 plans: $10,000 Roth IRA: $34,000 (x2) Brokerage: $45,000 House value (estimation): $400,000 (fully paid off) Car (x2): Estimated at $15,000 and $30,000 (both fully paid off) Debt: $0 Paycheck Amount (2x per month): $3000 Pronouns: She/her
Monthly Expenses Housing Costs: $0 Loan Payments: $0 Utilities: gas/water $150; electric $85 and internet $40. Phone: $143, which includes Netflix and AppleTV. Gym: $20 for my husband, $0 for me as I have a gym at work. I do occasionally buy passes to yoga and Pilates, and spend $300 over the course of the year. Disney+ and Hulu bundle: $2.99 Cleaning service: $160 (2x per month). This is a new expense as I’m injured, and just underwent surgery to repair an ACL tear. PreK for daughter: $1050 a month Before/after school care for son: $90 per week Groceries: per last year’s budget, we typically spend $1000 a month Dining out: per review of past year, typically $800 a month
Yearly Expenses
Property taxes: $6,000 (we pay twice a year in split payments) House insurance: $2,500 (we pay yearly) Car insurance: $1,500 (we pay yearly) Vehicle taxes/registrations: $2,750 (I bought a new car this year).
Was there an expectation for you to attend higher education? Did you participate in any form of higher education? If yes, how did you pay for it?
Yes. My mother had gone to college on a full ride, and there was an expectation I would as well. Luckily, I’m a good standardized test taker, and my ACT score qualified me for full tuition. My parents had started a 529 plan for me at birth, and luckily paid for my housing expenses. I originally had planned to become a pharmacist, but I shadowed a primary care PA, loved it, and switched gears to attend PA school mid-way through undergrad. My GPA during PA school qualified me for a full tuition scholarship, and my husband paid for our living expenses during school. I actually got married and we bought our house during my last year of school (I do NOT recommend; very stressful).
Growing up, what kind of conversations did you have about money? Did your parent(s) educate you about finances?
Growing up we didn’t have a lot of money. My dad didn’t have a college degree, and worked fixing phones at companies. My mom was a stay-at-home mom. I was aware that we didn’t have money for extras like travel and eating out. However, we always had a roof over our heads and food on the table. I received an allowance when I was younger, but was terrible with money and blew through any money I had almost immediately.
What was your first job and why did you get it?
I started working at a grocery store when I was 15. I needed to pay for gas and car insurance for my car. I was also an impulse spender and wanted to buy myself clothes and other treats.
Did you worry about money growing up?
Sometimes, yes. My parents were transparent with finances, and I knew we were on a budget. My parents made it seem like I wouldn’t be able to go to college if I didn’t have scholarships, so I applied to many. I didn’t realize loans were an option at the time, which was terrifying, but now I’m so glad I don’t have any. My most recent PA students have had 150K+ in student loans, and it breaks my heart because the loan repayment is such a burden.
Do you worry about money now?
Sometimes, yes. We are in a great financial situation, but ever since I became injured, I now know things can change in the blink of an eye. During this break from work, I have realized I would love to work part-time or work PRN, but I’m not sure we could swing things on one paycheck.
At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and do you have a financial safety net?
When I started PA school. Technically, my parents and in-laws could both be our financial safety net, but I dread ever having to ask them for money. It’s hard enough for me to ask them to watch the kids.
Do you or have you ever received passive or inherited income? If yes, please explain.
My parents paid for my living expenses until PA school, and I benefited from the 529 they had for me. They also gave us $10,000 for our wedding and honeymoon, mostly because I wanted to elope, and they wanted us to marry in a church. My husband’s parents gifted us $10,000 towards a down payment for our house. We each had our first cars paid for, a $3,000 salvage title for me, and a brand new sporty two-door car for my husband. We have since bought new cars ourselves.
Day One: Friday
6:30 a.m. — I was woken up by my husband, B., who woke up at 5:00 a.m. to run seven miles. I had originally planned to run a marathon, but unfortunately, in September, I fell off a skateboard, breaking my leg in three places and tearing my meniscus and ACL. I had surgery in November, and am at home recovering for seven weeks, as I’m in a full leg brace and have crutches, making it impossible to do my job. I have PTO and short-term disability that will cover the recovery in full, and I transferred the marathon registration to B. I thought I would be bored at home, but I’m actually enjoying myself; I think I may have been more burnt out at work than I realized. We get the kids ready, eat breakfast, and drink coffee. I do the bare minimum for myself: splash water on my face, brush my teeth, put on sunscreen (Bioré Aqua Rich Watery Essence).
