Tuesday, November 14, 2023

I Didn’t Take Off This Tarnish-Proof Jewelry For Weeks — Even To Shower

I don’t know about you, but I absolutely hate having to take off jewelry to shower. It’s another step in my routine and in this economy, who has the time? That’s why I was eager to test out some of Pearlory’s affordable, tarnish-free, and waterproof jewelry. I hadn’t heard of the brand before, but am very happy that I’ve been introduced to it after having worn it for a couple of weeks straight now.

Designed for durability — and specifically to weather wear and tear from the summer sun, sand, and sea — Pearlory offers a range of jewelry produced using medical-grade stainless steel (which provides hypoallergenic benefits) and thick Physical Vapor Deposition gold plating (known for its tarnish- and rust-resistance). And with a name like Pearlory, of course there’s also pearl jewelry to peruse and enjoy (like the natural pearl necklace I got to try).

Like I said, I was initially eager to wear the pieces and test their durability in the shower and during sweaty workouts without knowing much about the brand. And now, having tried it, I’m eager to stock up on more pieces for myself and for holiday gifting because the brand’s Black Friday Sale just commenced, offering 25% off sitewide from now through November 30. That means that the already-affordable jewelry all comes in under $25 right now (hello, under-$50 luxury gifts!). Plus, if you spend $100, you get a free gift at checkout from select offerings, so it’s real can’t-miss deal.

Read on for my honest review of how well Pearlory jewelry lasted for me after wearing it for two weeks straight without taking it off at all.

Small Natural Pearl Necklace, $30.90 $23.18

Pearlory’s gold necklace collection includes dainty and chunky chains, intricate pendants, pearls and stones, and layered sets. I opted to try the Small Natural Pearl Necklace with an adjustable gold-plated stainless steel chain. I wore it on its tightest loop for a choker-like fit (to channel my inner Harry Styles, of course). I loved how each freshwater pearl was unique from the next and didn’t give that faux-pearl costume jewelry feel I was initially worried about. I even received many compliments on it and had friends asking me where I got it.

To truly put it to the test, I wore my Pearlory necklace all day, every day, not once taking it off for showers or for sweaty workouts. As per Pearlory’s instructions, I was encouraged to leave my jewelry on in the shower and to apply my normal lotions and perfumes without cause for concern. While the brand advises that wearers remove their jewelry for workouts and when going to bed, I didn’t abide by those rules because I truly wanted to see just how durable it was.

Not once was I met with with green-tinged skin while wearing it, and when I took it off after two weeks to carefully inspect the chain and clasps, not even a speck of silver metal peeked through the gold plating. This necklace passed my waterproof test with flying colors.

Lagoon Loop Minis, $28 $21

I love a gold hoop and generally only wear that style in my main earring hole, so I had to test these Lagoon Loop Minis. (But if this simple hoop style doesn’t tickle your fancy, Pearlory’s earrings also come in twisted, ribbed, bedazzled, dangling, and drop styles in silver and gold, as well.) I really put these earrings through the wringer, because beyond wearing them in the shower and sudsing up my shampoo all over them, I wore them under my headphones during workouts (steamy, I know) and to sleep every night (hi, side sleeper here).

First off, these earrings were so lightweight that I forgot I was wearing them half the time and they truly didn’t bother me while I slept, which earned them some bonus points. And yep, you guessed it: even after all the wear and tear, they didn’t tarnish at all. I will say that at the end of the two weeks, they did look a little dull. But after buffing them with the brand’s inexpensive polish cloth, they got their shiny luster back. I also think that if you follow the instructions and don’t rebel like I did, your jewelry would be less likely to dull as quickly (and you might choose to remedy any dullness in a more timely manner.

Bar Chain Bracelet, $28 $21

Now onto Pearlory’s bracelets. The predominately gold styles span chain and beaded bracelets, cuffs and bangles, tennis bracelets that you wouldn’t believe come in under $25, and even Apple Watch bands. I tried the Bar Chain Bracelet because I was looking for a thick chain option that I could pair with my everyday dainty fine gold bracelet.

I found this piece to be my least favorite of the ones I tried because of how large it fit on my wrist, even on the tightest loop. However, the sizing wasn’t dramatic enough that it slipped off and I did wear it throughout the whole testing period. I think that the brand’s advice to take off its jewelry before workouts would’ve served me well with this bracelet because I found that the center bar collected some scratches and became somewhat dull around the edges. But again, I have to give props because it didn’t actually tarnish, despite all my hand washing and showering.

