Active Clothing for Comfort and Style | Well+Good https://www.wellandgood.com/active-clothing/ Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:20:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2 https://www.wellandgood.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/favicon-194x194-150x150.png Active Clothing for Comfort and Style | Well+Good https://www.wellandgood.com/active-clothing/ 32 32 The 10 Comfiest, Most Breathable Skorts for Summer (and Beyond) https://www.wellandgood.com/best-summer-skorts/ Sun, 02 Jul 2023 18:00:28 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1078909 Skorts are back, baby! As a self-proclaimed skort-lover, I couldn’t be more thrilled about the news. While it’s been a very, very long time since I rocked a skort—we’re talking Limited Too days—this trend resurgence made me want to suss out the very best skorts to assist my fellow fans.

While skorts are nothing new, the designs today truly are innovative in both textile and design. And I would know! For this piece, I tried over two dozen versions, paying close attention to sizing, length, breathability, comfort, and, of course, color selection. Ahead, find the 10 best skorts of 2023.

What materials to look for in a skort

Once upon a time, skorts were primarily sold in cotton and polyester. Nowadays, they’re available in all sorts of fabrics, including denim, khaki, spandex, and, best of all, recycled materials. No matter your textile preference, you’re bound to be able to find a skort that fits your fancy. That said, if your main goal is comfort, skorts designed with a bit of stretch (whether in the form of spandex or elastane) are best, as are those made with lightweight, breathable material (like cotton and polyester).

The 10 best skorts for Summer 2023

Most versatile:

Athleta, Transcend Skort — $79.00

Available sizes: XXS-3XL

Size tested: L

Of the dozens of skorts I tried, the Athleta Transcend Skort surprised me most of all. When I unpackaged it, I wasn’t impressed with the silhouette (to say the least). It’s long and ruched on the sides and, to be frank, looked like something I would never wear. But then I put it on. The buttery-soft black skirt is so versatile, I cannot emphasize this enough: If you’re looking for a skort that you can run errands in, run to the office in, and run to the bar in, this is it.

It can be worn fully extended to hit right around the knees, or it can be pushed up to be a mid-thigh or mini skirt. No matter how high you push it up, though, it never looks bulky or bunched. And the fact that it has pockets and a breathable mesh gusset on the shorts underneath? I’m swooning.

Of course, no product (or at least very, very few) is truly perfect. My one complaint about this skort is that it has the Athleta logo in white on the back waistband. If it didn’t have that, you’d truly never guess that this is from an athletic brand.

Material: Polyester and spandex
Colors: 4

Pros:

  • Adjustable length
  • Hidden pockets
  • Breathable gusset

Cons:

  • Visible logo on the back

Best running skort:

Free People Movement, On Point Skort — $30.00

Originally $50, now $30

Available sizes: XS- XL

Size tested: L

The FP Movement On Point Skort is so breezy and breathable that it barely felt like I had anything on. Of course, that may have also been due to the super short silhouette. Keep in mind, this skort has a flowy dolphin hem, so it lets the shorts peek out from beneath on the sides while being fully covered from the front and back. It’s because of this hem and the breezy, lightweight fabric that this skirt is particularly fab for jogging and running. One more thing: If you’re not into logos of any kind, know that the shorts have a small FP Movement logo.

Material: Polyester and elastane
Colors: 3

Pros:

  • Super lightweight
  • Elastic waistband
  • Drawstring for adjustability
  • Side pockets

Cons:

  • Sold out in some sizes/colors
  • Is very short (shorts: 10-inch rise, 2.5-inch inseam)  

Best crossover skort:

OFFLINE By Aerie, Real Me Crossover Tennis Skort — $30.00

Available sizes: XXS-XXL

Size tested: L

The OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me High Waisted Legging is my go-to everyday black legging, so when I saw that the brand debuted a skort in the same buttery fabric, I had to get my hands on it. Like the leggings, this skort fits like a dream. The crossover waistband is wide, so it doesn’t dig in, nor fall down. The material is super lightweight and the shorts are long enough to prevent my thighs from chafing. All wins in my book.

Material: Nylon and elastane
Colors: 2

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Breathable
  • Stretchy and unrestrictive

Cons:

  • No pockets
  • Only two colors (black and white)

Best denim skort:

AFRM, Madelyn Mini Skirt — $88.00

Available sizes: 24-32

Size tested: 32

A denim skort! Despite being a devoted skort wearer back in the ‘90s and early ‘00s, I’d never see a denim skort (unless it was one of those ones that looked like shorts from the back). While I typically despise non-stretch denim, AFRM nailed it with its Madelyn Mini Skirt, which looks like a true high-waisted mini but features shorts underneath. I particularly love the thigh slit on this skort, though, in my size, I find that it pulls a bit despite fitting overall.

Material: Cotton denim
Colors: 1

Pros:

  • Cute style
  • Relaxed feel
  • Back zipper

Cons:

  • Slight gaping at the waist
  • Slight pulling at the slit

Best tennis skort:

Lululemon, Court Rival High-Rise Skirt — $88.00

Available sizes: 0-14

Size tested: 12

The Lululemon Court Rival High-Rise Skirt feels a lot like the Free People one, only instead of showcasing the shorts on the side, it has extra fabric to conceal them. The skort has a wide elastic band that doesn’t dig in or roll down, and is made of moisture-wicking fabric designed with four-way stretch for optimal comfort and movement.

My favorite feature? The dual-entry pockets that let you store tennis balls from the bottom and items you don’t want to fall out from the top. But that’s not all: The right pocket even has a reinforced cord hole, that I imagine is for weaning headphones through. (Though, I’m not sure who still uses corded headphones, so that may not be quite the perk the brand intended.)

Material: Polyester, elastane, nylon
Colors: 7

Pros:

  • Lightweight and breezy  
  • Full coverage
  • Stretchy
  • Unique pockets for tennis balls
  • Mesh panels for airflow

Cons:

  • Select styles/colors sold out
  • Silicone grippers might be uncomfortable for some

Best khaki skort:

Abercrombie & Fitch, Pleated Chino Mini Skort — $48.00

Originally $60, now $48

Available sizes: XXS -XL

Size tested: L

Abercrombie & Fitch is another brand that’s really upped their game in the past few years. While they have a few styles that I genuinely love and look forward to wearing this summer, none compare to the Abercrombie & Fitch Pleated Chino Mini Skort.

Thought it gaps a bit in the waist, the soft, lightweight skort has edgy pleating and small belt loops for a ‘90s or early ‘00s skater vibe. Best of all, the shorts, while offering full coverage, feel light the coziest PJ shorts, so this is a genuine delight to wear all day long. (P.S. It looks a lot like the Free People Heartbreaker Skort Taylor Swift was seen wearing recently, but for nearly half the price.)

Material: Cotton and elastane
Colors: 2

Pros:

  • Soft yet structured
  • Lightweight
  • Belt loops

Cons:

  • Slight gaping at the waist
  • Select colors/sizes sold out
  • Only sold in two neutral colors

Best cotton skort:

Victoria's Secret Pink, Cotton Active Skort — $30.00

Available sizes: XS- XXL
Size tested: L

Craving more cotton in your wardrobe? The Pink Cotton Active Skort is a nice option. The mini silhouette features a flirty slit detail that looks straight out of the ‘90s or early ‘00s. It shows off a peek of the shorts beneath, which have built-in pockets. And since it has a cotton gusset, you can go commando without any concern (should you want to, that is).

Just keep in mind that, since it’s made primarily with cotton (with a touch of stretch), it likely will show sweat lines, so you may not want to get too active (or too hot) in it. I also recommend going a size up as it runs small.

Material: Cotton and elastane
Colors: 5

Pros:

  • Fun colors
  • Breathable
  • Slit detailing

Cons:

  • Might show sweat easily/not dry fast
  • Runs small

Best pleated skort:

Adidas, Ultimate365 Tour Pleated 15-Inch Golf Skort — $51.00

Originally $85, now $51

Available sizes: XS-XL

Size tested: L

The Adidas Ultimate365 Tour Pleated 15-Inch Golf Skort is longer and more modest but that bright orangey-red color drew me in. Beyond looks, the skort is made with super soft and remarkable lightweight jersey and polyester that has a slight athletic sheen (you know what I’m talking about).

Material: Jersey and recycled polyester
Colors: 3

Pros:

  • Classic pleated design  
  • Wide band with zip pocket
  • Hidden exterior pockets
  • Hidden pocket underneath shorts

Cons:

  • Runs large
  • Longer than other skorts

Most unique design:

Nike, NikeCourt Dri-FIT Advantage Women's Pleated Tennis Skirt — $48.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

I love the look of the NikeCourt Dri-FIT Advantage Women’s Pleated Tennis Skirt, which features a flowy skirt overlay that’s long enough to conceal the crotch of the spandex shorts underneath, but not long enough to cover up the hems—but it’s purposeful. It’s a quirky, design-forward silhouette that I could see working to tennis, as well as running to the farmer’s market.

Material: Recycled polyester
Colors: 5

Pros:

  • Wide elastic waistband  
  • Breathable spandex shorts
  • Hidden side pockets
  • Colorful

Cons:

  • Sold out in some colors/sizes

Best golf skort:

Spanx, Sunshine Skort — $88.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

If you like the look of old-school skorts where you can see the shorts from the back—and if you love the idea of light shaping—the Spanx Sunshine Skort might be a solid choice. The new style features a mid-rise with a modest short, making it great for golfers and those looking for more coverage in general.

Material: Nylon and elastane
Colors: 4

Pros:

  • UPF 50+  
  • Pull-on design
  • Chlorine and salt-resistant fabric
  • Faux-wrap style
  • Functional back pockets

Cons:

  • Shows shorts from the back like a traditional skort
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We Tested Hoka Running Gear From Hats to Socks (No Shoes!), and These Are the 10 Best Pieces https://www.wellandgood.com/best-hoka-running-gear/ Sat, 01 Jul 2023 15:00:34 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1071165 As a journalist and avid runner, I’ve been testing running shoes at least once a month over the past five months. My favorites are unequivocally Hoka sneakers, and despite being very familiar with the brand’s footwear, I had no idea that Hoka also designed running apparel. In fact, I only found out they produced such garments because I loved their shoes so much that I wanted to see what else the brand made. Enter: any and all the best Hoka running gear I could get my hands on.

Because of the top-notch performance of the sneakers I’ve tested, I figured that I couldn’t go wrong with giving my workout wardrobe a Hoka renovation (i.e., one specific to running). Turns out, I was right.

Why it’s important to have gear specifically for running

I used to think that all workout clothes were created equal, that I could just use the same-old gym clothes that I would wear on the weight-room floor or yoga class on my runs. However, I quickly realized that running requires its own wardrobe because it’s a completely different motion. Instead of being stationary, I’m moving forward constantly. Moreover, I often run outdoors, meaning I need to consider the weather and dress accordingly.

Up until a few weeks ago, my workout gear was still basically comprised solely of yoga sets, which aren’t exactly designed to help you run miles on miles on miles. Tired of having leggings with no pockets and too-short outfits that led to my thighs chafing, I decided to quit playing around and get some actual running gear.

What I look for in running gear

Functionality and technical elements come first and foremost. Running gear should be designed for running and everything that comes with it. It should be moisture-wicking and quick-drying for when things get sweaty. It should be stretchy and ready to move with you, yet compressive and sleek as to avoid chafing. It should be lightweight and comfortable, as to not weigh you down or annoy you mid-run.

Then, there’s the extra, thoughtful touches that make running more enjoyable. I used to run with an armband, which was great for holding my phone. But now, I have a fob for my apartment building and a solid key to my actual apartment, so I need pockets. And yes, pockets plural—I am unimpressed by just a singular pocket because where am I supposed to put my phone, keys, and any cards I may need? What’s great about the Hoka running gear, specifically, is that the bottoms all have plenty of room for my things.

Honestly—and I am so unbothered by how this might sound—I’m a sucker for cute running clothes. When I’m shopping for anything, even workout clothes and running gear, I want it make me feel confident in my appearance because that helps make me feel more confident in my running.

The 10 best pieces of Hoka running gear

Hoke, 1/2 Zip — $88.00

Available sizes: XS-XXL (select sizes/colors sold out)

This is the first piece of Hoka running gear I tried, and there was a lot to love about it. It’s super lightweight, has a chest pocket on the left side (which is great for storing keys), and has thumbholes at the wrists, which make my runs extra comfy. I’m also into the fact that Hoka produces this half-zip in sizes XS-XXL in four pretty colors. It’s also thin and lined with fleece, making it perfect for an outdoor run when the weather is on the chilly side.

For reference, I’m five feet tall, weigh 135 pounds, and am a B-cup. I would classify myself as petite, so I tried a size small, and it fits pretty well. It’s loose enough to be extremely breathable, but not so loose that I can feel it bouncing while I run. While I am curious how the smaller size would fit, I’m glad I got the small (instead of the extra small) because I’d rather wear clothing that’s a little big over a little small. If you prefer to run with tighter garments, though, I’d definitely recommend sizing down.

Colors: 4

Pros: 

  • Lightweight
  • Fleece lining
  • Pockets and thumbholes
  • Breathable

Cons: 

  • Runs large
Hoka, Hupana 5" Short — $40.00

Originally $52, on sale for $40

Available sizes: XS-XL (select sizes/colors sold out)

Because of how short these are, I thought the Hoka Hupana Short might lead to chafing in my inner thighs on my runs . Once I actually ran, though, I realized that they’re the perfect length and there was no chafing in sight. I also love that these shorts are basically pockets galore: They have a zipper pocket on the right side, an open pocket on the left, and a small pocket in the seam of the waist. I usually keep my phone in the left pocket and store my keys or cards in the pocket with a zipper.

These shorts are made of a recycled polyester-Lycra blend and are available in sizes XS-XL. I got a medium, which is a bit tight around my thighs and has a good fit around my waist—though I do wish they had a drawstring. When I’m running, I want my bottoms to be ever-so-slightly snug so that they don’t fall down as I stride, and I find myself pulling them up every so often. If I could order these all over again, I would definitely add the small to my cart.

Colors: 4

Pros:

  • Perfect length
  • Ample pockets
  • Stretchy yet compressive

Cons: 

  • No drawstring—can slide down
Hoka, Hupana Sports Bra — $38.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

I honestly don’t have anything bad to say about this sports bra—it’s comfortable, it provides amazing support for my breasts regardless of how fast I’m running, and it has a very chic, semi-circle cut-out on the back for extra breathability. That said, I noticed that the internal Hoka label peeled after a handful of runs and washes. I wouldn’t necessarily classify that as a bad thing, though, since it doesn’t affect the stellar performance of the bra.

I would fully suggest sizing up if you’re stuck between the smaller and bigger sizes. Even though I’d say I’m petite, my chest and rib area are rather wide, which is why I opted to get a medium when I tried this sports bra. In addition to a range of sizes, the Hupana Sports Bra comes in six colors (which you can match with the tights and shorts).

Colors: 4

Pros: 

  • Supportive
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Comfortable

Cons: 

  • No specific cup/band sizes available
Hoka, Performance Tight — $88.00

Ever since I started my journey as a runner, I’ve been searching for outstanding running bottoms, a feat that’s much harder than I’d imagined. Much like Goldilocks, I would find that some tights were too loose while others were too long for my 5-foot frame. While the Hoka running tights are slightly tight on my waist—because I got a small instead of medium as I did with the shorts—but I find that preferable because they don’t slide down at all.

Like the Hupana shorts, these leggings are made of 75 percent recycled polyester and 25 percent lycra, making them comfortable, light, and stretchy. They have three pockets: a small one on the left side of the waist, an open pocket on the left thigh, and a zipper pocket on the right side (in which you can see my key fob). These tights come in sizes XS-XL, really hug your figure, and are available in five different colors. I wish they had a drawstring for a more custom fit, given the price tag.

Pros: 

  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Recycled materials
  • Ample pockets
  • Compressive

Cons: 

  • No drawstring waist
Hoka, Merino Midlayer — $94.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

Coincidentally as all heck, I’m wearing the Hoka Merino Midlayer as I write this article. The sweater is made of merino wool, an ultra-soft, cashmere-like wool used in luxury apparel and some sportswear. Merino wool is also extremely cooling and is amazing at soaking up moisture. What’s more: This midlayer has reflective lines printed vertically across each elbow; has a mesh back that makes it super breathable; and it covers about half of your neck to keep you warm.

This midlayer comes in two colors: red-orange and black. I tested it in black, and it was more of a deep navy blue than a true black. Don’t get me wrong—I still love it, and the color obviously doesn’t affect its performance. I’m just saying that if you’re looking for a black midlayer that goes perfectly with your black bottoms, this top isn’t it. If, however, you’re shopping for a breathable, light, and comfortable long-sleeve that helps you power through your runs, this will do the trick. This sweater runs in sizes XS-XL, and I tried a medium. It’s the tiniest bit loose, but I’d still stick with this size over a small.

Colors: 2

Pros: 

  • Warm yet breathable
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Comfortable

Cons:

  • Almost all sold out
  • The black is more a navy blue than true black
Hoka, Pullover — $55.00

Originally $78, on sale for $55

Available sizes: XS-XL

I’m an LA girly, so I can’t say that we really have super cold winters, but the early months of this year were uncharacteristically chilly. When I would head to the gym or go on a 6 AM run (which honestly was only a handful of times), this cropped pullover was my best friend. It’s made of French terry material, making it super soft, cushiony, and warm. It also has thumbholes at the wrist and a drawcord to adjust the tightness of your hook.

One note: The product page says that this hoodie features a kangaroo front pocket, but the pullover I tested had zero pockets. I got a size small (from a range of XS-XL), which fit well as an oversized hoodie. That said, because I’m only five feet tall, there’s extra material when I put my thumbs into the holes of this hoodie. Knowing this, I’d probably get the extra small instead of the small—but I’d still get this light green option instead of the blue or pink picks.

Colors: 3

Pros: 

  • Warm and comfortable
  • Drawstring waist
  • Thumbholes
  • Slightly cropped for layering

Cons: 

  • Runs large
  • Advertised with kangaroo pockets but there was no pocket when tested
Hoka, Glide 3/4 Sleeve — $58.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

If I’m spilling the tea, the whole tea, and nothing but the tea: This three-quarter sleeve isn’t the most aesthetic garment on this list. Instead, it’s one of those functional shirts that I’ll turn to time and time again because I can wear it whether it’s hot or cold. Also, if I had an Apple Watch, its sleeves allow me to easily check it (instead of having to reach into my pocket for my phone).

On to the materials: This shirt is made of 100 percent recycled polyester, which means it’s adept at keeping sweat on the outside of your shirt and quickly drying it. At first, I didn’t believe the claims about this material, which Hoka and other running lines refer to as “sweat-wicking.” However, last week, a friend and I ran more than four miles outdoors. He was wearing a cotton shirt and I was wearing this three-quarter sleeve. While his shirt was basically soaked, mine was completely dry to the touch—on my back and, yes, even under my arms.

Colors: 4

Pros: 

  • Quick-drying and moisture-wicking
  • Lightweight
  • Sleeve length works well with watches and trackables
  • Versatile

Pros: 

  • Form-fitting—size up if you prefer a looser fit
Hoka, Performance Hat — $24.00

One size

Out of all of my hats, the Hoka Performance Hats is the lightest by a long shot. I live in LA and am very serious about going the extra mile to protect my skin from harmful UV rays, but I don’t really log my miles with a hat on. In fact, I was kind of against it because I found that hats would get heavy after a while and I’d breakout around my forehead.

However, this baby has earned a spot as one of my go-to running pieces because of how light and breathable it is. This five-panel hat is available in six fun colors and has a flexible brim that makes it a breeze to pack in any bag—big or small. From running in it, I discovered that this hat also dries with ease. To adjust, you’ll use the cord on the back of the hat, effectively making it once size fits most.

Pros: 

  • Lightweight and quick-drying
  • Perforated sides for breathability
  • Adjustable
  • Packable

Cons: 

  • Only one size
Hoka, No-Show Run Sock 3-Pack — $35.00

Available sizes: S-XL

I didn’t get to test these no-show socks for myself because they were out of stock at the time, which made me feel like they had to be good. Instead, I headed to the reviews on the product page and found a total of 156 reviews. Those reviews awarded the no-show socks 4.5 out of five stars, which is pretty dang good.

One reviewer, who gave these socks five stars, mentioned that “They have little areas of extra padding that aid in cushioning your foot and have a vented area to help with keeping your feet cool.”

According to the product page, these socks are made of nylon, polyester, Coolmax polyester (which is engineered to wick moisture), cotton, and elastane. Simply put, this means that the no-shows are form-fitting, breathable, flexible, and they stay dry. While the No-Show 3-Pack is $35, they also have a 3-pack of crew socks for $45. Both packs come with white, black, and grey colors and are available in sizes S-XL.

Pros:

  • No-show design
  • Cushioned
  • Light and breathable
  • Highly reviewed

Cons:

  • Frequently sold out
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The Symbolism and Meaning of a Ruby, July’s Energetic and Exuberant Birthstone https://www.wellandgood.com/july-birthstone/ Sat, 01 Jul 2023 12:00:57 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1075433 The July birthstone is a bright red ruby. It lies in stark contrast to June’s birthstone, the understated and elegant pearl. A ruby is thought to inspire energy, action, and passion—a far cry from a pearl, which is all about calm and intuition. Ruby’s potent energy, however, might be just what you need if you’re looking for a renewed sense of vitality to carry you through the month (or beyond).

Properties of the July birthstone: the energetic and exuberant ruby

  • Birthstone color: Red
  • Element: Fire
  • Planet: Mars
  • Chakra: Heart and root chakra
  • Origin: Varied

Rubies are made of the mineral corundum, and they are a close relative of September’s birthstone, the sapphire. Both are formed under high pressures and temperatures deep below the earth’s surface, but the ruby’s red hue, which they get from the mineral chromium, sets it apart from sapphire, which comes in all but the color red. Given their dazzling beauty, rubies are among the most sought-after gemstones, alongside sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds. Not only are they beautiful, they are also hardy, with a Mohs hardness score just a point below the diamond, which tops the charts. Rubies are found in various parts of the world, including Vietnam, Thailand, Africa, and the United States, and “the best rubies are from India and Burma [or Myanmar],” says integrative medicine and crystal expert Elizabeth Trattner, AP, DOM, the owner of wellness center The Helia House.

Birthstone meaning and symbolism of ruby

Rubies have long been associated with protection and prosperity. In ancient China and Burma, warriors wore it as a means of protection, says crystal expert and Reiki master Laura Ellis, while in Hindu culture, it is regarded as the “king of gemstones” and it was thought that those who offered rubies to the god Krishna would be born as emperors in their next life. Rubies have also been linked to passion and vitality, in part because of its supposed color resemblance to our blood and beating hearts.

“The red color signifies life force, and so [ruby] helps people tune into their own spaces of creation—be that creative projects or new ways of being in the world,” says Reiki master and crystal healer Mariah K. Lyons, founder of ASTARA. “It also activates the life force within to help you move forward.” Ellis echoes this sentiment, and calls ruby a “revitalizing stone.” When you’re feeling uninspired and lack motivation, it can help you move forward with a renewed sense of perspective or follow through on your actions. And, if you’re experiencing an energy lull, rubies can help you reignite passion and drive. They are useful for escaping a rut too, helping to release stagnant energy so you can think up new solutions to get yourself unstuck.

In astrology, ruby relates to July-born Cancers and Leos, making it particularly useful for the zodiac signs, albeit in different ways. Rubies can encourage Cancerians to lean into their “queen essence,” says Lyons, allowing the mother of the zodiac to hone their maternal instincts that are key among Cancer traits. The stone can also serve as a grounding reminder for Cancer to take care of themselves, because while they are naturally giving, compassionate, and nurturing to others, they have an inclination to give too much at times. “As for the lion, [ruby] brings a very creative and passionate energy,” says Lyon, helping channel their inner fire purposefully, allow for the full expression of their truth, and enhance their shine. In other words, ruby will help bring out the very best Leo traits. All that said, anyone can harness the energizing powers of the July birthstone regardless of their zodiac and the month they were born.

Lyons, Ellis, and Dr. Trattner also mention that ruby is connected with the root chakra, which is associated with stability and security, and the heart chakra, which, as its name implies, is linked to matters of the heart. The ruby can activate the root chakra to help one feel grounded in the energy and simultaneously remove energetic blocks. When it comes to the heart chakra, it helps wake up and inspire one’s passion, while also removing any blockages that may cause stagnation.

Does July have more than one birthstone?

Rubies might be considered as the primary birthstone for July, but traditionally, the stone onyx was associated with the month. According to Ellis, onyx is a grounding stone, helping one to stay present in their body and senses and hone their focus. She also says that it can also safeguard against negative energy and help one create or maintain healthy boundaries.

What are birthstones?

Birthstones are gemstones that represent a person’s birth month or zodiac sign. Their origins are believed to trace back to biblical times, and the first-century historian Flavius Josephus associated the 12 gemstones on Aaron’s breastplate in the Book of Exodus with the months of the year and the 12 zodiac signs. However, the custom of wearing an individual gem per month didn’t begin until around the 15th or 16th century in Germany or Poland. Birthstones are also found to have origins in Eastern Culture. The Ratna Pariksha, a fifth-century Hindu text, linked specific gems to deities, celestial bodies, and days of the week, while Vedic astrologers recommend certain gems to individuals based on their astrological birth chart.