7:30 a.m. — B. takes the kids to school and then heads to work. I do some light house chores, dishes, a load of laundry, and some physical therapy exercises (mostly stretching).
11:30 a.m. — Meet B. for his lunch break, and we go to a local coffee shop. It’s my husband’s favorite one, but I hate that we have to pay for metered parking. $8
1:00 p.m. — Physical therapy for an hour. I’m four weeks post ACL surgery, and I try to convince my physical therapist I can walk without crutches. He tells me I’m his biggest source of stress. I keep the crutches. Co-Pay is usually $30, but same-day ACL surgery cost $56,000. I met my out-of-pocket max of $6,500 for the year. WOO HOO. Therefore, physical therapy is $0 today.
2:30 p.m. — Go to the library to drop off books. I had picked up some books on fancy charcuterie spreads, but decided all of them were too complicated, and so I’m just going to do something simple for book club on Sunday. Drop off a check at the post office for $11,607.60. This is the final payment for our back deck, which we replaced this year with composite. The old one was completely rotten. $11607.60
4:45 p.m. — Get my eyebrows waxed. The girl who does it is expensive, but man, she is the best. Also, this makes me feel slightly more human, since I have largely been lounging at home in pajamas for the past month. (I will learn to dye my eyebrows at home with a kit). $45
5 p.m. — Pick up kids from school.
6:00 p.m. — Home, make dinner, chicken nuggets, and sweet potato fries from Costco. I’m always craving Chick-fil-A; it’s my weakness, but we are trying not to go out to eat as much. When B. and I reviewed our November budget, we went out to eat 22 separate times in the month (OMG!)
7:00 p.m. — I bought a gingerbread house-making kit at Target last year and never used it. The kids and I make gingerbread houses before bed. It does not go well. The houses fall apart.
8:00 p.m. — Watch an episode of Arcane. It’s intense but I like it. Then it’s time for bed by 10. I’m old, lol.
Daily Total: $11660.60
Day Two: Saturday
7:30 a.m. — Wake up, the kids are on screens: one is watching television and the other is playing Pokémon on the Nintendo Switch. I know screen time is frowned upon in the parenting world, but I love being able to sleep in while my children entertain themselves.
8:00 a.m. — My husband heads to our local middle school to sign the kids up for swim lessons. They are weekly hour-long lessons for 10 weeks. ($25 per child, so $50 total). We previously paid $40 for a private lesson per kid, but activities are getting so expensive, we have been looking for cheaper options at the YMCA and local community center. $50
10:00 a.m. — Go to our local art museum, where they offer kids’ art classes. Drop the kids off for 90 minutes, and enjoy a day date of coffees, avocado toast, and an egg sandwich. $30
11:30 a.m. — Pick up the kids from art class, and then head downtown for WinterFest. Our city recently redid its parks downtown, and they are so cute! I don’t need to buy anything — I’ve gone to a few winter markets and am very stocked up on candles. Despite this, I buy a cinnamon and clove candle. It smells so good and I love it. $20
3:00 p.m. — Order groceries through Target app. I get groceries and some servingware like cheese knives. I get self-conscious hosting at our house because when we bought it, we had originally thought of it as a starter house, but having a paid-off house gives us so much financial freedom, like traveling and investing. Also, Target pick up is actually life-changing. $131
4 p.m. — I start making dinner, trader joes teriyaki chicken, rice, and stir-fry vegetables.
6 p.m. — Family movie night. Picked up the movie Wolf Children from the library. I loved Studio Ghibli movies growing up, and I’m glad my kids do too.
8 p.m. — B. goes for a run, I do some stretching before bed.
Daily Total: $231.00
Day Three: Sunday
8:00 a.m. — Wake up, make a ham, leek, and egg breakfast casserole for second breakfast.
9 a.m. — My husband reserves tickets for a local science museum for himself and the kids. They were “free” since we pay $150 a year for a membership.
9:15 a.m. — B. heads to the gym to work out, and I do a homeschooling lesson I found for free with the kids. We are studying mushrooms. We do some worksheets, read a book from the library, and build mushrooms out of Play-Doh.
11:30 a.m. — B. is back, and vacuums the house, and I tidy to prepare for book club. I make food and set up a simple and largely premade charcuterie board. I set out my favorite type of wine, pét nat, for us to drink.
1 p.m. — B. heads out with the kids to the science museum.
2:00 p.m. — Book Club at my house. We are doing a favorite things gift exchange, and I brought two Shu Uemura eyelash curlers to exchange. I swear by curling eyelashes before putting on mascara — it makes them look so much longer and your eyes look bigger! We discuss our last book, The Whisper Man by Alex North. We all agree we liked it, and were glad it wasn’t that scary (chickens here!). We decide on our next book, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab. Wow, I have missed my friends and coworkers. Everyone has checked on me via text but I haven’t seen anyone face-to-face in over a month.
