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      I Finally Organized My Closet—Here’s What I’m Ditching vs. Keeping

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      Fun fact about me: I’ve moved 10 times (soon to be 11) in the past nine years. No part of me loves moving… no matter how many times I settle into a new space, I just can’t seem to get the moving process down to a perfect science. To say that it’s one of my least favorite activities is an understatement. But, if there’s one positive to packing up once a year and relocating, it’s having the forced opportunity to come face-to-face with my clothing of “add to carts” past, sort out what I want to keep, donate, or sell, and facepalm myself for not wearing the one item I swore I would get use of upon purchasing.I wouldn’t necessarily describe myself as a hoarder but I will admit that I have plenty of faults when it comes to accumulating pieces in my wardrobe. First being that I am a sucker for a good sale. The limit to the number of times I’ve bought an item for the markdown alone simply does not exist. When I see a red sticker price, I become blind to reality and will overlook what otherwise would be a wardrobe deal breaker for me (i.e., a far-too-large and non-refundable floral dress from Madewell that mocks me every time I sift through my closet). 
      My second fault is holding on to pieces that “might be useful for a costume party.” Oh yes, ladies. I’m talking mesh, sequins, sparkles, and the whole nine yards. And to absolutely no ones’ surprise, these items sit in the back of my wardrobe, take up prime real estate, and wait longingly for the chance to be loved again. 
      And last but not least, I am a creature of habit. I prefer neutrals over color, opt for comfort, and return to my foolproof outfit combinations time and time again. But every so often, I think, “I should step out of my comfort zone.” That’s when I’ll buy something pink (gasp!), purchase a trendy item that “looked really good on that one IG influencer,” or invest in something I saw our fashion editor rock in the office pre-COVID. While there’s nothing “wrong” with the pieces I add in my feeble attempt to be cooler than I actually am, they simply don’t get as much love as the other pieces in my wardrobe.
      Four hours, two dramatic “I cannot go on” breaks, and a couple of sweat droplets later, I accumulated four garbage bags of clothes to donate, sell, and toss depending on their condition. In an effort to live a more minimalist life (and make room for new pieces, of course), here are the items I’m ditching and the ones I’m holding on to for dear life this season:

      Before:

      After:

      Ditching: Right idea, wrong fit

      When the blazer trend came back with a vengeance, I ran to my local H&M and eagerly walked to checkout with three of them draped over my arm. Unfortunately, I missed the mark on these guys in the size department. I bought each to fit like a glove and I’ve learned after a few seasons of styling that I prefer a larger, oversized fit. I’ve added some mediums to my collection which I’m super happy with but, now, my fitted blazers don’t get a lot of attention. 
      Same goes for this plaid, sherpa-lined jacket that I loved when I bought it. I don’t know if I’ve shrunk it over the years or if I’ve just “grown,” but no matter how cute it is, I simply won’t wear it. Feeling like the Michelin Man when I squeeze into it/having limited mobility of my arms is not the move. 

      Ditching: Mesh

      This one doesn’t need much of an explanation. There was a short period of time in college where the trendy girls wore mesh tops/bodysuits with a black bra underneath. I could never work up the courage to actually wear them and, looking back, I am elated that that is the case. Regardless, I’ve been holding on to them for the off chance that I can use them in some kind of costume setting but I’ve firmly decided that if a costume calls for mesh, it’s not the costume for me! If mesh ever decides to rear its head and come back into style (the only shock left of 2020), I’ll reevaluate at that time.

      Ditching: The quarter-zip that’s seen better days

      Alright, I’m not going to lie… this one hurt. This Patagonia sweater has been with me through many trials and tribulations of life. It’s soaked up tears born from a bad breakup, been wine-stained during iconic pizza nights with my pals, and been washed with darks and denim galore in many unforgiving community laundry situations. Given the fact that this sweater was a beautiful shade of ivory at one point in time, I would deem it to be one of the most worn, sad-looking articles of clothing I’ve ever known. I think I’ve only worn it twice in the past year so I think it’s an appropriate time to part ways. Thank you for your service, you will be missed.

      Ditching: The “it was on sale” Madewell dress

      I bought this floral Madewell dress at their end-of-summer sale and there were three things that doomed this purchase from the start: 1) I didn’t need it (I have an impressive amount of floral dresses), 2) I didn’t really even want it, and 3) it was a final sale item. I know how careless that sounds… but a Madewell dress for $25? I couldn’t pass it up. To my demise, it didn’t fit me right and was non-refundable. Classic.

      Ditching: The trendy splurge item I never wore

      When visiting New York City one summer, I found myself in a trendy, overpriced boutique and was talked into this jacket by one of the sales associates. If I told you how much it was, you would probably spit the contents of whatever you’re sipping on all over your computer screen. The price of this jacket was so absurd but, for some reason, that did not stop me from being persuaded that I needed it. The jacket itself is fine, it’s just not my style. I kept promising myself that I would incorporate it into some outfit formula, but in the four years I had it, I just couldn’t seem to pull it off.

