Cosmic beings, welcome to one of the freshest weeks of 2026. We’re still very much under the influence of the Gemini new moon...

Cosmic beings, welcome to one of the freshest weeks of 2026. We’re still very much under the influence of the Gemini new moon that took place on June 14th, and because it occurred while both the sun and Uranus were in Gemini, there’s an undeniable spirit of reinvention in the air. If you’ve been wanting to rebrand, relocate, renovate, launch something, change your style, update your routines, or simply explore a different side of yourself, this lunation is giving you permission to experiment. You have until June 24th to actively work with these intentions, and because the Gemini full moon that completes this story won’t arrive until November 24th, the choices you make now have much longer-term implications than they may initially appear.

What’s interesting is that this new moon is ruled by Mercury, currently moving through Cancer and already approaching its retrograde shadow period. So while Gemini energy is encouraging curiosity, possibility, and movement, Mercury in Cancer is asking whether your decisions actually feel aligned. This week rewards calculated risks rather than impulsive ones. Explore the possibilities, but make sure your choices are connected to intuition rather than boredom, pressure, or fear of missing out. Gemini Season wants movement, but Mercury in Cancer reminds us that not every open door is meant to be walked through.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters Taurus for a three-month preview of a much larger chapter that begins in April 2027. Chiron, an asteroid often called the Wounded Healer, represents the places where we carry insecurities but also develop wisdom through healing. Since 2018, Chiron in Aries has taught collective lessons around identity, courage, independence, and self-advocacy. Chiron in Taurus shifts the focus toward self-worth, stability, money, the body, pleasure, and our relationship with security itself. Unlike Uranus in Taurus, which often brought sudden external change, Chiron in Taurus works more quietly, helping us heal the foundation beneath our lives. As the week comes to an end, stay open to the possibilities Gemini Season is revealing while remaining grounded in what truly supports you. Reinvention becomes much more sustainable when it’s built on a foundation that can actually hold it.

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

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Aries Sun & Rising:

Aries, there’s something liberating about realizing you no longer need to keep everything inside. This week’s Gemini new moon working its magic through your communication, creativity, and connection sector, and many Aries will feel like a door has opened mentally. Conversations flow more easily, ideas arrive more rapidly, and a writing project, business idea, or new way of introducing yourself to the world may be asking for more space to breathe. The beauty of this new moon is that it rewards curiosity over perfection. Share, draft, post, pitch, brainstorm, and explore without needing to know exactly where it’s all leading. Whatever intentions you’re setting now around communication, creativity, learning, or connection have powerful growth potential between now and the Gemini full moon on November 24th.

Then on June 19th, a chapter that has defined much of your growth since 2018 begins to shift. Chiron, the asteroid associated with wounds and healing, leaves your sign and enters Taurus for a three-month preview. Chiron in Aries helped you become more resilient, self-aware, and authentic, even when growth felt uncomfortable. Now the focus moves toward money, security, and self-worth. The question is no longer who you are, but what helps you feel safe and supported. A beautiful way to honor this transition is to thank the version of yourself that carried you through the past eight years and then make one intentional investment in your future, whether that’s raising your rates, strengthening your savings, nourishing your body, or simply treating your needs as worthy of being prioritized. Chiron in Taurus will teach you that security is something you build from the inside out.

Taurus Sun & Rising:

Taurus, this Gemini new moon week’s asking you to expand your definition of abundance. The new moon is activating your money, self-worth, and security sector, but because Uranus is also in Gemini, the message isn’t simply “make more money.” It’s “be open to new ways of making money, sharing your gifts, and creating stability.” As a Fixed Earth sign, you naturally appreciate consistency, but this week rewards thoughtful experimentation. If you were to imagine yourself six months from now feeling freer, wealthier, more confident, and more supported, what choices would Future You be glad you started making today? Whether it’s launching an offer, learning a new skill, raising your rates, investing in yourself, or creating an additional stream of income, the seeds planted now have powerful growth potential between now and the Gemini full moon on November 24th.

Then on June 19th, you experience one of the most significant shifts of the year as Chiron enters your sign for a three-month preview. Chiron’s spent the past eight years in your healing and subconscious sector, helping you process old grief, fears, self-sabotaging patterns, and emotional baggage that often operated behind the scenes. Now the focus becomes much more personal. Chiron in Taurus shines a light directly on your identity, your relationship with your body, your self-worth, and the ways you define security. Some Tauruses may become more aware of insecurities they’ve learned to hide, while others may feel called to make changes that better reflect who they’re becoming. The key is not to view this as something being “wrong” with you. Chiron reveals where healing wants to happen. A beautiful way to work with this transit is through embodiment: nourishing your body, spending time in nature, strengthening your finances, and creating routines that reinforce the message that your worth is inherent, not something you have to earn. This is the beginning of a much deeper relationship with yourself.

Gemini Sun & Rising:

Gemini, when you change, your entire reality tends to change with you. This Gemini new moon week is especially personal because the new moon, the sun, and Uranus are all activating your sign, putting the spotlight directly on your identity, goals, appearance, confidence, and the way you’re introducing yourself to the world. You’re always evolving, but right now other people are noticing it, too. Opportunities may arrive more easily, people may respond differently to your energy, and your manifestation powers are stronger than usual because you’re aligned with momentum rather than resistance. Have fun with that. Since Mercury, your ruler, is in Cancer moving through your money and self-worth sector, don’t forget your value in the process. Set intentions that honor not only who you want to become, but what you genuinely believe you’re worthy of receiving.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters Taurus and brings a very different energy into the conversation. While everyone else may be noticing your glow-up externally, Chiron quietly asks what’s happening behind the scenes. Over the next three months, this preview transit begins activating your healing, solitude, and subconscious sector, helping you notice patterns that are easier to ignore when life gets exciting. This doesn’t have to be dramatic. It may simply look like realizing you’re more tired than you thought, recognizing a fear that’s still influencing your decisions, or needing more alone time to process all the growth taking place. The invitation is not to choose between inner work and outer success… it’s to remember they support each other. The more honest you are about what needs healing beneath the surface, the easier it becomes to sustain everything you’re building above it.

Cancer Sun & Rising:

Cancer, can you feel it? Your solar season is loading. This is the last full week of Gemini Season, and the Gemini new moon’s activating your spirituality, healing, and solitude sector, making this less about external achievements and more about preparing your spirit for what’s next. Think of it as the final chapter before a new personal year begins. What habits, beliefs, fears, or emotional patterns are you ready to leave behind? What would a spiritual glow-up actually look like for you? Because Mercury, the ruler of this new moon, is currently moving through your sign, you’re especially tuned in to your intuition right now. Trust the nudges. The intentions you set now are helping create the emotional and spiritual foundation for the next six months.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters Taurus and begins a three-month preview in your friendship, community, and future vision sector. This transit may bring healing opportunities through your social world, but healing isn’t always comfortable at first. Some Cancers may find themselves grieving a friendship that’s naturally drifting apart. Others may need to have an honest conversation they’ve been avoiding. And some may realize that a friendship’s becoming stronger precisely because both people are finally being honest about their needs. Chiron in Taurus asks you to stop measuring the health of a friendship by the absence of conflict. Real friendship can survive accountability, boundaries, difficult conversations, and moments of disappointment. Over the next few months, pay attention to who creates safety for authenticity rather than perfection. The strongest connections in your life will be the ones that allow everyone involved to be human.

Leo Sun & Rising:

Leo, there’s a difference between being surrounded by people and feeling connected to them, and this Gemini new moon week wants you to focus on the latter. The new moon’s activating your friendship, community, and future vision sector, making this an incredibly powerful time to think about where you’re headed and who you’re building alongside. New friendships, collaborations, networking opportunities, online communities, and long-term goals can all receive a boost over the next six months. Because Mercury, the ruler of this new moon, is moving through your spirituality sector, trust your intuition when it comes to people. Not every opportunity needs to be pursued, and not every connection needs to become a close friendship. The intentions you set now should focus less on popularity and more on alignment. The right people will help you become more of yourself, not less.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters Taurus and begins a three-month preview in your career, visibility, and reputation sector. This can bring up sensitivities around success, recognition, leadership, or being seen. Some Leos may realize they’re carrying old wounds around criticism, authority figures, imposter syndrome, or feeling like they have to prove their worth through achievement. Others may become more aware of how much their career path’s been shaped by other people’s expectations rather than their own desires. The good news is that Chiron’s purpose isn’t to create wounds, but to help heal them. Over the next few months, pay attention to where you seek external validation and where you’re ready to define success on your own terms. The strongest foundation for your next chapter won’t be built on applause. It’ll be built on self-trust.

