Let’s introduce you to my friend, Casper, Founder of Wrap Happy Co, a joyful Australian brand reimagining how we wrap our gifts, blending playfulness with planet-friendly values. The magic started when the founder (yep, that’s our friend behind the happy hustle) realised that the usual waste generated from single-use gift wrap just didn’t sit right.
From that heart-tugging moment, Wrap Happy Co was born — a place where your wrapping choices make you feel genuinely good, every single time.
Explore her celebration collection here
What makes Wrap Happy Co so special? It’s the story: after searching for wrapping solutions that weren’t landfill-bound, our founder discovered a way to turn every present into a celebration of self-worth and tiny moments of joy.
The Wrap Happy Co collection is here to help you create fun, beautiful gift rituals. No eco-guilt, no complicated folding — just effortless, reusable wraps that brighten your celebrations and your conscience.
Curious? Peek at the playful options and imagine your next birthday, holiday, or just-because occasion with wraps that last and memories that matter.
Personal favourite? The Tis the Season Xmas Prints kithands down. It was dreamed up for those last minute “I need to wrap quickly” thoughts before Xmas. But with Wrap Happy Co, wrapping is now the easiest part — oodles of color, a touch of sparkle, and you get time back for what matters (like, enjoying the celebration!).
If you’ve ever wanted your gift wrap to feel like a treat — to your recipient, to yourself, and to the world — this is it.
And even better? Right now you can save 15% across sitewide with code WRAPHAPPY15. Try it out and discover how simple, joyful wrapping can make your celebrations shine.
Spring break is just around the corner, and many of us are gearing up for exciting travel plans. While packing your sunscreen might already be on your checklist for lounging poolside or hitting the beach, did you know it’s just as important to protect your skin during your flight? At Advanced Dermatology, we want to remind our patients that UVA exposure at high altitudes is a real risk, even while sitting in an airplane cabin.
Airplane windows may block UVB rays, which cause sunburn, but they offer little to no protection against UVA rays. UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin, contributing to premature aging and increasing your risk of skin cancer. At cruising altitude—where planes fly around 30,000 feet above the ground—the thinner atmosphere provides less protection from the sun, and the intensity of UVA exposure is significantly higher. Pilots and frequent flyers, for example, have been found to have an increased risk of melanoma due to this heightened exposure.
If you’re seated by a window during your flight, you’re directly in the path of these harmful rays. Even brief periods of exposure during a single flight can accumulate over time, putting your skin at risk. That’s why applying sunscreen before boarding is just as crucial as when you’re spending a day outdoors.
For optimal protection, we recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for products containing ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide a physical barrier against UVA and UVB rays. EltaMD® UV Clear ($43, 1.7 oz), skinfo® Pure Protection Ultra ($43, 4 oz), and Alastin® Hydratint ($24, 0.4 oz; $76, 3.2 oz) are a few of my favorites from skinfo®. Don’t forget to reapply if your flight is particularly long or if you plan to do some sightseeing immediately after landing.
At skinfo®, we’re passionate about raising awareness of everyday sun protection, whether you’re on the ground or in the air. If you’re planning your spring break getaway, prioritize your skin’s health by incorporating sunscreen into your travel routine. And if you have questions about the best products or how to protect yourself, we’re here to help!
When it comes to the “glass skin” trend, online experts are pushing intensive hydration to give a plump, dewy look but I’m here to tell, you can’t hydrate your way to achieving glass skin. As a 35 year expert esthetician, I’ll share with you how to truly get skin that is smooth-as-glass that you will absolutely love.
What Exactly is “Glass Skin”?
Glass skin is a term that refers to skin that is incredibly smooth, clear, and radiant and reflects light – almost resembling a piece of glass. It is defined as skin that is deeply hydrated, plump, and glowing with a pore-less and flawless finish. Sounds incredible, right? Let’s touch on all things glass skin.
The 4 Essentials for Achieving Glass Skin
Smooth-as-glass texture (free of bumps and blemishes with minimized pores)
Even-toned with minimal discoloration
Glowing / Circulation (a naturally healthy glow from within)
Moisture / Hydration (dewy, plump skin)
Let’s Touch on Texture
Clogged Pores
Clogged pores (known as “closed comedones”) appear as white-ish bumps on the skin. When you think of glass skin, the first thing that comes to mind is a smooth texture not bumpy. Clogged pores are not as round or firm as milia (mentioned below), but when left untreated, they tend to hang around for long periods of time.
