Lifestyle

How to Treat Causes of Dry, Flaky Skin, According to Dermatologists

Published

1 month ago

April 14, 2024

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There’s so much to embrace about the warm weather season ahead. Al fresco dining, backyard gardening, and plenty of sun-soaked days. But of course, with the opportunity to ditch our winter layers comes plenty of toxic messaging. Hello… “summer body.” Thankfully, in the era of increased neutrality, a summer body depends on nothing more than existing in the months between May and August. It’s freeing to align your routine to your changing needs instead of trying to change your body for the seasons. With that approach in mind, my summer prep looks like resetting my skincare routine, turning over my wardrobe, prioritizing beauty sleep, and upping my body care rituals to address common causes of dry, flaky skin.

Featured image from our interview with Megan OâNeill by BelathÃ©e Photography.

Understanding Dry, Flaky Skin Causes

In the summer, I swap out my winter skincare for a more streamlined routine. Think: lightweight face oils and makeup multi-sticks in lieu of heavier moisturizers. But whatever time I save in paring back these steps goes straight to my body. Of course, when the sun’s out, I show more of my skin. So I try to stop common dry, flaky skin at the root by being diligent with my body care routine.

But as with any element of beauty, you don’t know what you don’t know. To get a clear handle on exactly what my body care routine needs, I went to the experts for answers.

“The body often gets neglected,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Deanne Mraz. “We tend to seek out and splurge on facial skincare, but there is now a growing awareness that many of the same active ingredients will benefit the body (and scalp!).”

Read on to understand the causes of dry, flaky skinâas well as common mistakes to avoid if you have genetic concerns or skin conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, or just too much sun exposure. Our experts also recommended some steps to add to your body care routine. Start now for smooth, hydrated skin all summer and beyond.

Meet the Experts

Deanne Mraz, MD, FAAD. President and Founder, DMR Research, President and Co-Founder, Modern Dermatology, and Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology, Yale New Haven Hospital

Anar Mikailov, MD, FAAD. Board-Certified Dermatologist, Co-Founder of Skintensive, and Co-Author of Fitzpatrickâs Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology, 9th Edition

Dry Skin Symptoms

Mraz: Dry, flaky skin can be triggered by our environment (cold, dry weather), sun damage, over-bathing, sensitization from an allergic reaction, or injury to the skin. Anything that compromises the skin barrier can lead to dry, dehydrated skin that flakes.

Mikailov: Various factors include:

Genetic predisposition
Hormone status
External factors, such as products or environment (ambient humidity level and temperature)
Pregnancy
Perimenopause and menopause
Maturing skin

How does the skin on our face differ from that on our body?

Mraz: Skin needs vary by body part. Some of this is based on how much skin is exposed to the environment, and other times, it has to do with its structural makeup. For example, because the face is almost always exposed to the environment, it suffers more wear and tear from UV and weather exposure.

Mikailov: The skin on the face is thinner and more delicate than that on the rest of the body. The pores are also smaller, but sebaceous glands are more abundant on the face. Generally, the skin on the face should be treated more gently and delicately.

What skin types are more prone to dryness?

Mraz: As we age, our skin becomes more vulnerable to dryness. This is largely due to hormonal fluctuations that impact the amount of sebum our skin produces naturally. Skin prone to irritation or conditions like eczema is typically dryer. Some medical conditions are linked to dry skin, such as thyroid disease and anemia.

Mikailov: It’s a myth that all bumps on the skin are acne and can be treated with the same products and ingredients as facial acne. However, some bumps may be due to fungal acne, folliculitis, or any other infections that cause skin bumps. Sometimes, itâs best to see a board-certified dermatologist.

How to Address Common Causes of Dry, Flaky Skin

Mraz: Avoid long, hot showers, which dehydrate the skin and compromise the skin barrier. Also, avoid products with fragrance (or even anything that’s artificially fragrance-free) and alcohol, which can trigger dry skin and lead to irritation and eczema flare-ups.

Mikailov: After showers (ideally within three minutes), apply a rich moisturizer filled with plant-based ingredients that help maintain the skin barrier. Think plant oils and butters like coconut, jojoba, shea butter, squalane, and ceramides. Avoid harsh, strong soaps. Lukewarm water is much better than hot water, which can strip the skin of its natural oils.

For those who shower in the mornings, consider wearing compression socks after applying moisturizer and before heading to work. This is especially important for professionals on their feet! Compression socks are an excellent prevention approach to maintaining optimal vein health and preventing varicose veins. And for exposed parts of the body, donât forget to apply sunscreen with an adequate SPF.