Virgo Sun & Rising:

Virgo, this Gemini new moon week is asking you to think bigger about what you’re building and who you’re becoming publicly. The new moon’s activating your career, visibility, and long-term ambition sector, making this one of the most important weeks of the year for setting professional intentions. Whether you’re looking to grow a business, step into leadership, change industries, launch a project, or simply receive more recognition for your work, the seeds planted now can grow significantly between now and the Gemini full moon on November 24th. Because Mercury, the ruler of this new moon and your ruling planet, is moving through your friendship and community sector, opportunities are more likely to arrive through conversations, introductions, and community than through isolation this time around.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters fellow Earth sign Taurus and begins a three-month preview in your expansion, spirituality, and belief sector. This can bring healing around old stories you’ve carried about what’s possible for you. Some Virgos may become aware of limiting beliefs around success, travel, education, visibility, faith, or taking up more space in the world. Others may find themselves questioning philosophies or goals that once felt certain. The purpose isn’t to create confusion but to help you build a belief system that genuinely supports your growth. Over the next few months, notice where you’re underestimating yourself, playing smaller than necessary, or waiting until you feel perfectly prepared before taking action. Chiron in Taurus reminds you that confidence isn’t always what comes before the leap. Sometimes it develops because you were willing to take it.

Libra Sun & Rising:

Libra, this Gemini new moon week is reminding you that your life gets bigger the moment you stop assuming you’ve already seen all your options. The new moon is activating your expansion, travel, education, and big-picture sector, making this a powerful time to set intentions around what you want to learn, experience, teach, or explore between now and the Gemini full moon on November 24th. Some Libras may feel called toward travel, others toward a new certification, spiritual practice, business venture, or simply a different way of looking at life. Because Mercury, the ruler of this new moon, is moving through your career sector, pay attention to opportunities that help you expand professionally as well as personally.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters Taurus and begins a three-month preview in your intimacy, vulnerability, and shared resources sector. This can bring healing around trust, emotional reciprocity, financial partnerships, and the places where you’ve struggled to fully let people in. Some Libras may become more aware of old wounds around abandonment, dependence, rejection, or feeling like they have to keep everything balanced and pleasant even when deeper needs aren’t being met. Others may notice patterns around money, debt, support, or receiving help. Chiron in Taurus isn’t asking you to become less independent. It’s asking you to examine whether you’ve confused self-sufficiency with emotional safety. Over the next few months, the greatest healing may come from allowing yourself to be supported, seen, and understood without feeling like you owe perfection in return.

Scorpio Sun & Rising:

Scorpio, some new moons ask you to start something. This week’s Gemini new moon asks you to trust something. The new moon is activating your sector of intimacy, wealth, soulmate connections, and transformation, making it one of the most potent lunations of the year for you. Because Gemini energy is involved, growth may arrive through unexpected conversations, surprising opportunities, new collaborations, multiple income streams, or unconventional approaches to love and partnership. The key is releasing the need to control exactly how the manifestation unfolds.

If you’ve been setting intentions around financial abundance, deeper intimacy, emotional healing, investments, business partnerships, or calling in healthier relationship dynamics, the next six months can bring remarkable momentum. Stay open to possibilities that don’t look exactly like the plan you originally envisioned. Sometimes abundance arrives through a side door you hadn’t considered, and sometimes love deepens through shared experiences, laughter, adventure, and friendship just as much as through emotional vulnerability.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters Taurus and begins a three-month preview in your relationship sector. This is a significant shift because it asks you to become more honest about patterns you’ve been carrying into love, dating, friendship, and partnership. Some Scorpios may recognize places where they’ve been abandoning their own needs or accepting less than they deserve. Others may notice ways they’ve protected themselves so intensely that genuine intimacy has struggled to fully reach them. Chiron’s purpose isn’t to blame or shame… it’s to reveal what wants healing. Over the next few months, pay attention to recurring themes in your relationships. The connections that are meant to grow with you will benefit from honesty, accountability, stronger boundaries, and clearer communication. The ones that can’t withstand those things may be showing you exactly why they’ve reached their expiration date.

Sagittarius Sun & Rising:

Sag, if there’s one thing this week’s Gemini new moon doesn’t want you doing, it’s trying to figure everything out by yourself. The new moon’s activating your partnership sector, making relationships the area of life with the greatest growth potential between now and the Gemini full moon on November 24th. Whether you’re single, dating, married, building a business, or strengthening friendships, this is a powerful week to set intentions around the kinds of connections you want to cultivate. The key is staying open. Sagittarius energy can sometimes assume freedom and commitment are opposites, but this new moon is here to show you that the right relationships expand your world rather than limit it.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters Taurus and begins a three-month preview in your health, wellness, and routines sector. This transit asks an important question: does your daily life actually support the future you’re trying to build? Some Archers may become more aware of burnout, inconsistent habits, stress patterns, or the tendency to focus on the big vision while neglecting the small systems that make it possible. Others may notice that their relationship with their body needs more care, patience, and consistency. Chiron in Taurus is asking for sustainability. Over the next few months, pay attention to the routines that help you feel grounded, nourished, and supported. The bigger your dreams become, the more important it is to create a foundation strong enough to hold them.

Capricorn Sun & Rising:

Capricorn, this Gemini new moon week is proof that the smallest changes often create the biggest results. The new moon is activating your health, wellness, work, and routines sector, making this one of the most practical and productive lunations of the year for you. While other signs may be focused on reinvention through travel, romance, or big life pivots, your growth comes through the systems you build day by day. The next six months can bring meaningful improvements in your health, workflow, schedule, business operations, or overall quality of life if you’re willing to make adjustments now. Because Mercury, the ruler of this new moon, is moving through your relationship sector, don’t be afraid to ask for support, delegate, collaborate, or communicate your needs more clearly. You don’t have to carry everything alone to prove you’re capable.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters fellow Earth sign Taurus and begins a three-month preview in your creativity, romance, pleasure, and inner child sector. This can feel surprisingly vulnerable because Capricorn energy is often more comfortable producing, achieving, and planning than simply enjoying. Over the next few months, you may become more aware of wounds around self-expression, being seen creatively, receiving affection, allowing yourself pleasure, or believing that joy has to be earned before it can be experienced. Some Capricorns may rediscover hobbies they abandoned years ago. Others may realize they’ve been approaching love with the same seriousness they bring to work. Chiron in Taurus gently asks you to reconnect with the parts of yourself that create, play, laugh, flirt, and dream without needing a measurable outcome.

Aquarius Sun & Rising:

Aquarius, this Gemini new moon week’s a reminder that life’s meant to be lived, not just analyzed. The new moon is activating your creativity, romance, pleasure, and self-expression sector, making this one of the most joyful and heart-opening lunations of the year for you. The next six months can bring exciting developments in love, dating, creative projects, passion pursuits, entrepreneurship, children, or simply your willingness to let yourself be seen more authentically. Because Gemini energy is playful and experimental, this isn’t about having a five-year plan for your happiness. It’s about following what sparks your curiosity and excitement. And because Mercury, the ruler of this new moon, is moving through your wellness and routines sector, pay attention to the habits that either support or suppress your creativity. The more space you make for joy in your daily life, the easier it becomes to attract more of it.

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters Taurus and begins a three-month preview in your home, family, and emotional foundation sector. This is a significant shift because it asks you to examine what security means beneath the surface. Some Aquarians may find old family dynamics resurfacing for healing. Others may become more aware of childhood narratives, emotional patterns, or living situations that no longer reflect who they’re becoming. Chiron in Taurus is less interested in the image of stability and more interested in whether you actually feel safe, supported, and at home within yourself. Over the next few months, pay attention to what brings genuine emotional grounding. The stronger your foundation becomes, the easier it’ll be to build everything else you dream of on top of it.

Pisces Sun & Rising:

Pisces, this Gemini new moon week’s inviting you to build a life that feels as good on the inside as it looks from the outside. The new moon’s activating your home, family, and roots sector, making this a powerful time to set intentions around where and how you want to live, who you want to surround yourself with, and what helps you feel emotionally secure. Some Pisces may be thinking about moving, redecorating, spending more time with family, creating stronger boundaries at home, or simply cultivating a greater sense of peace in their everyday environment. Because Mercury, the ruler of this new moon, is moving through fellow water sign Cancer in your creativity, romance, and joy sector, don’t overcomplicate the process. Ask yourself a simple question: what would make life feel more nourishing, more beautiful, and more like home?