In 1912, the American Council Association of Jewelers (which is currently known as the Jewelers of America) created a standardized list of birthstones in the United States. This list was updated by the Jewelry Industry Council of America and later by The American Gem Trade Association to include new types of birthstones for certain months of the year.

An overview of the birthstones for every month of the year

Want to pick a crystal that corresponds to your birth month? Here’s a quick overview of the birthstones for every month of the year:

  • January Birthstone: Garnet
  • February Birthstone: Amethyst
  • March Birthstone: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
  • April Birthstone: Diamond
  • May Birthstone: Emerald
  • June Birthstone: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
  • July Birthstone: Ruby
  • August Birthstone: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
  • September Birthstone: Sapphire
  • October Birthstone: Opal and Tourmaline
  • November Birthstone: Topaz and Citrine
  • December Birthstone: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon

Frequently asked questions about the July birthstone

What is July’s birthstone and flower?

July’s birthstone is the red ruby or, traditionally, onyx, and the birth flower of July is the larkspur, or delphinium, which is thought to symbolize positivity.

What are the two birthstones for July?

The red ruby is currently the “primary” July birthstone, but the traditional birthstone of the month is the black onyx.

What are the characteristics of the birthstone of July?

The red ruby is an energetic stone that is thought to inspire energy, action, and passion, while the traditional July birthstone—the onyx—is a grounding stone that can also help safeguard against negative energy.

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J.Crew’s Massive Summer Sale Has All Your Breezy Summer Wardrobe Essentials—All Up to 60% Off https://www.wellandgood.com/jcrew-summer-sale-2023/ Thu, 29 Jun 2023 22:00:54 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1084355 According to the calendar, it’s only officially been summer for about a week. I haven’t even jumped in a pool or eaten a single popsicle yet! Still, retailers like J.Crew are already offering their warm-weather goods on serious sale. We mean serious, too—up to 60 percent off serious. That’s good news for you, your closet, and your budget.

You better hurry, though. Hundreds of summer styles are currently available with majorly slashed prices, so we imagine sizes (which range from XXS to 3X) will sell out fast. Now’s the time to stock your closet with everything you’ll need to round out your summer wardrobe: classic tees, comfortable swimwear, easygoing sundresses, and at least one wide-brimmed hat to shield you from harmful rays. When it comes to elevated basics with a twist, J.Crew has that look nailed down.

Scroll on for 10 of our favorite finds from J.Crew’s summer sale, but trust us: our carts are overflowing with many more picks. Happy shopping! Not finding anything you like? Click here for J.Crew’s entire sale selection.

Our favorite picks from J.Crew's summer sale

j crew dress
Smocked Linen-Blend Bandeau Beach Dress, $70-$95

Originally $148-$158, now $70-$95

Have a social calendar full of backyard barbecues, yet nothing to wear? That’s where this breezy beach dress comes in handy. We all need a sundress (or two—or 10) that we can grab on any given summer day, especially when the temps are scorching. This dress is ultra comfortable thanks to its breathable fabric, a cotton and linen blend, as well as its stretched smocked bodice. The straps are removable, giving you the option for a strapless look, and it’s available either in a purple pattern or solid black. Best yet: it’s currently 53 perfect off.

Available sizes: XXS-3X

Colors: 2

jcrew shorts
Pleated Capeside Short in Chambray — $50.00

Originally $90 now $50

If these shorts look familiar, you may recognize them as the summer version of J.Crew’s best-selling Capeside pant. Made of lightweight chambray fabric, these shorts give you the sophistication of a dress pant with the ease of a short. Win/win. The high rise is both flattering and comfortable, while the pleat instantly adds polish. On a casual day, wear these with a white tank, fisherman sandals, and consider your ensemble complete. To dress them up, add a kitten heel, a lightweight knit sweater, and piles of jewelry.

Available sizes: 00-24

Colors: 1

jcrew beach shirt
Long Beach Shirt in Linen-Cotton Blend, $75-$102

Originally $118-$128, now $75-$102

Have you ever seen a sharper beach cover-up? We haven’t. While it’s a pool and beach must-have, there are countless other ways to wear this midi-length button-up shirt. Over a swimsuit, definitely. Worn open over jeans and a bodysuit, also yes. Come fall, wear it as a dress and layer a sweater vest over the top. Since it’s on serious sale, you’ll get your price-per-wear down to pennies in no time.

Available sizes: XXS-2X
Colors: 5

jcrew swimsuit
Plunge One-Piece, $55-$90

Originally $119, now $55-$90

Pool parties await! J.Crew currently has 96 pieces of swimwear on sale, and while they’re all worthy of strutting your stuff in, this super flattering one-piece is our top pick. The modestly covered bottom ensures no awkward wedgie picking, while the plunging neckline is both sexy and supportive. The fabric—which is made from recycled plastic bottles, yarns, and fabric scraps—even has built-in UPF 50 protection. (Just don’t forget to apply SPF too.) Now, which color are you going to choose? Will it be the Baywatch-worthy red, the hottest of hot pinks, and one of the more subtle shades?

Available sizes: 0-16
Colors: 7

jcrew pjs
End-On-End Cotton Pajama Short Set — $60.00

Originally $90, now $60

It’s time to say goodbye to the ratty T-shirt you’ve been rocking to bed since, well, you can’t even remember when. It’s also time to say goodbye to your long flannel PJs that kept you cozy and warm all winter and spring long. Upgrade to this chic—yet comfortable—pajama set while it’s on sale. This shorts set is available in four colors—fuschia, navy, white, and pale blue—all with sharp piping details, but the white feels particularly summer-appropriate. It’s made from 100 percent cotton (read: breathable!), so even on the most humid night, hopefully you won’t wake up sweaty.

Available sizes: XXS-3X

Colors: 4

jcrew puff sleeve
Puff-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt, $23-$35

A T-shirt, but make it fancy. That’s exactly what this versatile top is. The subtle puff detail on the sleeves elevates this fitting, flattering tee so you could wear it to work or, well, wherever, really. This is a no-brainer “add to cart” decision. At this price, you may want to stock up on one of every color, plus the black-and-white striped version to feel your most Parisian.

Available sizes: XXS-3X

Colors: 5

jcrew chambray top
New Seaside Short, $35-$60

Originally $60-$70, now $35-$60

This is *the* quintessential J.Crew chambray short. These lightweight chambray shorts, which you will undoubtedly reach for day after day until it’s time to pack up the pool floaties for the season. The relaxed fit with a roomy leg make them just as easy to wear to your niece’s T-ball game as to happy hour with your besties.

Available sizes: XXXS-3X

Colors: 13

jcrew smocked dress
V-Neck Smocked-Waist Dress, $100-$120

Originally $198, now $100-$120

We can picture it now: you, this dress, and a backyard wedding. The smocked waist and midi length couldn’t be more comfortable, and the eyelet hem adds a flirty touch. Deciding to add this cotton poplin dress to your cart won’t be difficult, but choosing which version may be. Will you choose the blue, white, black, or the multicolored floral option, which is a garden party in dress form? Hint, hint for brides-to-be: the white option would make a particularly pretty engagement party or rehearsal dinner dress.

Available sizes: 00-24

Colors: 4

jcrew hat
Textured Summer Straw Hat — $45.00

Originally $70, now $45

Every time you leave the house this summer, be sure to pack two things: sunscreen and this straw hat.

The more face and neck coverage, the better, so this extra wide brim passes our “will it protect our skin?” test. Since it’s made out of resilient paper straw, it’s nearly indestructible, easily flattening and folding into beach bags and suitcases. It’ll keep you feeling cool and looking cool.

Available sizes: One size

Colors: 2

jcrew poplin shirt
Relaxed-Fit Crisp Cotton Poplin Shirt, now $50-$65

Originally $98, now $50-$65

There’s never a bad time to add a crisp white button-up shirt to your closet, but J.Crew’s summer sale is a particularly good time. This one, made of 100 percent organic cotton, will be a year-round wardrobe warrior. Pair it with cut-off denim shorts and slides in the summer, then tuck it into a maxi skirt and step into booties once the temperatures take a dip. This classic-as-can-be option can even be monogrammed for a particularly preppy look, and since it’s available in sizes 00 to 24, as well as petite and tall sizing, you’ll likely find a perfect fit.

Available sizes: 00-24

Colors: 3

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The 7 Best Running Shorts With *Plenty* of Pocket Space for Your Keys, Gels, and More https://www.wellandgood.com/womens-running-shorts-with-pockets/ Wed, 28 Jun 2023 18:00:31 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1083131 When I first started running long distances, I once made the odd decision to run about 18 miles from Harlem to the border of Connecticut while holding my phone, a water bottle, and multiple snacks in my hands the entire way. I don’t remember which got tired first: my feet, or my fingers. But I only owned one pair of running shorts at that point, and their only pocket was a small slit just big enough for a credit card.

Now, no matter how comfy a pair of running shorts is, or how good they look, not having ample pocket space is a dealbreaker for me. Mostly, I need at least one pocket big and secure enough to hold my phone. But really, what I want is the most pockets possible. The more that a pair of shorts can store, the more likely I’m going to be able to use them for long runs and races.

Because while I own two running belts (the FlipBelt ($34) and a Spibelt ($27), I find both sometimes slide up my waist unless I place them *just so* and wear the right kind of fabric. It’s distracting, and I’d much rather stash everything I need to bring with me right in my shorts, and then never have to think about any of it while I’m running.

So I recently went on a hunt for the best women’s running shorts with pockets—specifically, pairs with as much pocket space as I could find. I looked up options that had at least one pocket big enough for a standard-sized cell phone, plus three or four additional pockets for keys, gels—anything else I normally bring on my runs. Then I wore them for at least one or two test runs, a neighborhood walk, plus one other kind of workout (like bootcamp, yoga, a bike ride) to get a sense of how they perform during different kinds of movement. Out of everything I researched and tested, these are the seven best I’d recommend you swiftly add to your carts.

The best women’s running shorts with pockets for stashing all your stuff

Best for training:

On, Sprinter Short — $70.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

Although On is most well-known for its signature running shoes with hollow “clouds” in the soles, I’d recently heard that the brand also makes excellent shorts, so I decided to try these out—and was not disappointed.

These shorts just feel… sleek. Longer than booty shorts but shorter than your typical bike shorts, this pair features just the essentials without any extra weight. The fabric is light and thin, so it won’t slow you down even as temps heat up. There are three mesh pockets along the back of the waist (including a larger one in the middle for a phone), plus two drop-in pockets on either leg. Gentle compression keeps everything in those pockets secure without squeezing too hard.

Pockets: 5—three mesh pockets around the back of the waist (including one for a phone), plus two drop-ins on either leg
Colors: 2
Care: Machine wash cold and hang dry

Pros:

  • Sleek style
  • Lightweight  
  • Unique length

Cons:

  • No zippered pocket

Best for race day:

Tracksmith, Lane Five Short Tights — $68.00

Available sizes: XS–L

I’ve owned three different versions of these shorts over the years, and they remain my all-time favorite for running. With each update Tracksmith’s put out, they’ve made them just slightly better, bit by bit. Currently, they sport five pockets, including a zippered pocket in the back, and four smaller ones that are just the right size for a gel or keys, making them ideal for a long run or race. What I love: No matter how far or fast I run in them, or what the weather is like, they literally never ride up, thanks to rubber grips on the legs’ hems. I’ve never found another pair that stay put this reliably.

Pockets: 5—one zippered back pocket, and four smaller open ones along the back and sides of the waist
Colors: 5
Care: Machine wash cold and hang dry

Pros:

  • Stays put without riding up
  • Tight fit means items in pockets don’t bounce around  
  • High-quality fabric feels soft yet supportive  

Cons:

  • Zippered back pocket sometimes causes slight chafing on long runs
  • Only available through a size large

Best for trail running:

Rabbit, Smashems 4" — $64.00

Originally $80, currently on sale for $64 (in orange color)

Available sizes: XS-XL

Both comfy and functional, these shorts are designed for the trails. Soft nylon fabric along the waistband and in the liner gives these a cozy feel, while also featuring super light and airy polyester-based material over the legs to help you stay cool and dry. The entire waistband doubles as pocket space, with a large zippered back pocket in the back, then open slits the rest of the way around. One cool feature that I’d never seen before: Two elastic loops with rubber grips in the back let you store hiking poles.

Because the waist on these is a little on the looser side, I’ve found if I do stash anything in the pockets I really need to tie the drawstring tight to keep my stuff from jiggling around when I run. But the benefit is that I can then loosen it afterward so the shorts transition to a more relaxed fit when I’m just sitting around doing some post-run refueling.

Pockets: 6—back zippered pocket, plus openings all along the waist for additional storage
Colors: 2 (plus more in 3-inch and 2.5-inch inseam versions)
Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

Pros: 

  • Entire waistband is pocket space  
  • Cozy but lightweight feel    
  • Additional slots for trekking poles

Cons: 

  • Slightly bulky drawstring   
  • Need to tie the drawstring extra tight to keep things in pockets from bouncing around

Best for staying cool:

Janji, 3” Multi Short — $78.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

I took these breezy shorts out for a run in 80-degree weather with 91 percent humidity, and stayed as cool as I could have asked for. The shell is made with micro-perforations that make it super airy.

Personally, the split hem on these goes up a bit too high for me to feel comfortable wearing these during other kind of workouts where I lunge or lay on the floor, but the breathability makes them pretty ideal for hot summer running. The waist features a series of five virtually hidden pockets—at first, I didn’t even see they were there until I started poking around. In the back is a slot big enough to fit your phone, and the front right pocket has a key loop.

Pockets: 5—a large one in the back for a phone, plus four open slits along the waist
Colors: 4
Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

Pros:

  • Super lightweight and breathable  
  • Hidden pockets don’t add extra bulk  
  • Perforated for airflow

Cons:

  • Fabric bunches up a bit between the thighs during faster running

Best lined shorts:

Lululemon, Nulux Road to Trail High-Rise Short 4" — $98.00

Available sizes: 0-14

These layered shorts have hidden drop-in pockets in the inner liner on both legs, as well as a zippered pocket in the back for your cell phone. But the real standout feature is an extra loop of fabric right behind that zippered pocket that leaves a loose but secure opening for easy access. When I’m putzing around home, it’s an ideal spot to stash my phone without having to zip or unzip anything. I wore these to a bootcamp class where I was given a branded sweat towel (yay #freefitnessswag), and I was able to easily lace it through the loop for my run home afterwards. It’s a perfect spot to stash a shirt you take off mid-workout, or a pair of hiking poles.

Pockets: 4—a zippered back pocket, two drop-ins in the liner, one large loop in the back of the waistband
Colors: 3
Care: Machine wash cold and tumble dry

Pros:

  • Flexible storage options, even for bigger items    
  • High waist with a supportive waistband that stays put  
  • Ample coverage without getting too hot

Cons:

  • Liner rolls up a bit when opening up your range of motion during lunges or sprints  
  • Waistband is on the tighter side. It loosens with wear, but you might want to size up  
  • Features a large logo on one leg

Best budget:

FlipBelt Compression Shorts — $46.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

The entire waist of these compression shorts (available in three-inch or five-inch inseam) is one massive pocket. There are two slits at the front to stick things inside, with a key lock just inside the opening on the right. In the back, there’s a zippered pocket to keep your phone or wallet secure. And if that’s not enough space, the sides feature 7-inch deep pockets—big enough to store a water bottle on either leg if you wanted. (FlipBelt sells a version that’s contoured to the shape of your hips.)

Slipping these shorts on, I understood why reviewers recommend sizing up: The compressive fabric digs in at my waist and the hems of the legs. But I’m not wearing these to lounge around in. I stocked these pockets full for a test run, and although there was a little resettling of items going on at first, within a mile, everything found its place and stayed there for the rest of my run.

Pockets: 5—zippered back pocket, two drop-ins on the legs, and two slit openings for waistband pocket space
Colors: 1
Care: Machine wash cold and tumble dry

Pros:

  • Entire waistband is pocket space, plus additional pockets on thighs  
  • Relatively inexpensive  

Cons:

  • Thick fabric is a bit hot for summer runs  
  • Compression can make for a tight fit (consider sizing up)

Best for low-impact activities:

Fair Harbor, Corliss Short — $58.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

To be completely honest, I actually don’t recommend running in these shorts. Although you can fit a phone in either of the two side drop-in pockets in the inner liner, it bounces around as soon as you start jogging. But I included this pair on this list because I know many of us like to wear “running shorts” to hike, or walk, or paddleboard, or kayak. As long as you’re not doing anything that requires you to bound up and down, these are both super convenient and comfortable.

In addition to the drop-in pockets, the outer shell includes two zippered pockets on either side to keep valuables safe; the left even has a key loop. Meanwhile, the stretchy fabric makes these shorts comfortable enough to wear all day long, whether you’re working out or working from the couch. One more thing I appreciate: Even though these are roomy, the two-tone design is pretty flattering.

Pockets: 4—two slide-in pockets on the inner bike short liner, and two zippered hip pockets on the outer shell
Colors: 11
Care: Machine wash cold and tumble dry

Pros:

  • Multiple pockets for larger items  
  • Provides ample coverage  
  • Flattering design  
  • Quick-drying shell

Cons:

  • Pockets aren’t tight enough to keep items from bouncing while running or jumping
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5 Ways To Take Your Self-Care Routine On-the-Go for All Your Summer Travels—Sustainably https://www.wellandgood.com/travel-sustainably-cotton/ Wed, 28 Jun 2023 11:30:23 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1072093 You wait all year for summer to arrive, but when it does, you feel a little… thrown off. Sure, you love beachside bungalows and any excuse to sip on something fresh-squeezed, but the comings and goings of the season often send your tried-and-true routines to the sidelines.

There’s no reason you should have to toss out the wellness practices you’ve established throughout the year once the temps start to rise, and there’s no need to dread the season’s frenzied pace and packed calendars. You can maintain your daily self-care routines while you enjoy fun summer travel—and (bonus) you can accomplish both sustainably.

Sustainability expert and content creator Jhánneu Roberts believes that self care is an essential part of a sustainable lifestyle. “It’s all connected,” she says. “When we take care of ourselves, we’re better equipped to take care of the planet and inspire others to do the same.” To maintain that commitment to herself and to the environment while she’s on the go, she relies on a mindfulness practice and a simplified packing list.

A few things that always make the list? A small collection of multipurpose cotton goods. Whether it’s a lightweight Turkish towel for morning meditation or a canvas makeup pouch for her summer beauty routine, Roberts loves naturally grown cotton because it’s biodegradable, recyclable, and durable—as in, it can keep up with all her adventuring.

Check out the simple ways she recommends taking your self-care routine on the road, stock up on a few cotton packing essentials, and get ready to travel sustainably, all summer long.

1. Food

Hydrating and feeding her body with plenty of fluids and nourishing foods is key to Roberts’ daily self-care practice. Taking that routine on the go can be challenging, she says, but it’s made easier with reusable items like a large water bottle, food-storage containers, a canvas tote, and cotton napkins.

When she finds herself in a new place, she makes an effort to check out any local farmer’s market she can find. It’s an easy way to travel sustainably and, for Roberts, the experience of connecting with locals and stocking up on gorgeous fruits and veggies is a total self-care win. “Farmers’ markets offer locally grown produce, often with fewer packaging materials and a smaller carbon footprint compared to supermarket goods,” she says. “Supporting local farmers not only promotes sustainable agriculture but also connects you to the community.”

Speaking of family farms, while you might not find a booth filled with cotton plants at the market, choosing naturally farmed cotton over other kinds of fabric is another way to support farmers. So fill your tote with bursting berries, meet a new friend or two, and get to know the place you’re visiting, all in one fell swoop. That’s a healthy serving of self care.

2. Sun

With UV indexes at an all-time high, Roberts considers sunscreen a key step in her summer self-care routine. Take her lead and keep a stash in your bag—but be sure it’s the high-quality stuff. “Look for [reef-safe] and mineral-based sunscreens that are free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate,” she says. “These formulations are better for your skin and the ocean ecosystems you may encounter during your travels.”

Add an additional layer of sun protection with comfy clothes you can wear and re-wear. A bright, easy-to-pack cotton crusher hat will keep your face shaded all day, and a dreamy, crinkly, cotton caftan will keep you cool whether you’re at the beach, enjoying dinner outside, or snuggling up for a summer sleep.

3. Beauty

If a fun skin-care and makeup routine is your definition of self care, well, same. Once you’ve lathered up with planet-friendly sunscreen, swipe on a bit of waterproof mascara and a bright pop of SPF lipstick and get to exploring.

Transport your makeup must-haves in a cotton cosmetic case—extra credit if it doubles as a clutch you can carry for an evening on the town—and be sure to travel with reusable, easy-to-wash makeup towels. “[They’re] not only cost-effective, but they also reduce the amount of waste we generate,” Roberts says. “By making the switch to reusable options, we’re helping to cut down on single-use items and making a positive impact on the planet.”

4. Movement

Roberts tries to minimize car time when she’s traveling, in an effort to reduce her carbon footprint and find meditation in movement. “Whenever possible, choose walking or cycling for shorter distances [and] public transportation for longer trips,” she says. “Carpooling with friends or colleagues is another great option for reducing emissions and sharing the journey.”

With walks and bike rides on the itinerary, comfortable clothes are critical. Consider investing in a pair of neutral and soft wide-leg cotton pants you can dress up or down, and breathable cotton canvas slip-ons that easily transition from day to night.

5. Meditation

Amidst your adventuring, challenge yourself to carve out a daily moment for stillness—because tuning into your mind and body is especially important when you break from your normal routine. That mindfulness is at the core of both self care and sustainable living, Roberts says.

To keep up the habit while you’re on the go, tuck a handmade cotton notebook and a breezy Turkish towel in your suitcase—for gratitude journaling, a morning sit, a farmers’ market list, an afternoon nap, or all of the above. Happy adventuring.

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Oprah’s Favorite Leggings Are on Super Sale Right Now—Snag a Pair Before They Sell Out https://www.wellandgood.com/girlfriend-collective-anniversary-sale/ Sat, 24 Jun 2023 17:00:36 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1078405 When Girlfriend Collective entered the athleisurewear mix six years ago, the brand immediately took off. Known for its eco-friendly fabrics and inclusive sizing, Girlfriend Collective’s ethos has always put sustainability, size inclusivity, and comfort first—which is what makes the brand so special. Over the years, Girlfriend has blessed us with functional and timeless staples like workout dresses, supportive sports bras, and buttery-soft leggings. The brand is so beloved, even Oprah had to add its top-selling compression leggings to her Favorite Things list in 2022.

To celebrate six years in the biz, the brand is hosting an anniversary sale—and let me tell you, you’re not going to want to miss it. Now through July 4, shoppers can take advantage of the 25 percent off site-wide discount as well as 50 percent off on select goodies during Girlfriend Collective’s Anniversary Sale.

Whether you’re hitting the trails, or looking for something comfortable to wear while you rewatch all of Succession on the couch (just us?), don’t miss your chance to save big on best-selling athleisurewear and Oprah’s favorite leggings.

The best of Girlfriend Collective's anniversary sale

girlfriend collective earth tommy dress
Girlfriend Collective, Earth Tommy Dress — $66.00

Originally $88, now $66

The workout dress is the quintessential staple of summer, and this Earth Tommy dress will help you navigate the warmer temps in comfort and style. This dress has a bunch of built-in elements like a a unitard and bra for extra support. A garment wouldn’t receive the Girlfriend stamp of approval if it didn’t pass the environment vibe check, but this one is made of 79 percent recycled water bottles. Plus, it has pockets. Impressive, right?

Sizes available: XXS-XL

Colors: 6

girlfriend collective dewdrop naomi workout dress
Naomi Workout Dress — $44.00

Originally $88, now $44

Another workout dress, but make it even more supportive. The compressive high neckline on the Naomi Dress offers support during walks and coffee runs. The adjustable back straps make for additional reinforcements. Made of recycled water bottles and a spandex blend, the Naomi is stretchy, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Score it now for 50 percent off.

Sizes available: XXS-6X

Colors: 4

girlfriend collective compressive pocket legging
Compressive Pocket Legging — $66.00

Originally $88, now $66

Dubbed as Oprah’s favorite leggings, these Pocket Leggings have earned the hype. Buttery-soft, stretchy, and never sheer—these compressive leggings are designed for high-impact workouts (our editorial commerce director loves to wear them to her Orange Theory Fitness classes). Not only that, but the leggings have built-in pockets to store all of your things. Oprah and BFF Gayle King swear by them, and if you don’t already own a pair, now’s the chance to do so, because they’re 25 percent off.

Sizes available: XXS-6X

Colors: 7

girlfriend collective tommy cropped bra
Tommy Cropped Bra — $32.00

Originally $42, now $32

Pair your compressive leggings with the Tommy Cropped Bra. No matter what you’re doing, these keep the girlies hugged and supportive, especially during medium-impact workouts (think: boxing, speed-walking, and more). The smooth finish ensures that the bra won’t dig into your skin. Plus, you can never go wrong with a low-back design; it looks good on everyone.