Causes of clogged pores: Oily skin, wrong products for your skin type, pore-clogging makeup (I’m looking at you, cream blushes and highlighters!), heavy sunscreens
Renée’s expert advice: Receive manual extractions from an esthetician. This blockage in your pores WON’T go away on their own. Once you get them cleared out, the goal is to keep them clear with the following leave-on acid exfoliators.
Product recommendations:
BHA Clarifying Serum
Pore + Wrinkle Perfecting Serum
Thousands
Milia are hard, tiny bumps on the skin that appear when keratin and hardened oil get trapped below the skin’s surface. Milia are round and, because of how they look, are sometimes described as tiny “pearls.” The hardened oil gives them an off-white color, and they appear most commonly around the eyes, nose, and cheeks.
Causes of milia: Hyperkeratosis, heavy eye creams, smoking
Renée’s expert advice: Receive manual extractions from an esthetician. Just like closed comedones, these don’t magically disappear. Find an esthetician who is skill in extractions for removal. Dermatologists can remove milia, too.
Product recommendations: Overnight Eye Serum
Let’s Touch on Blemishes and Enlarged Pores
Blemishes
Blemishes can be in the form of whiteheads, pustules, or cysts. Acne can be very complicated but there are ways to prevent blemishes from forming and knowing what to do once they appear so you can achieve glass skin.
Causes of blemishes: Hormones, incorrect products, dairy, many unknowns, a case of bad luck.
Renée’s expert advice: See an experienced skincare professional who can help guide you to an action plan to give you results.
Product recommendations:
Anti Bump Solution
Rapid Response Detox Masque
AHA/BHA Blemish Control Cleanser
Rapid Response Detox Cleanser
Enlarged Pores
Enlarged pores are pores that have been physically stretched out by excess oil production or the loss of collagen. You most certainly can shrink these back to their original size. Otherwise, if your pores aren’t enlarged, their size is genetically determined, which means it’s impossible to make them any smaller than they’re meant to be. In this case, you can only minimize their appearance—not their actual size.
Causes of enlarged pores: Excess oil production, hormones, age
Renée’s expert advice: Regular use of physical and chemical exfoliants and retinol/retinoids
Product recommendations:
Pore + Wrinkle Perfecting Serum
Pro Results Power Serum
Triple Berry Smoothing Scrub
Advanced Resurfacing Serum
Let’s Touch on Skin Growths
Skin Growths
Skin growths are bumps on the face, neck, and body. They are usually benign (non-cancerous) and often begin as small flat or rough bumps.That said, it’s very important to keep an eye out for anything new or changing. Always schedule regular skin checks with your dermatologist. When in doubt, always get it checked out.
At first, these growths might be mistaken for clogged pores or breakouts, but they will never come to a head and cannot be extracted since there is no oil in them. Treating them with harsh, breakout-focused products will only result in dry, irritated skin.
Discoloration is an overproduction of a pigment called melanin. Genetics, sun exposure, hormones and injury to the skin are the most common causes. Once the melanin factory turns on, it can be hard to calm fussy pigment cells back down. This is why it’s so frustrating because they can take months to go away – especially the deeper your skin tone is.
Causes of discoloration: Sun exposure, heat, blemishes, pregnancy, aging, genetics
Renée’s expert advice: Products that fade/brighten, physical and chemical exfoliation, use SPF (during all daylight hours every single day of the year!), add an extra layer of protection with foundation makeup
Product recommendations:
HyperFix Fading Toner
Vitamin C + E Treatment
Triple Berry Smoothing Peel
Triple Berry Smoothing Scrub
Weightless Protection SPF 30
Let’s Touch on Circulation
Under-Circulation
How to tell if the skin is under-circulated:
When your skin is makeup-free, take your thumb and forefinger and gently pull on the apples of your cheeks. Using light pressure, quickly pinch the skin five times.
If your skin becomes a little pink, it’s likely that it has proper circulation.