Then on June 19th, Chiron enters Taurus and begins a three-month preview in your communication, mindset, and self-expression sector. This can bring healing around your voice, your confidence in your ideas, and the stories you tell yourself about whether you’re being heard or understood. Some Pisces may become more aware of moments when they stay silent to keep the peace, minimize their needs, or assume others should intuitively know what they’re feeling. Others may feel called to write, teach, create content, speak publicly, or express themselves in ways that feel more direct than usual. Over the next few months, pay attention to where you’re editing yourself unnecessarily. Healing may come through discovering that your voice deserves just as much space as everyone else’s in the conversation.

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The decision to get married is deeply personal, and so is the ring you choose to wear for a lifetime. It’s more than a simple...

The decision to get married is deeply personal, and so is the ring you choose to wear for a lifetime. It’s more than a simple piece of jewelry. It’s a symbol of commitment, identity, and even style. And while the relationship with your significant other is what matters most, you want to be just as in love with your forever ring.

Because of this, engagement rings are feeling more expressive in 2026. Lovebirds are still prioritizing romance and longevity, but the design conversation is shifting towards unique cuts, bold silhouettes, and unexpected details that speak to the couple itself. These modern engagement rings serve as a looking glass into the relationship, highlighting personality and values, while serving as wearable art. 

Celebrity engagements continue to influence this dialogue, whether it’s a vintage-cut stone that sparkles under candlelight or a framed setting that adds dimension. Often created alongside star designers, these headline-making styles set the tone for what feels current.

More importantly, engagement ring trends are a starting point, not a rulebook. Whether couples opt for a natural or lab-grown diamond, a yellow or white-gold band, or a champagne-hued stone is entirely up to them. Today’s engagement rings are about interpretation and not formula, making it easier than ever to choose a piece that’s both current and intimate. 

Whether you’re saying yes beneath the cliffs of Positano or on the couch eating takeout, discover the five engagement ring trends that lean less traditional and more expressive for 2026.

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East-West Stones

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Zendaya attends the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/WireImage)

Elongated diamonds are being set in an east-west orientation, horizontally sitting across the finger for an architectural look. This design choice takes a classic shape—marquis, oval, emerald—and turns it into something quietly distinctive. Set the stone in a thin bezel for a finishing flourish.

Vintage Romance

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 26: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) (L-R) Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift attend the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards at Dolby Theatre on March 26, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for iHeartRadio)

Vintage-inspired rings are romantic, emotional, and perfectly imperfect. The antique-inspired diamonds boast softer facets and a candlelit glow, making for an idyllic choice. Pair it with yellow gold to enhance its warmth, or add hidden engraving for a personal touch. 

Full Volume Bands

PARIS, FRANCE – JANUARY 27: Dua Lipa attends Chanel Haute Couture Week Spring/Summer 2026 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on January 27, 2026 in Paris, France. (Photo by JB Lacroix/Getty Images)

Bold minimalism and statement simplicity come together to create weighty designs. This heavier appearance prioritizes presence over delicacy, sometimes encasing the stone in its entirety. It’s a bold statement approach, often found in yellow gold.

Warm Honey Diamonds

CANNES, FRANCE – MAY 20: Scarlett Johansson attends the “Vie Privée” (A Private Life) red carpet at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 20, 2025 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Lionel Hahn/Getty Images)

Honeyed brown, champagne-colored, and sunlit ocher diamonds tap into organic warmth, mimicking liquid gold. These warmer tones move away from bright, icy white diamonds, pairing beautifully with yellow- and rose-gold settings

High-Impact Cluster Rings

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – JUNE 06: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Lainey Wilson performs during the 2026 CMA Fest on June 06, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Taylor Hill/FilmMagic)

Single stones are being swapped for groups of diamonds set in bold, dimensional designs. This maximalist take adds texture and dimension to a vintage-style ring with a modern flair.

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We’ve officially entered hot girl summer and that’s all thanks to the one and only Megan Thee Stallion . The ultimate...

We’ve officially entered hot girl summer and that’s all thanks to the one and only Megan Thee Stallion. The ultimate It girl turned her song into a whole vibey lifestyle that we’re excited to embrace every time the weather gets warm. So, as we prepare to celebrate at pool parties and long beach days, we’re looking to Megan for her best tips and must-haves to stay hot (and keep cool) all summer long.

Timed to her campaign for NYX Professional Makeup’s Caramelt Mami Body Oil and her Hot Girl Summer swim runway during Miami Swim Week, Megan is spilling what she keeps in her beach bag to stay prepared for anything. From sleek Gucci sunglasses and her go-to SPF to a Nintendo Switch and an unreleased perfume she teased to Refinery29 (we’re keeping our eyes peeled!), the singer bares all. Plus, we get to see the mogul proudly show off her many brands and collaborations that we can support beyond her music.

Ahead, watch Megan Thee Stallion’s full Spill It video and shop everything in her beach bag now.

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Meg’s Fashion Beach Bag Must-Haves

Right off the bat, Megan shows out with a timeless summer bag from Saint Laurent. “She’s a little see-through. That’s how you know she’s specifically for the beach, ’cause you ain’t supposed to be bringing no big old serious bag to the beach,” Megan tells Refinery29 about her raffia tote.

While you’re likely to see her wearing her own Hot Girl Summer swimwear out on a yacht, she’s also packing an extra swimsuit in her bag “because you just never know when you’ll need to make an outfit change,” opting for a pink tie-dye bikini. (Likewise, she packs an extra thong, explaining: “I have a fresh pair of panties ‘cause you just never know when you’ll need one of those” with a cheeky laugh.)

“Are you on your way to the pool party right now? You might not like your swimsuit, but guess what? You’re gonna like mine and you can run right up to Walmart and go grab it,” she adds. While many styles have either sold out or are only available to pre-order online, there are more options at physical Walmart stores to quickly refresh your swimwear drawer.

The cherry on top of her beach look is her Gucci sunglasses. On close inspection, they seem to be these sleek black rectangular frames.

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Meg’s Beauty Beach Bag Must-Haves

Highlighting her new NYX Caramelt Mami Body Oil as a must-have, Megan says: “I am wearing this all summer. I’m smelling good. I’m smelling like a bakery. I’m shimmering. I’m shining. I’m golden. I’m ‘caramelt.’ You need this. I got this on right now.” And from the look of Megan and her Miami Swim Week models doused in the oil on the runway under the spotlights, we’ve been convinced that we need a bottle (or two) to glow in the summer sun.

She’s also putting sun protection first, plucking out Neutrogena’s ultra-sheer sunscreen in SPF 70 from her bag (a similar product made it into our 2026 SPF Awards too).

The singer revealed her trusty lip combo… because her beauty is always going to be on point, even at the beach. Also from NYX, she opts for a brown cream lip liner and complementary lip gloss, exclaiming: “It’s butter gloss! That’s why it smells good!”

But one thing she’s not quite revealing yet? Her summer scent. Holding up a tester bottle, Megan explains: “Everybody that comes across me is always like: ‘Oh my gosh, you smell so good. What is that smell?’ Girl, I have curated the smell. Okay? This is the smell. Coming soon!” Through some internet sleuthing across TikTok and Reddit, the singer has been linked to wearing Miss Dior, Revlon’s Reign On, Byredo’s La Tulipe, and Xerjoff’s Erba Pura, so we expect a bright, floral, citrusy scent. 

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Meg’s Food, Drink & Entertainment Beach Bag Must-Haves  

Perhaps it’s not the most practical (aka delicate) item in her beach bag, but Megan claims that she totes around her tequila brand Chicas Divertidas. “This is the tequila of the summer and it’s definitely about to get the girls turnt,” she says. But she also carries a water bottle to stay hydrated. Megan also revealed two literal body shot glasses that have yet to launch, but that she thinks pair perfectly with her liquor.

As for food, Megan says: “A snack because I’m gonna keep a snack on deck. This is my collab with Cheetos. My Flamin’ Hot Dill Pickle Cheetos.” While her limited-edition bag may be hard to get your hands on, Megan ensured that the limited-edition flavor became a fixture after she proclaimed her love for it.

And for perhaps the most surprising item in her beach bag, Megan pulled out her Nintendo Switch console, saying: “My Switch because I be playing games” with a wink to the camera. Because hot girls play video games too, duh.

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Nature reserve of the Sierra Mariola in Bocairent, Valencian Community, Spain, Europe. Beware: the last New Moon of spring i...