5 p.m. — I have a light dinner from leftovers from the charcuterie board and things my friends brought, and were kind enough to leave.
8:00 p.m. — After the kids are asleep, I work on a photobook. I’m planning on giving them to my parents and in-laws for Christmas, since I never know what to get them. Last week, we went to JCPenney as a family and took cheesy photos while wearing sweaters that said “Meowy Christmas” and had photos of our cats on them. I thought I was being original, but it turns out we were one of 10 groups taking awkward photos. I buy some Christmas cards and other merch, hitting $79 to get free shipping. $84.87
Daily Total: $84.87
Day Four: Monday
6:30 a.m. — Wake up, get the kids ready for school, eat breakfast, drink some coffee.
7:30 a.m. — Time to get the kids to school. B. drops off our daughter, L. I drop off our son, S. We sponsored the “hero snack cart” at S.’s school today for the teachers, so I pick up bagels and coffee for the cart and drop them off at the school. $38.36 for bagels, and coffee was bought at Costco last week. $38.36
9 a.m. — I take a morning bath. IT IS HEAVENLY. After surgery there was a period where I couldn’t even shower independently, and a period where I couldn’t get my incision wet. I have missed baths so much, and I hope I never take for granted the fact I can bathe on my own again.
11 a.m. — Meet B. for coffee. We love to sneak away for lunch coffees because it feels like we never get enough time to talk at home. We should get a babysitter more to go on dates, but it’s pricey and our last few babysitters have cancelled on us at short notice. We talk about our next vacation. We had to cancel a few trips (to Mexico and skiing in Colorado) due to my injury, and that was mentally hard for me. We decided to splurge and visit Hawaii during Spring Break. I have already bought flights on points. We found an Airbnb that wasn’t terrible, and put down a deposit. $775
1:00 p.m. — I go to physical therapy. I have leveled up, and am now using ankle weights with my leg raises (yay!). I buy an adjustable set for home. $23
3:00 p.m. — After PT, I head to a medical equipment store to pick up my new smaller leg brace. I will have to wear the smaller one with exercise, but anything is better than the monstrosity I have now, which spans my entire leg. They will bill insurance so I don’t pay anything today.
5 p.m. — I start the evening rush of dinner, kids’ bedtime routine, pick up house, etc, until it’s my bedtime.
Daily Total: $836.36
Day Five: Tuesday
6:30 a.m. — Same drill, wake up, get kids ready, breakfast, coffee, then physical therapy and house chores. Yesterday my PT noticed I was developing scar tissue, so I made a mental note and am focused on stretching and massaging it today. Too much scar tissue will mean I would walk with a limp for the rest of my life, yikes!
10 a.m. — I work on a project, sewing inserts into my sports bras. Pads should not be removable, and I stand by my opinion.
12 p.m. — Make a smoothie for lunch. While eating, I shop online. When I was freshly post-op and couldn’t move, I spent a lot of time and money online shopping. This means I got 90% of our Christmas shopping done. I have already bought the kids play silks, underwear, socks, video games, and new art supplies. However, I decide my S. needs one more gift, and buy her a giant unicorn squishmallow she totally doesn’t need, but will absolutely love. $40
1:00 p.m. — I begin my afternoon of rotting by texting with the group chat. It’s three of my closest friends from PA school. We have been together through school, breakups, weddings, kids, various jobs, and surgeries (one of my friends had a hip replacement the same week I had my ACL surgery, so we are recovering together). After 10 years in the medical field, healthcare has lost its luster for all of us. I make my weekly “side hustle” pitch — a podcast called “This Isn’t Medical Advice”. No one goes for it.
5:00 p.m. — I pick up the kids and take them to tumbling at the YMCA. Lessons were $110 a kid, already paid for. They would be $80 a kid if we belonged to the YMCA. I consider joining for $84 a month, but since I’m not cleared to work out yet, I defer.
7:30 p.m. — I get home, make dinner, get ready for bed, and pass out.
