Did you think we were done with anniversary sales? If theNordstromone didn't quite scratch your beauty itch, you'll be happy to hear Dermstore's got you covered. Starting today through August 17, you can get up to 25% off on all your favorite beauty brands. Simply pop in the promo code CHEERS at checkout to see the $$ drop — and to also earn a free gift on orders of $175 or more. Whether you're in the market for a new cleanser, a reader-favorite texturizing spray, or an internet-famous foot mask, the Dermstore Anniversary Sale should be a top destination for you right now.
If waiting for the biggest sale before buying anything is your game, then this is it for Dermstore. Don't leave your bathroom cabinet empty in prepping for the season changing, when you can stock up now on all your essentials. We're talking brands like NuFace, Living Proof, CORSX, Caudalie, and so much more — all for a major deal. So, click ahead to see what's totally worth the discount.
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The cycle of hot cosmic summer love is almost complete, all thanks to the movement of Venus, the Planet of Love. First, Venus was in Gemini, amping up our need for coy flirtations and playing the field. Next, it headed into Cancer, making us crave connection and comfort. Now, Venus is entering Leo on August 11, and for the next three weeks we’ll be wanting to show up and show out for love — it’s what we’ve been preparing for all along.
“Love expands and grows stronger with Venus in this sign,” says Iva Naskova, astrologer at the Nebula app. “Since Leo is naturally very glamorous and noticeable, our love life tends to go in that direction.” We’ll be craving affection and attention from everyone (hey, it’s Leo season after all), but most of all our partners or potential love interests. “We all can be a bit more demanding regarding our needs, and Venus in Leo might increase your criteria for what you look for in a partner,” says Nakova. “This is because Leo always has to be the best, therefore has to have the best for themselves.” We may be a bit picky during this time about who gets the chance to bask in our love and attention, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing — sometimes being choosy with where we put our energy can end up protecting us in the long run.
We’ll be a bit more fiery and fierce now than we were while Venus was in Cancer. “Singles will pursue new love interests, and couples will sink into that old-school Hollywood romance style people have forgotten about,” says Narayana Montúfar, senior astrologer for Astrology.com and author of Moon Signs: Unlock Your Inner Luminary Power. “Venus in Leo is about big and bold displays of affection, bringing fire to our romantic lives.” Think John Cusack holding a boom box outside of a bedroom window or Heath Ledger singing his heart out on the football field — that’s the kind of Venus in Leo, old-school romance we’re talking about here.
Take inspo from those big gestures of love, because now is the time to turn up the romance factor in your partnerships, whether you’re new lovers or committed partners. Montúfar says that going that extra mile — showing up to dates with flowers, planning spontaneous getaways, focusing on your partner’s love language more than usual — will be rewarded and incredibly refreshing under this energy. And for those who are currently single but crushing, this is the perfect opportunity for you to take a chance. “For those who have been wanting to declare their love to someone, Venus in Leo is perfect for that, as people will be craving connection and attention,” Montúfar continues.
The Planet of Love will have some big events over the next few weeks. First, it’ll connect with Jupiter, the Planet of Luck and Abundance, on August 18. “Astrologically speaking, this is the love-at-first-sight aspect, as it is one of the most positive days for romance because it unites the two benefic planets, aka the nicest energy in our solar system,” says Montúfar. Although love is the main character of this day, this transit is also beneficial for friends, family, and enjoying life in general.
On August 26, Venus will square Uranus in Taurus, which Montúfar says will bring surprises and unexpected developments in love and all relationships. “Under this aspect, some of us will seek freedom, and if we don’t receive it, we might act in radical ways,” she says. “Singles will be attracted to people who are not their type, gravitating more towards eccentric and out-of-the-ordinary love interests.” If you’re in a partnership, you may want to take some time to yourself or a plan a day out with friends instead of holing up with your S.O. This day has major one-night-stand-energy, too — take that as you will.
Watch out for August 28, when Venus in Leo opposes Saturn retrograde. This aspect will “make us want to be solo and alone to contemplate matters,” says Lisa Stardust, astrologer and author of The Love Deck. “Therefore, this is the time in which we are breaking out and shaking up relationship dynamics.” Astrologer Stephanie Campos agrees, and says that “serious conversations within our closest connections may take place,” around this time. “There is drive and determination to achieve something, but we’ll have to put in the hard work and have the tough conversations to reach our end goal.” Although we’re all about love this summer, there could be some break-up vibes around this time — just remember to communicate clearly and be respectful during any relationship woes.
When the Planet of Love is in Leo, anything is possible. Go big in love, but also remember to give yourself space to love and take care of yourself. If you’re not actively feeding your own fire, how will you be able to keep anyone else warm?
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Picture it: You’re walking along the Seine with a chocolate hazelnut crepe in one hand and your partner’s hand in the other. Just ahead, the Eiffel Tower twinkles against the inky night sky, illuminating your face in romantic lighting. Unable to resist, you lean in for a passionate kiss, body igniting into sparks of desire, pulses quickening and blood heating as your hands start to — okay, I’ll stop there. You get the idea. But what if you could bring that French ambiance into your bedroom? If you’re nodding oiu-oiu, it’s time to say “bonjour” to the L’Ultimate Lovers Kit from Frenchie.
If you’re a Francophile not yet familiar with Frenchie, you’re in for a treat. Though the brand, which launched in 2020, is actually Australia-based, each of its products is imbued with France’s legendary sex symbol status. Everything from its signature vibrator (a double-ended clit and G-spot stimulator aptly named The Double Entendre) to Beret Condoms (because what are condoms if not stylish hats?) borrow inspiration from the City of Love, making them a fun and surprisingly adventurous addition to your sexy times. If that already sounds good, we have a deal that will push your pleasure over the edge. Right now, you can get $15 off Frenchie’s L’Ultimate Lovers Kit.
The Lovers Kit has everything you could possibly need for a sexy rendezvous, either alone or with a paramour. I was lucky enough to receive it and was thrilled to explore the box of goodies one by one, imagining the kind of sexy, fun-filled night it could lead to. Available in two French-themed colorways (melon or bleu), the box contains expected (but still elevated) staples: a vegan water-based lubricant, which is infused with skin-soothing aloe; lubricated condoms made with ultra-moisturizing hyaluronic acid; and individually wrapped biodegradable cleansing wipes. But I was most delighted to see some more titillating items as well, making it clear that this Lovers Kit is nowhere near basic. It has an extra je ne sais quoi for the more sexually adventurous.
The Le Masque Silk Play Mask and Lovers Dice Set are a perfect kinky combination to get your evening of pleasure started. I suggest covering your eyes with the 100% pure silk mask (which was just as soft as advertised) and putting the fate of your evening into the hands of the dice, which suggest a combination of actions and body parts like — blow ear or kiss thigh, etc. — for a total of 36 possible ways to begin your evening romp.