If your skin doesn’t become pink, it’s more than likely under-circulatedand you’ll want to boost circulation. If your skin becomes red, your skin is likely over-circulatedand you’ll want to keep it calm with soothing (not energizing) products.
Basically, to get the glowing skin you want, the goal is for your circulation to be right in the middle—not too much, not too little.
Causes of under-circulated skin: Slow blood circulation, genetics, smoking, drug use
Renée’s expert advice: Hang your head upside down, facial massage, exercise, use stimulating ingredients, restoring the skin barrier
Product recommendations:
Mint Renewal Cleanser
Energy Boosting Toner
Triple Berry Smoothing Peel
Let’s Touch on Moisture, Hydration and Light-Reflection
Moisture Loss
Causes of moisture loss in the skin: Dryness (lack of oil), dehydration (lack of water), build up of dead skin, weather, topical prescriptions
Renée’s expert advice: The “Golden Minute Rule”, gentle cleansers, water infusion sealed with barrier repairing masque, creme or lotion
Product recommendations:
Moisture Infusion Toner
Skin Recovery Balm
Skin Recovery Lotion
Skin Drink Concentrate
Hydraboost Rescue Creme
Rest Day Masque
Let’s Touch on Your Glass Skin Action Plan
Take the Skin Type Quiz
Use products for your skin type
Get glowing #thereneeway
While “glass skin” is a trendy word and may go away, the goal of getting the skin to look smooth-as-glass will always be a desired look. I hope you enjoyed this post!
Celebrity Esthetician & Skincare Expert As an esthetician trained in cosmetic chemistry, Renée Rouleau has spent 35 years researching skin, educating her audience, and building an award-winning line of products. Her hands-on experience as an esthetician and trusted skin care expert has created a real-world solution — products that are formulated for nine different types of skin so your face will get exactly what it needs to look and feel its best. Trusted by celebrities, editors, bloggers, and skincare obsessives around the globe, her vast real-world knowledge and constant research are why Marie Claire calls her “the most passionate skin practitioner we know.”
The cast of Dancing With the Stars may make the cha-cha, foxtrot, and samba look effortless on screen, but they put in work behind the scenes. Sure, hours of rehearsals are part of the equation, but according to the show’s long-time physical therapist Gina Minchella, DPT, the stars’ recovery routine is just as instrumental in helping them take the spotlight week after week.
After all, injuries on DWTS can hinder performance (like they did this season with season 34 celeb dancers Alix Earle and Danielle Fishel), so Dr. Minchella has a playbook for keeping the crew healthy. “My approach is very preventative. It’s really taking on a lot of techniques that help prevent injuries,” Dr. Minchella tells SELF.
Over the last 13 years with DWTS , she has built a team of physical therapists who support the cast (both pros and celebs) throughout the season and the Dancing With the Stars Tour. Together, they design individualized and highly specific recovery routines depending on each dancer’s body.
Here’s how she keeps the team going during grueling workouts—and advice to incorporate her tips into your routine.
1. Focus on active recovery.
The cast of DWTS asks a lot of a few muscle groups—namely, the hips, lower back, and hamstrings. So, when Dr. Minchella programs an active recovery or stretching routine for the dancers, she tailors her recommendations with a special focus on the piriformis.
“The piriformis is always a culprit for hip pain and low back pain,” she explains, referring to a small muscle located deep in the glutes. A too-tight piriformis stresses the sciatic nerve, which runs from the base of your spine all the way down your leg.
To keep the piriformis loose, Dr. Minchella recommends two hip stretches: pigeon pose or figure four pose. A low lunge to stretch out the hip flexors is also a great option for the dancers, she adds. “I will actually manually stretch them by letting [the dancer’s] leg kind of hang off the table,” she explains.
The takeaway for dancers and non-dancers alike? Identify the key muscles you use for your workouts, and make sure to give them plenty of love. If you’re a rock climber, you may want to focus on your upper back, hamstrings, and forearms, for example. And runners may want to give love to their hamstrings, quadriceps, and glutes.
2. Treat your warm-up like part of your recovery.
Dr. Minchella considers warm-up routines to be an essential part of recovery. “They’re preparing their muscles and joints for handling whatever they’re taking on. Then the recovery period is even easier, and even more beneficial.”