Sizes available: XXS-6X

Colors: 8

girlfriend collective ivory weekend wrap skort
Weekend Wrap Skort — $47.00

Originally $62, now $47

Why double down on a skirt or shorts when you can have both? Enter, Girlfriend Collective’s Weekend Wrap Skort. Featuring built-in shorts and a darn soft fabric, this skort is designed to move and groove with you. It is also made of UPF 50 to protect your skin from the sun’s rays and has a tie detail for adjustability. What else more could you want in a skort?

Sizes available: XXS-6X

Colors: 9

girlfriend collective moss high rise run short
High-Rise Run Short — $36.00

Originally $48, now $36

Calling all runners! With temperatures rising, you’re going to want a pair of breezy running shorts for the ride, and this high-rise pair is one for your running arsenal. Who knew that recycled water bottles and spandex would make for a stretchy and breathable fabric, and this one allows you to break a sweat sans a sweaty bum. Put these on, and you’ll be in it for the long run.

Sizes available: XXS-6X

Colors: 7

girlfriend collective fox recycled cotton high neck tank
Recycled Cotton High Neck Tank — $27.00

Originally $36, now $27

For casual days, this Recycled Cotton High Neck Tank has got you covered. This tank has a boxy cut and roomy arm holes for ultimate comfort on blistering hot temps, and it’s constructed from a recycled cotton blend to soak up sweat. Sweaty pits, be gone!

Sizes available: XXS-6X

Colors: 3

girlfriend collective midnight bianca one shoulder bra
Bianca One Shoulder Bra — $32.00

Originally $42, now $32

Double-lined and made of sweat-wicking fabric, the Bianca is the one-shoulder bra you need to serve up looks and conquer walks or low-impact workouts. It’s made of recycled plastic and spandex, making it nice and stretchy. Pair it with Girlfriend’s compressive leggings or a cute skort.

Sizes available: XXS-6X

Colors: 8

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PSA: Jennifer Garner’s Go-To Swimsuit Brand Is Having a Rare Site-Wide Sale https://www.wellandgood.com/summersalt-warehouse-sale-2023/ Fri, 23 Jun 2023 18:00:49 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1080025 Summer is officially here, and to kick things off, Summersalt is hosting its second-ever warehouse sale, with 30 percent off off all products, site-wide, from June 22 through July 6 with code SALE30 at checkout. Loved by celebrities, influencers (and W+G editors!) alike (including Jennifer Garner, who has been photographed in The Ruffled Oasis in the adorable teal polka dot style), Summersalt is known for its incredible line of one-piece swimsuits, which come in regular and long torso fits ranging from size 2 through 22, making them one of the more inclusive swimsuit brands out there.

In addition to the brand’s famed one-piece swimsuits, Summersalt also has an amazing collection of bikinis, tankinis, and cover-ups, and even has family swimsuits so the entire family can match (in a chic way!) on your upcoming summer vacation. And, if you’re looking for some super cute summer styles to rock on your trip, the brand has some fun summer dresses, shorts, tops, loungewear, and more. 

Summersalt sales don’t happen often, and the warehouse sale is a very rare occasion when you can actually score a major discount, bringing many of their swimsuit styles down to under $100. So, if you have your eye on a new suit, now is definitely the time to stock up. 

Here are our top swimwear picks from the Summersalt warehouse sale.

The best Summersalt swimsuits on sale

The Ruffled Oasis — $67.00

Originally $95, now $67

The Ruffled Oasis one-piece swimsuit from Summersalt is one of our favorite swim pieces from the brand—and it just so happens to be loved by Jennifer Garner, too. This swimsuit is constructed from a comfortable recycled polyamide and elastane material with lots of excellent compression for a secure and comfortable fit. Additionally, it features a built-in shelf bra with built-in soft cups, offering extra support up top, too.

Sizes available: Women’s 2-22 

Colors and prints: On the dot in seaweed, Bali breeze, sea urchin black, strawberry and spritz, bay and Seaspray, on the dot, on the dot in coral

The Long Torso Ruffle Backflip — $88.00

Originally $125, now $88

If you have a long torso, you know how frustrating it can be to find a one-piece swimsuit that actually fits without it feeling like it’s pulling you down. Summersalt’s collection of long torso one-pieces take the fit guesswork out of swimwear shopping, providing a comfortable fit that fits how you actually want it to. We love The Long Torso Ruffle Backflip because it boasts a timeless style that is sure to look adorable for summers to come, plus it’s constructed with plenty of compression for more support, and it features built-in soft cups for extra coverage, too. 

Sizes available: Women’s 2-22 

Colors and Prints: Garden party in rust, country club floral, pink nectarine orchard, sea urchin black, hibiscus and tangerine, seaweed and seagrass, nectarine orchard  

The Bow-Shoulder Ruched Sidestroke — $81.00

Originally $115, now $81

The Bow-Shoulder Ruched Sidestroke is one of the swimsuits we’re eyeing at the Summersalt warehouse sale for its timeless design and fashion-forward style. We absolutely love this one-shoulder look with the oversized bow strap—it feels fun, fresh, and stylish while feeling like a classic. In addition to its silhouette, this one-piece swimsuit style comes in a bunch of fun colors and patterns, including some whimsical and cottagecore-worthy florals and color blocked prints. 

Sizes available: 2-22 

Colors and Prints: Olive and spritz, beach botanical in deep sea, country club floral, watercolor petal in olive and spritz, sea urchin black and white sand, raspberry and carnation, terrace floral, nectarine orchard, nouveau toile in lapis and white sand, white sand, strawberry fields in deep sea

The Perfect Wrap One-Piece — $67.00

Originally $95, now $67

The Perfect Wrap One-Piece swimsuit puts a modern twist on a timeless silhouette with its gorgeous wrap detail, V-neckline, and cheeky coverage. The one-piece swimsuit is constructed from a blend of recycled polyamide and elastane and features the brand’s signature compression fabric which provides lots of support and a comfortable fit. Available in solid colors, color block, and lots of fun patterns, the one-piece Summersalt swimsuit will surely become a staple in your summer wardrobe. 

Sizes available: 2-22 

Colors and Prints: Bay and Seaspray, preppy petals in hydrangea and pink, pink nectarine orchard and aqua Bella palms, leopard, seagrass and seaweed, sky and blue mountain, sea urchin black, sea urchin black and white sand, olive, hibiscus and grapefruit, terrace floral, modern zebra in chocolate and sea urchin black, deep sea navy, nectarine orchard and Bella palms

The Cinched Square Neck Tankini Top — $46.00

Originally $65, now $46

If one-piece swimsuits aren’t for you but you still want some coverage, Summersalt has some of the best tankini options. We love The Cinched Square Neck Tankini Top, which features thick adjustable straps and a cinched side with fun drawstring detail. The top also boasts breast support with a built-in shelf bra with soft cups for added coverage, and features a compressive fabric derived from recycled nylon for a comfortable fit. 

Sizes available: 2-22

Colors and Prints: Bay, spritz, sea urchin

The Ruched High Leg High Rise Bottom — $31.50

Originally $45, now $31.50

Pair The Cinched Square Neck Tankini Top with The Ruched High Leg High Rise Bottom for an adorable and completed swim look. We love these swimsuit bottoms because they come in both full coverage and cheeky (depending on your color choice), have a comfortable high waist silhouette, and are designed with the same compression fabric as the top which adds a nice and secure touch to the overall fit. 

Sizes available: 2-22 

Colors and Prints: Sea urchin black, hydrangea, seaglass, amber, garden party in rust, terrace floral, and garden floral in white sand and pacific, bay, spritz 

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Found: Breathable Summer Dresses You Can Snag on Amazon—All Under $50 https://www.wellandgood.com/affordable-dresses-amazon/ Thu, 22 Jun 2023 22:00:39 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1077379 We’re celebrating summer solstice by re-upping our wardrobe with summer dresses—the one-and-done wardrobe staple we can throw on in seconds and feel effortlessly put together. Luckily, you don’t have to break your budget to find yourself some worthy pieces. As a fashion girlie whose job is to find the best deals on the internet, let me tell you: Amazon has a massive selection of high-quality, gorgeous summer dresses that’ll keep you cool all summer long.

You can find everything from casual ruched dresses to floral maxi dresses, which are perfect for picnics, outings with friends, rooftop bar hangs, and so much more. Some are functional, like this ruffled maxi dress with pockets. Yes, you heard right. Pockets!! Lucky for our wardrobes and wallets, everything is under $50.

We scoured Amazon’s selection and found the cutest and affordable summer dresses. Now all you need is a pair of comfy sandals or sneakers (as it so happens, we’ve also got you covered there), some SPF, and you’re good to go for the season.

zesica summer lace sleeveless dress
Zesica, Summer Lace Strap Sleeveless Square Neck — $48.00

Sizes available: XS-XXL

This Hill House dupe will only set you back $48, and it’s nearly identical to its designer counterpart. The dress has a flow-y drape fit to allow for air flow and mobility, and ruffled straps for a pretty flair. The best part of the dress? It has pockets (yes, pockets). So ditch the purse and throw on your favorite pair of sandals or mules. You’ll be good to go.

Colors: 17

leomes summer floral flowy sundress
Loemes, Cute Floral Flowy Knee Length — $34.00

Sizes available: S-XL

Looking for a dress for a daytime activity? We love this knee-length nap dress (another Hill House dupe!) for so many reasons. The dress is breathable, lightweight, and incredibly cute, so it’s no wonder why it boasts more than 250 five-star ratings. What’s more, it comes in a whopping 22 colors, from sunflower yellow to sage green.

Colors: 22

btfbm sleeveless bodycon ruched dress
Btfbm, Women Sleeveless Bodycon Ruched Short Dress — $17.00

Sizes available: S-XL

Yes, besties—bodycon dresses are BACK in a big way, and we’re embracing this curve-loving style. Made of polyester and a forgiving, comfortable spandex, the soft fabric moves with you, while the ruching gives you some texture. Since the silhouette and colors are timeless (there are 27 color options), you can spruce up this little number with your favorite pair of heels and sandals or down with some comfy kicks.

Colors: 27

tshirt dress
Anrabess, Women's Summer Casual Short Sleeve Crewneck Swing Dress

Sizes available: S-XXL

A pull-on T-shirt dress is a must for summer. It’s versatile, lightweight, and layers nicely with a swimsuit, if you plan on taking it to the beach or pool. This T-shirt dress has a tiered skirt, which we personally prefer over a more simple A-line—it gives it more personality that way. The soft, stretchy fabric makes this ideal for all-day wear, whether you’re roadtripping across the country or working from home on the couch.

Colors: 25

prettygarden floral summer dress
Pretty Garden, Floral Summer Dress — $45.00

Sizes available: S-XXL

Summer call for all things floral (groundbreaking, we know), and we’ve been dreaming of dresses like this one. Garden party or rooftop bar, Pretty Garden’s Floral Summer Dress will rise to any occasion. The one-shoulder design and ruffled hem adds a whimsical (yet elevated) flare. Plus, you get to choose from 26 colors. Let’s just say it: the outfit opportunities are endless.

Colors: 26

Alvaq, Women's Summer Sleeveless Sundress — $34.00

Sizes available: S-XL

Whether you’re heading to lunch or a baby shower, Alvaq’s Summer Dress is the perfect sundress option. The smocked detailing contours the waist, while the tiered hem gives your more oomph and flow whenever you’re strutting your stuff. Soft, breezy, and adorable—you’ll be gravitating towards this frock all summer long.

Colors: 14

Pink Queen, Summer Cutout Midi Dress — $38.00

Sizes available: XS-XL

Casual doesn’t always mean boring, and this dress from Pink Queen is the epitome of fun. It’s available in a whopping 35 colors, from pink and orange to lavender, and each dress has a duo color way because two colors are twice as fun. Constructed out of a viscose and spandex blend, this dress is ultra stretchy, so you don’t have to worry about being uncomfortable during the day. Cut-outs are all the rage this year, giving our wardrobe a more interesting dimension.

Colors: 35

shallmu summer floral midi dress
Shallmu, Floral Midi Dress — $35.00

Sizes available: S-XXL

If you want something more bold, color-wise, Shallmu’s Midi Dress has a daisy-like print that reads “summer.” This dress boasts a tie-front, so that you can adjust it to your unique body shape. We also love the elongated sleeves, which provide coverage from the sun during the warmer months. Throw on a sun hat and a cute pair of sandals, and you’ll be ready to hit the beach.

Colors: 7

y2k dress
Argeousgor, Y2K One Shoulder Midi Dress — $19.00

Sizes available: S-XL

We found this dress through Christina Zilber, founder of Jouer Cosmetics, who posted an OOTD video on Instagram. Seeing this designer dupe modeled by Zilber, the fit is sexy and fun—perfect to dress up or down (great for weddings, but also we’re imagining throwing on a pair of white sneakers and going to brunch in it). With details like the side cut-out, single shoulder strap, asymmetrical hem, and the all-over pleated texture, this dress will make you stand out wherever you are. Best of all?  It’s under $20!

Colors: 10

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Build Your Own Sustainable Capsule Wardrobe With These 8 Breezy Summer Staples https://www.wellandgood.com/capsule-wardrobe-cotton/ Wed, 21 Jun 2023 10:30:56 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1069249 The temperatures are rising. The birds are chirping. The sunglasses are on. You know what that means: It’s *finally* summer.

And because you want to maximize every minute of fun-in-the-sun time, you definitely don’t want to be wasting time digging through your closet to pick out an outfit. That’s when having a summer capsule wardrobe is the time-saving hack that will make getting ready so much easier—and is sustainable to boot. By establishing a rotation of go-to pieces, you’ll eliminate decision fatigue and get more wear out of all your favorite looks (fast fashion, who?).

There are just a few tips to keep in mind before getting started: First, if sustainability is the goal, don’t rush out and buy all new pieces. Mindful closet advocate Sally Garcia recommends shopping your own closet first to unearth any hidden gems and identify what your needs are. Then, you can fill in with updated pieces (either bought new or thrifted) to round out your capsule wardrobe.

Just remember to keep versatility in mind, and only add pieces that coordinate with the rest of your closet, Garcia says. Doing so will allow you to mix and match with ease, and will prevent you from having to buy or thrift as many pieces in the future. Another hack for getting the most bang for your buck? Checking the fabric label for long-lasting materials such as cotton.

“Cotton is my favorite fabric,” Garcia says. “It breathes well, it wears in beautifully, and while you should mend and wear your clothes as much as possible, cotton is one of the easiest fabrics to [biodegrade]. I also love that cotton is easy to dye, giving that much more life to your articles of clothing.”

You just need eight key pieces to create looks for days. Keep reading to snag the staples you’re missing from Garcia’s list of suggestions (after you shop your own closet, of course).

The Malika Gauze Dress — $98.00

The first item that’s a must-have in Garcia’s summer capsule wardrobe? “Without a doubt a breezy cotton dress,” she says. Not only will a dress with a simple silhouette (like this stunning sage one) help you beat the heat this summer, but you can easily dress it up or down—it’ll still look effortlessly chic whether you pair it with sneakers or heels.

Tiered Lace-Up Mini Dress — $168.00

If your fave summer outfit “hack” is to go with something you can slip on ASAP so you can enjoy the weather quicker, you know how important having a fun mini-dress can be—especially for the days when a maxi dress is a tad too warm. Try to rely on something in a basic color (like this adorable white one), and add in your personality with the detailing (like the lace-up front). Then just throw it on and go catch some sun.

The Easy Short — $58.00

Shorts are a summer must, especially for Garcia living in the Los Angeles heat. “I love a good pair of non-denim shorts,” Garcia says. “If styled right, they can totally work in a more relaxed work setting.” The possibilities of where to wear these breathable—thanks to their lightweight cotton twill fabric—shorts are endless. Try pairing them with sandals and a blazer for a dinner out, or throw them on with a t-shirt for your hot girl walk.

Stripe Cotton Jacquard Blazer — $89.00

If you’re looking for a not-so-sweaty layering piece, Garcia recommends a light cotton coat, like this blazer that will make any summer outfit seem more polished. Plus, its neutral coloring means you can pretty much throw it on top of anything without thinking twice *and* you’ll definitely still get compliments on it, thanks to the cool tonal stripes.

Speakeasy Jumpsuit — $148.00

A jumpsuit is another easy-to-throw-on base layer that provides some versatile edginess to your capsule wardrobe.  Whether you’re brunching or going to a brewery, it will become an effortless essential. “It’s a whole outfit in one article of clothing,” Garcia says. “What could be more perfect than that.”

Cotton-Linen Scarf — $75.00

While a scarf might not be the first thing you would associate with summer, Garcia says it’s worth investing in a nice lightweight one since it can be one of the most multi-use pieces of clothing in your closet. Wear it as a shawl to dinner, as a headscarf to the vintage market, or as a top for a night out—it’ll look good in all those scenarios and more.

The Signature Poplin Oversized Shirt — $85.00

Another one of Garcia’s non-negotiables when it comes to a capsule closet is a colorful button-up, like this pretty purple one that gives off “I’m ready to chill out” vibes. The oversized fit will keep you feeling classically stylish, no matter where you are. Garcia recommends wearing it not only as a shirt but also as a beach cover-up or a shacket.

501® High Rise Women’s Shorts — $70.00

Everyone needs a great pair of denim shorts for ultimate summer vibes. And if you don’t already have some, this flattering, high-waisted pair will go with just about any of your favorite breezy summer tops and will last you for years thanks to their 100 percent cotton fabric.

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The Cotton Maxi Skirt Is Making a Comeback—Here Are 6 Ways To Style the It Look of Summer https://www.wellandgood.com/maxi-skirts-cotton/ Tue, 20 Jun 2023 19:30:34 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1069691 You know that feeling when you’re rushing to work on a sunny, summery day and your light-wash jeans are sticking in *all* the wrong places? Yeah, we’re trying to erase that catastrophe from recent memory, too. In fact, we’re hitting pause on that pile of pants in the closet and making this season all about skirts.

These days, with ’90s nostalgia hotter than ever, the micro-mini skirt is gaining traction. But take it from the runway, TikTok, and the city streets: The real it look of the summer is an ankle-length or floor-skimming hem. And for super easy, beyond breezy comfort on even the toastiest days, cotton maxi skirts are outrunning all the rest.

The case for cotton is a simple one: The natural fiber is breathable, absorbent, and hypoallergenic, meaning it’s less likely than its synthetic friends to cause irritation, itch, or clinginess. Plus, it easily releases odor substances and stains with a single wash. In other words, it’s the ideal fabric for sweaty season.

And the reasons to reach for cotton stretch even beyond its comfort level. Slow-fashion pro Sally Garcia opts for the plant-based fabric whenever she can because of its environmental benefits. Cotton is naturally grown and nurtured by rainfall, which makes it biodegradable, recyclable, and a non-contributor to plastic pollution. The fiber itself is durable and strong, so the lifecycle of every piece is long enough to make you say farewell to fast fashion.

“When we choose to dress more sustainably, we are clearly making a conscious decision to support the planet and people,” Garcia says. For her, breezy staples like cotton maxi skirts are a simple way to stay planet-friendly and plenty cool throughout the summer. Get inspired with a few timeless styles below—pants not included.

1. Pair it with a cropped top

Much like cotton’s staying power, the crop top is going nowhere fast—and summer is the quintessential season for pairing mini shirts with maxi skirts. A breathable, gauzy skirt in a solid shade gives you all kinds of options for a timeless summery ‘fit—from a belly-baring cotton tank to a tied-at-the-torso button-down.

2. Go bold with mixed patterns

Sometimes, more is more. Complement a fun floral with a bold print—like bright stripes or a vintage graphic tee—for a look that screams summer sunshine. Then complete your comfy, no-cling ensemble with a white sneaker or a flat leather sandal, and you’ll be well-equipped for an out-and-about day.

3. Get your denim fix (without wearing jeans)

Lover of all things denim, take heart: You can still rock jeans in the warmest weather, without forcing your legs into pants. An ankle-length denim skirt will keep your jeans-and-tee aesthetic (or Canadian-tuxedo vibes, if that’s your signature) alive all summer long—and a retro fit that boasts a raw hem, a slit, and 20-percent recycled cotton gives this classic piece just the right amount of spice.

4. Opt for a matching set

No, sets aren’t going anywhere. Apply the trend to your cotton-maxi-skirt game with a festive, ruched top and a high-waisted, tiered bottom in understated neutrals or a bold seasonal print. Consider it a dress with a little extra ventilation.

5. Mix comfy, cozy textures

For a boho vibe that works with a bikini top (when the heat index is high) or a breathable cardigan (when the sun goes down), say crochet. It’s like a lightweight throw blanket you’ll never want to take off.

6. Rock a festive silhouette

A full, floor-skimming skirt is the always-appropriate staple you can rely on, no matter what your summer schedule brings. Quick stop at the farmer’s market? Lunch meeting? Impromptu invite to a swanky outdoor soiree? A celebratory silhouette—made with long-lasting cotton poplin that won’t lose its shape—and a seasonal pattern make this gorgeous cotton maxi the ideal wear-anywhere investment piece.

Throw it on with a pastel bodysuit in the morning, and swap out for a lace top and espadrilles at golden hour. You’ll move through the day cool, comfortable, and classic—and you’ll be the envy of all the pants-clad people you greet along the way.

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Need a Little Help Navigating Thrift-Store Racks? A Slow-Fashion Pro Says Checking the Fabric Label Is the Best Place To Start https://www.wellandgood.com/thrifting-tips-cotton/ Tue, 20 Jun 2023 16:30:11 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1068561 Real talk: You want to be a totally chic, vintage-vibing thrift shopper, but the thought of sifting through countless racks of one-of-a-kind finds—plus keeping up with the other shoppers who somehow seem to have it down—is all kinds of overwhelming. Sticking to fast fashion and overnight shipping is very tempting.

Don’t throw in the towel. For one thing, thrifting is the ticket to all the unduplicated, uniquely you ‘fits of your dreams—and the most satisfying answer to the inevitable “OMG, where did you get that?” Beyond just an enviable aesthetic, though, secondhand shopping is the most planet-friendly way to grow your wardrobe (even more than buying from sustainable brands), because you’re avoiding clothing production and keeping old threads out of landfills.

To tackle the racks with low stress and high reward, crafting a plan is key. The best place to start when it comes to navigating any thrift store? As you peruse, take slow-fashion pro Sally Garcia’s advice and check every fabric label. Then, filter by high-quality, natural materials like cotton, which is durable, versatile, and naturally grown (aka everything you want in a vintage find).

Ready to hit the secondhand circuit? Keep reading for more expert intel on why the fabric label is a thrifting essential, tips on how to navigate any shop without getting overwhelmed, and a few swoon-worthy, pre-loved gems you can snag online.

Why checking the fabric label is key

The caliber of your clothing is important—both for the durability of your wardrobe and for the stewardship of the planet—but vintage items can sometimes leave you guessing on quality. That’s why, according to Garcia, familiarizing yourself with fabrics is a solid first step in upping your thrifting game. Start by checking the label, opting for natural fibers (like cotton) over synthetics and blends, and giving every piece a poke and prod. “Just by feeling the item, I can tell if it’s something I’m going to reach for often or not,” she says.

The fabric label also acts as a window into the history of every secondhand steal, Garcia says, connecting you to its origin and what it took to land on the rack. “It’s so easy to walk into a store and buy whatever you want without thinking about who made the item…and how that article of clothing is affecting the planet.”

When you set your sights on secondhand pieces made with high-quality fibers, you’re supporting sustainable and ethical practices, she says—and you’re honing your thrifting skills while you’re at it.

Making the case for cotton

Sticking to vintage items made with natural fibers is a straightforward way to zero in on the keepers—but exactly why is cotton so key? Beyond feeling soft like a hug from an old friend every time you slip on a workout tee or a breezy dress, cotton is breathable, versatile, and timeless—plus hypoallergenic, easy to clean, and seriously durable (so yes, you’ll see a lot of it among the vintage racks).

Cotton is Garcia’s favorite fabric, and it has some serious staying power in her closet. She loves the way it wears over time and, while she’s not quick to toss any of her favorite cotton comfies, she appreciates that the fabric biodegrades more easily than many others and, because it’s plant-based and nurtured by rainfall, it doesn’t contribute to widespread microplastic pollution. So that retro cotton jumpsuit you stumbled upon was a sustainable choice before it even got the secondhand seal of approval. It’s a win-win.

More pro tips for navigating the racks

With label-checking as your tried-and-true first step, commit a few more of Garcia’s vintage tips to memory. To ensure you’re sticking to quality items—and avoiding a total stress fest—stick to a shopping list. “You might not find everything in one trip,” Garcia says, “but this will keep you from buying things you don’t need.”

Most importantly, keep your mind open and your creativity flowing, she says. If you’re feeling up to it, “go through all the racks. Men’s clothes, kids’ clothes, accessories, everything! Thrifting allows you to explore your style more, so don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone.” And her signature move? “Don’t forget to check the end of the rack, which is where you’re likely to find leave-behinds from other [shoppers].”

With a few of these strategies stashed in your thrifting toolkit, you can actually have fun secondhand shopping (and end up with a generations-old cotton staple or two), totally stress-free.

