Friday, June 17, 2022

These Athleta Pieces Are Perfect For Summering In The Mountains

This past weekend I got my Zen on among the trees in the beautiful Catskill Mountains of upstate New York. I spent the weekend donning Athleta’s wide range of activewear and casual clothing, although I’m no stranger to Athleta’s top-notch offerings. From reviewing plus-size activewear pieces to chatting with Alicia Keys about her collaboration with the brand, I’m on record as a fan of its super-comfortable, size-inclusive apparel. So when Athleta invited me on a weekend getaway to Piaule Catskills with forager-led trail hikes, Michelin-starred delicacies, falconry workshops, and astrology readings, I was obviously excited–especially to try some of its latest apparel launches. From the crispiest linen to the most butter-soft yoga pants, I got to test out some of Athleta’s new bestselling pieces IRL all weekend long.

Read on as I dish on my favorite style moments, thoughts on the fits, and how I used the Athleta pieces. Plus, my travel buddy and best friend Sarah Crawford makes a guest appearance and shares a few thoughts on a couple of her favorite pieces.

On My Way Dress, $89 &
Ultimate Bra, $49 & Salutation Stash Pocket II 5″ Short, $59

“The dress felt very soft and offered up a little more coverage than if I wore the salutation shorts and ultimate bra on their own. Since the dress didn’t have a built-in bra or shorts, it was nice to add in classic athlete pieces for more support. However, if you have chafing balm, the shorts aren’t needed. I love that I got a chance to try on a workout dress and the calm forager trail hike was perfect for a fun but cute outfit. If I were to go back, I’d probably snag the 7-inch salutation short instead because I love any chance for longer short inseams for more coverage.” —Chichi Offor

Infinity Dress, $99 $79.99, Saysh One Sneaker, $150

“I’m not normally a workout dress person, but I really love the feel of this one and the fun color! I often get self-conscious about my body in dresses, especially for workouts, but this dress made me want to branch out more with my workout wardrobe! The built-in shorts were a nice bonus. It was great for a chill hike through the woods.” —Sarah Caroline Crawford

Cabo Linen Wide Leg Pant, $79 & Playa Linen Shirt, $99 & Aurora Seamless Crop Rib Tank, $44

“This was probably my favorite look of the whole weekend for non-athletic activities. I wore this for dinner, an astrology reading under the stars, and s’mores by the fire. The linen is light and slightly roomy, so it’s a super-comfy fit. Although the line was light feeling, it felt substantial, like it was constructed with top-notch quality in mind. I hardly ever get a chance to rock an all-white, monochromatic outfit, so I was super excited to put that to the test.” —Chichi Offor

Conscious Cut Out Crop, $69 & Transcend 7″ Short, $59

“I was so excited to try the conscious crop in the new cutout iteration. The original version is one of my very favorite tops to rock in warmer weather, and this did not disappoint either. The fabric is butter smooth, yet there is a significant amount of compression, so you don’t have to wear a bra, and you are still definitely supported. The Transcend shorts are light as a feather and smooth throughout. They have a barely there feeling that’s like a second skin.” —Chichi Offor

Transcend 7/8 Tight, $99 & Transcend Bra, $59

“I’m surprised at how much I love the light and soft feel of the bra and matching leggings! Other than the bra being a tiny bit low cut for very active workouts, I feel like this set gives me full coverage, and I loved how it fit me. I’ll definitely be wearing it on repeat and want to try it in more colors.” —Sarah Caroline Crawford

Elation Flare Pant, $99 & Conscious Cut Out Crop, $69

“I wanted to do another monochromatic moment during the trip, so I went for a classic all-black look for yoga. I’ve tried the elation material before in the legging form, and these flare pants live up to just what I expect. There’s a little compression but not too much. It’s great for moving freely and stretching deeply as I did in my yoga practice that morning. The black-conscious cutout crop looks good enough to wear for a casual hang or even a date night with a skirt! I cannot emphasize enough how awesome it is to wear tops without bras and still feel supported as a large-chested woman!” —Chichi Offor