Best Ingredients for Extremely Dry Skin

Mikailov: Look for emollients that increase skin hydration, repair the skin barrier, and reduce Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL). I prefer plant-based oils and butters like coconut oil and jojoba oil over mineral oil as they mimic the skinâs natural oils.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of my favorites for the bodyâespecially in infants and kids because it has been studied extensively in individuals with eczema. This natural plant-based oil has what I call “miracle” properties, including excellent moisture restoration (emollient properties) and moisture loss prevention (occlusive properties).

In addition to excellent emollient and occlusive properties, coconut oil is primarily made of lauric acid, a fatty acid that naturally lowers the bacterial burden of Staphylococcus aureus (SA). This bacteria is found in 60-100% of individuals with eczema, and a high bacterial burden is associated with poor eczema control.

Organic coconut oil is always an ingredient I recommend for my patients but it is challenging to find a product that is not too oily or greasy. KP Away Lipid Repair Emollient is one of few products on the market with under 10 ingredients that uses coconut oil and is fast-absorbing. Use twice daily, ensuring one of these applications is within three minutes after showering.

Squalane

This oil was created to replicate the squalene our body naturally produces. Squalene is secreted by our sebaceous glands to hydrate and protect our skin.

Ceramides

Ceramides are fatty acids found in abundance in all layers of our skin. Ceramides act as glue between skin cells and create a barrier to prevent allergens or toxic substances from penetrating the skin. One of the most critical parts of preventing eczema flares is replenishing this natural ceramide-based defense system. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a classic product with ceramides.

Sea Buckthorn

This is a plant-derived oil with incredible anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with other moisturizing factors, this oil has been found in multiple studies to help alleviate atopic dermatitis.

The Best Moisturizing Body Care Routine for Dry Skin

Sometimes, a tub of Vaseline cannot be beat. But there’s joy in crafting an extensive, elevated body care routine. Think of it as the Goldilocks ritual for dry, flaky skinâand the experts approve.

“Start by regularly exfoliating the skin on your body. This helps to move along dead skin cells and allows the products you apply afterward to penetrate more effectively,” says Dr Mraz. “I like dry-brushing before you hop in the shower for this or using a gentle, fine-particle scrub in the shower.

“For hydration and skin barrier repair, seek out humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and urea and emollients like ceramides, lanolin, and squalane. You can then add an occlusive layer, such as Vaseline or Aquaphor, on dry, scaly patches or areas like the elbows and knees. This helps seal the moisture youâve applied underneath. It also acts as a protective barrier between the skin and the outside world while it heals.”

Best Body Exfoliating Tools

Physical exfoliation isn’t just a satisfying addition to your routine; it’s a crucial first step to banishing dry, flaky skin. It also helps clear keratosis pilaris and supercharges your skin’s absorption of other hydrating products.

HigherDOSE Supercharge Copper Body Brush

Body brushing gently reveals smoother skin by polishing off surface debris while clearing clogged pores and prepping your body for deeper hydration. It’s also a meditative practice that can improve circulation and lymphatic drainage. The copper bristles in this dry brush help energize and detox your skin.

GOSHI Exfoliating Shower Towel

This exfoliating mesh shower net takes a traditional Japanese practice and puts it into your routine. The material is gentle but effective at scrubbing your skin, preventing breakouts, and resisting bacteriaâunlike your loofah.

Esker Body Plane

Inspired by ancient beauty rituals, this body plane pairs best with body oil to exfoliate and evenly spread your products. It scrapes off dead skin and unclogs pores while boosting circulation and product efficacy.

Best Hydrating Body Cleansers

Using a stripping cleanser can be one of the main causes of dry skin. Using the wrong cleanser sabotages your routine from the start. Any hydrating cleanser will do the trick for nourished, smooth skin.

iota Supervitamin Body Wash+ Clarifying

If you’re trying to heal your body microbiome (skin barrier), this is the cleanser for you. iota makes products to balance pre- and post-biotics, which is key for achieving your healthiest skin.

Nopalera Cactus Shower Gel

I’m calling it now: prickly pear is the next buzzy beauty ingredient. Filled with hydrating ingredients and vitamins, it makes this juicy shower gel a hydrating hero.

Alo Mega-C Body Wash

Antioxidants and vitamin C combine with natural oils to make this ultra-hydrating cleanser. It’s ideal for your gym bag to cleanse and prevent breakouts after a workout without stripping your skin.

Best Body Oils

To maximize absorption, the best time to apply body oils is while your skin is still damp. Choose oils that are lightweight, fast-absorbing, and full of nourishing ingredients that hydrate and strengthen your skin.

