Leandra Medine's Blog, page 12

Trust Me, Try It: An Extremely Loud and Incredibly Chunky Keychain

I have spent the last month cat-sitting in an apartment with central air conditioning and a Roku. It was my New York City version of an oasis until a week ago, when I locked myself out while running to pick up my laundry. I stood stock still in the hallway in sleep shorts and a tank—no phone, no bra, no wallet to my name. After buzzing every apartment in the building, a good Samaritan lent me their phone so I could blubbering-ly call the superintendent.

I haven’t locked myself out of an apartment in over a year. After a quick Olivia Benson-esque assessment of my predicament, I identified my fatal flaw: I hadn’t attached my standard obnoxious keychains to this apartment’s keys.

Normally, on my house keys, I have a beaded ear of corn, a laminate of Meryl Streep sitting in a bowl of Fruit Loops, and a plastic replica of salmon roe sushi. Pieced together they make for an absurd self-portrait but, more than that, they serve a crucial function: they are extremely hard to misplace or forget.

Whenever I’m running out the door, the plastic salmon roe glow at me in the dark. At the bottom of my tote bag full of groceries, the shape of Meryl Streep’s cereal bowl fits memorably in the palm of my hand. By making my keys a chunky, bizarre collection of things that take up a considerable amount of space, I’ve cracked the code on never forgetting my keys again.

For those who have the memory span of a bumblebee when it comes to where you last sat your keys, allow me to suggest some of my favorite fobs, chains, rings, and small pieces of art that you can attach to your clés to maybe (hopefully!) make your life easier.

 

See All 3



Hottie Talismans

Commemorate your love for the celeb or cultural figure of your choice with… a keychain. The beauty of the internet, specifically Etsy, is that I can almost guarantee you there’s a keychain for whomsoever your heart desires. Searching for these was pure joy. Choose your heartthrob and attach them to the key that opens your scary subterranean laundry room.

See All 4


Edible Attachments

This one is a no-brainer and is an extension of the above category. For whatever food item you most love, I, once again, guarantee you there’s a keychain for that. Shin Ramyun? Got it. Cotton candy with a face? Got it. Haribo? G-g-g-got it.

See All 5


Personal Problems

We all love a personal moment! Tell me my Moon, Sun, rising, and Jupiter sign and how it gave me mommy issues! Tell me how ENFPs are people’s people with mediocre initiative! My name apparently means “hard worker” but let me tell you that makes no sense! I love it all. If you do too, here are some choice baubles.

See All 3


Pop Culture Popcorn

If you know anything about me, you’ll know that the more obscure and strange the cultural reference, the more I’ll want it emblazoned on my body as a tattoo. Or hanging off my keyring. Whether it’s the Overlook Hotel business card or just Tony Soprano’s office key fob, there’s something for everyone.

See All 5


And… Miscellania

I have no category for these options but they are all lovable in their own way. If anything, let your collection of keychains be like your middle-school backpack: Lisa Frank tigers, portraits of Orlando Bloom as Legolas, a goddamn Tamagotchi that you got in trouble for playing with during gym class. Let your freak flag fly.

See All 7

Inspired? Perplexed? Incentivized? Tell me what your collection of keychains looks like and how proud you’ll be to slap them down on your entryway table when they arrive.

Photos by  Beth Sacca. 

The post Trust Me, Try It: An Extremely Loud and Incredibly Chunky Keychain appeared first on Man Repeller.

Size-Inclusive Vintage Shopping Tips From an Expert Instagram Seller

The explosion of vintage sellers on Instagram has been an exciting development both in terms of encouraging people to shop more sustainably and creating more opportunities for small businesses to thrive outside the typical constraints of retail—but for all the boom offers in one-of-a-kind vintage discoveries, it is woefully lacking in size-inclusivity. Emma Zack, the founder of Shop Berriez, has made it her mission to help fill that gap. Below, Emma shares advice gleaned from her experiencing sourcing size-inclusive vintage pieces, from her go-to search terms to her favorite tailor in New York.

What websites or Instagram sellers (besides @shopberriez!) would you recommend for size-inclusive vintage shopping?

A few of my favorites are: @shop.fatties, @theseriesny, @morethanyouraverage, @luvsickplus, @vintijbymarqui, @house_of_tame, and @plusbklyn.

Can you share any fun or useful insights into your search strategy?

I follow a bunch of sustainable plus-size bloggers, such as @jazminvegaz, @styleisstyle, @oohhhhhhhhhoney, @miriam.vegac, and @marielle.elizabeth–who all post about size-inclusive vintage and/or size-inclusive sustainable brands (which, by the way, are few and far between!). Otherwise, if I’m shopping on resale sites such as ThreadUp, Poshmark, or eBay, I start by searching by my size. But, since I’ve learned that vintage sizing is arbitrary–much like sizing in general—I also look at the item’s measurements, fabric (i.e. does it have stretch to it?), and silhouette (i.e. will it tug at my hips? Will it be tight on my arms?) to get a better sense of whether it will fit.

See All 10


Are there any particular eras or time periods that tend to have more size-inclusive vintage gems?

I source lots of gems from the ’80s and ’90s. It’s been harder for me to find plus-size vintage from earlier eras, but the ’80s and ’90s are more my style anyways! 

Do you recommend keeping an eye out for certain fabrics or silhouettes?

For fabrics, it really depends on what you like. I prefer natural fibers such as linen, cotton, and silk, but in my experience, it’s been more difficult to source linen and silk pieces—particularly in plus sizes—than it has been to source polyester pieces. I’m also a fan of the acetate and spandex fabric blend—you know, that really stretchy fabric that was popular in the ’90s. I love how it molds to your body and shows off your shape, and it is so comfortable. Personally, my favorite silhouette is a bias cut. I find that it hugs my curves nicely. I’m always on the lookout for bias-cut pieces, and I often recommend them to customers during IRL styling appointments.

