Leandra Medine's Blog, page 61

Which Winter Hat Comes After the Balaclava Trend?

Recently, I’ve been struck by a gut feeling that something has been missing each time I bundle up to go outside. It’s not unlike the feeling I get after I eat a savory meal and realize I’m not within spitting distance of a piece of chocolate. It hit me hardest the other day when Leandra posted this photo on Instagram with the caption, “Welcome back balaclava season”:

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Welcome back balaclava season

A post shared by Leandra (Medine) Cohen (@leandramcohen) on Nov 14, 2019 at 7:56am PST

A winter head accessory! That was the missing hint of sweetness to top off (literally) my outfit. But was the balaclava that awaited in my closet, tucked away after last February’s final frost, up to the task? The task, that is, of reigning supreme as the pinnacle of trendy winter hat options? Let me answer that question with another question: What comes after the balaclava trend?

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The balaclava is a hard one to beat. Not only does it provide maximum, polar vortex-appropriate warmth, but it also packs a serious style punch, turning an outfit as mundane as sweatpants and a sweater into a FUN! LOOK!, which is not easily accomplished in temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit. But that’s not to say balaclavas are without flaws. I have a few ‘clava gripes I’d like to publicly air, such as the fact that they are fundamentally incompatible with big, curly hair. They both suffocate said hair and cause friction, a.k.a. the collective enemies of curls trying to be their most luscious selves. My other main gripe is that balaclavas itch my face and neck. There! I said it.

So while I have enjoyed their warmth-providing, outfit-augmenting capabilities, I wouldn’t be mad about an alternative option, and since I haven’t seen convincing evidence that one is being brewed for me courtesy of the trend powers that be, I’ve taken it upon myself to cultivate one with vigorous intention, and by that I mean pester my coworkers to see if they had any salient leads. A few kind souls did me the courtesy of answering my passionate slack query (“WHAT COMES AFTER THE BALACLAVA ??????”):

“A thick headband,” Elizabeth responded. “Something equivalent to ear muffs.”

“I feel like it could be a moment for a wide fleece headband,” Max agreed.

I was totally on board, until I happened to go for a run on an extremely chilly morning last week, wearing none other than a fleece runner’s headband. It looked kind of cool, I had to admit, and it kept me warm enough while I was running, but as soon as I hopped off the West Side Highway and started walking the rest of the way back to my apartment (at what was admittedly a glacial pace), the top of my head protested. I was still cold! I didn’t just want to be encircled, I wanted to be cocooned! So what to do? What to wear?

Like most miraculous answers, this one came from an unexpected source–a press release from a Ukrainian outerwear brand called Ienki Ienki that landed in my inbox, featuring images from their Fall/Winter 2019 campaign. One of the photos depicted a model wearing a big green puffer jacket and a bright orange puffer kerchief tied around her head. The moment I saw it, I knew it was the winter head accessory we needed, one that would keep us cocooned without pestering our hair and make a stylistic statement simultaneously. I called in a sample to try it out, and reader, I was not disappointed:

A similar pufferkerchief (this is what we should call it, right?) effect can be achieved with any detachable hood on a winter coat, but here’s another sold separately in a bunch of colors for $24.99 from Carhartt for your consideration.

What do you think? Are you down to clown with this concept??? Meet me in the comments to discuss.

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The post Which Winter Hat Comes After the Balaclava Trend? appeared first on Man Repeller.

The MR Gift Guide, Part 3! (Starring: Tartan Loafers and a Comb That Looks Like Art)

Welcome to the Annual Man Repeller Gift Guide! As you may know, we love throwing a theme party that moonlights as gift-giving advice around here, and this year’s theme is “horoscopes.” It’s a timely celebration of the 2010s’ primary source of digital catnip, but also an excuse to create TWELVE highly personalized gift vignettes for your shopping pleasure. Tuesday you saw gifts for fire signs, yesterday gifts for earth signs, and today, air signs are up. So now I’ll hand the mic over to astrological aficionado Sarah Panlibuton Barnes who is far more qualified to wax poetic on the stars and their plans for your presents. — Harling Ross

Every sign has a role to play in the grand orchestral movement of celestial influence. There are those that light the fires, and those that put them out when they get too wild. There are those that counsel patience when we all need to slow down, and those who dare us to jump whether we’re ready or not. During the holiday season we are especially aware of all the different influences and perspectives that exist in the world and that, at least for the duration of one dinner or one holiday party, must exist in the same room. Luckily for us, there is a special group of humans astrologically predisposed to help this miracle of connection happen.

As air signs, Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius are the astrological communicators of the zodiac. They are the signs most likely to lean into compromise and make space for all sides to be heard. Translation: Every time Uncle Bernie starts talking to cousin Lou and her girlfriend Lynn about the state of this country, send in your most even-keeled Libra, your most curious Aquarius, or your most effervescent Gemini to defuse the situation. Or send in all three and hope for the best because Uncle Bernie is an old blowhard and honestly he is one opinion about bathroom laws away from catching these hands. ANYWAY.

Air signs are working overtime right now facilitating the hell out of challenging dynamics. Show them some love with objects that surprise and delight them. Libras love beauty and balance, so lavish them in things that would make a duchess ask where your Libra shops. Gemini is the sign of connection, so shower this social butterfly in tools to keep the party going through a sub-zero winter. Aquarius is the air-sign elder, wise, eccentric, and charming, you just need to worry about keeping their attention. This may sound like a tall order, but MR knows just what you need.

Libra

At family gatherings, you get an intergenerational room full of people with all their distinct hangups and soapboxes and you just never know what will come to the surface. This could be the Christmas where all the light-hearted remarks you’ve made about your family come back to bite you when mommy has too many sangrias. For example, you could arrive at the family home only to find that your mom let it slip that one time you said that your cousin’s wife looks like she could be his twin sister and that you reckon people are freaked out when they see them kiss in public. If you (understandably) double-down and suggest that one of them should dye their eyebrows or something, all hell could break loose! In times like these, you better hope you have a Libra in the family. The peace-keepers of the zodiac, Libra wants harmony above almost everything else. Except maybe diamonds. And gold. And expensive perfumes featuring rare oils that can only be obtained from the glands of some small furry creature in France. You see, Libra is ruled by Venus, and she craves symmetry and beauty in relationships, as well as in her worldly surroundings.

Honor that impulse with this aesthetically titillating vase from the MoMa Design store, and these perfect tartan loafers. And/or encourage your Libra to indulge in their weakness for the luxurious side of life with this set of extra silky chocolate bars, this Buly 1803 body lotion (which is so artisanal and fancy you can have your Libra’s name added to the handwritten label) paired with these La Manso rings and these effortlessly chic bracelets that will highlight Libra’s artisanally hydrated hands. Offer it to your beloved in this satin tote and you win the holidays. Congratulations.

See All 7


Aquarius

In the world of Aquarius, this cold weather and the omnipresent festive jingles on the radio can be the messenger of delight or the harbinger of doom depending on whether your water-carrier is surrounded by people that fill them up. Aquarius is all about the eccentric, the fascinating, the cutting edge. They love people, but sometimes in that distant, benevolent alien way. As you would imagine, holiday parties full of meaningless chatter and materialism make them want to blast right out of their bodies. If you’re in the market for objects that will delight an Aquarius in your life, the most important thing to remember is that Aquarius hates to be bored and loves a higher purpose.