One reviewer raves, “Its shape, size and flexibility means that it can hit *that* spot, wherever yours is.” Another reviewer who also enjoyed its multiple uses gushes, “I would give it 10 stars if possible it is so versatile and works great with partner or on your own. The dual headed motors put it in a league of its own also the fact that you can bend it and it stays in place is amazing. We had a number of other toys that we threw away once we got this one. I honestly don’t know who likes it more…”
My naughty weekend was set.
Diana, frenchie reviewer
As the brand’s mission statement reads, “Frenchie has been created for a new generation of lovers that echo our belief that sex should be fun, natural, simple and safe for everyone,” which is exactly what this kit embodied. So, whether you’re looking for a sensual night in with your cherie, still looking for a handsome stranger to ask “voulez-vous coucher avec moi,” or you just want to watch Moulin Rouge and spend some alone time with Christian and Satine (or is that just a me thing?), the L’Ultimate Lovers Kit has everything you need. And we mentioned it’s on sale, right? Do your love life a favor and just say “oui.”
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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The aspirational influencer narrative creates a captivating and timely allegory — if not cautionary tale — for a film or television protagonist on a quest of self-discovery and recognition. Of course, what these characters wear is essential to their (disseminated-through-the-internet) journeys, as they seek validation from society at large, their peers and perhaps their harshest critics: themselves.
At the surface, Instagram-worthy outfits and clout-chasing designer labels worn by our favorite on-screen characters — like in "Emily in Paris," costume designed by Patricia Field and Marylin Fitoussi — create a riveting fashion fantasy. The eye candy keeps us clicking into the next episodes, and has been proven to inspire our wardrobes. But these outfits are also sending a message.
As she finds professional success, Chicago-transplant Emily (Lily Collins) evolves from wearingringarde Eiffel Tower prints in the pilot to confident, Old Hollywood-referential ensembles on a dream jaunt to Saint Tropez in season two. (Healthy romantic relationships? Still working on it.) Music industry scion Julien Calloway (Jordan Alexander) uses her social media dominance — and access to ripped-from-the-runway Christopher John Rogers — to assert her superiority over younger half-sister Zoya (Whitney Peak) in "Gossip Girl" 2.0, thanks to returning costume designer Eric Daman. In a soapier-than-real-life take on the Anna Delvey scandal, Julia Garner's titular character in "Inventing Anna" tips hundred-dollar bills and cycles through a montage of high-end designer clothing and handbags at the height of her grift. (Credit to costume designer Lyn Paolo for also using fashion to help illustrate greater society's predilection to glom onto — and readily cast off — the latest shiny new thing with lots of Instagram followers, too.)
"Have you ever wanted to be noticed so badly, you didn't even care what it was for?" asks wannabe writer Danni Sanders (Zoey Deutch) at the start of the Gen-Z social-media satire "Not Okay," which comes out Friday.
Danni (Zoey Deutch), in a Reformation dress, fakes a trip to Paris.
Photo: Amber Asaly/Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures
Adrift in life and sartorial self-expression, Danni toils as a photo editor at Depravity, while crushing on the Vice-like outlet's resident weed-fluencer, Colin (a bleached-blond Dylan O'Brien). Editor Susan (Negin Farsad) regularly rejects Danni's tone-deaf pitches, like "Why Am I So Sad?" (She feels left out of the generational trauma of 9/11 because she was on vacation with her affluent parents.) Using her Photoshop skills, Danni Instagram-fakes a trip to Paris with flat-lays of Bushwick-procured croissants, a very on-the-nose red beret and a blue floral Reformation dress (above).
"She basically has no style, other than 'messy,'" says "Not Okay" Costume Designer Sarah Laux (who influenced my own wardrobe with Zoë Kravitz's square-toe boots and vintage leather jackets in Hulu's tragically-canceled "High Fidelity").
Danni — whose closet is full of disposable fast fashion, like a Shein argyle sweater, flares from Urban Outfitters and Steve Madden platform slides — would probably consider Reformation the epitome of "French Girl Style."
"Danni doesn't know fashion history. She doesn't necessarily even have good taste. She's just a consumer," says Laux. "She just takes and takes and takes and then sheds it."
"Not Okay" isn't the only new on-screen influencer depiction. After being relegated to obscurity for all of high school (in part because that might release the teen from purgatory), senior Erika Vu (Lana Condor) and best friend Gia (Zoe Colletti) decide to live life to the fullest in Netflix series "Boo, Bitch." As Erika's popularity at school and online grows, she begins to emulate the click-worthy style — and self-absorbed behavior — of homecoming queen and established influencer Riley (Aparna Brielle).
Erika Vu (Lana Condor), in getting her views and likes in 'Boo, Bitch.'
Photo: Erik Voake/Courtesy of Netflix
Costume Designer Lindy McMichael describes Erika's flashy feathers, flame pants from Fashion Nova and head-to-toe metallic blue ensemble by Club Exx (above) for a school-hallway TikTok dance as "an over-styled explosion." Like Laux, she took a deep dive into very-Y2K-referential Zoomer influencers and studied imagery from contemporary label Dolls Kill and early-2000s Delia's catalogs.
"Erika goes to town on all of the imagery that she has always admired and seen on influencers on Instagram and TikTok. She mixes it all together and has a heyday with it," says McMichael. "It plays into her making these extremely stylized decisions because she's gonna do everything that she never did — zero apologies."
Homecoming queen Riley (Aparna Brielle) and Erika, with her LV bag, twinning.
Photo: Erik Voake/Courtesy of Netflix
As their followings grow, Erika and Danni notably begin carrying a designer bag everywhere. McMichael found Erika's circa-2010s Louis Vuitton Demier duffle (above) on The RealReal. "Society loves the status symbol," says McMichael. "As Erika's power and feeling of invincibility grows, [she carries] these bossy signs of power, like a status symbol."
Behind the scenes, Danni's influencer-beloved Prada Re-Edition 2005 Re-Nylon bag (below) was actually procured through star Deutch's relationship with the luxury label. But Laux imagined that Danni's parents gave it to her for the holidays, and that she carries the "prized possession" everywhere as "that piece of courage." The $1,850 handbag, in a delicate and easy-to-stain soft gray, illustrates Danni's flawed decision-making instincts: "She's got a thing that could be an investment piece, and she's chosen the wrong color."
'Not Okay' director Quinn Shepherd with Deutch in costume, carrying the Prada bag.