Are there certain items that you’ve found are relatively easy to order without trying on first?

As a plus-size person, it’s always easier to try things on before I buy them—but I usually have to order clothing online because most brick-and-mortar shops don’t sell my size. Even if they did, IRL shopping is nearly obsolete in the age of COVID-19! That being said, I highly recommend taking your measurements–specifically bust, waist, hips, and inseam. When online shopping for vintage, compare measurements to pieces you already own. Don’t pay too much attention to the size. I’m a 14 or 16, but in vintage I’ve worn anything between a 10 to a 20. In an effort to make online shopping for vintage easier, we added a “model size guide” to the Berriez website, so that people can compare their measurements to the measurements of the model wearing the item. We also aim to have models wear clothing that’s their actual size (e.g., instead of having a size XL person model an item that’s size 3X, we’ll have a size 3X person model it). This has been more difficult during COVID, but it’s a good practice to keep in mind.

Do you have any advice on getting vintage pieces tailored?

I have the majority of my pants and skirts altered because my hips are a full size bigger than my waist. You can have most things altered—suede, leather, elastic waists, denim, etc.—you just need to be great at sewing or find a skilled tailor. Last year, I found this incredible vintage suede midi skirt that didn’t fit quite right, so I had it altered and now it fits me perfectly. (Side note: If you’re in the New York area, check out Perry Tailoring in the Financial District.)

Any other size-inclusive vintage shopping tips or tricks you’d like to share?

The more exposure to fat bodies in fashion media and brands like Man Repeller, the more space that will be available not only for plus-size vintage shopping, but for plus-size people in general.

Photos by Jessica Portillo.

The post Size-Inclusive Vintage Shopping Tips From an Expert Instagram Seller appeared first on Man Repeller.

A Guide to Curating the Ultimate Cozy Corner at Home

I recently dedicated a small zone of my space as my “cozy corner,” where anything with a screen and all work-related tasks are banned. It’s the best way I’ve found so far to physically separate my job from my leisure time. Entering the cozy corner helps my brain understand that it’s time to decompress, and it feels like a tiny getaway staycation.

I’d recommend this cozy corner business to anyone who could benefit from fencing off a nook of your personal space. (So: everyone.) Consider the womb-like hidey hole at Brooklyn bookstore Books Are Magic as a jumping-off point; here, a few suggestions for decking out this little respite from your laptop.

1. A minimum of 2 photos that bring you joy, framed with love

I’m not going on vacation this summer, so I framed a couple of photos from my most recent expeditions to help me hold onto some happy memories of travel and companionship. I love these floating wood frames from Etsy—or I’d recommend this one if your corner has sufficient wall space. These Italian lacquer frames, which are available in custom sizing, are an easy way to add color—as is this thick red one. I’m pro these mini ones because… the more the merrier, in all things. We also have this showstopper, which is a vintage Murano glass frame. (High glamour!) A closing idea: You can stack your frames in this letter holder and switch out the one in front every day.

See All 7


2. A tiny greenhouse with plants for you to nurture, nestled in pretty planters

I started growing an herb garden at the beginning of quarantine with no idea how long either would last. Nearly five months later, my basil is gigantic, and I’ve already gone through an entire batch of cilantro. Tomatoes are on the way, and I’m currently engaged in a lasting flirtation with this indoor mushroom set.

Plants need homes, and I’ve had fun buying planters, both new and vintage. I selected them with great care, since they are holding my babies—few things better illustrate the passage of time than the growth of a plant, which makes everything feel extra-precious. I bought this one from Jungalow a little over a month ago, and it’s held a growing palm ever since. I also bought one from Orange Is the Sun on Etsy—a vintage seller—that is very special to me. I’m now thinking of getting a hanging planter to make my cozy corner more vertical, too.

See All 7




















See All 5


3. Soft, truly cozy touches

Nestling into warm, cozy, pleasant things that can hold and touch you is wonderful. I love the idea of this little bean bag chair or this book seat, with some great pillows. Curl yourself up in this blanket and close your eyes for a second. Be careful, though; you may fall asleep.

See All 11


4. Little things to boost your creativity

I went to undergrad for painting, and sometimes, shutting out everything around me and just doodling makes me feel more aware of my own thoughts and ideas. I recommend this charcoal set plus the proper eraser, which is an easy set-up (unlike painting). If you’re into painting, I love watercolors, and you only have to buy primary colors because they look great overlapped. (Color-mixing can be extremely satisfying.) Another idea is knitting! Harling dove into knitting at the start of quarantine, and I think it’s a great idea—plus you can make yourself a cute little knit bra top!

See All 5




















See All 5




















See All 5


5. Bookends and accessories for your reading materials

I confess I’ve never been a huge reader, but I have a ton of learning to do, and I have a ton of books—acquired from several different bookstores along with lots from my boyfriend’s personal collection. I’m also very excited about adding to my collection for the Man Repeller Book Club. With that in mind, I got a couple of vintage bookends, so now my reading material feels like it has the proper framing it deserves. Special shout out to the Book Seat, too, which is on my book-adjacent shopping list.

See All 8


6. Speakers for music, audiobooks, or guided meditation

I spend a lot of time reading emails (etc.) on my computer, so just listening to a story is a great escape. These speakers and headphones make it easy to retreat into another world via audiobooks in my corner—either something I’m curious about or a friend’s suggestion.

See All 5




















See All 5


7. Little games to play while listening to your audiobook

Games are tailor-made for nooks. My top pick is a puzzle (see the fun options below), but I’ll also spend some time with Sudoku or a one-person card game like Solitaire.