Nature reserve of the Sierra Mariola in Bocairent, Valencian Community, Spain, Europe.

Beware: the last New Moon of spring is going to be messy. To prepare for this explosive lunation, try to rest and relax beforehand because we’ll need all of our mental devices unpacked and ready to rumble. June 14th’s New Moon in Gemini will make say erratic sentiments that aren’t properly thought through. All the more reason to ask for edits from a trusted pal before sending a text or email that will shake up our lives. 

At this moment, we are longing to find new ways to express ourselves. Instead of appealing to others in the usual ways, we will take a non-conformist approach to expressing our innermost sentiments. This will require us to be completely direct and honest, which contrasts with Gemini’s trickster nature; however, once we open up, it will be easy for us to discuss matters freely. The caveat is that Mercury retrograde’s pre-shadow begins the day before the lunation, so it’s important to have patience and empathy not just for ourselves, but for others who are sharing their emotions and concerns with us.

The silver lining is that our curiosities will be piqued, since the Mercurial nature of Gemini always asks us to seek understanding; nonetheless, we will be able to find meaning and offer insight into tense moments when they arise because we want to advance our discernment of ourselves and others. As long as we are gentle in how we express ourselves and talk to ourselves, we can find a place of peace and love. The goal is to stay in our lanes when we are placed in situations and focus on how we can improve our lives. 

The presence of Black Moon Lilith (the mathematical space that denotes the farthest point that the moon is from Earth) in Sagittarius is going to push us to stand up for ourselves when others start in with us. It’s not that we don’t want to have it out, but the circumstances will call for a reckoning of sorts to ensure that people respect our boundaries. Black Moon Lilith evokes repressed sentiments, particularly regarding injustices. The temptation to grandstand for those we care about is extreme; however, we shouldn’t fight other people’s battles when they aren’t appreciative of our efforts or dedicated to the cause. Pull back the energy and assert your power in matters that relate to us personally. 

The good news is that we aren’t going to cower before anyone who aims to dominate us. Being submissive and apologizing, even if we’re right, doesn’t help prove a point or let people know we are a doormat. We must defend ourselves. The warning here is not to take matters to the limit; knowing when to stop is vital. We may be unable to find the proper words, due to Mercury being in the pre-shadow zone, allowing us to remove ourselves when the theatrics get too hot.

The “spiritual warrior” Eris, which is in Aries, adds a flair of impulsivity and combustibility. Checking ourselves to ensure we don’t go off the deep end is pivotal. When in doubt, take a step back and ask a friend or family member for advice. Even if we don’t like what they convey, we might be swayed by their opinions once we process the guidance and consider the best way to proceed. Confronting those who are not treating us well can be done concisely and directly, without contradiction. Eris is going to come in with sharp and quick wit to make a point, then drop it like it’s hot and move on. 

On the same day, Mercury in Cancer shares a minor frustration with Uranus in Gemini. The lesson is to break free from unhealthy, toxic patterns and behaviors that hold us back. To become the best version of ourselves, we must prove our strength and authority. We are no longer sitting in the backseat or being a passenger princess — we are steering the wheel.

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Until now, getting a new sunscreen filter — the ingredient responsible for protecting skin from damaging, cancer-caus...

Until now, getting a new sunscreen filter — the ingredient responsible for protecting skin from damaging, cancer-causing UVA and UVB rays — has felt like the beauty industry’s longest-running will-they-won’t-they saga. This week, however, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved bemotrizinol, aka BEMT, making it the first new sunscreen filter to be signed off in the US in more than 20 years.

But what exactly is it, and what does it mean for our skincare routines?

First, the backstory. For years, it seemed as though countries outside the US were gatekeeping the most cosmetically elegant sunscreen formulas: the ones that don’t pill under makeup, never sting sensitive eyes, or leave a dubious white cast on deeper skin tones. The reality is more complicated. While sunscreen is considered a cosmetic product across much of Europe and Asia, in the US, it’s regulated as an over-the-counter drug — subject to the kind of rigorous (and subsequently slow) approval process compared to other beauty products.

Dermatologists, skin cancer specialists, cosmetic chemists, and even Congress have long urged the FDA to review and approve newer UV filters already available elsewhere. This week, they succeeded, and according to the American Academy of Dermatology, US sunscreen manufacturers will be able to include BEMT as an active ingredient from August 9 2026.

Ahead, dermatologists and a cosmetic chemist explain exactly what BEMT is, how it works, and what its approval means for your sunscreen.

Consumers with medium to deeper skin tones will notice that they have more sunscreen options with elegant finishes and fewer visible white casts.

Zobia Ahmed, a cosmetic chemist and product developer.

What is bemotrizinol or BEMT, and how will it make sunscreen better?

Zobia Ahmed, a cosmetic chemist and product developer, says that BEMT is a broad-spectrum, chemical UV filter: “It’s used in sunscreen to help protect the skin from UVA rays — associated with contributing to dark spots and premature aging — and UVB rays, which are commonly associated with sunburn,” she says. Both types of rays damage DNA, causing mutations that can lead to skin cancers such as melanoma.

Joshua Zeichner, MD, a dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, adds that BEMT offers “superior UV protection” to what is currently used in the US. Ahmed agrees and notes that many traditional US chemical sunscreens can feel “heavy, greasy, and shiny,” even leaving an uncomfortable film on the skin. That’s because the approved chemicals filters brands have been using are much oilier, she says.

Happily, BEMT is oil-soluble, meaning it spreads easily on the skin, says Dr. Zeichner. “Innovations using BEMT will give consumers more appealing sunscreen options,” he adds: “Products that are lightweight, blend easily, and feel good on the skin — all important factors to ensure regular sunscreen use.”

What skin types benefit most from sunscreens containing BEMT?

Everyone can benefit from sunscreen formulated with BEMT, says Ahmed, but perhaps some more than others. “Consumers with medium to deeper skin tones will notice that they have more sunscreen options with elegant finishes and fewer visible white casts,” she adds. While chemical sunscreens are generally less likely to leave behind an ashy finish than mineral formulas, Ahmed says BEMT can also help create more elegant mineral-chemical hybrid sunscreens.

Ahmed continues that people with oily skin will also appreciate the types of formulas BEMT can make possible. “We will see more lightweight, possibly even mattifying sunscreen options,” she says.

Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, adds that while these formulas may feel more lightweight, they still provide strong broad-spectrum protection. She also notes that because BEMT is generally well tolerated, it should benefit those with sensitive or reactive skin, reducing the potential for stinging, as well as people prone to eye irritation.

Anyone who has picked up a European sunscreen while traveling, and noticed how different it felt from what we have here at home, will understand what this approval could mean for the everyday sunscreen experience in the US.

Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology

Which international sunscreens already include BEMT, and how will it change SPF options in the US?

Dr. Garshick is ready for a change: “Anyone who has picked up a European sunscreen while traveling, and noticed how different it felt from what we have here at home, will understand what this approval could mean for the everyday sunscreen experience in the US,” she says. Outside the US, the filter is already used and well regarded by many brands, most notably Australia’s Ultra Violette — and given Australia’s strong sun protection culture, it’s fair to say they know a thing or two about sunscreen.

Samantha Brett, founder of another beloved Aussie skincare brand, Naked Sundays, says the approval is a major win for SPF innovation and, most importantly, for everyone who wears sunscreen. “At Naked Sundays, we’ve had a head start because we’ve been formulating with [BEMT] for years in Australia, where it is an approved active ingredient,” she says. Brett believes that innovations like these will help make daily sun protection second nature, particularly as brands develop SPF products people actually want to wear every day.

The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that nearly 90% of skin cancers are linked to sun exposure and can largely be avoided. With that in mind, Dr. Garshick notes that when the right filters improve how comfortable a sunscreen feels on skin, it can have a meaningful impact on skin cancer prevention.

You might also see BEMT listed as bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine — the scientific name for the filter. Alongside Ultra Violette, established European brands like Eucerin, Nuxe, Bioderma, and Caudalie — as well as British brands such as Medik8, Hello Sunday, and Ultrasun — already use the ingredient in their face and body sunscreens.

“BEMT is used in many popular Korean sunscreens, too,” says Ahmed. “You can find it in Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua Fresh, Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen, and House of Hur Weightless Sun Fluid.”

Dr. Garshick says that approval doesn’t mean these exact formulations will immediately become available in the US, but she adds, “It opens the door for brands to develop products that more closely resemble the elegant sunscreen textures [we] have long sought from international markets.” This is a genuinely exciting shift for what the American sunscreen aisle could look like soon, she says.