Photo: Amber Asaly/Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures
Both Erika's and Danni's ascension to Internet fame is also represented through the preeminent influencer perk: swag. Erika treats her new followers to unboxing videos, while schooling her disappointed and confused parents on the definition of "gifting." (In a moment of Netflix synergy, Erika could have directed her parents to last year's "He's All That," in which Addison Rae's Padgett Sawyer sports a spon-con wardrobe, as written into the script; the real-life TikTok sensation actually helped stock the wardrobe with her own brand relationships.) As Colin's plus-one to an influencer party, Danni discovers the joy of gift bags, while exhibiting her penchant for cultural appropriation with a revealing take on a Chinese qipao by Kim Shui (below) and knee-high boots by Paris Texas. (For AAVE-pilfering Colin, Laux looked to the likes of Eminem, Pete Davidson and Machine Gun Kelly to inform his Balenciaga T-shirt, Saint Laurent sneakers and Basquiat pants.)
"That moment is maximum cringe, like it's cheugy to the nth degree," says Laux, who also experienced her own online "blowback" for the dress, which some took as culturally disrespectful. "I did it on purpose. It's just so wrong, all over the place — yet Danni's like, 'This is the thing.'"
Danni, in her qipao dress, samples some swag at an influencer party with Colin (Dylan O'Brien), wearing a Balenciaga T-shirt.
Photo: Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures
Danni's entitlement and white privilege peak when she joins a trauma support group, with the intention of co-opting authentic experiences to write a personal essay about her fake Paris trip. She immediately latches onto school shooting survivor Rowan (Mia Isaac), who legitimately amassed a social media following through her activism. And as Danni's fraudulent Depravity story and accompanying hashtag — #IAmNotOkay — go viral, she steals Rowan's self-assured, retro-skater plaid shirts and baby tee aesthetic.
"Once she meets Rowan, she really starts to understand what she can capitalize on," says Laux.
Rowan (Mia Isaac) and Danni at a gun control rally.
Photo: Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures
"The Good Wife" and "The Good Fight" co-creators Michelle and Robert King are no strangers to satirizing socio-political issues through their inventive storytelling. In their supernatural thriller series "Evil," beauty vlogger Malindaz (Taylor Louderman, below) becomes an ideal vessel to depict the, erm, evils of our tech-addicted society. Instead of buying followers, Malindaz literally makes a deal with the devil to boost her numbers: In season two, she imparts damaging body-image messages like, "What to do in a Thunder Thigh emergency." By the third, she's shilling crypto.
"The influencers — in our world, at least — do what they do for self-interests and self-success, and to make money and to get what they want," says Dan Lawson, the Kings' go-to costume designer. "There's not a lot of substance behind the visual."
Malindaz, ready to sell you crypto on season three of 'Evil.'
Photo: Elizabeth Fisher/Courtesy of Paramount+
Lawson emphasizes that he didn't look to any social-media personalities for Malindaz's very specific, "over-the-top" and "ultra-put-together" look, which features a mix of bold colors, textures and shapes — especially at the neckline. He wanted to create a unique, eye-catching look that would compel an always-scrolling Instagram, TikTok or VidTap user to immediately stop and look. For Malindaz's power-summit with (possibly possessed?!) executive Sheryl (Christine Lahti) to discuss crypto spon, her splashy outfit sent another deliberate message.
"Nothing was normal," says Lawson. "Everything was extra and flouncy and just annoying."
Like a Shakespearean Five-Act Structure, the archetypical influencer storyline often includes an appropriate falling action stage: being canceled.
'As a close friend you should allow me to grow…. my following,' says Erika, in a Danielle Guizio jacket, to her best friend Gia (Zoe Coletti, left).
Photo: Courtesy of Netflix
As her OTT fashion (and feathers) escalate, Erika's close relationships with Gia and her supportive parents plummet. Her self-serving efforts to give "a voice to my generation," as Erika says with zero irony, blow up in her face.
"She's drinking her own Kool-Aid," says McMichael. "She's turning her back on the people who are the most important in her life. But for a moment in time, she's getting a taste of what she always dreamed of living. She's doing it, unapologetically, and then realizes that's not the best path. That's not her truest self."
After Danni’s deception is revealed, she faces vicious trolls, her editor, a hurt and betrayed Rowan and the motivations behind her inauthenticity. So, naturally, she attends an "online shaming support group" meeting. "It's like meta on meta on meta," says Laux of costume-designing for the attendees, which include the movie's writer-director Quinn Shephard. In character, she wears a black leather mini-skirt and a "The Future of Film is Female" T-shirt, which she actually donned for a real industry panel (below).
"So we're supposed to feel bad for you?" the faux Quinn ask Danni, with zero self-awareness. "You say you've learned but at the end of the day you're a privileged white girl who thinks she's the main character."
Danni's immediately admonished by the support group's leader, played by — in another wink-wink moment — by Caroline Calloway, in her signature flower crown and sweatshirt dress.
"I almost un-costumed it because I went for real. I went for what all of these people really look like," says Laux, who asked Calloway and Shephard to bring in their own clothes as options.
Like on Instagram and TikTok, fashion in movies and bingeable shows keep the intended messaging on-brand.
"I'm also completely and totally taking the piss at all times," Laux adds. "Like, I'm actively making fun of this, and, yes, [Danni] does look good."
These are the stories making headlines in fashion on Thursday.