To keep the interest of your Aquarius, offer them objects that are unique and that elicit a second look. Take this Tory Burch phone case that looks like it might also be a wee purse for example. Or this unusual table lamp from the MoMa design store that probably looks like an enchanted glowing egg from far away. If your Aquarius must go to events that could plausibly be boring, gift them with this charming LoveShackFancy cardigan and this eye-catching bracelet and pin combo so that people will be so distracted by the things they’ve wrapped their limbs in that they won’t even consider talking about the weather. (Bonus points: A portion of the proceeds from the purchase of the bracelet and the pin go to worthy causes.) After the party, send your beloved water bearer home to a relaxing bath with these uplifting SOUL bath bombs and these combs that double as the prettiest art-things that have ever distributed your scalp oils, guaranteed.

See All 7


Gemini

Oh, what’s that you say? A time of year where there are too many parties to count and everyone is almost required to turn sequin-centric looks? You can count Gemini TF in. The weather may be gloomy, but nothing can dampen a Gemini’s spirits during such a social season. If you ever find yourself curled up on your couch, space heaters purring, enjoying a hot toddy, and gazing out the snow battered window to wonder, Who could possibly be out partying in this arctic blastero-vortex snow-tornado? Let me tell you that somewhere, on the other side of town, there is a Gemini wearing gaiters and layer upon layer of waterproof smart-down, making it fashion, and trudging to the season’s hottest event.

Help the Gemini in your life dazzle despite the meteorological constraints with these glittering earrings and this glitzy bag. Don’t forget a chic pair of sunglasses, because haven’t you heard of snow blindness? If your Gemini is considering avoiding frostbite and throwing the party of the ages in their own home, get them this Kate Spade cocktail set. Also, this Orange Surprise Ball is the best present you could possibly give a Gemini. Apparently, this toy-that-you-destroy by slowly unfurling this paper orange was originally used to tell one’s life story as the ball comes undone. If this doesn’t tickle your Gemini’s chatty fancy, I don’t know what will. Bonus: There is a sweet trinket inside to remember the gift by. Finally, even though gemini does tend to hate being alone, help them lean into some solo self-care with this Saturday Skin potion and this candle that smells like roses in the rain.

See All 7

Come back tomorrow for our final installment: water signs!

10 PHOTOS
click for more

Photographer: Cody Guilfoyle

Prop Stylist: Sara Schipani

Art Direction/Production: Sabrina Santiago 

Market: Leandra Medine Cohen, Harling Ross & Elizabeth Tamkin 

The post The MR Gift Guide, Part 3! (Starring: Tartan Loafers and a Comb That Looks Like Art) appeared first on Man Repeller.

The MR Gift Guide Part 3! (Starring: Tartan Loafers and a Comb That Looks Like Art)

Welcome to the Annual Man Repeller Gift Guide! As you may know, we love throwing a theme party that moonlights as gift-giving advice around here, and this year’s theme is “horoscopes.” It’s a timely celebration of the 2010s’ primary source of digital catnip, but also an excuse to create TWELVE highly personalized gift vignettes for your shopping pleasure. Tuesday you saw gifts for fire signs, yesterday gifts for earth signs, and today, air signs are up. So now I’ll hand the mic over to astrological aficionado Sarah Panlibuton Barnes who is far more qualified to wax poetic on the stars and their plans for your presents. — Harling Ross

Every sign has a role to play in the grand orchestral movement of celestial influence. There are those that light the fires, and those that put them out when they get too wild. There are those that counsel patience when we all need to slow down, and those who dare us to jump whether we’re ready or not. During the holiday season we are especially aware of all the different influences and perspectives that exist in the world and that, at least for the duration of one dinner or one holiday party, must exist in the same room. Luckily for us, there is a special group of humans astrologically predisposed to help this miracle of connection happen.

As air signs, Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius are the astrological communicators of the zodiac. They are the signs most likely to lean into compromise and make space for all sides to be heard. Translation: Every time Uncle Bernie starts talking to cousin Lou and her girlfriend Lynn about the state of this country, send in your most even-keeled Libra, your most curious Aquarius, or your most effervescent Gemini to defuse the situation. Or send in all three and hope for the best because Uncle Bernie is an old blowhard and honestly he is one opinion about bathroom laws away from catching these hands. ANYWAY.

Air signs are working overtime right now facilitating the hell out of challenging dynamics. Show them some love with objects that surprise and delight them. Libras love beauty and balance, so lavish them in things that would make a duchess ask where your Libra shops. Gemini is the sign of connection, so shower this social butterfly in tools to keep the party going through a sub-zero winter. Aquarius is the air-sign elder, wise, eccentric, and charming, you just need to worry about keeping their attention. This may sound like a tall order, but MR knows just what you need.

Libra

At family gatherings, you get an intergenerational room full of people with all their distinct hangups and soapboxes and you just never know what will come to the surface. This could be the Christmas where all the light-hearted remarks you’ve made about your family come back to bite you when mommy has too many sangrias. For example, you could arrive at the family home only to find that your mom let it slip that one time you said that your cousin’s wife looks like she could be his twin sister and that you reckon people are freaked out when they see them kiss in public. If you (understandably) double-down and suggest that one of them should dye their eyebrows or something, all hell could break loose! In times like these, you better hope you have a Libra in the family. The peace-keepers of the zodiac, Libra wants harmony above almost everything else. Except maybe diamonds. And gold. And expensive perfumes featuring rare oils that can only be obtained from the glands of some small furry creature in France. You see, Libra is ruled by Venus, and she craves symmetry and beauty in relationships, as well as in her worldly surroundings.

Honor that impulse with this aesthetically titillating vase from the MoMa Design store, and these perfect tartan loafers. And/or encourage your Libra to indulge in their weakness for the luxurious side of life with this set of extra silky chocolate bars, this Buly 1803 body lotion (which is so artisanal and fancy you can have your Libra’s name added to the handwritten label) paired with these La Manso rings and these effortlessly chic bracelets that will highlight Libra’s artisanally hydrated hands. Offer it to your beloved in this satin tote and you win the holidays. Congratulations.

See All 7


Aquarius

In the world of Aquarius, this cold weather and the omnipresent festive jingles on the radio can be the messenger of delight or the harbinger of doom depending on whether your water-carrier is surrounded by people that fill them up. Aquarius is all about the eccentric, the fascinating, the cutting edge. They love people, but sometimes in that distant, benevolent alien way. As you would imagine, holiday parties full of meaningless chatter and materialism make them want to blast right out of their bodies. If you’re in the market for objects that will delight an Aquarius in your life, the most important thing to remember is that Aquarius hates to be bored and loves a higher purpose.