      Ditching: The first-time interview clothing that’s so not me

      OK, to be honest, I never liked any of these items from the start. When the time came for post-grad interviews, I needed a ‘fit to impress my potential employers. I walked cluelessly into Ann Taylor at my local mall and let one of the associates dress me (and by that, I mean that I sold my soul to the Devil). I abandoned my personal style to fit a cookie-cutter look of what I thought was a “professional investment” and honestly, I haven’t looked at them since my first interview in 2016. If I need to interview again at any point, I’ll pick up options that can be dressed down and incorporated into my everyday wardrobe.

      Ditching: The “out of my comfort zone” color I swore I’d wear but didn’t

      I’d say that, in life, I have a good sense of who I am as a person… that is until I find myself adding non-neutrals to my shopping cart. I don’t know what it is, but I’ll just never be a “pink” person. But does that stop me from thinking“wow, Jess looks gorg in blush pink, I should give it a try,” and attempting to swerve out of my comfort zone? Of course not! I’ve found that I can still experiment with other colors (burnt oranges, deep blues, and olive greens) without looking in the mirror and feeling like I’m staring at a complete stranger.

      Ditching: Non-versatile graphic tees

      Don’t get it twisted, I love a good graphic tee. But when I say graphic tee, I mean the ones that are oversized, can be tucked in with mom jeans, dressed up with a blazer, and made edgy with a leather jacket. I’m looking disdainfully at you, I-would-die-for-John-B. long sleeve (pictured below). If it didn’t pass the versatile vibe check, I didn’t keep it.

      Ditching: Unforgiving jeans

      I just simply don’t need the negativity of unforgiving jeans in my life. It is my personal opinion that all jeans should have a bit of stretch. Over the past few years, I’ve gained some weight (pandemic stress eating didn’t help my situation, it is what it is) and while most of my jeans still button, this pair is stubborn as hell. If a pair of jeans can’t handle me post-gnocchi at my favorite Italian restaurant, they don’t deserve me at my best. Bye, Felicia.

      Keeping: Oversized blazers

      If I haven’t yet made myself clear, I am obsessed with oversized blazers and I get so much use out of them. I have two right now (black and plaid) and they’re not going anywhere anytime soon. They’ve been the perfect solution to Chicago’s “it’s not cold now but it will be later tonight” woes, will be great for styling business casual outfits we return to office life, and are super trendy with a graphic tee and hoop earrings. 

      Keeping: Loungewear that I’ve worn at least once in the last three months

      I’ve accumulated a lot of loungewear over this past year and I am not mad about it. Staying home during the pandemic has shifted my wardrobe priorities and, right now, my cozy clothes are getting a ton of attention. I’m sure there’ll be a day where I’ll have to sort through and edit out some of my comfy pieces, but thankfully, today is not that day.

      Keeping: Jackets for layering

      Disclaimer: Last year, I had so many bulky jackets that I had no choice but to downsize. At that time, I kept one of each jacket (leather, denim, faux fur, trench, shearling, etc.), so I truly didn’t need to do much organizing in that department this year. Nonetheless, I still did a once-over to see if anything could be sacrificed, but gleefully decided I was happy with my collection as is. 

      Keeping: Chunky knit sweaters

      OK, don’t come for me, but I truly believe there is no such thing as too many sweaters, especially when you live in a climate that threatens sub-zero temps in the wintertime. I kept all of my sweaters with the exception of those that were uncomfortable (yes, they exist) and/or didn’t fit well.

      Keeping: Maxi/midi skirts

      I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: Midi and maxi skirts have changed my life. I’m already phasing them out for this fall (I had a few good runs with a chunky knit sweatshirt + long skirt + sneaker combo) but I am so looking forward to their return when the temps rise again. More

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      You Ask, We Answer: The Best Sherpa Jackets on the Internet

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      There’s rarely a trend that comes around the checks the boxes of being both cute and comfortable. Too often, trends come around that sacrifice our comfort and require a heel blister or being a little too chilly all night to wear.But sherpa jackets? They change everything. For once, the Gods of our wardrobes graced us with a trend that are both appealing to the eye and make us feel no different than if we were sitting on the couch, wrapped up in the blanket that’s been attached to our bodies the past seven months. They’re something you’d actually reach for for comfort’s sake—and that means we need to take advantage of them.
      From the hoodie of our dreams to jackets that will make you feel like a million bucks, we found the best sherpa jackets available—you can thank us later.

      The 2020 standout
      Our office has been swooning over this baby since it got released earlier this fall. It’s the perfect thickness (not too hot, not too cold), is as soft as they come, and has fun leather accents to spice it up a bit. Most importantly? It won’t break the bank and comes in four different colors.