Osea Malibu Undaria Algae Body Oil

Enriched with superfood sea algae and antioxidants, this hydrating body oil is proven to improve skin elasticity for skin that isn’t just smooth, but also toned and sculpted.

BYOMA Nourishing Body Oil

This barrier-boosting oil contains dermatologist-recommended ingredients like jojoba oil and sea buckthorn oil. Combined with the brand’s signature barrier lipid complex, these ingredients help strengthen your skin barrier for glowy, healthy skin all over.

Wonder Valley Hinoki Body Oil

An olive oil base makes this nourishing oil an anti-aging superstar that deeply nourishes and protects for soft, smooth skin. Plus, the smell of Japanese hinoki is intoxicating in all the best ways.

Best Chemical Body Exfoliators

Chemical exfoliants work on and beneath the skin’s surface to prevent flaky skin and encourage cell regeneration, energizing your skin and helping maintain its elasticity.

Kosas Good Body Skin AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash

Add chemical exfoliants to your in-shower routine with this gently exfoliating body wash. I swear by its combination of enzymes and AHAs to slough off dead skin cells and cleanse deep within your pores to prevent dry, flaky skin causes before they occur.

U Beauty Resurfacing Body Compound

Promote cell turnover with this radical body treatment. It resurfaces dead skin cells, clears clogged pores, and breaks down body bumps to banish dry, flaky skin. Trust: it’s well worth the splurge.

Youth To The People 10% AHA + Yerba Mate Smoothing Energy Body Scrub

Combine physical and chemical exfoliation with this AHA body scrub. Lactic and glycolic acids gently clear pores, while olive powder and jojoba beads buff away pore-clogging impurities. Meanwhile, energizing ingredients and antioxidants ensure that your skin is not stripped.

Best Hydrating Body Serums

These moisturizing body treatments are designed to infuse your skin with extra hydration and promote a strong, healthy skin barrier.

Soft Services Speed Soak Skin Rehydrating Gel

This ultra-hydrating lotion quenches your skin’s thirst and rapidly seeps into your skin without residue.

NÃ©cessaire The Body Serum

All the best ingredients come together in this serumâhyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, glycerin, aloe, and more. No wonder it’s a fan favorite.

Topicals Like Butter Body Mist

This hydrating serum mists over your skin, infusing it with soothing ingredients to prevent dryness and flakes. Its silky texture seeps into your skin without stickiness or residue.

Best Body Sunscreens

Sun exposure can wreck all your hard work by weakening your skin barrier â so be sure to wear adequate SPF and reapply often. Here are the sunscreens that are hydrating and preventative.

Bask Suncare SPF 50 Lotion

I recently took this on vacation and all my friends kept asking to borrow this. My staple sunscreen, I use it head to toe and am always impressed by the smooth texture, the lack of white cast, and the compliments I get on its scent.

Cay Skin Isle Body Oil SPF 30

This lightweight oil gives your skin an instant glow while protecting your skin from the elements. It contains hydrating ingredients like sea moss and squalane for long-lasting hydration.

Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray Sunscreen

What can’t this body spray do? It’s SPF 50, fortified with nourishing niacinamide, and has that signature Sol de Janeiro scent. I can’t get enough of this for beach days since it’s a treat to reapply.

More Tools to Add to Your Body Care Routine

These effective, and sometimes unexpected, tools address dry, flaky skin causes from the root.

Hey Dewy Wireless Humidifier

Sleeping with a humidifier keeps your skin from drying out while you sleep. This portable humidifier sits on your bedside and keeps your face and body moisturized.

Bombas Everyday Compression socks

As Mikailov suggests, sleeping in compression socks keeps blood flowing and prevents varicose veins. It also increases your products’ efficacy while you sleep.

Hanni Water Balm Custom Hydration Body Moisturizer Mist

This weightless spray is perfect for topping off your routine and refreshing skin during the day. It gently mists over your skin and hydrates like a deep moisturizer with no sticky residue.

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Lifestyle

18 Avocado Recipes to Enjoy Year-Round

Published

1 day ago

May 19, 2024

Casey McKee

If there’s one thing I’ve gained from adulthood, it’s a love for many of the foods I shied away from as a kid. Exhibit A: Avocados—one of the most mouthwatering foods that nature has bestowed on us. Thanks to their versatility and vibrant color, avocados have gone viral over the past few years—and I’m fully on board. The only problem? I want to include avocados in almost every single meal I make! Thankfully, the Camille Styles team is full of avocado obsessives—and have stopped at nothing to incorporate the fruit into as many dishes as we can dream up.