See All 10


8. Delightful beverage carafes + all that jazz

Every night after dinner, I like to start settling down with a cup of chamomile tea. Whatever your favorite, it’s nice to have a little beverage area in the nook just for you. Nobody else can clean it, touch it, use it. It’s just yours, and it will become a precious space. Now, you just need to pick the most calming possible beverage for optimal relaxation.

See All 10


9. A single light source that also makes you smile

This isn’t just a little desk lamp—this is a lamp that brings you joy when both turned on or off, an art piece in itself. Bonus: a nice little glow for your nook.

See All 10


10.Candles for a subtle glow and scent therapy

Candles are romantic in a way a lamp can never be—plus, a nicely scented one will give off soothing, warm aromas. You know what you like—these are some of my personal favorites (plus a few really cool unscented ones).

See All 11

Header Image Via: Beata Heuman

The post A Guide to Curating the Ultimate Cozy Corner at Home appeared first on Man Repeller.

3 Outfits That Prove Backless Sneakers Are Underrated

I completely forgot about my prized middle school possession–backless slide-on sneakers that were blue suede with a black stripe down the front–until two weeks ago when I stopped by Mikaela’s apartment to drop something off, and noticed a similar pair lined by the front door. With a rush, I remembered how unexpectedly versatile a slide-on sneaker is–not to mention the fact that is has all the good parts of a sneaker, with the bonus of being slightly more stylized. I asked Mikaela if she would be opening to demonstrating their magic by collaborating on a mini style shoot with me, and she agreed with enthusiasm. Below is the result, accompanied by a conversation about our shared love for backless sneaks and some thoughts on how to wear them. –Elizabeth

Elizabeth: When I stopped by your home the other day, I noticed a pair of slide-on backless Nike sneakers that TOOK ME BACK. I had a blue suede pair years ago and I hadn’t thought about them until I saw your pair by your front door. Can you tell me about yours? Where do you wear them? Why did you buy them?

Mikaela: Hiii! First of all—you literally had blue suede shoes, like the song?? Fantastic.

Eliz: Oh, yes.

Mikaela: Unsurprised. You fashionista, you. So, the shoes! It’s funny you noticed them because they’re just my “bodega shoes,” that I’ve had since the early 2000s. I truly don’t recall them ever NOT being in my life… one day, they just kind of appeared. But I guess that’s the case when you’re the youngest kid. They’re a size too small, so it’s clear that my past self jacked them from my older sister. Youngest kids always end up with the best hand-me-downs.

Eliz: It’s true. I got a lot of my sister’s growing up. Actually–sneakers in particular. I guess it’s because they only get better as you wear them.

Mikaela: Yes! Something about a sneaker’s structure just ages like fine wine–I don’t mind if my sneakers look a lil’ ratty. My Air Maxes are shot and torn, but I love that about them! And you can’t tell in photos.

Eliz: The nostalgia hit me when I saw them, but they also made me newly aware of a hole in my shoe wardrobe. I only want to wear closed-toe shoes in general right now, so I can walk as far as I need to comfortably, and because I love how sneakers look styled with summer dresses–but historically that’s meant missing out on the ease of a slip-on sandal. I really feel like backless sneakers are the solution?

Mikaela: YES to all of the above. It wasn’t until I put those black Converse on with the slip dress that I realized how perfect that combination is.

Eliz: It’s such a good combo, and the backless element makes the look feel more summery than it would if the dress was paired with normal sneakers. I also like how the sportiness of that particular style juxtaposes with the flowy, lightweight sweetness of the slip.

Mikaela: Yes, and the backless look makes the outfit a little more unconventional. We’ve reached a peak with the slip dress + chunky sneaker combo, and the 3 wing 4 in me always wants to look a little ~different~ from the norm.

Eliz: Were they easy to walk in without sliding around?

Mikaela: My old ones are tough because they’re not my size, so I can’t make it far without them slipping, but that’s why they’re my bodega shoe. When I’m wearing the correct size, I find them very easy to walk in, and am much less prone to slippage than a traditional slide sandal.

Eliz: In addition to styling them with dresses, I also love pairing them with pants that naturally slope down in the back so it’s not obvious the shoes are backless until you start walking. And then it’s a fun surprise!

Mikaela: Hahaha yes! We love to keep the people guessing. Those pants combined with the slipper sneakers made me feel like I was wearing the most luxurious and fashionable pair of pajamas in my life. And I mean that as the highest compliment.

Eliz: I love those pants so much, too. That elastic waist band and big cuff. They’re by DIARRABLU and there’s also a matching top available. I think we should officially start calling that style “slipper sneakers.” They’re the ultimate loungewear of footwear–but you can still go outside in them.

Mikaela: Okay I’m going to have to snag that top ASAP. And yes, slipper sneakers are the backless sneakers’ bougie, sleepwear-loving cousin! Time to bring the loungewear to your feet, people. This outfit was definitely my favorite. I felt like that effortlessly chic, cool girl you see on the train. You just wanna be her friend, or know where she’s going! The knit top elevated it, but the sneakers kept it comfortable and approachable.

Eliz: Yes yes yes! Cool Subway Girl = the ultimate goal!

Mikaela: I hope I’ve been someone’s Cool Subway Girl before.

Eliz: Same. And those were your good ol’ bodega shoes! Their time to shine.

Mikaela: They never thought they’d see the day!!!

Eliz: LOL. And what about outfit number three: the mini skirt ensemble?

Mikaela: Oh you mean my Dionne from Clueless cosplay??! ICONIC.

Eliz: That’s the one!