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14 Best Sandals for Traveling, All Podiatrist-Approved https://www.wellandgood.com/best-sandals-for-travel-for-women/ Sun, 18 Jun 2023 14:00:41 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1077301 Now that summer is (finally) here, it’s time to think about all the places you’ll go during the next few months. From amusement parks to the Amalfi Coast, it’s important to consider which shoes, mainly, which travel sandals, will accompany you on your journeys. There’s nothing worse than spending a long day sightseeing and coming back to the hotel to discover aching arches, pinched toes, and unsightly blisters. While we may look to sneakers first as a source of comfort, it’s summertime—and who wants to stuff their feet into sneakers on a hot and humid day, anyway? Speaking as someone who lives for a strappy sandal or a flip-flop year round (okay, living in Los Angeles may have something to do with that, but still), comfortable sandals are the way to go when the temperatures reach 80 and up.

Whenever I travel, I like to get out and do a lot. Yes, a day or two at the beach or pool is nice, but I’m a sightseer. Museums, city walking tours, bar and restaurant crawls—you name it, I’m probably doing it. So I’m always on the lookout not only for fashionable, comfortable sandals, but the best sandals for walking long distances, too.

When it comes to choosing the best sandals for travel, sizing is everything. “Make sure the width and length of the sandals fit your feet,” says Dr. Hillary Brenner, DPM. “Choose a sandal that is the correct size—go shoe shopping midday [or] towards the end of the day, that’s when your feet are true to size.”

The best sandals for travel, at a glance:

Things to consider before buying sandals for summer travel

Whether you’re looking for the best walking sandals, supportive sandals for women, or comfortable sandals, there are a host of factors to keep in mind when planning your summer travels. Maybe you’re hiking. Maybe you’re laying out on a tropical beach. Here’s what to think about when packing your sandals, wherever your summer plans may take you.

Comfort is key

We’ve all bought that pair of shoes that didn’t necessarily feel the best right away, but we figured they’d loosen up. But that’s not the case, according to Paragon Podiatry’s Dr. Ernest Isaacson, DPM. “Summer sandals, like all shoes, should be selected with an emphasis on comfort,” he says. “If it doesn’t feel good in the store or the first time it’s worn, it’s probably not going to improve over time.”

Arch support

Considering your arches is important, especially when you’re walking far distances or standing for long periods of time. “Sandals should have an arched contour, helping support your arch,” says Dr. Brenner. Flats are typically preferable to heels, and “should ideally have good arch support,” Dr. Isaacson says.

Stability

When choosing the right pair of sandals for summer travel, look for pairs that offer stability throughout a variety of activities. “Look for adjustable straps, preferably around the ankle,” recommends Dr. Brenner.

How to choose a comfortable pair of summer sandals

Whether you opt for flat sandals, wedges, espadrilles, or heels, make sure they’re comfortable and supportive.

Heels

“A 1-2-inch heel feels good as it provides stability for the ankle and structures toward the heel,” says Dr. Isaacson. “It relieves pressure on the arch and heel without exerting pressure on the ball of the foot.”

Flat sandals

For flat sandals, Dr. Isaacson recommends a thick flip-flop or sandal with a solid cork and leather insole.

Wedges

“I personally like wedges made of raffia, which aids in shock absorption,” says Dr. Brenner. Plus, they have a wide, chunky heel.”

Now that you’ve thought through all the reasons to choose comfortable sandals, here are our 13 favorites to take you around the globe in comfort and style.

13 best sandals for summer travel

Best overall sandal:

Teva, Midform Universal — $65.00

Simply put? I’m obsessed with this style from Teva. I’ve been wearing them on and off since high school (which is [redacted] amount of years ago), and they haven’t steered me wrong yet. Whether I’m spending a long day at Disneyland or trekking around a new city, this is the sandal that gets me through the day with tons of comfort by my side (or on my feet, as it were). With double adjustable Velcro straps, a treaded rubber outsole, and a cushioned EVA footbed, it’s hard to go wrong. The webbing is also crafted from quick-dry fabric, which comes in handy in freak rainstorms or even if you want to wear them into the water.

I’ve found that the Midform style offers more support and comfort than the Original Universal style, which is lower to the ground and causes the straps to dig into the skin more easily. They’re also extremely durable and long-lasting—they’re basically non-destructible, even after years of walking thousands of steps daily. With an almost staggering array of colors and prints (at last count, Amazon offered 54 different ones), it’s near impossible not to find at least one you want to wear.

Out of the more than 4,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, many point to these sandals’ ability to travel. “I have trekked through the forests of Costa Rica in these and will forever be a Tevas fan!” raves one Amazon shopper, while another says, “I was able to wear them all day without pain. I wore them in the ocean, hiking, to dinner, everywhere!”

Colors: 54

Available sizes: 5-13

Pros:

  • Supportive and lightweight    
  • Many colors to choose from
  • Relatively affordable
  • Available in a wide variety of sizes
  • Fits true to size

Cons:

  • Colors aren’t always restocked  
  • No half sizes or other width options
  • More rugged look might not appeal to everyone

Best wedge sandal:

Ecco, Flowt Wedge Cork — $106.00

Even when we’re aiming for comfort, we still have days when we want to dress up, too. These wedge sandals from Ecco easily toe the line (pun intended) between comfort and style. The strap across the ankle is adjustable, and the upper is made from brushed nubuck leather. The footbed is crafted from Ecco’s signature CORKSPHERE™, which adheres to the shape of your foot, and the sole features their FLUIDFORM™ Direct Comfort Technology for added support and comfort.

I’m partial to the Pure White Gold/Powder hue, which features a pebbled gold upper that looks ultra-chic while offering up tons of comfort. Plus, they’re washable! I love that the sole is rubber, which means they’re easier to wipe off after a long day of walking outside. “It’s like they were made for my feet and I was able to walk for a long period of time in them right out of the box,” says one reviewer. I tend to agree.

Colors: 3

Available sizes: 4-11.5

Pros:

  • Adjustable ankle straps  
  • Some colors include a size 4
  • Easy to walk in

Cons:

  • Sizing is a whole and a half together, so figuring out what fits best can be tricky
  • May take some time to break them in

Best flip-flop:

Reef, Cushion Breeze — $28.00

I’m a Cali girl at heart, so I always love a good pair of flip-flops. This style by Reef features a pillowy, cushioned footbed and treaded rubber outsole that encourage me to walk right out of my hotel room and not come back ’til sundown. Our editorial commerce director recently took these with her on a trip to Mexico where there was a lot of beach walking involved, and she was surprised by how soft and supportive these felt—and she didn’t need to break them in at all.

While some flip-flops can feel uncomfortable between the toes right out of the box, that’s definitely not the case with this pair. Since I’m always looking for ways to become more sustainable in my clothing and footwear choices, I also love that the lining and toe post are made from 100 percent recycled PET derived from post consumer plastic bottles. All four colors are versatile, but the white is especially sleek. This is a great style for more casual days, especially at the beach and pool.

With over 10,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, I’m definitely not alone in singing their praises. “These are perfect for walking long distances and no blisters,” says one reviewer. I agree.

Colors: 8

Available sizes: 5-12

Pros:

  • No break-in required  
  • Pretty affordable

Cons:

  • Not available in half sizes or other widths  
  • Some reviewers say they run small (we didn’t experience this, though)

Best sporty:

Dansko, Krystal — $80.00

I first heard about Dansko when I worked for a scrubs company and interviewed nurses about the shoes they preferred for long shifts. Over and over, they mentioned Dansko. So it stands to reason that I immediately checked them out for myself! While I don’t love the clogs (sorry, Dansko!), this modified flip-flop style appeals to my aforementioned love of flip-flops while also being undeniably easy to wear day in and day out.

I don’t typically have issues with my arches—but for people who do, this style is designed with the brand’s Natural Arch technology to offer extra comfort and support. I also love the interesting take on a classic flip-flop design, with a toe loop and wider vamp strap for added security. Plus, they’re designed with over 50 percent bio-based EVA—so they’re durable while also being good for the planet. Whether you want a more neutral hue like grey or black, or opt for a colorful color like the baby blue or lavender, this is one sandal that offers up must-have comfort.

Colors: 4
Available sizes: 5-12

Pros:

  • Made from durable rubber  
  • No break-in needed
  • Fits true to size

Cons:

  • A bit pricy
  • Combined whole and half sizes can make sizing difficult

Best quick-drying:

Forsake, Rogue Unisex Open Toe Sandal — $85.00

If you’re planning any outdoor adventures that involved getting wet this summer, pack Forsake’s water-friendly Rogue sandals in your bag. These durable, open-toe sandals are made for wading through rivers, paddling lakes, and staying protected from sea critters.

Nearly every feature in these supportive sandals are made with sustainable materials, including a shock-absorbing midsole made from recycled EVA foam and algae (yes, really). The outsole provides serious traction for navigating slippery rocks or slick docks, while the recycled polyester straps keep your feet in place. They dry so quickly. All the materials are water-resistant, especially the straps which don’t stay soggy long after they get wet. The best part? They float!

Colors: 4

Available sizes: 6-15

Pros: 

  • Supportive
  • Sustainable materials
  • Water-resistant and quick-drying
  • Super durable

Cons: 

  • No half sizes available
  • The top straps slip a bit after long hours of wear

Best slide sandal:

Vionic, Mayla — $110.00

It seems I’ve been searching my whole life for the perfect pair of comfortable yet stylish slides. I seem to have found that in spades with this Vionic style. The puffy faux nappa leather is pillowy soft, while they’re also biomechanically designed to hug your arches and support natural body alignment. This style also received the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which is granted to products that promote good foot health. Dr. Brenner likes Vionic, too, and says they focus on arch support, shock absorption and minimizing blisters. “Most importantly, they take biomechanics into consideration when designing,” she says.

The 1.5-inch platform also lends added comfort and support while walking longer distances. They feel more secure than other slides I’ve tried, which just, well, slide right off my feet as soon as I take a step. I will caution that the midsole is raised a bit, which gives the slides the feeling of a little ball you’re rocking back and forth on as you take steps forward. This can feel a bit off-putting at first. They’re like “walking on a cloud,” says one reviewer, and I wholeheartedly agree.

Colors: 4
Available sizes: 5-11

Pros:

  • Whole and half sizes available  
  • Super cushiony feel
  • No break-in needed

Cons:

  • Curved midsole can feel strange  
  • Run a bit large
  • No other width options

Best casual sandal:

Birkenstock, Kyoto — $150.00

It’s taken me an almost embarrassingly long time to hop on board the Birkenstock train. My friend Cari has been telling me how comfortable they are for years, but I’d tried a couple pairs without success. Then the Kyoto walked into my life—and the rest was history. While the brand’s signature two-strap Arizona style has just never fit me correctly, this style fits so well that I never want to take them off. I love the double Velcro strap design, with one slender strap encompassed within the wider outer strap.

Birkenstock’s iconic footbed encourages proper foot wellbeing and health and the longitudinal arch support runs along both sides of the footbed, while the deep heel cup cradles the heel and keeps natural cushioning right under the heel bone. There’s even a raised toe bar, which helps encourage the natural gripping motion of your feet and stimulate circulation. (I never knew I actually wanted my shoes to give me a workout until I tried these.) The result? Stable, comfortable, supportive sandals that easily stand up to long days of walking, walking, and more walking.

The Kyoto comes in a whopping 28 different colors, with multiple different fabrications available, so finding at least one to covet is pretty easy. I love the Nubuck/Suede in Candy Pink for a subtle pop of color.

Colors: 28

Available sizes: 4-12.5

Pros:

  • No break-in needed  
  • Designed for comfort
  • Long-lasting materials

Cons:

  • Might run a bit large  
  • No other widths available
  • Suede might be too warm for some

Best lightweight sandal:

Oofos, Oolala Luxe — $75.00

I’ve already told you how much I love flip-flops, so it should come as no surprise that I’m including another pair on the list. This style by Oofos is equal parts comfortable and lightweight, the latter of which is always nice when trying to figure out what to cram in an already overstuffed suitcase. They’re made with the brand’s trademark OOfoam™ technology to absorb a high percentage of impact.

The footbed also helps reduce stress on knees, ankles, and other joints—although it’s also so soft and cushy that it can take a bit of getting used to, though I’m of the opinion that it feels like you’re walking on clouds. I also love the wider thong straps.. “I’m extremely flat footed and these are so comfortable to wear,” says one reviewer, including, “They also feel great after a long day on your feet.”

Colors: 14
Available sizes: 5-11

Pros:

  • Many color options
  • Durable, water-resistant materials

Cons:

  • Straps take a while to get used to  
  • No half sizes
  • No other width options

Best supportive sandal:

Bobs from Skechers, Pop Ups 3.0 — $55.00

True story: As soon as I slipped these sandals on my feet, I texted my mom a photo and said, “I’m in love with these Skechers sandals.” They’re cushy, they’re comfortable, they’re a bold mint green, and they’re a dupe for Tevas. Seriously, what’s not to love? Skechers is definitely having a style renaissance as of late, and these sandals from their Bobs line are an example of that. The woven strap upper features an adjustable ankle strap and the brand’s signature Plush Foam® footbed for added support. The treaded outsole makes it easy to, ahem, tread long distances.

One reviewer writes, “I have fallen arches and damaged muscles from prior injuries but walking in them has been stabilizing and comforting. This is the most I’ve been able to walk.”

Colors: 3
Available sizes: 6-10

Pros:

  • More affordable option to Teva sandals    
  • Machine-washable
  • No break-in period
  • Skechers donates a portion of the proceeds to help an animal in need

Cons:

  • Footbed is a bit bulky  
  • Limited size options

Best stylish sandal:

Aerosoles, Greta Sandal — $99.00

For days and nights when you want to be comfortable yet stylish, this option from Aerosoles is a good stand-by. I love the more elevated take on a classic flip-flop, and the gleaming gold interlocking buckle detail adds a polished touch. Not to mention the wide thong strap that effortlessly shows off your summer pedicure.

These sandals are also designed with a supportive ortholite insole, diamond flex outsole, and flat heel that lend themselves easily to long days and nights of walking. I will caution that the upper feels a bit stiff right out of the box, so they might take a bit of breaking in before popping them into your suitcase.

Colors: 4
Available sizes: 5-12

Pros:

  • Both full and half sizes available  
  • Super stylish

Cons:

  • Only available in one width  
  • Can take some time to break in
  • A bit pricy

Best versatile sandal:

Native Shoes, Ellis Sugarlite — $55.00

Looking for that one easy, casual, lightweight, supportive, comfortable, goes-with-everything summer sandal? The Ellis Sugarlite does it all. This modern take on a classic Grecian sandal slips on with ease, adjusts to your foot with a Velcro back strap, holds up to miles and miles of walking … really, what can’t these sandals do? The soles are crafted from Sugarlite™, which is Native Shoes’ sugarcane-based EVA that uses less greenhouse gas emissions than traditional EVA. I’m always looking for flat sandals that are equal parts comfortable and stylish, and these ones absolutely deliver.

Colors: 3
Available sizes: 5-11

Pros:

  • Comfortable right out of the box  
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • No half sizes available  
  • No other width options
  • Only three color options

Best affordable sandal:

Cushionaire, Feather — $25.00

With a staggering 30 different colors to choose from and a desirable price tag, these Cushionaire slides are a summer comfort must. The spongy molded footbed confirms effortlessly to your foot, and the waterproof material makes them ideal for the beach. Plus, the non-slip bottom keeps you from—you guessed it—slipping when you walk. I was pleasantly surprised when I first slipped these out of the box and onto my feet; the subtle 1.75-inch platform heel lends a bit of height and a lot of support.

These slides have over 20,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, so I’m definitely in good company. Multiple reviewers point to how comfortable and cushiony they are in dealing with issues like sore heels or plantar fasciitis. “These are more than comfortable, they’re miracle workers, states one reviewer. “I had been having heel pain for months. I was considering going to the podiatrist to see if I needed surgery. In days, I felt my heel pain ease up. They’re super cushioned. Super comfortable. They must have corrected whatever poor walking habits I had. I can’t say enough about how much these slides have eased my foot pain.” With raves like that, you’ll be hard pressed not to find at least one shade that appeals to you.

Colors: 30

Available sizes: 5-12

Pros:

  • Many color and size options  
  • Waterproof
  • Very affordable

Cons:

  • No half sizes or other width options

Best sustainable sandal:

Sanuk, Cosmic Sutra Sling LX — $85.00

I’ve long been a fan of Sanuk—the brand’s signature yoga mat footbeds make every pair of shoes they offer supremely comfortable. I already owned three pairs of the Yoga Sling 2, so it stood to reason that I’d need to try the Cosmic Sutra Sling LX, too. Walking in these is somehow pillowy and supportive all at once. The ankle strap and double top straps make them secure yet comfortable, and the previously mentioned Yoga Mat footbed offers resiliency and support. Better yet, the sandals are designed with an impressive variety of sustainable materials.

I’m partial to the tan color, especially for summer, though they also come in basic black. Reviewers say they’re “so comfortable and not slippery,” “versatile and very cute,” and one hopes for even more shades to be released, saying, “I would like this shoe in every color.” I tend to agree.

Colors: 2

Available sizes: 5-11

Pros:

  • Comfortable right out of the box  
  • Versatile style
  • Sustainable

Cons:

  • No half sizes or other width options  
  • Takes a bit of breaking in

Best clog:

Crocs, Zen Garden Sensory Classic Terry Cloth — $60.00

Say what you want about Crocs, but they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. These clogs give most shoes a run for their money when it comes to comfort, because the treaded rubber footbed molds to your feet and they’re made for miles and miles of walking. Plus, the movable strap lets you choose whether to wear it around your ankle or more like a modified Mary Jane.

I held off on buying Crocs for years, no matter how many friends of mine told me I was making a mistake. But as soon as I finally bought my first pair, I knew just what I’d been missing. Now I own two pairs, including this fun ’70s-inspired floral print with accompanying flower Jibbitz charm, and I have to admit—I don’t really want to take them off! I also love that the strap on this specific pair is terry cloth for added visual interest. I’ve worn them on long plane rides, during a day at Disneyland, walking around the French Quarter in New Orleans, all without a hint of pain or discomfort. Crocs may not be the most attractive shoes out there, but when it comes to comfort, they’re pretty much unparalleled!

Colors: 1
Available sizes: 4-15

Pros:

  • No break-in needed  
  • Wide variety of sizes
  • Waterproof

Cons:

  • No half sizes available
  • Style can be polarizing
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These Best-Selling, Coveted Tory Burch Tennis Skirts and Sandals Are Massively Discounted Right Now https://www.wellandgood.com/tory-burch-semi-annual-sale-2023/ Thu, 15 Jun 2023 22:00:29 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1077619 The Tory Burch Semi-Annual Sale is finally here, just in time to stock up for summer. From June 15 through July 5, the designer brand beloved for its perfectly styled tennis skirts and exercise dresses (plus its iconic footwear) is offering an additional 25 percent off sale prices, bringing some discounts to as much as 60 percent off for steep savings. The designer rarely goes on sale, so now’s the time to strike while the iron’s sizzling.

This sale season, we’re taking advantage of the discounts—as so many of our favorite pieces are now priced at under $100—and stocking up on Tory Burch sandals and tennis skirts to stay cool (and a little sporty) all summer long. Here are our top picks for the best Tory Burch sandals and skirts on sale right now.

Not seeing anything you like on this page? Shop here for all deals.

What we’re eyeing at the Tory Burch semi-annual sale

Open Collar V-Neck Tennis Dress
Open Collar V-Neck Tennis Dress — $135.00

Originally $248, now $135

While this technically isn’t a tennis skirt—it’s a tennis dress—we couldn’t leave it off our list. The Open Collar V-Neck Tennis Dress is a super popular, preppy piece we’ve been tracking to go on sale for months—and now it’s finally discounted. (Hard work pays off, you guys.)

We love it because it’s a mix between a straight and pleated tennis dress with a straight panel in the front and pleats that wrap around the hips and backside. It’s also constructed from a lightweight and breathable polyester and spandex material, making it super functional whether you want to wear it for a game of tennis or as a sweat-proof option on a hot summer day. Wear it casually with sneakers and a sweatshirt tied around your waist or dress it up with a pair of loafers and a lightweight jacket for the perfect athleisure look.  

Sizes: XS-2XL

Colors: White

Materials: Polyester, spandex

Tory Burch Laser Cut Pleated Hem Tennis Skirt
Laser Cut Pleated Hem Tennis Skirt — $90.00

Originally $158, now $90

If you’re looking for a functional tennis skirt that is also stylish enough to wear to brunch post-match, we are obsessed with the Laser Cut Pleated Hem Tennis Skirt, which is on sale for $90. This adorable skirt is constructed from a polyester and spandex blend, comes in classic white and navy, and features laser-cut eyelet-inspired circle details on the pleated hemline. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and designed to wick away sweat and dry quickly, too. 

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: White, navy

Materials: Polyester, spandex

 

Tech Twill Pleated Tennis Skirt
Tech Twill Pleated Tennis Skirt — $87.00

Originally $148, now $90

The Tech Twill Pleated Tennis Skirt is another athleisure option we love from the Tory Burch sale, thanks to its classic pleated silhouette and functional stretch twill material that is sweat-wicking enough to wear for a match. Inspired by movement and classic tennis ensembles, we love this skirt because it feels sporty yet super chic, and has a gorgeous pop of color on the waistband. On top of that, it’s on sale for $90, which is $58 off the original price. You can’t really beat that.

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: White

Materials: Polyester

Tory Burch Tech Piqué Side-Slit Tennis Skirt
Tech Piqué Side-Slit Tennis Skirt — $72.00

Originally $148, now $75

The Tech Pliqué Side-Slit Tennis Skirt is another fun tennis skirt that, thanks to its sweat-wicking technology, is functional enough to wear for a match but also a little more on the casual side, allowing you to create a comfortable preppy daytime ensemble. Constructed from a polyester and spandex blend, the skirt features two eye-catching stripes in either maroon or green and a straight skort silhouette with slits on the side for comfort and movement. Originally $148, you can now score this skirt for $75 when you shop the Tory Burch sale. 

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: White with maroon stripes, white with green stripes

Materials: Polyester, spandex

 

Tory Burch Double T Sport Slide
Double T Sport Slide — $105.00

Originally $198, now $105

Lean into the pastel trend with these chic and stylish leather slides from Tory Burch. The Double T Sport Slide has an elevated feel that is casual enough to wear with cut-off shorts and a tank top but could also look just as chic with a pair of trousers and a blouse. We love them because they are also super comfortable with a flexible cushioned sole and, of course, they have that iconic Tory Burch T logo front and center. Originally almost $200, these sandals are now on sale for $105 when you shop now.

Sizes: Women’s 4-13

Colors: Pink, mint green

Materials: Leather, rubber

Tory Burch Bubble Jelly Slide Sandal
Bubble Jelly Slide Sandal — $90.00

Originally $188, now $90

With the return of Y2K style, jelly sandals are one of the trendiest shoes of summer. We love the Bubble Jelly Slide Sandals from Tory Burch because they put a modern spin on the early 2000s style and they come in tons of fun colors, including two-tone options. Perfect for the pool, beach, or running errands on a sweltering summer day, these waterproof sandals keep your feet comfortable with a cushioned air bubble sole and they’re on major sale right now. Originally $188, you can now get them for $90 when you shop the Tory Burch Semi-Annual Sale.  

Sizes: Women’s 4-13

Colors: Fluorescent pink, peach and lavender, peach, pink, white, navy, black, red and purple, orange, yellow, light blue and yellow, blue

Materials: TPU, plastic

 

Tory Burch Yoyo Flip Flop
Yoyo Flip Flop — $75.00

Originally $228, now $75

Have some fun with your summer wardrobe with the Tory Burch Yoyo Flip Flop! These EVA-based sandals provide the soles with a fun pop of color and texture thanks to the ruffled scrunchie straps (which are actually cotton rosettes strung along the straps). They’re eye-catching, fun, and on sale for $75, which is a whopping $153 off the original price tag. 

Sizes: Women’s 5-11

Colors: Orange

Materials: EVA

 

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The Sun-Protective Hat a Dermatologist Won’t Go to the Beach Without https://www.wellandgood.com/coolibar-travel-beach-hat/ Wed, 14 Jun 2023 00:00:17 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1076205 If there’s one thing dermatologists will never stop preaching, it’s how harmful prolonged sun exposure can be. But that doesn’t mean they’re inside hiding in the dark all day—they just know how to protect themselves. They’re slathering on sunscreen, making sure to reapply, and seeking shade, especially when the sun is high in the sky. And to go the extra skin-protecting mile, Iris Rubin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Bethesda, Maryland, brings a little bit of shade with her whenever she’s headed to the beach.

“I really like Coolibar’s Travel Beach Hat ($49),” says Dr. Rubin. “It has a wide brim for face and neck coverage and an adjustable,  removable cord so it won’t fly away on a windy day.”

The Coolibar’s Travel Beach Hat comes in three colors, sand, navy, and sage. It has a shapeable 5-inch brim that wraps all the way around to provide ample face, ear, and neck shade. Plus, it’s collapsible, making it easy to bring on every beach trip. “You can pack it in your suitcase without worrying about it getting crushed,” says Dr. Rubin.

The best part? It has UPF 50+ protection, meaning it blocks 98 percent of the sun’s rays.

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, which is the rating given to the clothing to indicate how effectively the fabric is blocking the UV rays,” explains Ellen Marmur, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “You should always be wearing some sort of SPF, and UPF [clothing] has a numerical rating which indicates how protective the fabric is to the UV rays. These types of clothing are perfect for outdoor running or even walking your dog for that extra layer of protection.”

In addition to proving shade for your face, it also protects your scalp.