Daily Total: $40.00
Day Six: Wednesday
9:00 a.m. — House cleaners arrive. I’ve never had a house cleaner before, but since I’m on crutches and in a full leg brace, I thought it would be a worthwhile splurge. It’s amazing, the ladies do such a good job and they’re so sweet. I just need to decide whether to continue once I’m healed. $160
10:00 a.m. — It’s been a rough year for my extended family, as my brother-in-law was diagnosed with stage four cancer earlier this year. I have already coordinated with my sister-in-law to provide them with a house cleaning service for their Christmas present. I hope it takes some of the load off of her, as they have three young boys. My credit card is charged $280. $280
12:00 p.m. — Eat “girl lunch”, meaning whatever snacks I can scrounge up, and read reviews on food processors. I have been baking more at home, and our dinky mini food processor isn’t cutting it. B. suggested one he found on Wirecutter. I buy it for myself for Christmas. Meowy Catmas indeed. $250
1:00 p.m. — Afternoon of doom scrolling, trash television (Emily in Paris), rotting on the couch. I see a TikTok joking that “all the basic girls in Bali wear plumeria flower hair clips” and then go to Temu and buy one. Influenced. $1.03
5 p.m. — B. brings kids home from school, we eat dinner, do bedtime.
7:30 p.m. — I convince my husband to work on a project for Christmas. We are building a playroom downstairs. We already have d-rings in the ceiling with trapeze bars, but are adding to it by installing rungs to serve as monkey bars. This has been the absolute best thing we have done to entertain the kids. They will already play on the trapeze bars for hours, and know they will love the new rungs. The rungs were $60 from Amazon; my engineer husband is priceless. $40.00
Daily Total: $731.03
Day Seven: Thursday
6:30 a.m. — Rinse, repeat of morning routine.
8 a.m. — I decide to try a new recipe: cinnamon twists from Smitten Kitchen. Snack on that and coffee for “lunch”.
3:15 p.m. — Therapy for my brain. Getting injured and going from a physically active person (I previously ran 15-20 miles a week, did yoga/Pilates, hiked, and surf skated weekly) to almost completely sedentary has been mentally hard for me. I feel worthless that I can’t even clean my house, and for the first two weeks after surgery I couldn’t even shower or dress myself! I haven’t been productive during my four weeks off; I have been spending my time scrolling social media and Reddit, and rotting my brain rather than reading books or working on continuing education. My therapist suggests journaling. B. is up for joining me, so I buy us guided journals. Therapy is a free benefit through my work. $40
5:00 p.m. — I pick up Chipotle for dinner. $43
6 p.m. — Family movie night, we watch the Studio Ghibli movie Spirited Away, rented for free from the library. The library is my frugal life hack.
8 p.m — Bedtime for all.
Daily Total: $83.00
Conclusion
Conclusion:
Wow, that was a spendy week! We have spent the past few years saving up for our backyard renovation and a new car for me, so these expenses weren’t completely out of the blue. Now that I have gotten most of our Christmas shopping done and have paid off our deck, hopefully I can be a bit more budget-conscious in the new year, with a (hopefully) functional knee and leg.
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FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – MARCH 26: Julia Kammerer is seen wearing a green and white striped button down blouse with a pointed collar and a chest pocket from JJXX; a baby blue knit sweater draped around her shoulders from Lily Silk; off white wide leg trousers with a relaxed fit from Lily Silk; leopard print sneakers with white stripe details from Adidas x Wales Bonner; a brown leather “Loha” tote bag with dual top handles and a shoulder strap from Green Pomme; a light blue claw clip attached to the bag handle from H&M; her jewelry includes chunky gold hoop earrings and gold tone stacked rings worn across multiple fingers from H&M, Pandora and My Jewellery; orange tinted aviator sunglasses with a thin black frame from Bershka; her blonde hair is styled in loose waves with a center part on March 26, 2026 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)
Fluctuating spring weather poses a tricky dilemma to fashion girls everywhere, with temperatures being too cool for a mini skirt and tank top, yet too warm for a puffer coat and boots. The secret to mastering the complicated in-between? Transitional dressing.
This intentional solution bridges the seasonal style gap, leaning into a lineup of both heavier pieces and lightweight styles that can easily be layered or removed. These versatile items not only mix textures and weights for peak adaptability, but a strategic color palette combines neutral winter hues and vibrant spring shades for a well-rounded tonal range. The result is a foolproof ensemble that withstands brisk mornings and sun-soaked afternoons alike, nixing the need for a last-minute outfit change.
Airy cardigans, polished trench coats, versatile denim, and simple tees all meet the criteria, but knowing how to style each item is just as crucial as choosing the pieces themselves. The goal is to curate a layered look minus the bulk, leaning into breathable fabrics and sleek fits. But don’t be afraid to play with proportions; when done right, boxy jackets, oversized sweaters, and even flowing skirts add dimension to an outfit that proves you’re in the fashion know. Combining unlikely style elements is another approach, with spring-forward lace blouses and leather knee-high boots juxtaposing against one another for a statement look.
Take hold of tricky weather this season with the below transitional outfit ideas, ranging from date-night ready ensembles to polished power dressing. Each combination is easy to achieve and delivers major style impact.
