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.
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.
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).
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.
Happening in NYC - June 2025
June 2025 in New York City promises an exciting and diverse array of vibrant events, ranging from thrilling cultural parades and lively music festivals to the much-anticipated Broadway's biggest night. Here's your comprehensive guide to the must-see happenings and experiences you won't want to miss this month…
Why Starting a YouTube Channel Is Actually a Great Idea (Especially Now).
I know starting something new can feel a little terrifying. Putting yourself out there on the internet? even scarier. But if you’ve ever had that pull to start a YouTube channel — to share your stories, your art, your life — this post is your sign to go for it.
Whether you're thinking about filming your coffee runs, your creative work, your quiet mornings, or your bold opinions, there is space for you on YouTube. i started my channel from my tiny Harlem apartment — no fancy equipment, no huge plan. just curiosity, a camera, and the belief that i had something worth saying.
Review: as ever, by Megan, Duchess of Sussex
I've been a dedicated fan of As Ever for quite a while now, and I'm genuinely thrilled to share my thoughts and insights on this exceptional brand with you. As someone who deeply values simplicity, quality craftsmanship, and thoughtful purpose in clothing, I have found As Ever to be a perfect fit for my lifestyle and personal aesthetic.
Music Heals.
I wanted to take a moment to share something that has been on my mind lately – the incredible and transformative healing power of music. Whether it's a deeply emotional soulful ballad, an uplifting and energizing anthem, or a soothing melody, music has a unique ability to touch our hearts and minds in a way that nothing else truly can.
Happening in NYC - May 2025.
Here’s an expertly curated guide to some of the most exciting major concerts, thrilling sports events, captivating musicals, and unique pop-up happenings taking place in the vibrant city of New York throughout May 2025.
Introducing: Maybe Ally — My YouTube Series About Curiosity, Trying New Things & Staying Honest.
Maybe Ally is my brand new video series on YouTube, where I enthusiastically explore and try something new around the vibrant city of New York. In each episode, I share my honest thoughts and experiences — no fake hype, no sponsored vibes (yet!), just me, my genuine curiosity, and a camera capturing the adventure. Join me as I delve into the unique aspects of city life, showcasing the hidden gems and intriguing activities that make New York so captivating.
what’s in your stack?
I genuinely want to know what you’re currently reading these days. I'm always eager to discover new titles that could pique my interest and ultimately make this ever-growing stack of books even bigger for me. I love library science so much; they play such a crucial and invaluable role in helping me explore and delve into books I otherwise would have never thought to read or even consider.
Back in NYC…
I'm back in vibrant New York City after an incredible week spent soaking in the unique charm of New Orleans! I'm still on an exhilarating high from the remarkable food, infectious music, and delightful company I enjoyed during my time in NOLA. From savoring the iconic beignets at Cafe du Monde to experiencing the lively jazz performances on Frenchmen Street, every moment of my trip felt like pure magic. I even had the opportunity to wander through an enchanting speakeasy and visit a voodoo museum.
Embracing Beauty: Plus Size Women and Brazilian Waxing.
As a plus-size woman, navigating the complex world of beauty and grooming can often be challenging. Societal beauty standards, which predominantly cater to smaller body types, frequently leave many feeling excluded, uncomfortable, or self-conscious about their appearance.
My Mother’s Vintage Camera.
In 1982, from what she lovingly told me, my mother acquired this beautiful Canon AE-1 Program, and it forever changed the course of her life and mine in ways I can hardly articulate. So many of my cherished memories of her, our family, and our friends revolve around this incredible camera.
Happening in March.
As the snow gradually melts away and delicate flowers bloom, New York City comes alive with an incredible and vibrant array of exciting events and activities. From captivating art exhibitions to exhilarating music festivals, delicious food festivals to stunning fashion shows, there is something for everyone in this remarkable city that never sleeps. You can easily find an event that matches your interests and tastes, making every visit unique and special.
What I’m Reading Lately.
Hey Guys & Dolls! I hope that 2025, despite all of its numerous woes and challenges, has filled you with some much-needed joy and positivity. I’ve been finding myself doing a lot more reading and diving into different worlds lately. So, I wanted to take a moment to share the exciting books I’ve been reading or am getting ready to explore soon.