Monday, December 30, 2019
Mary-Kate and Ashley Do Birthday Messages the Olsen Way
The Olsens are a little like mythical creatures. A unicorn or a centaur, perhaps; or even the (now-missing) radiant Mandarin duck of Central Park. We rarely see them, and it’s even rarer we hear them. So, when we spot The Row designers on social media, it becomes the viral equivalent of seeing all those aforementioned animals out in the wild. And today, it happened once again: The twins ventured into the world of Instagram to wish an unlikely friend a very happy birthday—the actor Ashley Benson, girlfriend of Cara Delevingne—who turned 30. Benson posted the video to her own account with the caption: “Dreams do come true.” In the clip, the sisters begin wishing Benson a happy birthday in unison, before drifting into their own forms of celebratory salutations. “Happy Birthday, Ashley,” they begin. “I hope this year is one of the best ones yet. We are sending you lots of love.” No sooner does Mary-Kate chime in solo—“So magical, and can’t wait to meet you soon!”—before Ashley kisses the camera, and they offer a shared goodbye.
Sure, there are plenty of questions that remain. Have the Olsens and Benson even met yet? Did Delevingne request this for Benson as a present? Do the Olsens participate in the Cameo app, in which celebrities greet people for a fee? More importantly, how many pieces of The Row does Benson own? I, myself, am unsure. But what we can gather from the clip is that this was perhaps the most Olsen way to say “happy birthday.”
For one, the designers sported their signature sunglasses. (Mary Kate—the Olsen towards the front of the camera—is wearing their brand The Row’s collaboration with Oliver Peoples; the style, titled “Hightree Titanium Oval Sunglasses,” currently sell for $585.) The two are also dressed in all black, which has been their tried-and-true choice of color over the years. Ashley, in oversized aviators, is wearing a black shawl embroidered with red thread, while Mary Kate wears a tailored black woolen coat. Another signature? At the end, post-camera kiss, Ashley finger waves while clutching a takeaway coffee—perhaps the ultimate Olsen accessory. It’s both peak Olsen, and peak understated—whispering its chicness in the quietest possible tones. In other words, the video was a reason for all of us to celebrate: whether it’s our birthday, or not.
Friday, November 29, 2019
Angelina Jolie Finds the Perfect Weekend Flats—And They’re Under $200
Who says holiday shopping can’t be a fashion moment in and of itself? When Angelina Jolie headed to the stores yesterday in Los Angeles with daughter, Vivienne, she did so in style—with a little help from her current favorite accessories. Wearing a beige Gabriela Hearst midi-dress, the actress’s vibe was one of casual glamour, and her outfit was further elevated by the addition of a pair of Everlane’s ‘Editor’ slingbacks in a classic shade of black. Priced at just $155, the pointed toe suede flats are an affordable alternative to sneakers, and managed to complement both Jolie’s Celine clasp bag and her oversized sunglasses. Though each element within the ensemble was understated, the mix of textures and tones made for an alluring overall look.
Never one to bother with trends, Jolie’s style is defined by her wardrobe staples. Everlane’s ‘Modern’ loafer remains her favorite airport shoe, and she’s so enamored with the clean lines of Celine’s clasp purse that she owns it in multiple colors. This consistency means that her signature look remains intact no matter the situation, and her latest outfit proves once again that minimal style is always compelling—especially when it comes at a bargain price.
Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Nina Dobrev Delivers a Halloween Costume Only True Fashion Fans Will Know
Trick or treat! Celebrities are already taking to Instagram this week to share their unique Halloween costumes, in anticipation of the big holiday coming up on Thursday. Some have gotten in the spirit early, such as supermodel Cindy Crawford, who went full-on disco diva this weekend. But this week, there’s already a front-runner for best costume (and it’s only Monday). That would be actress Nina Dobrev, who delivered a clever getup that only true fashion insiders will understand.