Ultimate Stash II 7/8 Tight, $109 & Ultimate Bra, $49

“I used this outfit combination to do a HIIT workout. The ultimate stash leggings held up surprisingly well as I shifted, lunged, and jumped through multiple positions. While the leggings aren’t as soft as some other Athleta pieces, they do have a solid amount of compression. Plus, I think the fuchsia colorway is AMAZING. The ultimate bra was cute and was great for most of the moves. However, I found that my breasts hopped up and down a little more than I liked during the jumping movements. I think this bra is good for medium- to low-impact workout movements or light jogging.” —Chichi Offor

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. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Thursday, June 16, 2022

Headgear Is The Secret To A Perfect Outfit

Checking Out is a new shopping column straight from the cart of Simone Oliver, Refinery29’s global EIC. She wears many hats (all of them stylish), and she's always got an inspiring, wish-worthy list on deck. Watch this space for monthly market musings from Simone (and sometimes a special guest). These aren’t just editor’s picks — they’re THEE editor’s picks.

The arrival of summer means longer days, less clothing, and chilled wine (for me, at least). For some, summer is also the season for rebounding from awkward DIY hair experiments. Remember when growing out bangs used to be the biggest seasonal hair hurdle? Well, shout out to all the micro beauty trends on TikTok because now folx are growing out their very visible invisible layers or just realizing they took the butterfly haircut way too literally. Then there’s dealing with increasing temps and humidity in some locales. Help us! 

Jennifer Behr. Gigi Burris. Eugenia Kim. Lele Sadoughi. If you know, you know. If you don’t, let me tell you. These names mean more hair accessory options: more headbands, head scarves, turbans, visors, and bucket hats. Headgear knows no bounds these days. The latest proof is the balaclava and ball cap being the hit cold-weather accessory of 2022. 

But as peak wedding season arrives, headpieces are an alternative to stressing over the 'do, especially for the surrounding festivities. Add Free People, Zara, and A-Morir to your list for nuptial-friendly adornments. These pieces are more modern than fascinators, just as chic, and would make Isabella Blow proud. 

Coachella kicked off festival season, and there’s nothing like starting your outfit brainstorm headfirst or punctuating a sweat-friendly look with festive and irreverent headgear, from macrame to straw hats. Milliners continue to bring heaps of imagination to straw hats and visors. Even luxury brand Eugenia Kim introduced a Mother’s Day-themed capsule collection with a lavish blush-colored straw visor. 

You don’t actually need a reason to wear any headgear. It's simply another way to express your style and not think too hard about your hair, so say less. Find 12 of my favorite hair accessories — from ornate headbands and designer scrunchies to festival-ready bucket hats and more swoon-worthy headgear — well, ahead.

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. The 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.



Lele Sadoughi Jet Velvet Headband


Lele Sadoughi has the knotted headband game on lock. Nothing says "sophisticated," "proper," and "yes, I have my life together" quite like a black velvet hair accessory — even if you're totally faking it 'til you make it. This best-seller procured 5 out of 5 stars from 105 on-site reviews. Per one happy customer: "This is my go to headband everyday, it's so comfortable! I wear it with my hair up and down, makes me feel put together when I just need to get up and go!"

Shop Lele Sadoughi

Lele Sadoughi JET VELVET HEADBAND, $, available at Lele Sadoughi

You Go Natural Paradise Open T-Shirt Turban


Whether you're rockin' fresh summer box braids or taking your 'fro out of hibernation, it's always helpful to have a colorful turban on standby. You Go Natural's T-shirt turbans are crafted from cozy jersey knit with protective satin lining. (Bonus: You have 18 colors and patterns to choose from.)

Shop You Go Natural

You Go Natural PARADISE OPEN T-SHIRT TURBAN, $, available at You Go Natural

Asos Design Crochet Bucket Hat With Happy Detail


New York-based stylist and fashion editor Rashida Meggett said it best — knitwear is, in fact, "warm-weather It wear." The fabric continues to dominate the fashion industry with groovy party dresses, funky tops, and now crochet bucket hats. The accessory may not protect you on rainy days, but it will elevate your summer 'fit.

Shop Asos

ASOS DESIGN Crochet bucket Hat With Happy Detail, $, available at ASOS

Ganni Cotton Crochet Bucket Hat


Ganni's 100% organic cotton bucket hat is available in both a muted, earthy hue and an electric yellow, multi-colored one. Pop it on for a lovely picnic in the park or to make the most out of a bad hair day.