Will bemotrizinol (BEMT) make sunscreen more affordable, or just better?

BEMT is considered a mid-to-premium cost UV filter, but Ahmed doesn’t expect it to dramatically change sunscreen pricing: “It’s simply another ingredient that formulators can use,” she says, “but brands still need to build complete formulas around it.” In other words, affordability depends on the brand using it.

Hello Sunday, for example, sits in the more accessible price range, while luxury brands such as Dior and Augustinus Bader also use BEMT (listed as bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine).

The cost of sunscreen is influenced by more than the filter used, including formulation, packaging, and brand marketing — but the recent approval could make the ingredient more widely accessible very soon. In fact, Dr. Zeichner predicts which brands might first adopt it: “We’re likely to see leading sunscreen brands, including Neutrogena, working to bring new formulations with BEMT to consumers, with availability anticipated later this year,” he says.

At Refinery29, we’ve always said that the best sunscreen is the one you actually want to use. With BEMT improving texture, reducing white casts, and being better tolerated across a range of skin types, we’re excited to try the new wave of products following this welcome announcement. As Dr. Garshick notes, “Sunscreen only works if people are willing to wear it every day.”

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We can’t get enough of men yearning , and Abigail Cowen knows it. In her latest TV show Every Year After , there’s no shorta...

We can’t get enough of men yearning, and Abigail Cowen knows it. In her latest TV show Every Year After, there’s no shortage. For over a decade, Sam Florek (Matt Cornett) yearns for Persephone ‘Percy’ Fraser (Sadie Soverall) while Jordie Lin (Joseph Chiu) pines for Delilah Mason (Abigail Cowen). It’s a crushing story about what happens when your first love is your soulmate, but mistakes made as a teenager cause everything to crumble. Cue angst, heartbreak, fights and tears. What more could you ask for when it comes to a classic YA Prime Video adaptation?

I sat down with Cowen to dissect what makes Every Year After so intriguing (hint: the strong female gaze plays a big part), why we love seeing men yearn, and whether we will be blessed with Every Year After Season 2. Oh, and I also asked her if Charlie owns a shirt (IYKYK).

Refinery29: I inhaled this series, I binged it all. We’re in an era of book-to-screen adaptations, why do you think people are so obsessed with them right now?

Abigail Cowen: I remember growing up and being a fan of book series. I think that there’s this creativity behind it when you read, you create your own character. Everyone pictures the character differently. Making an adaptation is just so fun to have something that people can see. Plus, the community, like BookTok!I think that it’s so fun to see everyone’s reactions.

Did you read Every Summer After before you auditioned?

AC: I had heard about it. So many people I knew were reading it, but the funny thing is that when I got the audition, it was under a code name, so I had no idea what I was auditioning for. When I found out what the project was, and that I was gonna go in and read with everyone for the role, I started reading the book.

There’s this moment near the end (spoiler alert), where Delilah is making out with a woman. Were you excited to add queer representation to the series?

AC: Of course, yeah! I think that would be a really cool path for Delilah. I think she’s in this place of just finding herself and taking care of herself for the first time, probably in her life and putting herself first. I think she’s on this route of self discovery. I am so down for that storyline. I think that would be great, but I also just really want to see who she is. If there is a second season, I want to see who she is after putting herself first and truly confronting the things that she’s been running from for a really long time.

Will there be a second season?

AC: I hope. I hope you know it really just depends on the fans. I think if we get viewership and people love it as much as we do, then hopefully. I don’t have any information on that, but I’m manifesting.

And there might be some comparisons to The Summer I Turned Pretty because there’s a lake, two brothers and a dead mum called Sue. What do you think of those comparisons?

AC: I love that it’s compared to it, because it brings in the theme of nostalgia and young love, and rekindling and forgiveness, things that we don’t always get in life. I think that it should be compared in a way. But you know, we do have differences in the show. I love that we go kind of deeper into younger storylines, and we get to see these characters throughout their years grow, and you get to really find out why they’re making the decisions that they’re making.

The other show that Prime Video just released is Off Campus. Do you think Every Year After will reach the same levels of success?

AC: I love seeing their success. I think they were filming the same time we were filming, and I actually read that script, and immediately, I was like, people are gonna love this. But yeah, one can only hope. I hope that people, you know, love it as much as we do.

I love that it’s compared to it, because it brings in the theme of nostalgia and young love, and rekindling and forgiveness, things that we don’t always get in life.

Abigail Cowen on Every Year After & The Summer I Turned Pretty Comparisons

I also have to ask about the ice cream scene. What was that like to film?

AC: Bizarre! We couldn’t not laugh, because we had to kind of walk the line of not making it too weird. But it was cute. I love how they ended up portraying it, and you feel that sense of, will they, won’t they? But while we were filming it, we were dying laughing. Also, we had to keep eating the ice cream too, so we all had like a sugar high, and then crashed later on, because you do the scene over and over.

And obviously, it’s full of yearning. Do we need to see more men yearn for women?

AC: Yes, of course! Bring yearning back! That’s what I’ve been saying. Sometimes we focus on the woman yearning for the man. I love seeing the opposite. I think it’s great to see the vulnerability, and the tension, and I think it’s a really beautiful aspect to it.

Also, Carley Fortune was an executive producer on the show, what was it like working with her?

AC: I don’t know how she did it. I have so much respect for her. This is her baby, it was inspired by her teenage diaries, which I relate to. I opened up mine the other day, and I was like, it’s crazy. If I were in her position, I would be a helicopter mum, making sure that everything is perfect, but she entrusted Amy, our showrunner, to put her spin on it. She was just so supportive and amazing. She would come to set and just be encouraging, which is like all you can ask for, especially when doing an adaptation. Getting her thumbs up was the best day of our lives. I adore her. I feel really lucky to be in a female-centred arena.

It’s so important to have love stories told by women, don’t you think?

AC: The female gaze!

It’s a different perspective, isn’t it?

AC: Yeah, it is. And you can tell. I watching it and I said, I can tell that there were women behind this, and I think that’s it’s such a cool thing to be a part of, and to see.

Bring yearning back! That’s what I’ve been saying. Sometimes we focus on the woman yearning for the man. I love seeing the opposite.

Abigail Cowen

Just a silly question to finish off with. Does Charlie not own a shirt?

AC: Does he not own a shirt? Honestly, I asked the same question! There were moments, although, I think fans aren’t gonna complain, you know. But yeah, I asked the same question. I was like, why did he need to be shirtless for this? I think if we get a Season 2, we’re gonna raise that question of does Charlie own a shirt?

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Every Year After Season 1 is now streaming on Prime Video.

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Venus, computer artwork. From June 13th to July 9th, Venus enters Leo , so hang tight. Why? Because Venus insists we are the...

Venus, computer artwork.

From June 13th to July 9th, Venus enters Leo, so hang tight. Why? Because Venus insists we are the main characters in the amorous show we are all players in. The thirst for attention and affection leads us to take on roles we might not otherwise take on. This can resort to lovebombing or declaring grand gestures — some of which we probably cannot uphold due to our personal circumstances and setbacks. However, that doesn’t mean we won’t talk the talk, even though we cannot walk the walk. 

Venus’s stint in Leo is typically a moment of celebration and joy. This year, Venus takes on a different tone. The vibe is more rock and roll than rhythm and blues, with a few tracks of power ballads. For starters, the pre-retrograde shadow of Mercury’s backspin in Cancer begins on June 13th, the same day that Venus enters Leo. It means that Venus’s journey in the fire sign is met with nostalgia, sentimentality — and yes, ambiguity about welcoming exes back into our lives. Mercury’s moonwalk commences on June 29th, lasting until July 23rd, and confusion sets in. Journaling and meditation are two techniques that can aid in our decision-making and in executing our ventures with precision.

A sudden attraction might hit us like lightning, forging a connection with someone who isn’t our type when Uranus in Gemini faces off with Venus in Leo on June 15th. It’ll feel as though the chemistry is instantaneous and electric. If we are in a commitment separate from this flirtation, the temptation to cultivate a relationship with the other person could lead us to contemplate matters. Uranus wants us to be free and embrace our curiosities. When it links up with the planet of love, Venus, we find ourselves drawn to unusual situations and partnerships that rival those of the past. 

