Tuesday, November 16, 2021

A Festive Guide To Everlane’s Fuzziest Sweaters

If there’s a tried-and-true fashion brand that consistently delivers high-quality, sustainably made wardrobe essentials, it’s Everlane — but you already knew that. Every one of the brand’s apparel offerings is perfect for capsule-building. The brand’s pleasing color palette is, well, palatable. And, the competitive price points always offer plenty of bang for your buck.

Over here on the Shopping team, we track, obsess over, and inevitably acquire every new Everlane launch — underwear, denim, swimsuits, activewear, you name it (heck, even tube tops!). If Everlane releases it, we will wear it. And, you best believe that for the holidays, everyone on our list will be receiving at least one of the brand’s greatest sartorial hits.

And speaking of hits, there’s one category where Everlane really sings — the sweater, that crucial cold-weather fashion item du jour and supremely giftable wardrobe staple. The good news is that Everlane’s got a fresh crop of styles (including new additions to the women’s cashmere assortment and alpaca best-sellers) that are already flying off the digital shelves. The bad news is that you’re now tasked with making tough decisions on which ones to score.

So ahead, we’ve broken down some of the most coveted knitted wares from Everlane to consider wearing (or gifting) for the holidays — along with stats on how they’re currently ranking based on customer reviews. A couple of these sweater styles are so fresh that they don’t even have enough data yet and, for those, we tapped some teammates to give the new knits a classic test drive. Now, go on and have yourself a cozy time.

The Cashmere Collared Sweater, $145

The Cashmere Sweater With A Touch Of Romance
You gotta love a sweater with a charming collar — it makes the wearer look presentable at all times. Expect a super soft handfeel, a cropped cut, subtle blouson sleeves, and a slightly billowy fit.
Product Breakdown: Available in 5 colors in sizes XXS through XL
The Hype: 4.49 out of 5 stars and 41 reviews on everlane.com
What They’re Saying: “I was not sure if this sweater would work for me but I liked the pecan color so much I decided to give it a try. I am so glad I did because it ended up being my favorite. It has a cropped waist that is very flattering for a petite lady. The sleeves are slightly ballooned but it is very subtle. The material is thicker than I had expected and I am obsessed with the little details around the shoulders. The collar is very cute and looks great poking out under layers. The sweater has a bit of a vintage vibe and feels very wholesome. Looks great with high-rise pants or skirts. I just love it.” — JustineS, everlane.com reviewer

The Oversized Alpaca Crew, $100

The Big-Fit, Fluffy Cloud Alpaca Sweater
What you’re seeing here is Everlane’s first alpaca sweater, which is likely why this style has nearly 2.5K enthused reviews. It’s incredibly voluminous but light-as-air, cozy but not at all thick. And, offered at a solid one hundo dollars, it just may be the goldilocks of sweaters.
Product Breakdown: Available in 10 solid colors and 2 tonal colors in sizes XXS through XXXL
The Hype: 4.61 out of 5 stars and 2,493 reviews on everlane.com
What They’re Saying: “Love this item. The wool is less thick than I expected and it is itchy a bit (compare to the reviews I had read) but I still think it was totally worth it. Warm and cozy and the cut is just amazing. I chose XS and don’t regret it. It could have been a S too, but XS fits perfectly and is not tight at all.” — SJeanne, everlane.com reviewer

The Oversized Stroopwafel Turtleneck in ReCashmere, $195

The Classic Turtleneck Sweater, Turned Up
Leave it to Everlane to take a basic style and knit in some cool new details. This is made from 100% ReCashmere — Everlane’s upcycled cashmere fabric — which means that this isn’t the usual soft-as-butter texture. Instead, it’s fairly lightweight, a little drapey, and waffle-y.
Product Breakdown: Available in 8 colors in sizes XXS through XL
The Hype: 4.40 out of 5 stars and 205 reviews on everlane.com
What They’re Saying: “I read a bunch of the reviews for this sweater before I decided to make the jump and try it. I have to say in all honesty after reading so many 5-star reviews I have to agree, they are all true! This sweater does it all and looks stylish while doing it. The buttery soft cashmere is warm but not hot and I love all the colors. On a recent trip I found it to be great for chilly plane rides, a foggy day at the beach, and dressy enough with jewelry and boots for a dinner out.” — kaikai, everlane.com reviewer