This post contains ad affiliate links (denoted by a ‘*’) & gifted items (denoted by ‘ad – gifted). You can read my full disclaimer here.
I’ve always loved jewellery, but in the past year or two I’ve really honed in on my style, my everyday favourites and the items that I never take off. They are outfit makers, polishers even and they have the ability to put balance back into a look that just feels a bit off. I’ve realised that for me I like to blend chunkier, sculptural pieces with everyday lighter pieces, along with things like my rings and bracelets that stay put no matter what. So here’s what my jewellery wardrobe looks like…
NECKLACES
I own a few more necklaces than I’ll mention here, but really at the moment I’m switching between just two. I’m either wearing the Mejuri Curb Chain Necklace* (ad – gifted) – which I’d say is probably my top jewellery pick of the bunch – or the Lie Studios Elly Necklace*. Both are complete opposite ends of the spectrum and add a slightly different flavour to whatever outfit I’m wearing. The Mejuri I leave on, until I swap it out for the Lie Studios as that’s more of a daytime-only costume piece. But really there isn’t much decision making that goes on here – it’s either one or the other.
EARRINGS
Ok here’s where I play a bit. I’ll start with the simple one first. My everyday earring is a style from Mejuri which are now discontinued but are most similar to their Easy Medium Hoops*. Just a simple hoop, nothing crazy but I can sleep and shower in them and only ever take them out to swap them for something bolder. I just bought the Mejuri Sculptural Hoops* and they are truly beautiful – these two together would be the perfect dainty/bold earring capsule. Most of the bolder earrings that I wear though are from Lie Studios and I mostly switch between their drop-earring style, the Julie* or their extra large Camille Studs* (ad – gifted). You would have seen me wear both of these styles multiple times as it’s what I use most mornings to add polish to my outfit.
BRACELETS
I don’t really mix up my bracelets, mainly because my Apple Watch takes up most of the real estate on my wrist. So I just wear my Mejuri Round Box Chain Bracelet* (ad – gifted), with their Timepiece Bracelet* (ad – gifted). The latter is a little chunkier and the former daintier and I never take them off, only ever swapping them out if I’m at an event and want to leave my wrists bare. One day I’d love to add the Lie Studios Elly Bracelet* to my collection – it’s on my shopping list!
RINGS
I almost forgot to add this section in! I NEVER take these off, so they don’t register in a way. They are just part of me – literally – some I can’t remove! My engagement ring and wedding ring were from a local shop in Brighton (I think we got engaged almost nine years ago now and I STILL love my ring, so simple – Mark did so well!). Then on my index finger on my left hand I wear a very, very old black gemstone ring that Mejuri don’t even make anymore (the Solo Diamond Ring* is similar), with their Diamonds Line Ring* (ad – gifted) stacked. On my right index finger I wear the Mejuri Twist Ring* (ad – gifted) that I’ve owned for YEARS, on my middle finger their 2mm Smooth Band* and on my ring finger on my right a Claire Kinder ring that I picked up when we went to visit Shop Anomie in San Francisco.
You’ve definitely heard of smoothies by now, but what about smoothie bowls? These filling and nutritious breakfasts are just like smoothies but are made a bit thicker so they can be spooned up and topped with extras.
They’re perfect for those who like to sit and eat their breakfast versus sipping it from a straw (don’t know about you, but I can chug a smoothie in about 5 seconds flat…), and these are a super-easy way to pack in tons of superfoods, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Jump to:
Whereas the ingredients are all mixed in a smoothie,smoothie bowls are usually topped with something—like nuts,seeds,granola,fruit,or shredded coconut—to add nutrition,flavor,and textural variety.
Are Smoothie Bowls Healthy?
While having a smoothie is a simple snacking way to add more veggies and fruits to your diet,you can actually turn your smoothie bowl into a nourishing meal on its own. The trick is to create a combo that fuels your cells with all the nutrients they need to keep you going and satiated until the next meal.
As long as you go for whole ingredients and fresh fruits and veggies,staying away from refined sugar and saturated fats,your smoothie bowl is definitely a healthy meal.