      The Amazon favorite
      There are very few things we love more than an Amazon fashion find, and this top-seller has crazy-good reviews and comes in any color you can dream of. (It also is almost identical to a cult-favorite one that’s over 4x the price—we love a good dupe.)

      The edgy one
      An oversized, moto leather jacket with sherpa lining is the fall investment piece everyone needs. I’ve been shocked every winter since I got mine that it’s warm enough to brave the Chicago winter in (a box anything that’s not a parka rarely checks), and it doesn’t hurt that you feel like a complete badass every time you put it on. 

      The one made for quarantine
      Working from home has its pros and cons, but one pro is that once the temperatures drop, you aren’t going to need to leave the house—and that allows for living in super cozy clothes. I’ve never seen something I want to throw on every morning more—this is begging to be a part of your work-from-home uniform.

      The versatile one
      Madewell brings this jacket back year after year for good reason: it’s one of the most versatile fall jackets you can find. You can dress it up, dress it down, wear it to a pumpkin patch, wear it on a walk with your dog—you’ll never regret having this in your wardrobe.

      The dressy one
      Looking for a jacket that can be worn to the office and holiday parties and everything in between? Look no further. This has “Thanksgiving outfit” written all over it.

      The classic one
      This sherpa is less trendy and more “wardrobe staple.” It’ll look good with everything and never go out of style—and you’ll reach for it year in and year out. More

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      10 Things That Made Our Lives Better This Week

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      OK, everyone, hear me out. I think 2020 has gotten a really bad rap. I, for one, have been less than kind to this year. Every time that I hear an adverse piece of news, find myself picking up my spilled groceries during a monsoon on Michigan Ave., or stub my toe on the corner of my couch, I throw my hands up in the air, look to the sky, and dramatically shout, “2020 is the worst.” There’s no denying that this year is weird to say the least, but a part of me thinks that maybe 2020 doesn’t like what’s happening either. If we drown out all of the hot mess and tune in, I’m sure we’ll find that good things are still happening and beautiful moments are not canceled.
      So, in our attempt to be more positive and present this week, we’re sharing our highlight reel of the things that brought us joy last week. Whether it be a warm latte on a gloomy Tuesday, a cringey new Netflix guilty pleasure, or a FaceTime with an old friend, we’re celebrating the moments (big and small) that brought us joy last week. Cheers to tuning back in and finding happiness in what has been the most *unprecedented* year yet.

      This week I made it a priority to send my friends and family letters to let them know I’m thinking of them during this crazy time. These notecards incorporate beautiful illustrations and typography on the cover of each blank notecard. I bought these from one of my favorite artists this summer and just started using them. Writing letters to some of my favorite people truly brightens my week!

       

      A few weeks back, my family and I went through a hard time as we lost our sweet grandmother who was fighting her battle with cancer. What made my week was that my thoughtful cousin surprised me with this personalized fingerprint necklace. It was so unexpected but appreciated as I will hold it dear to my heart forever. It’s a great gift for those who may have lost a loved one and would like to have a keepsake in remembrance.

       
      PSA, everyone: I’ve done it. I’ve found the best pumpkin banana bread recipe of all time, ever. OK, maybe that is a tad bit dramatic considering that I’m not a baker by anyone’s standards and I haven’t experimented with too many recipes—but wow, this bread was an absolute treat (I’m so sorry, I had to). Not only was it tasty AF, but baking helped me to carve out some “me time” (sans blue light) and gave me the space to blast Folklore/pretend that I was in a dramatic movie where I am the main character. Also, of note, baking the bread made my home smell like the fall oasis of my dreams. 10/10 would recommend.
      READ: Cream Cheese Swirled Pumpkin Bread with Salted Maple Butter

      Overall I would say I’m a big reader, although I always go through phases of reading a bunch and then not reading much at all. I had kind of been in a reading rut for the last few months. However, this week I picked up a thriller in honor of spooky season and devoured it in two days, and now I can’t wait to start reading more again! It’s so lovely to be able to do something at home that doesn’t involve staring at a screen. The book I read was Then She Was Gone, a story of a mother unraveling the details of her daughter’s disappearance years ago. It is full of twists and turns that I never expected—making it the perfect escape for everything going on in the real world.