Tapping the most entertaining moment of the Spring 2020 runway shows, Dobrev dressed as the notorious show crasher who stormed the Chanel show in Paris this season. That would be Marie Benoliel, a 28-year-old French YouTuber who went rogue and decided to storm the runway and walk the finale of Virginie Viard’s latest collection. (Model Gigi Hadid eventually stopped her and escorted her off the catwalk—talk about fashion roadkill.)
For Dobrev’s take on the fashionable prankster, the actress nailed Benoliel’s bootleg Chanel houndstooth suit and topper hat; her friend Lane Cheek, meanwhile, played the part of the annoyed Hadid, wearing a look similar to the one she walked the Chanel presentation in, right down to the gold belt and signature quilted bag. The duo moment was clever, timely, and, somehow, chic—all the makings of a stellar Halloween costume.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Meghan Markle Continues Her Affordable Style Streak with a Chic Jumpsuit
For day three of Meghan Markle’s South African tour, the Duchess of Sussex paid a visit to the Woodstock Exchange in Cape Town, where she met with female entrepreneurs working in tech. Since kicking off the tour, Markle has been wearing low-key pieces that don’t break the bank: take the $118 Madewell denim jacket that she wore yesterday, or the $86 wrap dress she wore the day before, by the Malawi-based brand Mayamiko. And today, once again, the Duchess opted for a very chic jumpsuit—that retails for just $120.
The accessible piece is by the brand Everlane. With its deep V neckline and mid-calf length, the brand’s Japanese GoWeave Essential Jumpsuit strikes the perfect balance of dressy and casual—and it comes in plenty of other colorways as well. Markle kept her overall look minimal, accessorizing only with black pointed pumps by Manolo Blahnik and a pair of statement earrings by Gas Bijoux; proof that, sometimes, a well-cut piece is all an outfit needs.
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Wednesday, August 28, 2019
King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain Do His-and-Hers Suits
King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain are one of the world's most consistently well-dressed royal couples. They strike that balance of having just the right amount of fashion flair while never being too showy, and share perfect judgment when it comes to event-appropriate dressing. Yesterday, the pair were photographed together in Pozuelo de Alarcon, Spain, and their off-duty ensembles were all about his-and-hers summer suiting.
Their complementary suits in neutral colorways played off each other with simplicity and ease. Queen Letizia went for a white blazer, pairing it with a polka dot blouse and black trousers, before accessorizing the look with a navy top-handle bag and suede loafers. King Felipe VI, meanwhile, picked up her pops of blue with a pale blue single-breasted blazer: pairing it with a black polo and white trousers, he then further mimicked his wife's footwear with blue horsebit loafers by Gucci.
The takeaway? With the tidal wave of matchy-matchy couples style looks taking over Hollywood, it seems royals love to double-up their style, too.
Monday, July 29, 2019
Pierce Brosnan’s Son Was the Breakout Red Carpet Star at the Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Premiere
Last night in Los Angeles, celebrities poured into the Chinese Theater for the premiere of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, the Quentin Tarantino-directed film starring Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Margot Robbie. In the star-studded crowd was former 007 actor Pierce Brosnan looking every bit the aged-like-fine-wine James Bond with his rugged salt-and-pepper beard. The 66-year-old actor arrived wearing a polished royal blue suit sans tie (it’s summer after all, time to let that man cleavage breathe with a handsome man at his side. The fresh-faced, long-haired stranger was none other than Brosnan’s 22-year-old son Dylan. In a burnt sienna leather coat, white button-down shirt, flared low-slung blue jeans, and retro sneakers, he was hands down one of the most stylish dressers of the night, something like Josh Harnett in The Virgin Suicides only taller (he is 6’ 5”!).
The younger Brosnan is already on the fashion world’s radar: his model good looks earned him a staring role in the Saint Laurent Spring 2015 campaign alongside fellow celeb spawn Jack Kilmer; he also walked the Saint Laurent Menswear Spring 2016 show. Now that he’s making waves on the red carpet, chances are we’ll be seeing more of this second-generation heartthrob in Hollywood, too.
