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    We Tested This Cult Favorite Sports Bra—Here Are Our Thoughts

    The world is full of recommendations left and right. Whether you’re texting your friends about which restaurant to try for a first date, asking your mom what she thinks of your new hairstyle, or googling the reviews of a new foundation you have your eye on, someone’s first-hand account of something is typically only a few clicks away. But the best recommendations are those that come out of nowhere. When someone is so excited about something that they have to tell you right away, whether you asked for it or not. We really stand by that praise at The Everygirl. Heck, it’s how we’ve found some of our favorite products, from Spanx’s leather leggings to our favorite haircare product Maddie found on a beauty podcast. Today’s story comes from a recommendation from a good friend of ours (perhaps we’ll call her a BFF). After texting about trying some leggings from Aerie, she announced that her favorite sports bra in the world comes from there. I mean, we couldn’t not try them? 
    So, Maddie and I placed an order for Aerie’s Strappy Back sports bra (in different colors because we’re different gals—duh), and here’s how it went. Hint: we both kinda fell in love.

    Maddie

    Finding an amazing sports bra is a bit of an anomaly; I always hear people complaining about their sports bras, but very rarely hear someone compliment one. My biggest challenge with finding a sports bra that I love? Finding that Goldie Locks, juuuuuuuust right amount of support that holds me in but doesn’t leave me feeling like Mulan when Li Shang discovers she’s actually a girl and she’s sitting in the snow with her torso wrapped up to hide that she has boobs (just me?).
    I’m a 34D, which I like to think of borderline-large boobs. Are they objectively big? No, but they’re big enough that holding them in is a concern when I’m working out. My workout of choice is, unfortunately for me, running, which makes finding an amazing sports bra even more difficult because of the level of bouncing around that comes with it. I can honestly say that in my 24 years, I have exactly 0 sports bras that I love, so my loyalty could go to any one that impresses me.
    The second I took this bra out of its package, I knew I was going to like it based on how it felt alone. The material is, to me, a hybrid between cotton and the dry-fit, slippery material a lot of bras come in. It has some padding, which I personally prefer, but not too much by any means. Check and check.
    You know how it’s trendy and cute to wear a sports bra as a top with high-waisted leggings? I’ve never understood how people could do that until I tried this. This bra is right in between being a bra length and a crop-top length, and felt like I could get away with wearing it to a barre or yoga class. It held me in the perfect amount so that I didn’t feel too exposed nor constricted—it fit me, quite literally, perfectly. Plus, with all the criss-crossing straps in the back, it’s cute as all hell.
    After testing this out for workouts, since it’s a medium support bra, it isn’t the best in the world for running, but it’s perfect for barre or pilates or yoga or anything of the like. It’s so comfortable that I want to pick a few more up in different colors to make it my everyday, lounging bra too—something I can’t say for any other sports bra I have with any real amount of support. It hits a completely unique mark for me out of all of the sports bras I’ve ever had—and it’s less than half the price of the ones I own that I like half as much. The hype for this one is absolutely real, and I can’t imagine finding another sports bra I like this much anytime soon. 

    Beth

    Since we started working from home, I’ve been searching high and low for a comfortable bra that didn’t make me look frumpy but was comfortable to wear all day long, and it got bonus points if I could seamlessly transition it to working out during the day. I’d ordered a few here and there, and nothing knocked my socks off. I love Fabletics sports bras, but they have quite a bit of support, so I only really like them for working out. But a bralette is way too little support to work out in. You see my dilemma? 
    When I ordered this bra, I wasn’t really expecting it to be something I could work out in. It looked way too comfortable for that. “More of a bralette than a sports bra” is what I envisioned. But upon receiving it, I immediately changed my tune. Based on the material (which Maddie described loving too), it’s really flattering and sweat-wicking, making it a great workout bra. But it also is comfortable enough to wear just lounging at home. I’m typing up this review wearing the sports bra with a pair of sweatpants, and it’s honestly WFH bliss. But I have plans to work out as soon as I finish this, and I don’t plan to change either. That’s the golden ticket of bra comfort if you ask me.
    For reference, I wear a 38E bra and am currently between wearing an XL and XXL at American Eagle. I ordered the XXL in this, assuming larger was better than smaller, and I’m glad with my choice. The XL would have been much more compressive, and I love this for just hanging around the house even more so than working out (and even then, I’m not a runner or jumper in any way, so I rarely need anything with lots of coverage). 
    I ordered the white color because my current sports bra collection consists of entirely black bras (I like versatility, OK), and I love it so, so much. It’s so cute with every pair of leggings, sweatpants, pajamas, and any other random pair of pants I own. The white isn’t see-through at all, and cups inside the bra don’t cause any nipple outlines or anything of the sort. Basically, you can order this rest assured that you’ll be covered up whether you’re on a run outside, on a Zoom barre class, or just hanging around the apartment with your roommates.

