Beyoncé’sCowboy Carter Tour has given us so many beautiful reminders to celebrate and honor Black girlhood. Even if you haven’t or don’t plan on going to a show, you’ve most likely seen Blue Ivy Carter serving as a dancer beside her mom or Rumi Carter adorably stealing the crowd’s heart and, as the internet puts it, clocking into work.
Knowing this, I was prepared for my own waterworks, but when I saw that the forecast for the May 28 show at MetLife Stadium, I was not ready for the impending, very real, relentless showers. I admittedly got irritated. I had been excited about this tour since it was announced in February and reading Editor Dontaira Terrell’s piece about her experience at the show the first night had me even more hype. But as I put my cowboy hat over my poncho and trekked my boots through the parking lot puddles, I had to remind myself that seeing Beyoncé perform (my eighth time!) was the reward — even if it did rain during the entire concert.
Though the Cowboy CarterWorld Tour is a reflection on Beyoncé’s work, there are significant moments that pay homage to the youth, joy and tenderness of Black girlhood.
taryn finley
I couldn’t have imagined the emotional baptism I was about to experience. From “American Requiem” to “Amen,” Bey sang with the passion, depth and vocal athleticism that can only be achieved with God’s touch and more than three decades of hard work. The churchy call-and-response during “Why Don’t You Love Me,” the combined nod to the “Bills, Bills, Bills” video and her haircare line Cecred, and the Renaissance medley were more than enough to prove she’s one of one.
And though the Cowboy Carter World Tour is a reflection on Beyoncé’s work, there are significant moments that pay homage to the youth, joy and tenderness of Black girlhood. Most notably while singing “Protector” with wet-n-wavy hair and singing to a crowd, a cold and drenched Bey professes her love for her girls surrounded by a pyramid of her dancers. Blue Ivy— who’s all up and down this tour — hovers right above her, enveloping her mom and little sister in an embrace.
“I feel proud of who I am because you need me,” Beyoncé croons right before Rumi, 7, comes on stage, joyful, light and fearless. These are some of the purest qualities of childhood that the world tries to rob Black girls of from an early age. Seeing the most powerful performing artist in the world give us a visual representation of what it looks like to revere and protect that light was significant. And it felt even more potent as the rain continued.
Even moments when Bey wasn’t on stage felt femininity persevering. Violinist Ezinma shared on her Instagram that she had never played in the rain. Yet she killed it while self-proclaimed “Trap Ballerina” Trinity Joy and movement artist Jahaira Myers gave a contemporary dance performance of a lifetime on a slippery stage. The crowd was mesmerized watching tap dancer Kaitlyn Sardin riverdance to “Flamenco.”
While “16 Carriages” mourns the childhood Bey sacrificed for her career, she uses Cowboy Carter to honor the child that’s still inside of her, giving us glimpses of little Bey and paying homage to her country roots the way that she wants to. And she prompts us as an audience to do the same while lifting up the next generation.
The messaging of this tour, and this Act II era Beyoncé is in, has been incredibly potent. But there was something uniquely beautiful about watching it all take place in the rain. In Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon, she wrote, “You wanna fly, you got to give up the s**t that weighs you down.” Watching Beyoncé dance in the rain with her daughters — along with my seven girlfriends — felt like the weight of the world was washed away and I could fly. Funny enough, the rain stopped at the very end, right before Bey sang “Amen.”
Watching Beyoncé dance in the rain with her daughters — along with my seven girlfriends — felt like the weight of the world was washed away and I could fly.
Witnessing Bey, her girls, and the rest of the performers proffer a declaration to our liberation felt like a spiritual awakening. It felt like they were imploring us to be carefree and color outside of the lines. And it was a reminder that we don’t have to work to earn the ease and joy it takes to dance in the rain.
Beyoncé takes her Cowboy Carter Tour to London next where she’ll be from June 5 to 16.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Ballet flats have long been a wardrobe staple — the ultimate choice when sandals feel too exposed, sneakers too casual, and heels too fussy. But this season, the timeless silhouette is getting a playful upgrade, with designers embracing texture, whimsy, and a dose of nostalgia.
