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    23 Drugstore Beauty Products With a Cult Following

    If there’s one good thing that came out of 2020 for me, it’s my newfound passion for skincare. While staying at home this year, I’ve become slightly obsessed with watching TikToks and Youtube videos describing the best skincare products and practices—and which ones to avoid at all costs (I’m looking at you, apricot scrubs!).One of my favorite content creators, @skincarebyhyram on TikTok, has over 5.9 million followers and has made a name for himself by reacting to celebs’ skincare routines and calling out brands with harmful ingredients. After bingeing his videos (he also has a Youtube channel) and doing my own research, I overhauled my skincare routine to include only the best ingredients and realized that taking care of your skin really does not have to expensive! 
    I have also really enjoyed trying new makeup and hair products while staying at home, especially when they come at an affordable price. I’ve always appreciated drugstore beauty, but in recent months I’ve realized that there are endless amounts of great affordable products out there that people simply swear by. 
    Here are 23 drugstore beauty products that have tens of thousands of five-star reviews and a huge fanbase: 

    Renewing SA Cleanser

    All of CeraVe’s cleansers are extremely popular, but this relatively new one is gaining traction quickly. It’s specifically formulated for problem skin and aims to smooth any unwanted texture.

    Daily Moisturizing Cream

    If you have sensitive skin or any sort of skin condition, this is the lotion for you. It’s incredibly moisturizing, without being too greasy or heavy.

    SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water

    Micellar water is the most gentle (yet still effective) way to remove makeup, and I won’t use anything else. Also, this plus reusable cotton pads are a much more environmentally-friendly alternative to makeup wipes!

    Shea Moisture
    Clarifying Mud Mask

    This clarifying mask is awesome for when your skin needs a little extra love. The value is amazing, because this tub is huge—so you get tons of uses!

    The Ordinary
    Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

    The Ordinary made a name for itself with affordability, transparency, and effectiveness. I would say this product is the one I see the most in skincare routines and favorites videos.

    Gentle Skin Cleanser

    I know so many people who swear by this cleanser and won’t use anything else. As the name implies, it’s gentle and great for sensitive skin.

    The Honey Pot
    Sensitive Feminine Wash

    This feminine wash is plant-derived and all-natural, as opposed to other options on the market that may have harmful ingredients. In addition, it has thousands of glowing reviews on Target’s website! More

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    Last Day: Don’t Miss Out On The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

    Truth be told, sales are my time to shine. I screenshot way too many trends and statement pieces on Instagram to be able to indulge in all of them (because, oops, I already spent my budget on iced lattes and Postmates). Therefore, I wait all year to buy athleticwear, fall jackets, winter accessories, quality basics, and of-the-moment trends until the moment that’s finally upon us: the Nordstrom Sale. The prices (and items) are so good, my closet is about 90 percent Nordstrom Sale steals (and the other 10 percent is probably gifts from my mom). This year, it’s broken down based on Nordstrom Card status (what you spend in a year). The opening dates are as follows:
    August 4: Icon access (cardholders that spend $15,000+ per year)
    August 7: Ambassador access (cardholders that spend $5,000+ per year)
    August 10: Influencer access (cardholders that spend $2,000+ per year)
    August 13: Insider access (all Nordstrom cardholders)
    August 19: Public access 
    The sale will run through Sunday, August 30th.
    Sure, hunting for deals is fun, but you know what’s even more fun? Scoring discounts that someone else already scoured for you (I’m all about big reward for less effort). So here’s our early Christmas present/late Christmas-in-August present for you, our faithful readers. Shop all the best items at the Nordstrom Sale below, and prepare for that post-shopping high after you get everything you want for a fraction of the price. 

    LOUNGING

    SHOES WE LOVE

    CLOSET STAPLES

    COATS

    ACCESSORIES

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    6 Brands I’ve Bought From and Loved This Year

    Buying from a new brand can be a little scary if you’ve never tried anything from them before. Maybe their shipping takes a while, or they have a wonky return policy. There’s so much research involved that it seems easier to just buy from the companies you already know and trust. But some of the best items come from brands you’ve maybe never heard of or tried. A few months ago, I vowed to start focusing more on small businesses, especially those owned by BIPOC. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll still buy clothes from H&M, and I’ll never stop shopping at Sephora, but I wanted to see what I could snag from brands that weren’t so big. These are just a selection of the brands I’ve tried recently, why I love them, and my favorite pieces.