Smoothie Bowl Ingredients
Smoothie bowls are a very simple and convenient way to nurture your body’s cells. A balanced diet needs a constant intake of:
fiber(oats,fruits,veggies,sprouts,and seeds—basically all of the ingredients coming from plants)) to eliminate waste and toxins and prevent them from leaking back into your system
fermented foodsto introduce healthy bacteria into your gut microbiome (yogurt)—note:the legumes and raw fruits and vegetables will maintain the growth of those healthy gut bugs
freshfruits and veggiesfor minerals,antioxidants,anti-inflammatories,vitamins—the list goes on and on
fresh greensare filled with chlorophyll,which boosts natural detoxification and bathes your cells in antioxidants
proteins(fresh fruits and veggies,oats,nut butter,cooked quinoa,beans,tofu) for an energy boost that will keep you active
healthy fats(nuts and nut butters,avocado,coconut,ground flax seeds,chia seeds) to nourish the tissues
A smoothie bowl is an ideal way to include all of these. Adding adaptogens and superfoods such as maca powder,bee pollen,ginger,turmeric,or spirulina is also a great way to boost the nutritional value of your bowl and add extra support to balance your metabolic processes.
Making one is almost as simple as making a smoothie. In fact,you can adapt nearly anysmoothie recipeto a bowl by using about ⅓ less liquid and/or adding in a thickener like silken tofu,avocado,nut butter,extra frozen fruit (bananas will make it extra creamy),yogurt,or even cooked cannellini beans.
Make sure to use as much frozen fruit in a smoothie bowl as you need to keep it thick;you don’t want your breakfast to be soupy,and you don’t want your delicious toppings to sink,either!
5 Steps to the Perfect Smoothie Bowl Recipe
Adjust these amounts to your desired flavor and thickness. Simply add everything into the blender,mix up and pour into a bowl before topping.
1. Pick a thickening protein (about 2 tablespoons)
Choose from:tofu,nut butter,Greek or coconut yogurt,cooked beans,flax or hemp seeds,oats
Note:chia seeds absorb liquid,so they will also help thicken your smoothie
2. Add a liquid (about ⅓ cup)
Choose from:water,coconut water,milk or non-dairy milk,veggie or fruit juice
3. Add fruit to thicken and sweeten (about 1 cup)
Choose from:fresh avocado or apples,dates,frozen bananas,berries or peaches,oranges
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Gina Jansheski,a licensed,board-certified physician who has been practicing for more than 20 years. Learn more about Hello Glow’s medical reviewers here. As always,this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
Forget what you’ve heard—there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to makeup. Makeup is meant to be used as a form of expression and to boost your confidence. However you choose to use it is entirely up to you. But the truth is,product selection and application techniques can impact the overall look,especially as our skin changes with age. “For mature skinI recommend light,luminous hybrid products that hydrate and blur,” says makeup artist Lucy Burt. Makeup artist Buster Knightagrees,saying,“Light reflective products are the holy grail for mature skin,not to be confused with glittery products. Dewy,balmy textures really help the skin to appear more youthful.”
After testinghundreds (yes,hundreds) of products across categories on mature testers and considering expert recommendations and insights,we’ve landed on these best makeup items for mature skin. These picks smooth the appearance of lines,add extra hydration,and remain budge-proof on mature skin.
Credit:Sephora
Knight recommends lightweight foundations for mature skin,as heavier formulas can settle into fine lines. This one has long been recommended by MUAs and Byrdie editors,thanks to how light it feels on the skin,how easily it blends,and how naturally radiant it looks. Our tester loved how well it blurred imperfections,noting she could build it up to nearly full coverage when desired,making it ideal for special occasions or more glamorous makeup looks.
Credit:Sephora
Tinted moisturizers are great for everyday wear because they tend to be hydrating,lightweight,and comfortable. This one from Hourglass checks those boxes and more,making it our favorite tinted moisturizer for mature skin. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid,plant-derived squalane,both powerhouse hydration ingredients that help keep skin moisturized throughout the day. It blends effortlessly and gives the complexion an even,but natural-looking finish,and our tester loved how it lasted throughout the day without emphasizing dryness or uneven skin texture.