Mesh styles — which soared in popularity over the past year — have evolved into a modern essential, with fresh takes featuring bold embellishments from bows to embroidery. Jelly ballet flats unlock peak childhood memories in grown-up, glove-like fits — and bonus: they’re waterproof, making them perfect for those sudden summer rain showers. Mary Janes feel newly charming in colorful linens and woven raffia, while darling crochet styles bring handcrafted, wanderlust-inspired vibes to any look. And if you’re craving color, butter yellow is the seasonal standout (do we sound like a broken record yet?) — soft, sunny, and surprisingly wearable.
Though undeniably classic, ballet flats are especially appealing right now because of their balance: playful yet practical, timeless yet trend-forward, wearable yet anything but boring. Whether you’re pairing them with workwear for a commute, a summer dress on vacation, or denim shorts on a hot and steamy day, this summer’s wave of ballet flats delivers something for every aesthetic.
Ahead, we break down the standout styles to shop now — each one primed for repeat wear all season.
DashDividers_1_500x100
Best Ballet Flats: Timeless Leather
Classic and versatile, leather ballet flats that never go out of style. With clean lines, soft materials, and sweet bow ties, these shoes are easy to pair with just about anything in your summer rotation.
Best Ballet Flats: Mesh
Mesh ballet flats had a major moment last year — and they’re not going anywhere. This season, the trend feels more refined: sheer neutrals, delicate embroidery, and sleek studs that add texture without the weight.
Best Ballet Flats: Mary Janes
Mary Jane ballet flats are still going strong — now rendered in fresh, personality-packed, and heatwave-ready designs. From sunny stripes to colorful linen and woven raffia, these playful updates add charm to even your most laid-back summer looks.
Best Ballet Flats: Yellow
We’re in peak butter yellow season, and ballet flats are a fun way to work the shade into your summer rotation. From soft leather to breezy mesh, these sunny pairs brighten up everything from denim skirts to easy dresses.
Best Ballet Flats: Woven Leather
Woven leather is a great way to add texture while still keeping things timeless. Stick with a round toe for a more classic feel, or opt for a square toe and higher-cut vamp if you’re leaning modern.
Best Ballet Flats: Jellies
We have The Row to thank for putting jelly flats back on the map — and this summer’s versions are even more playful. Red and blue remain fashion crowd favorites, while bright green and pink feel especially fresh in mesh fisherman styles and cutesy Mary Janes.
Best Ballet Flats: Crochet
These textured flats offer a handcrafted feel that’s sweet, feminine, and decidedly low-key. Whether styled with flowy dresses or denim cutoffs, they add a dose of charm without feeling fussy.
Best Ballet Flats: Satin
The ultimate balletcore pick, satin flats bring a soft, dressy touch that works just as well with a summer wedding guest dress as they do with an evening outfit. They instantly make even the most casual pieces feel more intentional.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
It’s been a strong year for haircut trends — and we’re only halfway through. From “ghost layers” (invisible layers that add movement to fine hair without an obvious grow-out) to the “kicked” bob (a shoulder-skimming cut with chic, flipped ends), there’s something for everyone.
As we head into summer, a wave of new cuts and styles is hitting top salons. Expect much shorter chops (anything to get hair off your forehead) and subtle twists on timeless classics (aero bob, anyone?).
There’s no need to look any further for your inspiration. Ahead, a handful of hairstylists from London to Los Angeles share the 19 cuts they predict will dominate summer and beyond.
Federico Vazzoloretto, creative director at Taylor Taylor London, predicts the aero bob — weightless, airy, and full of movement — will be the bob du jour this summer. “It’s a breezy younger sibling of the classic bob,” says Vazzoloretto — “less about rigid shape and more about light layering and softness.” Think Kaia Gerber and model Simone Powderly. The aero bob is ideal for fine to medium hair, especially those looking to enhance natural movement without heavy styling, says Vazzoloretto. It also works well with waves and curls. “Expect chin-to-collarbone length with a gentle texture that catches the light and the wind,” he says. We love this airy bob on Nithi, posted to Instagram by Adequate Hair Studio.
