beauty and fashion

Last year, I think it’s safe to say just about every one of us lost a piece of our identity. You don’t realize how much the little things—the coffee shop you stop at on the way to the office, the shirt you wear on the mornings you’re feeling your best—shape us and how we feel every day. And for me, there was no area that I felt this more about in 2020 than my wardrobe.For some, wearing sweats and never putting makeup on is a dream come true, but putting together outfits and getting ready in the morning has always been something that I live for. I get excited on Sunday nights thinking about what I’m going to wear to the office Monday morning, and I never realized just how much it was a part of me until it was taken away. Sure, I followed and wrote about the trends of the year and even invested in a few, but at the end of the day, it was the year of not getting ready—and this year, I’ve vowed to change that. 
I haven’t made a single resolution this year except one: to truly have more fun with my wardrobe—here’s how:

1. Adding more color
It’s no secret that here at The Everygirl, we love neutrals—and hell, so do I. If I’m investing in a new piece for my wardrobe, it’s always safe to choose something neutral that I know I’ll wear for years to come. But this year, I’m done wearing only neutrals. 
Over the past year or so, I’ve gotten into the habit of not investing in a ton of color, but noticed that when I do wear it, it impacts my mood in the best of ways. In all honesty, I don’t need anything else in a neutral color in my wardrobe, so when I do decide to buy new things, they’re going to be in fun colors that make more of a statement than something tan or grey. This year’s color trends are looking like a lot of lavender, pale yellow, and green, and all of those sound like a pretty great place to start.

2. Being more comfortable with feeling uncomfortable
No, I don’t mean I’m going to wear things that aren’t physically comfortable—that’s never the answer. Rather, I’m getting more comfortable wearing the things I might feel a little silly in when I first leave the house. For example, I bought a beret last year (before Emily in Paris, believe it or not), but never wore it because every time I left the house I felt like I was wearing a sign on my back that said “I’m trying too hard.” News flash: the only one who knows how hard you tried is you. For all anyone around you knows, that beret or those boots could be something you wear every single day. The only one thinking about it is you, so it’s time to rid ourselves of feeling self-conscious when we step out of our comfort zones, and instead embrace it as a potential new normal if it’s something you find you feel great in. (Yes, the beret is now a part of my daily outerwear, and no, I don’t think about it anymore.)

3. Stop waiting for an excuse to wear my favorite clothes
It’s easy to fall into a habit of waiting to burn that expensive candle or break out those investment boots until there’s a reason to, and in 2021, I’m saying no more to that. Having a drink on a patio with my friend? Going to run some errands? Both sound like a fantastic excuse to break out my “special” clothes (no, I’m not talking about a ball gown here, but that jacket I love but can never find a reason to wear? Absolutely). Too often I find myself wearing the things I’m most comfortable with or that are on top of my piles of clothes when I am getting dressed, and I’m saying no more to those habits. Know what sounds like a great excuse to wear my leather pants? A regular Tuesday.

4. Mixing patterns
Nothing can make inspiration hit like a good muse, and last year, mine was Astrid Sloan in “The Politician”. Her styling made me stop in my tracks; it mixed bold colors, incorporated tons of accessories, and did a hefty amount of mixing patterns. As I was watching it all, I could think about is how I wanted to start styling my clothes more like that when circumstances allowed—and I’m saying the time is now.
When done right, there’s nothing more effortlessly chic than mixed patterns; although it’s intentional, it looks anything but, and while it’s not something I thought to do in my regular life last year, I’m going to be more intentional about incorporating it into my rotation of outfits this year. In my opinion, the best way to pull it off is by sticking to similar color palettes, but from there, the less thought goes into it, the better.

5. Choosing more out-of-the-box accessories
I’m the first to admit I gravitate toward the gold necklaces and the tried-and-true, years-old sunglasses I wear every day, but what better place to get out of your comfort zone than with accessories?
I’m someone that doesn’t usually buy new accessories unless they’re high-quality and something I know I’m going to wear for years to come, but this year I’m vowing to choose a few trendier ones to incorporate into my daily outfits; my go-to Ray Bans and dainty gold hoops will still be there on days I don’t want things that are wilder, but they’re going to be put on the backburner for things that are fun and different this year. 

6. Switching up my beauty routine
When it comes to makeup, I’m following in the footsteps of our beauty writer, Beth, and being more strategic with pairing my makeup looks with my outfits. It’s easy to wake up every day and choose my outfit carefully, but then apply my makeup the same way I do every single day. I love makeup and beauty trends and scour the aisles of Sephora more than I should, but too often am getting things that I already have in my collection: neutral eyeshadow palettes, soft pink blushes, and the like. This year is the one I’m going to start dabbling in more color on my eyes and lips and less of the neutral browns I’m far too comfortable with. Another place I’m starting? Taking a break from the neutral manicure I’m used to in exchange for more seasonal colors. Makeup washes off at the end of the day, so why not have fun with it?

7. Trying silhouettes I don’t gravitate toward
At my most comfortable, I’m wearing something along the lines of straight-leg jeans, sneakers, a tight shirt, and a jacket. This year, I want to be conscious about trying trends that aren’t something I’d ordinarily gravitate toward. Instead of wearing white sneakers for another day because they’re what are sitting by my door, I want to get more use of the things that I have but don’t wear as frequently because of habit’s sake. More

About a year ago, I caught a glimpse of the back of my head in a fitting room mirror and was absolutely horrified. I’d known my hair wasn’t exactly my best feature; years of box dye, wonky haircuts, and barely taking care of it will do that to you. But I wasn’t prepared for how damaged, dry, and broken my hair looked like, especially in the back. I immediately grabbed my phone and booked a hair appointment, but the real work happened afterward when I finally started taking proper care of my locks.Since then, my hairdresser has commented endlessly on how much healthier my hair looks and feels, but I noticed a major difference when I went through my camera roll and saw how short my hair was in fall 2018 and my big chop in 2019 compared to how it’s looking now in January 2021. But the difference isn’t just about length; my hair has never felt healthier probably in my life. 