Mikaela: I loved this outfit. The dainty sneakers kept it preppy without looking too tennis-y (but also, there’s nothing is wrong with a good tennis ‘fit). The layers are what got me, though. The T-shirt with the skin-tight, thin cardigan! It’s genius. I felt hawt.

Eliz: You looked it! And yeah, I liked the cardigan element, too. A tissue sweater is always a good investment because you can wear it through so many different seasons.

Mikaela: You are a master stylist, Eliz. I’ll say it every day.

Eliz: Oh jeez. It was all the model and… the backless sneakers, I tell ya! He he he.

See All 10

The post 3 Outfits That Prove Backless Sneakers Are Underrated appeared first on Man Repeller.

The Best Swim Coverups Under $100, From Caftans to Vintage Terry Cloth

My personal criteria for what makes a good swim coverup are as follows: 1) It should double as a garment that I can wear places that aren’t just “the beach” or “a pool.” In other words, it has to be versatile enough to suit multiple settings–not too sheer, and not so short it could be confused for a shirt. I should be able to wear it into a restaurant. 2) It should be amenable to contact with water and/or sand–so ideally made with fabric that doesn’t take forever to dry and can be machine-washed, and not so expensive that the idea of putting it on while my bikini is still damp and salt-encrusted feels like blasphemy.

Guided by these guardrails, I compiled a shopping guide for your cover-upping pleasure. Scroll below for the goods, and feel free to share your favorite coverups and/or coverup criteria in the comments below.

All the Terry Cloth, All the Time

I love terry cloth coverups because they feel like putting on a delicious robe after taking a hot shower, or like wrapping yourself in the fluffiest towel. There are so many fun vintage ones on Etsy, like this mustard yellow micro mini, and this beachy version of a black-tie gown, and this delightful turquoise number with serious nightgown vibes. Honorable non-vintage mention goes to these adorable terry cloth button-down dresses that go up to a size 3X.

See All 8


Embroidered Cotton FTW

I think a lot about the sensation a fabric will have on my skin in general whenever I’m buying something, but especially if I’m buying something to wear when it’s really hot out, and maybe I’m going swimming or maybe I’m pretending I’m going swimming—either way I just want my skin to breathe as much as it can. Cotton is the logical choice of material in these cases, and there’s something about embroidered cotton in particular that feels both uniquely summery and therefore uniquely suited to a feel-good swim coverup. I’m absolutely in love this style of dress, which is rooted in the tradition of Mexican embroidery (read more about that here). This one is a similar style but more colorful and with long sleeves, and this pretty one goes up to size 4XL. I’m also obsessed with this one and this one from Black-owned vintage marketplace Thrilling.

See All 11


Easy, Breezy Caftans

When I’m thinking purely in terms of silhouette, nothing beats a caftan for swim-coverup purposes. Light on tailoring, heavy on comfort, they’re perfect for throwing on over a swimsuit. For a more put-together look, I love to style them with a rope belt like this, lots of layered necklaces, and strappy sandals. Here’s a nice, classic, stripe-y option on sale at Shopbop from one of my favorite brands, SZ Blockprints. I also like this one with an adjustable drawstring, and this beautiful yellow one you could easily take a nap in.

See All 6

Photos by Krista Anna Lewis.

The post The Best Swim Coverups Under $100, From Caftans to Vintage Terry Cloth appeared first on Man Repeller.

3 Dessert Recipes to Make in Your New Man Repeller Mug (They’re Finally Here!)

Since making the transition from hot to cold coffee a little over a month ago, I’ve really been missing my mugs. I’ve tried using a mug as a vessel for cold water—but can’t shake feeling like I’m 22, and at a house party well past the point of clean glassware. Until recently, I thought I’d tried every way to reintroduce mugs back into my life, when I remembered the hottest food trend of 2014: mug cakes.

If you Sleeping Beauty’d your way through 2014 mug cakes, unlike regular cakes, are cooked inside a mug in your microwave. There are literally thousands of recipes for mug desserts (and soups, and lasagnas, and pizzas) on the internet, but I managed to narrow it down to three I was excited to try.

I decided to test each recipe for three things:

Can’t Fuck It Up-Ness. I am bad at baking. Cooking? Excellent! Cocktail making? Sufficient? But baking? Bad. Which is why these recipes need to be easy peasy.
The Yum. Opposite of the dating phenomenon, The Ick, meeting this criteria will mean that I am instantly satisfied by, and attracted to, the deliciousness of this recipe.
Fancy Factor. Each recipe should have a little somethin’ somethin’ that takes it out of the Pinterest Bad Place and into a food realm I’d be willing to frequent and even invite friends to.

Below, you’ll find my reviews of three sweet mug recipes, tried and tested inside the brand spankin’ new range of Man Repeller mugs.

Snickerdoodle Mug Cake from Five Heart Home

Oh the snickerdoodle, my all-time favorite cookie, how I do love thee. This recipe sounded so good in theory, especially for something I could whip up in way less time than it would take to get Insomnia Cookies delivered to my apartment. In reality, the mug snickerdoodle was… fine.

Could I have fucked it up? I wouldn’t say I fucked this cake up, but if I did it again, I would do things a little differently. The recipe calls for “big spoonfuls” of dough to be layered with cinnamon sugar (aka the best bit of the cake.) Once cooked, the dough itself is quite boring, and a little floury. The sugar layers are the tastiest part, and I wish there were more of them! Next time, I’ll opt for thinner layers.

Was it yum? While the sugary cinnamon layers were definitely yum, the dough itself left a lot to be desired.

Did it feel fancy-ish? Though it didn’t taste particularly fancy, the sparkly sugar-sprinkled top of this cake made it feel a little special.