Celebrity hairstylist Lorraine Dublin says the sculpted tapered cut, as seen recently on Lupita Nyong’o, is ideal for summer. “Think of a modern twist on the classic tapered afro: closer on the sides with volume on top,” says Dublin. This cut on Yrsa Daley-Ward is beautiful. “The sculpted tapered cut is low-maintenance and works beautifully with tighter curls and coils, emphasizing natural texture while keeping the neck and sides cool,” Dublin adds.
“Imagine long, ultra-glossy hair with soft cascading layers that melt into one another — that’s how we would describe the glass cascade,” says Vazzoloretto. He explains that the cut maintains its length while introducing barely-there movement through subtle layers and face-framing pieces, creating a look that feels grown-up, not “girly.” Vazzoloretto adds that it’s ideal for those with medium to thick, straight or slightly wavy hair, and anyone looking to modernize their style without sacrificing length. Sofia Richie Grainge and Jodie Turner-Smith are the ultimate inspiration, but this cut by hairstylist Selena is also stunning.
The luma cut is a step up for curls and waves, says Neil Moodie, editorial stylist and founder of The Neil Moodie Studio. “It enhances natural shape with seamless layering and soft internal graduation, giving hair a halo-like effect around the face and crown,” explains Moodie, adding that it’s designed for movement and light reflection. “It’s perfect for anyone embracing their natural texture — but with a modern silhouette,” says Moodie. Look to this style and color posted to Instagram by Mayssa Deeb.
Hairstylist Tom Smith bills the Riviera bob as an upgrade to the much-loved Italian bob: “The Riviera bob shape is slightly more shattered and relaxed — it’s summer’s answer to this popular bob shape.” He explains that the naturally ruffled, blunt-cut style has just enough movement to feel fresh, while still maximizing volume for a look that’s luxurious. “This is ideal for fine to medium hair,” says Smith, “but thicker hair types can also enjoy this shape with more considered shaping and layering.” He suggests asking your stylist for a straight bob that sits just below the chin, like this style on Bianca Onici. “[Then add] some soft, very long layering. It should be cut with a piecey and shattered finish,” says Smith.
“Kelly Rowland’s classic bob style isn’t going anywhere,” says Dublin, “but this season it’s all about structure and personality.” Think rounded ends, plenty of layers, and defined curl patterns that move, says Dublin, much like this style on actor Yasmeen Scott. “This cut is ideal for type three and four curls [if you] want shape without sacrificing length,” says Dublin.
The pixie is having a moment, and Eddie M. Parra, senior stylist at BENJAMIN Salon NYC, says it’s sticking around. This summer, though, the short crop takes on a more whimsical feel, like this cut by Caja on Instagram. “It’s all about short, soft layers, hugging your head shape with longer pieces around the face,” explains Parra. “We’re already seeing this cut on the red carpet — think celebs like Tyla and Nicole Kidman.”
“This is a reimagined, super-luxe take on the classic shag,” says Vazzoloretto. “Think sculpted layers, tailored face-framing pieces, and a whole lot of personality,” — like this cut by Ryenne Snow. “It’s edgy but wearable, with serious volume and movement.” Why is it trending? “We’re seeing a rise in maximalist hair, the kind that speaks volumes — literally,” says Vazzoloretto.
“This is a cool little bixie that’s easy to maintain,” says hairstylist Laura at London-based salon Crab Salad. The style blends a bob with a pixie cut, featuring longer face-framing pieces and choppy bangs, á la Winona Ryder in the ’90s. This particular cut by Crab Salad’s Toby nails the look.