The Belgian-Waffle Pocket Pullover in ReCashmere, $165

The Pick-A-Pocket Boxy Sweater
Similar to the turtleneck sweater above, this one is also made from 100% ReCashmere — which means that it’s easy-breezy and has that basket-weave-like texture. This one is perfectly boxy and cropped for those in-between-season days, and less ideal for actual warmth.
Product Breakdown: Available in 4 colors in sizes XXS through XL
The Hype: 4.91 out of 5 stars and 11 reviews on everlane.com
What They’re Saying: “I was first taken aback by how un-cashmere-like this sweater felt, but then I read that it was made from the brand’s ReCashmere yarn, which then pleased me to know the materials had been reworked. So while this may not be the softest or coziest sweater from Everlane’s lineup, it’s extremely versatile and easy to throw on because it’s so airy. It has a true-to-size oversized boxy silhouette (with a subtle crop), and the sleeves run long, so I’d recommend sizing down if you’d like a less roomy fit. What really sets this sweater apart from the other knits in my closet are the two handy front patch pockets, which I’m actually grateful for.” — Jinnie Lee, Refinery29 freelance fashion writer

The Cashmere Crew, $120

The Wear-Everywhere Cashmere Sweater
Consider this the new standard when it comes to cashmere sweaters. It’s unfussy, simple, and bound to be a fan favorite. It’s made from 100% Grade-A cashmere so it’s got that buttery-soft texture, and it comes in your usual selection of neutral hues with some unexpected brights peppered in.
Product Breakdown: Available in 12 colors in sizes XXS through XXXL
The Hype: 4.63 out of 5 stars and 30 reviews on everlane.com
What They’re Saying: “I’ve been eyeing this sweater for a few years and I’m so glad that I finally bought one. It’s so soft and the drape is so flattering. I feel like I treated myself to something timeless and beautiful. Substantial weight and warmth, but it’s thin enough to layer easily. I absolutely adore this sweater.” — GuinnessThePup, everlane.com reviewer

The Diamond-Stitch Cloud Crew, $145

The Cozy Sweater With A Subtle Cable-Knit
This oversized sweater consists of a unique blend that is 42% merino wool, 31% pima cotton, and 27% alpaca — a mix that begets a cloud-like pullover that is surprisingly extra-cozy without any of the itch. It’s also got a subtle stitched design that’s a cross between cable-knit and argyle. Good stuff.
Product Breakdown: Available in 5 colors in sizes XXS through XL
The Hype: 4.79 out of 5 stars and 14 reviews on everlane.com
What They’re Saying: “I was pretty impressed with the quality of this sweater. It feels and looks solid and weighty, but the added diamond stitching also makes it seem kind of delicate, but not delicate in a way where it would pill or snag. It feels sturdy! Because the sweater is made from a wool blend, I was initially concerned that it may feel rough or itchy on the skin, BUT I literally tried it on without a shirt underneath and it felt soft and comfortable! No scratching or skin irritation. As far as fit, I would say it runs true to size. I’m really petite (5’ 1”) and ordered an XS in the heathered ivory color. It has a boxy shape but doesn’t read oversized on the body. I’d say it’s more of a relaxed fit with plenty of room to layer a tee or even a button-up underneath. I’d personally recommend sizing up if you want a true oversized look. The color is also very accurate to the photo on Everlane’s website. Overall, the price point on this baby is high, but I do think this is a case where you get what you pay for. It gets my good-investment stamp of approval.” — Kate Spencer, Refinery29 affiliate strategist

The Felted Merino Half-Zip Sweater, $145

The Half-Zip Sweater With Throwback Vibes
This one’s for the sporty, outdoorsy sweater folks. It appears to be a true half-zip, meaning it actually zips half-way down the chest (as opposed to only a quarter-way). Material-wise, this is made from 100% extra-fine merino wool, which means it packs in all the warmth and coziness.
Product Breakdown: Available in 7 colors in sizes XXS through XL
The Hype: 4.69 out of 5 stars and 195 reviews on everlane.com
What They’re Saying: “Randomly saw this on the website and was debating ordering online but talked myself out of it. Then, randomly went to the store and saw it in person and tried it on – never have taken it off since. The material is soft, cozy, but light and the cut is a little boxy but not super wide. It fits really well with just the right amount of casual looseness. I would buy all the colors but resisting hard!” — Bringmecake, everlane.com reviewer

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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The Best Sweater Dresses, According To Obsessed Shoppers

If there's one thing we know about you, dear Refinery29 reader, is that you absolutely live for dresses of all kinds: casual dresses for summer, puff-sleeve dresses for cheeky occasions, and cottagecore nap dresses for the home, just to name a few.

