my everyday essentials: a soft girl’s guide to what I actually use.
If you’ve ever watched one of my vlogs and found yourself wondering, “What gloss is that?” or “Where’s that candle from?” — then this post is absolutely for you. I’ve thoughtfully put together a special little corner of the internet where you can easily find every single one of the things I genuinely use, wear, and consistently reach for on repeat in my daily life. It’s a curated space designed to share the essentials that truly inspire my style and routine.
so, how do we create a wardrobe that makes us feel great now and remains stylish for years to come?
Let’s talk closets. More specifically: how we thoughtfully build a wardrobe that truly feels like us — not just for this week or the next season, but in a lasting way that still resonates and fits our style five years from now. You know that feeling when you put something on and instantly feel good? Like you’re standing a little taller, walking with a bit more confidence, maybe even smiling at strangers without thinking about it? Yeah, we want more of that. But also — we want it to endure. Not trend-chasing, not fast fashion fatigue, and definitely not another bag of “maybe I’ll wear it someday” shoved in the back of the closet gathering dust. We want pieces that tell our story and grow with us over time.
my lazy girl guide to getting ready fast.
because sometimes you’ve got 20 minutes and a dream.
let me set the scene: you’ve snoozed your alarm three times, your iced coffee is sweating on the counter, and you need to be out the door in less time than it takes to finish an episode of sex and the city.
been there. too often.
this is the lazy girl guide — aka how i get myself looking cute, put together, and semi-awake with minimal effort. think soft glam, low lift, and still catching the train on time.
businesses to support in harlem in this summer.
as the sun settles in and summer hits uptown with all its golden-hour glow and sidewalk energy, i’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to show up for your neighborhood. and if you know me, you know harlem is more than just where i live — it’s a place i love deeply, with a heartbeat that’s unlike anywhere else in the city.
nyc will humble you: 6 lessons from a native new Yorker.
New York City raised me — but that doesn’t mean it’s ever gone easy on me. This place doesn’t simply hand you wisdom just because you’re born here. Instead, you have to earn it, day by day, moment by moment. Through the relentless chaos, the unexpected beauty, and the countless experiences that make you both laugh out loud and question everything you thought you knew, New York shapes you in ways no other city can.
the best local getaways for a day trip from nyc.
summer’s in full swing, and if you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick little escape from the chaos of the city without going too far. sometimes we just need a breather — somewhere green, peaceful, or just plain cute — and lucky for us, new york city is surrounded by spots that are perfect for a day trip.
why the met still matters — and always will.
Let’s talk about the Met. Not the opera (though we do love a good dramatic aria), but the Met — the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Sitting elegantly on the edge of Central Park, it’s far more than just another tourist stop. It stands as a true cornerstone of New York City’s cultural identity, a place where history and creativity seamlessly blend. If you’ve ever wandered through its grand marble halls or found yourself staring too long at a painting you didn’t fully understand but still felt something deeply, then you already know why the Met truly matters.
but let’s get into it.
lorna simpson: source notes — a bold evolution of memory, identity, and abstraction at the met.
Lorna Simpson: Source Notes at The Met is a stunning, transformative exploration of an artist’s journey from conceptual photography to bold, emotionally resonant painting. Open through November 2 at the Fifth Avenue location, this compelling exhibition is the first to spotlight Simpson’s significant painting practice—spanning more than 30 powerful works created over the last decade, offering a deep and nuanced insight into her evolving artistic vision.
black elegance, bold resistance: inside the met’s “superfine” exhibition.
You know how I get when a show is both smart and soul-stirring—Superfine: Tailoring Black Style at the Met nails that rare balance. Walking into Gallery 999, the opening quote from Olaudah Equiano—“I laid out above eight pounds of my money for a suit of superfine clothes to dance with at my freedom”—instantly set the tone. It’s not just about clothes; it’s about claiming identity, agency, and joy (metmuseum.org).
Curated by Andrew Bolton and Monica L. Miller, this is the Costume Institute’s first sharp, direct engagement with race in menswear. The exhibition spans three centuries across twelve thematic rooms—Ownership, Presence, Disguise, Cool, Cosmopolitanism—shedding light on how Black dress has consistently been a powerful form of both resistance and self-expression (en.wikipedia.org).
how to dress for your curves.