Good American announces first flagship store Early next year, customers will be able to shop at Good American's first-ever physical flagship store at Westfield Century City in Los Angeles, featuring its fully inclusive line of denim, ready-to-wear, swim and shoes. This marks the Khloe Kardashian and Emma Grede-founded brand's first foray into physical retail, expanding on its existing direct-to-consumer presence on GoodAmerican.com and wholesale partnerships with Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Revolve.com and more. {Fashionista inbox}
Photo: Courtesy of Levi's
Levi's is relaunching SilverTab The classic denim brand is reviving the styles and fits of the original '90s SilverTab collection, which was known for its baggy styles and roots in the '90s hip-hop and skateboard scene. (It awas briefly revived in 2018 and featured in Levi's SecondHand capsule in 2020.) The new collection features brand new oversized, '90s-inspired featured in a campaign with actors Hayley Law and Gavin Leatherwood. Levi's® SilverTab™ is available now ($29.50 to $108) on Levis.com. {Fashionista inbox}
Chanel will present its cruise 2022 collection in Miami On Nov. 3, Chanel will present its French Riveria-inspired cruise collection for a second time after it debuted at the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel in May. The upcoming show comes 14 years after Chanel's first show in Miami when Karl Lagerfeld chose the Raleigh Hotel to present the 2008-09 cruise collection. The brand also opened a new store in the Florida city's Design District last December. {WWD}
Photo: Courtesy of KimChi Chic Beauty
Trixie Mattel and Kim Chi release "BFF4EVR" makeup collaboration After an intense (promotional) Twitter feud last weekend, former "RuPaul's Drag Race" stars Trixie Mattel and Kim Chi are releasing the BFF4EVR collection. The collection will include a 20-pan eyeshadow palette, blush & highlight duos and semi-matte & liquid lipsticks, along with a dramatic folding fan for super fans. The products will be available through Kim Chi's own makeup line, where 2% of all sales go to The Trevor Project. BFF4EVR is available now at kimchichicbeauty.com. {Fashionista inbox}
Photo: Courtesy of Dave & Buster's x Bobblehaus
Dave & Buster's releases fashion collaboration with Bobblehaus The arcade giant is releasing its first-ever fashion collaboration with gender-inclusive and sustainably minded brand Bobblehaus. The Bobblehaus x Dave & Buster's capsule taps into Bobblehaus founders Abi Lierheimer and Ophelia Chen's childhood memories of visiting Dave & Buster arcades throughout the years. The capsule will be available starting on July 27, and the only way you can get it is by playing games and redeeming your tickets at 10 Dave & Buster's locations nationwide, including NYC, L.A. and Miami. {Fashionista inbox}
There are 109 designers confirmed on the New York Fashion Week lineup, including Altuzarra, Brandon Maxwell, Carolina Herrera, Christian Siriano, Coach, Gabriela Hearst, Jason Wu, Khaite, LaQuan Smith, Luar, Markarian, Michael Kors, Peter Do, Prabal Gurung, Sergio Hudson, Theophilio, Tory Burch, Victor Glemaud and Willy Chavarria. (Last year, IMG introduced a new program dubbed the IMG Fashion Alliance, which supports designers that commit to showing their collections in New York.) We also see Tommy Hilfiger and Area returning, and three international brands — Fendi, Marni and Cos — make an appearance.
As far as New York Fashion Week newcomers, we have the finalists for the 2022 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, many of whom haven't shown on the calendar before: Fe Noel, Sukeina, No Sesso, Elena Velez, Judy Turner, Wiederhoeft and BlackBoyKnits will all be showcasing their latest collections in New York. Meanwhile, AnOnlyChild, Ashlyn, Heron Preston, Foo and Foo, Midnight Studios, One/Of by Patricia Voto and Tia Adeola join, with their debuts on the official schedule.
"This year marks the 60th anniversary of the CFDA, and as the organizer of the official NYFW schedule, we are incredibly proud to release a lineup that reflects our founding principle: to promote American fashion on a global scale," Steven Kolb, the organization's CEO, said in a statement. "We celebrate the collective excellence, diversity and resilience of our industry and look forward to a strong American collections season alongside our esteemed international guests."
The CFDA noted that all in-person events on the schedule "will take place in accordance with New York State Health Guidelines," and that it will release an updated Covid-19 Health & Safety Memo ahead of New York Fashion Week.
See the preliminary schedule for New York Fashion Week here.
Cos Cropped Single-Breasted Waistcoat, $120, available here (sizes 2-14).
Editors' Picks are the Fashionista team's true (#notspon) fashion and beauty obsessions, handpicked by professionals who see it all.
From cozy sleeveless knits to buttoned-up waistcoats, the vest trend is still going strong, and remains an ideal piece for the summer-to-fall transition coming up.
While temperatures remain high, they look great with nothing underneath; you can even pair them with short-shorts for a Kate-Moss-at-Glastonbury moment. And as things start to cool down, they're easy to style over T-shirts and button-downs, or with pants and a blazer for a three-piece-suit moment.
I bought into the trend a few months ago and have found this slightly cropped, slightly boxy waistcoat from Cos to be particularly versatile. It's black, for one, and looks great with black trousers for a suited-up look, as well as jeans for a more casual approach. I've noticed the same vest on a number of other editors and influencers, and it can also look great unbuttoned over a tank top or paired with a pair of also-trendy long, baggy shorts. The possibilities are endless.
Cos Cropped Single-Breasted Waistcoat, $120, available here (sizes 2-14).
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For me, there are few beauty struggles as frustrating as breaking a nail or chipping a freshly-painted manicure. That, paired with my lack of patience for spending hours sitting at a salon, has made me an easy convert to press-ons. I've become a die-hard fan of DIY pop-on manicures, but they're not without their own set of flaws — mainly that they don't last nearly as long as regular gel polish. That is, until the creative minds of beauty TikTok entered the chat and introduced a genius hack to give press-on nails an upgrade and far more staying power: combining UV gel with fake nails. The goal is to get weeks of wear and salon-level quality and shine, often for drugstore prices.
When pandemic precautions forced nail salons to close up shop in 2020, lots of people learned to do their own nails, tired of sitting at home staring down their unkempt cuticles. Plenty of my friends purchased UV lamps and began to do their own at-home gel manicures, while I stood by my basic trusty press-ons through it all. But with TikTok's beauty community finding a way to marry the best of both worlds — using gel kits to cure press-ons as if they were gel extensions — I became curious to try it out for myself.
TikTok user Yesy Ada has shared multiple viral videos showcasing her approach to curing press-ons, including one with more than 2 million views and counting. In her TikToks, Ada makes it look easy: With a pair of Amazon press-ons on standby, Ada applies a layer of Beetles Nail Glue and cures it underneath a UV lamp. She then adds gel to the back of her press-on nail, as one would a gel extension, before placing it on and flash-curing that, too.
After she finishes all five fingers, she pops them back underneath the lamp for another 60 seconds, drills off any excess gel and files down the nails. Ada finishes with a layer of soak-off gel top coat, cures again, and she's done.
The result? A surprisingly easy manicure that looks as if she's gone to a top salon. After watching her videos, I doom-scrolled through a few more users' attempts before debating my own UV lamp purchase.
"There's no way for anyone to say that this is a totally safe and foolproof method because you're mixing two systems that weren't originally made for each other," Park cautions. "Gel works best with gel. And press-ons have their own systems, usually with glue. Most nail products work best when used with the system they were intended for."
Another concern is user error associated with DIY jobs: Improper application or removal of gel-cured press-ons could cause damage to your nails and the skin around them, so Park advises anyone considering trying the trend to practice, practice, practice. "Everyone's hands are different, and even between two hands, the nails on either hand can be slightly different," she says.
Park also cautions first-time users of the Gel-X Kit or any other at-home gel kits against overdoing it on the amount of product they use. "A common mistake is for first-time users to use too much gel and have it spill out onto the skin around the nail," says Park. "Any gel product is really meant only for the nail plate. Regular exposure of gel products onto the skin can cause skin irritation to occur."
