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      15 Affordable Amazon Finds That Look Expensive AF

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      2020 was a disappointing year for a multitude of reasons but, for me, the cherry on top was blindly hopping into the passenger seat of my sister’s car and absolutely crushing my designer sunglasses. As I picked up the pieces and stared back at my distorted reflection in the shattered lens, I (once again) muttered to myself, “This is why we can’t have nice things.” After that rather humbling experience and a quick evaluation of my current financial status, I decided that searching for dupes and affordable items that look expensive would be my new vocation.I dismally hopped on Amazon to find a replacement, perked up at the surprisingly chic selection, and added a pair to my cart that seemed on-trend, sturdy, and well-rated. And, my friends, let me tell you: I get more compliments on my $12.99 Amazon sunglasses than I ever did on my costly designer pair. There’s nothing more satisfying or flattering than getting recognition for items that you scored on a budget and, for that reason, I’ll be snatching up all of these inexpensive Amazon fashion finds that look pricey AF. More

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      7 Things That Are Worth Investing in (and What Isn’t Worth the Money)

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      When it comes to my wardrobe, I tend to lean toward buying items that are well-made and that will last versus taking frequent trips to the mall for items I don’t want to wear in six months. I’ve been a fashion consumer ever since age 9, when I demanded that I get the neon bikini that stole my heart at Kohl’s department store. Since then, I have gone on many shopping journeys at all price points, and I am here to share some of my wisdom with those that might not feel like natural-born shoppers. Let me help you spend in the right places and save where you can. Hopefully my years of buyer’s remorse will assist you in your next big investment. 

      1. Handbags 
      I bought my first designer handbag at 26, and I’ve gotten a new one every year or so. That is a luxury, I realize, and one that I work hard for. Handbags (saying purse is reserved for the 85+ crowd) can make an outfit. They can Cinderella you from a plain Jane look to an iconic classic style. I’ve found that designer brands retain their value, especially if you keep them in good condition. I haven’t been the person to get the ‘safe’ black bag, and instead gravitate toward colors that make me happy.
      The key is making sure to take care of them, especially if reselling is an option you’re thinking about. I save reselling for trendy bags (like my Gucci belt bag) to wear for a season then sell before the trend loses steam on a site like The Real Real. But something like my patent blue Chanel bag that you would think would get old, I still wear all the time and keep in good condition. If you’re looking to get a designer handbag of your own, getting them second-hand at a vintage store or online via the Real Real is a great start. If you want to keep your bag in good condition, I recommend storing it in its dust pouch. Saving the tags and the box are also bonus points for reselling! 

      2. Jewelry 
      High-quality jewelry also retains its resale value! In my experience, I’ve been able to sell old jewels for 60 percent the original value I paid for it. My Cartier wedding band from my first marriage? SOLD IT! With inscription for most of the original cost. My Tiffany necklace I got for graduation? Same thing. I find that “fine” jewelry, no matter who the designer, will retain value over the years, and you can even rework it to fit your changing life. I took my diamond earrings I got when I was 25 and added them to a ring. I have sold gold necklaces that I got for special moments and then taken that cash and bought something I love. It’s tempting to spend your money on trendy jewelry you’ll wear a few times then get sick of, but I’m telling you, saving that extra money to get something you wear all the time is worth it!

      3. A good blazer 
      If you are looking for a basic that will last for life, you will get a lot of mileage out of a high-quality black blazer (I recommend this Henning blazer!). When you compare blazers, pay attention to fit and cut. I’ve found cheap, fast-fashion blazers are made with low-quality fabrics that lay weird, and wear poorly over time. A nice blazer that is durable and fits great will last a lifetime!

       

      4. Outerwear 
      I love a classic coat, and I feel like outerwear is definitely worth an investment. A cheap coat will pill, get worn out quickly, and doesn’t always have a great cut. You can never go wrong with a long coat in a color that goes with everything (like camel or black) so why not get one that will last a lifetime?

      5. A bra 
      Many people wear a bra every single day of their life. If you’re spending $12 on a bra, chances are you have to replace it a few times a year. Save yourself that anguish and put in some extra money up front on a bra that won’t fall apart after a few months of wear, and will most likely make a difference in your daily comfort. 