To keep the interest of your Aquarius, offer them objects that are unique and that elicit a second look. Take this Tory Burch phone case that looks like it might also be a wee purse for example. Or this unusual table lamp from the MoMa design store that probably looks like an enchanted glowing egg from far away. If your Aquarius must go to events that could plausibly be boring, gift them with this charming LoveShackFancy cardigan and this eye-catching bracelet and pin combo so that people will be so distracted by the things they’ve wrapped their limbs in that they won’t even consider talking about the weather. (Bonus points: A portion of the proceeds from the purchase of the bracelet and the pin go to worthy causes.) After the party, send your beloved water bearer home to a relaxing bath with these uplifting SOUL bath bombs and these combs that double as the prettiest art-things that have ever distributed your scalp oils, guaranteed.

See All 7


Gemini

Oh, what’s that you say? A time of year where there are too many parties to count and everyone is almost required to turn sequin-centric looks? You can count Gemini TF in. The weather may be gloomy, but nothing can dampen a Gemini’s spirits during such a social season. If you ever find yourself curled up on your couch, space heaters purring, enjoying a hot toddy, and gazing out the snow battered window to wonder, Who could possibly be out partying in this arctic blastero-vortex snow-tornado? Let me tell you that somewhere, on the other side of town, there is a Gemini wearing gaiters and layer upon layer of waterproof smart-down, making it fashion, and trudging to the season’s hottest event.

Help the Gemini in your life dazzle despite the meteorological constraints with these glittering earrings and this glitzy bag. Don’t forget a chic pair of sunglasses, because haven’t you heard of snow blindness? If your Gemini is considering avoiding frostbite and throwing the party of the ages in their own home, get them this Kate Spade cocktail set. Also, this Orange Surprise Ball is the best present you could possibly give a Gemini. Apparently, this toy-that-you-destroy by slowly unfurling this paper orange was originally used to tell one’s life story as the ball comes undone. If this doesn’t tickle your Gemini’s chatty fancy, I don’t know what will. Bonus: There is a sweet trinket inside to remember the gift by. Finally, even though gemini does tend to hate being alone, help them lean into some solo self-care with this Saturday Skin potion and this candle that smells like roses in the rain.

See All 7

Come back tomorrow for our final installment: water signs!

10 PHOTOS
click for more

Photographer: Cody Guilfoyle

Prop Stylist: Sara Schipani

Art Direction/Production: Sabrina Santiago 

Market: Leandra Medine Cohen, Harling Ross & Elizabeth Tamkin 

The post The MR Gift Guide Part 3! (Starring: Tartan Loafers and a Comb That Looks Like Art) appeared first on Man Repeller.

Open Thread: How Do You Choose Your Side of the Bed?

The loyalty I maintain toward a particular side of the bed stems from a long-standing tradition upheld by my small-bladdered, well-hydrated female forebears. Like my mother and my grandmother before her, I religiously sleep on the side closest to the bathroom. (I became particularly passionate about this cause after sleeping on the top bunk of a bunk bed the entirety of my senior year of high school, a situation that made nighttime trips to the toilet an exercise in… exercise.)

To be perfectly honest, I don’t even go to the bathroom that often during the night, but I have an admittedly neurotic need to fall asleep knowing that if I happen to experience an urge, I’ll be able to relieve it a solid 2-3 seconds quicker than I would if I were sleeping on the other side. Ergo, the whole time I lived alone, I slept on the bathroom-adjacent side of the bed without fail–even though my bed was queen-sized and could have accommodated any and all diagonal permutations–and I have continued to do so after moving in with my fiancé Austin. When I recently asked him if he had a preferred side, he said “the opposite side of whatever side you choose,” which is nice to the point of being offensive.

The reason I even inquired is because the topic came up when I was having dinner with some friends a week ago, all of whom had side-of-the-bed preferences for entirely different reasons from my own. We ended up ordering a second bottle of wine to facilitate our discussion, which basically consisted of each of us outlining a staunch defense of our respective predilections. Shortly thereafter, I poked the majestic journalistic resource that is Instagram with a series of related questions: Do you have a favorite side of the bed? If so, why? Do you maintain it regardless of whether you’re sleeping alone or with a partner? Et cetera.

I received 456 replies and counting, thus proving my burgeoning theory that bed-side preferences make for a fascinating anthropological study, if only because the differences in opinion ascribe to a degree of (potentially contentious) fanaticism akin to that of cilantro or the Kardashians. While surveying the data, I noted down the most common reasons people gravitated toward particular sides. Below, a small sampling of feedback from the multitude of responses, divided by standout side-preference categories:

The Side Furthest From the Door (Because: Intruders)

“I prefer the side closest to the door for spooky reasons, because if anyone (namely a ghost) were to break into the room, then my partner would get murdered first.”

“I sleep away from the door so when monsters come I’m not the first to get eaten. I share a bed with my husband, so he would get eaten first by said monsters.”

“I choose the side further from the door because it makes me feel safer.”

“I am VERY passionate about my side of the bed, which is always the side that is farthest away from the door. I listen to too many murder podcasts, okay?”

The Side Closest to the Door (Because: Also Intruders)

“I like to sleep closest to the door–more time to escape intruders!”

“Closest to door. My anxious little brain wants access to a quick escape in case anything goes awry.”

“I gravitate to the closest side to the door and always stick to it. Easy escape.”

“I always sleep on the side which is nearest to the door of the room so that I can flee easily, or so that I can immediately defend my bed companion and myself in case of emergency.”

The Side Closest to the Outlets (Because: Electronics)

“My boyfriend told me I had to be on a particular side because the other (a.k.a. his) side has an outlet so he can charge his phone while he looks through reddit in the middle of the night.”

“I have to read every night before bed or I can’t sleep, so I need a bedside lamp. One side of the bed has an outlet, so that’s the one I picked. Not that deep.”

“Closer to the phone charger plug! When I moved houses I switched bed sides for this reason (naturally rather than intentionally!)”

The Side Next to the Wall (Because: Coziness)

“I like to feel really snug, so if one side is next to a wall I squeeze into that corner as much as I can like a cat in a cardboard box. Even if I’m sleeping alone I need to be as far away from an entry (or the end of the bed) as possible. I have tried switching sides, it makes me feel really exposed and unsafe and end up switching back!”

“I like to create a cozy little nook for myself between my partner and the wall…I don’t like the feeling of the abyss next to me when I sleep.”

The Side Furthest From the Wall (Because: Claustrophobia)

“If a side of the bed is next to the wall, I want the side which is on the farther side. It just makes me feel at ease.”

“My bed is against a wall, and my partner is incredibly attached to the outer side. Maybe too attached.”

“Originally my boyfriend and I didn’t have sides when we first moved in together, but it quickly became apparent that I have to sleep in the outer part of the bed, opposite the wall. If I’m tucked away in the corner he snuggles so hard that my face smashes into the wall.”

The Side Closest to the Window (Because: Air Flow)

“In my current bed I chose my side based on its nearer proximity to my one bedroom window. I like to be cooler when I sleep.”

“I am passionate about my side of the bed, and my rockstar partner fully indulges my specific needs haha. As selfish as it sounds, I typically choose *the best* side of the bed—here in NYC that means next to the window a.k.a. the heat and A/C and light.”

“I always sleep closer to the window! I LOVE fresh air at night, while my partner would rather have our windows closed so this is our compromise. It’s the same when we are traveling.”

“I like to sleep closest to the window! I firmly believe in a cracked window year round, and I like to position myself closest to the fresh air.”