Pearlory Rings ($26 – $30.90 $19.50 – $23.18)

While I didn’t test out Pearlory’s rings this time around, I’m eager to cart up a couple for myself (and a couple more for family and friends, especially since some of the “open” styles are adjustable and don’t require a specific ring size). The rings, which generally size up to a 10, are the most unique of the brand’s jewelry offerings, in my opinion. You can find everything from a smiley face signet ring to a snake wrap-around ring to truly capture you or your giftee’s style. And if the rest of Pearlory’s jewelry is any indicator of the rings’ quality and durability, then I’m sure you can trust that they’ll meet your expectations. Plus, all of Pearlory’s jewelry comes with a one-year color warranty, so you can really put your mind at ease and know that you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

Shop all Pearlory jewelry

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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7 Handbag Trends To Tote Around In 2023

While the fall season doesn’t necessarily need to mean a whole new wardrobe, it could mean it’s time for a new handbag. This essential piece for your next arm party may be available for purchase in all shapes and sizes, but it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. A handbag can be heavy. It can make or break an outfit. It can steal the sartorial spotlight… and not always for the right reasons. So if you’re wondering which purse is best for carrying (on) in the new year, we’re here to keep you on course with the biggest trends of 2023.

From the dystopian styles that have infiltrated runways to the Y2K comeback that has yet to cool down, there’s plenty of fashion fodder to sift through for accessories inspo these days. If you belong to the “pandemic killed the micro purse” camp, we’re happy to report that a scattering of more practical picks is in for the season ahead, along with some other more fanciful trends worth trying out.

Below, we’ve broken down the top seven handbag styles that are bound to be big throughout the year (though not always in the literal sense of the word).

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 or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Handbag Trend 2023: Utilitarian Style

“Futuristic utility” is a major style aesthetic this year, and bags are following suit, too. With the rise in popularity of cargo pants and compartment-rich coats comes a variety of practical purses to match. Think: lots of room, zippers, and pockets that are fashioned out of fabrics fit to take on all the elements.

Handbag Trend 2023: Forever Pieces

The combined influence of classic-core (capsule wardrobes, closet staples, etc.) and conscious shopping have many people gravitating toward quality over quantity. And it’s certainly no coincidence that brands have been dipping back into their archives to revive the iconic pieces of the past that have stood the test of time — from Prada’s ’90s-inspired Cleo bag to Gucci’s Jackie purse from 1961. Whether you’re interested in an investment purchase to last a lifetime or seeking out a retro-leaning silhouette, a sleek black shoulder bag is one of the smartest trends to grab onto this season.

Handbag Trend 2023: Top Handles

Ever the lady bag, these particular purses are not for slinging over shoulders or dangling off the elbow. Made to be handled with care, the look-at-me pieces command the constant attention of your fingertips… unless, of course, they come with a longer shoulder strap for days when you’re in a crossbody kind of mood.

Handbag Trend 2023: Styles That Shine

The sartorial energy we are carrying into 2023 is “shine on.” Ever since fashion week made its glittering return to in-person programming, there’s been an undeniably festive feeling across many of its runways. So when it comes to our closets, we’re compelled to keep the optimism party going with all that sparkles: metallic mesh, rhinestones, sequins, and diamanté details galore.

Handbag Trend 2023: Woven Fabrics

If you’ve got a Spidey sense for all things style, you’ll know that woven fabrics make for a web of chic options this season. Shiny leathers, smooth suedes, vegan alternatives, and puffer fabrics are among the range of materials that have been intertwined for your wearing pleasure. Look at it as Bottega Veneta aesthetic fit for any budget.

Handbag Trend 2023: Scoop Tops

The way toward finding your personal style this year might not necessarily come in the form of a straight line, and this extends to handbags. Architectural shapes may be adding structure to the chaos of our closets this season, but some of the edgier iterations of this trend feature a slight curve or dip at their enclosures to add a touch of whimsy to your look.

Handbag Trend 2023: Personality Purses

We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again: the best trends to try out are the ones uniquely suited to you and your mood. And with the style world fully leaning into kooky collabs and OTT outfits right now, there’s endless opportunity to find the perfect “thing” purse for your personality. Love love? Heart-shaped bags à la Alaïa — spotted all over street style — and Kate Spade have got you covered. New York or nowhere? There’s a bag for that, too.

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Monday, November 13, 2023

Behold: The Best Luxury Gifts Under $100

Consider the Shopping team not as Santa's little helpers, but as yours. We're here to make holiday shopping as easy breezy as possible, from unique gift ideas for your hard-to-shop-for friends to surfing the internet for the best luxury presents for moms. Speaking of luxury — since it's the holidays and you might be in the mood to spend a little bit more than $50, we've curated a list of lavish presents that won't blow your end-of-year budget. Behold: luxury gifts under $100. 

You'll find a splendid mix of home items like bakeware and martini glasses to ring in the new year along with the best fashion gifts, such as shiny pink brooches, jade green belt bags, and cozy shearling wool slippers. We've also cruised through Sephora's overflowing holiday gift sets and found covetable ones valued at over $500. If it all sounds too good to be true, it's not — click through to see it all. So happy shopping, readers. May your holidays be merry and bright. 