“Protecting the scalp from the sun is so important, especially if your hairstyle involves a distinct part when you’re outdoors,” says Dr. Rubin. “Although you can use sunscreen on this thin line of sun-exposed skin, my preferred way to shield the scalp from UV rays is to do so physically by wearing a hat.”

Whether you’re headed to the beach, spending lots of time in the garden, or taking long walks, the Coolibar Travel Beach Hat is the perfect companion to work alongside your sunscreen and keep you protected from harsh rays.

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Here’s How Peloton Trainer Ally Love Uses Color to Match Her Intensity–Plus Her Favorite Pieces From the Brand’s New Collection https://www.wellandgood.com/ally-love-peloton-outfits/ Sun, 11 Jun 2023 17:00:20 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1072521 When you tune in to one of Ally Love’s Peloton classes, there’s a secret clue you can look for that will tell you just what kind of ride you’re in for that day: the color of Love’s Peloton outfits.

“I allow my look to influence and speak to the vibe, the feeling, the dynamic, the intensity of the class I’m leading,” Love says. “If I’m coming out in pink, you know we’re having a good time. If I’m coming out in reds or something dark, then we’re likely going right into climbing hills.”

Can it really be that one-to-one? Love feels strongly that the way she dresses both impacts and mirrors her mood. So much so that in high school, if she got dressed in a hurry and ended up in a “blah” outfit, she’d sometimes end up feeling down—so her friends would switch some clothing around with her to brighten her day. “From a young age, what I [wore] impacted my mood and my perception of my experience,” Love says.

That impulse carries over today. “I do try to align my outfit with the way I want people to feel within the class experience,” Love says. “I’m pretty strategic about what I pick out to wear especially for my Peloton classes. I try to pick colors that literally correspond with the perceived exertion. Everything about me is aligned with the amount of intensity (or this lack of intensity), so it’s important to me.”

For someone whose mood is so affected by and reflected in her clothing, Love puts a lot of care into choosing the garments she puts on her body, including her Peloton outfits. Which is why, when it comes to her outfit recommendations, you know she’s not choosing lightly. From the bike to the street to the office, here are some of Love’s favorite (colorful) pieces from Peloton’s Spring collection. Keep an eye out from them the next time you join one of her rides—it might be clue for how fast and furious you’ll be peddling.

Peloton outfits fit for the queen of color

A woman smiling at camera wearing a mint green tank top with suit pants and an open suit vest.
Performance Rib Racerback Tank — $48.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

Love says you can pair this cool, minty green tank top with more than leggings, like trousers and a blazer,  jeans, skirts, and more, making it a multi-purpose garment worth a spot in your wardrobe. When you do wear it to ride, however, the performance fabric will go the distance to keep you comfortable. The soft, stretchy fabric moves with you, so you won’t have to worry about chafing, digging in, or holding you back.

A woman in matching purple leggings and a sports bra, crouching down, and wearing an oversized denim sheet slung off of her shoulders.
One Shoulder Seamless Crop Bra — $46.00

Love likes to wear matching workout outfits that she elevates with a sweatshirt or an oversized button down. Take this one-shoulder sports bra, for example. The seamless, longline cut looks stylish and trendy underneath jackets, sweaters, and other layers. While it’s probably not supportive enough for high-intensity sweat sessions, it’s perfect for low-impact workouts like yoga, stretching, and walking.

The lower body of a model showing off a pair of purple ankle length leggings with white sneakers.
High Rise Seamless ⅞ Legging — $76.00

If you want to get matchy matchy with your workout wardrobe, pair the above sports bra with these matching purple leggings. The solid stripe down the leg shows the world you mean business, while the buttery smooth, flexible fabric keeps you comfy, whether you’re stretched out in yoga class or on your couch.

A model wearing a navy hoodie with white drawstrings at the neck.
Rib Insert Pullover Hoodie — $98.00

Go navy blue for when you want some business-meets-cozy, work-from-home vibes. This classic hoodie is made from French cotton terry that’s perfect for all seasons and looks as chic as it is snuggly. Expect everything you want out of a timeless hoodie, including a kangaroo pouch and drawstring hood. Only this one has a back-rib insert detailing in a v-shape that give it some edge from all the other sweatshirts in your closet.

A woman leaning against a row of lockers wearing navy sweatpants, white sneakers, a blue button down shirt, and a blue sweatshirt slung around her shoulders.
Classic Sweatpant — $76.00

Love pairs the above hoodie with a preppy button-down and the matching sweatpants for a polished, scholastic look. But the good news is, you don’t have to dress them up; they go just as well with workout tops, sports bras, camisoles, and more. Just like Love suggests, wear whatever feels good to you and matches your mood.

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You Should Wear More Linen in the Summer if You Have Eczema—And This Internet-Favorite Brand Has So Many Designer Dupes https://www.wellandgood.com/quince-linen-sensitive-skin-eczema/ Sun, 11 Jun 2023 13:00:58 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1069789 Those with eczema know all too well that summer heat doesn’t mix well with eczema-prone skin. Hot temperatures can aggravate the skin’s barrier, causing a flare-up or itchiness. While there’s not much we can do about the heat, changing our clothes to more breathable can be a game-changer. Moisture-wicking, breezy fabrics can make all the difference, and all the dermatologists we talked to tell us they recommend linen for eczema. However, linen is notorious for being an expensive fabric, but we found a brand that’s a goldmine for affordable linen pieces: Quince.

Why is linen so great for eczema and acne-prone skin?

“Linen is a great option for eczema and acne-prone skin,” says Leah Ansell, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Rye, New York. “First, it has high moisture absorptivity, which means it absorbs sweat well. Second, it is a stiffer fabric, which allows for space between the body and clothing for better ventilation and cooling.”

Similar to cotton, linen is considered to be hypoallergenic and because the fabric is highly absorbent and prevents sweat from accumulating on the skin, which can be an irritant to eczema or cause breakouts, she adds. Beloved for everyday basics and a W+G editor favorite, Quince is ripe with linen basics, from jumpsuits to trousers to dresses. For example, by doing a quick Google search, you’ll find that most quality linen jumpsuits are priced between $100 and $130, but Quince’s Linen Square Neck Jumpsuit is reasonably priced at $60 (a win-win for your skin and your wallet).

And there’s more where that came from. We scoured Quince’s site and found the best linen pieces that’ll keep your skin happy while staving off sweaty skin.

Quince European Linen Square Neck Jumpsuit
European Linen Square Neck Jumpsuit — $60.00

Sizes available: XS-XL

This reasonably-priced jumpsuit will take the guesswork out of choosing an outfit for the day. Made of 100 percent linen, this jumpsuit is breathable, has a loose-fitting silhouette, and doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. As a short gal, I love how this jumpsuit falls right at my ankles, and the jumpsuit comes with a tie belt to accentuate my waist. Easy to wear, breezy, and timeless, this jumpsuit is going to be my go-to outfit for summery days and nights out (I’ve worn it several times and already got compliments on it).

Colors: 5

Quince European Linen Short Sleeve Shirt
European Linen Short Sleeve Shirt — $35.00

Sizes available: XS-XL

If you’re looking for an easy-to-wear top that reads “put together,” look no further than Quince’s Short Sleeve Shirt. This shirt can level up any fit with its button-up design and polished collar. It has a boxy fit to vent hot air on scorching summer days when the sun’s ablaze, and the 100 percent linen composition wicks away moisture and sweat. What’s more, the shirt is OEKO-TEX certified, so it’s unlikely to irritate sensitive or eczema-prone skin. I paired my shirt with Quince’s Linen Pants for the ultimate breezy outfit.

Colors: 11

Quince European Linen Pants
European Linen Pants — $40.00

Sizes available: XS-XL

For days when you’re on the go go go, I’d recommend slipping on Quince’s Linen Pants. This pair is constructed out of 100 percent flax linen, so it’s super breathable to wear. As someone with thicker thighs, some pants can make my thighs feel constricted, but not these. Over time, the linen stretches, and the elastic waistband renders these pants even more comfortable to wear (if you’re looking for something more form-fitting, I wouldn’t suggest these). Lounging around the house or leisure activities outdoors—these linen pants will ward off sweat and keep you cool no matter how toasty things get.

Colors: 10

Quince European Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress
European Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress — $60.00

Sizes available: XS-XL

Whether you’re heading to the farmer’s market or taking a walk outside, you’ll feel breezy and comfy and receive a deluge of compliments in this Sleeveless Swing Dress. It’s lightweight, made of breathable linen, and has two functional pockets, so you won’t need to carry around a purse. What’s more, it has a loose silhouette, so you’re never starved of air flow. Pair it with some comfy sandals and accessorize with a sun hat for a casual look.

Colors: 5

Quince European Linen High Waisted Short
European Linen High Waisted Short — $30.00

Sizes available: XS-XL

Nothing screams “summer” than a pair of linen shorts—and this pair delivers “vacation in Santorini, Greece” vibes. Crop tops pair well with the short’s high-waisted fit, and the shorts have a built-in elasticated waistband that makes putting this pair on an easy endeavor. If you’re heading outside, pair these shorts with a flow-y top and some podiatrist-approved sandals for ultimate comfort.

Colors: 3

Quince European Linen Trapeze Midi Dress
European Linen Trapeze Midi Dress — $70.00

Sizes available: XS-XL

For something fun and flirty, Quince’s Linen Trapeze Dress is a must! The fabric is made of 100 percent linen, so the dress is easy and breezy to wear. The elasticated back makes it easy to throw over a swimsuit, and the straps are adjustable, so that you can tailor the fit to you. You can wear it on date night, summer picnics, or ice cream runs.

Colors: 3

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Dive Into Summer With 20% off Sustainable Swim, Cover-Ups, and More During the Faherty 2-Day Flash Sale https://www.wellandgood.com/faherty-flash-sale/ Fri, 09 Jun 2023 15:15:58 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1074101 This time of year, there are a lot of reasons why you might want to splurge on a new swimsuit. It is summer, after all—maybe you’re looking to treat yourself to an early Father’s Day present. Or, maybe you’re gearing up for that Caribbean vacation you’ve been daydreaming at your desk about for the past few months. Maybe you don’t have any plans at all; maybe you just want a fresh bikini or one-piece to leave you feeling like a million bucks on the beach.

Whatever the reasoning, Faherty has got your back for diving into summer with some brand new swag, all for 20 percent off. This weekend only, the laidback coastal brand known for its breezy knits and just-rolled-off-the-beach vibe is throwing a major Flash Sale and slashing prices on select sales styles. This includes a boatload of summer essentials, like bathing suits, beach towels, cover-ups, flip-flops, and more, many of which are made from high-quality, sustainable materials that look just as good on you as they do Mother Earth. Plus, your proceeds go back to a good cause; Faherty pledges one percent of all swim sales back to the planet through 1% for the Planet.

If you didn’t have a reason to splurge on a new suit, you certainly do now. Just shop fast—the Faherty Flash Sale ends Sunday, June 11 at midnight. Stock up your beach bag while you still can.

Make a splash in our favorite picks from the Faherty Flash Sale

Faherty, Coral Reef One Piece — $110.00

Originally $138, now $110 

Available sizes: XS-XL

Dive into summer with this bright, textured one-piece that will put a smile on your face the moment you slip it on. Its minimalist design features flirty touches, like a scoop neckline and high-cut legs, while still offering plenty of coverage and protection from the sun. Choose from colors like “hibiscus,” a DayGlo pink, “lupine,” a pretty lilac, and classic black.

Colors: 3

Classic Boardshorts (7") — $78.00

Originally $98, now $78

Available sizes: 28-42

Need a last-minute Father’s Day gift? A pair of swim trunks will keep him cool until next holiday and beyond. Cut with a 7″ inseam, the Classic Boardshorts are, well, a classic. They’re also sustainable and are made from recycled polyester (sourced from recycled water bottles), so it’s just as much a gift for him as it is for the planet.

Colors: 7

Shoreside Tankini — $58.00

Originally $78, now $58 

Available sizes: XS-XXL

If you love the look and feel of a longline bra, meet the Shoreside Tankini. It’s cut with the same waist-dusting silhouette for a little added coverage in the bodice and sports-adjustable spaghetti straps for finding your custom fit. But the star of the show is definitely the retro sunset graphic (one that Faherty is known for) that’ll get you plenty of compliments in line at the beach bar. The materials—a blend of recycled nylon and Lycra—don’t hurt either. Get the matching Seascape Bikini Bottoms (originally $48, now $38) here.

Beacon Trunk (7") — $78.00

Originally $98, now $78

Available sizes: XS-XXL

If you prefer a slim, fitted swim trunk over the loose, relaxed look, go with the Beacon Trunks. They’re a bit more tapered than the Classic Boardshorts, but still have a comfortable fit—only with less bagginess. Like the other swim shorts, though, they’re just as sustainable and feature recycled materials that are quick-drying, wrinkle-free, and slightly stretchy for comfort in the sand and surf.

Colors: 17

Seascape Bikini Top — $52.00

Originally $78, now $52

Available sizes: XS-XL

Few feelings in this world compare to finding a swimsuit that fits just rightEnter, the Seascape Bikini, a crop-top-inspired top that goes the extra mile in terms of comfort, style, and support. Fully lined with adjustable straps and a hook closure at the back, you’ll be able to get exactly the fit you want (and won’t have to worry about any slippage while you’re body surfing). Our only advice? Get two, because you’ll want to wear them all summer long. Get the matching Seascape Bikini Bottoms (originally $48, now $38) here. 

Colors: 3

Biarritz Boardshort (6") — $102.00

Originally $128, now $102

Available sizes: 28-42

These palm-printed trunks will whisk you away on a tropical getaway, even when you’re chilling in the backyard. They’re an inch shorter than the other board shorts on this list, but what they lack in length, they make up for in thoughtful details, like a patch on the backside pocket, mesh backing in the pockets for easy drainage, and velcro at the tie for extra closure.

Kauai One Piece

Originally $128, now $102

Available sizes: XS-XXL

There’s so much goodness in this one-piece bathing suit, it’s hard to pick where to start. Let’s go with the fabric, though, which is made from recycled nylon and Lycra Xtra Life, an elastane that bolsters the lifespan of the suit from things like sunscreen, chlorine, salt, and other elements that cause materials to break down over time. On top of the material, the print is just so cute, and comes from Faherty’s first-ever swim line that was launched 10 years ago. Don’t call it a comeback… or do.

Colors: 2

Blocked Beacon Trunk (6") — $102.00

Originally $128, now $102 

Available sizes: XS-XXL

Another pick from the 10th-anniversary capsule collection, these vintage-inspired trunks are as good as they get. A slightly shorter inseam provides a bit more movement and flexibility in the legs without riding up. Like the others, the material is good for the planet, too, and is mainly made from recycled polyester with a smidge of cotton (for breathability) and elastane (for stretch).

Colors: 17

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These Viral, Tropical-Colored Slides Have the Best Arch Support I’ve Ever Worn in a Flat Sandal—And They’re 35% Off Right Now https://www.wellandgood.com/beek-sandals-review/ Wed, 07 Jun 2023 17:00:32 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1073697 Anyone who knows me (or follows me on social media) knows that I’m a sucker for color. I live by the motto “all the color, all the time.” Because of this, I’m always on the lookout for clothing brands that just get it—and by that, I mean that they don’t only offer neutral or dull, muted colors. While I understand that some people love shopping for basics that can go with everything—I’d much rather reach for vibrant hues, especially when it comes to shoes. Of course, many footwear brands still have a long way to go in terms of wide color offerings, as most times, they offer an array of neutrals with a few seasonal bright hues that often sell out almost immediately.

One brand, however, that prioritizes a rainbow-inspired selection all the time is Beek. Perhaps you’ve heard of them? After all, the hand-made leather sandals are making the rounds on TikTok, with 3 billion views and counting.

After seeing them pop up on my feed more times than I can count, I figured it was time I tried I got my feet in a pair of Beek sandals. And they did not disappoint.

The Beek difference

Spending over $200 for a pair of sandals isn’t something I’d normally recommend, but when it comes to Beek, I have to admit: I understand the markup. However, now through July 9, you can score up to 35 percent off most styles. The brand’s current Summer Sale provides you with 25 percent off of select styles, no code necessary. Then you can stack the code WGBEEK10 to get an additional (!!!) 10 percent off.

Aside from being cute, they’re hand-crafted with the utmost care and quality. According the brand’s website, each pair takes around 48 hours to make from start to finish using ultra-soft vegetable leather that only gets softer with every wear. Throw in a molded arch, and they really are a treat for feet. Beek also has a give-back program and works with organizations to fight childhood hunger. For every pair of Beek shoes sold, the brand donates roughly five meals through the Childhood Harvest Strategy and Second Harvest Food Bank. 

As for the shoes, I tested out the Beek Pelican Leather Platform Sandal ($280) and Beek Sugarbird Slide Sandal ($230)—two of the most popular styles they offer, both of which are sold in women’s sizes 5 to 11. In both cases, the sandal structure is applaudable.

Beek, Pelican Leather Platform Sandal — $182.00

Originally $280, on sale for $182 plus an additional 10 percent off with the code WGBEEK10.

Available sizes: 5-13

Colors: 11

Pros: 

  • Colorful and cute
  • Molded arch
  • Stay in place
  • Flatform heel
  • Memory foam footbed

Cons: 

  • Expensive
  • Only available in whole sizes
Beek, Sugarbird Slide Sandal — $173.00

Originally $230, on sale for $173 plus an additional 10 percent off with the code WGBEEK10.

Available sizes: 5-11

Colors: 11

Pros: 

  • Colorful and cute
  • Molded arch
  • Memory foam footbed
  • Grippy rubber outsole

Cons: 

  • Expensive
  • Run small — only available in whole sizes

Where the Beek Pelican Leather Platform Sandal features a molded memory foam footbed with a slightly lifted rim for your feet to settle into, the Beek Sugarbird Slide Sandal has memory foam footbeds with sculpted arch support despite being a super thin, flat sandal. Truly, I’ve not seen this level of construction in a flat sandal—it made me do a double-take.

Construction aside, the color selection is wow-worthy. Instead of offering only a couple bright colors juxtaposed against a bevy of neutrals, Beek prioritizes a tropical-colored palette. The Beek Pelican Leather Platform Sandal is sold in 11 colors (five of which are neutral) and the Beek Sugarbird Slide Sandal is offered in 11 shades (four of which are neutral—and one of those is a fun snake print). Best of all, the colors they offer aren’t muted pastels, but are instead vibrant, juicy shades like tangerine, celery, hibiscus, papaya, and fuchsia. Bonus: There’s even a metallic option in each style.

Keep in mind

All in all, I’m a big fan of the style, structure, and colors the Beek sandals offer. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that (in my experience) they do run a bit small. I’m typically a size 10 in sandals, and while the Beek Pelican Leather Platform Sandal fit quite well, I found the Sugarbird Slide to be a touch short in the footbed (I would have been better off with a 10.5, but they don’t offer half sizes).

Photo: Author

That said, I only really noticed the size discrepancy in motion. While standing still, my foot looked perfectly fitted, however, mid-stride, I found that my foot slipped around a bit, which I think is due to the shallow nature of the toe straps—I feel like if they came back a bit further toward the mid-foot, that wouldn’t happen. Still, I don’t think this is a mark on the brand so much as it is on that sandal silhouette in general, as I have other sandals that are equally as slim in design that do the same thing.

All this to say: If you’re looking for bright, comfortable sandals that are built to last a lifetime (as opposed to a single summer), Beek is worth considering. If you opt for the Sugarbird style, though, be sure to size up and know that, while comfortable, they’re not the best shoe for walking long stints. The Pelican Leather Platform Sandal, however, will get you wherever you need to go without slipping out of place. And, like Birks, Beek sandals are said to only get more comfortable with wear—what more could you ask for?

If you’re as sold as you should be at this point, act fast. This Beek sale is rare, and the additional 10% off with code WGBEEK10 (this code will apply to your entire purchase) is a limited time offer just for our readers. Shop all of the Summer Sale styles here.

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How Ultrarunner Mirna Valerio Is Fighting for ‘Pace Inclusivity’ So No Runner Gets Left Behind https://www.wellandgood.com/pace-inclusivity/ Sun, 04 Jun 2023 14:00:33 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1071919 Marathon and ultramarathon runner Mirna Valerio wanted to kick off her Thanksgiving Day doing what she loved: Running. So while many of us were preparing to simply avoid awkward family conversation and consume multiple yam dishes, Valerio was lacing up for a Turkey Trot race.

She did not get the empowering finish she had hoped for. Valerio runs at what’s considered a slower place, between a 13- and a 17-minute mile. She was the last person to finish the race, which was fine with her—a finish is a finish! Except that the moment she stepped off the mat that marked the race’s end, she heard a loud ripping of tape—the sound of the finishing line mat getting pulled up.

“It totally destroyed the moment, having that sort of sacred moment interrupted by the sound of the mat being ripped up,” Valerio says. “They couldn’t have waited 10 more seconds?”

Valerio, unfortunately, has experienced this lack of what she calls “pace inclusivity” many times. Pace inclusivity means considering all running running, no matter how fast or slow. And it means designing and staffing races to accommodate all paces. So no insulting, moment-ruining finish line pull-ups, no breaking down of water stations and trail markers before everyone has passed them, no abandoning runners to find their own way to the finish line.

Valerio says many races even call themselves “pace inclusive,” but still engage in these demoralizing practices. In pre-GPS days, Valerio sometimes had to meander through the woods, looking for the correct path, since signposts were removed and race worker guides pulled from their stations and sent back to base camp.

“They don’t think that something slower than a 10-minute or an 11-minute mile counts as running, so they’ll leave you,” Valerio says. “I’ve been left behind so many times.”

Promoting inclusivity in running is one of the reasons Valerio has signed up for one of her most ambitious races ever: the lululemon FURTHER initiative. On March 8, the 2024 International Women’s Day, Valerio and nine other women will begin a six-day ultramarathon. There is no set distance, but the aim is to run as far as possible over the course of those six days.

Other FURTHER participants include world record holder Camille Herron, surgeon-turned-professional ultrarunner Stefanie FlippinWomen of Distance podcast host Devon Yanko, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitor Vriko Kwok (a running novice), among various runners from around the globe.

A group of women dressed in black running gear against a peach backdrop.
The lululemon FURTHER runners
Photo: lululemon

The FURTHER initiative also includes a research component, in which lululemon and the Canadian Sports Institute Pacific will study the participants, with the aim of publishing research on how female bodies perform in endurance sports—part of a larger effort to close the research gap in women’s sports performance science.

“I have my personal goal of how many miles I wanna do, [although] that might change over the course of the next nine months,” Valerio says. “But I also just really want to be a beacon for those people that need to see me. And even for those people that don’t ever want to see me running, I need to be a beacon for them too.”

“I also just really want to be a beacon for those people that need to see me. And even for those people that don’t ever want to see me running, I need to be a beacon for them too.” —Mirna Valerio

Valerio is larger bodied, Black, and a mother in her mid-40s. She says that she might not be what people picture when they think “runner,” but she wants to demonstrate that she is what a runner looks like, too. Lululemon is helping to bolster this image by working with Valerio to design a running kit for the race that serves Valerio’s specific needs. They asked her what she needed, and how they could build something better, then designed apparel that actually fit. “I’m not pulling it up. I’m not pushing it down,” she says.

This wasn’t always the case. “I just think about how often in the past I had to wear men’s clothes that didn’t fit appropriately,” Valerio says. “We weren’t seen as serious athletes, so no one was making serious athletic clothing for us in our serious pursuits. But now, it’s been phenomenal working with lululemon. I get to be part of the fit process, the ideation process.”

Valerio faces her share of criticism for not conforming to typical racing standards, whether that’s comments on her body or her pace. But the way running nourishes her body and soul is what keeps her moving. And she hopes she can help others—who might face internal criticism or self-doubt—tap into their inner runner, too.

“It’s really hard to counteract those images and thoughts because that’s all we’ve been showered with,” Valerio says. “We see a very particular image, or an aspirational image, let’s call it, of who runners are, or what pace a runner should run. But we all know that that is just some sort of aspirational ideal that has nothing to do with us. Be your own aspirational ideal.”

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These River-Ready Hiking Sandals Are the Best Way To Stay Supported and Dry On Your Water Adventures This Summer https://www.wellandgood.com/teva-x-parks-project/ Fri, 02 Jun 2023 19:00:48 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1071495 As spring finally melts into summer, it’s likely your itch for outdoor adventure is begging to be scratched. The warmer temps and humidity beckon us to come outside and cool off in the closest water we can find, be it a pond, river, stream, or sea. While we’re surfing and water skiing, paddle boarding and doggy-paddling, however, it’s important to take a beat to nourish nature’s waterways. Otherwise, the Great Outdoors might lose its greatness.

That’s the gist of the Teva x Parks Project Wild Rivers collab, which just hit virtual shelves yesterday, June 1. Inspired by the Colorado River—the lifeblood in crisis behind much of the West’s flora and fauna, not to mention, $1.4 trillion in economic activity in most of the western range of the United States—the capsule collection celebrates the river’s natural splendor and serves as a fashionable reminder to keep our waterways wild and clean. To encourage stewardship, both brands donated $30,000 to the Grand Canyon Conservancy which protects and preserves a part of this esteemed river.