The Left Side or the Right Side, No Matter What (Because: Piercings, Injuries, or Disabilities)

“I have some extra piercings on my left ear, like cartilage and tragus, that can hurt real bad if I sleep on ’em. So when I’m with my partner, I take the right side of the bed so I can lay on my right side so we can spoon!”

“I am deaf in my right ear, so I prefer the left side of the bed. Before lights out, I can be turned to my husband and we can chat and flirt, and then when it’s time for lights out, I turn over and can’t hear anything. It’s perfection!”

“My boyfriend always picks the right side because he has an injured right shoulder and can only turn to face me on his left side.”

The Side Closest to the Bathroom (Because: Peeing)

“I am single and currently sleep in a twin bed, but last year for a solid 11 months I had a queen bed. After having a twin bed my whole life, I was at a loss with the enormity of the space I had to sleep on, but the answer of the side was simple: the one closet to the bathroom.”

“I always feel the need to be closest to the bathroom, because I get up to pee a lot. So ‘my side of the bed’ always changes! It really doesn’t matter to me whether I’m alone or with someone, I just really get anxious if I have to go around the bed in the middle of the night to get to the bathroom.”

“My husband likes to sleep on the side closest to the bathroom wherever we are because he uses the bathroom at night so many times…”

“Close to the bathroom! A girl’s gotta pee!! I’m super passionate about it. Will not swap with my partner.”

There was a very small subset of people who claim to a) not care about their side of the bed or b) deliberately switch sides for fun. If you fall into either of these minorities, I urge you to donate your brains to science for further study. If you want to pledge your allegiance to one of the categories above, or if you deviate in some way, please sound off in the comments below. Now if you’ll excuse me, my side of the bed is calling.

Graphics by Coco Lashar.

The post Open Thread: How Do You Choose Your Side of the Bed? appeared first on Man Repeller.

The MR Gift Guide, Part 2 (Ft. Gucci Lipstick & Super Soft Slippers)

Welcome to the Annual Man Repeller Gift Guide! As you may know, we love throwing a theme party that moonlights as gift-giving advice around here, and this year’s theme is “horoscopes.” It’s a timely celebration of the 2010s’ primary source of digital catnip as this decade come to a close, but also an excuse to create TWELVE highly personalized gift vignettes for your shopping pleasure.

We’re breaking them up over the course of four days, which started with fire signs yesterday, moves to earth signs today, and tackles water and air signs after that–so be sure to keep checking back for more treats. (Think of it like an advent calendar, except you get to eat multiple chocolates at once.) Now, without further ado, I’ll hand the mic over to astrological aficionado Sarah Panlibuton Barnes who is far more qualified to wax poetic on the stars and their plans for your presents. — Harling Ross

What would we do without our earth signs to keep us grounded during this frenetic time of year? The holidays can send many of us spinning like tops, zipping around Black Friday sales and worrying about whether Aunt Gilda is back on her militant raw veganism kick and will spend at least two thirds of any get-together referring to your leather shoes as “those dead baby cow sacks on your feet.” Luckily, the universe in its infinite wisdom has gifted us chill-ass earth signs who will help keep us sane this season.

Earth signs are a gorgeous combination of pragmatic and sumptuous. They will make sure that the roast poultry stays basted and that everyone’s cups stay filled. At the holiday function, earth signs are likely to bring the most decadent canapés, post up on the comfiest furniture, and draw other guests into their soothing and sensual aura. Earth signs are the astrological equivalent of Timothée Chamalet’s powerful brow, mixed with velvet upholstery, mixed with an ankle stabilizing boot, mixed with Obama’s oratory timbre. Gifts inspired by this energy will be beautiful, functional, and overall pleasing to the senses. Do you have excitement shivers running down your excitable spine? I sure do! Let’s break it down.

Taurus

When I think of Taurus, I think of a buxom film starlet in repose atop a chaise lounge. There is a gilded lazy susan, a spinning selection of patisserie at Taurus’ fingertips. Scattered around the scene are half-drunk bottles of good wine, an abundance of pillows, burning resins and incense, and a hitachi vibrator (anachronistic but spiritually truthful). Taurus is all about feeling good on her own terms. Pressies to delight someone with these sensibilities will be all about decadence, but not the dripping-in-diamonds kind, more like a luxurious cashmere beanie, these understated bracelets, some statement clogs, an excellent handbag, and an “Oh, this old thing?” cool-girl attitude. Tauri are also likely to sit out some of the overabundance of festivities this season, seeing as how they are characteristically protective of their energy. So send ‘em into homebody-bliss with domestic delights like this set of face masks, and these salt and pep grinders that look like something you’d find in a claymation cartoon set in a laboratory.

See All 5


Capricorn

Capricorn, the astrological sea-goat, is a master of the material and the emotional world. With their hooves on the ground and their sleek fish tails in the aqueous territory of emotions, they are turned on by worldly success and self-mastery. They love to savor the fruits of their hard work and they swoon for excellent craftsmanship. Capricorn is the sign you want at the helm of any holiday get together and they generally know this about themselves. In fact, as a cardinal sign, they have probably already sent out embossed invitations and created a spreadsheet listing every guest’s dietary restrictions and favorite conversation topics.

Show up to a Cap’s party with this sleek vase that reminds me of that terrifying shimmer-twin that Natalie Portman fights at the end of Annihilation and this beautifully crafted velvet cushion. If you want to go the jewelry route, these earrings and bracelets will have even the most selective sea goat in an appreciative tizzy. When the festivities are over, Cap will probably want to start cleaning up and writing thank you cards immediately. Encourage them to chill out with this matcha set that will appeal to their taste for tradition and these flip flops which make them feel like they’re walking on the backs of teddy bears, which will appeal to anyone with feet.

See All 6


Virgo

Everyone needs a Virgo in their life, especially during the holidays. Virgos are all about the joy that comes from order, harmony, and abundance in the material world. For example, I will bet you a mug full of eggnog (which I believe is more of a weird custard than a beverage) that a Virgo probably created Tetris. That moment when the little stack of cubes finally fits into the gap and the line disappears was clearly designed with a Virgo’s pleasure centers in mind. This delight in introducing order into chaos translates into an excellent set of hands in any holiday kitchen. A Virgo will dice the hell out of a scallion, efficiently zest the citrus, and line up your mise en place in understated ramekins.

Delight your Virgo’s taste for beauty and order with this colorful cutting board that says, “I like chaos when it is completely sealed into a non-porous and hygienic surface,” the coolest jar I’ve ever seen, these tartan Baggu zip sets to keep all their important objects (such as this excellent Gucci Beauty lipstick set) separate and easily findable, and this gilded set of utensils so they never have to worry about other people improperly washing their forks and spoons (a real concern). Top off your sensational display of gift-giving with these perfectly toasty slippers by Toast so that Virgo’s feet will stay both pristine and warm.

See All 6

Come back tomorrow for all your air-signed loved ones!!

12 PHOTOS
click for more

Photographer: Cody Guilfoyle

Prop Stylist: Sara Schipani

Art Direction/Production: Sabrina Santiago 

Market: Leandra Medine Cohen, Harling Ross, & Elizabeth Tamkin 

The post The MR Gift Guide, Part 2 (Ft. Gucci Lipstick & Super Soft Slippers) appeared first on Man Repeller.