So grab your ripest avocado from the fruit bowl and see just how many ways you can transform one ingredient. Possibilities: endless.

18 of the Best Avocado Recipes on the Internet

When it comes to avocado recipes, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. This fruit can be paired with anything from bright and tangy citruses to fresh fish. Additionally, avocados pack plenty of goodness like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C, E, K, and B6, as well as magnesium and potassium. Delicious and nutrient-dense? We love.

So, if you have a spare avocado lying around your kitchen waiting to be prepared, let’s get into it!

Avocado Caprese Salad

Why We Love It: If I’m hosting, any caprese salad will find itself on my menu. It’s partially due to the ease of throwing this salad together, but I also love (re: adore) this flavor combination. Add an avocado to the mix, and I’m sold. The creamy bite is the perfect complement to vine-ripened tomatoes and big tears of burrata.

Hero Ingredient: There’s nothing that’s not made better with a small sprinkle of flaky salt. This salad included.

Spicy Tuna Tostadas

Why We Love It: I can’t get enough of these tuna tostadas, inspired by Camille’s visit to Contramar in Mexico City. The avocado in this recipe balances a blend of spicy and savory flavors. From fresh jalapeños to crispy shallots, this recipe has it all.

Hero Ingredient: The chipotle aioli spread on the tortilla brings these tostadas to the next level.

Smoky and Spicy Cauliflower Salad

Why We Love It: When our food editor, Suruchi, first created this recipe, I was immediately hooked by its stunning appearance. After trying it out for myself, I was blown away by the incredible flavor of the spicy cauliflower and roasted chickpeas, complemented perfectly by avocado and creamy feta cheese.

Hero Ingredient: A bit of dill is a flavorful touch to this hearty salad.

Grapefruit Avocado Salad

Why We Love It: Fruit salads are always a go-to recipe during the summer months, and this salad is no exception. Paired with a golden turmeric-honey dressing and garnished with fresh herbs, it’s hard not to love these flavors.

Hero Ingredient: Chickpeas keep this salad hearty and full of protein.

Avocado Toast with Kale Pesto

Why We Love It: This isn’t your ordinary avocado toast. While I love the simplicity of plain avocado toast, it’s hard not to turn to this recipe, topped with a bit of homemade kale pesto (I promise it’s not as intimidating as it sounds!) and everything bagel seasoning.

Hero Ingredient: Either thinly sliced cucumber or radishes will add an extra crunch and color to this toast.

Chickpea Corn and Avocado Salad

Why We Love It: Avocados are frequently used in Mexican-inspired dishes. Enter this chickpea and avocado salad. With roasted poblano peppers and juice from fresh limes, it’s simple and comes together in a few short steps.

Hero Ingredient: Cilantro gives this salad’s sauce a gorgeous and vibrant green hue.

Avocado Slaw

Why We Love It: Maybe it’s my southern side, but once I hear the word slaw, I’m sold. This recipe is a twist on the classic, adding heat from a fresh jalapeño and a balanced and creamy texture brought in by the avocado.

Hero Ingredient: The avocado introduces a nice creamy contrast to the crunchy cabbage.

Pita Tostadas with Butternut Squash with Black Beans and Avocados

Why We Love It: I could eat tacos and tostadas every week, and this recipe is always one of my favorite varieties. Instead of your typical tortilla, the pita makes for a fluffier base that pairs well with the sweet and savory toppings.

Hero Ingredient: Whenever butternut squash is involved, it’s always the hero ingredient.

Lime-y Chicken Tacos with Jicama Avocado Mint

Why We Love It: Like I said, tacos and tostadas are staples in my diet. I’m always looking for new and creative variations, and these tacos with agave-lime chicken are the perfect way to break away from the norm.

Hero Ingredient: As Camille says, “Fresh mint literally makes these tacos, so do not skip it. Unless you hate mint—in which case, go for the cilantro.”

Tomato, Avocado, and Cucumber Salad

Why We Love It: Light and fresh with a bit of heat, this avocado and cucumber salad embodies the warmer months. If you’re a bit skeptical about tomatoes in your salad, Camille suggests picking a super-ripe fruit. It’s the key to optimal satisfaction.

Hero Ingredient: A little fresh mozzarella never hurt anyone.

Mango, Avocado, and Feta Salad

Why We Love It: This salad is perfect for when your body needs a total reset. With a crunchy addition of pistachios and ripe and juicy mangos, it’s the perfect blend of salty and sweet. Plus, the majority—if not all—of the salad toppings are most likely already in your fridge or pantry.

Hero Ingredient: A squeeze of lemon juice lends a little citrusy perfection.