Since we're now in the fall dress and sweater dress phase of the calendar year, we sourced the most-loved and absolute best sweater dresses from the interwebs, as rated and reviewed by customers who plan to live in these knitted frocks for the next several months. Minis, midis, maxis, ribbed, chunky, hooded, and more — trust that there's a perfect sweater dress in here for you, too.

Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Current Air Cable-Knit Sweater Dress Set


The Double-Hitter Sweater Dress

Take note: This is a two-piece sweater dress set! Wear it solo as a sleeveless sweater dress, or with the turtleneck-and-sleeves top for a full-on chunky sweater dress look.

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 5 reviews on anthropologie.com

What They're Saying: "I love this dress! The material is very soft. It is flattering and not too tight. I love that you can wear it as a shift or add the top. This is perfect for work or going out. It is classic! The quality is great! It looks expensive. I ordered the lighter color."

Current Air Cable-Knit Sweater Dress Set, $, available at Anthropologie

A New Day Long Sleeve Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress


The Super Ribbed Sweater Dress

Get to know the slightly stretchy sweater dress that wears like a warm hug.

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 57 reviews on target.com

What They're Saying: "Love this dress! Super warm and cozy and flattering on my preggo body and will still be cute when not pregnant. I think I might get in more colors!!!"

A New Day Long Sleeve Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress, $, available at Target
— PAID —

Try a relaxed-but-still-slinky silhouette with this rib-knit number.

H&M Ribbed Dress, $, available at H&M

J.Crew Knit Ribbed Sweater-Dress


The Travel-Friendly Sweater Dress

Don't be afraid to pack down this baby-bell-sleeved frock for your winter getaway — it's made from a crease- and wrinkle-resistant fabric.

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 12 reviews on jcrew.com

What They're Saying: "I have last year's version of this dress in black and couldn't wait to get this years version too! The sleeves add a nice touch. Wonderful, sturdy material and very high quality. Only drawbacks: the sleeves are a little long (like shown in the photo) and the dress runs slightly large -- I ordered a small and could have probably gotten away with an XS. I'm 5'6" ~150 lbs hourglass figure and usually wear a small or medium in dresses depending on the cut. The color is stunning as well!"

J.Crew Knit ribbed sweater-dress, $, available at J.Crew

Nina Leonard V-Neck Balloon Sleeve Sweater Dress


The Statement Sleeve Sweater Dress

Don't let the puff-sleeve moment deflate! Keep things pumped up with this cute sweater dress with even cuter romantic balloon sleeves. It's also in an array of other bold colors like red, yellow, black, and wine.

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 49 reviews on nordstromrack.com

What They're Saying: "Very flattering on my curvy figure. The color is bright and cheery. This will be a winter staple!"

Nina Leonard V-Neck Balloon Sleeve Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack

French Connection Simona Long Sleeve Rib Sweater Dress


The Curves-Enhancing Sweater Dress

Look closely and you'll see a sleek, two-tone knitted design that's made to accentuate and flatter hourglass figures. (Though, as reviewers have noted, it's great for other body shapes, too.)

The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 27 reviews on nordstrom.com

What They're Saying: "I’m normally a 10-12 in dresses I ordered a 10. The dress is form-fitting but not ridiculously tight. It sits nicely on my body...I am 5’10 198lbs for reference. I’m not super curvy but the pattern enhances my shape. The material is not thin but it’s also not super thick...it’s just right. I’ll be ordering the green one as well!"

French Connection Simona Long Sleeve Rib Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress


The Authentically Cashmere Sweater Dress

As with all of Quince's cozy offerings, this turtleneck sweater dress is made from ethically sourced, Grade A cashmere from Mongolia. It's available in four neutral colors if you're looking for a worthwhile capsule piece for fall.

The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 132 reviews on onequince.com

What They're Saying: "I am OBSESSED with this dress — I am already living in it. Like all of Quince's cashmere it is so soft, but it also is a great length, and so versatile."

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress, $, available at Quince

Anrabess Women's Turtleneck Oversized Sweater Dress


The Keepin' It Loose Sweater Dress

'Tis the season for turtlenecks — and this ribbed sweater dress is made to fit easy and oversized for those one-and-done days. And, because this is on Amazon, you can be assured there are many fun colors to choose from.

The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars and 2,529 reviews on amazon.com

What They're Saying: "I am shook. I was not expecting this sweater dress to be THIS good. I was excited for this to come in the mail and I imagined it would be cute but guuuuurl this hits every check mark. I took a gamble buying this because there weren't very many reviews and me being a plus size girl, it's hard buying clothing offline. I am 5'6" 245lbs and I bought the biggest size which is an XL. PERFECT. The color is gorgeous too."