Tuesday, June 25, 2019
Kehlani Launches a Gender-Inclusive Line of Tie-Dyed Basics (Baby Onesie Included)
Kehlani gave birth to her daughter Adeya Nomi just a few months ago, but she’s already proven herself a master at mommy-daughter outfit coordination. When Kehlani isn’t accessorizing her Harley Davidson crop top and mall goth-belted blue jeans with a baby stroller, she’s dressing Adeya in little garments that perfectly match her own, as she did when they both wore summery red floral patterns earlier this month.
Now, the Oakland-born singer-songwriter is bringing her daughter to the forefront with her latest venture. Tomorrow, Kehlani will officially launch TSNMI, a new line of basics that are in part inspired by her role as a mother. In addition to gender-inclusive T-shirts, Windbreakers, rainbow lotus flower necklaces, and bucket hats, TSNMI’s first drop will include tie-dye baby onesies with matching, miniature socks. Adeya even stars in the very groovy, West Coast–themed campaign: Kehlani, wearing one of the color-blocked jumpsuits, holds tiny Adeya, who is dressed in a canary yellow tie-dye set and a little orange beanie. TSNMI is inclusive in the broadest sense of the term: even babies can wear it.
Friday, May 31, 2019
“My Big Goal Was to Create a Fashion Family”—Diane von Furstenberg Discusses Her 13 Years as the Head of the CFDA
Last Tuesday Diane von Furstenberg chaired her final membership meeting for the CFDA. There was a party at the Metrograph and a Charlotte Neuville cake with frosting in a familiar DVF print, topped by a wrap dress-wearing Statue of Liberty. In addition to being the godmother of American fashion for the last 13 years (nine as CFDA President, and four more as CFDA Chairman), von Furstenberg recently took a spot on the board of the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, and raised no less than $100 million for a new museum on Liberty Island, which opened earlier this month. She’s hardly going to have a quiet retirement.
Likewise, her years leading the CFDA were anything but subdued. Von Furstenberg doubled the membership, established an endowment, launched an anti-piracy campaign, advocated for a strict age-requirement for models, and promoted a rethink of New York fashion week—a subject her successor Tom Ford will apparently take up in earnest. (She’ll pass the proverbial torch at the CFDA Awards ceremony at the Brooklyn Museum on June 3.) As a jury member on the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, von Furstenberg mentored 2008 winner Alexander Wang and 2012 runner-up Jennifer Meyer, and shepherded a hundred more young talents through the competition. All the while, of course, von Furstenberg was running her eponymous label, launched 45 years ago on the strength of her genius wrap dress concept.
In an interview, von Furstenberg discussed the highs and lows—but mostly highs—of her CFDA tenure, and the work she wants to do “for the rest of her life.”
The CFDA named you President in 2006. Do you remember being asked?
I was on the committee to find a new President and it ended up being me. I said I would do it for two years, which is exactly what Tom [Ford] told me.
How do you feel about Tom replacing you as Chairman?
It’s been two years I’ve been looking for my replacement. I wanted to end nicely. I want an upgrade. Tom was the right one. I worked on him for a long, long time. I’m so excited it’s him. He’s a star, and he’s also very international. He’s going to be much stricter than I am, much more disciplined. It’s a perfect change.
The CFDA got a star when they go you, though, no? Fashion was always a glamorous industry, but you certainly raised the profile of the CFDA.
Nobody knew those initials at the time I took the job.
What did you want to do first?
My first big goal was to create a fashion family. We grew from 250 members to 500 members.
And what are you proudest of? The CFDA website highlights your anti-piracy initiative.
That was an experience! We had this lobbyist Liz Robbins. She took us to Washington and she said, “Congress is meeting, I don’t think you’re going to be able to see anyone.” Well, we met everyone. Nancy Pelosi, John McCain, Maxine Waters, Dianne Feinstein. The anti-piracy thing went nowhere, but we created so much noise that the mass merchants realized the importance of having a real designer. We started that in a sense. I was happy about that. We enhanced the value of designers.