Celebrity hairstylist and colorist Dimitris Giannetos says bobs are great because they’re incredibly versatile. “The bob off duty is a graduated cut that is styled with a lived-in feel,” he says, referencing a recent look he created on Gigi Hadid: “I wanted to let a little more natural texture show through, but still keep that iconic hair flip at the bottom. It looks effortless and wearable for everyday, but it’s still very chic.”
Dublin pinpoints the bold buzz cut as one to watch: “Rihanna’s minimalist yet expressive ultra-short cut — like buzz cuts and skin fades — is being elevated with etched patterns, color play, and texture-focused styling,” she says. “It’s a bold trend for those embracing ease, edge, and full curl liberation.” We love this close curly crop on digital creator Gabrielle Janay.
“Overly styled beach waves or perfect curls can feel a bit ‘try-hard’,” says Smith. Ghost waves, on the other hand — relaxed waves enhanced by subtle layers — offer a natural-looking texture that suits everyone. Look to digital creator Nicole for inspiration. Smith explains that while ghost waves work best on hair with some natural texture, they can also be styled into other hair types with the right technique, like using a curling iron and turning it in different directions to avoid the spiral effect. “If you have naturally wavy or curly hair, [distribute] your favorite curl-defining product [from root to tip] and air-dry,” says Smith. “Only scrunch if your hair gets too straight after brushing, and don’t touch it until it’s fully dry.”
“The poolside bob sits just at the jawline,” say Stephen Buller and Anita Rice of London-based salon Buller + Rice. “It’s neat, versatile, and ideal for the summer. While it can be worn classic and sharp, the real fun lies in its wet-look styling,”— like this cut by Miho Mai. When slicked back and tucked behind the ears, it has a modern, accidentally perfect feel about it. They suggest combing through the Davines Shimmering Mist, $38, or OI Oil, $53, while damp, tucking hair behind the ears, and letting it dry naturally.
“This haircut is perfect for my long-haired girls,” says Parra. “Think soft, romantic layers that create movement throughout the hair.” Parra cites Sydney Sweeney and Ayo Edebiri as key inspirations, but we love this style by Vivian Brown. Even better? You don’t have to blow-dry it to perfection every single time you wash your hair: “A cut like this is perfect for air-drying, especially at the beach this summer,” Parra adds.
“I love the ‘brat’ cut for summer,” says Giannetos. The inspiration? Charli XCX, of course — though Amelia Gray is another great reference. “This cut has long, messy, and undone layers,” he says. “It’s a low-maintenance style that’s great for the summer season, especially if you’re on the go.”
The bob isn’t going anywhere, and this summer it’s getting boxier and sharper. According to Parra, the style exudes quiet luxury: “A completely balanced, straight bob cut is minimalist,” he says, but the impact is major. “It varies from jaw length to collarbone length,” adds Parra, “but it’s always super chic and timeless,” — like this cut by Scott Youngson.
The power crop is a sharp, structured pixie-meets-bob hybrid defined by clean lines and confidence, says Moodie. “This cut sits at cheekbone level with subtle undercutting or texturing to add movement without sacrificing precision,” he says. Look to this cut by Miho Mai. “It’s sleek, bold, and low-maintenance — perfect for professionals and creatives alike who want an edge without the upkeep,” adds Moodie. Better still, it grows out seamlessly thanks to its uniform length.
Crab Salad’s Toby highlights fang-style bangs — short, sharp pieces — as a bold, loud, and unapologetic haircut trend set to hit salons this summer. It’s not for the faint of heart. We love this cut by hairstylist Isabella.
“The roadie is all about leaning into what your hair naturally wants to do, not what’s trending,” say Buller and Rice. “It’s got a nod to the early ‘00s — think the Olsen twins’ ‘I don’t give a fuck’ chic.” This style suits anyone with natural waves or texture, according to Buller and Rice. Introducing medium to long layers and face-framing pieces adds volume and texture. A texture spray like Davines Salt Spray, $32, will help add movement to your lengths. This look by Grace Amelia at Hershesons is beautiful.