Anrabess Women's Turtleneck Oversized Sweater Dress, $, available at Amazon

Eliza J. Fit & Flare Sweater Dress


The Back-To-Office Sweater Dress

Sometimes, you just need a modest, non-frumpy sweater dress that's chicly polished for a professional setting. This one fits the bill, and in a rich, beautiful teal color.

The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 83 reviews on nordstrom.com

What They're Saying: "Beautiful dress! The color is gorgeous, the knit fabric is gratifyingly heavy (not see-thru or flimsy), and the fit was true to size. So happy with this purchase. Can be worn for work, dinner out or events. I like the self fabric belt for a monotone look, but also plan on wearing a leopard belt with it! I'm 5'5", 125 lbs, 36DD and the medium was perfect for me. Great quality for a very reasonable price."

Eliza J. Fit & Flare Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom

Pink Queen Women's Loose Turtleneck Oversize Long Pullover Sweater Dress


The Ridiculously Cozy, Ridiculously Oversized Sweater Dress

Honestly, this one's a twofer — you could wear this as a sweater dress or as an oversized sweater with slim pants or jeans. This dress also comes in a ton of other colors, including several leopard-print options.

The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 15,937 reviews on amazon.com

What They're Saying: "I LOVE THIS SWEATER DRESS! I read the reviews before me and they said if you want the over size look to go up a size. I am 5’4. 145 pounds. Normally wear a medium. I went up to a large for the over size look. I normally roll up the sleeve once for a cute cuffed look. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND."

Pink Queen Women's Loose Turtleneck Oversize Long Pullover Sweater, $, available at Amazon

Old Navy Rib-Knit Cardigan Sweater Midi Dress


The Henley Sweater Dress

Super soft, stretchy, and comfy to wear, this relaxed-fit sweater dress is the epitome of dress-up-or-down versatility. This dress also comes in two additional covetable colors, and it ranges in sizes XS through 4X.

The Hype: 4.25 out of 5 stars and 34 reviews on oldnavy.gap.com

What They're Saying: "I love this! I've been looking for the perfect button-down sweater dress for a while now and this one is just right. Super soft, cozy, and not too heavy. Pair it with a jean jacket and booties and you're good to go!"

Old Navy Rib-Knit Cardigan Sweater Midi Dress, $, available at Old Navy

Pact Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress


The Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress

Pact, which is always leading the way in the sustainable fashion space, offers a can't-go-wrong sweater dress that is Global Organic Textile Standard Certified and manufactured at a Fair Trade Certified factory. Plus, the cable knit is super cute!

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 80 reviews on wearpact.com

What They're Saying: "This dress is more than expected. Heavy enough to be substantial, light enough to be comfortable and flattering — and all with organic cotton? COME ON! It's perfect. I will wear it every week this winter."

PACT Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress, $, available at PACT

FP Beach El Topo Sweater Maxi


The Flowy Maxi Sweater Dress

Inspired by beach cover-ups, this heathered sweater dress is designed to drape loosely on the body, as though you're headed to an oceanside bonfire after sunset. You can also grab this flowy dress in red wine or black.

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 14 reviews on freepeople.com

What They're Saying: "This arrived beyond my expectations! The fabric is quite heavy, with movement and stretch — it is a shapely cut. It has some warmth but is breathable. The texture is gorgeous. Will look great with boots, sandals, or slippers! Sleeves come all the way to my wrists and the length is just above my ankles (I am 5'9"). The olive color is so rich and I'm looking forward to getting another in natural perhaps. Really gorgeous piece. Please make more colors."

FP Beach El Topo Sweater Maxi, $, available at Free People

Nina Leonard Geometric Print Sweater Dress


The Fit-and-Flare Sweater Dress

If you're looking for a sweater dress with a unique design, this affordable fave from Nordstrom Rack is the frock to cop. Not into the print? You can get this in plain black or a subtler black-on-maroon colorway.

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 404 reviews on nordstromrack.com

What They're Saying: "Purchased an XL in the navy and was surprised how flattering it was on my curvy figure. Sweater dresses aren't usually the most forgiving but the waist on the dress comes above my natural waistline so it does a great job concealing my midsection. The fabric has a nice weight to it without being bulky or clingy. Love the flared, twirly skirt too."