Everything You Need to Know About My Hair:
Color-treated blonde
Very fine
Thin from dyes and poor nutrition (I had an eating disorder for eight years)
My diet is pretty balanced; I enjoy a protein-topped salad for lunch most days, but I also eat a heaping bowl of noodles at least three nights a week. I also get at least 80 oz. of water every day, but I try to aim for 128 when I can. (My diet and water intake have only been this great for about five months–the beginning of quarantine, I wasn’t as kind to my body, but I’m working on it!)
My hair will never be down to my waist and thick and luscious; that isn’t my goal. (Only in my dreams!) But healthy, soft, shiny, strong, volumized hair is.

The Steps I Took

1. Eating extra protein
Changing up my diet was one of the biggest proponents, in my opinion, of the major change of my hair. My hair was definitely doing better once I did all of these nine things, but I’ve noticed the biggest difference since I shifted my diet the last six months. I read a few books and articles and spoke to a dietician who finally helped me squash the myths I had about my food intake, particularly how much protein I was eating. I wasn’t getting nearly enough, so I basically doubled how much I was eating prior. Hair is largely made up of protein, so it makes sense why upping your intake would lead to thicker, stronger strands. 
I increased the protein in my diet through eggs, chicken, turkey, peanut butter, avocados, protein powder, broccoli, tuna, oatmeal, and Greek yogurt.
READ: How to Sneak Protein Into Your Meals

2. Olaplex
Everyone sings the praises of Olaplex No. 3, and I do that love product as well, but I’ve noticed the biggest change in my hair since I added No. 6, the leave-in treatment. I use it every single time I wash my hair as a leave-in product. I notice immediately when I don’t use it because my hair looks and feels so much better. The product detangles, prevents flyaways, and leaves my hair smooth and soft, but I’ve experienced the biggest change in using it over time. Just like the No. 3, it’s a bond-builder, meaning it goes into your hair and actually repairs it from the inside out instead of masking the problem like most treatments. 

3. A blunt cut
This might not help everyone, but my hair was so broken off in different parts that I needed a solid haircut to start fresh and even out the lengths of my hair. Starting with a short, blunt cut gave me a clean canvas to keep growing out my hair. Getting off all the dead even made my hair look thicker and healthier, which I’ll take over growing out my long, damaged hair anyway. 

4. Treating my hair like my skin
Ever since I read about adopting a nighttime hair care routine just like you would skincare, I’ve focused on treating my hair just like I do my skin (which is with many, many products, some manifestation, and so much love). This meant I created a routine that I do pretty much every night to keep my hair in check. No matter what, I always brush my hair before bed–no ifs, ands, or buts. This keeps my hair tangle-free while I sleep, causing fewer snags on the pillowcase and less breakage. Plus, it redistributes any oils in my hair that have built up on my roots after a long day. I notice since doing this my hair is much more manageable and so much softer.
Then, I assess if I’ll be washing my hair the next day or not. If I’m washing my hair, I really go in with oils, scalp massages, and moisturizing products to leave on overnight. Not only is it super relaxing, but my hair has benefited from all the extra moisture, especially my scalp. I notice less irritation and my style lasts longer because it’s not overproducing oils to make up for how dry it is. This is my routine:
Brush my hair with a boar bristle brush
Apply aloe vera gel (it’s really calming and soothing on the scalp and sinks in quickly) or an oil to my scalp and massage in for 3-5 minutes
Apply a treatment oil to my ends 
Brush through with a regular brush (I use an old one that I don’t mind getting oils all over)
I also will use any leftover products on my hands from my skincare routine on my hair, such as my hyaluronic acid serum, moisturizer, and oil. My hair needs the moisture too! Once a month, I’ll do my Olaplex No. 3 treatment overnight. 
If I’m not washing my hair, I’ll usually just use a very small amount of oil on the very ends and use a boar bristle brush to pull any of my natural hair oils from my scalp through to my ends. 
Another important part of my nighttime hair routine is never putting it in a bun or ponytail to sleep. Which brings me to …

5. Sleeping with a silk pillowcase
You’ve heard this tip time and time again, but I am here to announce that it is not a farce. We’re not lying when we say it truly makes a difference. Using a satin pillowcase, my hair had fewer tangles and my bedhead wasn’t nearly as intense. But I noticed a major difference when I upgraded to the Slip pillowcase. Because of this, I always keep my hair down at night. The breakage at the back of my hair was largely caused by the friction of my head on the pillow at night (I am a bit of a hard sleeper), as well as ponytails and buns at the back of my head. My breakage there is now largely nonexistent, and I swear it’s because of these two swaps.

6. Investing in my hair color
I gave up box dye after high school, but I still wasn’t getting regular salon treatments, especially in terms of my color. I tried a few different stylists, opting for the cheapest salons I could find to save a buck. When I noticed my hair was in shambles, I researched a salon and stylist who would be the best for my hair, not my wallet. I’m not saying you should spend your whole paycheck on hair color, don’t get me wrong, but if you’re going to invest in all of these products and tools, why not spend a little more on a colorist who will use quality products and tools on your hair? 
Not only does my stylist use as minimal bleach as possible to get my desired look, but after enough time, she’s gotten to know my hair type and texture. She knows my hair won’t ever be thick and luscious like a goddess, but she knows how to fake it. She holds me accountable to regular trims (when there isn’t a pandemic, of course) and treats my hair with tender loving care every time she touches it. It’s a self-care expense for sure, but it’s also kept the health of my hair on the uptrend big time, and for that, it’s worth it.