The MR Gift Guide, Part Two (Ft. Gucci Lipstick & Super Soft Slippers)

Welcome to the Annual Man Repeller Gift Guide! As you may know, we love throwing a theme party that moonlights as gift-giving advice around here, and this year’s theme is “horoscopes.” It’s a timely celebration of the 2010s’ primary source of digital catnip as this decade come to a close, but also an excuse to create TWELVE highly personalized gift vignettes for your shopping pleasure.

We’re breaking them up over the course of four days, which started with fire signs yesterday, moves to earth signs today, and tackles water and air signs after that–so be sure to keep checking back for more treats. (Think of it like an advent calendar, except you get to eat multiple chocolates at once.) Now, without further ado, I’ll hand the mic over to astrological aficionado Sarah Panlibuton Barnes who is far more qualified to wax poetic on the stars and their plans for your presents. — Harling Ross

What would we do without our earth signs to keep us grounded during this frenetic time of year? The holidays can send many of us spinning like tops, zipping around Black Friday sales and worrying about whether Aunt Gilda is back on her militant raw veganism kick and will spend at least two thirds of any get-together referring to your leather shoes as “those dead baby cow sacks on your feet.” Luckily, the universe in its infinite wisdom has gifted us chill-ass earth signs who will help keep us sane this season.

Earth signs are a gorgeous combination of pragmatic and sumptuous. They will make sure that the roast poultry stays basted and that everyone’s cups stay filled. At the holiday function, earth signs are likely to bring the most decadent canapés, post up on the comfiest furniture, and draw other guests into their soothing and sensual aura. Earth signs are the astrological equivalent of Timothée Chamalet’s powerful brow, mixed with velvet upholstery, mixed with an ankle stabilizing boot, mixed with Obama’s oratory timbre. Gifts inspired by this energy will be beautiful, functional, and overall pleasing to the senses. Do you have excitement shivers running down your excitable spine? I sure do! Let’s break it down.

Taurus

When I think of Taurus, I think of a buxom film starlet in repose atop a chaise lounge. There is a gilded lazy susan, a spinning selection of patisserie at Taurus’ fingertips. Scattered around the scene are half-drunk bottles of good wine, an abundance of pillows, burning resins and incense, and a hitachi vibrator (anachronistic but spiritually truthful). Taurus is all about feeling good on her own terms. Pressies to delight someone with these sensibilities will be all about decadence, but not the dripping-in-diamonds kind, more like a luxurious cashmere beanie, these understated bracelets, some statement clogs, an excellent handbag, and an “Oh, this old thing?” cool-girl attitude. Tauri are also likely to sit out some of the overabundance of festivities this season, seeing as how they are characteristically protective of their energy. So send ‘em into homebody-bliss with domestic delights like this set of face masks, and these salt and pep grinders that look like something you’d find in a claymation cartoon set in a laboratory.

See All 5


Capricorn

Capricorn, the astrological sea-goat, is a master of the material and the emotional world. With their hooves on the ground and their sleek fish tails in the aqueous territory of emotions, they are turned on by worldly success and self-mastery. They love to savor the fruits of their hard work and they swoon for excellent craftsmanship. Capricorn is the sign you want at the helm of any holiday get together and they generally know this about themselves. In fact, as a cardinal sign, they have probably already sent out embossed invitations and created a spreadsheet listing every guest’s dietary restrictions and favorite conversation topics.

Show up to a Cap’s party with this sleek vase that reminds me of that terrifying shimmer-twin that Natalie Portman fights at the end of Annihilation and this beautifully crafted velvet cushion. If you want to go the jewelry route, these earrings and bracelets will have even the most selective sea goat in an appreciative tizzy. When the festivities are over, Cap will probably want to start cleaning up and writing thank you cards immediately. Encourage them to chill out with this matcha set that will appeal to their taste for tradition and these flip flops which make them feel like they’re walking on the backs of teddy bears, which will appeal to anyone with feet.

See All 6


Virgo

Everyone needs a Virgo in their life, especially during the holidays. Virgos are all about the joy that comes from order, harmony, and abundance in the material world. For example, I will bet you a mug full of eggnog (which I believe is more of a weird custard than a beverage) that a Virgo probably created Tetris. That moment when the little stack of cubes finally fits into the gap and the line disappears was clearly designed with a Virgo’s pleasure centers in mind. This delight in introducing order into chaos translates into an excellent set of hands in any holiday kitchen. A Virgo will dice the hell out of a scallion, efficiently zest the citrus, and line up your mise en place in understated ramekins.

Delight your Virgo’s taste for beauty and order with this colorful cutting board that says, “I like chaos when it is completely sealed into a non-porous and hygienic surface,” the coolest jar I’ve ever seen, these tartan Baggu zip sets to keep all their important objects (such as this excellent Gucci Beauty lipstick set) separate and easily findable, and this gilded set of utensils so they never have to worry about other people improperly washing their forks and spoons (a real concern). Top off your sensational display of gift-giving with these perfectly toasty slippers by Toast so that Virgo’s feet will stay both pristine and warm.

See All 6

Come back tomorrow for all your air-signed loved ones!!

12 PHOTOS
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Photographer: Cody Guilfoyle

Prop Stylist: Sara Schipani

Art Direction/Production: Sabrina Santiago 

Market: Leandra Medine Cohen, Harling Ross, & Elizabeth Tamkin 

The post The MR Gift Guide, Part Two (Ft. Gucci Lipstick & Super Soft Slippers) appeared first on Man Repeller.

10 Viral Looks That Shaped This Decade of Red Carpet Style

In one of my first jobs out of college, my 60-something-year-old boss would routinely ask me how we could make his small company “go viral.” At the time I found this endearing and amusing, not only because he was positing it as a viable business goal, but also because I knew it wasn’t necessarily something you could do on purpose. While that’s still true now, as our internet fluency has improved over the last decade, so too has our understanding of how “going viral” can also sometimes be distilled into a science.

Viral red carpet outfits are an apt illustration of this new state of affairs. During the 2010s, increasingly, each red carpet seemed to be stocked with at least a few ensembles devised for the express purpose of sparking internet chatter (memes, headlines, tweets, et al.).

So to commemorate the end of the red carpet era that gave birth to this particular brand of fashion strategy, we’re counting down 10 of the most viral red carpet moments, one from each of the past 10 years.

2010: The Year We Met the Meat Dress

You could easily argue that Lady Gaga was one of the foremothers of the 2010s’ viral outfits. Her infamous “meat dress,” which she wore to the MTV Music Video Awards in 2010, is one of the decade’s first memorable instances of a major internet uproar over a red carpet ensemble. In addition to sparking ire from animal rights activists the outfit–made entirely of raw beef–was named one of the top fashion statements of 2010 by Time. It’s now on display at the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame after being preserved as jerky by some enterprising taxidermists.