Of course, if you're bold enough to try the trend, Park recommends the Gel-X Kit, which comes with everything you need, plus the brand's own own gel extension tips to use instead of press-ons: "Press-ons are a great place to start experimenting in fun nails, but if you're then moving onto using gel, I highly recommend experiencing Gel-X. Our system offers durable, long lasting nails that are easy to apply and great to wear."
With all of Park's wisdom to guide me, I (cautiously) decided to try using the TikTok-viral method in conjunction with the Gel-X Kit and my favorite press-ons, the Kiss Bare But Better Nails. Once I decided on the right nail for each finger, I found it surprisingly simple to layer on the proper coats of polish and cure accordingly.
My nails looked as good as my press-ons usually do, but felt infinitely sturdier. Granted, it was a little annoying to have to soak them off salon-style instead of flick the press-ons off one by one (my guilty pleasure), but for me, the longevity was well worth the extra effort to remove them.
I've always been a press-ons girl at heart, so I can confidently say I'll continue to apply them with this gel-cured method whenever I have the time. The UV lamp and kit might be a bit of a splurge in one go, but when I consider what I've spent at salons in years past, it's actually a smarter buy.
If you're keen to put your trust in TikTok and give the trend a try, find a few of my favorite press-ons below for some mani motivation to get started.
Please note: Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. This in no way affects our editorial decision-making.
The idea of people going online to watch NSFW material isn’t anything new. For decades, viewers have been covertly opening incognito tabs on their laptops, firing up sites like YouPorn and Pornhub, and consuming adult entertainment from the comfort of their own homes. But for those in the sex work industry, the pandemic accelerated a push to online interactions. Platforms like OnlyFans took off. But while these platforms explicitly allow creators to share sexual content, a number of creators are using more mainstream streaming sites, like Twitch and YouTube, to share what might be seen as NSFW content — within reason — and they’re making money, and building careers, off of it.
For popular streamer Amouranth, the decision to stream sexy content wasn’t the plan from the start of her time on Twitch. Instead, it was a gradual transition. “I never had planned to do it,” she tells Refinery29, “But the opportunity was fairly good and a lot of girls were getting into it, so I was just like, wow, I could do that, too.”
She first joined Twitch in 2016 after the streaming platform invited her to share her cosplay costumes online as a way to promote more artistic content. For years, the 28-year-old Houston-based content creator, who declined to share her full name, citing privacy concerns, streamed every day and was steadily growing her audience on the platform. Then in 2019, shortly after Twitch established the “IRL” category, now called “Just Chatting,” which allowed creators to connect with audiences in a more face-to-face way, her viewership skyrocketed.
Amouranth started doing more outdoor and live content at cosplay events, but also from her backyard and an inflatable pool. With her “pools, hot tubs, and beaches” streams — another category launched by Twitch in May 2021 — her following and her income has grown. Often the creator is in a string bikini, sometimes in a cheetah print, other times black and red, perched on a white stool in a maroon and white-lined kiddie pool. A purple neon sign emblazoned with “Shameless” lights the scene, as Amouranth — alongside other creators like Alinity — try hot sauce or talk about her dogs. In other videos under the same category, she still wears her bikini, but instead plays Raid, a popular video game.
Her bikini-clad streams have, perhaps unsurprisingly, proven popular — and lucrative. As one of Twitch’s top creators, she now boasts over 5 million followers. Currently, Amouranth says she averages around $100,000 a month from Twitch alone, with the number increasing based on ads or sponsorships. “It wasn’t very hard to know it was working for me because my view count went from about 4,000 views [on a video] on average to 10,000 and 13,000, hitting 20,000 and occasionally 30,000.”
Anyone on in the internet will probably know that sexually-charged or implied content is kind of complicated. Primarily because how people view this content changes vastly from person to person — as it does for the platforms streamers might be creating on. Facebook has long been seen as anything but sex-positive, while other platforms like OnlyFans have infamously flip flopped, ultimately landing on the side of supporting and allowing sexual content. Part of the issue with streaming comes from the fact that, at least when it comes to Hot Tubs, Pools, and Beaches, there’s a blurry line between what’s viewed as sex work or sexual and what’s just kind of sexy. (It’s important to note that Amouranth doesn’t classify her videos as sex work, but rather “variety streaming.”)
new Twitch.Player("twitch-embed", { video: "1533626745" });
This is an issue Twitch ran into earlier last year, launching the designated category in response to critics who were uncomfortable with bikini-clad content under the “Just Chatting” category. In a 2021 blog post, Twitch shared the company’s stance on hot tub stream content, stating: “While we have guidelines about sexually suggestive content, being found to be sexy by others is not against our rules, and Twitch will not take enforcement action against women, or anyone on our service, for their perceived attractiveness.” In a statement to Refinery29, the company elaborated on their decision, saying: “Sexually suggestive content — and where to draw the line — is very complex and highly subjective. In response to community feedback, we have been making steady advances over the past year to better clarify our stance and empower audiences to filter content they may not wish to see on Twitch.” Twitch added, “No one deserves to be harassed for the content they choose to stream, how they look, or who they are, and we will take action against anyone who perpetuates toxicity against streamers who are following our Community Guidelines.”
For Amouranth, the decision by Twitch to create a dedicated category for this type of content makes sense, and she sees it as a positive sign. “I think it shows that they’re not deciding to strike down against women and their bodies and that they’re supportive of it and they just want to find a solution and make everyone happy, for their creators and the viewers and the advertisers,” she says.
“Companies will use attractive women to draw in customers and remain memorable. So I definitely do find that annoying, but that’s just how the world is and instead of feeling bitter about it. I just decided to capitalize on it.”
Amouranth
And, it follows her own ethos. Much of the general pushback Amouranth has received hasn’t come from advertisers or streamers outside of the more NSFW content, “there’s actually more of a bias just from certain viewers,” she says. This takes on a lot of different forms, from people shaming the mostly female creators for showing their bodies on screen, to men who hate to see said women profit and become successful on a still largely male-dominated platform. (According to a recent report, in 2020, 65% of Twitch users were male.)
And part of this is probably tied to the fact that there’s still so much stigma associated on women’s bodies as sexual objects — and maybe seeing them in all their human glory, essentially just existing — be it while playing video games, swimming, or talking to followers about their day, will help curb that. “I feel like it actually would do the world better if people were more desensitized to human bodies, specifically female bodies,” she says. “If they can just get used to seeing girls in bikinis, maybe they stop freaking out about it and acting weird about it…I feel like this is my body. I’m human. You have a body, too. And we should all just get over it and look past that and move on.”