7. Limiting my dry shampoo use
I have the pandemic to thank for this, but I stopped using dry shampoo like my life depended on it every other day, and the health of my scalp improved ten-fold. Dry shampoo is lovely every now and then, but piling it on my scalp almost daily was destroying my already itchy, irritated scalp. My nighttime hair routine definitely helps keep my oils at bay, but when duty calls, I still reach for dry shampoo sometimes. When I go back to working in an office, I’ll be investing in a few more hats. 

8. Use high-quality heat tools
You can tell me over and over again to give up heat-styling my hair, but it will never, ever happen. I love styling my hair way too much for that. But the one swap I did make was tossing old, crusty, high-heat tools for products that were designed with hair health in mind. It’s the least I could do! Plus, my style looks less frizzy, lasts longer, and overall looks better. My two favorites that help me achieve just about any look: a blow dryer that doesn’t get too hot and doesn’t fry my hair and a curling iron with a titanium barrel and changeable heat settings. 

Kristin Ess
Beach Wave Curling Iron

This is one of the best curling irons I’ve tried, especially at the price point. My curls are never frizzy or dry-looking, and they last a long time. Plus, my hair never looks or feels fried or damaged like other curling irons have in the past.

Cura Professional Digital Ionic Hair Dryer

Since getting bangs, I cannot live without a blow dryer. I have to blow dry my bangs, or else they look disheveled (and not even in a cute 2020 Taylor Swift way). So finding a high-quality blow dryer was at the top of my list last year, and I’ve loved this one. It’s not outrageously priced (one day I’ll experience the luxury that is Dyson… one day!), but it still feels luxe to use and my hair dries quickly. But the best part is that my hair never looks fried, gets tangled, or feels crunchy (my biggest pet peeves with low-quality blow dryers).

My Favorite Products:

Elizavecca
Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment

This is the best deep conditioner I have ever used—and I’ve tried dozens of high-end formulas. I use this once a week, and it leaves my hair smooth, soft, and as virgin-like as I’ve ever seen. You’d think I never went near bleach in my life based on how moisturized my hair feels with this! It’s so affordable too, but that’s simply a bonus for how high quality the product is.

Boar and Nylon Bristle Brush

A celebrity hairstylist once recommended using a boar bristle brush if you have combination hair (dry ends, oily roots—the story of my life) because the bristles help distribute those scalp oils through the rest of your hair evenly. I use this every night before bed, and I notice I can by using less dry shampoo because of it. Total game-changer.

Moroccan Oil
Moroccanoil Treatment

This is the cornerstone of my nighttime hair routine. Oiling up my ends after a long day feels like bliss, especially with this because it smells amazing. I use this as a styling oil, a treatment, an overnight product, and more.

No. 3 Hair Perfector

If you have damaged, color-treated, or relaxed hair, invest in this product and use it once a week, and you’ll watch your hair transform over time. Be warned: this isn’t a deep conditioner, so it won’t give you the best-hair-of-your-life after one use like my above fave. It’s meant to be used over time because it works from the inside out. (And anyone who’s used it can tell you, it works.)

Silk Pillowcase

Is there any other silk pillowcase on the market? I love how easy and accessible this one is. Plus, it’s so pleasant to sleep with. I love that there’s a zipper, so your pillow stays put. It’s the little things.

Bread Beauty Supply
Hair Oil Everyday Gloss

This is a new addition to my routine, and it is so lovely. It’s a little thick for my hair (which I knew going in—it’s supposed to be amazing on thick, textured, coily, and curly hair types, which obviously I do not have) during the day, but it is absolutely divine to put on my hair at night or as a treatment. I also love using the tiniest amount just at the ends to keep them looking fresh on second-day hair.

  More

As everyone slowly is getting back into the grooves of routine and normalcy after the holiday season, I’ve heard countless people say the same thing: they feel like they’re in a bit of a slump going into the new year. At this point, that’s a bit expected. Sure, the excitement and hope of a new year is here, but resolutions and big goals are taking a back seat for most people in exchange for simply surviving, and that makes it easy to feel a bit, well, “meh.” With dark January days and snow and cold, life is feeling boring at best.
A small solution? Bringing some fun to your wardrobe.
Sure, it sounds like a mundane thing to prioritize, but a new piece that adds a bit of life to your day-to-day outfits can bring you confidence quicker than anything. We spent the past year in sweatpants—I say that in 2021, we spice it up a bit. From glorious textures to fun pops of color that are begging for a warm, spring day, these 25 pieces are the perfect investments for your 2021 wardrobe. More

There comes a few times of the year when I, a makeup-obsessed beauty writer, dread putting on makeup, and it’s always the first few weeks of winter. The air is dry, our skin is suffering, and the motivation to put something on that will inevitably suck the life out of my already distressed skin is lacking. But this year, I have these eight tricks up my sleeve to tackle those times: 

1. Glowy Foundation
A really fresh base is the start of a solid makeup routine, especially if you have dry skin. Opt for a foundation with a glowy finish. It won’t get stuck on dry patches or make your skin feel tight after you’ve been wearing it a long time. Plus, it might even help hydrate your skin!

2. Creamy Concealer
In the same vein as a glowy foundation, choose a creamy concealer that blends effortlessly. These will usually have a satin/glowy finish, which makes a radiant foundation perfectly or is gorgeous worn on its own.

3. Light Powder
If you can’t get away without powdering your face for long days, there are powders on the market specifically made for dry skin types. These usually have a very light, finely-milled texture and might have pearls or a glowy finish. When used lightly all over the face or just pinpointed underneath the eyes, your makeup will stay in place without getting cakey and settling into any lines.

4. Cream Blush
To keep the glowy look on your cheeks, a cream blush is a great addition. Not only does this blend seamlessly into foundation and other base products, but a little blush will make your winter skin look alive and bright—even when you feel the opposite. 