    Other Aerie sports bras we have our eyes on: More

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    8 Fall Pieces I’ve Been Wearing for Years and Will Never Stop

    To be totally cliché, October means my pantry is stocked with pumpkin products from Trader Joe’s, Hocus Pocus is officially on repeat, and it’s still averaging 90 degrees in southern California. I love LA, but it’s a real bummer heading to Starbucks and not even wanting a PSL because it’s too hot for anything but a cold brew. Alas, the fashion show must go on: no matter the temperature outside, there are a few key pieces I have worn on repeat every year, whether freezing in Chicago or overheating in Los Angeles. Here are eight fall pieces so good, I’ve been wearing them for years (sorry in advance for the mirror smudges that won’t leave me alone no matter how often I clean this thing). 
    1. Shearing Moto Jacket

    I’ve had this same jacket for almost five years now, and it is not only the coziest item I own, but it is also probably the edgiest (I don’t do “edge” very often). Whenever I wear it, I immediately feel a lot cooler in style and a lot warmer in temperature (see what I did there?). It’s cozy inside but effortlessly chic on the outside, making it the perfect fall jacket I’ll never stop wearing. 

    2. Cream-Colored Blazer

    Yes, I still have the black blazer I got from Forever 21 before my first big-girl internship, but this cream-colored satiny blazer just feels so much more on-trend. I love pairing it with all-black so it really stands out and updates the look. A lighter-colored blazer will seem like the less obvious choice, but alas, it’s so easy to pair with everything that you’ll be tempted to wear it every single day. 

    3. Trench Coat

    OK, this trench coat might be the item I’ve had the longest and, dare I say, the best purchase I’ve ever made. I first bought it nine years ago (wait, what??) and have worn it almost every season since. However, my favorite season to wear it in is fall. I’m not even sure what scene or movie I’m referencing, but when I put it on, I immediately picture myself as Audrey Hepburn on a crisp autumn day, only with less poise and comfier shoes. Wear with basically any fall outfit because it goes with everything (trust). 

    4. Western Bootie

    I love a good bootie (who doesn’t come September?). I love a good bootie so much that I am usually persuaded to purchase a couple of new pairs every year (though my overflowing shoe closet will try to tell me how much I don’t need them). However, year after year, I subconsciously go back to this western-style bootie. I think it’s a combination of the interesting accents that make it stand out from the average black shoe, or how the western style perfectly contrasts with the preppy blazers and sweaters I live in during the season. Either way, my western-style booties aren’t going anywhere (if you couldn’t tell by the tarnished toe).

    5. Animal-Print Sweater

    Back in my cold Chicago days, this sweater was on work OOTD rotation every week. When it’s chilly and cold outside, all I want to wear is the top that feels most like wearing a blanket without going full Snuggie territory. No one (hopefully) noticed that I chose comfort over style because the eye-catching print looks like it was a conscious fashion decision and not the warmest piece I could get my hands on. I don’t care what anyone says: animal print will always be in-style–especially in cozy knit. 

    6. Plaid Blazer

    As I write this article, I’m learning that all of my work milestones are marked by blazers (is this how Carrie Bradshaw feels?). My mom gifted me this blazer before an internship I had while studying abroad in Paris (if a tailored blazer doesn’t help you overcome imposter syndrome, I don’t know what would). These days, it’s put to use for a more fashionable purpose than impressing my old boss. I love it with light wash jeans for a style contrast that’s perfect for the season. 

    7. Statement Sweaters

    One of my favorite life hacks during fall (maybe this is obvious to everyone, but I’m still going to call it a life hack): the statement sweater. You’ll stay cozy and warm with minimal effort, all while looking picture-perfect for Instagram. Cozy knits with interesting details and elaborate accents are a must-have in any girl’s closet, if for no other reason than tricking people into thinking you put some effort into getting dressed. I have a particular thing for ruffles and statement shoulders, but you can also look for bright colors, bold prints, or pretty tailoring.