      Listen. I know. I KNOW. The first episode is hilariously bad. The way being an influencer is portrayed is ridiculous. She wears no less than SEVEN outrageous hats (including two… bucket hats??). But in all honesty, this new Netflix series is exactly what I needed right now. It’s light as a macaron and just as nutritionally sound, but the scenery and the enviable eye candy will take your mind on a blissful escape. Hearing the word “Gabriel” spoken in numerous French accents is charming in the extreme and the actual Gabriel is quite possibly the most attractive man I have ever seen. I also spenakfkfkadfkafkdfkadkfakfakdfakdfakfkasdfkads fkadsfkasdft a lot of the series comparing Emily’s time in Paris to my trip to Paris in which I ended up accidentally ordering 200 euro steak at a four-star restaurant at 2 am that I was way too drunk to remember and having a lot of cheap umbrellas break over my head. It rains not a single time in this entire show so take that as you will.
      WATCH: Emily in Paris
      If you do end up watching and have the same thought process I did (“Her phone case is way over the top. Actually, do I like it?? Wait, maybe I’ll buy it. I guess I’m into it now.”), I’ve done the work for you:

      It’s still hot AF here in LA, but I swear my skin just knows when it’s fall because it gets dry and dull starting on October 1. As an important precaution, I just tried this non-toxic AHA face mask, and it made a huge difference even after one use. For starters, it’s called “Acid Gold” which is the bougiest thing I’ve ever heard and sounds like a skincare treatment Rihanna would do. The non-toxic formula is loaded with a variety of “acids” that definitely sound like they’re going to simultaneously unclog my blackheads and banish dead skin cells. Plus, it contains pumpkin enzymes, which is pretty fitting since anything without “pumpkin” in the title (or ingredients) just isn’t interesting to me RN. Not to mention that besides all the glow-boosting, it contains papaya enzymes to reduce bacteria and sea buckthorn oil to hydrate skin, so that basically takes care of the dryness and pesky cold-weather pimples. Full disclosure, I’ve put on this mask at least three times already this week because it’s just that good. My pumpkin candles are lit, semi-spooky movies are on repeat (Halloweentown High is as scary as I’ll go), but my skin’s back in summer-glow mode, thanks to this mask.

      It’s currently 45 degrees in Chicago, which combined with quarantine, means I’m in full-blown hermit mode. Comfort is key this fall, and this jacket has been giving me life every single day. I’ve been wearing this both as I work from home and every time I leave the house (including a million walks around the block with my dog) and I just throw it on and it’s like smothering myself in a soft, glorious cloud (not to mention it’s super warm). It’s the perfect addition to a 2020 fall wardrobe and will be worth its weight in gold once the temperatures drop even more.

       

      If you read any of my previous stories, you know I deal with chronic anxiety. I feel like I’ve tried every self-care remedy there is. However, I’ve realized if I’m not taking the time to talk with a professional, there is no amount of self-care that can help. I have tried a couple of online therapy options, but my favorite (and the most helpful) has been Better Help. I take an hour each week to talk with my therapist, and I feel grounded. To take what I’m learning in therapy to the next level, I bought Cleo Wade’s, Heart Talk Journal. I love it already! Journaling my feelings before bed with lavender tea helps to calm my busy mind. I think the duo is even helping me sleep better.

      Being able to take the time out to meditate has been a challenge for me recently, but this week, I have been getting back into the rhythm of checking in with myself, and the MyLife app is perfect for that. Every day, I choose how I’m feeling, and the app recommends a few quick 5-10 minute guided meditations to choose from that’s perfect to help me relax and re-center myself. Afterwards, it checks in with you to see how you’re feeling again using cute emojis to track your progress. It’s a quick but effective daily reminder to give myself a break and focus on just me.

      On a busy Friday, I headed to a local shop down the street that sells Korean Beauty on the cheeeeap. Said shop is a major favorite, but while in the shop, I asked the owner what she thinks would work best for my skin: once as oily as a teenage boy who’s entire diet consists of Doritos and frozen pizza, now absurdly dry for no reason at all. She recommended a few products, this among them to help with my clogged pores. You use a little bit of the balm just like you would a cleansing balm, and massage it into the area (I focused on my nose) for 3-5 minutes. The first time I used it, I didn’t really notice a difference. But on a whim, I tried it again last night, and I was aghast at the bits and pieces coming out of my pores. It was the most satisfying experience, to the point that I plan to use this basically every single night this week for the joy of seeing my blackheads literally pop out of my face. Plus, it is so expensive that I feel amazing using it over and over again without worrying that I’m using up something special. All good things from me. If you have blackheads, please buy this and send me all of the pics of what came out of your pores because that is porn to me. More

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      The Everygirl’s Fall 2020 Capsule Wardrobe

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      If you’ve been around here for a while, you already know how keen we are on the concept of capsule wardrobes—a closet full of items that can be mixed and matched with one another for an infinite amount of combinations and a permanent fix to your “I don’t know what to wear today” conundrum.Every year, we like to add a few things to our capsule wardrobes to make them more attuned to that year’s trends—be it a chic new jacket or a pair of boots that can be worn with every pair of pants we own. When you switch your purchasing mentality from buying random pieces to buying things you know will fit in with things you already have, it opens the door to limitless new looks.
      Without further ado, this is The Everygirl’s 2020 Capsule Wardrobe, filled with the tops, pants, jackets, and accessories you’ll wear on repeat until next spring.