Overall rating: 2/5

 

Chocolate Mug Cake from NYT Cooking

I was thrilled to discover that the NYT Cooking app had a mug cake begging to be made. (This excitement was enough to look past the fact I don’t really like chocolate cake.)

Could I have fucked it up? I made this cake quite late at night and will admit, my measurements were pretty lazy. Still, it turned out cake-like, edible, and quite cute if I do say so myself.

Was it yum? This mug cake is flourless, which meant it didn’t fall victim to the floury taste of the snickerdoodle cake. I enjoyed a few spoonfuls, but need to mention that my boyfriend, a much bigger chocolate fan than I, absolutely loved it.

Did it feel fancy-ish? If I were to rebrand this cake as a “flourless single-serve chocolate cake” it would sound a lot fancier than it actually was. It felt fancy enough, but could do with a tiny fancy update like the aforementioned name suggestion.

Overall rating: 3.5/5

Chocolate Chip Cookie in a Mug from No. 2 Pencil

Sometimes you just feel like a single cookie. Or at least, I do! A lot of the time! Which is why this recipe sounded so appealing: a single, microwavable cookie? Brilliant. In the end, it was no Levain, but it was good, and I would legitimately make it again (maybe even tonight.)

Could I have fucked it up? If you can separate an egg yolk from the white you can already nail the hardest part of this recipe. The rest is just measuring and gently mixing.

Was it yum? It was GOOD, especially at a time when nobody wants to turn their oven on for a single cookie.

Did it feel fancy-ish? The fanciest thing about this experience was that I bought “chocolate morsels” instead of “choc chips.”

Overall rating: 4/5 even without an obvious fancy factor, which is saying something!

Photos by Beth Sacca

The post 3 Dessert Recipes to Make in Your New Man Repeller Mug (They’re Finally Here!) appeared first on Man Repeller.

Strange But True: I Want to Wear a Wetsuit 24/7 (And I Intend To)

What is it about the slippery handfeel of a scuba-adjacent fabric blend that feels so appealing? I can trace my affinity back to a few particular things: Opening Ceremony’s ye olde Magritte collection; this awe-inspiring Muehleder top; a missed connection I had with a pair of Trademark stirrup pants. I tried on the latter on August 28th, 2016 and still regret not buying them, even though they were a size too big. I also dream of running my hands through a rack of Veronica Beard’s scuba offerings and COS’s zip-up jacket with a slight peplum waist. It all leads me to wonder… can I trade my sweatsuit for a wetsuit? Is this the summer I wear my scuba gear in and out of the water?

My most consistent quality is that I’ve always loved to swim in cold, salty water until I can’t shrug the numbness off any longer. I would wear anything that could extend my tolerance for staying in the water as long as possible, so I’m not sure why I never considered shopping for a wetsuit until now. When I recently floated (haha) the thought by my parents, they told me the same thing they said when I asked if we could get a Toy Poodle every day of kindergarten: “You can only get a wetsuit if you’re going to take care of it.” This maintenance includes hosing it down after every use, and ensuring that there’s a spot to let this unwieldy, life-size and heavy mass of material dry.

Not to be a hero or anything, but I did not let this deter me! I started looking into ways to sustain my enthusiasm for scuba fabric both on- and offshore, and found a few innovative brands that sell wetsuits that check both of my boxes: ideal for a dunk in frigid waters while also functioning as good styling fodder for landlubbing summer outfits.

I Learned a New Word: Yulex!

While, eh-hem, surfing the web in pursuit of wetsuits, I began to read about all of the ways that the original iteration of neoprene is non-renewable, energy-intensive and sometimes toxic in its manufacturing process. Patagonia now makes all of their wetsuits with Yulex, a natural rubber alternative to neoprene they’ve developed and shared with other brands. The Seea and Ansea are two womens’ surf brands that have followed suit (I honestly don’t even like puns!). The cherry on top: Yulex even has its own accessory line. I’ve got big plans to trade in my Aqua Sox for a fresh pair of Yulex boots, and ward off the barnacles underfoot in the process.

See All 8


Swapping out Petroleum for Limestone

Cynthia Rowley, Ride Engine, and La Bamba are narrowing in on better practices by using earth-mined limestone and recycled materials like tires and plastic bottles rather than petroleum in their neoprene manufacturing. (Limestone serves as the lesser of the two evils as a resource that isn’t an oil derivative. If you’re curious about how certain brands score in terms of sustainability and ethical practices, the Good On You directory is a great resource.) I like these sleeveless or pants-less options because they look slightly less daunting when it comes to finding a place to let these puppies dry.

See All 5

While I’ve seen bucket hats take on a second life after being upcycled from designer toweling, I haven’t seen much in the way of upcycling and patchworking old-fashioned neoprene beyond this Marine Serre gown that once had a five-figure price tag. Is this a million dollar idea? My calling? The next frontier? If you have any wetsuit recommendations you swear by, please deposit them in the comments.

Photo by Edith Young.

The post Strange But True: I Want to Wear a Wetsuit 24/7 (And I Intend To) appeared first on Man Repeller.

I’m Convinced That These Are the K-Beauty Products You Actually Need

The most MTV Cribs aspect of my apartment would be my bathroom’s medicine cabinet. It’s a Fantasia apothecary of tubes, vials, and bottles containing no less than 100 skincare products (it’s very big) that easily amount to over $5,000. My skincare routine and subsequently, my very well cared for skin, is the kind of occupational perk as a beauty editor that people build social media personas around. But before all that, back when I was trying to figure out what to do about my dry-yet-congested skin that was prone to pigmentation, K-beauty was first gaining traction in the U.S. amongst skincare bloggers before “influencer” was but a twinkle in Instagram’s algorithmic eye.