Byrdie
Credit:Sephora
Surprise,surprise:We love the concealer version of our favorite foundation for mature skin. It features a lightweight,liquid consistency that blends easily and offers medium,buildable coverage. It’s formulated with vitamin E and glycerin to add hydration and help reduce puffiness,which is especially ideal when used under your eyes. Our tester appreciated its buildability,that it didn’t settle into fine lines near her eyes,and how nicely it brightened her under-eye area.
Byrdie
Credit:Sephora
A great makeup primer for mature skin adds hydration and glow without feeling heavy or looking greasy. We highly recommend this one from Saie because it has a gorgeous,luminous formula that’s loaded with nourishing glycerin,squalane,and rosehip seed oil. You can apply a light layer all over your complexion after moisturizer,or use it in targeted areas,like your cheekbones,to add more radiance.
Credit:Sephora
People with mature skin often avoid powder because it can be drying and ultimately accentuate dry patches and texture. But if you pick the right formula,like this one from Kosas,it can blur the skin beautifully and lock your complexion makeup in place. A light layer of this stuff removes excess shine without completely stealing your glow,and helps extend the wear of your foundation.
Credit:He deserves it
There are two schools of thought on which type of lip liner formula suits mature lips best. Knight recommends using a waterproof formula that resists bleeding into lip lines,though he cautions against a fully matte lip,which he says can make the lips look smaller. Burt leans on hydrating,blendable products,like this lip liner from Merit. She recommends using it to define the Cupid’s bow and center of the lower lip to create the illusion of fullness. While this liner won’t necessarily last through eating and drinking,we love that the sheer formula is blendable,easy to reapply,and super forgiving on fine lines.
Credit:MAC
Knight recommends opting for a creamy or balmy lipstick,which can make the lips appear plumper and more hydrated. This classic MAC lipstick formula is just that. It’s creamy,glides on smoothly,and never feels heavy or sticky on the lips. We love that it contains hydrating ingredients,like camellia seed and rosehip oils,comes in dozens of shades,and offers buildable color payoff.
Credit:Sephora
Both Knight and Burt love using cream products on mature skin because they’re easy to work with and add a dose of radiance. This cream blush from Makeup By Mario has a sheer but super-buildable formula,allowing you to achieve a subtle flush or a more vivid look when layered. It applies beautifully with your fingertips,a makeup sponge,or a blush brush,and creates a radiant finish that never crosses into greasy territory.
Credit:Sephora
“Cream eyeshadows are amazing for loose skin on the eyelids as they can soften the appearance of lines and create a reflective element that makes the skin look more supple,” says Knight. We adore this one from Charlotte Tilbury because it has a mousse-like texture that blends evenly with minimal effort. The shades are wearable and feature a bit of sparkle without being glittery or chunky.
Our tester appreciated how buildable this shadow is,so you can apply one light layer for a subtle wash of color or add more for greater impact. While the formula isn’t fully crease-proof,it’s so forgiving that you can simply tap out any creases with your fingertips.
Credit:Fenty Beauty
The best setting sprays for mature skin are those with a fine,even mist that lock in makeup and offer a natural,radiant finish,and this one does just that. It applies evenly,extends the longevity of your makeup,and is infused with hydrating and soothing ingredients,like hyaluronic acid,vitamin C,and niacinamide.
What to Look for When Buying Makeup for Mature Skin
Formula:Our skin gets drier as we age,which is why both Knight and Burt recommend looking for complexion products with lightweight,breathable textures that offer hydration and radiance. They also recommend opting for cream products,which can create a smoothing effect and add another layer of luminosity. When it comes to eye makeup,Knight recommends waterproof formulas and tubing mascarasthat won’t smudge on hooded eyes with loose skin.
Shade Range:Finding makeup that’s available in a wide range of shades is ideal,no matter your age. When it comes to makeup for mature skin,Knight and Burt recommend choosing soft,neutral hues that enhance your natural features. Knight says for eyeshadow specifically,he tends to avoid dark,matte colors on mature lids as they can make extra skin look more prominent.
FAQ
The best makeup for mature skin is what makes you feel most confident. However,makeup artists recommend opting for hydrating,cream formulas with radiant finishes to give mature skin an extra boost of luminosity.