      leopard blousepuff-sleeved blousecamel sweaterwhite sweaterchunky cardigangrey sweaterblack coattrench coatknit dresscorduroy pantsmom jeansfaux leather pantsleather jackethoundstooth bomberblazerblack bootiesloaferssneakersknee-high bootsbeige bagtop-handle bag

      7 Ways to Style Your Fall Capsule Wardrobe

      leopard blouse / top-handle bag / black coat / sneakers / mom jeans

      black booties / camel sweater / black coat / faux leather pants / beige bag

      top-handle bag / corduroy pants / sneakers / white sweater / leather jacket

      puff-sleeved blouse / black booties / mom jeans / beige bag / trench coat

      sneakers / blazer / white sweater / faux leather pants / top-handle bag

      corduroy pants / chunky cardigan / top-handle bag / loafers

      sneakers / mom jeans / top-handle bag / houndstooth bomber / grey sweater More

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      Everything I Want to Buy After Binging ‘Emily in Paris’

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      A few months ago, I wrote about my current fashion muse and the joys of having a fictional character that inspires you to get out of your comfort zone with your wardrobe. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it has you throwing your plain, grey sweaters aside and filling your cart up with pieces you never knew you’d touch.To absolutely everyone’s surprise, 2020 just delivered us something we didn’t know we needed, yet another fictional fashion icon: Emily, from Netflix’s new Emily in Paris. Played by the fabulous Lily Collins, as our Graphic Designer Kelly said in our weekly meeting yesterday, “She just makes you want to embrace maximalism.” Not only are her outfits made impeccable by the addition of the backdrop of Paris, but they all have the je ne sai quoi of looking like she effortless threw five different colors and patterns onto her body—and more often than not, topped it off with a wild hat—and they somehow just worked. 
      After binging the series in one weekend (naturally), our carts are full of eclectic, out-of-the-box pieces that are, quite frankly, exactly what we need to get out of our quarantine slumps. Get ready for some bright colors, a lot of prints, and hell, even a beret or two.

      Source: Netflix

      Wool Blend Beret

      Emily rarely leaves her apartment without some form of a hat (often a bucket hat, but I’m choosing to respectfully ignore that), and the standout was, by far and large, her series of berets. I bought a beret last year and wore it endlessly throughout winter, and Emily encouraged me to pick up another one to wear this year. Trust me: it’ll make you forget about your collection of pom hats.

      Knit Houndstooth Cardigan

      A good houndstooth makes an appearance a million times in this show, and this cardigan with gold detailing fits the Parisian-chic bill.

      Source: Netflix

      Arin Bouclé Trench Coat

      One of my favorite looks of the series is a quick scene (where Emily meets Camille, who is also a font of chic style inspo), but the coat is perfection. I haven’t loved a bold coat this much since my J.Crew obsession in 2008, but if I’ve learned anything from “Emily in Paris,” it’s that I should work some bright color back in my wardrobe.

      Jeffrey Campbell
      Bourdin Mary Jane Pump

      Emily basically wears only heels throughout the entire series, which in addition to giving me extreme anxiety because she is indeed wearing them on cobblestone streets, inspired me to be more daring about my footwear choices. These Mary Jane pumps combined with tights, a skirt, and a jacket are the makings of a perfectly Parisian look to wear all winter long.

      Faux Fur Jacket

      Emily’s coats are abundant and all statement-making, and I’d confidently state on the record that nothing is more statement-making than a hot pink fur coat.

      Source: Netflix

      Double Breasted Suit Jacket

      While I’m not going to be trotting out any crop tops to work, I do love the myriad of jackets and blazers Emily tosses over them.

      Silky Scarf

      One of the best parts of Emily’s style is that it feels true to what an American girl would wear in Paris (bonjour berets!), and the scarves are no exception. I love how she pairs them under cardigans and jackets for a silky pop of texture.

      Source: Netflix

      Wool-Blend Shacket

      At Emily’s influencer lunch, she wears a green Chanel jacket that, quite literally, took my breath away. Everything from the tailoring to the color was sheer perfection, and while this jacket is slightly more muted than hers was, the structure and pockets are nearly identical—and you don’t need to shop vintage Chanel to own it.

      Textured-Weave Jacket

      Emily wears a tweed jacket (or 10) throughout the series, and it got me thinking “Why do I have absolutely nothing made out of this incredibly chic material” and googled tweed jackets for hours after. This textured jacket screams Emily—especially paired with a mini skirt and heel.

      Source: Netflix

      Houndstooth Tweed Bomber Jacket

      There are several memorable houndstooth moments throughout the series, and it has completely reignited my love of the fabric. This bomber is the perfect mix of classic and trendy—pair with a bright dress or a complimenting pattern for an Emily-approved look.