Teva is a brand whose values and love of the outdoors match ours, so we’re excited to partner with them to create an inspiring capsule collection that speaks to their heritage in one of America’s most amazing national parks, the Grand Canyon!” Keith Eshelman, co-founder and CEO of Parks Project, said in a press release. “We hope this collaboration inspires everyone to learn about the importance of habitat restoration in our parks, so we can all together leave it better than we found it.”

The 11-piece collection features graphic T-shirts, bike shorts, hats, a dry bag, and socks, all adorned in a cool, Mattise-looking watery graphic. But the stars of the Teva x Park’s Project collab are arguably the two limited-edition hiking sandals, Teva’s ridiculously durable, water-resistant Hurricane XLT2s. Available in an earthy brown or a bright, summery white (“afterglow”), both pairs sport the fun graphics on the straps and are bound to stand out in a sea of gray, run-of-the-mill water shoes.

Aside just being really freakin’ cute, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 sandals are about as hardy as they come. Made with a comfy yet sturdy EVA footbed and a grippy rubber outsole, they’re perfect for navigating slippery, moss-covered river rocks, stepping over roots, and hanging onto your SUP when waves break. Like most Teva styles, they’re quick-drying, even when they get doused. That’s thanks to the pretty printed straps which are made from a material called Repreve, which is made from recycled polyester yarn. The velcro band makes kicking them on and off quick and easy, and if you’re worried about them getting smelly or mildewy from moisture, don’t—each shoe is treated with Life Natural, a peppermint-based antimicrobial that staves of bacteria from sweat, dirt, and more.

And they’re already selling out, alongside the rest of the capsule collection which is live on both sites. So go ahead and make a “splash” this summer with this water-ready gear. Just remember, when you do, leave it better than you found it.

More river-ready gear from the Teva x Park’s Project collab

Wild Rivers Tank — $34.00

Available sizes: XS-L (select sizes sold out)

As as light and cool as a mountain breeze, the Wild Rivers tank will be your BFF when temps start to soar. This boxy tank top is roomy enough to throw on over a bathing suit, sports bra, or… nothing at all. We won’t judge. It’s made from a heavyweight 100 percent cotton, so if you do decide to go commando underneath, you won’t have to worry about any unmentionables peeking through.

Wild Rivers Pocket Tee — $40.00

Available sizes: XS-XXL

If a T-shirt is more your style, add this pocket tee to your cart. The front is minimalist, plain with only a small graphic on the pocket. The back is where the magic happens, and is splashed with the larger “Keep Rivers Wild” illustration that stand out in blues, browns, and yellows against in the herbaceous green. Business in the front, party in the back.

Wild River Recycled Hiker Short — $60.00

Available sizes: XS-L (select sizes sold out)

Whether you’re trekking over hill and dale or just to the corner store for an afternoon snack, these bike shorts will keep you comfortable and looking stylish. From afar, the all-over graphic illustration kinda looks like camouflage, but look closer and you’ll see it’s actually the Colorado River design. And they’re so stretchy, made from a recycled polyester/spandex blend that’s fabulously flexible. Pair with the matching Wild Rivers Cropped Tank ($50) and you’re good to go.

Wild Rivers Rip Stop River Hat — $40.00

Arguably one of our favorite items from the collab, this sun hat is fashionable and functional. The minimalist graphic around the brim of the hat elevates any outdoor look, while the floppy brim protects your face and eyes from the sun. Don’t worry about it flying off with a gust of wind—the adjustable chin-strap will keep it in place, while the metal eyelets will cool you off.

Wild Rivers Long Sleeve UVB River Tee — $60.00

Available sizes: S-XXL (select sizes sold out)

Yes, this minimalist cotton long-sleeve will keep you warm when the sun goes down, but did you know that’ll it’ll also keep you protected when the sun is up? Turns out, that heavyweight cotton is also rated at UPF50, so your arms and chest will be protected from the sun’s rays while it’s on. That, and the simple, stand-out jacquard collar make adding one to your shopping cart a no-brainer.

Wild Rivers Hip Dry Bag — $65.00

Anyone who hikes, paddles, boats, or enjoys the beach knows the importance of keeping your stuff dry, which is exactly what this precious hip pack will do. This durable, waterproof bag can be submerged in up to three feet of water while still keeping your personal items dry and protected. Simply plop ’em in, roll the top down, and snap the buckles shut. Wear it on your hip while you’re wading or as a cross-body while you’re hiking.

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9 Best High Impact Sports Bras That Will Keep Your Boobs in Place All Workout Long https://www.wellandgood.com/best-high-impact-sports-bras/ Fri, 02 Jun 2023 13:00:38 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1063315 The girls that get it, get it—high intensity workouts and big boobs aren’t exactly a match made in heaven, and shopping for a high impact sports bra can be straight-up exhausting. Poor-fitting straps can cause serious neck pain, and a too-tight band can feel like you’re being sawed in half.

As a 40H, I know the struggles of sports bra shopping all too well and have tried on my fair share of duds. Forget style or comfort; finding one that fits my frame and can keep my boobs from flopping everywhere is already difficult enough. Luckily, innovations in sports bras are ever-changing, and according to bra expert Jené Luciani Sena, Access Daily’s “Bra-blem Solving” segment host and bestselling author of The Bra Book, there’s more bounce-blocking options available than ever before.

9 best high-impact sports bras, at a glance:

What to look for in a high impact sports bra

Moisture-wicking fabric

When picking out a high-impact sports bra, Sena says to avoid cotton at all costs. Since cotton absorbs moisture, it can leave unsightly sweat stains and, more importantly, feel uncomfortable during a high-impact workout. Cotton is also prone to  stretching out after use, meaning your bra won’t retain its shape well after a while.

Instead, opt for lightweight, stretchy, moisture-wicking fabrics and and materials like:

  • Polyester
  • Nylon
  • Bamboo
  • Microfiber
  • Mesh
  • Spandex

Wide shoulder straps

Sena says to stay away from skinny cami-like bra straps. Instead, wide shoulder straps are your new gravity-fighting BFFs. While spaghetti straps might look great under a tank top, they don’t provide the support necessary for a HIIT workout and a sweaty cardio session.

“Don’t go out and buy a yoga bra expecting it to work for running,” adds Sena. “That’s not what it’s designed for!”

Extra support features

If you’re above a size D, keep an eye out for extra support features like adjustable straps, thick bands, and hook-and-eye-closures. Customizable features like these allow you to get the snug-but-breathable fit you’ll want in a sports bra.

For those who love extra boost of classic underwire bras, Sena suggests checking out brands and shops that specialize in bra-making. While some activewear brands make great sports bras (as you’ll see later on in this article!), companies that specialize in bra and lingerie design typically adhere to standard bra measurements, making them easier to shop for.

“A bra company does more fit testing,” adds Sena, who is a fan of Soma’s medium-support sports bras. “You’re gonna get a truer, better fit as opposed to an athletic company.”

Good bounce control

Sena recommends giving your new high impact sports bra the “bounce test” before purchasing. When trying a high-impact sports bra for the first time, jump up and down a few times or mimic the activity you’ll be using it for, whether that be running, yoga, or cycling.

This test will give you a good idea of how it will perform during your actual workout and can stave off buyer’s remorse. A good rule of thumb is if they bounce in the dressing room, they’ll bounce during your workout, too.

Of course, bra shopping is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. While some people might prefer a taped-down, the-girls-are-going-absolutely-nowhere feel, others might be looking for a more gentle lift. “What might be my favorite won’t be your favorite,” adds Sena. “Decide your preference of what style you like and what activity it is that you’re going to use it for!”

With Sena’s expert advice in mind, I set out to compile a list of *the* best high impact sports bras on the market today. Ahead are nine of the best-rated, top-reviewed high-impact sports bras on the market today, including seven styles that our editorial team can’t get enough of.

9 best high impact sports bras

Best overall

SheFit High Impact Ultimate Sports Bra — $75.00

Sizes: XS-6 Luxe, or cups A-I

Available in 11 different colors and an incredibly wide range of sizes, there’s a SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra for almost everyone. One of Sena’s favorites, this high-impact sports bra delivers second-to-none compression and support during HIIT workouts, treadmill sprints, kickboxing classes, and more. Equipped with a patented “zip, cinch, lift” adjustability, this bra comes with velcro straps and a velcro band for 100-percent customizable wear. Bonus: The zip-front closure allows you to take it off easily after a super sweaty workout.

“My daughter has struggled to find the right sports bra and now she finally has,” reviewer Yuliana C. shares. “Thank you so much for this product and ingenious design. This has changed her life.”

Colors: 11

Pros:

  • Wide elastic band offers comfort and support
  • Thick, heavy-duty adjustable straps
  • Zip-front closure for extra hold
  • Removable padding
  • 11 colors

Cons:

  • Unique sizing method might make it difficult to find your size

Best for larger busts

Syrokan, Women's Sports Bra — $28.00

Sizes: 32B-44F, with H cups available in select band sizes

Take it from yours truly: This $28 bra from Amazon is a win for bigger-busted babes. Last year I wrote an in-depth review of the Syrokan Women’s Sports Bra as a size 40H customer, singing its praises as an affordable high impact sports bra option. It comes with thick velcro straps that you can easily adjust mid-workout that make it excellent for larger chests, plus a heavy-duty longline band that mimics the support of an underwire bra.

The material is super thick but moisture-wicking and proves plenty of nipple coverage. It comes in a huge variety of colors (19 to be exact) and fits bust sizes from a 32B all the way to a 44F, with H cups sprinkled in across a few band sizes. For the amount of support and extra features, you’d be hard-pressed to find a comparable sports bra at the same price point.

Colors: 19

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Versatile color options
  • Scoop neck helps keep natural bust shape
  • Hook-and-eye closures for extra support
  • Adjustable straps

Cons:

  • The velcro straps can weaken over time
  • H-cup only available in small number of band sizes

Best under $50

Athleta, Ultimate Sports Bra — $49.00

Sizes: XXS-XXL in eithe A-C or D-DD+

Well+Good associate commerce editor Francesca Krempa,knows a thing or two about the struggle of finding the perfect sports bra. In 2018, she had a “life-changing” breast reduction and went from a 34DD+ to a 34B-C to alleviate back pain, general discomfort, and to boost her self esteem.

While significantly smaller in the chest, she knows the importance of a supportive, comfortable, and flattering sports bra, which is why she swears by the Athleta Ultimate Sports bra for ticking off all three of those boxes without breaking the bank. “You can spend a lot of money on a bra, but here’s the thing—a hefty price tag doesn’t automatically means it’s good,” she says. “For $49, Athleta’s Ultimate Sports Bra gets the job done. I wear the A-C and find it to be extremely supportive—the racerback straps keep me nice and strapped in when I’m on the elliptical or doing a HIIT workout. I sweat a lot and really love the opening in the back that provides a teensy bit more airflow than other bras I’ve tried.”

Bonus: The materials are largely sustainable. The bulk of is made from a recycled nylon that’s sweat-wicking, compressive, and quick-drying. A touch of lycra adds some stretch, too.

Colors: 5

 

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Made from recycled performance materials
  • Thick, racerback design for support
  • Open back for added airflow

Cons:

  • Generic A-C, and D-DD+ sizing might not be as custom as some shoppers like

Best high-neck sports bra

Gymshark, High Neck High Support Sports Bra — $54.00

Sizes: 32B-40E/F, 42D/DD

For those who want a little extra cleavage coverage, the Gymshark High Neck High Support Sports Bra is hard to beat in function and modesty. This open racerback bra comes equipped with soft, adjustable straps and a hook-and-eye closure band for a custom fit.

This bra also features dual-cup sizing, meaning it’ll still fit properly if your bust fluctuates during (and after) your period. Well+Good Senior Fitness Editor Jennifer Heimlich says this sports bra helped her navigate her changing body as a new mom and provides gentle-yet-effective support for postpartum breasts.

“I first tried Gymshark’s High Neck High Support Sports Bra when I was just a few weeks postpartum and starting to run again—with boobs that were bigger and bouncier than they’d ever been in my life,” says Heimlich. “The structured high neck gently keeps any bouncing in check without having to squish everything uncomfortably. My boobs have since shrunk a size or so, but I’m still loving it; I ran the London Marathon in it a couple weeks ago and I didn’t have to think about my boobs once—nor did I get any chafing along the bra line, a true miracle!”

Colors: 3

Pros:

  • Thick, soft straps
  • Modest high-neck design
  • Longline silhouette
  • Hook-and-eye closure for extra support
  • Can be worn solo as a workout top

Cons:

  • Not offered in cup sizes above an F
  • Limited color options

Best for running:

Knix, Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra — $89.00

Sizes: 32A-42H

When it comes to running bras, the Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra from Knix goes the extra mile. Decked out with adjustable straps, an adjustable band, AND a front zipper, this heavy-duty sports bra is a pro at keeping things in place.

As a new owner of the Knix Catalyst bra, I can wholeheartedly say that this bra is an excellent option for running and absolutely passes Sena’s “bounce test.” The material is super duper soft and sleek, and since it’s practically seamless, I feel comfortable wearing it under tight-fitting workout tanks.

Over 2000 positive reviews echo my sentiments, sharing how great the Catalyst bra is at keeping the girls in place.

Reviewer Claudia B. puts it best: “It keeps the girls in line, what more can I say?”

Colors: 15

Pros:

  • Versatile color options
  • Seamless
  • Thick, adjustable straps
  • Hook-and-eye closure for added support

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • Fits super tight at first, then adjusts with more wear

Best medium-impact sports bra

Outdoor Voices, Doing Things Bra — $58.00

Sizes: XXS-XXXL

Sometimes you want support without feeling like you’re being strapped into a Formula One race car. The Doing Things Bra from Outdoor Voices provides exactly that: decent support for jogs and pilates classes, sans intricate pulley system.

This bra comes with a flattering scoop neck and a breathable, super-flexible mesh racerback. While not specifically marketed as a high-impact sports bra, Well+Good writer Danielle Calma says it offers plenty of support without feeling restrictive.

“I’ve owned this sports bra for several years, and it continues to be the one I reach for when I run or do HIIT,” says Calma. “Like a compression bra, it sits high on my chest, offering both the coverage and support I need to help me power through my activities. It’s stretchy enough to be comfortable, but it hasn’t lost its supportive qualities (even after years), keeping its original form through heavy wear and many washes.”

The downside is, it doesn’t come in specific cup or band sizes. But if you’re looking for a comfy, flexible bra for “doing things” in, it gets the job done.

Colors: 4

Pros:

  • Lightweight, compressive fabric
  • Mesh sides
  • Removable padding
  • Sweat-wicking, flexible material

Cons:

  • Sizes tend to sell out quickly
  • Best for medium-impact workouts
  • Not adjustable—doesn’t come in specific cup/band sizes

Best underwire sports bra:

Freya, Sonic High Impact Underwire Sports Bra — $72.00

Sizes: 28D-40G

While many people hate the poke-y feeling of underwire bras, some of us actually prefer the scooping lift they provide. The Freya Sonic High Impact Underwire Sports Bra delivers the support of a traditional bra with the shape and flexibility of a high impact sports bra.

This bra comes with a four-column, four-row hook-and-eye closure and two adjustable straps that can be transformed into a racerback. Reviewer Diane K. writes, “I am a 54 year old woman, so my breast needs support. I have looked for YEARS for a bra that held me up and felt good! I will definitely continue buying these bras!”

Available in 20 colors and a wide range of sizes, you’re sure to find one that fits you—and your personal style—best.

Colors: 20

Pros:

  • Versatile color options
  • No “uniboob” effect
  • Thick, adjustable straps
  • 4-column hook-and-eye closure for extra support
  • Comfortable underwire that provides lift without poking or prodding

Cons:

  • Not available in sizes above a 40G
  • Reviewers say the metal may “squeak” when you move

Best for smaller busts

Reebok, Lux Skinny Strap Sports Bra — $54.00

Sizes: XXS-XL

Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise: Smaller chests need support, too! While A-cups might get away with wearing medium- or low-impact sports bras on a run, HIIT workouts that require jumping are best done while wearing a high-impact bra. Unfortunately, some high impact sports bras suck the chest in *to*o much for smaller chest sizes.

W+G commerce writer Kayla Hui swears by Reebok’s Skinny Strap Sports Bra for smaller chested babes. “I know this bra says medium support but as someone who falls within the itty bitty titty committee, I find it supportive enough for HIIT, running, and jump roping,” she says. “The polyester and elastane blend renders this bra compressive with just enough give, and it has criss-cross adjustable straps for extra support. Also, it doesn’t have any underwire so it doesn’t dig into my skin during high-intensity exercises.”

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Racerback adjustable straps for support
  • Open back design for airflow
  • Snug band offers more support and lift
  • No underwire

Cons:

  • No custom band/cup sizes
  • Skinny straps might not be supportive enough for some folks

Best front-closure sports bra:

Lululemon, Enlite Front-Zip Sports Bra — $108.00

Sizes: 34A-40D

There’s a few reasons why someone might want to choose a bra that opens in the front rather than the back. Securing a hook-and-eye closure behind your back can be difficult for anyone, but especially for plus-sized folks or those who struggle with back pain. Front-closure bras also allow easy nipple access for breastfeeding moms. Plus, zippers are kinda fun!

Whatever your reasons may be, Krempa says Lululemon’s Enlite Front Zip Sports Bra is a dream come true for zip-front bras. “Honestly, most zip-front bras are kinda matronly and not all that cute—except for this bad boy,” she says. “Between the bright, summery colors, the soft, seamless fabric, and the cool open-back design, this is not your grandma’s beige zip-up bra. This one is cool. And it’s specifically designed for running, so you know it’s supportive.”

A top-to-bottom front closure that makes putting it on and taking it off a breeze. It offers maximum support and hold without poky underwires, and features a cut-out racerback that maximizes support without making you sweat. And that soft seamless fabric? It’s also a game-changer for sweaty situations and dries quickly without chafing or pooling. Albeit expensive, it’s worth every penny in Krempa’s opinion.

Pros:

  • Soft yet supportive
  • Front-zip makes for easy on-and-off
  • Designed for running
  • Cutouts in the back allow for airflow

Cons:

  • Not adjustable
  • Sizes only available through 40D
  • Pricey
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22 Flowy, Light, and Absolutely Gorgeous Wedding Guest Dresses Perfect for Summer Ceremonies https://www.wellandgood.com/summer-wedding-guest-dresses/ Fri, 02 Jun 2023 01:00:38 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1071269 Wedding season is officially here, which means it’s time to dust off your dancing shoes and get ready to celebrate in style. The best wedding guest dresses all have a few important things in common: they fit the dress code, they never upstage the bride, and they make you feel your best. But finding the perfect option is easier said than done.

From breathtaking ball gowns to whimsical floral frocks, there’s a seemingly endless array of dresses to wear to a wedding, but these 22 are a cut above the rest.

What should a guest wear to a summer wedding?

Guests should first and foremost adhere to any dress code guidelines the couple provides. For example, if the dress code is white tie, black tie, black tie optional, or formal, you’ll need to lean a bit more fancy. Think: floor length gown or an elevated cocktail dress or pantsuit. If the couple requests cocktail or semi-formal, you can skip the ultra dressy gowns and lean more towards midis, knee-length dresses, or maxis that don’t read as true gowns.

When it comes to summer weddings, you may also find yourself dealing with less common dress codes that are more tailored to the venue. If the couple uses words like “garden party, tropical, beach, or outdoor” in their dress code request, use that as inspiration to find the best wedding guest dress for you. These more niche styles tend to lean less formal than the traditional dress codes, but that doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style. Simply consider colors or patterns that fit the theme, and don’t feel the need to purchase something that feels fussy or too formal for an outdoor affair.

Wedding attire for women can be confusing, but as long as you stick to the theme, keep the dress code in mind, and choose a look that aligns with your comfort level, you’ll be well on your way to being one of the best dressed guests of the night.

What color guest dress is best for summer wedding?

Summer weddings offer a ton of flexibility when it comes to what color dress guests can wear. Vibrant summery shades, pretty pastels, and trustworthy neutrals are all in play, but you may want to avoid deep jewel tones that tend to work better for fall or winter weddings.

There is one color to avoid at all costs, though. White dresses should be reserved for brides unless the couple specifically requests that guests arrive in the snowy shade. It’s best to avoid any color that can read too white in person or in photos as well. So, skip shades like champagne, ivory, super pale pink and nudes.

Red is another color that you may want to avoid, but it really depends on the couple. Some people believe it’s such an eye-catching shade that it could steal attention away from the bride, while others believe (or are aware of) an old wives tale that wearing red to a wedding indicates that you slept with the groom (this is obviously outdated, so do what you will with that information). There are also cultures that reserve the color red for brides. That said, plenty of couples are fine with guests wearing red, so if you’re planning to go that route just make sure to clear it with them first.

You may also want to avoid wearing the same color as the bridesmaids, simply because it may confuse other guests (but always check with the bride or groom—these certainly aren’t hard and fast rules).

22 best summer wedding guest dresses

1. Abercrombie & Fitch, Emerson Ruched Strapless Midi Dress — $120.00

With a Cinderella blue (or black, or pink) color, and simple structure, this dress from Abercrombie & Fitch is a great fit for summer weddings. And because it’s strapless and satin, it’s an ideal option for outdoor affairs. If you prefer straps for support, this dress does come with some you can easily attach. It’s a classic fit that gives you room to breathe—and dance.

Return policy: You’ll be able to return the dress within 30 days for a full refund if you find it isn’t the right wedding guest dress for you.

Available sizes: XXS-XL

Colors: 3

2. By Anthropologie, Ruffled Peplum Halter Dress — $170.00

Delicate ruffle details, a modest slit, and a shirred back are just a few of the elements that make this Anthropologie dress a great option for summer weddings. It’s also crafted from a “only-at-Anthro” fabric that has sculpting properties while remaining stretchy, so you won’t sacrifice any comfort for the sleek silhouette.

Return policy: It can be returned for a full refund within 30 days (as long as it is unworn with tags!).

Available sizes: XXS-XL

Colors: 1

3. The Drop, Women's Scarlett Cowl-Neck Slip Dress — $60.00

This budget-friendly Amazon find is an ideal option for wedding guests who want to try one of this summer’s trendiest silhouettes without breaking the bank. With a simple cowl neck and satiny fabric, this slip dress is elevated enough for a dressier occasion but comfortable enough to wear for an extended amount of time. Plus, the colorful patterns will allow you stand out from the pack in wedding photos.

Return policy: Amazon Prime members can even use the “try before you buy” option to test the dress for free for seven days before making their purchase.

Available sizes: XXS-5X

Colors: 4

4. Banana Republic, Isa Cotton-Silk Dress — $190.00

If you’re looking for a dress that feels dressy without veering too formal, this Banana Republic find is a great option. The full skirt and small under-bust cutout add visual interest, while the summery pattern keeps things from feeling too fancy. While we love the lilac-floral print, the geometric option is also beautiful.

Return policy: It can be returned within 30 days.

Available sizes: 0-20

Colors: 2

5. Saylor, Leyna Mini Dress — $264.00

This mini dress screams “summer!” thanks to its sunshine yellow shade and fun fringe detailing (it’s giving 2023 flapper girl, which is so fun). The high neck also balances out the short length, so it doesn’t feel too revealing for a wedding.

Return policy: it’s available for a full refund within 60 days, and eligible for exchange within 90 days, as long as it’s unworn.

Available sizes: XS-L

Colors: 1

6. Express, Floral V-Neck Pleated Cross Back Maxi Dress — $128.00

A flowy maxi dress has long been a go-to option for a beach or garden wedding, but this Express option keeps things interesting thanks to its floral print and pleats. Plus, the color palette reminds us of strawberry cake with icing, and what could be sweeter?

Return policy: Express gives you 60 days for a full refund if you need to return it.

Available sizes: XS-XL

Colors: 1

7. Reformation, Casette Silk Dress — $328.00

Reformation is one of the most popular stores for wedding guest dress shopping, and for good reason. The retailer sells a variety of occasion-worthy dresses in a beautiful array of patterns, colors, and styles. This high neck option also features an open back and shirred sides, so it doesn’t feel too modest.

It’s available in this pretty blue floral, as well as a pink floral, black, green, purple, and sand (which feels a bit too bridal to wear to a wedding though).

Return policy: It can be returned within 30 days of the shipping date.

Available sizes: 0-12

Colors: 6

8. Eloquii, Eyelet Tie Front Maxi Dress — $140.00

Eyelet is a famously summer-friendly fabric thanks to its breathability, which means you won’t get overheated in this long-sleeve dress even if you spend the whole night on the dance floor.

Return policy: Eloquii accepts new and unworn returns up to 30 days after the date of receipt.

Available sizes: 14-24

Colors: 1

9. Norma Kamali, Diana Dress — $205.00

Lavender is quickly establishing itself as the color of summer 2023—and possibly the whole year—so why not make a splash by wearing it to a summer wedding. It’s also such a calming color that looks good on everyone. Norma Kamali’s Diana Dress has been a wedding guest favorite for a few seasons as it’s comfortable, flattering, and easy to travel with, but this purple update really takes it up a notch. (Our senior beauty editor, Zoe Weiner, has written about how it was her wedding dress favorite, and she called it the “leggings equivalent of a gown.”

Return policy: Net-a-Porter gives you 28 days to request or initiate an exchange or return.