5. Blendable Bronzer
If you want to use a cream bronzer, that’s great, but if you like the look of a powder one, just make sure you’re using something with a blendable formula. A bronzer that sticks to dry skin or applies in patches all over the face is a no-go, but these three blend easily with a brush over powder and liquid products. 

6. Liquid Highlighter
Highlighter is a secret weapon in the makeup drawers of those with dry skin. Even when your skin feels like a desert, highlighter makes you look like a glowing, golden goddess. A liquid formula will blend into your other products and will look as natural as possible—while still looking blinding, of course. 

7. Face Mist
Refresh your makeup throughout the day with a glowy mist. These help turn a dehydrated, matte face into a revitalized makeup look in just one step. Don’t look to these to keep your makeup on all day though; instead, these keep your skin looking moisturized. Mist as often as you need to keep your skin from getting that “blah” end-of-the-day feeling.

8. Lip Gloss
When your lips need some seriously help after the weather turns freezing, go for a lip gloss instead of lipstick. Not only is gloss seriously trending, it’s ultra-hydrating and never settles into lines or emphasizes chapped lips. If you really want to hydrate your lips, opt for a creamy formula without any glitters. However, shimmery glosses really plump up your lips too. More

2020 didn’t give us much to go off of, but if there’s one, singular thing it gave us in abundance, it was incredible TV characters.From Emily in Paris to Dash and Lily to Dead to Me, our Netflix queues were filled to the brim with fabulous women, and for me, a girl stuck at home daydreaming of wearing what the characters on my screen were, the fashion that came with it was one of the best parts. After all, when you’re sitting on the couch in sweats that you haven’t changed out of in six months, a beret paired with a colorful jacket is about as insane of a concept as we could imagine.
It’s a brand new year, and we’re saying goodbye to the style boredom of the past year, and hello to new, fun ways to style our clothes—and it’s only fair that we’re turning to our favorite characters for inspiration to start 2021 off on our most stylish foot.

1. Grace Fraser, The Undoing

Sure, you could toss a paper bag on Nicole Kidman and it would be a fashion statement, but The Undoing was as full of out-of-the-box outfit choices as it was suspects for murder. We’re channeling Grace through long, jewel-toned coats and eclectic dresses for winter looks that are anything but boring.

coat / coat (affordable option) / dress / boots / bag

2. Beth, The Queen’s Gambit

Beth and her story came to us toward the end of 2020, but everything about her made her one of the most memorable characters of the entire year—her wardrobe included. Her style gave us the go ahead to take inspiration from ’60s patterns and silhouettes to our 2021 looks. The first look to check off our to-be-worn lists? Her iconic all-white final episode ensemble.

coat / beret / boots / sweater dress

3. Lara Jean, To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before 2

We fell head-over-heels for Lara Jean last year, and when To All The Boys 2 made its rounds in early 2020, we were reminded just why we love her so much. Sure, she’s in high school, but we can take her youthful aesthetic and apply it to our own style too.

sweater / leather mini skirt / sneakers / sunglasses

4. Emily, Emily in Paris

Just when we thought we’d never feel wanderlust again, Emily in Paris came to save the day and give us travels to dream about once we’re able. While her wardrobe was controversial, we can all agree that the girl was fearless with her style, and that’s something we’re trying to emulate throughout the new year.

jacket / dress / beret / boots

5. Mia Warren, Little Fires Everywhere

Mia Warren, played by Kerry Washington, was one of the most underrated characters of 2020 (maybe just because the show coming out feels like it was 100 years ago, but I digress). Her no-bullshit attitude carried into her wardrobe, filled with casual basics paired together effortlessly—the perfect inspiration for slightly elevated work-from-home outfits.

top / jeans / belt / boots More

Your mom has probably told you 1000+ times that “it’s what’s on the inside that counts.” While she meant that your kindness and intellect matter more than how you look (true, mom!), she was also onto a powerful beauty hack. Everything from dull skin to a breakout can reflect what’s going on internally, whether it’s imbalances in the gut or stress and anxiety. Therefore, you can double up on foundation and drown yourself in a $100 serum, but that won’t matter if you’re not prioritizing both what you put on and in your body—and maybe more importantly, how you treat your body.For the other skincare-obsessed and beauty queens out there, this is good news: there are lots of ways to heal the skin and achieve a radiant glow without spending even more $$$ on mists, masks, and eye creams (that won’t even fit into our overflowing beauty cabinets, am I right ladies??). Because you deserve the secret to achieve flawless skin, here are seven ways to boost glow (and not one of them is buying a pricey lotion):

1. Take a supplement
A modern-day beauty routine is not just reserved for the vanity in your bathroom. No, beauty routines are extending into your pantries and refrigerators too. I’m talking about skincare that you can ingest: formulas, pills, and powders that clear skin and boost glow from the inside out. We love Rae Wellness for supplements made with evidence-based, high-quality ingredients at a very affordable price. One of my favorite effective, beauty-boosting products is the Vegan Collagen Capsules, which support your own natural collagen production to renew and restore skin from within. I love it because it’s plant-derived collagen (most collagen brands come from animal products); contains super nutrients like vitamin C, A, B, E, and minerals to support growth; and can easily be taken as a pill with your other vitamins. 
For more beauty supplements that can easily be added into your regular routine, try the Beauty Drops, which contain biotin to support healthy hair, skin, and nails, and the Hydration Drops, which contain an ingestible form of hyaluronic acid (AKA that trendy moisturizing ingredient in all of your serums and face masks). These drops work on a cellular level to boost radiance and hydrate the skin from the inside-out. Add to a smoothie, coffee, or glass of water for a lit-from-within glow that you don’t have to try too hard (or spend a lot of $$$) to get. You’ve been warned: people will ask you what your secret is. 