Nina Leonard Geometric Print Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack

MOVEFORWARDFIRST Cashmere Knit Hooded Sweater Dress


The Basically-A-Snuggie Sweater Dress

This exceptionally cozy hoodie sweater dress is guaranteed to make you feel like you're wearing an all-day hug.

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 4,502 reviews on etsy.com

What They're Saying: "Warm, soft, hoodie, AND pockets! This is so comfy. I'm 5'4" and about 125 and I got a small — it fits perfectly but any bigger would be too big. It does have room to stretch so I don't have any restricted movement. If I saw this in a store I would've only paid $80, but I'm not mad at the price I paid and there's no way in hell I'd return this. I do recommend, great buy."

MOVEFORWARDFIRST Cashmere Knit Hooded Sweater Dress, $, available at Etsy

Abercrombie & Fitch V-Neck Slip Midi Sweater Dress


The Slip-In-A-Slit Sweater Dress

Form-fitting but generously stretchy, this ribbed sweater dress is effortless enough for everyday casual wear and for easy dress-up with the right shoes and accessories. You can also score it in creamy white or classic black.

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 13 reviews on abercrombie.com

What They're Saying: "This dress is AMAZING! I tried it on when it arrived, even though I was very bloated (thank you, IBS). Even on one of my bad bloating days, this dress is very flattering and forgiving! I followed the advice of other reviewers and sized down one size and it fits perfectly. For reference, I am 5’6”, 145 lbs, and curvy in the hips/butt. Love this dress!"

Abercrombie and Fitch V-Neck Slip Midi Sweater Dress, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch

UO Dale Ribbed Bodycon Polo Dress


The Polo Sweater Mini Dress

Preppy is (still) alive and well! This polo sweater dress is a solid transition piece if you're easing from summertime seaside vacationing to back-to-school crunchy fall foliage. If baby blue isn't your hue, this dress also comes in a deep raspberry red.

The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 6 reviews on urbanoutfitters.com

What They're Saying: "I love this dress and will be wearing it for the foreseeable future. It is so soft and so flattering and could be worn to do basically anything. The fabric is really stretchy; you could even go a size down but I love the fit as is in my regular M size. I got the brown — regretting not getting the blue too!"

UO Dale Ribbed Bodycon Polo Dress, $, available at Urban Outfitters

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The Only Way To Create “Real Influence,” According To This Entrepreneur

“Legacy” is often defined as something we leave behind — but what if we thought of it as a gift — with contributions from our family, friends, and ancestors — for future generations to inherit? To explore this theme, we’ve partnered with Target to bring you Beat Of My Own Drum, a photo series that amplifies the narratives of HMCU alumnae who are building their own legacies while expressing their uniqueness through style, entrepreneurship, and self-acceptance.

Not many of us could decide on a major as sophomores in college, much less launch a career-defining venture, but that’s exactly what Kaya Nova did. While she was a second-year music student at Spelman, Nova started blogging about the roller-coaster of emotions she was experiencing as a young Black woman who was the first in her family to go to college. Nova’s father suggested she recruit her friends to contribute stories to the blog, and since then, Grown has evolved into a full-fledged fashion, beauty, and lifestyle platform. “Grown was very personal when it began,” Nova says. “I had no plans for it to be what it is today.”

The digital magazine isn’t the only thing that has struck a chord with Nova’s audience. In true multi-hyphenate form, the New York City-based singer, songwriter, and producer is continuing to pursue her musical ambitions. Nova dropped a single titled “More Than That” in August, and has another to be released at the end of 2021. Nova hopes that by sharing every step of her ongoing artistic journey, she’ll impact other creatives along the way.

“I hope I can inspire people to challenge standards that make us feel like we have to fit into a box,” she says. “I want to keep teaching, sharing, and creating businesses and spaces for people like us. I want them to know every step I took to get where I am, so they can be even better than me. That’s the only way to create real influence.”

Read on for more of Nova’s wisdom on what it means to be an “artistpreneur,” the truth about making it big, and how to carve out a path with integrity.

Why going to an HBCU was everything: “The sisters and brothers I met on the Spelman campus are like family to me. The HBCU experience was so empowering. It gave me so much confidence in myself as a Black woman, and that helped me take big risks and pursue my dreams. As young Black people, we really need that push to say that you’re worthy, you matter, and investing in education built for you, by you, is so important.” 

I launched an online magazine because… “​​​​I wanted a safe space to say how I felt. A space to go with questions about how I should feel about my life as a Black girl in college, and what it means to be an adult. I didn’t feel that existed anywhere in the media at the time. Then I realized there were probably a bunch of other women who needed this space, too.”