    If you’re an eyeshadow lover, it’s likely you’ve heard of Coloured Raine. Their eyeshadow formula is regarded as one of the best because it’s highly pigmented and impactful. They went into Target stores about two years ago, and I’ve been a fan ever since. I recently just purchased a new palette from them, and I have become the meme of the woman who brings a plastic chair to the mailbox to wait for her package. They also have liquid lipsticks and complexion products that I’m dying to get my hands on. Those colors! 

     

    Maelove had been on my radar for a long time, but it wasn’t until I saw their Glow Maker serum described as the better dupe to a Skinceuticals $166 serum all over Reddit that I wanted to try it. I’ve never been consistent with my skincare routine, and this was one of the first skincare products I ever repurchased. I just notice such a difference in my skin when I do and don’t use this product. It adds just the right amount of glow to my combination skin without looking oily or feeling uncomfortable. Plus, I’ve noticed a long-term difference in the pigmentation of my acne scars. The pictures in this story I think really do it justice (I mean, my glow? Give me a break). Watch out for this in many editor empties to come!

     

    I know I said I was talking about small brands, but I’d be lying if I said the majority of my wardrobe doesn’t come from Target at this point. And if supporting small, sustainable businesses isn’t in your budget or you’re plus-size (hello, me!), I don’t see anything wrong with doing what you can, and Target is a favorite. I love that they sell basically everything in an XXL (fits a 16/18), but if I need to size up, a lot of their in-house brands sell plus too. My current favorite for spring and summer has been their Wild Fable brand. Everything is trendy and cute, but the price tag is exactly what I want to pay for those types of pieces. In the spring, I got gorgeous bright-colored sweaters, and I’ve bought a few dresses from this line this summer as well. And don’t worry that you’re getting poor quality since the prices are so good. Some of these prices rival clothes I own from way more expensive brands.

     

    Although CBD was the “it” wellness trend of 2019, it’s become an absolute staple in the mess that is 2020. I’ve noticed the biggest difference in my stress levels, sleep, and chronic pain since I started using Equilibria CBD this year. Everyone’s dosing is different, so I love that Equilibria offers free consultations with a dosing specialist to discuss what will be the best regimen for you. When we originally talked, my main concern was addressing the pain I get with my endometriosis, but a few months later, I spoke with her about needing a little extra help regulating my mood and daily anxiety (a classic tale for many this year, I’m sure). I began taking the Daily Drops twice a day—once in the morning, once at night—along with the Relief Cream and Mindful Soak as needed. I’m obsessed with the Mint Flavored Daily Drops—they actually taste good, and I love mixing them with coffee or my morning smoothie! I even love my Daily Drops as a face serum to help reduce inflammation and redness after using harsh acid exfoliators. Basically, the options with this product are endless.
    Equilibria is a small business based in Chicago (love!) cofounded by two women who wanted to make a product for women. At the core of Equilibria, you can tell they wanted to help women, especially that they market their CBD as good for period cramps, pelvic pain, and more. I have fallen in love with their mission almost as much as I love the products!
    Use coupon code “theeverygirl” for 20 percent off your first order! 

    Equilibria
    Brilliance Box

    The best starter box for someone new to CBD.
    Use coupon code “theeverygirl” for 20 percent off your first order! 

    Equilibria
    Mindful Mineral Soak

    Use coupon code “theeverygirl” for 20 percent off your first order! 

    I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: candles are sometimes considered a beauty product, and for the sake of this article, I am in agreeance. Boy Smells is a small, independently-owned candle line made in Los Angeles I’ve absolutely fallen in love with over the last six months. I snagged Cedar Stack from their Pride collection in which a portion of proceeds go to The Trevor Project. I let it sit on my credenza for about three weeks waiting to burn it because it was just so pretty. The yellow color brightened up my apartment, and the Boy Smells branding is on point. But I finally lit the candle the other day (a little Monday treat), and I fell in love and immediately ordered more. The throw is fantastic—I could smell the candle throughout my entire apartment (not that it’s very big, LOL). I have really grown to love higher-end candles because I love how the scents are layered. This isn’t all hot, sexy man; there’s a hint of sweetness. This candle is so unique, and I can’t think of a single person who wouldn’t love the scent.