Tuna Nicoise Toast

Why We Love It: This tuna nicoise toast puts your typical avocado toast to shame. Juicy oven-roasted tomatoes are caramelized to perfection and have a mouth-watering effect when paired with high-quality bread. Sourdough or ciabatta are my go-to picks.

Hero Ingredient: While not a must-have ingredient, kale pesto takes this toast to the next level.

Sunday Night Avocado Toast

Why We Love It: I love a quick and easy avocado toast recipe in a pinch, and this toast is just that. With a jammy egg (an ingredient that’s recently become my favorite addition to many dishes), a pinch of everything bagel seasoning, and of course, avocado, this toast is one you can enjoy every morning. Or any time of day. Who’s keeping track?

Hero Ingredient: A squeeze of lime juice. Don’t knock it till you try it!

Avocado Toast Bar

Why We Love It: For those looking to level up their avocado toast, check out this inspo for an avocado toast bar. If you have an upcoming brunch or maybe just love going all-out for Sunday morning breakfast, this is the best way to keep every guest happy.

Hero Ingredient: There are so many options to choose from, but crunchy cucumbers are my favorite.

Smashed Avocado Toast

Why We Love It: This avocado toast will make you feel as if you’re dining at a laid-back cafe enjoying brunch with your closest friends. Inspired by Two Hands NYC, this toast comes together with a drizzle of olive oil and a touch of red chili flakes that enhance the flavor of chunky and smooth mashed avocado.

Hero Ingredient: One of my life hacks for elevated avocado toast is simply adding a poached egg.

Corn and Avocado Salad

Why We Love It: Looking for a side dish to please your guests at every dinner party? There are very few ways to go wrong if you’re preparing this corn and avocado salad. With a crunchy red bell pepper, a bunch of dill, and several ears of fresh corn, you can throw together a delicious appetizer in no time.

Hero Ingredient: A touch of olive oil is key.

Roasted Beet Tostadas with Avocado Cream, Goat Cheese, and Pepitas

Why We Love It: When a flavor-forward recipe meets visual perfection, you know you have a winning dish. This is one of those quick and easy recipes I love to repeat with any leftovers. It features a to-die-for avocado crema, caramelized roasted beets, and my personal favorite, goat cheese.

Hero Ingredient: A light and fluffy flatbread is the ideal foundation for these stunning tostadas.

Roasted Beet, Avocado, and Pistachio Salad

Why We Love It: Last but certainly not least, this gorgeous, warm-weather-approved salad. Pro tip: roast extra beets for the tostadas above and make this salad the next day. It’s a great opportunity to give your leftovers new life. And maybe it’s an unpopular opinion, but you can never have too much of beets’ beautiful, earthy flavor.

Hero Ingredient: A little bit of citrus brightens up your taste buds.

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Lifestyle

8 Tips You Haven’t Tried

Published

1 day ago

May 19, 2024

Kelly Krause

Summer is on the horizon, but I’m finally just getting into spring cleaning my life. Honestly, it’s equal parts overwhelming and refreshing. Coming off a busy holiday season straight into lots of events and work travel, I finally had a solid break in my schedule to assess what’s working and what’s not. In addition to my never-ending closet clean-out project and general organization, one thing I really needed to overhaul was my finances.

Does anyone else get to that point where you check your bank account or credit card statement and you’re like, wait one second, how did this happen? If not, you’re lucky. Between the holidays and travel, I admittedly neglected many personal routines. And finances were one of them. Now, no major cause for concern—I’m not insinuating that I’m in financial peril here. But taking some time to self-reflect gave me the boost I needed to get back on track with a budget and really examine my spending.

How I’m Approaching My Season of Savings

After reverting back to a plan my financial advisor gave me years ago, I came up with a strategy to ensure I have a good buffer for bills, entertainment, savings, and fun, all while saving extra money where I can. I’m calling this era my season of savings. My mission? To make it fun—not dreadful.

I have three accounts dedicated to monthly goals. So far, with some discipline, it’s been easy. Those accounts are:

bills/must-pays
my future/savings
fun/entertainment/travel

Keep reading for eight tips on how I’m approaching this season of savings. Plus, get insights into how you can apply this strategy to your own life—without feeling restricted.

Update Subscriptions

After reviewing my credit card statement and Apple Pay account, I realized I had a lot of duplicate and dormant subscriptions. I’m talking $5/month for an Instagram filter app I’ve never used once, or a Spotify subscription AND SiriusXM subscription, when I only really use one. This was a pretty easy fix and one that significantly saves me each month.