      Quilted Chain Bag

      Emily has a series of impeccable Chanel bags to match every outfit, and while we aren’t all on a Chanel budget, we can emulate the classic bags with this (much, much, much) less expensive option. Its quilted details and gold hardware will give you the same feel of classic femininity that Emily’s bag collection gives her.

      Source: Netflix

      Jacquard-Knit Cardigan

      A wild print? That’s what Emily lives for (not to mention that H&M literally styled this with a collared shirt and plaid skirt—which is arguably exactly how she’d wear it).

      Source: Netflix

      Ruffled Cotton Blouse

      I was so into the extraordinarily ruffled shirt Emily dons to hide her outrageous hickey that I immediately bought this top. I can’t wait to pair it with that houndstooth bomber or a classic plaid blazer.

      Collared Pearl Sweater

      One of the most joyous things about this series for me was the excessive amount of statement collars that Emily wore—and what makes a collar a statement more than some pearl embellishments? Emily would approve on all fronts.

      Colburne Colorblock Coziest Textured Yarn Cardigan Sweater

      When I wasn’t busy falling for Gabriel, I was falling for all the cardigans Emily is running around in (the girl changes outfits on this show at the drop of a bucket hat). The color-blocking of this one is perfect. Throw on a scarf and you’re good to go.

        More

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      30 New Arrivals at H&M That Are Going to Sell Out Immediately

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      Yesterday, my coworker Beth—the Kronk to my Yzma, if you will—and I were chatting about the good and bad of fall 2020’s clothes. The good? Lots of super cozy pieces, the rush of boxes arriving to our doorstep. The bad? Since everyone is online shopping, things are selling out—and they’re selling out fast.Exhibit A? H&M. This year, I’ve felt like I can no longer sit and debate buying a piece from there for a week or two—if I want it, I have to get it when I see it, or I’ll probably be out of luck.
      To help you get the chicest possible clothes of fall 2020 (so many pearl details, so many fun collars, so many deep, delicious hues), we’ve rounded up the best new arrivals at H&M that are still fully stocked—get these before they sell out.

        More

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      12 New Beauty Products I’m Shopping at Sephora

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      When I picture the perfect fall day, it goes like this: wake up and close the window because it’s frigid in my apartment; work out; take a shower so hot my skin turns red (do as I say, not as I do); put on a lovely outfit, do my makeup and hair, all while drinking a piping hot coffee; spend a day in the Everygirl office chatting, writing, and listening to Taylor Swift’s entire discography; head home on the train, only after making a pitstop at the giant Michigan Avenue Sephora in Chicago. I’ll roam the aisles, stocking up on new foundation, a fall lip color, and maybe even something special. Perusing the new beauty launches at Sephora is a pastime of mine regardless of the season, but we all know how it goes by now: everything just feels better in fall. Unfortunately, my expectations of those dreamy fall days aren’t exactly met this year, but that isn’t stopping me from staring at the Sephora site every day and contemplating if I actually need to have an emergency fund. Here’s my wishlist—from new skincare finds perfect for the cold weather to holiday-approved eyeshadow and lip combos. 

      Makeup By Mario
      Master Crystal Reflector Highlighter

      If you know anything about makeup, you know Mario Dedivanovic. He’s known for creating some of the most iconic Kim Kardashian looks, making quite the name for himself in the beauty world. He just unveiled his own line (after collabing with KKW Beauty, Anastasia Beverly Hills, and others), and I am beyond excited to see it available at Sephora. The first product that caught my attention was this product. Although it says it’s a highlighter, it’s actually more of an eyeshadow topper you use to add extra sparkle and dimension to a look. This video on his Instagram immediately convinced me—I see myself creating holiday looks galore with this smudged all over my eyes.

      Pat McGrath Labs
      Dark Star Volumizing Mascara

      After years of contemplating the purchase, I recently splurged on my first Pat McGrath eyeshadow palette. It is arguably the most glorious and also the most wild purchase I’ve made in my time, but I am loving it to bits. My next PMGL purchase will likely be this new mascara. I’ve been loving dark, sultry fall eyeshadow looks lately, and those looks crave a deep black, full lash, and this is supposed to give just that. Every promo photo makes the model’s lashes look incredible, adding just enough length and tons of volume without looking clumpy at all.

      Glow Recipe
      Papaya Sorbet Smoothing Enzyme Cleansing Balm

      I’m currently working through two other cleansing balms, but this is next up on my list to purchase once those are out. I’ve loved everything I’ve tried from Glow Recipe (our other editors love their Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask!), and I love the added element of a little bit of exfoliation to this cleansing balm, giving it a little something different than the usual. It’s also a little less expensive than the Tatcha one I’m using right now, so a solid score for my wallet.