Seven years and billions of dollars of economic growth later, skincare dominates the beauty industry—I like to think in tandem with the rising popularity of K-beauty and its skin-focused agenda. Even though my career in beauty editorial has granted me access to some of the most luxurious of skincare brands and treatments, I always reserve space for some of the same Korean skincare products that got me hyped up on skincare to begin with.

To simplify an often overwhelming concept, the tenets of K-beauty skincare follow the mantra of Derek Zoolander’s merman. You can never be too moist. Got a skin issue? Hydrate it. Doesn’t work? Then try a more targeted approach. That whole K-beauty 10-step routine thing was designed to be a multi-layered approach to hydration—getting it, trapping it, protecting it. They have their benefits, but I don’t think 10 whole steps are absolutely necessary for healthy skin, in my experience. But for the overachievers who will accept no less than their skin’s dewiest, bounciest, and most radiant performance, K-beauty is all about that, and so am I. I’m not suggesting that you transition your entire skincare routine to K-beauty products, but here are some concepts to consider and the K-beauty skincare champs that have been pillars and building blocks to my skincare routine now.

Double-Cleansing Is the Best Thing to Happen to Your Pores and Pillowcases

Cleansing is arguably the most important skincare step. —it resets your whole slate so the rest of your products can work at peak efficacy. I’m not exaggerating when I say that double-cleansing before bed changed my life. All the scrubbing I’d previously entrusted to a cotton pad soaked with some bi-phase liquid to remove makeup would always claim eyelash casualties, clog pores, and still sometimes leave mascara or eyeliner residue on my eyes. Double-cleansing’s initial oil-based cleansers (usually a balm or a liquid) are made to be massaged on your dry face to smudge the hell out of any makeup and oil on your skin and then emulsify with water to politely leave your face when you rinse. Follow that with a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining residue and you will never leave mascara marks on your pillowcase again. This whole process takes but two minutes—the mildest imposition on your time for its infinite benefits. Banila Co Clean It Zero 3-in-1 Cleansing Balm has been a popular crowd-pleasing cleansing balm for years— for how it can get anything off your face with just a gentle touch. Hanskin Pore Cleansing Oil is a great pick if you’re breakout-prone with the addition of PHA, a gentle chemical exfoliator (also the 10 oz bottle lasted me ages). Then I Met You’s Living Cleansing Balm is a bit pricier, but you really feel it in its premium ingredients—it’s like a fancy facial oil that changed careers to become a cleanser instead and it just took to its new job like a duck to water.

See All 3


Toner Is a Life-Changer

It took a while for me to untangle my brain’s wiring that associated toner with the super astringent Sea Breeze and Noxema that I grew up with. K-beauty relies on toners as the wingman to your skincare routine, making sure to prep your skin to better absorb your following treatment products. Perhaps you’re familiar with the sponge analogy and how it’s easier for a sponge to absorb things when it’s moist as opposed to when it’s totally dry and hard. Toner is that moisture link. It helps to sweep any excess residue your cleanser didn’t catch and contains other helpful ingredients—chemical exfoliators, fermented botanicals, or hydrators themselves. My absolute favorite is the Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner. Incredibly lightweight in texture, it’s made quick work of pigmentation marks while hydrating and brightening my skin in a matter of days. Isntree’s Hyaluronic Acid Toner is that bitch when it comes to immediate, wholesale hydration. Its texture is like a thick liquid but once you pat it on… it is the hydration equivalent of Hilary Duff’s “Come Clean” music video.

See All 2


Essence: Crucial or Confusing?

Why not both! Do you absolutely need it? It’s not a must. But does it have its benefits? Absolutely. Essence is basically a toner/serum hybrid. They have the lightweight liquid texture of a toner with the concentrated ingredients of a serum. So if you want to incorporate one K-beauty product into your skincare routine but aren’t sure where to start, an essence will be an excellent amuse-bouche. In fact, Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence (a well-lauded dupe for the $$$ SKII Essence) got me on the K-beauty train in the first place. Benton’s Snail Bee High Content Essence is much cheaper however and also very effective, especially when dealing with breakouts and picking scars, in my experience.

See All 3


Serums

Serums aren’t a proprietary K-beauty product but they are another vehicle for Moisture’s henchmen, so you’d better believe they got ’‘em and how. Serums tend to be an expensive skincare category in general because of their concentrated ingredients (and, you know, marketing), but some of my favorite ones have been from K-beauty brands that work just as well as the fancy expensive western brands for a fraction of the price. Missha’s Time Revolution Night Repair Probio Ampoule is one such serum (and another more affordable dupe for Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair Serum). Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Drop is a brightening powerhouse and Benton’s Snail Bee Ultimate Serum has been amazing at balancing out my dehydrated skin barrier and swapping my former dull skin texture for the plump, smooth, and even-toned skin that only snails and bees can offer.

See All 4


Sun Protection Is Non-negotiable

Did you know that you should be wearing sunscreen every single day, even when it’s cloudy? If not, now you do, and you cannot unknow this information. K-beauty upholds cleansing and sun protection as its two pillars of healthy skin—think of your skincare routine like a sandwich and cleansing and SPF are the bread. What you put in between them is interchangeable, but a sandwich ain’t a sandwich without bread (miss me with that open-faced business!). Because of this very tactical approach to sun protection, K-beauty innovates the crap out of their sunscreens’ feel and performance, and tend to stuff even more beneficial skin-enhancing ingredients in them. They’re the least sunscreen-feeling sunscreens I’ve ever worn. In the day time, you can top your SPF over your moisturizer or just find yourself a moisturizing sunscreen that you like. Some standbys I love are Purito’s Unscented Centella Green Level SPF 50 — very moisturizing and calming while being a lightweight, easy smear. Goodal Mild Protect Watery Sun Cream SPF 30 has been a really nice, everyday summer sunscreen for me since its gel-liquid texture is really hydrating but feels weightless. And same goes for COSRX Shield Fit Snail Essence Sun SPF 50, which gives you more snail goodness. Snails will save us all.