Another thing we did is buy the Fashion Calendar. You know, I had an emotional attachment to the calendar. That was the first call I made when I was in Diana Vreeland’s office. Diana Vreeland had an assistant Kezia Keeble. Kezia said, “I really think she liked it,” meaning Mrs. Vreeland. She told me to take a room at the Gotham Hotel, which is now the Peninsula, and that I should call the Fashion Calendar and do an announcement in WWD. I said, “Can I use your phone?” And I sat on her desk and called Ruth Finley.
What was the hardest part of the job?
They were good years. I really feel motherly with Steven [Kolb, the President and CEO of the CFDA]. I really mentored him.
You did a lot of mentoring during your time at the CFDA.
There’s nothing more rewarding. You know, when you have a voice, when you are successful, when you have a lot of knowledge, you do have a magic wand. You can make so much difference with so little. I have a habit, before I get up I send two emails that don’t benefit me. You introduce this person to that person, and you change somebody’s life. That’s what I want to do the rest of my life.
What do you see as the challenges facing New York fashion?
Everything is immediate. Whether we like it or not, it is. If you work for Vogue, you used to work six months in advance, now you have to do it for tonight. It’s direct to consumer. Everyone is a little media brand. I don’t need to tell you all the things that are different. The wholesale business is shrinking… So, why would you show six months in advance? Everybody’s thinking vertical, what I can ship right now?
So, you feel that fashion week hasn’t caught up to the changes happening in fashion?
No, but it will. It absolutely will, and it will be very dynamic. And American fashion is very exciting. There’s a lot of young designers, but the young designers are thinking different now. Even on the Fashion Fund, it’s not like they all say “we’re going to do a fashion show.” Of course it will survive, but it’s changing.
You have a big year! The Statue of Liberty Museum just opened. Why was this project important to you?
It was something I so did not want to do. They came running behind me for three years; they wanted me on the board. Stephen Briganti [the President and CEO of Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation] gave me a book on the Statue. Then I was intrigued. Finally, he came to me and he had read my book, [The Woman I Want to Be: Diane von Furstenberg]. In it is a quote from my mother, who survived the Holocaust. It says: “God saved me so that I could give you life. By giving you life you gave me my life back. You are my torch of freedom.” Stephen said, “your mother said you’re the torch of freedom. You’ve got to do this.” Going on the board meant I had to raise money for the museum. I raised $100 million. I can’t believe to this day that I did it... Did you know that at the inauguration of the Statue of Liberty in 1886 no women were allowed?
You’ve done a lot for women over the years.
We had the DVF Awards in April. Anita Hill got the big prize. And I just got an award from Vital Voices, which is an organization that I’ve helped for years. Nancy Pelosi gave it to me. I was always a feminist, and I always said to be a feminist doesn’t mean you have to look a truck driver. Feminine and feminist is I think what I stand for.
It’s the 45th anniversary of the wrap dress. Do you think about your legacy at all?
The third generation of the company is starting. I have a woman CEO [Sandra Campos]—she gets it. She’s a DVF woman. I have a woman in charge of all design. I have Talita, [my granddaughter] and I’m so proud of her. She has her own line TVF by DVF. And it was very successful. The pop-up sold out in two days. She’s very serious about it. She emailed me in the middle of the night, she said, “I’m anxious about sales.” I said, “but you sold out.” Then she said, “well, for the next time.” She’s adorable. So it’s nice for me.
Do you have any advice for Tom Ford?
Tom doesn’t need advice. It would be stupid to give it to him. It’s nice to come fresh and do it your own way. He’s very serious at everything he does, and he’s a little intimidating, which is good. But he’s a nice guy. He’s a statesman. It’s a great honor for me that he comes after me.
Likewise, her years leading the CFDA were anything but subdued. Von Furstenberg doubled the membership, established an endowment, launched an anti-piracy campaign, advocated for a strict age-requirement for models, and promoted a rethink of New York fashion week—a subject her successor Tom Ford will apparently take up in earnest. (She’ll pass the proverbial torch at the CFDA Awards ceremony at the Brooklyn Museum on June 3.) As a jury member on the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, von Furstenberg mentored 2008 winner Alexander Wang and 2012 runner-up Jennifer Meyer, and shepherded a hundred more young talents through the competition. All the while, of course, von Furstenberg was running her eponymous label, launched 45 years ago on the strength of her genius wrap dress concept.