Source: Danielle Moss

2. Get more sleep
You already know that getting 7-9 hours of (quality) sleep a night is crucial for the entire body to function properly. But if waking up groggy the next day and an increase in sugar cravings doesn’t motivate you to turn off Netflix at a decent hour, maybe your skin health will. Our bodies need sleep for more reasons than just recharging and having dreams about Timothée Chalamet: a lack of sleep can cause inflammation in the body, which can result in inflammation in the organs–including the skin (AKA the largest organ). If you do get enough rest, you can also experience benefits like fewer wrinkles, less puffy eyes, and yes, a more glowing complexion. It brings a whole new meaning to “beauty sleep,” doesn’t it?

Source: @simplytandya

3. Prioritize gut health
The gut-skin connection is real, people. One study showed how the gut microbiome may be connected to acne and irritations, while other studies have found a correlation between gut problems and skin conditions. Call it a gut feeling (get it?), but I think of skin health as a map to what’s going on with my gut; if I have a breakout, I know something might be going on in the digestive system, whether it was eating too much sugar or that I haven’t been getting enough dietary fiber.
“The gut is where we make nutrients, metabolize hormones, detoxify enzymes, neutralize pathogens, and make neurotransmitters,” explained Carla Oates, gut health expert and founder of The Beauty Chef. “It’s super important to get your digestive health in check in order to feel well and, of course, experience clear, glowing skin.” Try these ways to improve your gut by the end of the week. 

4. Eat your fruits and veggies
Just like processed foods might cause breakouts, and eating sugar might cause premature aging (haven’t you heard of “sugar face?“), certain foods can have the reverse effect on skin health. “Since we are what we eat, it’s no surprise that diet and beauty go hand-in-hand,” said McKenzie Jones, RDN, CLT. “Foods that promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle also promote youthful-looking skin and can help keep you looking radiant from the inside, out.” Try foods like avocados, tomatoes, lemons, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and leafy greens for some amazing superfoods that will boost skin glow. For more foods that can improve your complexion, click here. 

Source: @ashbegash

5. Stay hydrated
When I was 13, I read an interview with Gabrielle Union where she said that her flawless skin (which, let’s be real, is Flawless with a capital “F”) is all thanks to drinking multiple gallons of water a day, and no, I have not forgotten it since. Looks like Gabrielle Union was onto something: water is truly a cure-all for every skincare woe. Drinking water moisturizes the skin on a deep, cellular level (can your night cream do that?). Not to get too science-y on you, but skin cells are made of water (just like every other cell in the body). If the skin is not getting a sufficient amount of water, skin cells cannot function properly. Thank you, Gab, for the major beauty hack. Now go refill your water bottles! Bonus hydration points if you add the Hydration Drops.

6. Sweat more often
While it may not help you smell amazing, sweating can help your skin look amazing. That’s right: sitting in a pool of your own sweat (whether it’s from a tough workout class or an infrared sauna) can help clear up your skin and give you a dewy complexion. “When our body temperature rises, our blood vessels dilate,” said Dr. Whitney Bowe, a New York-based dermatologist. “This is called vasodilation, and it increases the flow of blood to our skin. Over the long term, vasodilation has a positive impact on the vasculature that supports our skin, helping to keep our skin looking healthy and youthful.” In other words, your favorite hot yoga class is not only good for your body, but good for your skin. Just make sure to wash your face soon after to avoid breakouts from clogged pores (the act of sweating is beneficial, but dried sweat sitting on your skin for too long is not). 

Source: @cynthialions

7. Keep stress levels low
You already know that chronic stress is bad for you and just isn’t fun, but you can add “boost skin glow” to your list of reasons to take PTO and start a meditation practice. Some studies have found that cortisol (the stress hormone) can lead to clogged pores, while other studies show that stress may negatively affect the skin’s water retention (leading to dryness). Not to mention that stress can also cause anything from rashes to wrinkles. Prioritize stress relief in your life by scheduling more breaks, unplugging more often, and perfecting an unwind routine after work to let go of workday stress. 

This post contains a sponsored inclusion of Rae Wellness, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

When it comes to a put-together look, the clothes are only half the battle. Sure, they’re the bones of what you look like every day, but the thing that can make or break each and every thing you put on? The accessories.Accessories can also be a bit of a blind spot when it comes to choosing what to add to your wardrobe. Trendy jewelry and bags come and go with every season, but they aren’t always the best investment (versus, say, a trendy shirt you know you’ll get use of for the season). Our strategy of choice? Approaching our accessories with a capsule wardrobe mindset, and choosing strategized pieces that we know are versatile, well-made, and that will complement our outfits in the way we need them to.
You don’t need a million accessories to have a well-rounded selection—you just need ones that can be worn in a million different ways. No matter who you are or what you do, these are the only accessories you’ll ever need.

shoulder bagcamera bagclutchbackpackclassic totestatement bagpaperclip necklacegold hoopsdainty necklacepom hatball stud earringsberetcat-eye sunglassesblue-light glassesoversized sunglassesbaseball hatbeltscrunchie