The following day, on June 16th, Venus in Leo harmonizes with Neptune in Aries. The planetary alliance offers us the chance to explore our whimsical visions. Getting lost in a fantasy might make us feel like we are floating on a cloud, but reality clashes hard with the daydream, serving up an intense wake-up call. Finding our footing on earth will require grounding exercises, as our passions are profound. The caveat is that we might be overly paranoid about what others are secretly doing or thinking because we are living in our daydreams, hiding our true desires. Projecting emotions onto those we care about won’t solve the dilemma, which is why we shouldn’t make assumptions at this time.

Tensions reach a high on June 17th, when Pluto retrograde in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo. This cosmic polarity creates a magnetic pull among three people (Pluto loves triangulation), causing us to lash out at those who do not see eye to eye with our beliefs. Keep in mind that the third party could be something of a surprise, such as work or a family situation. Therefore, it’s important to keep an open mind and space for ourselves and others. We may revolt against paradoxical dynamics, as we yearn for real-life friendships. The objective is to heal the predicament that exists to cultivate a stronger foundation — not without drama, tears, and frustrations. To survive and thrive, it’s imperative to relinquish the need to control and dominate. 

The karmic planet Saturn, which is in Aries, teaches Venus in Leo a few lessons about affairs of the heart on June 25th. Complications arise when we fight for causes that do not reflect our values. Sticking to our beliefs and ideology at all costs is vital to ensure others properly see us and to represent ourselves. If the person we are crushing on urges us to compromise our core principles, it is a sign that they aren’t the one for us. Being accepted for our individuality and uniqueness is important for Venus in Leo, which is why the hindrance Saturn in Aries brings is problematic, unless we set clear boundaries.

Yes, Venus in Leo will bring challenges, but we will get through these difficult periods and junctures by staying true to who we are. Rather than focusing on what our partners or friends need, give yourself TLC. We deserve to be happy — especially in the face of romantic adversity. 

You can read your June horoscope here.

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After posing for Sports Illustrated at just 18 years old, then working her way up to one of the publication’s leading cover ...

After posing for Sports Illustrated at just 18 years old, then working her way up to one of the publication’s leading cover stars in 2023, Brooks Nader has just walked Sports Illustrated first-ever Hulu-streamed runway show in Miami.

The model and TV personality spoke to Refinery29’s Social Lead Taylor Loren on the big day, explaining: “Sports Illustrated has seen me through every phase of life. I’m 29 now, so they’ve seen me through boyfriends, divorce, breakups, and moves. They’ve cried with me, they’ve laughed with me.”

And after handing out free bikinis alongside her sisters Mary Holland, Grace Ann, and Sarah Jane at their Agua Bendita pop-up truck at Paraiso Miami Swim Week, Brooks actually got to walk the SI runway alongside her sisters. “Just to be here today in year eight and have my whole family who’s watched me on the runway now be walking in the show with me is the biggest pinch me moment. I feel like a proud parent,” she says.

MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – MAY 30: Sarah Jane Nader, Mary Holland Nader, Brooks Nader, Grace Ann Nader attend Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show During Swim Week At W South Beach – Red Carpet/Backstage on May 30, 2026 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Alexander Tamargo/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated)

Known for her ultra-glam looks and unfiltered personality, Nader has become an internet sensation, from her SI shoots to being a contestant on Dancing with The Stars and her Love Thy Nader family reality Hulu series. So, she understands a thing or two about being in the spotlight and having all eyes on her.

“I have to be totally honest with you. I think with the culture of everyone filming everything and being on their phones and paparazzi pics, you can’t really get away with cheating it for a good angle or lighting. People are going to get the shot regardless. So, I’ve mostly given up hope on curated photos, and I just kind of clip the ones I like online,” Nader shares.

However, she’s still game to get a good shot (especially when her sister Sarah Jane is behind the camera) with the help of her Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra phone. “I think it’s all about the lighting and the angles. I love a good mirror selfie,” the Team Galaxy member says, adding: “Confidence is for sure most important. I mean, the Samsung does take amazing photos and that always helps, but confidence is number one. If you feel good, you look good.”

Nader also called out one of her favorite features on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. “I love the circle-to search feature because if you see something you love, you just take a photo, you circle it, and everything pops up online,” she explains, adding: “It’s the most dangerous thing that I have access to right now because I’ll just be like: ‘Oh, love that purse,’ and then it’s in the cart.” (A feature we may just want to use when watching the Sports Illustrated show stream on June 9.)

Speaking on her SI photoshoots and runway walks (during a time when body diversity has severely decreased), Nader says the publication’s editor in chief MJ Day has always championed real bodies. “I’ve gone in for the fitting and then showed up for the shoot and been 20 pounds lighter after crazy dieting. And MJ’s like: ‘Where’d you go? This isn’t who we booked. We want you for you. We don’t want you to change or morph into someone you’re not.’ I think that’s so special.”

For the runway itself, Nader adds: “It’s obviously nerve wracking. Everyone’s watching. They’re getting every little angle of your body, but I would say Sports Illustrated is a brand that embraces all women, and they always have. They were so ahead of the curve, and they did that before any other brand or magazine did that. And that’s why it’s so special to be a part of it because everyone is celebrated with this brand. I feel zero pressure when I’m working with Sports Illustrated.”

On the big night, Nader showed up and showed out in three swimwear looks, but the most notable was perhaps her striking red one-piece — fitting, because she was casted and shot a Baywatch reboot, which is set to release in 2027. When Loren asked Nader if she practiced her slow-mo Baywatch run, the model-turned-actress quickly said: “I’ve been practicing that since I was 10 years old. So when this call came through, I was ready. I’ve been benched and waiting for my entire life.”

In addition to her features on the SI Hulu stream and upcoming Baywatch Fox series, we can probably expect to see Nader back at the Dancing with The Stars stages… this time in the audience. That’s because her truest friend and fellow SI runway model Maura Higgins was announced as one of the first contestants for Season 35.

“I think she’s an ultimate girls’ girl and she’s not afraid to say exactly what she’s thinking or what everyone else is thinking,” Nader says about Higgins. “And she has been so kind and humble along the way. I don’t even think she needs advice. She’s so gorgeous and stunning and I can’t wait to see her crush it.”

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Welcome to Money Diaries where we are tackling the ever-present taboo that is money. We’re asking real people how they spend the...

Welcome to Money Diaries where we are tackling the ever-present taboo that is money. We’re asking real people how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we’re tracking every last dollar.

This week: An insights director working in marketing who makes $108,000 per year and spends some of it on a small copper pot for half price.

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.

This Money Diary was written at the start of 2026.

Occupation: Insights director
Industry: Marketing
Age: 29
Location: Portland, OR
Salary: $108,000 plus holiday bonus (it varies — last year it was $2,500)
Joint Income/Financial Setup: Combined, my boyfriend and I have a joint income of $240,000. But even though we live/own a house together and split shared household expenses, we keep our accounts completely separate. For the down payment and mortgage, we both contribute proportional amounts to our income. We use Splitwise to repay each other whenever else we’re splitting something.
Assets:
Checking: ~$400 (I usually keep the balance around this unless I have a credit card payment coming up. I transfer everything else to savings)
High-Yield Savings: $19,000
Investment Account: $5,025
Roth IRA: $127,730
401(k): $119,865
HSA: $1,500 (just started growing this after having an FSA for many years)
Car (KBB value): ~$10,000 (my half)
House: $228,900 (my portion)
Debt: House: $181,165 (my portion)
Paycheck Amount (every other week): $2,286.64 ($4,115.38 minus taxes, insurance, HSA and 401k contributions)
Pronouns: She/her

Monthly Expenses

Housing Costs: $1,439 (mortgage, property taxes, homeowner insurance, extra $100 towards principle) plus usually ~$250-300 in utilities, depending on time of year (trash/recycling, gas, water, electric, internet)
Loan Payments: $0
Other monthly expenses:
Phone (on a family plan with my mom and sister): $40 ($65/mo. minus $25/mo. work reimbursement)
Car insurance: $63.65 (for my half)
Spotify: $5 (on family plan)
Peloton Digital App: $6.99 (but recently, my credit card has had an offer making it free)
Apple storage: $0.99
Monthly donations: $70 (Planned Parenthood, The Trevor Project, Anti-Cruelty Society, CAWC Chicago)
Streaming services: $0 (I only use services that I get free access to through my credit cards)

Was there an expectation for you to attend higher education? Did you participate in any form of higher education? If yes, how did you pay for it?
I never really understood that there were options other than going to college after high school. It was later in high school that I realized some classmates didn’t plan on going to college. My parents absolutely expected it, but I also wanted to. My parents paid for two thirds (a third each) of my college tuition and expenses, then I was responsible for the last third. I worked several jobs at a time to avoid taking out any loans. I only considered in-state schools to save money, though. For my Master’s degree, I paid for ~30% out of pocket and my company paid for the rest. It was a part-time online program that I could do while still working full-time. Although I had to stay at my company for two years after graduating (which I did), otherwise I would’ve had to pay it back.