In an interview, von Furstenberg discussed the highs and lows—but mostly highs—of her CFDA tenure, and the work she wants to do “for the rest of her life.”
The CFDA named you President in 2006. Do you remember being asked?
I was on the committee to find a new President and it ended up being me. I said I would do it for two years, which is exactly what Tom [Ford] told me.
How do you feel about Tom replacing you as Chairman?
It’s been two years I’ve been looking for my replacement. I wanted to end nicely. I want an upgrade. Tom was the right one. I worked on him for a long, long time. I’m so excited it’s him. He’s a star, and he’s also very international. He’s going to be much stricter than I am, much more disciplined. It’s a perfect change.
The CFDA got a star when they go you, though, no? Fashion was always a glamorous industry, but you certainly raised the profile of the CFDA.
Nobody knew those initials at the time I took the job.
What did you want to do first?
My first big goal was to create a fashion family. We grew from 250 members to 500 members.
And what are you proudest of? The CFDA website highlights your anti-piracy initiative.
That was an experience! We had this lobbyist Liz Robbins. She took us to Washington and she said, “Congress is meeting, I don’t think you’re going to be able to see anyone.” Well, we met everyone. Nancy Pelosi, John McCain, Maxine Waters, Dianne Feinstein. The anti-piracy thing went nowhere, but we created so much noise that the mass merchants realized the importance of having a real designer. We started that in a sense. I was happy about that. We enhanced the value of designers.
Another thing we did is buy the Fashion Calendar. You know, I had an emotional attachment to the calendar. That was the first call I made when I was in Diana Vreeland’s office. Diana Vreeland had an assistant Kezia Keeble. Kezia said, “I really think she liked it,” meaning Mrs. Vreeland. She told me to take a room at the Gotham Hotel, which is now the Peninsula, and that I should call the Fashion Calendar and do an announcement in WWD. I said, “Can I use your phone?” And I sat on her desk and called Ruth Finley.
What was the hardest part of the job?
They were good years. I really feel motherly with Steven [Kolb, the President and CEO of the CFDA]. I really mentored him.
You did a lot of mentoring during your time at the CFDA.
There’s nothing more rewarding. You know, when you have a voice, when you are successful, when you have a lot of knowledge, you do have a magic wand. You can make so much difference with so little. I have a habit, before I get up I send two emails that don’t benefit me. You introduce this person to that person, and you change somebody’s life. That’s what I want to do the rest of my life.
What do you see as the challenges facing New York fashion?
Everything is immediate. Whether we like it or not, it is. If you work for Vogue, you used to work six months in advance, now you have to do it for tonight. It’s direct to consumer. Everyone is a little media brand. I don’t need to tell you all the things that are different. The wholesale business is shrinking… So, why would you show six months in advance? Everybody’s thinking vertical, what I can ship right now?
So, you feel that fashion week hasn’t caught up to the changes happening in fashion?
No, but it will. It absolutely will, and it will be very dynamic. And American fashion is very exciting. There’s a lot of young designers, but the young designers are thinking different now. Even on the Fashion Fund, it’s not like they all say “we’re going to do a fashion show.” Of course it will survive, but it’s changing.
You have a big year! The Statue of Liberty Museum just opened. Why was this project important to you?
It was something I so did not want to do. They came running behind me for three years; they wanted me on the board. Stephen Briganti [the President and CEO of Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation] gave me a book on the Statue. Then I was intrigued. Finally, he came to me and he had read my book, [The Woman I Want to Be: Diane von Furstenberg]. In it is a quote from my mother, who survived the Holocaust. It says: “God saved me so that I could give you life. By giving you life you gave me my life back. You are my torch of freedom.” Stephen said, “your mother said you’re the torch of freedom. You’ve got to do this.” Going on the board meant I had to raise money for the museum. I raised $100 million. I can’t believe to this day that I did it... Did you know that at the inauguration of the Statue of Liberty in 1886 no women were allowed?