2011: Nicki Minaj’s Next-Level Monochrome

Nicki Minaj’s extremely memorably full-leopard look at the 2011 Grammys is proof of a truth I’ve turned to numerous times when my creative juices aren’t feeling particularly flow-y but I still need my clothes to speak in exclamation points: monochrome is the most straightforward secret sauce when it comes to making a statement. You’re basically guaranteed to attract an eyeball or two, though Nicki obviously attracted a lot more than that considering her monochrome outfit was televised across the nation.

2012: The Leg Pop That Swept the Internet

Ah, the leg pop tweeted ’round the world–facilitated by a black Versace dress with a slit that wouldn’t quit. Shortly after Angelina Jolie’s red carpet arrival in said dress, a Twitter account with the handle @AngiesRightLeg was launched, garnering more than 12,000 followers within hours. That was only the beginning. The leg pop turned out to be ripe for photoshop fodder, sparking a plethora of memes on Tumblr wherein Jolie’s leg was inserted into everything from the Statue of Liberty to the moon landing. This is a prime example of how a twist of appendage-driven fate can spin even the simplest of black gowns into the viral vortex.

2013: Kim Kardashian’s Tip-to-Toe Floral Extravaganza

Kim Kardashian was already under a pretttttttyyyy fluorescent spotlight before the 2013 Met Gala thanks to her pregnancy with a baby we now know as one North West, who at the time was only a month away from landing earth-side. Thus, it was no surprise that her red carpet look went viral within a nanosecond of its arrival at the event, spurred by the fact that the head-to-toe floral pattern (gloves included) was fertile ground for couch fabric comparisons and Garden State wallpaper camouflage references.

2014: Arguably the Most Famous Red-Carpet Hat of All Time

Pharrell’s ludicrously tall vintage Vivienne Westwood hat inspired a parody Twitter account that still maintains 14,000 followers to this day. Many social media commenters observed that it looked suspiciously similar to the hat in Arby’s logo, prompting the fast food chain to Tweet, “Hey @Pharrell, can we have our hat back?” It was thus a true full-circle moment when Arby’s purchased it in a charity auction for $44,100 later that year.

2015: Rihanna Cracking Eggs at the Met Gala

Rihanna’s GIGANTIC yellow couture look by Chinese designer Guo Pei at the 2015 Met Gala was so meme-able that even I, an infant internet user, couldn’t resist taking a whack at it. In addition to its intrinsically show-stopping, can’t-look-away aesthetic, her dramatic dress and cape also proved to be a field day waiting to happen for various omelette, pizza, and big bird jokes.

2016: Beyoncé’s Post-Lemonade Latex Look

Beyoncé attended the 2016 Met Gala red carpet just days after dropping her album Lemonade, so when she arrived wearing a skin-tight latex gown–which she teased on Instagram beforehand–it was basically guaranteed to accrue viral internet fame. Naturally it was the subject of a veritable meme extravaganza, my favorite drawing a comparison to St. Ives Apricot Scrub, and much private curiosity on my part about how she somehow managed not to look even a little bit sweaty.

2017: Susan Sarandon and Her Sunnies

Susan Sarandon wore a delightfully low-cut, fitted green velvet gown to opening night of the Cannes Film Festival in 2017, sparking headlines like “Susan Sarandon Just Proved Why 70 Is the New 20” and “Susan Sarandon’s Boobs Are the Real Stars at Cannes.” It didn’t hurt that, in addition to defying the so-called “rules” of age-appropriate dressing with fantastic aplomb, Sarandon accessorized her dress with a pair of glamorous, oversized sunglasses and just looked…well…cool. A rarely applicable descriptor in the broader world of red carpet style.

2018: The Fuchsia Dress on Everyone’s Instagram Feed

You know when you’ve been staring into the sun for a beat longer than you probably should and when you blink afterwards, you can see bright spots under your eyelids? That’s basically what happened when the internet witnessed Tracee Ellis Ross wearing a voluminous hot pink Valentino Couture gown at the Emmys in 2018. The enthusiasm for her outfit was boundless, from commentary on how her relationship with stylist Karla Welch was the “most powerful celebrity/stylist alliance out there at the moment” to tongue-in-cheek 911 reports.

2019: Billy Porter’s Legendary Tuxedo Gown

Over the past year, Billy Porter has become a bonafide red carpet legend with his penchant for convention-defying Moments with a capital “M,” experimenting with gender norms and red carpet expectations in equal measure. Though he had many viral looks in 2019, his hybrid tuxedo gown at the Oscars–that took up space literally and figuratively–seemed to solidify his reputation as a notable figure to watch, in multiple respects.

What viral red carpet outfits from the past decade stick out in your memory like sparkly thumbs?

Photos via Getty Images.

The post 10 Viral Looks That Shaped This Decade of Red Carpet Style appeared first on Man Repeller.

Reading Recs: 6 New Books We Loved This Year

The 2010s were a wild decade for book publishing. At the beginning, I put my money on a flash fiction boom—a big moment for stories as short as our attention spans seemed poised to become. But by 2015, I was already proven totally wrong, when one of the most anticipated books on the market was a 900-plus-page debut novel that had fetched a record-breaking $2 million advance. (A Little Life, another literally and figuratively huge book that year, clocked in at 720 pages.) Turns out people wanted to concentrate on something after all.

The books of 2019 have not been extreme in length, but, in other ways, they still tell us a lot about what it’s like to be alive right now. They speak to our desires to become better leaders as a new labor movement kicks off (Leandra’s pick), explore stories related to #MeToo in unique ways (Amalie and Gyan’s picks), and point out that at the end of the day (and decade) a good love story will still always hit the spot. (That one’s Jasmin’s pick.)

So, if you’re looking for one more new book to read before the year ends, here are six that Team MR read and loved.

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

Recommended by: Leandra Medine, Founder & CCO

Six-word synopsis: Self-help but make it corporate.

Why I picked it up: I’m a big fan of Brené Brown’s. I was turned on to her work after listening to her TED Talk on shame all those years ago and it really informed the way I thought and spoke about my difficulty getting pregnant. I’ve kept tabs on her writing and research ever since because, in my view, she seems to espouse the most valuable virtues of Buddhism, but does it for the modern world and from the point of view of an integrated member of society and the workforce. Also, Brown is vulnerable as hell (another gigantic area of research in her overall body of work), which is not typical fare for a business book, but very welcome among heavyweight carriers of capital-F Feelings such as myself.

How it made me feel during the best part: Like I’m fulfilling my ~purpose~.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: While I have no real tangible idea of what “mindfulness” means, “paying attention,” which is how she defines it, is a concept I can get behind.

How I’d recommend it: I’d only recommend it to someone in either a position of leadership, or looking to grow into one. At that point I’d tell them this book encompasses a “soft skill” approach to leading, but that soft skills in leadership are often actually the hardest (and most important) of them all.

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Know My Name by Chanel Miller

Recommended by: Gyan Yankovich, Managing Editor

Six-word synopsis: A survivor is talking, so listen.

Why I picked it up: I thought about the victim statement letter Chanel Miller read to Brock Turner in court, which was published under a pseudonym on BuzzFeed, every day for months. So when I heard she was releasing a book, I knew I had to read it.

How it made me feel during the best part: It’s hard to find a “best part” in this book, but the pride and respect I felt for Miller throughout the whole thing was completely overwhelming.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: It’s okay to wait until you’re ready to tell your story.