Available sizes: XXS-XL

Colors: 1

10. Free People, Oasis Printed Midi Dress — $168.00

Don’t let the model’s sneakers fool you, this Free People dress is perfectly suited for summer weddings. It’s flowy, comfortable, and can easily be dressed up or down, making it a great choice for low-key weddings. And since it’s so fashionably versatile, you can rewear it to brunch with some sneaks.

Return policy: It’s eligible for full refunds within 30 days of delivery and store credit after 30 days.

Available sizes: XS-XL

Colors: 10+

11. Ganni, Smocked Satin Maxi Dress — $475.00

Stand out from the pack with this statement dress from Ganni. It features a textured bodice, contrasting black beads, and flattering silhouette that will leave other guests green with envy.

Return policy: It’s eligible for return within 28 days of purchase.

Available sizes: 0-14

Colors: 1

12. H&M, Asymmetric-hem Slip Dress — $65.00

With an almost marble-inspired pattern, this lime green dress is a great alternative if you want a printed dress, but don’t love florals. It’s also budget-friendly, which we appreciate (given so many formal dresses are only worn once!).

Return policy: It’s eligible for returns up to 30 days after purchase.

Available sizes: XS-XXL

Colors: 1

13. Hill House Home, The Matilda Dress — $175.00

Hill House Home may be best known for its famous nap dress, but that doesn’t mean you should sleep on their occasion dresses. This option evokes the same free flowing feel as the nap dress, but with more structure.

Return policy: The return window is a bit smaller than usual—you’ll only have 15 days from delivery to decide if it’s a keeper.

Available sizes: XXS-XXL

Colors: 5+

14. Mac Duggal Embroidered Ruched Flutter Sleeve A Line Dress — $498.00

Black may not be the most obvious choice for a summer wedding, but when it’s combined with a skirt covered in embroidered flowers, the moody shade becomes perfectly acceptable for formal warm-weather occasions.

Return policy: It’s returnable for 30 days after purchase.

Available sizes: 0-16

Colors: 1

15. Lulu’s, Dreamy Date Magenta Surplice Midi Dress — $65.00

If you’re looking for something a little bit more form fitting, consider this sleek dress from Lulus. It’s crafted from a stretch knit and features adjustable straps that help you find the perfect fit and is available in 10 different shades.

Return policy: Lulu’s accepts returns for 30 days.

Available sizes: XS-XL

Colors: 10

16. ASTR The Label, Santorini One Shoulder Midi Dress — $138.00

With its soft, summery color palette, asymmetrical hem, and one shoulder silhouette, this dress ticks all of the boxes for a great summer wedding guest outfit.

Return policy: ASTR The Label accepts returns within 28 days of purchase.

Available sizes: XS-XL

Colors: 1

17. Farm Rio, Green Dewdrop Floral Midi Dress — $235.00

This Farm Rio find is a great option if you’re looking for a dress that you can rewear throughout the summer season. When paired with heels and statement jewelry, it makes for a beautiful wedding guest look (get ready to stand out—nobody is losing you in a crowd), but you can easily dress it down with flat sandals as well.

Return policy: You can return it unworn within 30 days for a full refund.

Available sizes: XXS-XL

Colors: 1

18. X REVOLVE, Times Dress — $279.00

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind neckline, look no further than this statement dress from Revolve. It’s also available in blue, but this bold pink hue is much better suited to summer weddings.

Return policy: Revolve accepts returns within 60 days for a full refund and 90 days for an exchange.

Available sizes: SX-XL

Colors: 2

19. House of CB, Costanza Light Jade Maxi Dress — $255.00

Summer weddings may call to mind flowy, floaty dresses, but there’s always a place for a good fitted option as well. This dress screams “glamour” thanks to its sleek, vintage construction, corset-style bust, and stain finish, making it an ideal choice for a dressier wedding.

Return policy: House of CB only accepts returns that are shipped within 14 days of delivery.

Available sizes: XS-L+

Colors: 1

20. Zara, Pleated Ruffled Slip Dress — $70.00

Another budget-friendly find, this purple Zara dress is the perfect marriage of dressy and comfortable. The relaxed bust and pleated skirt make this something you can easily wear all night without feeling restricted, while the bright color and unexpected ruffles feel perfectly suited for a big event.

Return policy: returns are possible within 30 days of purchase.

Available sizes: XS-XL

Colors: 1

21. ASOS DESIGN, Cami Embellished Mini Dress — $245.00

Who says you have to reserve metallics for winter weddings? With its summary silhouette and open back, this beaded dress is fit for a swanky summer wedding.

Return policy: ASOS accepts returns within 28 days of delivery.

Available sizes: 0-14

Colors: 1

jcrew
22. J.Crew Collection, Taffeta Side-Cutout Midi Dress — $350.00

Neon may seem like a risky choice for a wedding, but the classic construction and modest shape of this J.Crew dress tone the bright color down enough to not steal the spotlight. Plus, if you like the fit, it also comes in a pretty floral option.

Return policy: It’s eligible for returns up to 30 days after purchase.

Available sizes: 00-24

Colors: 2

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The Symbolism and Meaning of a Pearl, June’s Understated and Elegant Birthstone https://www.wellandgood.com/june-birthstone/ Tue, 30 May 2023 23:02:05 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1064767 The birthstone most commonly associated with the month of June is the understated and elegant pearl. Unlike the other birthstones, it comes from a living organism, making it unique unto itself. Generally speaking, the June birthstone is an energetic reminder that beauty and wisdom can be gleaned from experience, and it can help provide calm and enhance one’s intuitive knowing during times of strife.

According to multiplayer modality healing practitioner and Reiki master Laura Ellis, a crystal expert with more than 15 years of experience, it can also help ease the transition from Gemini to Cancer season. “Incorporating this gem during the month of June will help while moving through erratic heady Gemini season and the start of emotionally sensitive Cancer season,” which astrologer Cristina Farella previously told Well+Good can “prompt a lot of looking within.”

Properties of the June birthstone: the pure, wise, and elegant pearl

June birthstone
Photo: W+G Creative
  • Birthstone color: Varied
  • Element: Metal
  • Planet: Moon
  • Chakra: Crown chakra
  • Origin: Varied

Most gems form in the earth’s interior realms by way of intense pressure and blistering heat. Pearls, however, are produced by mollusks, and they are essentially a byproduct that occurs when an irritant, like a grain of sand or a parasite, enters a mollusk’s mantle. As a means of protection, the mollusk will secrete calcium carbonate called nacre or mother of pearl—the same iridescent substance that forms its shell. It encases the intruder in layer upon layer of nacre, and over the course of several years, this can yield a lustrous pearl.

As natural pearls are typically hard to come by, people have taken to creating cultured pearls, which involves methods that mimic the process that happens in nature. According to the Gemological Institute of America, there are four common types of cultured pearls, which are all sourced from various parts of the world, including China, Japan, Australia, Tahiti, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Pearls can also come in a range of colors, though they are commonly associated with white or cream hues—in any case, they will always be marked by an iridescent sheen.

Birthstone meaning and symbolism of pearl

Pearls have been thought to have energetic properties since ancient times. Greek mythology believed that pearls were shed by Aphrodite, symbolizing love and femininity. In Chinese tradition, pearls were associated with wisdom, spiritual energy, and power, while Western cultures have long regarded pearls as a symbol of modesty and purity.

“A pearl reminds us that beautiful things can come out of discomfort.” —Laura Ellis, multiplayer modality healing practitioner, and Reiki master

Today, pearls continue to retain their ineffable allure—if not for their iridescent beauty, then for what they’ve come to symbolize. “A pearl reminds us that beautiful things can come out of discomfort,” says Ellis, calling to mind the years-long process it takes for a mollusk to create a pearl. She says they are also helpful for calming the stress and negativity that might arise, providing you with a “nurturing, loving energy” to buoy you in times of strife. According to Mariah K. Lyons, founder of ASTARA, Reiki master, and crystal healer, the gem also serves as an energetic reminder that “pearls of wisdom” can be gleaned from experience.

June-born Geminis can harness the energetic powers of the pearl, says Lyons, who just so happens to be a Gemini herself. Quick, charismatic, and clever, “they are intuitive communicators who can translate higher-concept ideas into tangible concepts,” she says, a notable skill that is key among Gemini’s traits. “The pearl helps Gemini translate, communicate, and emanate the wisdom they have gleaned from their life experiences and to share that with others, and it also helps Gemini process information that they are receiving intuitively and in their own intellectual pursuits.”

“Pearls also have an association with the moon and the different phases of the feminine that women go through different phases that women go through in their life, but also biologically in their life,” says Lyons. In astrology, the moon is Cancer’s ruling planet. A feminine force that emanates emotional, introspective, and empathetic energy, the moon is reflective of many of Cancer’s personality traits. “We often think of Cancer as the sign of the mother. It is very nurturing and sensitive, and as a water sign, it is highly intuitive,” says Lyons, and the pearl can bring out Cancer’s full feminine and intuitive abilities. “It helps to enhance their healing, nurturing, and mothering abilities, whether they are mothering a business, mothering plants, mothering children, helping birth forth different creations in the world,” she says.

Since pearls can help one glean information and tap into their intuitive knowing, they are also typically associated with the crown chakra, says Lyons. Known in Sanskrit as the Sahasrara or the “thousand petals lotus chakra,” it is the center of enlightenment, “connecting you to your soul, higher self, purpose, the universe, source, and the divine,” Reiki practitioner Serena Poon previously told Well+Good.

Another thing that sets pearls apart from other birthstones are their healing properties. “In Chinese medicine, they’ve been used for thousands of years,” says integrative medicine and crystal expert, Elizabeth Trattner, AP, DOM, a licensed acupuncturist trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine and the owner of wellness center The Helia House. “They can be taken orally for their mineral and amino acid profile, and they can be used topically to reduce scarring,” she says, citing one study conducted in 2021 that confirms the gem’s benefits.

Does June have more than one birthstone?

According to the Jewelers of America’s standardized birthstone list, alexandrite and moonstone are also listed as June birthstones, but pearl is thought of as the “main” one. “Alexandrite is a very rare stone—much rarer than diamonds—found in Brazil, Russia, Sri Lanka, and Africa,” says Ellis, adding that “it’s dichroic, which means it changes colors depending on the light source; it is green in natural light and turns red in artificial light.” According to Ellis, it’s said to promote physical and spiritual balance, bring joy and lucky, and help one to accept and embrace change.

Moonstone is a feldspar mineral that comes in a range of hues, from clear to colorless and white streaked with a metallic blue, silver, or white iridescence that resemble moonbeams. It serves an energetic reminder of purposefulness. “From more mindful decisions day-to-day to bigger life changes, this crystal offers you support and guidance to help you live a purposeful life,” crystal expert Heather Askinosie, the co-founder of Energy Muse, previously told Well+Good. People born under Gemini and Cancer in particular can benefit from moonstone, she says, as “both Gemini and Cancer signs tend to have a strong drive to connect with their purpose.”

What are birthstones?

Birthstones are gemstones that represent a person’s birth month or zodiac sign. Their origins are believed to trace back to biblical times, and the first-century historian Flavius Josephus associated the 12 gemstones on Aaron’s breastplate in the Book of Exodus with the months of the year and the 12 zodiac signs. However, the custom of wearing an individual gem per month didn’t begin until around the 15th or 16th century in Germany or Poland. Birthstones are also found to have origins in Eastern Culture. The Ratna Pariksha, a fifth-century Hindu text, linked specific gems to deities, celestial bodies, and days of the week, while Vedic astrologers recommend certain gems to individuals based on their astrological birth chart.

In 1912, the American Council Association of Jewelers (which is currently known as the Jewelers of America) created a standardized list of birthstones in the United States. This list was updated by the Jewelry Industry Council of America and later by The American Gem Trade Association to include new types of birthstones for certain months of the year.

An overview of the birthstones for every month of the year

Want to pick a crystal that corresponds to your birth month? Here’s a quick overview of the birthstones for every month of the year:

  • January Birthstone: Garnet
  • February Birthstone: Amethyst
  • March Birthstone: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
  • April Birthstone: Diamond
  • May Birthstone: Emerald
  • June Birthstone: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
  • July Birthstone: Ruby
  • August Birthstone: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
  • September Birthstone: Sapphire
  • October Birthstone: Opal and Tourmaline
  • November Birthstone: Topaz and Citrine
  • December Birthstone: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon

Frequently asked questions about the June birthstone

What is the true birthstone for June?

There are three June birthstones—pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone—but pearl is considered as the traditional birthstone of the month.

What does the June birthstone represent?

Pearl can represent several things. In Chinese tradition, they were symbolic of wisdom, spiritual energy, and power, while they were associated with purity and modesty in Western cultures. Pearls have also been associated with the moon, which in astrology, is considered a feminine force with a nurturing energy.

What are Gemini’s birthstones?

June-born Geminis have three birthstones—namely, pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. Geminis born in May have emerald as their birthstone.

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The 17 Best Dresses With Pockets (Yes, Pockets!) That Let You Stash Your Stuff in Style https://www.wellandgood.com/best-dresses-with-pockets/ Tue, 30 May 2023 22:00:50 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1069743 What’s one statement that instantly illustrates just how fantastic a garment is? “It has pockets!” While shorts, skirts, and even shirts have long featured places to store lip balm, cash, phones, and other trinkets, it’s taken dresses a little while to catch on. We’re glad they finally did, though, because dresses with pockets rule. 

Nowadays, you can find such fabulous frocks for every style, budget, and occasion. From casual, do-it-all T-shirt dresses and flowy maxis you can throw on in a pinch, to formal gowns and bridesmaids dresses (yes, your wedding party can skip the handbags!), there’s no shortage of dresses with pockets anymore. While more variety is a good thing, it can be overwhelming to decide which dresses are worth stashing your stuff in, and which are worth skipping altogether.

Fear not—we’ve found the best dresses with pockets on the internet that’ll have you going hands-free all summer long in. Skip the purse and just wear these gorgeous garbs instead.

The best dresses with pockets for stashing all your stuff

Best do-it-all dress

Athleta Arrival Dress with pockets
Athleta, Arrival Dress — $119.00

Available sizes: XXS-3XL in regular, tall, and petite lengths

The perfect, do-it-all dress has arrived—literally. The Arrival Dress from Athleta ticks off all our boxes in terms of comfort, style, and function, rocketing it to top of our list as a go-to, do-anything frock. Made from a recycled polyester/spandex blend, it’s slightly stretchy and totally breathable, ideal for popping on when you don’t feel like picking out an outfit (or worse, wearing pants). Dress it up with a heel, dress it down with a sneaker, or rock it with a sandal—it can really do it all.

Colors: 2

Material: 86% recycled polyester/14% spandex

Pros: 

  • Versatile length
  • Inclusive size range
  • Recycled materials
  • Light and breezy

Cons: 

  • Only two colors

Best splurge

brochu walker havana mini dress with pockets
Brochu Walker, The Havana Mini Dress — $298.00

Available sizes: XS-L

There are a lot of expensive dresses out there with pockets (more than you think, tbh), but it’s Brochu Walker’s Havana Mini Dress that’s worth every penny. First, it’s adorable, stitched in a tiered, relaxed design that’s roomy, breezy, and fun. Of course, it has pockets, as well as a button-up design that you can open or close to your liking, puff sleeves, and a chic collar. Considering its high-quality design, luxurious feel, and versatile style, we think it’s worth every penny.

Colors: 4

Material: 65% polyester, 35% cotton

Pros: 

  • Cute and versatile
  • Breezy and relaxed
  • Button-up v-neck for custom wear

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Select colors available for pre-order only (ships June 15)

Best on Amazon

Merokeety, Summer Striped T-Shirt Dress — $36.00

Available sizes: S-XL

Looking for a super casual T-shirt dress that you can throw on before heading out on a Target run or happy hour? This Amazon find is a fan-fave among more than 17,000 shoppers. Where many T-shirt dresses don’t offer much in terms of shaping, this tie-waist silhouette does. It also means that you can wear it at various sizes, so it’s an especially great option for expecting moms.

Colors: 30

Material: 65% rayon, 35% polyester

 

Pros: 

  • Affordable
  • Versatile length and design
  • Highly reviewed
  • 30+ colors and patterns

Cons:

  • Unsustainable materials
  • Hand-wash only

Best linen

AF Linen Shift Dress with pockets
Abercrombie & Fitch, Linen Blend Wide-Strap Mini Dress — $70.00

Available sizes: XXS-XXL in regular, tall, and petite lengths

Ever since first slipping into this dress, I’ve been dreaming of adding more colors to my closet. The relaxed, shift linen dress has wide straps and a roomy silhouette that looks casual on its own but could easily be dressed up with a sheer button-down layered underneath. It’s also worth mentioning that despite the relaxed design, the pockets on this dress remain sturdy even when filled with heavier objects like my phone. If you’re after a linen-y coastal grandma summer, look no further than this frock.

Materials: 100% cotton

Colors: 8

 

Pros: 

  • Relaxed silhouette
  • Versatile colors
  • Inclusive sizing
  • Breezy, natural material

Cons:

  • The chest runs slightly large—consider sizing down

Best cotton

Hill house Home Ophelia Dress with pockets
Hill House Home, The Ophelia Dress — $175.00

Available sizes: XXS-XXL

The Hill House Home Ophelia Dress is as classic as it gets in terms of a feminine silhouette. It’s lightweight, breathable, and body-hugging in all the right places while looking like something straight off the set of Bridgerton. That said, I find that it runs a tad small. I own the Hill House Home Nap Dress in an XL, which is admittedly too roomy. As such, I sized down to a large for the Ophelia dress but would have been better off with an XL after all.

Colors: 5

Materials: 100% cotton

Pros: 

  • Versatile length
  • Slightly stretchy
  • Made with natural materials
  • Comfy and breathable

Cons: 

  • Expensive
  • Select sizes/colors sold out
  • Runs slightly small—consider sizing up

Best corduroy

Show Me Your Mumu, Outlaw Dress — $174.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

Whether you’re headed to Nashville or a country concert, or you simply prefer a more form-fitting silhouette, the Show Me Your Mumu Outlaw Dress is an adorable option. Designed with deep, cargo-inspired pockets and a built-in belt, this corduroy dress (or denim—there’s a denim option, too) is too cute to overlook. Just keep in mind that since it’s so snug, it will likely show whatever you put in your pockets.

Colors: 5

Materials: 98% cotton, 2% spandex

Pros: 

  • Form-fitting, zip-up design
  • Trendy detailing
  • Sold in denim and corduroy options
  • Built-in belt

Cons: 

  • Expensive
  • Select colors/sizes sold out
  • Runs small—consider sizing up

Best exercise dress

Girlfriend Collective, Paloma Raceback Dress, best exercise dresses
Girlfriend Collective, Paloma Dress — $88.00

Available sizes: XXS-6XL

Colors: 4

Of all the exercise dresses, Girlfriend Collective’s stands out for its inclusive sizing, sustainable fabric, and wear-everywhere look and feel. True to the brand’s eco-friendly ethos, it’s made from polyester sourced from recycled water bottles—21 to be exact. This doesn’t mean it feels plastick-y—a blend of spandex makes it buttery smooth, sculpting, and compressive enough without being restrictive, an ideal ‘fit for everything from pilates to picking up the kids from school.

Materials: 79% recycled polyester, 21% spandex

Pros: 

  • Inclusive sizing
  • Sustainably and ethically made
  • Built-in unitard with extra support at the bust
  • Versatile and comfortably
  • Affordable

Cons: 

  • Slightly snug and compressive/not relaxed

Best midi

FP Ruffle It Up Midi Dress with pockets
Free People, Ruffle It Up Midi Dress — $108.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

I’d had this statement ruffle midi dress in my cart for months before finally getting my hands on it. While the breezy cotton silhouette runs slightly large, the bow-tie back makes it easy to tailor to your figure. Plus, the ruffles are such a vibe. I want it in every color now.

Colors: 9

Materials: 100% cotton

Pros: 

  • Versatile length and shoulders (can be worn up or shoulder)
  • Stretchy, smocked waist
  • Thoughtful ruffle details and bow-tie waist
  • Flowy and breathable
  • Versatile color options

Cons: 

  • Runs slightly large—consider sizing down

Best smocked

Madewell, Theo Sleeveless Midi Dress — $128.00

Available sizes: XXS-XXL standard, petite, and plus sizes

The Theo Sleeveless Middi Dress might be the only smocked frock you need this summer. It’s super lightweight, incredibly breezy, and sold in three fabulous colors. Additionally, it’s made with Madewell’s “Better Cotton” initiative which supports ethical manufacturing and the environment through better cotton sourcing.

Colors: 3

Materials: 100% cotton

Pros: 

  • Breezy, flowy material
  • Stretchy, smocked bodice
  • Extra deep pockets

Cons: 

  • Not the most bra-friendly design

Best sleeveless

Everlane, The Riviera Dress

Available sizes: XXS-XXL

Say hello to your new favorite errand-running outfit. The Everlane Riviera Dress features a stretch tank top paired with a crisp cotton skirt for a casual-yet-chic silhouette that can be worn to the farmer’s market just as easily as it can to cocktail hour. We only wish it came in more colors. 

Colors: 3

Materials: 94% viscose, 6% elastane, 100-percent cotton skirt

Pros: 

  • Casual, versatile silhouette
  • Sustainable materials
  • Breathable

Cons:

  • Only available in three colors

Best T-shirt dress

Athleta, Farallon Dress — $99.00

Available sizes: XXS-XL

Finding the perfect, go-anywhere T-shirt dress with pockets is a feat, but Athleta managed to pull it off. The Farallon dress takes the classic T-shirt dress and elevates it with thoughtful features, like a breezy v-neck, easy access pockets, and thoughtful seaming in the front and back as an elegant touch.

Colors: 2

Materials: 94% organic cotton, 7% spandex

Pros: 

  • Roomy, versatile design
  • Sustainable materials
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight and breathable

Cons: 

  • Only two colors

Best tiered

Bettina Tiered Shirt dress with pockets
Maeve, The Bettina Tiered Shirt Dress — $148.00

Available sizes: XXS-XL in standard, petite, and plus sizes

Here we have a classic shirt dress, only this time, with a tiered skirt. The Maeve Bettina Tiered Shirt Dress is beloved by shoppers for its bold prints and breezy design. Best of all, it’s easy to care for. Simply toss it in the wash and tumble dry low (or hang to dry if you’re worried about shrinkage).

Colors: 5

Materials: 100% cotton

Pros: 

  • Inclusive sizing
  • Sustainable materials
  • Relaxed, breathable silhouette
  • Bold, summery prints

Cons:

  • No solid colors available
  • Select sizes/patterns sold out

Best

Best V-neck
Anthropologie, The Somerset Maxi: Cutwork Edition — $220.00

Available sizes: XXS-XL in standard, petite, and plus sizes

This chic cotton cutout dress is giving us The White Lotus vibes (in a good way). It’s posh and elevated while giving off a vacation vibe. And with a deep V neckline and hidden, on-seam pockets? We’re sold.

Colors: 5

Materials: 100% cotton

Pros: 

  • Inclusive sizing
  • Flowy, natural material
  • Eye-catching eyelet design

Cons: 

  • Expensive
  • Hand-wash only

Best cut-out

The Drop Cutout dress
The Drop, April One-Shoulder Cut-Out Tiered Midi Dress — $70.00

Available sizes: XXS-5XL

Cutouts are a warm-weather staple for adding more airflow into your outfit on hot, swampy days. Enter, this affordable midi dress that’s perfect for summer. The one-shoulder design features deep pockets, an elastic waster, and zero zippers, so it’s comfortable, convenient, and colorful to boot.

Colors: 6

Materials: 100% cotton

Pros: 

  • Affordable
  • Inclusive sizing
  • Breezy material and cutouts
  • Machine washable

Cons: 

  • Some shoppers say the material feels low-quality

Best bridesmaid/formal gown

Azazie, Kimber Floor-Length Dress — $99.00

Available sizes: A0-A30

A bridesmaid dress with pockets? We’re swooning—especially since it’s sold in basically a million colors. Best of all, it’s affordable! For less than $100, this pretty dress, complete with trendy flutter sleeves, can be yours. (Fun Fact: I’m wearing this exact dress in my best friend’s wedding later this year.) One thing to keep in mind: It’s not sold in traditional numeric sizing, so you may want to have someone help you take your measurements for the most accurate size selection.

Colors: 59

Materials: Polyester chiffon

Pros: 

  • Affordable
  • Impressive color range
  • Custom sizing available
  • Option to try before you buy

Cons: 

  • Non-traditional sizing can be confusing

Best budget-friendly formal dress

Jasambac, Women's Bow One-Shoulder Dress — $40.00

Available sizes: S-XL

If you’ve got a slew of special occasions to attend this year and don’t want to break the bank on a dress with pockets, the Jasambac Women’s Bow One Shoulder Dress with Pockets from Amazon is a great choice. It has a classic cocktail-friendly silhouette that’s sold in a bunch of trendy colors, including neutrals and brights. Bonus: It’s stretchy and bound to keep you comfy all night long.