Subtle Elegance
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 20: Marlies Pia Pfeifhofer is seen wearing a long camel brown suede leather „Clyde“ trench coat with a pointed collar, button fastening, wide sleeves and a straight, relaxed silhouette from Sézane; a black rib knit turtleneck top with a slim fitted silhouette from H&M; dark blue denim bermuda shorts with a straight knee length cut from Agolde; a slim dark brown leather belt with a gold tone buckle from Sézane; dark brown leather knee high „Georgina“ boots with a rounded toe, stacked block heel and structured shaft from GIABORGHINI; a structured burgundy leather „Elysée“ top handle bag with a sculptural fan shaped base, gold tone hardware, flap closure and shoulder handle from Michino Paris; slim oval sunglasses with a dark tortoiseshell acetate frame and tinted lenses from Corlin; a golden „Serpenti“ ring in a coiled snake design from Bulgari; tiny silver hoop earrings from Monica Vinader; her blonde hair is worn straight and loose in a sleek bob with a center part on March 20, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)
Airy jorts are often paired with thong sandals on tropical vacations, but the chic silhouette is brought into the interim with the help of knee-high boots and a lightweight knit. The longline top layer doesn’t only add style credibility but offers a hint of coziness.
Power Prints
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – MARCH 26: Julia Kammerer is seen wearing a green and white striped button down blouse with a pointed collar and a chest pocket from JJXX; a baby blue knit sweater draped around her shoulders from Lily Silk; off white wide leg trousers with a relaxed fit from Lily Silk; leopard print sneakers with white stripe details from Adidas x Wales Bonner; a brown leather “Loha” tote bag with dual top handles and a shoulder strap from Green Pomme; a light blue claw clip attached to the bag handle from H&M; her jewelry includes chunky gold hoop earrings and gold tone stacked rings worn across multiple fingers from H&M, Pandora and My Jewellery; orange tinted aviator sunglasses with a thin black frame from Bershka; her blonde hair is styled in loose waves with a center part on March 26, 2026 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)
Built from wardrobe basics, this transitional outfit is simple yet powerful. A striped shirt and playful sneakers add just the right amount of coolness, while relaxed pants keep things polished and light.
Weekend Edit
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 20: Amanda Mühle is seen wearing a khaki green bomber jacket with ribbed cuffs, a ribbed hem, a front zip closure and cropped silhouette from AllSaints; a red knit button front cropped cardigan with a V neckline from H&M; a white cotton T-shirt from Acne Studios; a white and blue small checked satin midi skirt with an A-line silhouette and a fluid drape from Zara; black leather ankle boots with a rounded toe, a chunky lug rubber sole from Vagabond; a “Monogram Medium Pelham Hobo” purse in beige and brown with dark leather trim, a woven leather top handle and gold tone hardware from Gucci; narrow slim rectangular black sunglasses with dark tinted lenses from Children of a glass god; multiple gold rings from Pilgrim; gold chunky hoop earrings from Sezáne; holding white wired earphones from Apple; her long dark brown hair is worn loose in soft waves with a center part on March 20, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)
Maxi skirts are often confined to summer, though intentional layering turns them into a multi-seasonal staple. A crewneck tee, button-up cardigan, and suede jacket do just that, creating a laid-back and versatile look.
Date-Night Ready
PARIS, FRANCE – OCTOBER 07: A guest wears hair pulled back into a sleek low bun with a center part, black rectangular sunglasses, gold-tone round earrings, a white leather bag shoulder bag with gold hardware handheld by a top handle, a long dark brown leather coat with a shirt collar and button front, a black silk camisole top with lace trim and cream wide-leg trousers, cream leather pointed-toe pumps shoes with a low kitten heel, outside AJE, during Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Spring Summer 2026, on October 07, 2025 in Paris, France (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)
Nothing says spring like a pair of ecru jeans—but an asymmetrical lace cami raises the bar. Ivory satin pumps fall in line with warm-weather dressing, while a structured leather trench coat adds a sultry, unexpected touch for cooler nights.
Polished Prep
PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 10: A guest wears a pink leather Miu Miu bag, a grey pleated high waist skirt, white long socks, grey leather pumps, a white top, black sunglasses and a white knitted Miu Miu cardigan outside Miu Miu show during Day Nine of Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Fall/Winter 2026/2027 on March 10, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by Valentina Frugiuele/Getty Images)
This chic and refined look capitalizes on the details, leaning into ankle socks, a cool cardigan, and pointed-toe shoes. What was once a school uniform is now elevated, easily worn to brunch with the girls or for a stroll through the park.
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