You’ve done a lot for women over the years.
We had the DVF Awards in April. Anita Hill got the big prize. And I just got an award from Vital Voices, which is an organization that I’ve helped for years. Nancy Pelosi gave it to me. I was always a feminist, and I always said to be a feminist doesn’t mean you have to look a truck driver. Feminine and feminist is I think what I stand for.
It’s the 45th anniversary of the wrap dress. Do you think about your legacy at all?
The third generation of the company is starting. I have a woman CEO [Sandra Campos]—she gets it. She’s a DVF woman. I have a woman in charge of all design. I have Talita, [my granddaughter] and I’m so proud of her. She has her own line TVF by DVF. And it was very successful. The pop-up sold out in two days. She’s very serious about it. She emailed me in the middle of the night, she said, “I’m anxious about sales.” I said, “but you sold out.” Then she said, “well, for the next time.” She’s adorable. So it’s nice for me.
Do you have any advice for Tom Ford?
Tom doesn’t need advice. It would be stupid to give it to him. It’s nice to come fresh and do it your own way. He’s very serious at everything he does, and he’s a little intimidating, which is good. But he’s a nice guy. He’s a statesman. It’s a great honor for me that he comes after me.
Tuesday, April 30, 2019
R&B Icon Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes’s Best Beauty Looks of All Time
“Let me give you something to think about,” rapped Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes on TLC’s empowering anthem “No Scrubs.” And serving up idiosyncratic looks, most notoriously above the neck, was something she did without fail. One third of the groundbreaking ’90s girl group alongside Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas and Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, Lopes helped lead the trio both aesthetically and sonically as they disrupted the style space and broached taboo topics, such as female self-esteem and AIDS, with melodic R&B hooks.
Lopes, who the world lost tragically 17 years ago today, was by all definitions a beauty chameleon, yet always stuck to her signatures—sculptural updos, vivid gazes, and a graphic black stripe etched beneath her left eye—reimagining them with each combination more mesmerizing than the next. In the mid-’90s, having risen to global fame following the success of TLC’s second studio album CrazySexyCool, Lopes captured even more attention with high, asymmetrical ponytails and side-swept fringe, smoky cobalt lids, and chromatic lips. But it was when she struck out solo at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards, hitting the red carpet in a jewel-embellished, barely there gold dress, her tall cascade of auburn hair punctuated by a gilded headband, that proved no look would ever be too bold. And after that night’s performance alongside Lil’ Kim, Missy Elliott, Angie Martinez, and Da Brat, her shape-shifting mane would only become more striking.
In 1999, for TLC’s meditative “Unpretty” music video, she framed a braided topknot with two waist-grazing plaits, her cheeks celestially swirled with frosty pink rouge, while at the Kids’ Choice Awards the same year, she secured two glossy pigtails with electric-blue scrunchies and slashed azure eyeliner across the eyes to monochromatic effect. And she continued to play with the balance between soft and hard in the early aughts, ushering in the new millennium with a fresh, micro-fringed bob and equally directional sweeps of pastel pigment on the lids. Here, to honor the late star and the indelible mark she left on pop culture, a look back at her most iconic beauty moments of all time.
Lopes, who the world lost tragically 17 years ago today, was by all definitions a beauty chameleon, yet always stuck to her signatures—sculptural updos, vivid gazes, and a graphic black stripe etched beneath her left eye—reimagining them with each combination more mesmerizing than the next. In the mid-’90s, having risen to global fame following the success of TLC’s second studio album CrazySexyCool, Lopes captured even more attention with high, asymmetrical ponytails and side-swept fringe, smoky cobalt lids, and chromatic lips. But it was when she struck out solo at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards, hitting the red carpet in a jewel-embellished, barely there gold dress, her tall cascade of auburn hair punctuated by a gilded headband, that proved no look would ever be too bold. And after that night’s performance alongside Lil’ Kim, Missy Elliott, Angie Martinez, and Da Brat, her shape-shifting mane would only become more striking.