Growing up, what kind of conversations did you have about money? Did your parent(s) educate you about finances?
My parents always emphasized saving, so I thought it was fun to deposit money (from birthdays, etc.) into my savings account. I learned to manage my finances on my own in college and always stuck to a strict budget, so I never really needed advice there. Once I got a job after college, my mom helped me set up a Roth IRA and learn about my 401(k). But in recent years, as I’ve wanted to learn more about investing and smart financial decisions, my parents have maxed out their knowledge for financial advice, so I’ve had to learn things on my own now.

What was your first job and why did you get it?
Other than occasional babysitting, my first job was for my small town’s parks and rec department helping with youth soccer camps and summer rec classes. It was right around when I got my license, so I wanted to have gas and spending money, but also because I knew I needed to start saving for college. Most of my small paychecks went into savings. My first full-time jobs were in the summers during college, until I started my actual career post-graduation.

Did you worry about money growing up?
I wouldn’t say I worried about it, but I was always aware of it. My parents divorced when I was one, and with both we lived very frugally and consciously. We didn’t buy brand-name groceries; we shopped at thrift stores for clothes, we took road trips when traveling, and we only went out to eat on birthdays/special occasions. But we always had the necessities and a little more. We’d usually take some sort of trip/vacation in the summer and I played sports most of the year, too.

Do you worry about money now?
I don’t “worry” about money now, but I’m never not conscious of it (force of habit). I feel like I’m in a comfortable place with my current lifestyle and financial goals, but I always worry about how much it will cost to have kids in the future and ultimately retire.

At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and do you have a financial safety net?
I became financially responsible for myself at 22 when I graduated college and have been ever since. I have a savings safety net of my own, but my boyfriend would be my safety net if needed. Otherwise, my parents could provide support if I absolutely needed it, but I don’t really expect that to ever happen.

Do you or have you ever received passive or inherited income? If yes, please explain.
As mentioned above, my parents paid for two thirds of my undergrad, which allowed me to graduate without loans and I am eternally grateful for it. My mom also gave me my grandparents’ old 20-year-old car when I was 25, which lasted me ~three years until it died and my boyfriend and I bought a new one. I also had a college investment account from when I was a baby that I didn’t end up having to tap into (~$20k), so I used this to fund my Roth IRA for a few years. I don’t have any passive or inherited income now.

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Day One: Tuesday

5:45 a.m. — It’s Tuesday today. I wake up and stay in bed too long snuggling with my cat, D. who always seems to settle in as soon as I’m about to get up. I do my usual morning routine: mouthwash, La Roche-Posay cleanser, Belif Aqua Bomb moisturizer, and brush teeth. I toss on my perpetual WFH outfit: leggings and a sweatshirt.

6:30 a.m. — I finally migrate to my home office to start work (technically checking email and messages on my phone starting at 6 a.m.), since I work central hours.

8 a.m. — I take a break to have breakfast. It’s the same every weekday, always: egg wrap with salsa plus chocolate protein oatmeal (and multivitamin gummies). I never get sick of it!

11:30 a.m. — I quickly shovel in my weekly meal-prepped lunch (chicken and broccoli alfredo) before my 12 p.m. meeting. I’m giving an all-company presentation and am trying to also prep and review my notes as I eat.

1 p.m. — Presentation went great and I spend the rest of the workday on different project to-dos while I walk on my walking pad. I call it a day at 2:30 and have clocked a total of 7.8 miles today. Perks of working central hours!

3 p.m. — I have to bring D. to the vet for his annual checkup. My boyfriend, N. helps me trick him into his carrier and D. is furious about it. His appointment only takes 20 minutes and we’re in and out with two quick vaccines, and a stamp of health. It comes to $157.38 in total but N. and I split it. $78.69

4 p.m. — I work out when I get home. We built a full gym in our garage, so we don’t have to pay for (or put up with) public gyms anymore. 10/10 would recommend if you have the space!

5:30 p.m. — Since we bought our house almost a year ago, I’ve been minorly obsessed with home decor and building a space that we really love. But also I hate spending money, so I’m usually at one of the many thrift stores near us one to two times per week shopping! I don’t find much today, but pick up a cute vintage plate and a small copper pot to hang both in our kitchen. The copper pot was supposed to be $6 but the worker said it was one half of a two-piece set, so gave it to me for half price. I’ll take it! $3.99

7 p.m. — Eat dinner and sit down with N. to do some trip planning. We’re planning to go to Italy in August, so we’re trying to finalize flights ASAP. We decide which we’re going to buy but want to give it a few days to see if the price fluctuates at all.

8 p.m. — Surprise! D. throws up all over the floor and then again. We’re not sure if it’s related to the vaccines he got or a hairball situation. After we clean it up, we watch the new A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. It’s no Game of Thrones, but it’s still entertaining!

9 p.m. — Do my nighttime routine — same as morning routine but swap mouthwash for floss. I read my book until I fall asleep. I’m finally reading the Throne of Glass series and I’m on my third one: The Assassin’s Blade. They’re nice easy reads so far. I can see why people like them!

Daily Total: $82.68

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Day Two: Wednesday

5:45 a.m. — Wake up, scroll Instagram, and do the NYT Wordle (every day). I get it in three guesses today and feel very accomplished. Then I do my usual morning routine.

6:30 a.m. — I start “working” but get distracted by looking up some home decor inspo and all of a sudden it’s been an hour and a half.

8 a.m. — Breakfast, same as always. Then a usual morning of project work and meetings.

10 a.m. — D. has now thrown up his breakfast all over our bed, so I toss the comforter in the wash. I call the vet to see if they have any advice, but they tell us that it’s likely just a hairball situation and that he should be fine. Keeping a close eye on him!

12 p.m. — Lunch break with my same meal prep as yesterday. N. also made cookie dough last night so I snack on some (too much) of that, too.

2:30 p.m. — The usual work and meetings until the end of the day. 7.4 miles walked today. Pretty good! As if that wasn’t enough, we have a rare PNW sunny February day, so I go for a long walk before doing my workout at home.

6 p.m. — It’s ‘Curry Week’ right now with deals all around the city, so a friend and I head to an unassuming bar to give it a try and catch up on life, careers, etc. We both get the Japanese curry with chicken katsu and a raspberry lime sour beer. Both are fantastic (and a great deal)! $21.22

9 p.m. — Top off dinner with more cookie dough when I get home. Then nighttime routine and reading more of my book until I fall asleep.

Daily Total: $21.22

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Day Three: Thursday

5:45 a.m. — Usual morning routine: scroll, Wordle, face/teeth, WFH outfit.

8:30 a.m. — Work and meetings until I take a break for breakfast. Then back to more work and meetings until lunchtime.

12:30 p.m. — Same prepped lunch as before, and then I take a little work break to work on a DIY project with some frames that I’ve been needing to finish, since things have slowed down.

2 p.m. — I call it a day early since I’ve already finished all my work for the day. 7.1 miles walked today! Another beautiful day out so N. and I head out for a post-work walk to enjoy the sunshine.

3:30 p.m. — Between sets of my workout, I prep a new dessert recipe I’ve been wanting to try, chocolate banana pudding cake. It comes out tasting delicious, but the texture isn’t quite as pudding-y as I’d hoped… probably due to my loose interpretation of some of the ingredient amounts and instructions. Oops!

6:30 p.m. — Thursdays mean bar trivia with friends. We go every week! We’ve never won, but we always show up and give it our best. We’re 80% there for the vibes: great hosts, cool people, and tasty drinks. It’s a BYO food brewery, so I pack a wrap and veggies to eat and then get a THC seltzer, since I’m usually not much of a drinker. $7

9 p.m. — We come in second to last. Rough night of categories we knew nothing about. But I brought my dessert to share with everyone, so not all bad. Then it’s home, usual nighttime routine, and falling asleep before I even can start reading.

Daily Total: $7

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Day Four: Friday

5:45 a.m. — I made a resolution for the month to spend one day per week without social media and today is going to be that day. I don’t spend a TON of time on social media, but I still think it’s good for my brain to get mini breaks. I’m trying to make this a permanent habit this year. Wordle and then I’m out of bed faster than usual.

8:30 a.m. — Another morning of work and meetings until breakfast. Then back to more “work” (mix of work and home decor researching) until lunchtime.