    8. Statement Shoe

    Full disclosure: this is only the second fall that I’ve owned these boots, but they deserve an honorable mention, and I’ll tell you why. Like the statement sweater (above), I have had a statement pair of boots every season since I knew what boots were (like, back in the Limited Too days). A couple of years ago, it was OTK boots; the year before that, it was studded boots (I used to be so much edgier); and years before that, they were probably from the Lizzie McGuire x Target line and had sequins. The point is that a statement boot will be your go-to all season long. You can completely transform jeans and a sweater, or keep your summer skirts in rotation while the boots keep legs warm. Win, win, win!

     

    What fall pieces do you wear every year? More

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    I’ve Tried a Lot of Beauty Products This Year, but I Won’t Stop Talking About These

    Instead of your usual intro about how I love beauty products and have tried a lot of products this year (I’d probably tell you it’s part of my job!), I’m just going to cut right to the chase: I love these eight products with my heart and soul, and spending the time to tell you about them was like soup for the soul. After the year we’ve had, we all deserve a little time to sit here and chat about beauty products for a moment. Grab your beverage of choice (I’m drinking hot mint tea right now with a face mask on because sometimes WFH has its perks), maybe a snack, and your wallet—because I’m about to talk you into a few things and I’m not even sorry.

    The Glow Maker: Antioxidant Serum

    This had to be the first product on this list. I’ve written blurb after blurb about this product, and you can read my full review here. This is the first skincare product I’ve actually repurchased more than once, and I’m not even remotely close to being sick of it yet. I love that it works both instantly and over time because I don’t feel guilty when I skip a few days, but I also have noticed that my skin looks better with continued use. I *truly* will not stop telling people about this until they stop making it (Maelove, please never, ever do that). I’ve raved about it so much that even our editor Maddie’s boyfriend bought it—and after a date recently told me I had nice skin (flattery will get you everywhere), I convinced him to try it too. If I can convince a man who uses four-in-one shampoo as a face wash to buy a vitamin C serum, then you know it must be good (or that my powers of persuasion are just extremely high).

    Jeju Volcanic Blackhead Out Balm

    I texted our Graphic Designer Kelly the second I bought this because I was so excited to hopefully try something that would banish my blackheads for good. I used it once and saw a minimal difference, but now that I’ve used it a few more times, it is a godsend. I use it for skin gritting, and it works better than any other oil I’ve ever used. I’ve been using it a few times a week since I got it, and my nose has never looked clearer. If you suffer from blackheads or clogged pores, you’ll want a product like this in your skincare routine. And at less than $10 a pop, you might as well buy one for your BFF too.

    Elysium Naturals Co.
    Whipped Shea Body Butter

    The need for a good moisturizing body product is growing as the days get chillier and chillier, and last summer, I found the best one. This body butter saved me from shaving irritations and flaking sun-exposed skin, and now, it’s at the top of my list to tackle everything that comes with dry, winter skin. I use it on my elbows, knees, and ankles every night before bed, and my skin has never been softer. Plus, the lavender vanilla scent is glorious at bedtime. For the daytime, my favorite scent has been orangesicle—it smells so dreamy, and when I catch a whiff of it while I’m working, it immediately makes me happier. They’re releasing holiday scents soon, and I’ve already saved the money to buy this for everyone I know for Christmas.

    Maybelline
    Falsies Lash Lift Mascara

    I’ve been known to rave about mascaras on occasion. It’s the easiest makeup product that arguably makes the biggest impact—how can I not shout out the best ones?! After testing a lot of high-end formulas, I’m on a journey to find the best options at the drugstore, and I started with this one after I saw it on Allure’s 2020 Best of Beauty list. It immediately made its way into my rotation, topping some of the expensive mascaras I’ve loved for years. It gives so much impact and volume while adding a little length too. It’s the perfect dramatic mascara to wear during the day. I’ve already told all of my friends to buy it on their next Target run, and now I’m telling you!

    Tinted Face Oil Foundation

    This was basically the only foundation I used all summer, and I’m still using it for practically every Zoom call and casual trip to the grocery store. It’s extra glowy, so I always make sure to powder afterward, leaving me with a glowy look that doesn’t get shiny or oily. I apply it on my face straight from the tube, and use either a brush (when I want extra coverage and less glow) or a beauty sponge (less coverage, much glowier). It is so easy to put on when I just need a little something on my face and makes me look alive on Zoom. I would recommend this to anyone looking for an everyday foundation. But heck, I’d be convinced to wear this on my wedding day honestly.