In 1999, for TLC’s meditative “Unpretty” music video, she framed a braided topknot with two waist-grazing plaits, her cheeks celestially swirled with frosty pink rouge, while at the Kids’ Choice Awards the same year, she secured two glossy pigtails with electric-blue scrunchies and slashed azure eyeliner across the eyes to monochromatic effect. And she continued to play with the balance between soft and hard in the early aughts, ushering in the new millennium with a fresh, micro-fringed bob and equally directional sweeps of pastel pigment on the lids. Here, to honor the late star and the indelible mark she left on pop culture, a look back at her most iconic beauty moments of all time.
Tuesday, March 26, 2019
The Definitive Guide to Surviving Allergy Season
Spring is officially here, and the spring equinox is a welcome reminder that warmer days are, in fact, ahead. But while sunnier skies hold the promise of blooming flowers and greener grasses, increasingly steamy global temperatures mean that allergy season is primed to kick in sooner. Fortunately, a little proactive planning can make a big difference when it comes to sneezing, wheezing, and coughing. Here, two experts weigh in on the best pre-emptive moves for keeping those symptoms in check.
Plan Ahead
“Our immune system recognizes pollen as dangerous, releasing chemicals that cause inflammation,” explains New York City allergist and immunologist Mauli Desai, M.D. “That’s where the itchy eyes and sneezing begins.” Desai recommends paying attention to pollen counts (most are shown on weather apps) before leaving the house and limiting outdoor activity on extremely breezy days. Pollen counts tend to be highest at noon and decline slowly throughout the day, so if a run around the neighborhood is in order, the expert suggests waiting until the late afternoon or evening. And since pollen can easily get trapped in contact lenses, a pair of large sunglasses may also help on especially high count days.
Take an Antihistamine
Don’t wait until allergies strike to take action. “It’s important to take an antihistamine first thing in the morning, before leaving the house,” says Desai. If you're already aware that spring’s blooming seriously affects your routine, pick up a nasal spray, too, and use it daily up to two weeks before things really start to bloom—typically the first week of April. It will help to lessen the symptoms and can also be used in conjunction with an over-the-counter medication, like Claritin or Zyrtec.
Turn Your Home Into a Safe Zone
“Pollen is really sticky,” says Desai and therefore easily carried into our homes. To maintain a sneeze-free atmosphere, keep the windows shut. For those really suffering, the pro suggests changing out of clothes and washing hair immediately after arriving home at night, as it will go a long way in whisking away allergens. Desai also urges pet owners to bathe cats or dogs often, since fur can track in unwanted pollen, as well.
Consider Alternative Therapies
While drugstore medications work for many, there are other natural solutions that may provide alternative relief. According to Elizabeth Alexandre, a New York City–based herbalist and acupuncturist, acupuncture is a tool that has met with success. “The needles remove obstruction in the nasal passages and can regulate the immune system,” she says, meaning they promote balance and help relieve inflammation throughout the body. Alexandre recommends beginning six to eight weeks before the start of spring to get the full benefits, although the treatment is helpful at any point during the season.
Evaluate Your Diet
Surprisingly, a daily diet can have a real impact on allergies. “Eat with the seasons,” says Alexandre. “Spring is a time when our diet should be the lightest and filled with fresh, sprouted foods.” She adds that avoiding “mucus-producing” foods, like dairy, extremely cold liquids, or processed ingredients, may also decrease overall congestion.
Plan Ahead
“Our immune system recognizes pollen as dangerous, releasing chemicals that cause inflammation,” explains New York City allergist and immunologist Mauli Desai, M.D. “That’s where the itchy eyes and sneezing begins.” Desai recommends paying attention to pollen counts (most are shown on weather apps) before leaving the house and limiting outdoor activity on extremely breezy days. Pollen counts tend to be highest at noon and decline slowly throughout the day, so if a run around the neighborhood is in order, the expert suggests waiting until the late afternoon or evening. And since pollen can easily get trapped in contact lenses, a pair of large sunglasses may also help on especially high count days.