        
      6. A dermatologist 
      Alright hear me out: you can spend hundreds of dollars trying to figure out what skincare works for you, but if you take the time to see a dermatologist (use your insurance!) and get skincare advice from an expert on what your skin needs, avoiding the trial-and-error period and getting right into the products that work for you. Also, you should be seeing one every year to get skin cancer checks anyway. I started getting Botox injections in my face at age 28, as often as I could afford (which was sometimes once a year) but I have found that it has been a long-term program I am happy with. Going to a good derm doesn’t necessarily mean needles, but it might be a prescription retinol that can make a real difference. 

      7. Furniture 
      Last but not least: Invest in a real couch. I’ve gone through so many cheap couches in my day, and they do not hold up—and it’s such a big item to waste! A good couch can last you decades (and become a family heirloom in the process) so don’t be afraid to invest. You can also buy a name-brand couch used for a fraction of the retail price. Just focus on finding a style you love that you can recover throughout the years so it can change as your style does.

       

      1. Cashmere 
      You don’t have to splurge on cashmere! I’ve found that regardless of where I get cashmere, it ages the same way. There’s no need to go all out on it, I love J.Crew for ‘affordable’ cashmere.

       
       
      2. Wallets 
      Investing in a designer wallet is a no from me! Even though a wallet is the lowest price point for designer items, nobody really sees your wallet, and it always gets dirty. I say just bank the cash you’d use to buy the wallet and put it toward a nice bag. 

      3. Shoes 
      Shoes get dirty and will inevitably show their wear over time, which is why I’m against spending major money on shoes. Even if you really love them and you want to wear the crap out of them, there are so many mid-range priced shoes that are great quality. I think in this case, it’s better get a pair of $200 boots (rather than a $50 pair you’ll have to replace every year after they fall apart) knowing you’ll take them to the cobbler in six or so years, rather than getting $900+ boots and having to do the same thing. 

      4. Jeans 
      There have been so many innovations in denim and I really think that mass brands can make a pretty good-looking jean—no need to splurge! To extend the life of your jeans, make sure to wash them inside out and don’t put them in the dryer. Some of my favorite jeans are from Good American, Universal Standard, Madewell, and Old Navy. 

       

      5. Mascara 
      I’ve tried them all. All of them. And truly, they are basically the same at every price point. Yes, some are better than others, but I have found the drug store brands carry ones that are just as good as that $68 designer mascara. One of my favorites is Covergirl Lash Blast mascara.  

       

      6. Designer swimsuits 
      A designer suit can make you feel fancy, but the truth is that most of them are not made for exposure to salt, chlorine, or sunscreen. (Really, it’s on the label!) Pretty rough to have fun in the sun when you can’t really participate in any of the fun. I think there are plenty of chic swimsuit brands that have a designer vibe without the price tag or fussiness. J.Crew, Swimsuits for All, Lands End, and Madewell all offer great selections, without breaking the bank.  More

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      6 Things I’m Buying Now to Wear Later

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      A few weeks ago, when I was basking in the glory of the concept of a brand new year, something switched in me. I looked at my sweaters and leggings I’d been wearing on repeat for the past 10 months, and I decided it was time for—for lack of a better term—a bit of a rebrand. You might wonder, “Why put the effort into changing anything about your wardrobe when we’re still stuck inside?” I’m glad you asked. For whatever reason, this year just feels full of hope that I think most of us were lacking for the past few months (and rightfully so), and I’m done waiting for a day in the future to do the things that make me feel my best. This year, I’m doing that every day—regardless of whether it’s for my dog’s eye’s only or not. My plan? I’m buying these things and getting use of them now, and when the time comes that other humans see me too, they’ll feel brand new all over again. Here’s what’s in my cart:

      1. A colorful cardigan

      I’ll admit that I’m not usually one for a cardigan, but a cozy cardigan in one of the dreamy shades of 2021 is exactly what the doctor ordered, be it for lounging around the house or wearing to the office in the future.