For the office…

To run errands…

On a walking date…

To work from home…

For a winter day out… More

We’ve discussed at length the horrors of 2020—and trust me, getting this year over and done is at the top of my to-do list right now. But when I take a step down memory lane, I realize just how much beauty has shaped my year. I’ll never forget the way applying a hair mask during the workday felt last March, or the way putting on makeup to see my friends for the first time in months made me feel in June. I’ll always remember what it was like making that first hair appointment after months of grown-out roots, and the joy I felt tipping my stylist for the hard work she put in bringing these strands back to life. There was joy and excitement around finding new Black-owned brands to support, and I felt pride in being able to fill my routine with new companies and products that benefited historically-marginalized communities.Although it might seem surprising, beauty products themselves are a reminder of everything that we’ve been through this year. The face masks we tried when we had nothing to do at home, the spot treatments we used when the other face masks broke us out, the eyeshadows we wore to make our eyes the star of the show when you couldn’t see the rest of our faces, the hair treatments we purchased to keep our color intact when we couldn’t see our stylists, the images we Pinned when we thought we wanted quarantine bangs, how we finally tried Baby Foot and retinol and all those products that make you look wild for a few days because we weren’t seeing anyone, the way we welcomed the splurges on the daily essentials like body wash and razors—what the heck, the world was ending! 
The beauty industry, much like fashion and wellness, will never just be products; they’re ways we’ve experimented and shifted and grown throughout time. And because of this, we felt it was necessary to give back to them this year. In honor of the ways beauty has impacted us this year, we pulled together a truly robust list of every beauty favorite from our team and our readers in every category you could possibly think of. As you’re reading this list, you’ll see favorites from our team, suggestions from our readers (some that we love too and others we’re dying to try in 2021), as well as the “hero products” our entire team was obsessed with in 2020. Plus, we’re breaking down the best innovation, the best splurge and budget-finds, the brands we loved, and what we used at our WFH desks all day. Whether you’re a beauty-lover or looking for a new favorite, we hope this list inspires you to think about the way beauty has impacted your 2020. 

Makeup Remover
Face Halo Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
2020 was the year our editors officially said goodbye to makeup wipes, introducing this makeup removing cloth for everything from removing cleansing balms to washing our face after a workout.

Essence/Toner
Laneige Cream Skin Toner and Moisturizer
This innovative toner balances your skin’s pH while leaving it ultra-moisturized. It’s enough of a moisturizer for oily skin and leaves dry skin plump and ready for heavier products.

Cleanser
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
I picked up this squalane cleanser from The Ordinary this summer, and I’ve never looked back. I have super dry skin all year round, and time and time again, I’ve trialed cleansers that have left my face feeling stripped and dry AF. It applies similar to an oil cleanser and leaves my skin feeling smooth and moisturized. It’s super affordable and is now offered in a larger size (150 mL) which I’ll be buying when mine runs out.—Ashley Selleke, Editorial Assistant

Moisturizer
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
After testing basically every product in CeraVe’s line, our editor found this one: the perfect night cream to moisturize, smooth, and balance skin.

Hydrating Serum
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
If there’s one product Evergirl readers are obsessed with, it’s The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid serum—and our editors couldn’t agree more!

Moisturizing Mask
Town and Anchor Golden Masque
We love face masks that we not only feel good putting on our skin, but we feel good buying. This 99 percent naturally derived, vegan, sustainable, and cruelty-free luxurious mask comes from one of our favorite small beauty businesses in Chicago. The Golden Masque (you know it’s luxe when it’s spelled masque!) is a go-to in my beauty cabinet because of the rich antioxidants and essential minerals that stimulate renewal and reduce inflammation for instant brightening and boosted glow. Gentle enough for sensitive skin yet entirely effective, it’s the perfect mask for any skin type.—Josie, Associate Editor

Detoxifying Mask
Rosen Earth Mask
For keeping skin clear and moisturized (two traits you often don’t see in a skincare product), our editor raves up and down about this mask.

Tool
NuFace Mini Facial Toning Device
The tool that took over our editors vanities and wishlists this year, the NuFace is *the* facial toning device on the market that truly makes a difference in the texture, tone, elasticity, and tightness of your skin.

Facial Oil
Biossance 100% Sugarcane Squalane Oil
I love oil products, but this squalane one has been a staple for years. Made of sugarcane, the natural oil is so hydrating that it gives you that dewy French-girl glow without even trying. You can actually use it for your hair, body, or face, but I choose to use it as a more luxurious (yet totally affordable) face oil at night.—Thao Thai, Executive Editor

Lip Balm
Aquaphor Lip Balm Repair Stick
This classic lip balm will always live in our bags—and our hearts. We love this stick version for wearing under a mask!

Brightening Serum
Maelove Glow Maker Serum
You might be living under a rock if you’ve never seen us rave about this serum. If you want glowy skin, this is it—there’s not much else to say.

Retinol Serum
Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum
When I was interested in introducing a retinol into my skincare routine just this year, I found that this product was a good starting point. This gentle serum is perfect for first-time users. I use it about every other night under my moisturizer and definitely have noticed a healthy glow and softness to my skin. As someone who has heard of people breaking out badly when using a retinol, I was worried at first but because it’s not too intense and contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, I never experienced that. I highly recommend this product for beginners!—Keely Geist, Social Media Editor for The Everymom

Sunscreen for Light Skin Tones
EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
Our editors swear by a whole host of EltaMD’s sunscreen line—whether it’s for acne-prone, oily, normal, or dry skin types, there’s a sunscreen in this line for every concern.

Concealer
Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Concealer
I tried a lot of concealers in 2020. When you’re stuck inside for weeks at a time, finding the motivation to apply a full-face of foundation, let alone wear it all day, is simply far-fetched. I began using concealer exclusively most days, which began my quest for the best concealer that I could use under my eyes and all over the face. In a last-ditch effort a month ago, I tried Pat McGrath’s Sublime Skin Perfection concealer, and now I’ll never be without it. It’s so good, I use it as a foundation all over the face pretty much every single day. It’s a lightweight formula with a satin finish that dries down without looking cakey or settling into lines. It’s officially the gold-standard of concealers for me. —Beth, Associate Editor

Blush
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
When we asked our readers their favorite products, we heard an outpour of love for this highly-pigmented cream blush from Selena Gomez’s new line, Rare Beauty.