      Nécessaire
      The Body Wash

      Nécessaire has been a staple for many of our editors for a while now, but it’s finally at Sephora! This body wash is available in fragrance-free, but I am the most excited to try the sandalwood scent for fall and winter. Body wash doesnt have to be boring, and this one definitely proves it.

      Honey Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer

      A good moisturizer is essential this time of year. I’m currently switching from a lotion to a cream product to accommodate my newfound dry ass skin, and this is at the top of my wishlist. Farmacy uses honey in their products to promote calm, hydrated skin (honey is a humectant, meaning it traps and locks moisture into your skin). This product is marketed to those with normal and dry skin with special emphasis on “distressed” skin, which is a great adjective to describe the clogged pores, congestion, and dry patches currently sitting atop my face.

      Soft Matte Complete Foundation

      Hear me out: after years and years of preaching dewy skin this, glass skin that—heck, I’ll admit I’m even down with dolphin skin—but in fall 2020, I’m honestly kind of embracing matte skin. I watched an Instagram Story of Katie Jane Hughes (my makeup icon) trying this, and it legit looked like velvet on her skin. I loved how she used a matte foundation with lots of skin prep, which made it so she didn’t look dry or flat, and then she bumped it up with dewy cheekbones and a glowy eye look. I love that makeup juxtaposition, but mostly, I just love how flawless it looks. Wearing makeup makes me feel normal and happy right now, so I’m enjoying the extra bit of coverage—something I didn’t think I’d say ever again.

      Fable & Mane
      HoliRoots Pre-wash Hair Treatment Oil

      My skin isn’t just dry on my face anymore; it’s my entire body, including but not limited to: the tops of my toes, under my butt, my cuticles, and of course, my scalp. I’ve been plagued with an irritated scalp for years now (thanks to an allergic reaction that is still ruining my life), so I’m always on the hunt for something that will calm down the redness, reduce flakes and dry spots, and help my hair grow. Fable and Mane is a new brand at Sephora owned and founded by an Indian woman who created the brand with her culture, including Ayurveda, in mind. The products are absolutely gorgeous, and this pre-wash treatment oil is no exception. Containing ashwaghanda, this would be the perfect addition to my oil cleansing hair routine. The reviews are all up-there, saying it works on basically any hair type.

      Rare Beauty
      Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

      While the Rare Beauty buzz might have died down a bit, I’m still on a high after realizing that Selena did not phone it in and actually created a line full of innovative and effective products. I already tried this blush formula, and I want it in every. single. color. First of all, it’s so pigmented, which you can tell was to help cater to all skin tones. Light skin can apply a little bit and blend away, while someone with a darker tone can build it up even further. This makes all of the shades useful on people—something that basically every launch should have. Plus, I love the dewy look it gives my cheeks. I went for the red shade because it’s so bright and fun, and now I need all the neutral shades to wear all fall. Also, that berry shade? Swooooon.

      Bread Beauty Supply
      Hair Oil Everyday Gloss

      I saw this in an Instagram story and immediately gasped at how gorgeous the packaging was and how much I loved the branding of Bread Beauty Supply. I haven’t tried the products, but I am so obsessed with their entire brand already. This is a Black-owned hair line, so the products are mostly aimed at women with textured, coily, and kinky hair types. While their shampoo and deep conditioner aren’t geared toward my hair at all, I’m really intrigued to try this hair gloss. I’ve been loving the glossy/shiny “glass” hair trend this fall, and I think this would take that look to the next level. If you do have curly hair, note this oil is silicone-free, so it’ll keep your curls fresh, soft, and in-tact all day long without weighing it down.

      Saturday Skin
      Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask

      I have really embraced the sleep mask since quarantine began because I can wear them all day long while I work (including through Zoom calls) and no one has a clue. They’re also great for keeping your skin moisturized and plump through the night, which has been necessary for me as I keep my window open (as stated above) so that I’m shivering by the time I wake up. This one caught my eye for a few reasons. For one, Saturday Skin makes such good moisturizing products (I’m a huge fan of their sheet masks and their eye cream!), so I have a strong feeling this would be good. Plus, I’m loving layering up vitamin C products to help target dark spots and keep my skin looking clear and bright. This also has niacinamide and retinol to exfoliate, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of pores.

      Milk Makeup
      Melatonin Overnight Lip Mask

      As the temps get cooler, you can’t live without a good lip mask in your collection. We’re huge fans of the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, but this one from Milk has me rethinking my loyalties. This product contains Melatonin, which is supposed to calm irritation, but it also hydrates, smoothes, and softens the lips for plump, kissable lips the next day. This product is also ultra-clean: fragrance-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, soy-free, paraben-free, vegan, gluten-free, and more, making it a good, clean alternative to the Laneige (or for a solid test run, like I’ll be doing ASAP).