Make it happen: Set aside an hour to review your subscriptions. You can go to your Apple ID in your iPhone, and tap “Subscriptions” to view all your active subscriptions, how much you’re paying, and when they renew. Alternatively, I’ve had lots of friends recommend Rocket Money, which allows you to view all your subscriptions—across all platforms—in one place.

Give My Nails a Break

This one is tough for me because I love getting my nails done. But after years of gel manicures, my nails are feeling the impact. They’ve gotten tissue-thin and brittle and while there’s a bit of debate on whether you should let your nails breathe, this seems like a good time to pause a $100/month habit.

Make it happen: Consider the naked nails trend. Camille recently posted this glowy nail treatment polish for $16 that strengthens my nails and keeps them looking clean. In between, I’m using this repair keratin serum for $25. Both products cost less than one manicure, so I’m still giving my nails love without the splurge.

Reframe Happy Hour

I’ve taken a break from drinking. (I’m diving deep into that topic in a future story—stay tuned.) This one was an easier move for me than I thought. Anytime a friend asks if I want to grab a drink or go to happy hour, I try one of a few things: first, offer up a coffee meeting instead. This usually works better for my work schedule anyway, as I work for a west coast company and my days tend to run longer. Plus, a $4 cold brew (where I usually have just one) beats a $15 cocktail (where I usually have at 2+).

Second, rather than go for a drink, I see if we can catch up for a walk or a workout. I try to go for a walk almost every single day whether it’s 3-5 miles or simply a 30-minute, low-key coffee walk, so this is always my favorite way to connect with friends. And if all else fails, my go-to order of sparkling water and lime is always a cheaper option than a drink!

Make it happen: Happy hour is often our default way to get together with friends. Instead, reflect on other catch-up options that not only allow you to connect, but that let you pour into other high-value activities. Try pairing it with exercise like me, or suggest something else you’ve been dying to do. (Craft night, anyone?)

Get Creative With Groceries

I didn’t realize how much I was over-buying groceries and sadly wasting a lot of what I purchased. Aside from giving myself a weekly budget, I’ve started to get creative with both what I have on hand already and what I’m buying. In the past, I haven’t been motivated to whip up something creative and instead would splurge on a $20 salad at a local neighborhood spot. Doing that 3-5 times a month adds up quickly, so I’ve made it a fun adventure to use up everything I have to cut costs.

Here’s what that looks like: I’ve taken remaining veggies and sautéed them and topped with an egg and hot sauce for a nourishing bowl. I’ve used leftover ground bison, added a little marinara and a sprinkle of cheese for an Italian-style bake. And all of those packets of tuna that I’ve saved for a rainy, don’t-feel-like-cooking kind of day are the easiest thing to add to a quick seaweed wrap.

The point is: rather than grabbing a quick salad or sandwich, I use what I’ve got on hand first. Chat GPT has saved me a few times when I’ve typed in ingredients I have on hand to come up with something good to make.

Make it happen: This is where meal prep is your friend. Camille shares her go-to meal prep strategy here. Stock up on staples and prep them on Sunday to give yourself mix-and-match options that’ll last you the week. (And that you won’t get bored of by Tuesday.)

Use Gift Cards Up!

Over the years, I’ve gotten a plethora of gift cards from friends and family to restaurants, spas, and stores. And… I almost always forget about using them in the moment and they go unused or worse, expire. Pro tip: Always use restaurant gift cards when you get them. I’ve had two restaurants close over the years and gift cards ultimately went unused.

Make it happen: My strategy might be a little *extra* but it ensures I use up all my gift cards. I create a spreadsheet with every single gift card, the location, and the dollar amount, plus a note next to who gave it to me. That way, anytime I reach to buy something online and book an appointment, I make sure I’m using a gift card and can send a follow up note to that person reminding them how thankful I was to use it.

While you might not have gift cards laying around, I bet you have emails from brands offering discounts for your birthday/birthday month or “first time guest” discounts you can use. Every little bit adds up.

Clothing In/Clothing Out

At this point, I could be admitted into Black Dress Jail for the amount of black dresses that live in my closet. Sure, each one looks a little different than the next, but not that different. So before anything enters my closet, I’m doing a major overhaul and getting rid of a LOT. Like, half of my closet. And before anything can come in, I have to get rid of at least three things. In just one week I loaded up three full ThredUp bags to the post office and went on an eBay posting spree on cycling gear I no longer wear.