I made up the word “artistpreneur because… “I never connected how business and artistry go together until I was in it. ‘Artistpreneurship’ is just the general act of owning yourself as a creator and allowing that to cover a lot of different fields. I’m hoping it catches on, and that artists embrace themselves as bigger than just the talent that they have.”

The truth about making it big: “With social media, it feels like people go from zero to 60 overnight — but that is never the case. Sometimes you get to spaces that you thought you always wanted to be in, and you’re like, ‘Oh, this doesn’t feel like I thought it was going to feel.’ You just have to give yourself grace and a lot of space to change your mind. Be flexible and realistic about where you are right now and what can happen. Be gentle with yourself through the process because it’s very hard, and it happens over time.”

Why it’s important to keep it real: “Even in modern-day artistry, it’s a lot of wanting to be someone else. Like when you’re thinking about how you’re going to become this superstar, you’re imagining something that really isn’t you, it’s something that would attract people to you. But it takes a lot of authenticity to be successful. You really have to know who you are as a person, what you care about, what you want to say, and who you want to say those things to.”

I would describe my personal style as… “The perfect blend between street and sweet. This year, I got into these milkmaid-type of designs. I didn’t know it was called cottagecore! But I also still love my long nails, my gold jewelry, and my sneakers. I’m very feminine, but someone might think, She’s not somebody that I want to play with because she kind of looks like she’s from around the way. I like to mix the two.”

How I primp: “I love to have a good set of lashes on, nice lip gloss, and I’ll do my eyebrows. I also like colorful eyeshadow because I feel like it makese a big impact with minimal effort. ​​I like to keep it simple, but with a lot of color.”

Style is more than just what you wear: “There’s a saying that when a Spelman woman walks into a room, you know the room has been walked through. We know how to command attention. When it comes to fashion and beauty — especially for Black women — it is so important for us to have as much self-expression as possible because we often don’t feel heard. But when we are dressed or when we have a certain style, it says so much without us having to say anything.”

What self-acceptance means to me: “It’s about having patience with yourself. It’s not about changing. It’s about having inner conversations every day and saying no matter where we are mentally, we’re still worthy. We’re still loved. We’re still cared for, and whatever is happening right now, we’re going to ride it out and be patient because it won’t always be that way.”

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Popcorn Tops, Make Room: The ’90s Trend Is Back & Coming For The Rest Of Your Closet

Low-rise jeans, mini skirts, butterfly prints — the recent Y2K style revival has millennials feeling like they’re in middle and high school all over again. Next up on the list of comeback trends: “popcorn tops” that have now made their way to the spring 2022 runways

Contemporary designers embraced the textured fabric, popular in the ’90s and early ’00s, and took it beyond shirts, showing puckered dresses, leggings, and bags. French designer Marine Serre offered a collection of printed bodysuits, dresses, and gloves adorned with prickly surfaces. While one would think that the wrinkly fabric of our youth would be enough to warrant a second look today, Serre did not stop there, mixing and matching contrasting prints and colors for maximum show-stopper effect. Then, there was Chet Lo at Fashion East, who showed mini skirt sets and halter-neck dresses with contrasting, bold colors, paired with oversized bags in a bubble-like finish and spiky sandals.

We should have expected this return. Like many other archival trends, popcorn tops have been a topic of discussion on TikTok, where Zoomers are discovering fashion staples of the ’90s and early aughts. To accommodate for this, thrift stores and online marketplaces, like Gen Z’s favorite e-commerce platform Depop, have begun to offer clothing from the era. On the home decor front, the look has also popped (ha) up in the past few years, with dimpled ceilings and walls (yes, you know the ones!) making a comeback, albeit in an updated way.

While, back in the day, popcorn textures appeared largely on tees and tanks, this time around, the trend is making its way to other articles of clothing like dresses, gloves, and mini skirts. It’s also looking a lot more modern, if not futuristic. Take, for example, Marine Serre’s deconstructed, quilt-like numbers that blurred the line between flesh and fabric. Meanwhile, Dries Van Noten’s spring 2022 collection offered looks fit for the office with boldly-hued skirts, tops, and dresses in the ruched fabric. Diesel also incorporated the texture into its spring 2022 collection, showing an asymmetrical bolero-and-skirt combo in denim

As the ’90s and Y2K comebacks promise a season full of shrinking hemlines and risqué pin tops, the popcorn trend is here to provide a more modest alternative to staying on-trend. Ahead, some (new and secondhand) options to don the trend ahead of spring.

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