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.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Kate Spade Chelsea Belt Bag


Allow your busy-bee bestie to fly through their never-ending schedule with a sleek jade green belt bag. There are two zippered compartments, so they can organize it as they please.

Shop Kate Spade at Kate Spade Outlet

Kate Spade Chelsea Belt Bag, $, available at Kate Spade Outlet

Mikasa Party 10 oz. Stemless Martini Glasses, Set of 4


Decorate your giftee's sparse bar cart with a set of four stemless martini glasses that are sprinkled with festive gold stars and dots. The first toast is on us!

Shop Mikasa at Neiman Marcus

Mikasa Party 10 oz. Stemless Martini Glasses, Set of 4, $, available at Neiman Marcus

Atelier Mon Pink Stone Brooch


Fashionable brooches are the latest trend of 2023, and we're gifting mom, aunt, and grandma a sparkly pink one. The elegant oval shape with a double halo makes it a stunner from even miles away. 

Shop Atelier Mon at Anthropologie

Atelier Mon Pink Stone Brooch, $, available at Anthropologie

Lancôme Holiday Beauty Box


Give your mother the ultimate gift set with Lancôme's Holiday Beauty Box. The lavish set consists of 10 pieces of makeup and skin care at a value of $588. Who's ready to be mom's favorite child?

Shop Lancôme at Nordstrom

Lancôme Holiday Beauty Box, $, available at Nordstrom

Jenny Bird Sylvie Anklet


If your roommate has been on the hunt for a subtle statement piece, we've found a beautiful anklet from Jenny Bird. Consider it a modern strand of pearls. There's also a built-in extender for a comfy fit and an easy lobster clasp.

Shop Jenny Bird

Jenny Bird Sylvie Anklet, $, available at Jenny Bird

Quince Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse


Replace your sister's worn-out cotton button-up with a washable silk one from Quince. The silky blouses are available in a plethora of rainbow hues and offered in sizes extra-small to large, with select colors in sizes 1X-3X.

Shop Quince

Quince Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse, $, available at Quince

Gisou Honey Glow Icons Gift Set


What better way to treat your bestie — or yourself — to Gisou's best products. The set includes the iconic Honey Infused Hair Oil, viral lip oil, perfume, and more.

Shop Gisou

Gisou Honey Glow Icons Gift Set, $, available at Gisou

Caraway Circle Pan (Duo Set)


Gift all the bakers in your life Caraway's Circle Pan duo set and watch their eyes light up in delight. The slick ceramic coating makes it easy to clean up and is durable for healthy, nontoxic baking.

Shop Caraway

Caraway Circle Pan (Duo Set), $, available at Caraway

Parachute Shearling Wool Clogs


Everyone dreads the icy-cold floors during the winter. Allow everyone on your list, from mom and dad to your siblings, to be toasty warm with these fluffy clouds — I mean wool clogs.

Shop Parachute at Parachute Home

Parachute Shearling Wool Clogs, $, available at Parachute

Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Bundle


Here's to glorious, restful nights of sleep. Brooklinen has created a luxurious Mulberry Silk bundle to feel like kings and queens year round. Get a 20% discount on their cooling eye mask and ultra-soft pillowcase set for a limited time.

Personalize the set for each giftee, as you can mix and match with the various prints and colors, so everyone gets a unique set.

Shop Brooklinen

Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Bundle, $, available at Brooklinen

Shashi Gemini Drop Earrings


Mixed-metal jewelry is no longer a faux pas. Whether you like silver or gold, or you're always confused about which color suits you the best, these double-hooped drop earrings are a sophisticated pair to try.

Shop Shashi at Shopbop

Shashi Gemini Drop Earrings, $, available at Shopbop

Polène Airpods Case


Elevate your fashion-loving bestie's Airpod case with a high-fashion piece crafted from upcycled Polène leather. The quaint luxurious case has the thoughtful details of hand-stitched folds, a half-moon flap, an engraved snap, and a convenient key ring. This might just encourage them to take better care of their Airpods.

Shop Polène

Polène Airpods Case, $, available at Polène

Madewell The Mini Bag


Party the night away with a little itty bitty handbag for your trio of friends. There are three styles: an all-black one with a gold chain, this rhinestone embellished kind, and a handbags in the latest silver hue.

Shop Madewell

Madewell The Mini Bag, $, available at Madewell

Carhartt WIP Gabe Wool & Cashmere Logo Patch Beanie


For all the trendy gals out there, gift them a wool and cashmere beanie with a street-style touch. The dusty brown makes it a versatile piece they'll gravitate toward on the daily, while the turn-up cuff adds a laid-back appeal.