Highlighter
Vesca Beauty Stargaze Luminous Glow Highlighter
The creamy texture and the glowy pay off with just a touch of product has made this highlighter a front runner for me. I use it on my cheeks, brow bone, and as an eyeshadow. It’s so versatile, and the compact packaging makes it easy to pop into a bag without taking up too much space. —Bianca Lambert, Contributing Editor

Eyeshadow Palette
Colourpop Eyeshadow Palettes
Whether you’re going for a classic neutral eye or changing it up with bright colors, Colourpop has the formula and price to make it happen.

Fenty Beauty
Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Bronzer

A good bronzer is hard to come by, especially in a cream formula. But our editors fell head over heels for this as soon as it released last spring. Available in varying shades to contour and bronze all skin tones, this blends evenly and stays put all day. We couldn’t ask for anything more.
Read our full review!

Mascara
Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara
I must admit: I hate mascara. I hate when it looks clumpy, when it sheds onto your face, and (most of all) when you have to remove it. Thankfully, the Thrive Mascara solves literally all of those problems (and makes me feel, instead, like a mascara lover). It goes on very liquidy (so don’t sneeze!), meaning it doesn’t flake or clump off, but elongates. It makes your lashes look much longer, but then (thankfully) isn’t a pain to take off. When the day is done, I use cleansing oil followed by a gel cleanser, and my eyelashes are back to their clean (short) selves in no time. —Abigail Yonker, Social Media Editor

Eyebrow Pencil
UOMA Beauty BROW-FRO Baby Hair
Eyebrow pencils are not all created equal. This has a variety of shades for all hair colors, and the formula is waxy enough to stay put all day long.

Eyebrow Gel
Patrick Ta Beauty Major Brow Shaping Wax
The bushy, model-esque brow trend finally became available this year in the form of this brow shaping wax. Use with water or setting spray and a spoolie to make your brows look like you just got a brow lift.

Lipstick
Lisa Eldridge True Velvet Lip Color
There is no lipstick on the market that looks like a Lisa Eldridge True Velvet Lip Color. As a veteran makeup artist (for celebs like Dua Lipa and Eva Green) and Youtube tutorial queen, it’s no wonder Eldridge created what is perhaps the best lip product I have ever used. These lipsticks are the softest texture, both gliding on and staying put throughout the day (no drying out or cracking). They are so gorgeously pigmented, it’s like you covered your lips in a bolt of the richest velvet fabric, and the colors range from creamy beiges to the moodiest wines to shocking, saturated pinks. The tubes are gold and heavy—super luxe and worth the price. If I could only wear one lipstick for the rest of my life, this would be it—in the shade Velvet Beauty, the perfect deep, dusty rose. —Kelly Etz, Senior Graphic Designer and Course Director

Tool
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge
There’s nothing this sponge can’t do: apply foundation, blend cream blush and bronzer, pat down concealer and powder, and take away any cakiness. Oh, and it’s under $7.

Shampoo and Conditioner—Medium/Thick Hair
Rahua Hydration Shampoo and Conditioner
I trade out my shampoo and conditioner as often as I change my clothes—flirting with different brands without commitment, trying everything and anything under the sun to find that perfect formula. I bought Rahua on a whim after hearing about the brand for ages on Instagram and in the (web) pages of Into the Gloss. The clean brand is all about healthy hydration, which my hair sorely lacks. I loved both of these so much that I would repurchase—high praise from a shampoo addict bent on trying everything she can. I could tell right out of the shower that my hair was silkier and easier to manage than usual and my blow dry (while still arduous—your girl has a LOT of hair) yielded salon-worthy results. If you’re looking to splurge on your hair, this is your product. —Kelly

Shampoo—Curly/Coily Hair
Curls Blueblurry Bliss Reparative Hair Wash
Readers shared that they love this budget-friendly, Black-owned haircare line for curly/coily hair at Target, suggesting this hair wash for clean, bouncy, moisturized curls.

Shampoo and Conditioner—Curly Hair
DevaCurl Wavy Curls-On-The-Go Kit
Our editor loves how easily this set makes her her wavy/curly hair look good—without any heat styling.

Dry Shampoo
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo
Dare we say it: no dry shampoo on the market compares to this. Readers swear by it for keeping your hair looking clean and healthy but also making it FEEL clean—a conundrum we all struggle with.

Scalp Treatment
Kristin Ess Instant Exfoliating Scalp Scrub
This scalp scrub, from our editors’ favorite budget-friendly line from Kristin Ess, removes build-up, flakes, and dry skin on the scalp, revealing healthier, cleaner hair.

Curl Gel/Cream
Miss Jessie’s Honey Curls Curl Enhancers
Miss Jessie’s Honey Curls has been my go-to gel for almost two years. I used to think that my hair was too kinky for a wash-N-go, but this gel proved me wrong. I love that it not only helps give my curls definition without the crunch, but it keeps my 4-type curls hydrated for days.—Bianca

Hairspray
Authentic Beauty Concept Working Hairspray
A hairspray that tames frizz, dries quickly, and doesn’t make us feel crunchy is hard to come by—until our editor found this one that does it all while being vegan, cruelty-free, and clean.

Tool
Gisou Curling Tool
After struggling with curling irons forever (who hasn’t?!), our editor swears this brings her curls to life for days, leaving them volumized and damage-free.

Leave-In Product
Prose Hair Oil
My beauty queen friend gifted me this gorgeous hair oil, and let me tell you, it could not have come at a better time. My hair was getting brittle from too-few salon visits (thanks, pandemic!) and frosty Midwestern temps, and this hair oil revived those strands right up. It’s customized to my exact needs and smells like a dream. Plus, it lasts forever! —Thao Thai, Executive Editor

Body Wash
Plant Apothecary Start Happy Body Wash
A nice body wash was the luxury we didn’t know we’d need in 2020, but after testing this, we’ll never live without its gorgeous scent and moisturizing texture.

Body Moisturizer
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Crème de Corps
This old favorite moisturizer will always be on our lists for its ability to deeply moisturize the skin without feeling sticky and heavy.