This is a futuristic update to the classic bob, asserts Moodie: “It’s blunt yet fluid, and often paired with micro-bangs,” he says. The neo bob nods to the ‘60s and ‘90s, but with a modern twist, adds Moodie. Thanks to its mirror-shine finish, bold lines, and optional hidden layers, it feels fresh and wearable this summer. Take cue from this cut by Miho Mai.
Not unlike a classic pixie cut, the fitpix is a practical, unfussy, cropped style, but still has personality, say Buller and Rice — like this cut on digital creator Talia Cardoso. “It’s short, textured, and doesn’t need a whole lot of styling, so it’s great if you’re active, working out, or just prefer to keep things easy,” they add. Buller and Rice advise asking your stylist for plenty of texture while being clear about your preferred length. “P!nk’s recent buzzed crop is close, with a beautiful, delicate texture to it, while Brie Larson at the 2025 AMAs showed how this cut can be styled sharp and clean, yet still be feminine,” say Buller and Rice.
This story was originally published on Refinery29 UK.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
I’m exhausted by the “quiet luxury” trend. The understated look, popularized by brands like The Row and Totême and cultural drivers like Succession, has dominated the fashion industry for nearly two years — causing the market to feel saturated with lackluster, albeit universally appealing, basics. As a result, those with a more alternative sense of style (like me) are left craving something edgier and grittier, like an asymmetrical silhouette, playful textile combinations, or some eye-catching adornments — something with a more distinctive personality. Thankfully, I’m not the only one looking to disrupt the khaki trench coat haze, and designers across the fashion industry are taking cues from the punk movement by refreshing a timeless motif that has also fortified me during trying times: a piercing.
While my early experience with piercings was sneaking off to New York City at the age of 17 to visit a dubious smoke shop-turned-piercing parlor on St. Mark’s, designers are proposing something different — using piercing-like designs to adorn every garment and accessory imaginable. Versions of metal horseshoes, captured bead hoops, and barbells can now be found on everything from shoes to bags, shirts to skirts, sunglasses to belts, and more. Whether you’re simply a fan of the look or have real piercings of your own, incorporating them into fashion is a way to engage with the trend without committing to the trials and tribulations of body modification, pain, or aftercare. Can’t (or don’t want to) get your nipples pierced? Try the Skims push-up bra or the Mugler bodysuit with a faux set of embellishments.
The very act of piercing is deliberate, combined with a bit of pain and determination, so using piercings in clothes and accessories creates a sense of impact. Punk subcultures have used piercings as a vehicle of self-expression and rejection of societally-imposed beauty standards since the ’70s, and the “other-ness” of having piercings created a sense of belonging among people who had them. While piercings today are more widespread and accepted by mainstream society than they used to be, utilizing them as adornments in fashion still seems to be a rebellion of sorts against the “beige-wash of quiet luxury,” as Ssense womenswear buying director, Isla Lynch, puts it. “The introduction of piercing and hardware to classic silhouettes has offered a subtle edge and individuality to dressing again,” she tells Refinery29.
And while piercings are certainly not new to fashion, Tory Burch’s Pierced Mules and Pierced Slingbacks, leather flats with metallic hardware at the toe, seemed to kick off the latest wave of embellishments. The designer debuted the styles as part of the brand’s spring/summer 2023 collection, and they became so popular that Burch began adding the metal detail to nearly every shoe style — from sandals to slides, pumps, and wedges — before recently expanding to pierced tote bags. Celebs including Elizabeth Olsen, Mindy Kaling, Ella Emhoff, and Joey King have been spotted wearing various versions of the shoe; fashion editors everywhere endorsed the style. The style was a stark, refreshing change of pace for the brand, which was — until then — known for preppy, classic designs.
Today, several other luxury labels are leading the charge. Lado Bokuchava has designed numerous shoes, bags, and garments adorned with silver hoops and horseshoes in recent seasons. Melitta Baumeister incorporated chunky piercings on various tops, boots, and gloves in both spring/summer and fall/winter 2025 collections, while Aknvas showed a pierced dress and matching scarf in its spring/summer 2025 collection. Among other accessory iterations, Déhanche designed a belt with dangling hoops, while brands like Dezi and Arcus sell sunglasses fitted with studs and barbells.