    Boy Smells
    Slow Burn Scented Candle

    I’ve never seen a review in which someone said they didn’t love this scent. It was formulated in collaboration with Kasey Musgraves!

     

    I have to really give this one to Katie Sturino of The12ishStyle. Katie (I’m a huge fan of her and Megababe, and it does make it better that she’s an Everygirl too!) does a series on her Instagram sharing how things fit on her size 18 body, and she did one all about thongs. I have always struggled with finding good underwear as a plus-size person. Nothing is wide enough, giving me a major front wedgie at all times. Plus, everything rolls down the second I bend over or honestly even more. She gave really high marks to Parade’s underwear, and I ordered two pairs right away. 
    First of all, the ordering experience was really easy and quick. I love that everything is shown on plus-size models too, so I didn’t have to wonder how something would look on me. I also love that everything comes in plus. There are a lot of brands that offer plus now, but it’s only for select items, which is honestly annoying as all hell. I liked that I could order anything I wanted from their site. They also have a ton of options: High-Rise Thong, High-Cut Thong, Briefs, Cheeky, High-Rise Cheeky, and Boyshorts. Everyone has a different preference for their underwear (I’m a big High-Rise Cheeky girl), so there’s something for everyone. I also love that these are comfortable but also sexy. I’m a big lingerie-wearer, and I feel like I can wear these just as much to be sexy with a partner as I do to go to the grocery store in a pair of jeans. They pass every plus-size underwear test in my book.

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    25 Items We Love That Are Still Available at the Nordstrom Sale

    Nordstrom’s annual Anniversary Sale can feel like an Olympic sport—staying up refreshing your computer until midnight to get the things you want, the adrenalin rush when you finally check out and score the pieces you were dreaming of. But the not-so-fun part? When everything on your wish list is sold out before you can get your hands on it.This year’s Anniversary Sale went a little different, with different levels of cardmembers getting access before others. But just because some of the things you had your eye on are no longer available doesn’t mean you can’t still get some of the best items of the sale. From our office’s go-to faux leather jacket (yes, we have all shown up wearing it on the same day) to boots you’ll wear for years to come to cult-favorite beauty products, here are the pieces we love that are still fully stocked at the Nordstrom Sale.  More

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    The Best Transitional Pieces From H&M

    I’d argue that there’s no season that the general population rushes toward more than fall. Once July comes to a close, it feels like fall could pop up and wrap us in its chilly, glorious arms any second—but really, that’s hardly the case.The weeks leading up until it’s officially parka season are crucial; there’s only so much time we have to head outside wearing jeans and a light jacket, so we need to do it when it’s possible. To make the most of the season, transitional clothes are here to save the day. From airy but fall-appropriate dresses to jackets made for temps in the high 60s, these are the best transitional fall pieces from H&M.

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    Target’s Opalhouse Collection Is a Bohemian Dream

    If I’m being honest, a large majority of the home decor and furniture pieces in my little studio apartment are thrifted—ya girl is balling on a budget, OK? However, when I do shop for home decor, there is one place I look to more than anywhere else: Target. I could wander the home decor section of Target (with my mask on, of course) for hours and not get bored. It gives me a burst of serotonin that few other things do. Target has a few main home decor lines, and all are truly amazing. Some people love Chip and Joanna’s Hearth & Hand collection, some are fans of the classic nature of Threshold, and some look for the sleek modernity of Project 62. For me, however, I find myself buying from and drooling over one line over and over again: Opalhouse. It’s bohemian and colorful yet still rooted in neutrals and full of texture. 
    There are a ton of amazing pieces in the Opalhouse collection right now, so scroll on for the items that you’re going to want to add to your cart ASAP:

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    If You Love Meghan Markle’s Style, Here’s What to Buy For Fall

    In a pre-COVID world, we could get style inspiration from celebrities every single day. Shots of their street style and event looks would bombard us day in and day out, leaving us with endless style ideas–but now? Now we’re left with the mere ideas of them.Luckily for us, some celebrity’s signature styles are engrained in our minds, and one of our favorites is—to no one’s surprise—Meghan Markle. We’ve been raving about her classic style since she stepped onto the scene, and while we might not know exactly what she’s wearing for fall 2020, well, we can make some pretty good educated guesses.
    If you’re a fan of Meghan Markle’s style, these fall fashion picks are screaming your name:

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    10 Fall Pieces You Can Wear Even While It’s Still Hot Outside