How I would recommend it: Simply, this book should be required reading.

[image error]
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Year of the Monkey  by Patti Smith

Recommended by: Sabrina Santiago, Photographer and Photo Editor

Six-word synopsis: A dream-like dictation of Smith’s 2016.

Why I picked it up: I’m a Patti Smith fangirl, 100%.

How it made me feel during the best part: Like I wanted to take a solo cross country trip and only bring a backpack.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: We cannot be without optimism, and we should never stop making pictures.

How I’d recommend it: A beautiful, sincere and honest reflection on mortality—both of the current political landscape and the inevitable parts of life.

[image error]
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Three Women  by Lisa Taddeo

Recommended by: Amalie MacGowan, Social Media Manager

Six-word synopsis: Why must women suffer so much?

Why I picked it up: It was a gift for my 26th birthday from my roommate. I swallowed it whole in about a week.

How it made me feel during the best part: It’s hard to say that there is a “best part” to this book, but the writing would occasionally bring me directly into Taddeo’s narrative–and into her shoes–even though it felt nothing like my experience. It takes a unique finessing of language to do that.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: Like I said, female suffering. But also the warmth, empathy, heart, strength, weakness, and desire that womanhood entails. The only thing I wish this book had more of was diversity of experience. Though I loved the storytelling, I felt like the reader was robbed of the breadth of female experience (considering the stated purpose of the book).

How I’d recommend it: With a quote: “It’s the nuances of desire that hold the truth of who we are at our rawest moments. I set out to register the heat and sting of female want so that men and other women might more easily comprehend before they condemn.”

[image error]
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Modern Love: Stories of Love, Loss and Redemption  by Daniel Jones

Recommended by: Jasmin Aujla, Director of Partnerships

Six-word synopsis: Your go-to for a good cry. (Is that 6 or 7 words?)

Why I picked it up: I forgot my book en-route to Mexico City and picked this up at the airport. It felt like a no-brainer.

How it made me feel during the best part: Understood.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: There’s so much that has been and will be written on the topic of love, and yet it still feels like we’re only scratching the surface.

How I’d recommend it: A collection of short stories that are so touching and heart-wrenching but also uplifting without any of the commitment of having to read a whoooole book.

[image error]
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Normal People  by Sally Rooney

Recommended by: Haley Nahman, Deputy Editor

Six-word synopsis: Rich interior monologues brought to life.

Why I picked it up: I was drawn to the title (which turned out to be perfectly evocative), heard from friends who loved it, and remembered loving this essay by the author about competitive debate.

How it made me feel during the best part: Completely, heartbreakingly connected to the characters. Dramatically invested like I was 15 again and in love with some dude who didn’t know I existed. Understood.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: A story doesn’t need to be complex to resonate.

How I’d recommend it: I feel sheepish recommending such a popular new book, but it’s genuinely the best one I’ve read this year. It will keep you up late, I swear.

[image error]
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Graphic by Lorenza Centi.

The post Reading Recs: 6 New Books We Loved This Year appeared first on Man Repeller.

Reading Recs: The 6 Best New Books We Read This Year

The 2010s were a wild decade for book publishing. At the beginning, I put my money on a flash fiction boom—a big moment for stories as short as our attention spans seemed poised to become. But by 2015, I was already proven totally wrong, when one of the most anticipated books on the market was a 900-plus-page debut novel that had fetched a record-breaking $2 million advance. (A Little Life, another literally and figuratively huge book that year, clocked in at 720 pages.) Turns out people wanted to concentrate on something after all.

The books of 2019 have not been extreme in length, but, in other ways, they still tell us a lot about what it’s like to be alive right now. They speak to our desires to become better leaders as a new labor movement kicks off (Leandra’s pick), explore stories related to #MeToo in unique ways (Amalie and Gyan’s picks), and point out that at the end of the day (and decade) a good love story will still always hit the spot. (That one’s Jasmin’s pick.)

So, if you’re looking for one more new book to read before the year ends, here are six that Team MR read and loved.

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

Recommended by: Leandra Medine, Founder & CCO

Six-word synopsis: Self-help but make it corporate.

Why I picked it up: I’m a big fan of Brené Brown’s. I was turned on to her work after listening to her TED Talk on shame all those years ago and it really informed the way I thought and spoke about my difficulty getting pregnant. I’ve kept tabs on her writing and research ever since because, in my view, she seems to espouse the most valuable virtues of Buddhism, but does it for the modern world and from the point of view of an integrated member of society and the workforce. Also, Brown is vulnerable as hell (another gigantic area of research in her overall body of work), which is not typical fare for a business book, but very welcome among heavyweight carriers of capital-F Feelings such as myself.

How it made me feel during the best part: Like I’m fulfilling my ~purpose~.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: While I have no real tangible idea of what “mindfulness” means, “paying attention,” which is how she defines it, is a concept I can get behind.

How I’d recommend it: I’d only recommend it to someone in either a position of leadership, or looking to grow into one. At that point I’d tell them this book encompasses a “soft skill” approach to leading, but that soft skills in leadership are often actually the hardest (and most important) of them all.

[image error]
Turn on your JavaScript to view content


Know My Name by Chanel Miller

Recommended by: Gyan Yankovich, Managing Editor

Six-word synopsis: A survivor is talking, so listen.

Why I picked it up: I thought about the victim statement letter Chanel Miller read to Brock Turner in court, which was published under a pseudonym on BuzzFeed, every day for months. So when I heard she was releasing a book, I knew I had to read it.

How it made me feel during the best part: It’s hard to find a “best part” in this book, but the pride and respect I felt for Miller throughout the whole thing was completely overwhelming.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: It’s okay to wait until you’re ready to tell your story.

How I would recommend it: Simply, this book should be required reading.

[image error]
Turn on your JavaScript to view content


Year of the Monkey  by Patti Smith

Recommended by: Sabrina Santiago, Photographer and Photo Editor

Six-word synopsis: A dream-like dictation of Smith’s 2016.

Why I picked it up: I’m a Patti Smith fangirl, 100%.

How it made me feel during the best part: Like I wanted to take a solo cross country trip and only bring a backpack.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: We cannot be without optimism, and we should never stop making pictures.

How I’d recommend it: A beautiful, sincere and honest reflection on mortality—both of the current political landscape and the inevitable parts of life.

[image error]
Turn on your JavaScript to view content


Three Women  by Lisa Taddeo

Recommended by: Amalie MacGowan, Social Media Manager

Six-word synopsis: Why must women suffer so much?

Why I picked it up: It was a gift for my 26th birthday from my roommate. I swallowed it whole in about a week.

How it made me feel during the best part: It’s hard to say that there is a “best part” to this book, but the writing would occasionally bring me directly into Taddeo’s narrative–and into her shoes–even though it felt nothing like my experience. It takes a unique finessing of language to do that.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: Like I said, female suffering. But also the warmth, empathy, heart, strength, weakness, and desire that womanhood entails. The only thing I wish this book had more of was diversity of experience. Though I loved the storytelling, I felt like the reader was robbed of the breadth of female experience (considering the stated purpose of the book).