       
       
      2. Long, straight denim

      In my opinion, the perfect pair of jeans in 2021 is a longer, straight fit, reminiscent of what your mom wore in the ‘90s. This season, I’m dedicating myself to finding the perfect pair

       
       
      3. A pair of sunglasses

      Sure, I’ll always love my go-to Ray-Bans and black cat-eye sunglasses, but what better way to spice up your wardrobe than with a new pair of sunglasses?

       

      4. A new shacket

      If you live in a climate that has seasons, the shacket is the gift that keeps on giving, and there’s no shortage of options. Wear it for the rest of winter, spring, next fall, and beyond.

       

      5. A graphic sweatshirt

      We’re all obviously drowning in sweats right now, a fun, graphic one is a great option to have in your arsenal (even if it’s your old college one). Pair it with jeans or plaid pants and layer it under a jacket to bring a little bit of coolness to your look.

       

      6. White combat boots

      Big, chunky lug boots have been the hottest shoe of the year, but they’ve particularly caught my eye in white. I love the thought of wearing them for the rest of the winter with my wool coats and then in the spring and summer to give my dresses and edgier vibe.

        More

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      I Live in LA, but These Cold-Weather Trends are So Good, I’m Buying Them Anyway

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      Don’t let the article’s title or my fake tan fool you: I’m a Chicago girl through and through. It doesn’t feel like fall without restocking up on sweaters, and Christmas can’t come before it snows. But when I moved to sunny Los Angeles a few years ago, I was ready to give up hot chocolate, changing leaves, and the excitement of the first snowfall of the year—but I am not willing to give up these trends.Despite staying at home for almost an entire year, styles still come and go, and fashion feels just as fresh. This season brought trends so chic, unique, pretty, and bold that I just had to have them, even if the weather didn’t permit. Whether you live in year-round warm weather or are currently parked in front of a space heater with your coat on indoors, you’re going to want to indulge in these winter trends.

      1. Everything Leather

      Leather typically feels a little too hot and heavy for any temperature above 65 degrees. But this season said “thank you, next” to moto jackets, and leather started showing up in everything from fancy work trousers to sleek blazers. The everything-in-leather trend is so chic that I would endure a little extra sweat for the sake of fashion.

      2. Cropped Puffers

      OK, the last time someone wore a puffer coat in Los Angeles was, like, never. But in 2021, the cropped puffer is not just a tool to stay warm, it’s a fashion statement. It has become my loungewear of choice when running to the grocery store (or staying warm in my A.C.).

      3. Fringe Sweaters

      I’ve been wearing cozy sweaters since stay-at-home started a year ago, so frankly, I’m bored of knit. But they’re just so soft, there’s nothing I’d rather wear during another stay-at-home day or one of the (few) chilly days in LA (curse you, cashmere!). So the fix for my sweater boredom is adding a stylish detail: fringe. Wear it as a cardigan over a white tee and denim, or rock a high-neck version with your favorite leggings.

      4. Quilting

      That’s right: the pattern reminiscent of your grandma’s go-to hobby is officially cool. Whether it’s a lightweight puffy material or sleek faux leather, I can’t get enough of the subtle trend. Even though it’s traditionally on winter coats, I’ll be stocking up on accessories, skirts, and jackets for staples classic enough to keep for years, but trendy enough to look of-the-moment.

      5. Colored Velvet

      Maybe it’s the inner romantic in me, or maybe I’ve watched too much Bridgerton lately, but I can’t get enough of luxe velvet in jewel-tones and royal hues (Penelope Featherington’s OOTDs are a mood). Luckily, a lightweight piece like a blazer isn’t too warm for LA, and a velour set of sweatpants is basically a must-have at this point. 

      6. Head-to-Toe Knit

      Knit is no longer just a fabric; it’s a way of life. So why stop at a sweater or shirt? Since legs deserve some love too, my winter outfit of choice is knit from head to toe. Whether it’s a chic set (that looks way more stylish than my ratty old sweatpants and camp T-shirt), or a comfortably fitted midi dress (keyword: comfortably), I’m not giving it up, even as temperatures rise.