Today we’re diving into something that’s truly close to my heart and, let’s be honest, a big part of my daily life and closet: how to dress your curves. And I’m not talking about “how to hide them.” Nope, that’s definitely not the vibe here.
zara's summer 2025 collection: effortless elegance and sustainability.
Zara's latest collection is a true masterclass in effortless elegance, seamlessly blending trend-forward prints, luxurious matching sets, and romantic dresses, all thoughtfully designed with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly, sustainable materials.
july style guide.
I’ve been people-watching all over the city lately (you know I just can’t help myself), and the summer fashion scene in NYC this July? It’s absolutely serving looks. Whether it’s lazy, sun-drenched walks through Harlem, stylish brunches in Williamsburg, or lively nights out downtown, the girls, the guys, the theys — everyone’s really stepping up their style game this month. So, I thought I’d put together a little roundup of what’s been catching my eye recently. Consider this your casual city-style cheat sheet, sprinkled with a bit of that signature maybe ally flair 🕊️
july in nyc.
July in New York City is a vibrant tapestry of patriotic celebrations, culture-rich festivals, electrifying performances, and exciting outdoor adventures. From iconic Fourth of July fireworks to diverse street fairs and live music events, the city pulses with energy. Here’s your carefully curated guide to the standout highlights—whether you’re a local eager to explore or a visitor discovering the city for the first time.
How to Get a New York City Library Card (And Why You Definitely Should).
You already know I’m incredibly romantic about most things in New York, but a library card? To me, that’s peak main character energy. I got mine a while ago, and it honestly feels like one of those beautifully underrated adult wins — similar to discovering your go-to deli or successfully getting on a landlord’s good side. If you're currently in NYC and you haven’t yet obtained a library card, let me help you fix that little oversight. Here’s how it works, where to go for the best experience, and why it’s 100% worth every effort you put into getting one.
Creative Content Creator Tips for Summer in NYC.
Summer in NYC is undeniably a lot to handle. It’s sweaty, it’s loud, it’s chaotic — and it’s also one of the most creatively charged times of the year. If you’re a content creator trying to film, shoot, post, or plan anything while dodging oppressive heat waves and navigating the crowded sidewalks… I see you, and I appreciate your hustle. This one’s especially for you. Whether you’re just starting out on your content journey or you’ve been building your creative empire for years, here are some valuable and inspiring creative content creator tips for not just surviving — but truly thriving — in the vibrant summer streets of NYC.
What 6 Months on YouTube Has Taught Me.
Six months ago, I uploaded my very first video to YouTube. There was no viral moment, no grand strategy behind it—just me, a camera, and a quiet, simple decision to begin sharing pieces of my life with others.
I didn’t know exactly where it would lead — I just knew I wanted to take the leap and give it a try. Now, half a year into the journey, I’ve gained so much more knowledge and insight than I ever anticipated.
a quiet kind of powerful: amy sherald at the whitney.
Last week, I wandered over to the Whitney Museum on a quiet, slow weekday afternoon to see the exhibition Amy Sherald: American Sublime, and honestly, I haven’t stopped thinking about it since. The experience left a lasting impression that continues to resonate with me.
How to Build a Summer Capsule Wardrobe for NYC Life.
Let me tell you: having a well-curated capsule wardrobe for summer has truly saved my mornings in so many ways. When the city’s hot, sticky, and unpredictable — especially during those sweltering months — and your calendar is packed full of everything from busy workdays to vibrant rooftop dinners and creative content days, you really need a wardrobe that makes getting dressed feel both easy and stylishly cute.
What I Actually Wear in NYC Summer: Style Notes from a Curvy Girl in Harlem.
If you’ve ever attempted to look cute and stylish in 90º heat while navigating the challenges of climbing subway stairs and deftly dodging sidewalk scooters… then you know that summer in New York City is most certainly not for the faint of heart.
Hotels in NYC I Love (From Bougie to Budget-Friendly).
Whether you're visiting New York City for the first time or planning a delightful staycation (which I highly recommend, by the way), picking the right hotel truly matters. This vibrant city offers an abundance of options — some are iconic landmarks, others maintain a low-key charm, and then there are those that just perfectly capture the unique vibe of NYC. With that in mind, I put together a thoughtfully curated list of hotels in NYC that I genuinely love — places I’ve personally stayed in, toured extensively, or bookmarked for my future travels. Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxurious escape or find a cozy spot that’s budget-friendly yet stylish, there’s something here for you to consider.