Body Scrub
Tree Hut Tropical Mango Shea Sugar Scrub
With the world coming to halt drastically this year, I was able to make personal care a priority—and in comes Tree Hut’s Exfoliating Body Scrub. This body scrub has been a staple for me since the beginning of the year. It’s affordable, comes in a variety of scents and ingredients based on your needs, and it leaves my skin amazingly smooth, especially after shaving and waxing. I use this scrub at least twice a week all over, and the gentle scrub doesn’t irritate my skin at all. This is the perfect affordable body scrub for soft, smooth skin that I plan to take with me into the new year! —Blair Bedford, Contributing Editor

Deodorant
Kopari Coconut Deodorant
Natural deodorant can be quite a hit or miss, so you have to sing it from the rooftops when you’ve found a good one—like our editors’ have done with this coconut deodorant from Kopari.

Razor and Shave Cream
Flamingo 5-Blade Razor and Foaming Shave Gel
After years of buying the most very basic skincare products from local pharmacies, 2020 was the year I choose to invest in my skin. I’m also very much a sucker for fun packaging, so I started using new products like the Flamingo razor and foam shave gel to enhance my shower routine. I love how silky smooth they make my skin feel and both the razor blade and the foam gel have lasted a lot longer than my others have. It’s the little things, you know?—Leigh Ryan, Junior Graphic Designer

Hand Sanitizer
Megababe Squeaky Clean Hand Sanitizer
I’ve been obsessed with Megababe’s products for a while now (the Thigh Rescue is a literal lifesaver—if you know, you know) but hadn’t tried their hand sanitizer until earlier this year. I found it in-stock on Megababe’s website when all other sanitizers were flying off the shelves, so I ordered a big bottle to try out. Since then, it has become my all-time favorite hand sanitizer—I’ll never go back! Unlike others, its formula includes plant-based alcohol (plus, no parabens, phthalates, or sulfates) to keep your hands feeling soft and moisturized while still killing 99.9 percent of germs. Being able to use sanitizer often without majorly drying out your hands is key, especially this year. And it smells lovely, which we all know cannot be said for every sanitizer out there. Highly recommend! —Julia Poulter, Managing Editor of The Everymom

Hand Cream
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream
Hand cream stopped becoming a luxury and began its tenure as a necessity this year, and we’re loving this inexpensive one that’s ultra-mosturizing without feeling sticky on the hands.

Nail Polish
Olive and June Nail Polish
Our entire team touts these nail polishes as the easiest to apply and best-looking polishes on the market. Plus, their shades are always on trend.

Our Best New Find—the product our editor just couldn’t wait to tell the world about:

Vitamin C Intense Night Cream

The second the temperatures drop below 60 degrees, I get EXTREMELY dry skin. And for some reason (as if 2020 wasn’t bad enough), it has been so much worse this year. In searching for anything that might help hydrate my face, I read a few recommendations that I should incorporate a heavy night cream. So, I went to Ulta’s website, found this one, and decided to try it solely based on the glowing reviews. It not only has helped keep my skin hydrated, but the Vitamin C makes a visible difference in combatting dullness and redness. Every time I use it, my skin feels brighter! I will definitely be repurchasing.—Jessica Welsh, Editorial Assistant

Best Product Innovation—the most genius product on the market this year: 

Wonder Water

L’Oreal’s Wonder Water was by far the most standout hair product I tried this year. The technology it new and innovative; lamallar water is super lightweight and is able to penetrate the hair cuticle, where heavier conditioners can’t. Literally in 10 seconds, it manages to completely smooth out your hair and leave it looking shiny and healthy, without absolutely any weigh-down. It’s also super affordable—I’m so glad L’Oreal released it before any high-end brands did, because I’m able to make it a part of every hair wash. I don’t even remember what my hair was like before this, and I notice a difference each and every time I use it.—Madeline Galassi, Associate Editor
Read Maddie’s full review!

Best Splurge—the product worth the $$$$: 

Kansa Wand—Facial Massage Tool

Face tools come and go in my routine, but using this handmade Kansa Wand always feels special. Each time I use it coupled with a facial oil, my skin glows, which can likely be attributed to the wand’s copper head. Copper is known to help promote natural collagen and elastin production. Not to mention, my jawline —where I carry much of my stress—gets an instant and much-needed release.—Bianca

Best Budget Buy—the product we can’t believe only cost $:

Favorite Black-Owned Brand—the brand we loved supporting this year whose products blew us away:

UOMA Beauty

UOMA Beauty had been on our radar ever since their Say What?! Foundation launch, but after testing the brand further, their products have become must-haves in many of our daily routines. From their brow pencil to their concealer to their lipsticks, we can’t stop raving about their formulas, their packaging, and their brand message. (Little known fact: their founder created the #PullUporShutUp movement to encourage brand owners to share the demographics of who make up their teams!)

Favorite Clean Beauty Brand—the brand we feel good about putting on our skin:

Tower 28 Beauty

After interviewing the founder of Tower 28 Beauty on The Everymom, our team immediately became enamored with the brand and its cool, unique products. They’re made specifically for those with sensitive, eczemic skin, so you don’t have to worry that anything will cause flare-ups or break you out. Our favorite products are their cream blushes and bronzers and their lip glosses—as shown above.

#1 Work-From-Home Essential—the product making working remotely bearable: 

Bybi Beauty
Blueberry Oil Booster

Of all the facial oils out there, this non-toxic option is a unique go-to. It’s made of 100 percent cold-pressed blueberry seed oil, which helps defend skin against blue light damage by absorbing the light before it penetrates the skin. But that’s not all it can do: blueberry seed oil is high in antioxidants and contains ingredients like beta-carotene and omega 3,6 and 9 to fight inflammation, nourish skin, and improve overall radiance. —Josie More