Shop Bloomingdale's

Bloomingdale's Cotton Crochet Bucket Hat, $, available at Bloomingdale's

Mango Raffia Beret


Yes, festival fashion also includes berets — specifically those of the palm plant variety. This straw hat is easy-going, delightful, and ideal for relaxed warm-weather fashion.

Shop Mango

Mango Raffia Beret, $, available at Mango

Zimmerman Post Card Crochet Hat


Zimmerman's crochet cap is a modern spin on the traditional straw hat, but it also makes for chic festival attire. Just replace the classic uniform weaving with unique crochet patterns, swap the original stiff structure with a relaxed fit, and shrink its size just a tad for a more casual appeal.

Shop Shopbop

Zimmermann Zimmermann Postcard Crochet Hat, $, available at Shopbop

Fendi Hair Foulard


With the revival of Y2K fashion came an increased demand for frivolous accessories — Coco Chanel said to take one thing off before leaving the house. Meanwhile, the trends of the early 2000s promoted piling on 20 more bracelets. Take your teenage scrunchie game up a notch with a luxury silk Fendi hair tie and scarf combo.

Shop Fendi

Fendi Hair Foulard, $, available at 24S

Ganni Patchwork Denim Bucket Hat


Sometimes patchwork can be a little intense, but this Ganni bucket hat only flirts with the classic look. The contrasting denim and decorative stitching has us sold.

Shop Ganni

Ganni Patchwork Denim Patchwork Bucket Hat, $, available at Ganni

Gigi Burris Millinery Sharina


One does not add the best-selling Gigi Burris beanie to their carts for head warmth. Rather, one orders this unisex cap for its stylish structural flair and luxury craftsmanship. Often found atop the heads of celebrities (Billy Porter, Skepta, and Ne-Yo to name a few), the Sharina is a timeless, versatile accessory that's worth the investment.

Shop Gigi Burris Millinery

Gigi Burris Sharina Punch, $, available at Gigi Burris

Jacquemus Le Bob Artichaut Hat


Looking like a fisherman sometimes comes with the bucket-hat territory — but, instead of rebuking the possibility, lean into the accessory's innate nautical charm with Jacquemus's cotton beach hat. The blue and yellow headgear features a quilted brim, adjustable chin strap with engraved silver hardware, and cotton lining.

Shop Ssense

Jacquemus Blue & Yellow 'Le Bob Artichaut' Hat, $, available at SSENSE

Ceremonia Frida Headband


Refinery29 knows and loves this Latinx-owned brand for its effective hair care, but also for its collection of adorable accessories — especially the Frida Headband. Come for the refreshing lilac hue and shiny satin finish; stay for the lightweight feel and comfortable, thick hair-friendly design.

Shop Ceremonia

Ceremonia The Frida Headband, $, available at Ceremonia

Eugenia Kim Arianna Headband


Eugenia Kim's understated straw headband Arianna doesn't dare to distract from or overpower your outfit. Add it to your closet, and it'll only complete your summer looks from here on out.

Shop Shopbop


Eugenia Kim Arianna Headband, $, available at Shopbop

ASOS DESIGN Padded Headband In All Over Pearl Design




Shop ASOS

ASOS DESIGN Padded Headband In All Over Pearl Design, $, available at ASOS

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An Extra 20% Off Nordstrom Rack’s Summer Styles? Yes, Please!

The beauty of Nordstrom Rack can also be one of its greatest pitfalls — the retailer’s inventory of discounted goods from a seemingly endless list of brands is so vast that it can wear out the most fervent of online shoppers. And for a limited time, you can save an extra 20% off on select already-discounted summer styles. But, instead of succumbing to its bottomless pit of sale selections, we decided to embrace it. Just in time for the warmer seasons, we pulled out our shopping magnifying glasses to suss out the best discounts that Nordstrom Rack carries. (Friends, it’s a lot.)

Although lackadaisically perusing those IRL aisles or clicking hours away online is definitely its own form of retail therapy, sometimes scoring the best price on the best brand in one fell swoop is just what the shopping doctor ordered. We narrowed our highlight reel down to 22 winning buys, including everything from pastel heels and maxi house dresses to cute swimsuits and comfy slides. Take a look ahead at all the must-have markdowns happening at Nordstrom Rack right this second — and pardon while we dive back in to search for more.