      7. Statement Coat

      Why should cities with cold weather have all the fun? I love a coat in a bold print or bright color because it makes any outfit look put-together and fashionable (no, seriously. Try it out yourself by throwing it over jeans and a tee). Don’t think statement coats can last season to season? I’ve had the same leopard print coat for five years (yes, I have worn it in LA). And it always looks like I bought it that season.

      8. Winter White

      There’s a reason white is the color of brides, angels, and snow: it just looks so pretty! (OK, maybe there are more logical reasons than the aesthetics, but you get my point.) I love a good white sundress come summer, but winter white is my favorite. Cozy sweaters and light denim are like making a statement with basics. To take full advantage of the trend, go head-to-toe white or opt for investment pieces (like a coat or bag) in the gorgeous hue. 

      9. Chunky Boots

      Before you ask, no, I’ve never been considered athletic (I “played” volleyball in high school and sat on the bench the entire time). But just because I’m not athletic doesn’t mean I can’t be good at athleisure. I’m obsessed with the it-boot of the season: the chunky, functional, and practical athletic boot. They’re like the trendier version of your old-school hiking boots. Since it never rains or snows in LA, the waterproof exterior is just a bonus. 

      10. Plaid Outerwear

      What would Blair Waldorf wear in the winter of 2021? You can bet she’d still be rocking that iconic plaid outerwear. While a classic peacoat is always in style, I also love the structured shackets (shirt-jackets) of the season that are a combination of lumberjack-chic and your nice work shirt. Think: wide collars, a thick material, and an oversized fit.

      11. Sweater Vests

      All bets were off in 2020, so it’s not surprising that one of the year’s most fashionable items was originally rocked by Chandler Bing. And in 2021, the sweater vest trend isn’t going anywhere. Wear it over collared shirts or turtlenecks while the weather is still cold, and I’ll be transitioning it under blazers (or on its own with denim shorts) as the temperature gets warmer. 

      What cold weather trends are you obsessed with RN? More

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      11 Inexpensive Dupes for Your Favorite High-End Skincare Products

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      When I first got into beauty, I spent hours at my pink Dell Desktop computer researching beauty dupes. I got into beauty YouTube when all anyone talked about were MAC collections, Urban Decay Primer Potion (a product I still swear by to this day), and St. Ives Apricot Scrub (you know, before the industry blacklisted it entirely). But I was a mere youngling; there was no way I was getting my hands on all of these astronomically-priced products! So, I scoured the internet for similar products and shades to get me by, but in the process, I fell in love with finding dupes, saving money, and testing new things. And it turns out, I loved it so much that I am still doing it 15 years later! So, whenever I find an expensive product I love, I research and test products at a lower price point to see if it would be a dupe. All of that trialing brought me to accumulate quite the list of similar products to some of the most popular high-end skincare products on the market. Whether you’re saving yourself a little cash (all those Bachelor Monday wine nights get expensive!) or just love to test new things, we’ve curated 11 different dupes you should try next.

      Vitamin C is often in a liquid, serum consistency that you apply during the day, but if you want a rich, brightening mask that combines the impact of vitamin C with hydrating ingredients for nighttime, look no further than this mask from Soap & Glory. Similar to Youth to the People’s Superberry Hydrate and Glow Dream Mask, this overnight mask has a thick consistency that goes on like a heavy moisturizer but leaves your skin looking glowy as ever the next day.

      Finding a thick, intense balm you can use on your elbows, chapped skin, dry lips, eczema patches and more can be a struggle, especially if you’re thinking for an ultra-clean option filled with plant-based ingredients. This one from Alicia Keys’s brand new line at Ulta, Keys Soulcare, fits the bill, containing a rich blend of oils that’s hydrating and luxurious, just like Ren’s Evercalm Overnight Recovery Balm. Use this anywhere you have a dry patch, and it’ll disappear within days.

      Retinol is historically-known as a drying ingredient that can cause peeling and other irritating side effects. But there’s a new retinol in town, and it’s contained in an oil, making it gentle, effective, and moisturizing. Who thought you’d get those three words in a retinol product? Sunday Riley’s Luna Sleeping Night Oil has been a best-seller for years, and Pixi’s inexpensive option has all the makings of a dupe: similar packaging, same quality, and serious results.