      Sunday Riley
      Pink Drink Firming Resurfacing Essence

      This is currently sold out, but that should tell you just how in-demand this is. Sunday Riley, the powerhouse brand that brought us Good Genes, claims this product will retexturize your skin while keeping your skin’s barrier in tact and nourishing your skin with pre and probiotics. The most intriguing ingredient in the line-up (even though there are tons of really compelling ingredients in this, like peptides, fermented honey, and seawater) is ECGC: an antioxidant found in green tea that fights the negative outcomes of pollution and stress in the skin—something we probably all need. I am dying to get my hands on this essence, especially after reading a slew of positive reviews. More

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      The 5 Timeless Jackets I Wear Every Fall

      by

      Last summer, a few of my coworkers and I were sitting outside having a Happy Hour drink. We started talking about the outfit we pictured everyone in when we weren’t around them—and given how much time we all spend together, it wasn’t hard. Abigail loves a good pair of jeans and some kind of bomber jacket; Kelly is our resident minimalist, always looking chic in put-together basics; Beth loves something colorful and on-trend. When it got to me, Abigail said piped in, “I just picture you in basics and some kind of cool jacket.”I’ve been a jacket fiend for as long as I can remember. Summer has always been my least favorite season to dress for because my beloved jacket collection is out of commission for a few months. Long story short, if I’m investing in something, nine times out of 10, it’s going to be a good jacket—and over time, I’ve found that my strategy has paid off.
      My jacket collection is out and thriving for the season, and I’ve already been reminded of how grateful I am to my past self for investing in some of the ones that I have. These are the five jackets I find myself reaching for every time fall comes around, time and time and time again. The biggest problem? Deciding which to wear.

      1. Leather Moto Jacket

      No matter who you are or where you live, a leather jacket is a wardrobe staple. When the temperatures are cold, I wear mine multiple times a week, and they’re one of the first things I reach for once the weather allows. Finding one that you love is the key, and these are the best I’ve come across:

      Life Changer Moto Jacket

      A few years ago, I got my hands on this jacket during the Nordstrom sale for something around $50. I wore it to death—and still do because of the gold hardware it has (something that’s borderline impossible to find in a leather jacket). Of all of the affordable leather jackets I’ve had, this is hands-down the best.

      Faux Leather Moto Jacket

      This is a cult-favorite faux-leather option that has crazy good reviews (and comes in multiple colors).

      Dalby Leather Biker Jacket

      After wearing my BLANKNYC jacket every other day for years in a row, I decided to take the plunge and invest in this bad boy. It’s an investment (although it does occasionally go on sale), and I haven’t regretted it for a single second since. It is, in my opinion, the perfect leather jacket, and I know I’ll have it for years and years to come. It’s also currently 20% off!

       

      2. Suede Moto Jacket

      A suede jacket serves a slightly different purpose to me than my leather one, but I reach for it just as much, and choosing between the two would be a real Sophie’s choice for me. Pairing a tan, suede jacket with deep burgundy shades and emerald and even just a crisp white gives an autumnal feel that nothing else can bring.

      Vital Signs Suede Moto Jacket

      This was another Nordstrom sale find for me that has paid off in spades. There’s just something about a tan jacket that delivers fall vibes in a way nothing else can. It looks amazing with sweaters of all colors and fits and pairs well with basically anything you style it with.

       

      3. Classic Blazer

      After seasons of blazers being around, they’ve gone from trendy to just being a wardrobe staple. You can get one in basically any color or pattern or fabric, but my personal favorite is my good ole’ plaid one. They’re impossibly chic and can be styled for everything from the office to after-work drinks (you know, socially-distanced).

      Patterned Jacket

      H&M adjusts their blazer prints slightly from year to year, but this one is two years old, and I still reach for it more than my much more expensive options.

      4. Shearling Jacket

      Shearling is the trend all of us needed: it makes you feel simultaneously like Cruella DeVille (the best-dressed villain of all time, you can quote me on that) and is as warm and as cozy as a piece of clothing can come.

      Faux Shearling Jacket

      I got this jacket on a whim two years ago and can’t believe A. How much I find myself reaching for it, and B. That every year, it’s still in style. It is so warm—I can get away with wearing it as a real winter coat, even here in Chicago—and I love how it can edge up a pair of jeans and sweater.

       
      5. Teddy Coat

      There’s nothing a teddy coat can’t do; it’ll warm you up, elevate anything else you put on your body, and feel like a hug that your Bumble dates can’t give you because of COVID-19. There are a million different colors and cuts to choose from, but I’m partial to a longer option that can be my wear-everywhere jacket before it gets to tundra temps.

      Faux Fur Teddy Coat

      This is perfect for the in-between weather where it isn’t quite time for your parka, but it’s too cold to wear anything lighter. More