Colors: 30

Materials: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

Pros: 

  • Affordable
  • Impressive color range
  • Stretchy

Cons: 

  • Hand-wash only
  • Some reviews say the material is low quality

Feels the most like leggings

beyond yoga dress
Beyond Yoga, Featherweight At The Ready Square Neck Dress — $138.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

Made with Beyond Yoga’s iconic Spacedye fabric (which is as close to air as you can get for material), the At the Ready dress is the dress version of the brand’s famous leggings (which we also love). It’s a casual dress you can dress up or down, with its square neck giving it a more sophisticated fit than your standard shift or pull-on dress. This is a dress you can simply pull or throw on, which means it’s been our editorial commerce director’s easy summer go-to for two years now (she has it in several colors). Stretchy, soft, and the perfect midi length, you’ll be grabbing for this dress whether you’ve got plans to go out or stay in and catch on TV. And yes—it has deep pockets to carry all your snacks.

Colors: 6

Materials: 94% Polyester, 6% Spandex

Pros:

  • Soft, stretchy material
  • Lightweight
  • Bra is optional
  • As comfortable as a nightgown, but still has enough structure to be worn as day clothes

Cons:

  • Doesn’t offer much support like an exercise dress would
  • Expensive
  • Not the most size-inclusive
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Meet the Swimwear Brand That Confidently Got Me Back Into a Two Piece https://www.wellandgood.com/left-on-friday-swimwear-review/ Sun, 28 May 2023 15:00:32 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1067711 Surprise, surprise: Finding a cute swimsuit you feel comfortable and genuinely confident in is kind of a big deal. The emotional rollercoaster of fitting room try-ons and online returns can be grueling, especially for folks who grew up in the age of glorified diet culture and were surrounded by the unattainable, downright problematic beauty standards that bombarded us from magazine spreads and television screens. Even with the strides we’ve made in inclusivity and body image, getting into a bikini is still hard for some of us. Thus, finding a swimsuit you really, truly love is a win to be celebrated!

For me, that swimsuit happens to be from Left On Friday (LOF), the Canadian swimwear brand that makes functional, feel-good swimsuits and apparel designed to take you from surf-soaked beach hangs to poolside palomas. The brand’s beloved Plunge Top ($85) and Hi Tide Bottom ($85) have quickly made me love getting into a bikini. No shade to the pilled one-piece that’s been collecting dust in my bikini drawer, but I’ve never felt so strongly about a swimsuit before—let alone, a two-piece. 

left on friday swimwear, the plunge top on model wearing red bikini bottoms
Left on Friday, Plunge Top — $85.00

Sizes: XS-XL (Recommended for A-C cups)

Left on Friday’s resident low-coverage bikini top, The Plunge Top’s flattering V-neck cut plays up your cleavage while still feeling comfortable and secure.

Colors: 9

left on friday swimwear hi tide swim bottom
Left on Friday, Hi Tide Bottoms — $85.00

Sizes: XS-XXL

These bottoms are stretchy yet compressive, buttery soft, quick-drying and totally wedgie-proof. So it’s no surprise these have over 500 5-star reviews!

Colors: 34

Fun fact: Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee, Left on Friday’s founders, were both former Lululemon product execs, so it’s no wonder why every LOF piece wears as well—better than, even—your favorite activewear. The brand’s signature Smoothing Dream fabric is made in Italy and is *buttery* soft, offering supreme stretch and smoothing compression that hugs my body without being constrictive. Even more impressive is the fact that the suit keeps its stretchy, nearly sculpting feel when wet or dry, in the sand, salt, and chlorine (and after several rounds in the washer). The fabric is quick-drying too, which means I can go from the pool to lunch with minimal waiting around time. Whether you’re a beach-volleyball type or a nap-in-the-shade-while-your-friends-play-beach-volleyball type  (me), LOF swimwear is designed to keep you feeling confident and looking cool through all your summer adventures.

author wearing left on friday swimwear and left on friday wear to button down
You’re looking at my new summer uniform—the Left on Friday Plunge Top and Hi Tide Bottom (in Deep End), and the Wear To Button Down (in Sprint Stripe).
Photo: Author

It’s also the most comfortable, well-fitting bikini I’ve ever tried, nixing the need to fuss over falling straps, dig out wedgies, scratch itchy tags, or worse—chafe from shoddy seam work. The material is so smooth and soft, I’ve even worn the Plunge Top in lieu of a sports bra, and as a bralette when I’m behind on laundry. I can pull it on without breaking a sweat, and even with its low coverage and V-neck cut, I feel secure and supported—like I could go on the wildest water slide or do a core-burning water workout (which I actually did) without risking a wardrobe malfunction. The same is true of the brand’s Hi Tide Bottoms; the sky-high swim briefs give me the smoothing (not suffocating) fit and medium booty coverage I want, without constantly riding up into a wedgie or rolling down my waist. This is all by design, of course—LOF’s swimwear is all tag-less (genius!) and made with durable elastics and reinforced seams to help the pieces stay put no matter what you get up to.

left on friday swimwear where to button down
Left on Friday, Where To Button Down — $140.00

Sizes: S/M-L/XL

Your new favorite swimsuit coverup and casual top, the Where To Button Down will be the workhorse of your summer wardrobe. It’s made of the brand’s moisture-wicking, quick-drying ‘Sport Silk,’ AKA, 100-percent Japanese Cupro, a plant-based fabric that’s soft as silk, with *way* less maintenance.

Colors: 7

Every piece comes in a rainbow bright selection of hues that are bound to boost your mood—and mixing and matching shades is half the fun. I chose the brand’s top-selling “Deep End” colorway for my LOF look, but already have my sights set on “Punch”, a vibrant cool-toned purple, and “Aperol”, a frisky, neon orange. What’s more, Left on Friday has a slew of sporty, casual apparel offerings to compliment your swim look or wear solo. My favorite? The Wear To Button Down ($140), an endlessly versatile oversized shirt that feels like silk, without the high maintenance. (It’s washable!) It’s become my go-to cover up, and an everyday wardrobe staple with jeans and slide-on sandals—and what’s not to love about a top that can do both?

It’s official: I’ve found my swimwear soulmate in Left on Friday. And at $85 a piece, these are not the flimsy, short-lived bikinis you wear to keep up with fleeting fads. LOF swimsuits are well-made classics that deserve to be cherished.  Find yours, here!

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Found: 4 Quick-Drying Shorts That Let You Enjoy All-Day Adventures on Water and Land Without Swamp Butt https://www.wellandgood.com/quick-drying-shorts-womens/ Sun, 28 May 2023 14:00:08 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1065055 Every summer, my run club takes a trip to the beach. And by that I mean we run from downtown Boston to the shore, take a leisurely dip in the ocean, then run back again. It’s a glorious way to spend a Sunday, and one of my favorite runs of the year.

The only problem? I’m usually stuck in uncomfortably wet shorts for the last part, so I feel like I’m running back in a dirty diaper—which has sometimes led to chafing, and isn’t exactly healthy for the lady bits. It’s a similar conundrum whenever I try to bike ride home after taking our inflatable kayak out on the river, or if I want to go for a hike, or even just a walk around town and have brunch after doing something like paddle boarding. (I’m not the most graceful on the water, and somehow always end up wet.)

So I went on a hunt for versatile, quick-drying shorts that were swim-friendly, but also designed to comfortably run, bike, and hike in after getting wet. After putting several through their paces, I landed on four that felt great to wear in the water, and also easily move around in on land, wet or dry.

To test each one, I first went for a run and also walked around the city with them dry to see how they felt on a day-to-day basis without going in the water. Then, one-by-one, I got them soaking wet before heading out on an easy run—always on sunny afternoons in the low 70s—so that I could time just how long it took for each to fully dry. Here’s what I found, and why these four deserve a place in your closet if you’re heading out on the water but want to avoid the dreaded swamp butt.

Quick-drying shorts for all-day adventures

Tracksmith Run Cannonball Run Short Tights — $88.00

Designed with a four-way stretch fabric that’s used for Olympic speed suits, I found these shorts actually feel best when they’re wet. Although they’ll ride up a bit on my thighs when they’re dry, once I get them even just a little moistened, they stay perfectly put for the rest of my run (even just getting sweaty does the trick). And they actually feel good to run in when wet—the fabric doesn’t tug or leave me chafed. I also appreciate that they’re cute enough to wear as straight up swim shorts (there’s a matching sports bra, if you’re so inclined).

Time from fully soaking to dry: 47 minutes
Pockets: A large zippered pocket in the back that fits a phone
Fabric: 71% micro nylon, 29% elastane
Care: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry
Color options: 2 (though new colorways will be released in June 2023)

Pros:

  • Body-hugging silhouette  
  • Fabric feels great when wet  
  • Zippered back pocket big enough for a phone

Cons:

  • These run on the small side—I’d suggest sizing up  
  • Fabric rides up a little on the thighs when completely dry

Janji 4” Transit Tech Short — $74.00

It actually took some effort for me to get these shorts soaked—the water-repellent fabric really lives up to its name. On top of that, they were bone dry in less than half an hour. Without any liner, these shorts are incredibly lightweight, clocking in at just 3.9 ounces. The stretchy fabric makes them flexible enough for an easy run or hike, but the cut is a tad constrictive so I wouldn’t recommend them for when you really want to open up your stride with faster running.

Time from fully soaking to dry: 24 minutes
Pockets: Three zippered pockets, including a hand pocket on either side (including one with a little loop bungee for your keys), and one near the back that’s large enough to fit a phone
Fabric: 91% recycled polyester, 9% elastane
Care: Machine wash cold with like colors; tumble dry low
Color options: 3

Pros:

  • Water repellant and very quick to dry  
  • Lightweight  
  • Ample pockets, including room for your phone  
  • Made of mostly recycled materials  
  • Comes with a five-year guarantee  
  • Two percent from the purchase is donated to clean water efforts

Cons:

  • Water darkens the color quite a bit, so it’s obvious when (and where) they’re wet
  • Cut is a bit too constrictive for faster running

Rabbit Surf ‘N Turf 4” — $64.00

These shorts scream summer. Maybe it’s the native Californian in me, but the pattern of palm trees, bears, and, yes, rabbits, reminds me not to take whatever I’m doing too seriously. Although these took over an hour to fully dry, with lightweight fabric and a relaxed fit, I honestly didn’t mind running and moving around in them when they were wet—they weren’t distracting or at all uncomfortable.

Time from fully soaking to dry: 68 minutes
Pockets: One small pocket in the front left of the waistband, and one larger zippered pocket with a flap on the back right side (though not big enough for a phone)
Fabric: 89% polyester, 12% spandex
Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Color options: 7 (plus more in a shorter, 2.5″ seam style)

Pros:

  • Lightweight and breezy
  • Great cut for running  
  • Fun pattern

Cons:

  • They can take over an hour to fully dry  

Free Fly Women’s Latitude Short — $98.00

The durable water repellent coating on these shorts made them the fastest-drying of any I tested: Literally just 15 minutes after completely drenching them, they didn’t have a lick of water left. Although these are designed to keep you dry while fishing and boating, I found them flexible and comfortable enough for a hike or a short run.

Time from fully soaking to dry: 15 minutes
Pockets: A hand pocket on either side, and two pockets in the back, including one zippered one (though not big enough for a phone)
Fabric: 44% nylon, 41% recycled nylon, 15% spandex
Care: Machine wash cold inside-out on gentle cycle, can tumble dry low (but hang drying will extend lifespan of the water repellant coating)
Color options: 3

Pros:

  • Water resistant and super quick to dry
  • Muted colors don’t show when wet so these shorts can work well for a post-adventure brunch or stroll around town

Cons:

  • They run a bit large—if you’re between sizes, I’d pick the smaller option
  • On the expensive side

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Finally, a Lace Thong That Doesn’t Twist, Snag, or Leave You Feeling Like a Swamp Monster https://www.wellandgood.com/soma-intimates-embraceable-all-over-lace-thong-review/ Sat, 27 May 2023 18:00:17 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1067985 Remember the stretchy, one-size-fits-all lace thong popularized a few years ago? It was my absolute go-to in my 20s, but over the years, the one-size silhouette stopped cutting it (because, newsflash, one-size is almost always a scam). While I found similar styles at Victoria’s Secret and Aerie a few years back, the popular lace style has seemed to have disappeared off the market altogether, or in the rare cases I’ve been able to find it, has shrunken in size and design thanks to the low-waist trend making a comeback.

Because of this, I’ve been left with a less-than-stellar collection of thongs that are either too old, too small, or too dated in appearance. To remedy the situation, I started by getting rid of any and all thongs that didn’t fit just right, as well as those that might have fit okay, but weren’t comfortable after hours of wear. (I’m a firm believer that you should only keep things that you wholeheartedly love—it makes for a more fulfilling life, let alone dressing experience.) I then set out to on a quest to find the perfect lace thong. Eventually, I scrolled across the Soma Intimates Embraceable Signature All-Over Lace Retro Thong ($12 or 5/$39)—and immediately, my interest was piqued (so much so, in fact, that I bought five colors on the spot).

Soma Intimates, Embraceable Signature All-Over Lace Retro Thong — $12.00

Also sold in packs of five for $39

Available sizes: S-XXL

Colors: 18

So, what makes this thong so special, you might ask? A few things. For starters, it’s sold in a whopping 18 colors in women’s sizes S to XXL (I’m a size 12/14 and the XL fits perfectly). From a design stance, it sports a higher waistband compared to many other thongs of today, which I find to be more comfortable and stylish on my body. That waistband is also double (if not triple) the width of the lace thongs I used to swear by, which I also find to be more functional in the nature of the undies. The thicker the waistband, the less it tends to sag and twist under pants and leggings, something that can be *very* awkward to remedy outside the comfort of your own home.

What’s more, unlike some lace thongs that feature seams through the lace that inevitably snag or buckle under stretching (or feel constrictive during wear), this thong features no such limitations. It’s made of nylon and spandex without a single seam through the band to ensure the lace lays flat against your body, eliminating snagging and panty lines alike.

The designers of these pretty panties didn’t forget the cardinal rule of high-quality undies, though, as they had the forethought to line them with a 100% cotton gusset for maximum comfort and optimal breathability. While you might think underwear linings are up for debate (considering how comfortable seamless polyester panties can be), board-certified OB/GYN, Staci Tanouye, MD, FACOG says otherwise: “[Cotton and linen are] breathable, absorbent, and can help keep you cool and dry,” she previously told us while discussing the topic of the best underwear to buy. This is important because undies that aren’t breathable can retain moisture, which can in turn harbor bacteria and potentially lead to a whole host of nether problems, including infections and strong scents. (And leave you feeling like a swamp monster, no less.)

All this to say: I’m a huge fan of the Soma Intimates Embraceable Signature All-Over Lace Retro Thong and regularly check the site for new colors. Something to keep in mind, though, is that these undies are best paired with dresses or ultra-high-waisted pants and skirts, as the lace will peek out otherwise. Though, it’s not really the end of the world if it does, as the exposed thong trend seems to be back in the spotlight here in 2023, too. Who would’ve thought?

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Psst—Skims Is on Secret Sale at Nordstrom Right Now. Stock Up Before It Sells Out https://www.wellandgood.com/skims-nordstrom-half-yearly-sale/ Thu, 25 May 2023 20:30:16 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1068635 When Skims launched in 2019, the Kim Kardashian-founded brand—which sells body-hugging shapewear, clothing, and undergarments—became an instant hit. But if you’ve ever shopped for Skims, you know that securing pieces can be a hit-or-miss; the brand operates on a drop model, releasing limited quantities of the brand’s collections. This can make it hard to secure pieces you want in your preferred color, style, or size. Not to mention, Skims products aren’t cheap. But if you’ve been meaning to see what all the fuss is about, I’ve got good news for you: Discounted Skims can be found at Nordstrom’s Half Yearly Sale.

Even better news—everything, from stylish bodysuits to buttery bralettes to dreamy sleepwear, can be found at the sale. We’ve already set our eyes on the slightly shimmery Disco Bodysuit (originally $88, now $44) that’s discounted 50 percent. Same goes for this Dreamy Pajama Set (originally $128, now $64) that looks perfect for rainy summer nights on the couch.

It’s hard enough as is to secure Skims. Even more difficult? Scoring Skims on discount. That’s why Nordstrom’s Half Yearly Sale is where you’ll want to shop this weekend to pick up a few pieces from this buzzy brand while they’re on sale. We must warn you: Styles are selling out fast, so make sure to shop now before the whole lot sells out.

Skims, Disco Mock Neck Sleeveless Thong Bodysuit — $44.00

Originally $88, now $44

This Disco Mock Neck will level up your outfits from zero to 100 instantly. Each bodysuit delivers a luminous sheen and is made of a nylon and spandex blend that offers endless comfort. What’s also nice is that it’s available in three basic colors that go with everything, plus a bright, summery fuchsia. No matter if you’re wearing it with shorts, a skirt, or jeans, this piece will be in your wardrobe for every season.

Sizes available: XXS-3X

Colors: 4

skims Stretch Cotton Jersey Scoop Neck Bralette
Stretch Cotton Jersey Scoop Neck Bralette — $16.00

Originally $32, now $16

If you’re still running on that old bralette from college, now’s the time to make the upgrade. This scoop neck bralette makes for the perfect swap; it’s stretchy and comfy to wear, and offers light support for lounging or low-impact activities. Lucky you, it’s available for 50 percent off.

Sizes available: XXS-4X

Colors: 9 (sangria on sale)

skims Logo Trim Stretch Cotton Tank
Logo Trim Stretch Cotton Tank — $28.00

Originally $38, now $28

Cami season is upon us, this layer-ready tank top is stretchy and oh-so-comfy. It’s made of a cotton and spandex mixture, and it’s ideal for lounging at home or wearing underneath T-shirts, button-ups, and more. Both the “smoke” and “light heather gray” colors are on sale and seriously discounted, you might as well nab both.

Sizes available: M-2X

Colors: 4 (two on sale)

skims velour robe
Velour Wrap Robe — $64.00

Originally $128, now $64

Plush, relaxing, and luxe—that’s everything that the Velour Wrap Robe is. The long sleeves and shawl collar are reminiscent of a robe from a spa or 5-star hotel. Thankfully, you don’t have to drop a fortune to mimic the experience at home. It’s going to be your forever companion for slow mornings, spa days, or nights in the tub.

Sizes available: S-4X

Colors: 4

Skims Contour Lift Underwire Tank
Contour Lift Underwire Tank — $40.00

Originally $78, now $40

Whether you’re wearing a strapless dress or need a little more support under your clothes, consider Skims’ Contour Lift Underwire Tank. This bra and tank top-hybrid boasts molded, underwire cups that don’t dig into your skin, and adjustable, removable straps to lift up the girlies (hello, support). And thanks to the polyamide and spandex blend, this tank is heavenly on skin.

Sizes available: XXS-4X

Colors: 5 (two on sale)

Skims Drapey Cotton & Modal Pajamas
Drapey Cotton & Modal Pajamas — $64.00

Originally $128, now $64

A good night’s snooze is just a pajama set away, and this one promises sweet dreams. Snuggle up in the drapey, robe-like top and throw on the matching, elasticated bottoms for a cozy night in. Irresistibly soft, this PJ set won’t ever be taken off.

Sizes available: XXS-4X

Colors: 2

Skims Mock Neck Sleeveless Bodysuit
Mock Neck Sleeveless Bodysuit — $34.00

Originally $68, now $34

Constructed out of nylon and spandex, this body-hugging suit accentuates your waist and hips. Since it’s seamless, it won’t rub against your skin and pairs well with just about anything—skirts, trousers, denim, you name it. For 50 percent off, this chic bodysuit is a steal!

Sizes available: XXS-5X

Colors: 3

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Meghan Markle and Jennifer Lopez Love These Super Comfortable Jeans—And They’re Up to 50% Off for Memorial Day https://www.wellandgood.com/mother-denim-memorial-day-sale/ Thu, 25 May 2023 16:45:22 +0000 https://www.wellandgood.com/?p=1068505 When a brand has a celebrity fan following, you usually know they are worth the hype. Loved by the likes of Meghan Markle, Jennifer Lopez, Naomi Watts, and Jennifer Garner, Mother Denim is one of those brands that we see celebrities in time and time again, thanks to their versatile designs, timeless styles, and super—we mean, super—comfortable denim material. With most jeans constructed from a mix of breathable semi-rigid cotton with lots of stretch, they’re certainly the kind of denim you can wear all day long without ever feeling too restricted in, making them a fantastic option for the office, home, running errands, and beyond. 

Almost just as thrilling as a comfortable pair of jeans you can actually live in, Mother Denim’s Memorial Day Weekend Sale starts early this year, with up to 50 percent off select styles. From May 25 through May 29, Mother is offering steep savings on some of its most popular jeans styles (plus other clothing like dresses, skirts, and tops), making it the perfect time to stock up on the luxe denim brand. The only problem? Since Mother rarely hosts sales, these styles will go fast.

Not sure where to start? We already shopped the sale and pulled out our favorite Mother jeans to make shopping the sale a breeze. See our top picks, ahead—just hurry and add to cart before they’re gone.

What we’re buying from the Mother Denim Memorial Day weekend sale:

High Waisted Smokin' Double Heel — $188.00

Originally $268, now $188

With the high-waisted style and slight flare leg, we’re absolutely in love with the High Waisted Smokin’ Double Heel jeans. Originally $268, these are now on sale for under $200 which is a total steal for a pair of luxe denim in a style that feels timeless yet modern—you can wear them for years to come. Style aside, we also love the material, which is a comfortable and breathable cotton blend that looks like stiff denim but has a much softer feel so you don’t have to worry about breaking them in.

We also love the wash, because it’s not too light, but also not classified as a medium wash so it feels less tied to trendy details. They’re appropriate enough to dress up with a blazer and loafers for an office look, but comfortable and versatile enough for a more casual ensemble, too, so you’ll get plenty of wear out of them.  

Sizes Available: 23 – 34

Material: Cotton, polyester, polyurethane 

The Mid Rise Dazzler Ankle Fray — $195.00

Originally $278, now $195

The Mid Rise Dazzler Ankle Fray is one of Mother’s most popular styles, and it’s so clear why. These jeans feature a comfortable mid-rise waist with a slightly cropped leg to show off the ankles. They’re in a medium wash, which gives them lots of versatility when it comes to styling, and they feature slight wear at the knees for a more casual and distressed look. We love them because even though they have that distressed feel, they still feel sophisticated enough to pair with a button-down and loafers for a smart dress code, but could also look effortlessly chic with a favorite T-shirt and sneakers, too. These jeans also have a lot of stretch, so they form fit to the body in a way that doesn’t feel too restrictive. 

Sizes Available: 23 – 34 

Material: Cotton, lyocell, polyester, elastane

The Wrapper Patch Springy Ankle — $174.00

Originally $248, now $174

Cargo pants are one of the most popular styles of 2023—however, they’re not for everyone. If you want that utility look without leaning fully into cargo, we love The Wrapper Patch Springy Ankle pants. These are constructed from a breathable and stretchy (yet still structural) cotton blend that is durable enough to hold its shape but comfortable enough to wear for hours. We love these because they have that utility look with the front pockets and elastic cuffs at the ankle but still feel really sophisticated so you can dress them up, depending on the occasion. They’re truly a pair of pants you’ll want to wear every day. Plus, while they might be trend-inspired, they’re still timeless enough to get plenty of wear out of them. 

Sizes Available: 23 – 34

Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane

The Hustler Roller Ankle — $188.00

Originally $268, now $188

For a wide-leg look, consider The Hustler Roller Ankle jeans, which are inspired by the ’70s culotte silhouette with their wide flare silhouette and slightly cropped leg. These jeans are constructed from a stretchy cotton denim material that gives them a denim look but with a super comfortable twist that makes them totally lounge-worthy. The jeans also come in a light gray wash that is super versatile and goes with just about anything and everything. 

Sizes Available: 23 – 34

Material: Cotton, lyocell, polyester, elastane

 

The Tune Up Hover Cuff — $181.00

Originally $258, now $181

If you love the look of baggy jeans but still want some structure, The Tune Up Hover Cuff is worth the splurge (especially when you consider that sale price). These 100 percent semi-rigid cotton jeans feature a medium wash with a fitted high waist that relaxes at the hips and thighs for a more baggy silhouette. We love these because instead of drowning the body, they cinch together a little bit at the calves to create a more intentional silhouette. The cuff is also a sweet styling detail that makes them feel super effortless. 

Sizes Available: 23 – 34

Material: Cotton 

The Stash Swooner — $153.00

Originally $218, now $153

A pair of black skinny jeans is a must-have for every wardrobe, especially if you love a pair of knee-high boots and don’t want to deal with the hassle of tucking stiff denim fabric in them. The Stash Swooner is another pair of jeans we love because they have a timeless second-skin look and a comfortable high waist that will surely always be in style. They’re also made from sustainable materials, including recycled poly and reused cotton with slight stretch so, while they look and feel like denim, they’re super comfortable (which is a must for jeans this form-fitting).

Sizes Available: 23 – 34

Material: Cotton, recycled poly, reused cotton, elastane

High Waisted Weekender Heel — $144.00

Originally $288, now $144

Add some flare to your wardrobe—literally—with the High Waisted Weekender Heel jeans. These jeans are constructed from a stretchy cotton denim material and feature a high-rise waist with a classic flare-shaped leg for a slightly vintage yet still modern look. The vintage-inspired jeans also feature a medium to light denim wash with intentional fading on the fronts of the legs, hips, and butt, which gives them a more casual feel, making them the perfect jeans for the weekend (hence the name).  

Sizes: 23 – 34

Material: Cotton, elastane

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