      Shiseido’s Benefiance Wrinkle-Smoothing Eye Cream has been a favorite of our editors and readers for a while, but if you’re not quite ready to splurge on an eye cream (there are much more fun skincare products out there!), this one from Roc has amazing reviews; contains retinol; and targets puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles, making it quite the eye cream trifecta. It’s moisturizing and depuffing at first use, but the effects of the retinol over time stack up to those of the Shiseido.

      Blue tansy is a newer skincare ingredient on the scene, so finding this inexpensive dupe for one of Herbivore’s most popular facial oils was basically my bliss. This oil is perfect for anyone with oily or acne-prone skin who is afraid of a heavy oil breaking them out or causing them to produce even more oil.

      If you’d like to try a nightly exfoliating product but want something dry-skin-friendly, a nighttime glycolic acid cream is a great addition to your routine. It’ll slough off dead skin, brighten, and clear skin without the severe drying or tingling effects of a typical AHA serum or toner. SkinCeuticals is known for these dermatologist-grade products, like their Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight Cream, but this K-Beauty option from Soko Glam does the job at a fraction of the price.

      On the other hand, if you want a daily resurfacing toner, like Glossier’s famed Solution, this PHA toner from The Inkey List has a very similar ingredient profile, similar texture, and impressive reviews. PHA is a much gentler option for exfoliation than an AHA like glycolic or lactic acid, but it still provides those same results, especially over time. After using this toner nightly, reviewers say their skin looks brighter, clearer, and smoother.

      Everyone needs a classic detoxifying mask in their skincare routine, and as much as we love the Origins Clear Improvement Charcoal Mask, you also don’t need to spend a lot to get a similar result. This mask from L’Oreal offers the same experience, texture (the classic dry-down clay mask we all love), and results. When I use this, my skin looks so much more even tone, and I notice fewer breakouts.

      Peptides are a great ingredient to add to a moisturizer because they support the health of your skin barrier, which is essential for glowy, bright skin. But you don’t have to pay Tata Harper prices to get the same results (as much as we love it!). This one from The Inkey List is the ideal packaging for a moisturizer: no squeezy tube, no jar to dip into, and no annoying spatulas. Instead, you simply push down on the top, and it comes right out. This keeps the ingredients stable and safe, making the product last much longer than a pot moisturizer might. This daily moisturizer can be used in the morning for a lightweight feel, but it’s hydrating enough to use at night too.

      Dr. Dennis Gross’s Universal Daily Peel pads are a cult-favorite in the skincare world. Makeup artists swear by them to use in the morning before serums and moisturizer to slough off dead skin and leave your face radiant and exfoliated before applying makeup. But when you’re using them daily, they can definitely get pretty pricey, so reaching for these ones from Neogen is a great option. Just like the Dr. Dennis Gross pads, these have multiple AHAs to really exfoliate your skin, but they’re still gentle enough for daily use. Plus, the Neogen pads have a little bit of a texture, so they offer physical and chemical exfoliation, which is perfect for just before makeup. I don’t use these every single day, but they’re ideal for days I want to look my best.

      Everyone needs a really good cleansing oil in their routine, and you don’t have to splurge on the Biossance cleansing oil to get something high-quality that’s filled with clean ingredients. I’ve only recently started trying products from Cocokind, but their products blow me away when you look at the price, the ingredients, and how they stack up with other brands. This cleansing oil would work well for seriously anyone regardless of skin type, and it’s so good, they even recommend it as a morning cleanser to start the day with hydrated, soft skin.
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      10 Trends So Good That I’m Buying Them Now to Wear Later

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      So it’s the 10th month spent at home, the holidays are over, and the weather is pretty bleak. January is always a bummer of a month, even without a global pandemic (am I right, or am I right?). While staying-at-home persists, you might be feeling the Sunday Scaries every night of the week. If that’s not a plea for some retail therapy, I don’t know what is.Personally, I have not been online shopping as much this year as I typically do (at least my bank account is pleased), but the items I have purchased meant more. For one reason, expecting a package in the mail gives me the will to live, but cute trends and pretty pieces also make me feel hopeful for a little bit of normalcy. Maybe I’m overly sentimental, or maybe the trends RN are just so good, but as a little pick-me-up and post-holiday present for myself, these are the trends I’m so excited to wear later (whether it’s in warmer weather or when it’s safe to go out again), that I’m buying them now.