Plus, in a way, using perceptions about her body is a way of kind of gaming the system to her advantage. ”It doesn’t really bother me, because I kind of just view the world as that’s the way it is,” Amouranth says. “Companies will use attractive women to draw in customers and remain memorable. So I definitely do find that annoying, but that’s just how the world is and instead of feeling bitter about it. I just decided to capitalize on it.”
It’s a smart business decision too, for both Twitch and the creators on the platform. Across Twitch are a number of creators whose accounts are, like Amouranth, classified as “diverse.” On Amouranth’s channel, you can find hot tub streams alongside videos of her gaming, hosting game shows with other creators, and playing with or educating viewers on her dogs (she has an exotic breed, a Caucasian Shepherd, that she bought to protect her from stalkers).
Streaming and curating her content this way has allowed Amouranth to become an entrepreneur, allowing her the freedom to choose her lifestyle and dreams. “I have a lot of animals and I want to get a ranch and even more animals. So something that allows me to invest and pretty much move wherever I want is really nice,” she says. “I don’t have to be inconvenienced by an office job where I have to clock in hours.”
But like most streamers, Amouranth faces tremendous pressure to capitalize on the moment, something she has become even more aware of as viewership has gone down as people have started to leave their homes after the height of the pandemic. And it can be stressful to feel like there’s a ticking clock on your career longevity, and how behind streamers may be if they need to turn to more traditional careers. “Even though [I make] a lot of money, since we’re all using these platforms during the prime of our life and most people are starting to get really into their careers and networking, none of us are doing that in a professional world kind of sense,” she says. “So if we got banned everywhere or social media just exploded or became irrelevant, it’s very scary to think about having to find a traditional job because we put so many years of our prime time into the media space.”
Earlier this year, Amouranth announced that she’d be moving off of her other platforms — including OnlyFans — and pledged to focus her time on Twitch, including developing a series of shows on the platform. In May, Amouranth produced Streamer Royale, a game show in which popular streamers faced each other in physical competitions. “I feel like my business is in a place where I can make those kinds of investments now and not worry about if I’m going to have enough money if it doesn’t work out,” she says.
Ultimately, Amouranth is using her success to invest in her profession both online and IRL. She wants to open an animal sanctuary and lean hard into producing more content for Twitch. And, her current content is helping her get there. “Right now the appeal [for viewers] might be initially like, ooh girl in a bikini, but there’s so much more [to me].”
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After wrapping her latest starring role on Netflix’s limited series “Keep Breathing,” Melissa Barrera hasn’t only solidified her spot in Hollywood — she has also learned how to survive in the wilderness.
Premiering July 29, and currently ranking as Netflix’s most-streamed show in the U.S., “Keep Breathing” is a survival mini-series about a New York lawyer, Liv, who is flying to Canada to visit her estranged mother when her plane crashes in the wilderness. Alone, each 40-minute episode shows Liv trying to figure out how to escape alive. With flashbacks from Liv’s complicated relationships with her parents and boyfriend, she must learn critical lessons about herself if she’s ever going to pull through in the wild.
Liv’s resilience is a key component of the show — and also of Barrera’s career. From the age of 10, the Monterrey-born actress knew that she wanted a career in entertainment. After graduating from a performing arts school, where she appeared in the school’s musical productions of “Grease,” “Aida,” and “Footloose,” she turned her dreams into a plan, leaving Mexico at 18 for the U.S. to study her passion at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.
From there, the now 32-year-old actress has had roles in telenovelas like “Siempre tuya Acapulco” and “Tanto amor,” shows like “Vida,” as well as films like “In the Heights” and “Scream.” But with “Keep Breathing,” the rising talent sees her first mainstream leading role — and if Netflix’s streams are any indication, it’s a hit.
Ahead of the series’ premiere, Barrera opened up to Somos about how she prepared for the role, tapping into Liv’s mind to gain survival lessons of her own, and the Latinas who have inspired her trajectory.
Congratulations! “Keep Breathing” is a thrilling new series, and you’re amazing in it. How did you prepare to turn into Liv each day?
Oh my God! It was [wild.] I don’t think I did anything to prepare every day. I would just try to get the most rest that I could to be able to do the next day, because it was such a grueling schedule. Two weeks in, I was already dead. I was like, oh my God, I’m not gonna be able to do this for another two and a half months. I need to figure this out. And I figured that I just needed to sleep the most that I could; that’s what my body needed in order to be able to function. I would take baths, which is something that I never do. I’m not a bath person, but I would take some baths because sometimes my body needed it. I really actually enjoyed the cold water, and the ice baths that I had to do to prepare for the water scenes. I did cold water training and breath-holding training to prepare for this role. In the process, I found that the ice baths really helped me feel alive and they trigger all the nerves in your skin. It helped me feel alive and energized.
That doesn’t sound easy. What was the hardest part about playing Liv?
It was a challenging role as a whole. It was such a high-stress role the entire time. Most of the time, it required me having to put my body into labored breathing, being tense, and going into a state of panic. That can take a toll on you. Also emotionally, everything that she’s dealing with was exhausting. Everything was hard. The underwater stuff was hard. Being in the water those days was tiring. Between being out in the sun and in the water, those days were the toughest but most fun. It was a good feeling at the end of the day, though, kind of like you were just at the beach all day.
Gah! I could never. Conversely, what was the most enjoyable part about playing this role?
You rarely get to fully explore someone’s mind like I got to do with Liv. We get to the point where her memories, imaginations, her fever dreams, and her reality kind of all melt into one. That was super fun to get to do — so was being able to explore different, weird reactions that would only happen in dreams and bringing those into her reality. Being able to fully walk around in every little corner of her brain and explore so I could fully get to know her as a character was very fun. I think Liv is probably the character that I’ve gotten to know the most deeply in my entire career.
Out of all the characters you’ve played so far, which one are you most similar to IRL?
My character Liv in “Keep Breathing” is the one that I’m the most like, because she’s so heavily work-oriented and wants to succeed. I could also relate to her because, before I met my husband, I used to be like Liv in the sense that I’d prefer to not talk about feelings or feel things and just keep moving. I wasn’t very good at communicating. My husband has changed that and has taught me a lot. I’ve learned a lot from him, but I used to be much more like Liv. That’s why playing her was very therapeutic in a lot of ways.
I love that! Talking about characters, if you were to act in a biopic, who would you want to play?
Even while talking through Zoom with a spotty Internet connection, Juliana Joel’s confidence, charisma, and undeniable charm beams through the screen and lights up my dreary office. Perhaps it’s because the actress just made history for playing the first transgender character on the Disney Channel with her role as Nikki on “Raven’s Home.” All I know is that we just met, but speaking with her feels like catching up with a prima who I haven’t seen in years. We connect over our experiences growing up as queer Puerto Ricans in Catholic homes and making careers in spaces that weren’t made for us.