How I’d recommend it: With a quote: “It’s the nuances of desire that hold the truth of who we are at our rawest moments. I set out to register the heat and sting of female want so that men and other women might more easily comprehend before they condemn.”

[image error]
Turn on your JavaScript to view content


Modern Love: Stories of Love, Loss and Redemption  by Daniel Jones

Recommended by: Jasmin Aujla, Director of Partnerships

Six-word synopsis: Your go-to for a good cry. (Is that 6 or 7 words?)

Why I picked it up: I forgot my book en-route to Mexico City and picked this up at the airport. It felt like a no-brainer.

How it made me feel during the best part: Understood.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: There’s so much that has been and will be written on the topic of love, and yet it still feels like we’re only scratching the surface.

How I’d recommend it: A collection of short stories that are so touching and heart-wrenching but also uplifting without any of the commitment of having to read a whoooole book.

[image error]
Turn on your JavaScript to view content


Normal People  by Sally Rooney

Recommended by: Haley Nahman, Deputy Editor

Six-word synopsis: Rich interior monologues brought to life.

Why I picked it up: I was drawn to the title (which turned out to be perfectly evocative), heard from friends who loved it, and remembered loving this essay by the author about competitive debate.

How it made me feel during the best part: Completely, heartbreakingly connected to the characters. Dramatically invested like I was 15 again and in love with some dude who didn’t know I existed. Understood.

The takeaway that’s stuck with me: A story doesn’t need to be complex to resonate.

How I’d recommend it: I feel sheepish recommending such a popular new book, but it’s genuinely the best one I’ve read this year. It will keep you up late, I swear.

[image error]
Turn on your JavaScript to view content

Graphic by Lorenza Centi.

The post Reading Recs: The 6 Best New Books We Read This Year appeared first on Man Repeller.

The Man Repeller Gift Guide Is Here, and It Doubles as a Horoscope

Welcome to the Annual Man Repeller Gift Guide! As you may know, we love throwing a theme party that moonlights as gift-giving advice around here, and this year’s theme is “horoscopes.” A timely celebration of the 2010s’ primary source of digital catnip as this decade come to a close, but also an excuse to create TWELVE highly personalized gift vignettes for your shopping pleasure. We’re breaking them up over the course of the next four days, starting with fire signs and followed by earth, water, and air–so be sure to keep checking back for more treats (think of it like an advent calendar, except you get to eat multiple chocolates at once). Now, without further ado, I’ll hand the mic over to astrological aficionado Sarah Panlibuton Barnes who is far more qualified to wax poetic on the stars and their plans for your presents. -Harling Ross

’Tis the season for schlepping our skin suits across town in the sleet and tumult to be with the people we love. Isn’t it adorable that we like each other enough to leave our individual blanket nests and brave airports and train stations full of human beings literally projectile-sneezing as if they have never once sneezed in public before and have no idea what the proper protocol is? That is how much we want to gather and be merry, and no one gets that more than our social butterfly fire signs: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.

If you took an astrological survey of any given crowd of dogged holiday errand-runners, I reckon you’d find a disproportionate number of fire signs, dressed to the nines and clutching bottles of champagne, squinting against the rain and trudging onward toward the fête. Luckily for their loved ones, no other set of signs in the zodiac lights up the room quite like them! Fire signs are like a Scandinavian hearth decorated for a Hygge-themed spread in a lifestyle magazine. They are the warm crackling fire, the overflowing blanket ladder loaded down with throws, the twinkling lights on a Christmas tree, platters full of pillar candles. They exude passion, jubilance, originality, and warmth.

Now, you’re probably asking yourself: How can we ever repay the fire signs in our lives for all the delight they so benevolently spread wherever they go? Well, buddy, do I have some answers for you! Allow me to serve you this steamin’ hot Fire Sign Gift Guide on a gold platter, replete with luxurious delights and shiny stuff that will please these astrological superstars.

Aries

Aries are the fiery first sign of the zodiac—animated by a contagious joie de vivre. They set trends, they stand up for what they believe in, and they like shiny stuff. They are known for being the first on the dance floor, the first to recommend an edgy party theme, and the first to say, “Hey, should we climb that fire escape?” Think Joan of Arc mixed with Helena Bonham Carter mixed with a powerful wild stallion mixed with a baby.

Satisfy the Aries need to sparkle with these golden baubles and glittering wedges. To layer on the drama, add this fur headband (now 40% off) and help the Aries in your life look like a beautiful upright woodland creature. These oxblood gloves paired with ($8!) headlamp-colored sunglasses and a fancy tiger-print purse will have everyone asking, who’s that girl that looks like the human version of the words “rendezvous” and “mystique” and “sumptuous”? To round it out, give your Aries this extra aesthetically-pleasing set of soaps, because, hey, you can never go wrong with nice soap.

See All 8


Leo

If you have a Leo to shop for this holiday season, there is one important rule to keep in mind: Leos are the star of every show. Are you with me? Here is a pop quiz to check your comprehension. At a baby shower, who is the star of the show?

A. The parents of the human baby.

B. The human baby.

C. The acquaintance from work who came for the charcuterie and champagne but happens to be a Leo.

Correct. The answer is C. Now that we’re all on the same page, may I recommend some prezzies? Spoil the Leos in your life with these rose quartz eye socket massagers to banish any dark circles that result from the late-night carousing that will be requested of them, and if that doesn’t work they can pop on these glittering sunglasses (alternative $68 option here) made with actual crystals and no one will know they even have eyes, let alone dark circles! Stuff ’em both in this pretty woven purse and you will give the gift of portable options for what to do with one’s eyes no matter the circumstance! Show your Leo how committed you are to the highest manifestations of both their style, comfort, and relaxation by pairing these dainty, discounted mules with some luxurious cashmere socks from Elder Statesman and this sexy candle created for people (*cough* Leos *cough*) who project a kind of unpredictable sex appeal.

See All 6


Sagittarius

Shopping for Sag is all about whimsy and surprise. Sagittarius is bored easily and craves novelty and surprise. So here is what I think you should do according to astrology: Gather up these mind-bending espresso cups, this bucket bag that looks as if it were once owned by an empress and is currently on sale for half its original price, this big ol’ shiny gold ring (if you’re in the market for a splurge), and these party-ass sequin velvet boots, leave the presents on the coffee table, and while your lucky recipient is distracted by your excellent gift-giving, pop out from behind some large piece of furniture and yell “SEASON’S GREETINGS!” They’ll love it.

Or! Target your gifting strategy to Sag’s infamous wanderlust. Since Sag is always down for an adventure, set them up in style with one of these watches, with one set to local time and one set to adventure time (or whatever time zone they will be jetting off to next) Don’t forget some stationery so Sag can send you a thank-you note. And just for giggles, pick up this meme game so they have some conversation starters when there’s a lull in conversation at the kasbah.

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Come back tomorrow for all the earth babies in your life! (Then stick around until Thursday and Friday for water and air.)

12 PHOTOS
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Photographer: Cody Guilfoyle

Prop Stylist: Sara Schipani

Art Direction/Production: Sabrina Santiago 

Market: Leandra Medine Cohen, Harling Ross & Elizabeth Tamkin 

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