10 a.m. — We have a season pass for a local ski resort and are planning to go tomorrow. Our ‘beginner’ passes (only learned last year) means we only get access to certain lifts, but we get super cheap rentals. I reserve my skis and pay the small fee. $5

12 p.m. — Lunch break with the last of my meal prep. Then I force myself to do some actual work for a few hours. Plus, I do a little online shopping. Our expensive credit card comes with a quarterly $75 Lululemon credit, so I find a pair of joggers I like and it only costs me $4. Yay perks! $4

2 p.m. — I log off a little early, like I do most Fridays. I also walk some more and end with 7.75 miles today. This is officially my highest milage week (37.5) since I bought my walking pad 1.5 years ago! We always do our grocery runs on Friday afternoons to beat the traffic/rush. First stop is Costco for the bulk stuff: eggs, tortillas, some snacks, frozen chicken, and of course a rotisserie chicken. $82.27

3 p.m. — We also gas up the car. We don’t drive much since neither of us commute, so we usually only have to fill up the tank every other week. (Split with N.) $20.01

3:30 p.m. — Next stop is WinCo for the rest of our groceries. I get lots of fruits and veggies, chicken sausage, chocolate, some frozen veggies, pasta, and other random one-offs. Everything is SO much cheaper than all the other grocery stores, so we’ve saved a lot of money shopping here in the past year. $52.50

5 p.m. — Today’s a rest day so I quickly run to another thrift store instead. After about 45 minutes, I end up getting an iron (been needing one for a while now), a cute wooden candle tray, and a lampshade. $12

7 p.m. — Every Friday night recently has been the same routine for us: Pizza and The Pitt! N., who worked at a pizza restaurant all through college, makes us homemade pizza and we watch the latest episode of The Pitt. It’s a little gory to be enjoying pizza during, but I’m hooked on this show!

9 p.m. — Early bedtime since we’re going skiing tomorrow. Usual routine and some reading until I fall asleep.

Daily Total: $175.78

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Day Five: Saturday

6:30 a.m. — My body naturally wakes up early, so I just scroll and do my Wordle. After 45 minutes, I finally get myself out of bed and get ready for the day. Usual morning routine, including my usual egg wrap for breakfast.

8 a.m. — We’re not eeeeearly morning ski people, but we still try and get there at a reasonable time. The drive is about an hour and a half, so we get on the road. We stop at our favorite no-frills donut shop on the way up and get far too many donuts for just the two of us. I get an apple fritter, a cinnamon maple, and an applesauce donut. All are 10/10 per usual! $5.20

10 a.m. — Pretty good day on the mountain today! It’s not too busy, so we don’t spend much time waiting in lines. The snow is also the best we’ve had yet this season, even if it’s not amazing. Poor Mount Hood has struggled to get snow this year. But we get to try some new runs and are getting more comfortable every time we go. Probably one of the most successful ski days we’ve had since learning!

1 p.m. — We call it a day and eat leftover donuts on the drive home. It’s also the first of the month, so on the way home I pay the mortgage and Venmo my mom for my phone and Spotify. All in my initial expenses.

3 p.m. — I take the afternoon to meal prep my lunches for next week — chicken and veggie stir fry with a peanut sauce.

6 p.m. — We decide to take advantage of curry week before it ends today. We choose a new Indian restaurant at a cool-looking food hall. Despite the incredible and diverse food scene in Portland, we have yet to find a reliable Indian food spot, so we have high hopes but low expectations. I get the Chicken Tikka Masala special and naan, and N. tries another of their curries. Both are tasty and fresh, but not quite good enough to be a regular go-to. The food hall is cute and has tons of other places we want to come back and try, though! (I also pay like $1.50 for parking.) $16

7 p.m. — I also pay for parking while we’re at dinner. $1.35

8 p.m. — I had some pictures printed for the previously mentioned DIY frame project, so we pick those up at CVS on the way home. It’s pictures of our cat D. and our two previous pets (a cat and a dog) for our living room. I’m constantly grappling with how many is too many pictures of D. hung up around the house. I’ve limited myself to three so far, but I’m not making any promises. $4.77

9 p.m. — We make some cookies and watch the new episode of Industry before going to bed early again. Regular nighttime routine, as always.

Daily Total: $27.32

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Day Six: Sunday

7 a.m. — N. is up early and off to do an all-day hike with an outdoor group he’s a part of. I hang out in bed for a while and have a slow start to my day.

8:30 a.m. — I begrudgingly get a workout in and then shower and eat breakfast. I’ve recently been obsessed with toast, cream cheese, plus everything bagel seasoning and eggs. It gives bagel vibes, but with yummy sourdough instead!

11 a.m. — I walk the mile to the thrift store (since N. has the car). I don’t find much but do end up getting a lamp base that I’m hoping works with this big Tiffany-style stained glass lampshade I bought a few months ago. When it get home it sadly doesn’t look right, so I plan on returning the lamp base this week (and refunds are only store credit). I’ll use it eventually! $14.99

1 p.m. — I eat a sandwich and veggies for lunch before spending a few hours organizing and cleaning the house.

4 p.m. — Feeling exhausted, but once N. gets home I take the car to make a Target return and grab a few things I forgot at the grocery store. I hate going back to the store when I forget things, but these are essentials for the week that I need. This is what happens when I don’t make a list! Salsa, giant bag of frozen strawberries, dish soap, and a new dish scrubber (split soap/scrubber with N.). $22.80

5:30 p.m. — I take a half hour to read for a bit, because I need to make some more progress on this book. I’ve only been reading it in small chunks and is taking me forever to finish. Halfway there!

6:30 p.m. — I make us lasagna soup for dinner and we look at flights for Italy again. We finally finalize which ones we want to buy and the airline’s website isn’t letting us! It keeps giving us an error, so we aren’t able to book our tickets tonight. Instead, I have to call tomorrow to see if I can book over the phone, which is very annoying.

8:30 p.m. — We bake cookies again before calling it a night, because a day isn’t complete without dessert.

Daily Total: $37.79

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Day Seven: Monday

5:45 a.m. — Back to the work week routine: scroll, Wordle, morning stuff, WFH outfit.

8 a.m. — After an unproductive morning, I take a breakfast break before my meetings start.

8:30 a.m. — The rest of the morning is filled with meetings and my looming to-do list. Between meetings, I try and figure out the situation with these Italy flights, so I call customer service. As it turns out, they’re not offering these flights anymore and they just haven’t gotten around to taking them off of their website. I’m even more annoyed now. We’re back to square one on looking for flights. We conclude that we’re basically going to have to move the trip up a week to find reasonably priced flights (which will still be more expensive than we planned). Boo!

11:45 a.m. — Quick break for lunch before my noon meeting, which doubles as a venting session with my manager (for both of us)!

2:30 p.m. — I call it a day and have walked another 7.2 miles today.

3:30 p.m. — I do some stretching and then go to a chiropractor appointment. I tweaked my back in December and it hasn’t been able to heal itself, so I finally decided to get it looked at. It’s not better yet, but I’m optimistic that I’ve made some progress at least. I pay with my HSA card (pre-tax $$). $40

4:30 p.m. — Once I get home, I do part of my upper body workout until my back starts to hurt. I head in and lay down to ice my back for a bit while I watch the last episode of Veep. We’re also headed to Salt Lake City this weekend to visit my sister, and we’re planning to go skiing, so I reserve skis for us. (Don’t pay until pickup, so $0 right now). I also look at the new flights we want to buy for Italy.

6:30 p.m. — It’s a friend’s birthday tomorrow, so we meet up for dinner at a food cart pod for a little early celebration. We both get gyros and catch up for a while. $14

8:30 p.m. — N. and I finally decide which new flights we need to buy for our trip, so we decide to book them. I kid you not, as we’re checking out, the flight prices go up. If we would’ve booked five minutes earlier, we would’ve gotten the lower price. This whole process with flights has officially been infuriating. At least we’re not paying cash for these, we use credit card points to book the flights (66k points, which is 5k more points than five minutes ago). So now we’ve had to change the dates of our trip and “pay” more for it. A frustrating way to end the day, to say the least.

Daily Total: $54.00

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Conclusion:
This was a slightly higher spend week than usual for me, since I don’t normally go out to eat or thrift shopping QUITE that much. But otherwise it’s pretty consistent — most of my everyday spend goes to food/drink/groceries with other smaller things sprinkled in. I usually look at my spending by month vs. by week, so as part of my monthly spend, this week keeps me on track with my overall budget goals.

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