Shop Carhatt WIP at Saks Fifth Avenue

Carhartt WIP Gabe Wool & Cashmere Logo Patch Beanie, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue

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Flared Leggings Are Back In A Big Way — These Are The Best Way To Rock The Trend

You might have a pair of trusty yoga pants or black leggings in your closet, but if you're looking to upgrade your style, it's time to add some flares to your soft pants selection. Flared leggings are a 2023 fan-favorite style and many of our favorite soft leggings have been revamped with a subtly (or not-so-subtly) flared bottom in recent months. This updated take on everyone's favorite stretchy bottoms is perfect for elongating your legs, bringing a little bit of shape and curviness to an otherwise straight-legged style, and suiting a variety of occasions, from mornings at the gym to long nights at the office.

So walk with a little kick in your step with a flared pair and don't be surprised if they become your new go-to style. You'll find they add just the right amount of flair (sorry) to every look, from hiking 'fits to casual work ensembles.

Find your new favorite bottoms ahead, with flared styles from R29 reader-favorite brands like Lululemon and Free People. 

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.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Best Flared Leggings For Workouts


Fitted leggings can get a bit restricting during workouts. Flared leggings add some breathability to your workout 'fit and can be worked into your regular routine — whether it's pilates, yoga, or Zumba — with its airy style.

Shop Lululemon

Lululemon Groove Super-High-Rise Flared Pant Nulu, $, available at Lululemon

FP Movement Resilience Slim-Leg Flares


With a five-star rating from reviewers, these Free People flares are sure to become part of your regular rotation in no time.

Shop FP Movement

FP Movement Resilience Slim-Leg Flares, $, available at Free People

Athleta Elation Flare Pant


Not only have over 2,100 satisfied customers given these pants a 4.5-star average rating, certain colors are seriously discounted right now, too.

Shop Athleta

Athleta Elation Flare Pant, $, available at Athleta

Adidas 11 Honoré 7/8 Flared Leggings


With a five-star customer rating and savings of more than 50%, it'd be hard to find a reason not to buy these Adidas flares.

Shop Adidas

Adidas 11 Honoré 7/8 Flared Leggings, $, available at Adidas

Best Everyday Flared Leggings


There are those days when you scan your wardrobe, take one glance at your jeans, and realize hard pants are just not going to happen. Before you immediately slide into your go-to tapered black leggings, turn your gaze to a flared style instead. They still have the same comfort and ease of your favorite go-to pair, but bring more of a polished look to whatever you choose to pair them with.

Shop Torrid

Torrid Full Length Signature Waist Flare Pocket Legging, $, available at Torrid

Spanx Booty Boost Flare Yoga Pant


Buyers are obsessed with these bum-lifting flares, praising their comfortable fit and their non-rolling waistband.

Shop Spanx

SPANX Booty Boost® Flare Yoga Pant, $, available at SPANX

Madewell MWL Flex Flare Leggings


Not only are these Madewell faves available in three cute colorways, right now, you can take an extra 30% off their already discounted price with code LETSGO.

Shop Madewell

Madewell MWL Flex Flare Leggings, $, available at Madewell

Wild Fable High-Waisted Flare Leggings


Shop Target

Wild Fable High-Waisted Flare Leggings, $, available at Target

Uniqlo AIRism Soft Flare Leggings

UNHIDE WHEN BACK IN STOCK
Shop Uniqlo

Uniqlo AIRism Soft Flare Leggings, $, available at Uniqlo

Best Fashionable Flared Leggings


Who knew leggings could be so stylish? While flare leggings already have '70s-inspired appeal, we've found a few with extra pizzazz. Discover styles with waist ties that you can cinch, front slit details, and trendy crossover waistbands.

Shop FP Movement At Free People

FP Movement Hot Shot Kick Flares, $, available at Free People

Paige Sakai Faux Leather Leggings


The only thing more chic than flared black leggings? Flared black leggings in faux leather, of course.

Shop Paige at Anthropologie

PAIGE Sakai Faux Leather Leggings, $, available at Anthropologie

OFFLINE By Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Rib Super Flare Legging


With a high waist and exaggerated flares, these trendy leggings are perfect for folks eager to go bold with their look.

Shop Aerie

OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Rib Super Flare Legging, $, available at Aerie

H&M+ Flared Slit-Hem Leggings


Made with ribbed fabric and featuring a front-slit detail, these flares are the perfect stand-in for traditional trousers when paired with a slouchy sweater or structured blazer.

Shop H&M

H&M Flared Slit-Hem Leggings, $, available at H&M

Alo Yoga Airbrush High-Waist Cinch Flare Leggings


Wait...did leggings just get — dare we say it— sexy?

Shop Alo Yoga

Alo Yoga Airbrush High-Waist Cinch Flare Leggings, $, available at Alo Yoga

TnAction Crossover Flare Hi-Rise Legging


Shop TnAction At Aritzia

TnAction Crossover Flare Hi-Rise Legging, $, available at Aritzia

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