See All 3


The Konclusion: Just dew you

A K-beauty skincare routine can seem overwhelming due to its inclusion of unique product categories, but I don’t think you need to follow a super- involved routine for results. It might be controversial but honestly…I don’t really care for sheet masks. I think they’re a great way to prep your skin when you want to really juice your complexion up for an event. But as something to regularly incorporate into a regular skincare routine? I mean, if you really want to, go ahead.

The path to dewy, glass skin is layered with lightweight veils of hydration, an occasional sweep of dead skin and debris with chemical exfoliators, and then more hydration. Sometimes changing your approach to skincare is enough to get results you’re after, and K-beauty has been an eye-opener for me. Even just incorporating one new step into your skincare routine can do a lot, and then you can build from there if you want to. Can a person have too many skincare products? Yes. But can a person be too moist? I daresay not.

The post I’m Convinced That These Are the K-Beauty Products You Actually Need appeared first on Man Repeller.

3 Women on What It’s Like to Lead “Double Lives”

The classic superhero trope–one person, two markedly different identities–is even more impressive when it manifests in reality. I’ve always admired people who make space for their duality in intentional ways, juggling multiple passions or jobs or versions of themselves at the same time. What it lacks in ease it can make up for in enrichment, as demonstrated by three women who generously shared the stories of their double lives with me below. Scroll down to read about the thrills and the challenges of this balancing act, and how the pandemic helped clarified what they want to prioritize.

Selena is a market research analyst who moonlights as a go-go dancer…

Follow Selena on Instagram here.

I started go-go dancing when I was living in Philadelphia as a sophomore in college. I was working a couple campus jobs but felt like I needed another job to have some additional spending money and a little more flexibility with my budget. A friend told me about this bar where she was working as a go-go dancer, called The Trestle Inn. I looked it up on a whim, and they happened to be having auditions the next week.

After college, I decided to stay in Philly because I love the city, but also very much because of go-go dancing–I didn’t want to stop. I had a full-time day job in healthcare market research. Some of my colleagues knew about the go-go dancing, but the majority of people didn’t. I wasn’t actively trying to hide it, but I would only bring it up if it came up organically. People have different views about whether it’s empowering or objectifying, so it can be tricky. There were a few times when someone from college came to the bar and saw me dancing and was really surprised. One time, I was dancing at this private party for a Penn Law event organized by the school, and a guest actually asked my manager to have me stop dancing because they thought it was sexist. 

I feel fortunate that I’ve never gotten a bad reaction from another workplace or day job when I’ve told someone about it, though–the companies where I’ve worked are usually pretty supportive. And I’m grateful to be able to pursue two very different passions. I’ve always been really interested in dance and ’60s and ’70s music, but another huge passion of mine is being involved in public health research and workplace wellness research. I recently moved back home to the Bay Area, where I’ve continued working in healthcare market research, but I haven’t been able to find go-go dancing gigs because of the pandemic. I’m looking forward to doing both again in the future. 

Léa is juggling her dual careers in dance and “dream weaving”…

Follow Léa on Instagram here.

I live in Brooklyn, and I direct and dance and choreograph for a dance team and company here. In October, I also started working shifts at 11 Madison Park as a dream weaver. My job is to design surprising and magical custom experiences for people at the restaurant. Every day is completely different. A famous example from the past was this guy who emailed in advance and was like, “Well, I would rather be golfing than going to this fancy dinner,” so the team set up an entire golf course for him in a private dining area upstairs. But the most common thing that we do is make cards and paintings of people’s special memories. We typically start prepping at 3:00 p.m. in advance of the dinner shift, meeting with all of the head people in the restaurant–the chefs, the pastry chefs, the captain who is doing service–and we talk about every single guest who is coming in that evening. 

I’ve always kind of subconsciously kept dance and dream weaving separate, just because I was like, “Oh, I want people at this particular job to really know that I’m fully committed.” That’s definitely the culture in both work environments: “Our whole lives are about dance” or “Our whole lives are about making this restaurant the best in the world.” I didn’t want my colleagues to think I was splitting my focus, and sometimes it was difficult to navigate which parts of my personality fit where. On the other hand, I feel like I bring so many of the skills I’ve learned in each workplace back and forth between the two jobs, so there is some crossover in that sense, even if it’s not obvious to anyone else.

The commute time is the hardest thing about juggling both jobs, though. I live in deep Brooklyn and the studio is kind of far north. Eleven Madison Park is somewhere in between. Also, the hours at the restaurant can be really challenging. Sometimes I would be there until 2 a.m. and come home around 3 a.m. It’s hard to not sleep in really late the next day. I also have a really weird eating schedule. 

Right now the restaurant is closed because of the pandemic, but the dance studio is still open. I miss doing both at once. I’ve always wanted to do both things–dance and something that feels more professional and structured. That’s what true balance is to me. 

Karuna plans next-level weddings and gets her hands dirty as a potter…

Follow Karuna on Instagram here.

I enjoy doing up spaces, and I really thrive in a people setting, so wedding planning came naturally to me. Indian weddings in particular are completely over the top, and sometimes overwhelming, but I love them (I’m such a hardcore romantic). I split my time between that and pottery, which is important for my mental health because it’s so different from weddings–I’m in this little studio, alone with just the clay. 