      1. Belted Blazers

      Since March, I’ve been dreaming of what I would wear on my first day back at the office. After 10+ months of reflecting, I can confidently say this will be it. There’s something about a tie belt that makes a standard blazer instantly chicer, and a silhouette immediately more flattering.

      2. Distressed Flared Denim

      If 2020 has done one thing for my closet, it’s that I’m ready to break up with my skinny jeans (and my sweatpants have doubled in numbers). The trendy pair of jeans I’ll be rocking in 2021 is a distressed pair with a flared leg. They’re chic, relaxed, and of-the-moment stylish, and they’re so comfortable, I can start wearing them now while lounging at home.

      3. Mid-Length Knit

      Keeps us warm, feels comfortable, and looks insanely stylish–what can’t knit do? The style I’m currently pining after is a mid-length dress, tight enough to comfortably cling to the body, without being so tight you can’t eat too many slices of pizza (you know what I’m talking about). Dress it up with heeled boots, or dress it down with white sneakers and rock it from now until summer.

      4. Silky Printed Button-Downs

      You may think button-downs are just for the office, but they’ve become my fashionable loungewear of choice. Think Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, only silkier, comfier, and more statement-making. The bloggers on my Instagram feed have been rocking printed button-downs for months over knit joggers and biker shorts, but they’ll look just as good tucked into distressed denim. The bolder print, the better. 

      5. Spring Pastels

      So the weather (and groundhog) still says winter, but I think we can all agree that we’re ready for spring. After a crazy few months, we need sunny days, warmer weather, and bright colors. I’m longing for colors like baby blue, pretty pink, and light yellow to brighten up OOTDs. Wear it now with knit sweaters in pastel colors, or save it for later with blouses, sundresses, and accessories.

      6. Luxe Bra Tops

      Am I the only one who hasn’t bought a new bra since senior year of high school? Lately, I’ve been shopping for comfy bra tops and luxurious bralettes because I’m an adult, and I deserve something pretty, damn it! Maybe I’ll be so bold to wear an outfit with a chic bra top and high-waisted jeans, maybe I’ll lounge at home in a jersey knit bra instead of my old wired ones, or maybe I’ll just feel an extra boost of confidence knowing there’s something pretty under my sweatshirt. Either way, sign me up.

      7. Lug Chelsea Boots

      I’m not usually so edgy to opt for a chunky boot, but apparently, 2020 has brought out my inner edge. Chelsea boots are always in style, but the 2021 version comes with a lug sole, AKA a thicker bottom with ridges (don’t worry, I had to Google it too). Lug Chelsea Boots add a casual, edgy detail to a classic, feminine style, AKA the perfect shoe for any outfit.

      8. Fringe

      Whether it’s Western-inspired fringe jackets you’d find in old John Wayne movies or glam fringe reminiscent of 1920s flappers, the trend is blowing up. Right now, I’m buying it in jackets and sweaters I can wear at home, as well as pretty accessories and dresses I can wear later. 

      9. Sweater Vests

      Who would’ve thought that Chandler Bing would’ve been a fashion icon in 2021? The ’90s fashion trend is back (and chicer than ever), which is no surprise since it’s the perfect combination of comfortable and stylish. Wear it over collared shirts or turtlenecks while the weather’s still cold, and transition it under blazers or on its own with denim shorts when the temperature gets warmer. 

       

      10. Knee-High Boots with a Kitten Heel

      Didn’t you hear? OTK boots are out, and knee-high boots are in. While I still love my chunky-heeled knee-high boots I bought last year, 2021 is all about the skinny and short heel. It’s a little more elegant, comfortable, and trendy, so consider me obsessed. I’ll be looking forward to wearing them out and about, but until then, I’ll be drooling over them in my closet.

      What trends are you buying RN? More