Case in point: Joel has always wanted to act in films and TV, but even after attending performing arts schools her whole life, she didn’t believe that what she saw on the screen was attainable for her.
“Coming from this small Puerto Rican family, I didn’t know anyone in the entertainment industry,” Joel tells Refinery29 Somos. “I honestly thought you had to be born into that world to have a chance to be in it.”
“To live a life full of so much rejection and so much hate, and to then choose a career that is 90% rejections, you have to really want it, and you have to really know who you are,” Joel says. “Now I’m able to walk into these rooms and onto these sets without seeking validation and just enjoy the moment.”
While the historic role is Joel’s biggest part yet, her success hasn’t come overnight. After moving from Florida to Los Angeles to pursue acting as a young adult, she had a difficult time trying to embody other characters because she often felt like she was acting out a gender that wasn’t her own in her everyday life. After taking several years to figure out who she is, and most importantly, letting go of the need for anyone to validate who she is, she made the decision to transition. Once she did, she continued to give acting — as a career, and no longer as part of her personal life — all she has.
Playing Nikki has been nothing short of joyful. When Joel first started acting, the representation of trans people on television was limited to nameless corpses on “Law and Order: SVU” and other tragic characters that do nothing to show viewers the character’s humanity. Nori Reed, who created the character of Nikki, has given Joel the opportunity to play a role that is not just another tragic storyline, but instead someone who is funny, compassionate, and undeniably human. “[Nikki] is just there to make you laugh, and I love that because we are just people. Trans people are just people,” she says.
Joel also appreciates that Nikki exists on a show for young people, who get to acquaint themselves with trans people and stories through a positive, fun, and multidimensional character. “The reality is that most [people in] this country have never met a trans person, let alone knows and engages with one personally,” Joel says. “What they see on TV about us is how they form their opinions and what they start to believe. We need to put [our stories] out there until they become the norm.”
Still, working on Disney Channel as a trans Latina comes with many emotions. Earlier this year, LGBTQ employees at Disney, and queer Disney fans across the world, protested the company after learning it initially refused to denounce Florida’s homophobic and transphobic Don’t Say Gay legislation that prohibits teachers from speaking about LGBTQ+ issues in the classroom. While she’s grateful that the company supported her character, and of all the strides Disney has made toward LGBTQ inclusivity with trans characters in “Owl House” and “Baymax!,” Joel does not see Nikki’s place on Disney Channel as redemption.
“I’m not taking Nikki’s character as a way for Disney to think that everything’s hunky-dory and that they’re truly supportive of and allies to the community,” she says.
While she is on the network, however, she intends to provide representation of trans people that she and so many others have always wanted to see and deserve, like ensuring that her Latinidad is celebrated as much as her transness. For many queer people of color, it is common for us to sever off one identity when we are honoring another: in Latine spaces, we may have to dial down our queerness; in queer spaces, we have to dial down our Latinidad.
“People talk about having a seat at the table, and I’m here trying to fill two seats: the Puerto Rican one and the trans one,” Joel says.
As many industries are emphasizing diversity and inclusivity, Joel knows that being included doesn’t always mean being supported or accepted. In moments like these, she encourages other trans people of color not to let their ideas of what the world may not accept about them stop them from following their dreams.
“Your life is a movie. You are the star,” she says. “The movie won’t be made if you don’t show up to set every day and create it.”
Up next in her own dream-fulfilling journey: playing Steph in Netflix’s sci-fi martial-arts action film “Absolute Dominion” out in 2023.
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If summer were a movie, July would be the climax — so it makes sense that this month's best-selling reader favorites were truly exciting. Per our anonymous shopping data, sensual pheromones snuck their way into Amazon carts, trendy bug sprays became tote bag staples, and readers wanted to get in our sisterhood of the traveling swimsuit. The list goes on (literally).
Did we forget to mention July was the ultimate sale trifecta? The Shopping team dutifully sifted through Fourth of July weekend sales, Amazon Prime Day deals, AND Nordstrom Anniversary Sale discounts while readers shopped 'til they dropped. That being said, we've reached summer's falling action: August. So, to quell any and all Autumn scaries, let us reminisce on these peculiar and popular purchases from the last 30 days ahead.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
West Elm Classon Recycled Plastic Shell Chair (Set of 2)
If home office chairs were our preoccupation throughout 2020 and 2021, then dining chairs have taken the throne in 2022. This fantastic plastic bundle was a major July best-seller — we blame it on that 40% off limited-time discount.
West Elm Classon Recycled Plastic Shell Chair (Set of 2, $, available at West Elm
Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan, 3-In-1 Hand Fan
New York's hottest club is, well, quite literally too hot to handle. Instead of soaking their clothing in sweat last month, our readers opted for this equal parts adorable and functional mini fan from Amazon. Take one stroll through Brooklyn, and you're guaranteed to see one buzzin' around IRL. Get it while it's hot!
JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan, 3 IN 1 Hand Fan, $, available at Amazon
Kinfield Golden Hour
First comes summer, then comes mosquitos, thereafter comes the logical next step: bug spray. But Kinfield's Golden Hour isn't just a bug spray, it's a cool bug spray. Add this clean, DEET-free best-seller to your cart and enjoy the feel of bite-free arms, plus the pleasant aroma of sweet vanilla citrus. Trust, one of our writers put her skin on the line at a bustling NYC park — to her delight, Golden Hour "was strong enough to ward the critters off."
Crest 3D White Luxe Whitestrips Professional Effects
Your safest bet on any Amazon Prime Day is stocking up on dental essentials — specifically Crest Whitestrips. While the infamous stain-remover reverted back to its original price tag, we still think the perpetual best-seller is worth adding to your cart.
Crest 3D White Luxe Whitestrips Professional Effects, $, available at Amazon
Pure Instinct The Original Pheromone Infused Essential Oil Perfume
People want a meet-cute with a little extra oomph these days, and pheromones — placebo effect or otherwise — add that missing pizzazz. While we can't attest to its sensual effects, we can say it made its way into a myriad of readers' Amazon hauls last month.
Pure Instinct The Original Pheromone Infused Essential Oil Perfume, $, available at Amazon
Sam Edelman Savanna Sandal
In Sam Edelman we (and a boatload of R29 readers) trust. From comfy to soles to stylish colorways, we can't get enough of this brand's perspective on footwear. The Savanna Sandal garnered plenty of fame in Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale and still cashes in for under $100 without the limited-time deal.
Circus by Sam Edelman Savanna Sandal, $, available at Nordstrom
Everlane The Billow Tiered Maxi Dress
As for Fourth of July sales, Everlane's cotton maxi took the top spot on our anonymous shopping data charts. The flowy, 50%-off garment truly has us crying tiers *wink* of joy.