“For mature skin,the mantra is little and layered,” says Burt. “Start with good prep,use hydrating,future-facing formulas,and always apply in good light with the right tools;quality brushes and a magnifying mirror make all the difference for a flawless,natural finish.
According to Buster Knight,your fingertips are your secret weapon. “Blending cream eyeshadows,blush,and lip products with your fingers is great on mature skin as it allows the warmth of your [fingertips] to melt the product into the skin,” he says. “This helps diffuse any edges,which is great when you have tricky extra skin to work with.”
Meet Our Experts
To find the best makeup options for older women,we consulted the following experts:
Buster Knight is a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with clients like Priyanka Chopra,Selma Blair,and Kris Jenner.
Lucy Burt is a professional makeup artist whose work has been featured on the covers of Vogue and Elle.
Why Trust Byrdie
Alyssa Kaplanis an editor,an experienced writer in the beauty industry,and a product tester specializing in cosmetics. For this story,she combined insights from multiple makeup tests for mature skin and consulted with two makeup artists with extensive experience working with mature clients.
Nearly a decade after leaving the White House,Michelle Obama says she’s “more confident about who I am.” The 61-year-old former First Lady sat down with Peopleahead of her upcoming release of The Looka coffee table book that traces her evolution through fashion,beauty and identity. Co-written with her longtime stylist Meredith Koop,it’s the first time she’s peeling back the curtain on what it meant to be one of the most scrutinized women in the world—and how she’s learned to care a little less about the noise.
Here are some of the most inspiring takeaways from her interview about the new release,which is available now for pre-order ahead of its November 4 debut.
On Self-Confidence and the Power of Standing Tall
“With each decade,I’ve grown wiser,” Obama tells People.“I think I’ve become more confident about who I am. This version of Michelle probably cares less about what other people think.”
That inner strength was instilled early. “Being a tall girl—I’m 5’11”—and my father was very clear about standing straight and owning my height,” she says. “It was like,‘You do not slouch. You are tall,you are beautiful.’ I think it started there.”
Even now,self-love is an intentional act. “I’m still working on,every day,waking up,looking in the mirror and telling myself that I am smart and beautiful,and kind and worthy,” she continues. “I don’t think that work ever stops for women,particularly women of color.”
On Beauty,Image and the Double Standard
As First Lady,Obama says she was hyperaware of the criticism that came with being visible. “I purposefully did not talk about fashion and beauty during the eight years in the White House,” she admits. “I was afraid it was going to take over everything.”
Her approach to style was deliberate. “I took the role as first lady very seriously. I was a famous person,but I wasn’t a starlet. And so that meant that the clothes could never speak louder than anything I had to say.”
Still,her choices made headlines—and sold out racks. “I liked the fact that,in hindsight,people identified with what I was wearing,” she reflects. “Because if I wore something and it could sell out,that meant that most women could afford to buy it. And I thought that’s a good thing.”
Criticism didn’t shake her,even when her bare arms sparked debate. “I took it for what it was,pure hypocrisy,” she says. “I could pull up pictures of Jackie O in a second and see this fashion icon in sleeveless dresses as first lady. So at a point you’re like,‘Oh,this is politics.’”
On Hair Freedom and Representation
Today,Obama says she’s loving the freedom of her go-to hairstyle:braids. “Braids allow me to get them done,and then that’s one less thing that I have to think about,” she shares. “When I’m out of the public eye,I am swimming,I am playing tennis and braids represent that kind of freedom for me.”
Back in the White House,she wasn’t sure America was ready for it. “The Crown Act hadn’t been passed yet,and just like fashion,I didn’t want my hair to become a distraction,” she explains. But her decision to wear braids for the Obama portrait unveiling was deeply intentional. “I wanted to send a message,add to the discourse of Black women in places of power,saying,‘This,too,is an appropriate and beautiful way to wear your hair.’”
On Health,Aging and Staying Vibrant
“I’m not wincing at my gray hairs,but I am coloring them!” she says. “My mother was the same way. She dyed her hair until the day she died.”
While she may credit genetics for her glow (“black don’t crack,” she jokes),she’s also consistent about taking care of herself. “My health has always been paramount—what I eat,working out,regular doctors’ visits,all the things that allow me to enjoy this time.”