Make it happen: There are countless ways to donate or sell your clothing. Visit your local thrift store and see what they’ll take. Or, Madewell has a great program with ThredUp to either sell or recycle your used clothing. The fun/social part of this is opening up my closet to friends to borrow dresses and outfits from one another so we can also curb our spending a bit. It’s such an easy way to feel like you’re wearing something new (to you). This strategy is way cheaper than buying new or utilizing Rent the Runway or a similar service.

Host Friends > Going Out

Maybe it’s my age and less about saving money, but at 42, my friends and I are leaning heavily into simple, quality evenings together. Rather than get dressed up and go out to dinner for a recent birthday, my friend opened her home and everyone was tasked with bringing a side dish for a dinner in. We wore cozies, didn’t buy gifts, and just enjoyed everyone’s company. (Not to mention probably saved $100+ each.)

Don’t get me wrong, I love trying new restaurants and throwing on a fun dress to go out, but when it comes to literally everything in my life right now, I’m trying to simplify and refine. An easy night in, grabbing something healthy from Trader Joe’s, wearing a comfy outfit, with a good playlist in the background is my idea of a good time these days. (Pro tip: Mimic the vibe of your favorite hotel with a curated playlist. I love this one from Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin.)

Make it happen: We compiled all the best hosting ideas and inspiration, right here.

Rethink Entertainment

Every year I say some variation on the same: This will be the year I read more. Inevitably, I end up reading no more than two books. It’s partly because I cram every waking moment with work, creative projects, and friend hangs, so when I actually have time to relax, I want to do nothing but lay down and get caught in a TV show. But I miss getting lost in a good book and the conversations reading inspires.

I was at a cocktail event the other week and two girlfriends talked about a book they both wanted to read, which I happened to have a copy of on my bookshelf. (My very FULL bookshelf of unread books begging for my attention.) It was the perfect opportunity to start the book and set a date to chat about it with my friends. I’ve never been a part of a book club, so I have no clue if I’ll even like it, but this hang costs virtually nothing. What’s more, I also get an evening away from home, time to pour into my friendships, and the chance to have my mind expanded through good conversation.

Make it happen: These are our favorite new reads of the season. Browse what’s available at the library or, spend a little at your local bookstore to support the author. Plan an evening with friends to get together and chat about the book. Trust me: while you’ll love talking about literature, the conversation will drift to every other area of your lives. It’s the perfect way to get caught up.

The Takeaway

Hop on social media, and it can seem like everyone is always either taking a lavish vacation or out to a dinner with friends. It’s easy to assume that others are having more fun or able to spend more without caring how it may impact their finances. With everyone’s lives always available to us with a quick swipe, the temptation to compare can be difficult to avoid.

But I hope these budget-saving strategies serve as a reminder that it’s fun to get creative not only with how we spend our money, but how we prioritize our time. I’m loving trying new things in the kitchen and opting for new ways to catch up with friends. Let these tips inspire you to switch things up—and maybe even make a little more progress on your reading list, too!

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Lifestyle

Your 10-Piece Summer Capsule Wardrobe for 2024

Published

2 days ago

May 18, 2024

Bridget Chambers

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Summer is (finally!) here, and I’ve spent the last couple of weeks transitioning my closet for the new season. What started as a cleanout and reorganization mission evolved into a thoughtful evaluation of everything I own—and what holes needed to be filled. With limited storage space, it became clear that every piece I purchased needed to be multi-wear, functional, and a true ten-out-of-ten. Working in fashion, it can also be tempting to overconsume, so I’ve realigned my priorities to build a summer capsule wardrobe that puts quality over quantity.

After a huge purge, the coats and boots have made their way to the back of the closet, and I’ve built a 10-piece summer capsule wardrobe full of linen, wovens, and sandals that has taken center stage. I think I’ve finally cracked the code to effortlessly chic summer dressing. The secret? Less truly is more.

The Summer Capsule Wardrobe Checklist

Find out exactly what you need for your summer capsule wardrobe below, and allow your closet to work smarter, not harder in summer 2024.

Simple Sundress
Lightweight Top
Breezy Bottom
Non-Denim Shorts & Skirt
Layering Tee & Tank
White Denim
Everyday Sunglasses
Summery Sandals
Seasonal Straw Bag
Protective Sun Hat

Simple Sundress

For all of the minimalists out there, a solid sundress can be a summer capsule wardrobe in and of itself. A sundress is a one-and-done outfit, is easy to pack on vacation, and keeps you cool while looking effortless. This summer, I’m looking for midi-to-full length sundresses that I can pair with sandals, sneakers, or heels, depending on where I’m headed. I love styling summer sundresses with a statement belt and a thin knit draped over my shoulders to add a bit of depth to the look.