Take an Antihistamine
Don’t wait until allergies strike to take action. “It’s important to take an antihistamine first thing in the morning, before leaving the house,” says Desai. If you're already aware that spring’s blooming seriously affects your routine, pick up a nasal spray, too, and use it daily up to two weeks before things really start to bloom—typically the first week of April. It will help to lessen the symptoms and can also be used in conjunction with an over-the-counter medication, like Claritin or Zyrtec.
Turn Your Home Into a Safe Zone
“Pollen is really sticky,” says Desai and therefore easily carried into our homes. To maintain a sneeze-free atmosphere, keep the windows shut. For those really suffering, the pro suggests changing out of clothes and washing hair immediately after arriving home at night, as it will go a long way in whisking away allergens. Desai also urges pet owners to bathe cats or dogs often, since fur can track in unwanted pollen, as well.
Consider Alternative Therapies
While drugstore medications work for many, there are other natural solutions that may provide alternative relief. According to Elizabeth Alexandre, a New York City–based herbalist and acupuncturist, acupuncture is a tool that has met with success. “The needles remove obstruction in the nasal passages and can regulate the immune system,” she says, meaning they promote balance and help relieve inflammation throughout the body. Alexandre recommends beginning six to eight weeks before the start of spring to get the full benefits, although the treatment is helpful at any point during the season.
Evaluate Your Diet
Surprisingly, a daily diet can have a real impact on allergies. “Eat with the seasons,” says Alexandre. “Spring is a time when our diet should be the lightest and filled with fresh, sprouted foods.” She adds that avoiding “mucus-producing” foods, like dairy, extremely cold liquids, or processed ingredients, may also decrease overall congestion.
Monday, February 25, 2019
Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez Are the Best-Dressed Couple at the Oscars
Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez are the masters of couples style. Whether they’re heading to the gym or hitting the red carpet, the pair regularly match their ensembles to perfection. So it makes sense, then, that the dynamic duo would step up their commitment to coordination for the Oscars red carpet tonight. For the mothership of awards season, J-Rod hit the step-and-repeat in matching Tom Ford evening looks.
Looking like a real-life disco ball, J.Lo opted for a form-fitting, long-sleeved gown that was covered in broken mirror-like pieces. She shined—quite literally!—in a sea of frothy gowns, and infused a dash of playfulness into the look that put some fun back into awards season. If the style looks familiar, it’s because Amal Clooney wore a similar dress—though in burgundy—to the Met Gala last year.
As for Rodriguez, he suited up in a classic tuxedo that complemented J.Lo's sharp silver colorway. He slipped on a white blazer and paired it with a white button-up, black bowtie, black trousers, and shiny oxfords. The takeaway? J-Rod is a they-went-there couple that won’t cease to serve up major looks—and thank the fashion gods for that.
Saturday, January 26, 2019
Kate Middleton’s Monochromatic Style Has a Socially Conscious Message
Kate Middleton doesn’t do ostentatious fashion. Despite having access to the most extravagant jewelry and couture finery the world has to offer, the Duchess of Cambridge prefers to keep things understated no matter the occasion. This morning for a visit to Family Action, a charity dedicated to providing support for disadvantaged children in South London, she wore an ensemble that adhered to all the tenets of her style. Middleton pulled out a midi from Beulah London and paired it with a matching croc-stamped belt, and suede Gianvito Rossi pumps. Dressed in shades of olive from head to toe, she finished things off with an coordinating L.K. Bennett clutch and a pair of Kiki McDonough’s amethyst and diamond drop earrings.
The monochromatic look was elevated thanks to its luxurious materials—wool crepe, suede, and a few well-placed gems are always a good idea—and ethical nature. A socially conscious label, Beulah donates a percentage of proceeds to victims of sexual trafficking in India and has been a mainstay in Middleton’s wardrobe. In 2016 she chose a red floral gown from the brand for a visit to Bhutan’s capital city, while a sheer pale blue number proved the right choice for a stop in Kuala Lumpur during the Royal Jubilee Tour of 2012. Consistently elegant and all for a good cause, Beulah and its messaging corresponds with Middleton’s, which means you can expect to see her wearing plenty more of it in the near future.
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