    START HAPPY
    Organic Body Wash

    I’m still working through swapping my daily beauty products for Black-owned alternatives, and body wash felt like the easiest one. I saw this earlier this summer and thought seeing this gorgeous label every morning will make me excited to shower. Little did I know I would fall in love with the product inside too. I had a friend come over recently who saw this in my shower and said it looked “cool” (men are weird), and I went on a 10-minute tangent about how much I love it. This scent is amazing to use for my morning showers, and the peppermint actually cools down my skin, which I love after a sweaty workout. My skin feels clean and soft, and I’m noticing less KP on my arms too which makes this product an ultimate winner.

    Skin Glazing

    As we enter the time of the year that looking glowy isn’t just a given (oh how I miss my summer dew!), I’ve had a lot of my friends ask me for highlighter recommendations. This one from Nabla has been my go-to, especially because they have shades for every skin tone. It’s not filled with shimmers or glitters, so instead of adding a very prominent powder-y finish on the skin, it looks like your skin is naturally glowing. It’s a really fine-milled powder, so it looks better the more you blend it in. It’s the perfect glass skin powder highlight that looks both natural and impactful.

    PATRICK TA
    Major Brow Shaping Wax

    I’ve been embracing my natural brow shape the last few months in an attempt to head to my salon as little as possible (and save money… and achieve the Bella Hadid brow… and because I’m lazy). With that has come unruly brows that absolutely look nothing like a Hadid sister and more like a caveman. I snagged this a few months ago now, and it is, without a doubt, the best brow product I’ve ever tried. It takes a little extra time than your typical gel in the morning, but when you have the time, it’s worth it for that laminated brow look.

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    The Cozy Sherpa Sale You Don’t Want to Miss

    If sherpa and fleece weren’t already one of the best parts of fall, in 2020, their status as our favorite pieces of the seasons have been set in stone.As the temperatures are dropping and we’re preparing to hibernate until spring, we’re stocking up on the coziest pieces possible—from the softest sherpa jackets to the warmest fleece we can find. And some of our favorite (and cutest) ones we’ve found yet this year have come from Abercrombie & Fitch. A sherpa jacket with leather trim? That’s the piece we never knew we needed until now.
    If you haven’t gotten your hands on their famous sherpa or fleece just yet, you’re in luck: this weekend only, their top-selling sherpa and fleece pieces are on sale for their lowest prices yet. Trust us: these are going to sell out quick.

    no code necessary, prices as marked

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    12 Fall Pieces That Are So Chic, They Basically Style Themselves

    So you want to express yourself and look your best, but don’t always have the inspiration or energy to pull off a runway-worthy every day? We get it: styling inventive, Insta-worthy outfits is not always easy. Our trick is finding strategic pieces that are so chic, they’ll look effortlessly fashionable with even jeans and a T-shirt. Some pieces are closet basics, some are of-the-moment trends, but all of these clothing items are so effortlessly chic, you won’t need much else to pull together a killer OOTD. Read on for 12 fall pieces that are so stylish, they basically style themselves:
    1. Cropped Puffer

    A puffer coat is one of the few items that is as functional as it is stylish. Not only will it keep you warm and be versatile enough for any occasion, but all you need for a sporty-chic look that’s more street-style than athleisure-wear is a pair of skinny jeans and booties. Try a cropped version that hits right above the hipbone for extra trend points.

    2. Knee-High Boots

    Ah, knee-high boots: the style that replaced OTK boots to become 2020’s shoe style of the season. Trust me on this one: they’ll look so chic, it won’t matter what you wear them. Try monochrome neutrals so the boots stand out, or just skinny jeans and a sweater. Bottom line, you can’t go wrong; no matter what you wear up top, knee-high boots will steal the show.

    3. Denim Jacket

    And now for a closet basic that you typically reserve for transitional days of spring and colder evenings come summer: a denim jacket can actually look really good in fall too. A light-wash version stands out perfectly against a black sweater and black jeans or trousers (cold-weather staples), resulting in the easiest outfit formula ever and a way to reinvent your denim jacket. Don’t forget your classic booties!

    4. Animal Print Accents

    Will animal print ever get old? The answer, of course, is no. Women have been rocking animal print for decades, and we’re not stopping anytime soon. Specifically, animal-printed accessories completely transform any basic T-shirt and jeans or sweater dress. Try a variety of cow print, leopard print, or snakeskin in all your shoes, purses, and belts. 