Lightweight Tops

I grew up in Texas, and one of the most difficult things about summer shopping is finding tops that are breathable enough to wear in peak heat. Even though I now live in Los Angeles, I still gravitate toward sleeveless vests, breezy button-downs, and girly blouses that don’t leave me in a puddle of sweat.

Brands like DOEN, Reformation, and The Great have lots of lightweight and flowy tops that I love to style with denim, linen, and silk all summer long. My favorite top in my summer capsule wardrobe is my linen vest from DISSH, as it’s as cool as a tank top, but feels a little more styled and chic.

Breezy Bottoms

Although I still wear jeans all year round, I’ve been looking to expand my selection of pants with linen and silk pairs for summer. I’ve found that these airy alternatives are not only more comfortable and breathable but exude the laid-back energy that I’m trying to channel this year. (Plus, nothing is worse than a tight pair of jeans on a summer sunburn.) Investing in a trusty pair of white linen pants will be the best thing you can do for yourself this summer. This is the definition of working smarter, not harder—these pants will match every top in your closet.

Non-Denim Shorts & Skirts

While there is nothing wrong with denim shorts and skirts, I personally find them uncomfortable. I know that might be a hot take, but I don’t think I’ve worn my denim shorts in over a year. Instead, I gravitate toward flowy shorts and skirts that aren’t too short or too tight. I find that the more a-line shape a pair of shorts or a skirt has, the more flattering they are on the leg. This year, I’m filling this slot in my summer capsule wardrobe with longer, more tailored shorts and full-length linen skirts.

Layering Tees & Tanks

Every good summer capsule wardrobe starts with one-to-two layering bases. My requirements for layering tees and tanks are that they are long enough to tuck in, are not too tight around my arms, and are thick enough not to show my bra underneath. Once you find a good white or black tee/tank, the outfit possibilities are endless. If you’re looking for a foolproof summer outfit formula, pair one of these white tanks or tees with linen pants, a comfy sandal, a sweater draped over your shoulders, and a raffia bag. Sometimes, simpler is simply better.

White Denim

One of my favorite summer style trends is an all-white look. I’m a sucker for white jeans and a white top with a pop-of-color shoe and bag, so finding a reliable pair of white denim jeans is essential for my summer capsule wardrobe. You can’t go wrong with any cut of white denim, as this is a classic trend that will never go out of style. White denim overalls are also a great summer purchase to style over a white tee or a bikini at the beach. Bonus points for rewearing these pieces into fall and winter—we love a winter white!

Summery Sandals

Summer is the season of sandals, so say goodbye to your favorite boots and hello to biweekly pedicures! Whether you lean toward basic dad sandals or sexy strappy numbers, your choice in sandal should be neutral, comfortable, and durable. It’s easy to be woo-ed by trendy shoes, but a true summer capsule wardrobe sandal is timeless and versatile enough to pair with every item on this list. I look for sandals that are easy to slip on and off for beach days and grassy picnics, and lay flat in a suitcase for all of my summer adventures.

Seasonal Straw Bags

Perhaps my favorite part about summer rolling around is dusting off my woven raffia and straw bags to style all season long. Though this material will be forever reminiscent of my mom’s beach bag growing up, I love that designers have been using raffia in more modern, structured designs, giving the look a laid-back but still trendy feel. Plus, straw is a neutral, so it will match and add a seasonal flare to every outfit you create with this summer capsule wardrobe. From the farmer’s market to the beach and out to dinner, these bags can truly do (and hold) it all.

Protective Sun Hats

When I envision summer chicness, every look is topped off with the perfect floppy sun hat. There’s just something so opulent about a big hat and dark sunglasses that takes a basic summer outfit from simple to sexy. It’s also as functional as it is fashionable, protecting your skin during the sunny days ahead. I’m on the hunt for the perfect neutral raffia sun hat to wear at the beach with bikinis, on long walks in activewear, and everywhere in between. If a full-brim hat isn’t your style, a classic baseball hat adds a cool-girl touch to the summer capsule wardrobe while still covering your face, too.

Everyday Sunglasses

I like to think of sunglasses as the cherry on top of a summer capsule wardrobe: not entirely essential, but a small finishing touch that goes a long way. I went through a phase of purchasing multiple trendy, colorful sunglasses, but after having to pack four pairs of glasses for a three-day trip, I finally said enough is enough and found a well-fitting, neutral pair that goes with everything. Sunglasses also have a tendency to get left on the dinner table or swept into the ocean, so don’t feel like you have to spend a pretty penny on this element of your summer capsule wardrobe. A designer pair of sunglasses is always a fun splurge, but more affordable pairs earn just as many compliments minus the price tag.

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