Everlane The Billow Tiered Maxi Dress, $, available at Everlane
H&M 7-Pack Hipster Briefs
H&M's 100% organic cotton briefs made a surprising debut as a best-seller last month. Typically, Pact hipsters or Knickey bikini bundles dominate our cotton undies round-up, but in July, readers scooped up packs of these simple breathable basics (and for under $20 at that).
R29 readers are quite the loyal bunch — the Better Love Blowfish remains a best-seller month after month, so it's only right we give the two-in-one gadget its flowers once again. According to on-site reviews, it's "small" but "powerful" and "works great especially with a partner!"
Blowfish Blowfish Clitoral Stimulator, $, available at Ella Paradis
Calpak Oh Joy! Portable Charger
Ditch the Low Power Mode stress and keep your phone ready to go with this snazzy portable charger that doubles as a luggage tag. A nifty travel accessory indeed.
In June we watched Beis's Sport Duffle soar in sales, but the brand's Weekend Travel Bag claimed all the July fame in our weekender roundup. Needless to say, Shay Mitchell knows how to craft some quality duffles.
Our beauty writer found her new "hot girl walk uniform" last month: practically anything from Lululemon's new line of hiking essentials. Water-ready hiking shorts, convertible hiking pants, and cushiony crew socks were just a few of her faves while trekking around Los Angeles's Topanga State Park.
Lululemon Hike to Swim Short 6", $, available at Lululemon
Away F.A.R Duffle 55L
Can you believe I, a bonafide city girl, and a few other lucky writers took to the great outdoors in July complements of cult-favorite luggage retailer Away. While I was a tad anxious about my new surroundings, the brand's fresh line of water-resistant duffles, versatile backpacks, packing organizers, and more kept me fully prepped for Virginia's countryside. I highly recommend.
Our sex and wellness writer had only good things to say about her heightened sex drive after she popped a few of Asystem's libido-enhancing gummies. If you're in the mood to be put in THE mood, give these tasty snacks a try.
asystem x maude Female Libido Gummies, $, available at Asystem
Mia Puzzle Necklace
Like I said, I had an adventurous July. And, after the entire 30-day rollercoaster, Mia's affordable stainless steel jewelry came out completely unscathed. From baths to beach trips to workouts, not a single part of my skin turned green nor were there any scratches. Even the ring that unfortunately got stuck on my finger for weeks left my epidermis imprinted but 100% stain-free.
Summer involves salty ocean dips, chlorine pool dunks, lake cannonballs, and all kinds of activities that are big-hair no-nos. As we enter August, our strands definitely need some serious TLC. Coco & Eve's sweet hair mask is the perfect addition to our routines. For $35, you can score stronger, frizz-free follicles and jump into fall with what our beauty writer eloquently described as "commercial-worthy strands."
Coco & Eve Sweet Repair Hair Mask, $, available at Coco & Eve
YouSwim Poise Cheeky Two-Piece
Just when we thought nothing could top Brandy Melville''s "one size fits all," the British swimwear brand YouSwim introduced us to its line "seven-sizes-in-one" suits. To test these claims, nine of our editors gave the swimsuits a whirl, and to our surprise, everyone looked pretty darn good. We'll call it the sisterhood of the traveling swimsuit.
Youswim Poise Cheeky Two-Piece, $, available at Youswim
Dr. Scholl's Ultra Exfoliating Foot Peel Mask
Our generous beauty writer took on for the team in July and flaunted her feet online. Why? To see if the Dr. Scholl's exfoliating foot sheet mask was worth the hype. Apparently, it was. She wrote, "In addition to rendering them insanely soft, they somehow looked brighter and more even-toned, too." Oh, how a-peel-ing.
Dr.Scholl's Ultra Exfoliating Foot Peel Mask, 1 Pair, $, available at Amazon
Onyx Professional Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream
The scientists over at Onyx Professional should give themselves many pats on the back. Hard as Hoof is a bonafide R29-reader favorite from our hit list of Amazon beauty hidden gems (quite literally going on two years now).
Onyx Professional Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream, $, available at Amazon
Skims Fits Everybody High Neck Bodysuit
To accurately answer the question on every bodysuit devotee's mind, "Is Skims worth the hype?" our affiliate writer Chichi Offor tried a few pieces on for size in July. According to her, the high neck "makes it virtually impossible for any embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions" and she didn't even need a bra to achieve an "adequate amount of lift." The hype was, in fact, correct.
Skims Fits Everybody High Neck Bodysuit, $, available at Skims
Saatva Organic Cotton Channel Quilt
Refinery29 readers can't get enough of Saatva's sustainable mattresses, so it was only a matter of time before its organic bedding made our monthly best-sellers list. Hello, 100% cotton sateen weaves and breezy summer snoozes.
Saatva Organic Cotton Channel Quilt, $, available at Saatva
Art Knacky Pet Lamp
Full transparency? We have no idea why this kooky feline lamp was a July best-seller. But according to the trends in our anonymous shopping data, it's $248 well spent.
Quince Premium Down Alternative Comforter, $, available at Quince
Alan Oken Pocket Guide to the Tarot, Revised
One Amazon reviewer describes Alan Oken's piece as "small enough to carry and packed full of information." Our own shopping team writer Mercedes Viera swooned over its "super-fresh perspective." All in all, if you're on the hunt for a meaningful crash course on the ancient practice, look no further.
Alan Oken Pocket Guide to the Tarot, Revised, $, available at Amazon
Hot Octopuss Kurve
What Hot Octopuss's best-selling G-spot vibe lacks in tentacles, it makes up for overwhelming arousal. Our sex and wellness writer Charlotte Lewis "ascended to another plane" when using it in tandem with a buzzy bullet and gave it her expert stamp of approval.
Combine your new mini fan with Duradry's three-step deodorizing system, and you'll find yourself summer-proof in even the swampiest conditions. A standard deo stick in the AM, a gel for the evening, and a wash for the shower, the routine tamed our writer's perspiration. You can give it a try for 15% off with the code DRY15 (on first orders only).
Shapewear is having a moment — from Skims body suits to corsets — and is no longer confined beneath the shackles of our clothing. For instance, this viral UO corset made our beauty writer Karina Hoshikawa look absolutely stunning in her July review.
Out From Under Modern Love Corset, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Alex Mill Standard Short Jumpsuit
Our fashion writer Vivien Lee added the famous Alex Mill jumpsuit to her collection last month. Except, rather than the classic full-coverage suit she scored the summery short edition. That breathable cotton fabric combined with such an airy silhouette made her want to "live in it all summer." Oh, it also made her feel like a "badass boss." We're sold.