And enjoy it she does. “I’m as vibrant as I’ve ever been,” she says. “My kids are grown and launched,they are healthy and happy. My husband is doing just fine. We are the former president and first lady,and so I feel like this is the first time in my life that when I say and do something,here in this interview,writing this book,these are my choices. Thatis freeing.”
…and why I’m adding the Wills Jacket in suede to my wardrobe.
This post contains ad affiliate links (denoted by a ‘*’) &gifted items (denoted by ‘ad –gifted). You can read my full disclaimer here.
*This post contains a collaboration with Sezane &gifted products
I have really taken my colour anaylsis on board and I’m trying to find a way to tranisition my ‘rich,deep and muted‘ colour brief into spring in a way that still feels like me but gives a nod to current season. Mustard yellow! Deep chocolates! And of course a sprinkling of animal print.You’ll find it all here in my latest edit. Sézane is such a good place to head for a spring refresh because whilst they have all the floaty silhouettes and floral fits,they also have a great range of muted colours that can ease even the most neutral loving amoung us into embracing just a bitof colour. So here I’ve put together an edit of my favourites from their new-in page and the standout pieces that I’d recommend adding to your shopping list…
SHOP THE SÉZANE SPRING EDIT
THE SPRING ESSENTIALS
Will Jacket* – I’d been banging on about this jacket since I saw it online in two new suede colourways. I’ve been a fan of the original jacket in washed black denim for a while,but the suede is where it shines. Wear it buttoned up as your shirt or over the top of thinner layers. It was a toss-up for me between the khaki and the mustard,but the buttercream yellow just edged ahead for the fact that I don’t own anything like it in my wardrobe. If you’re like me and love a neutral,this is a good way to ease yourself into colour because the tone is muted and rich it feels neutral-adjacent plus it looks so classic with a cream trouser or light-wash denim. I’d recommend going a size up from your usual for a more jacket-like fit,or go for your normal size if you want to wear it as more of a shirt.
Mateo Trousers* – Another area where I’ve been lacking in my wardrobe is in the trouser department. I don’t like anything with too much volume on the front as I feel like they swamp me,but sometimes it’s nice to have a more formal trouser to turn to. Sézane do this genre of trouser SO WELL. If you’re in need of a bottom-half option that could work in an office,or for a nice evening event,but could be thrown on with flip-flops and an oversized jumper at the weekend then look no further. And I cannot even begin to tell you how perfectly they fit (I went with the sizing advice on the website to size down and they were so right!). I really like the formula of wearing them with something more casual on top like the Will Jacket. OBSESSED with this combination.
Ciara Trousers* – If you’re a Substack girlie then you would have seen all the flared cropped trouser discourse,and these are such a great option if you’re in the market. The fit is close but the fabric has a nice amount of stretch to it,whilst still being thick making them another good work option. But they are also comfy enough for a working-from-home day too. I love the Audery Hepburn feel of them with a ballet flat (why not make it fun with these leopard print ones*?) and an oversized shirt. But I can seriously vouch for just how comfythey are,and that we love to see.
Kyle Cardigan* –How cute is this!?Sometimes it’s just nice to have something with a bit of feminine flair for spring,especially when you don’t fancy doing the whole floral thing. I’ve worn it buttoned-up here,but on the Sézane site it’s styled in a more relaxed way,unbuttoned with baggy trousers,and it looks just as cute. I could see me wearing this well into the warmer summer months,unbuttoned a little,but with a pair of linen wide leg trousers with the Romie bag thrown over my shoulder (see below!).
Romie Basketball* – Now this bag isn’t pictured here as I spotted it after I’d shot everything,BUT,I’m a big fan of the original Romie bag (seen below in the snakeprint),and now it comes in natural raffia?! Sign me up. I love a bag in a structured shape with a loose and summery texture,and this just ticks all those boxes. And don’t just reserve it for the height of summer. Wear it now with a navy trench,white jumper and jeans. The contrast of something heavier and more wintery,with the lightweight feel of the bag creates a beautiful balance. I’ve loved wearing my more classic ‘summer’ bags all through winter. It helps to spice up your hefty coats once you start to get bored of them,so think of this as a more year-round purchase.
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