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. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.


Ray-Ban 54mm Polarized Wayfarer Sunglasses, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


VYB Gingham Strappy One Piece Bikini, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Steve Madden Dion Heeled Sandal, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Elan Spaghetti Strap Midi Slip Dress Cover-Up, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


BOHO ME Smocked Maxi Dress with Slit, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


We Wore What Scoop Neck One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Maaji Yellowstone Magnific Cover-Up Maxi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Elan Smocked Waist Cover-Up Pants, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


VYB Solids Wide Band Bikini Bottoms, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


RACHEL Rachel Roy Ribbed One-Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Chloé 54mm Gradient Cat Eye Sunglasses, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Elodie Gingham Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Steve Madden Daphnee Braided Block Heel Sandal, $, available at Nordstom Rack


L Space Revolutions Ribbed Colorblock Crop Top, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


90 Degree by Reflex Superflex Elastic Free Waistband Bike Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Democracy AB Tech Rolled Hem Denim Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


VIX SWIMWEAR Eyelet Kiara Crop Top, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Mia Lexa Slide Sandal, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Zella Interval Woven Run Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


BLANKNYC Hi Rise Rigid Distressed Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Mia Ellen Platform Sandal, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


ISABELLA ROSE Smocked Cover-Up Crop Top, $, available at Nordstrom Rack

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5 Uniqlo Basics To Keep In Your Summer Style Rotation

Open your closet and take a step back. If the questions “What do I wear?” or “Did I have that on last week?” are lingering in the back of your mind, we feel you. Yearning for a seasonal fashion refresh is understandable — even if our bank accounts say otherwise. Luckily, rebuilding a summer wardrobe from top to bottom isn’t the only solution to this style conundrum; sometimes you just need one or two new foundational pieces to pull a fresh look together. Allow us to point you in the direction of Uniqlo, a trusty reader-favorite retailer known for its affordably priced and high-quality basics. For instance, you can easily find under-$50 staples like breathable flare dresses, perfectly cut cotton T-shirts, and effortless linen shorts — all available in a wide range of sizes (from XXS to XXL) and kaleidoscopic colorways (black and off-white are, of course, a given). Below, browse five excellent Uniqlo basics we deem more than worth keeping in your style rotation as summer-outfit building blocks. (The shimmering accessories and fashionable handbags can wait.)

Linen-Blend Shirred Sleeveless Dress, $49.90

The A-line style of this linen-blend frock is chic yet laid-back. Also, the shirring emits a fit-and-flare silhouette if you were looking for something beyond Y2K-inspired mini dresses. It comes in four playful colors — off-white, orange, green, and navy — so you can bring a little color to your wardrobe this season.

Ribbed Henley Cropped Tank Top, $14.90

A cozy ribbed tank top is like a blank canvas. It opens the door to a world of creative style opportunities, and there is always room for more. Uniqlo’s Ribbed Henley Cropped Tank Top is designed to be your new treasured piece with its soft cotton fabric and variety of colors. After one wear, you won’t be able to help going back to collect the other summery options.

Terry Easy Shorts, $19.90

Introducing the shorts that’ll get you from the couch to the gym. There are no more excuses for ignoring your friends’ calls to come work out with them. These soft cotton-polyester bottoms are roomy enough to lounge at home in and then wear for a jog around the neighborhood. They’re a one-and-done piece without the need for an outfit change, and they have a sporty piping detail on the flat waistband. That way you don’t have to worry about them slipping down.

Rayon Short-Sleeve Blouse, $29.90

Imagine an effortless, relaxed-fit button-up that’s wrinkle-resistant. Sounds too good to be true, right? However, Uniqlo’s Rayon Short-Sleeve Blouse accomplishes that. The high-low top is easy to care for as it has a blend of rayon and polyester, so it’s smooth and has a snuggly feel. When it comes to appearance, it has a professional flair that works for the office and sophisticated weekend brunches.

Linen-Cotton Shorts, $29.90

Set aside your denim cutoffs for a different day, and look at these adorable paper-bag shorts, which offer a fashionable touch with the drawstring waistband. They don’t lose the styling capabilities your usual jean shorts deliver: The linen shorts cinch at the waist to give shape, while the wide-leg cut allows maximum air circulation. Breezy and easy.

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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