People have encouraged me for a long time to turn the pottery into an actual business, but I’ve always been worried about having enough bandwidth. It would mean being more selective with the number of weddings I take on, but that’s something I’ve been seriously considering, especially over the past few months now that I’ve had the privilege of being able to devote more time to it. I don’t take that for granted. It’s a hard decision, though, because the wedding planning is already a full-blown, existing business with a reliable income. My partner and I are booked almost a year in advance. I worry that if I scale back or take time off, we’ll be losing out too much financially.

I don’t think I would ever completely give up one for the other. Weddings are such a chaotic environment, and I’m micromanaging every detail. Everything has to be perfect, and it’s absolutely nerve-wracking because you’re never at peace until the event is done, and then you do it all over again. Clay takes its own time, though. You can’t really force things on it. Pottery is how I practice letting go.

Graphic by Lorenza Centi.

The post 3 Women on What It’s Like to Lead “Double Lives”  appeared first on Man Repeller.

Go Ahead, Wear a Robe All Day

When we originally published this story in May, we were finally starting to settle in to working (and weekending) from home. It’s July now and we’re still home, still wearing and loving robes. So, we figured it was as good a time as any to get this pro-robe conversation started once again and share some brand new product recommendations.

I’d forgotten the virtues of a robe since I last wore one regularly, when I was at college and they were the best option for navigating a communal bathroom post-shower. Back then, terry was the way to go — it kept everything modest while doubling as a towel.

Now, on day 60-whatever of quarantine, I find myself getting out of the shower and simply putting on a robe—and not necessarily terry cloth! What I’m talking about here is the robe as an outfit. There are cotton options, fancy silk ones, quilted ones, and even robes that double as dresses. During a time when I’m not going outside, the robe provides a comfortable easy outfit without committing to getting fully dressed — like a coverup to keep on indefinitely. Sometimes putting on another pair of sweatpants makes me feel hopeless and uninspired, but the non-committal robe doesn’t do that to me. Not to mention, it’s an item that you keep and wear for years.

Follow along below for the world’s easiest dressing item.

Terry to Wick it All Away

The classic towel-y robe wicks off moisture post-shower but is also totally acceptable to wear hours after said wash. My favorite is this Weezie that—while expensive—has maintained its top condition for years. This Snowe robe wicks moisture away like magic; I like it in medium-gray. The two picks from Brooklinen and Parachute are fan favorites—both at $99—and are really cute for couples robes. For a less expensive option, I was super impressed by the quality and thickness of this one, which I got for photoshoots. This $30 robe is nice and sturdy; the wrist-length arms help it stay out of the way while I’m doing chores. Happier with a hood? Try this groovy striped one or this lavender one. There’s also this mustard yellow one a commenter introduced me to that I can’t get out of my head. It’s very Wes Anderson. If you want another fun color, The Company Store offers a veritable rainbow. I feel obligated to share this $60 tie-dyed robe—it’s fleece and exceptionally cozy.

See All 12


Cotton as the Perfect Middle Man

Don’t need your robe to double as a towel? I recommend light-weight cotton. My favorite is from Lunya—I prefer the short length for easy leg movement, but it comes in a long version, too. This Coyuchi robe in an organic cotton jersey is similar. Eberjey’s version is like the black-tie version of lounge robes, for under $100. For a variety of colors, this one has pretty piping (and is just $23.99!). Natori’s thin, flowy, easy-to-wash robe has high customer ratings. This shorter one is $25.49 and comes in a pretty, mint. I love the beachiness of this Brooklinen style. For some print: This Liberty of London-print robe or this paisley one from Printed Pattern People  And this Cuyana version with two front pockets in heather-gray pima cotton is basically the utility robe—the cargo pants of robes, if you will.

See All 10


Feeling Like A Million Bucks

When I want to feel like Moira Rose, I opt for a luxurious, silky robe. Lunya tops my list again, with this cleverly designed robe with elastic-cuff sleeves. Then there’s this one, which comes in a slew of jewel tones and is just the right length. I’m in love with this lace-trim snake-print one from Torrid, available in sizes ranging from 00 to 6X (we should all have the chance to feel so luxuriously glamorous). For a longer luxurious option, this silk one with African kente cloth trim. I also love this ladylike printed robe which would go great with a cup of tea, caffeinated or not. Or! This lace-sleeved one from Anya Lust in a delicate powder blue.  This animal print one from Etsy comes in several colors. This one from Intimissimi and this one from Naadam are SUMMER CASHMERE and on sale, people!

See All 9


The Interchangeable One: The Dress as Robe

Since by now I’ve convinced you to wear your robe around your home all day, why don’t we go a step further and wear our robe in public! These are patterned robes in everyday fabrics: cotton, linen, and the like.

This yellow linen one could be worn open or closed with proper shoes and some necklaces. This one from Etsy is technically a bathrobe, but I could very much see myself wearing it over a white cotton set. Same with this handwoven one — in a similar style — from Bolé Road Textiles. This green one comes in a plethora of other colors. And this one is technically a dress but basically a house robe. Also technically dresses but interchangeable as robe-wear: this one from Three Graces or this embroidered white vintage one. The brand Jungalow calls this one a dress but I’d wear it at both a dress and robe. Venturing back into linen territory, this striped one is on sale and its put togetherness would convince any Zoom meeting that you’ve put a lot of thought into your appearance. I would picnic in the center of my apartment The Song of Music style in this similar gingham number from & Other Stories. This pink number with purse-sized pocket or this blue one with the high ruffled collar are both perfect for a walk. Or this vintage printed corduroy robe that satisfies a full outfit. And then there is this one-of-a-kind quilted robe from the 70s for $29.70! What an incredible find, if I do say so myself.

See All 15

What one-and-done items are you wearing around your home these days? Give me some ideas to marinate on in the comments below!

The post Go Ahead, Wear a Robe All Day appeared first on Man Repeller.