    5. Leather Trousers

    Faux leather trousers are all the rage these days, and, while they may look intimidating, they’re incredibly easy to style. Since they’re such a statement piece (without being too “out there”), all they need is a basic long-sleeve tee or sweater and a seamless pair of booties. Throw in some eye-catching accessories if you want, but I guarantee all eyes will be on your stylish trousers. 

    6. Knee-Length Cardigan

    A knee-length cardigan is another piece you probably have in your closet that you might forget is not only cozy, but chic too. The longer hem is a little more elongating and unexpected than a shorter cardigan, so you can pair it with straight-leg denim and a tucked-in tee. You’ll look as cute as you’ll feel cozy. 

    7. Leather Blazer

    Leather is always big come fall, but this year it’s popping up in everything from pants to skirts to blazers, and I am here for it. Opt for a faux leather version that updates any basic jeans and tee to a more trendy and luxe look than your work blazer would (sorry work blazer, we still love you). 

    8. Sherpa Coat

    Maybe it’s staying at home for seven months straight, or maybe the fashion and comfort stars are aligning, but fall’s biggest trends also happen to be the coziest. Exhibit A: the always-chic and warm sherpa coat that literally goes with everything and makes the simplest outfit Instagram-worthy. 

    9. Flare-Leg Denim

    Sorry, mom jeans: there’s a new denim in town. The pants you wore every day of middle school are officially back and better than ever. Think: light-wash, semi-distressed, and slightly oversized throughout the leg. Pair your flare leg jeans with pointed-toe booties and a simple sweater/tee combo up top. 

    10. Belted Shacket

    I’ll be honest: when I first read the word “shacket” on the H&M website, I thought it was a typo. Low and behold, shacket is the crossover between “shirt” and “jacket” that we never knew we needed until now. It can be worn as a shirt with pants or unbuttoned over a tee or sweater, making it two pieces in one. The trendiest versions come with belts for a cinched waist and a defined silhouette.  

    11. Textured Sweaters

    Another basic that’s eye-catching enough to update the most boring outfit is a sweater in ribbed material or chunky knit, and it has the potential to be your go-to item every day until spring. Look for stand-out textures in warm fabrics to wear when you want to look cute, but don’t want to think too hard think about it.

    12. Plaid Trousers

    Plaid is not only reserved for school uniforms and ’90s punk (even though Gwen Stefani rocked it); a standout plaid piece like trousers are comfortable enough to feel like your stay-at-home joggers, but look chic with a basic sweater or tee. Whether you’re relaxing at home, hopping on Zoom meetings, or taking #OOTDs for Instagram, plaid trousers will be your go-to. 

    What’s your favorite piece for fall? More

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    Our 20 Favorite Items From the Shopbop Sale

    There are a lot of things that bring me joy in this life (a fancy overpriced latte, using too much parmesan on my penne alla vodka, and releasing the clasp on my bra after a long day in public), but nothing quite compares to the feeling of getting hit with that “your order has been shipped” email. Sometimes, I even respond with a “thank you, I love you” message back.So, when I heard Shopbop’s Fall Event was in session, I whipped out my laptop with unmatched speed and got to scrolling. If you’ve never shopped at Shopbop, you’re in for a treat. I don’t buy designer pieces often (you know, because I spend so much money on overpriced lattes and parmesan cheese), but when I do, Shopbop welcomes me with open arms. Their hand-picked collection of designer items and investment pieces are a fashion guru’s dream. Our team sifted through all 203 pages of sale items to bring you our 20 favs and trust us… you don’t want to miss it. 
    Now through October 16, get 15% off orders over $200, 20% off orders over $500 , and 25% off orders over $800 with code FALL20!

    use code FALL20

    Source: @shopbop More

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    Don’t Miss It: J.Crew Is Having a Massive 40% off Sale This Weekend

    One day, I’ll put a chastity belt on my credit card in hopes of saving money and hitting “add to cart” a bit less, but today is not that day. “Why is that?” you ask. Well, ladies and gents, I love a good markdown and this weekend, J.Crew is taunting me with 40 percent off of everything. You heard me correctly. But, in the off chance you didn’t, I’ll say it louder for people in the back: J. Crew is having a 40% off sale. Including new arrivals. I’m a sucker for a discount on a good day but the fact that this is happening at J. Crew has me attempting first-time backflips and jumping for joy. For those of us who have been waiting to stock up on investment pieces that will stand the test of time (denim, blazers, suits, cashmere, and more), it’s our time to shine! Keep reading to shop our favorite picks from the promotion and use code SALETIME for 40% off at checkout. 

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

    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