    Even though we’re starting to rush-order fall candles, make every pumpkin recipe we can find, and dream of cozy knits, the weather doesn’t always get the memo. We appreciate the last of the warm weather (especially since we’ll be in bulky coats and snow boots in a matter of months), but the heat can definitely harsh our fashion mellow. We’re dying to start dressing like Blair Waldorf on the first day of Constance Billard School for Girls, but it’s still 80 degrees, and plaid jackets or cozy sweaters will make us sweat way too much.Not to worry: there are some key fall pieces you can invest in now to perfectly transition from warmer weather into the chilly, cozy temps we’ve been waiting for. Here are 10 fall pieces you can start wearing right now, and how to transition them into the next season.

    1. A blazer
    Source: Fashion Jackson

    A good blazer is as essential to fall as PSLs and a Hocus Pocus marathon, but it can also work for warmer weather with a pair of cut-off denim shorts and sandals. The trick when it’s so hot that a blazer with a minidress or cut-offs feels too hot? Pair with a crop top or drape over your shoulders. 

    2. A silk midi skirt
    Source: @kateogata

    What can’t silk midi skirts do!? Not only are they a favorite in summer, but they’re appropriate for fall too. When the temperatures start to drop, throw on a denim jacket, sweatshirt, or cozy knit for an outfit formula you’ll want to wear for months. PS they also happen to go with booties just as well as they go with sandals in the summer. 

    3. Booties
    Source: Not Your Standard

    Yes, you can rock fall’s favorite shoe with a summer dress or denim shorts. Everyone needs a high-quality pair of booties, so if you’ve been looking for a sign to splurge on that classic pair you’ve been lusting after, this is it. After all, you can wear them the day they arrive in the mail through the first snowfall of the year.

    4. A crisp button-up
    Source: @theyusufs

    A crisp button-up is a staple for autumn because it pairs well with everything from plaid skirts to jewel-toned jackets. Make it work when it’s above 80 degrees by rolling up the sleeves or even tying the ends in a knot for a more cropped look. Make like a fashion girl and go oversized for an I-woke-up-like-this vibe. 

    5. A plaid mini dress
    Source: @ashbegash

    The go-to fall dress you’d rock with tights (à la Blair Waldorf) works just as well on its own while it’s still hot outside. Wear with that chic pair of booties you’ve been dying to wear since last fall, or get more wear out of your favorite summer shoes for perfect in-between-seasons style. 

    6. Dark florals
    Source: Style MBA

    Florals for spring may not be groundbreaking, but florals for fall? Now that’s something Miranda Priestly would get behind. While floral print is traditionally in-style during warmer months, darker, romantic florals have a cold-weather vibe, making standout pieces in vampy hues and big floral prints the perfect trend to work for both summer and fall. 

    7. A knit tank
    Source: @gabrielegz

    It’s like a seasonally appropriate version of the top you’ve been wearing all summer, except you can easily transition it into colder days with a long-sleeve tee underneath or a jacket over. Bonus: a knit tank is my favorite way to fake the look of a sweater-under-blazer look without the extra bulk, making this piece work just as well for warm days as it will for cold. 

    8. A long-sleeve maxi dress
    Source: @waityouneedthis

    Sleeveless dresses might have been your go-to during summer months, but fall begs for long-sleeve varieties. Luckily for our transitional wardrobe (and how freaking hot September can get), dresses are breezy enough to keep us cool when it’s warm, but perfectly transition into colder temperatures. Simply trade in your sandals for booties and throw on a jacket. 

    9. Leather leggings
    Source: @theplussizedprep

    If leggings weren’t a year-round essential before 2020, they are now. Update the athleticwear you’ve been wearing everyday since March to one of our favorite wardrobe pieces: luxe leather leggings. While it’s still warm, pair with tees and lightweight button-ups. Come fall, a cozy knit and leather leggings is going to be the chic stay-at-home uniform you’ll be wearing until spring. 

    10. A thin sweater
    Source: @hillaurenn

    If you’re like me and freeze whenever you’re in air conditioning (no matter how hot it is outside), you know that a thin sweater is a must-have in summer too. Replace a casual sweatshirt for a luxe lightweight knit during outdoor workouts, or pair with shorts while it’s not cold enough for pants. Come fall, it will be your go-to wardrobe essential to layer under any outerwear and pair with pants, trousers, or skirts. 

    What’s your favorite fall piece? More