Justine Clenquet, founder and designer at her namesake brand, has created a business around necklaces, bracelets, and earrings embellished with piercings of their own. “I think the trend reflects a desire for more personal and expressive fashion,” Clenquet tells Refinery29. “It’s a way to play with identity,” she explains, but notes that the concept is far from new, given that “brands like Vivienne Westwood [and] Jean Paul Gaultier have been doing it since the ’90s.”
Indeed, the punk influence has been alive and well in fashion for decades. Gaultier and Westwood were among the first major designers to incorporate body piercings into high fashion, a time when body modification was still considered somewhat subversive. Gaultier and Westwood sent models with facial piercings down the runway at their spring/summer 1994 and fall/winter 1993 shows, respectively. Shortly after, piercings became the focal point of John Galliano’s 2004 collection of “Hardcore” bags for Dior.
Today, these vintage pieces are some of the more rare and expensive designs on the resale market. Dior’s coveted Hardcore Pierced Saddle Bag is hard to come by and, depending on the condition, can easily cost upwards of $5,000 on resale sites. For comparison, a plain black saddle bag of the same calfskin fabrication from the same year can be found for as low as $1,750 on some sites. Even today, the pierced version of Balenciaga’s Le Cagole bag is often priced at over $1,000 more than its plain black counterpart.
As a perpetually gender-dysphoric nonbinary person, the piercing trend resonates with me in a way many other fashion fads don’t. Throughout my life, piercings have helped me reclaim my body and gender. I had more than 15 by the time I graduated college, and still distinctly remember the euphoria I felt after seeing my eyebrow piercing for the first time — I felt like I finally recognized the reflection looking back at me in the mirror. While embedding metal into my clothes, shoes, and accessories doesn’t quite achieve the same feeling, in some ways it has a similar effect: imbuing confidence in my self-image and instilling a feeling of protection, almost like armor. Metal is fortifying, and as I still mourn my body’s rejection of some of my piercings over the years (RIP), at least my wardrobe can still bridge the gap and still make me feel at home in my fleeting visage with faux metallic accents. Body piercings are only semi-permanent after all, but a pierced purse is forever.
Though the majority of people shopping this trend might not be in the midst of a lifelong battle against societally-imposed gender norms, the heavy metal look still speaks to its wearer’s desire to subvert prescriptive aesthetics. While the impact of a pierced bag isn’t quite the same as flesh-and-blood modification, they’re both a means of self-expression and, in many cases, self-confidence.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Welcome toMoney Diaries where we are tackling the ever-present taboo that is money. We’re asking real people how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we’re tracking every last dollar.
Today: a consultant who makes $124,000 per year and who spends some of her money this week on a check leaf she thought she wouldn’t have to buy again.
If you’d like to submit your own Money Diary, you can do so via our online form. We pay $150 for each published diary. Apologies but we’re not able to reply to every email.
Occupation: Consultant Industry: IT Age: 26 Location: NYC Salary: $124,000 Assets: Liquid: ~$25,000 cash across HYSA and CMA (brokerage-hosted cash management account). I have these separated into buckets: emergency fund (which is the biggest), vacation, taxes, etc. ~$325,000 in long-term investments across pre- and post-retirement accounts, which includes $170,000 in a taxable brokerage, $34,000 in a Roth IRA, $1,000 in a rollover IRA, $110,000 in a 401(k), and $14,000 in a HSA. I contribute to a company ESPP but recently I sold a bunch of shares in order to diversify my portfolio internationally and beef up my cash. I own no properties. Debt: None, other than a revolving credit card balance which I manage and pay off regularly. Paycheck Amount (Biweekly): $2,400 (but fluctuates depending on what is being expensed during that pay period). Pronouns: She/her
Monthly Expenses Housing Costs: Currently I live in an apartment with one roommate. It’s $1,952.49 for my portion of the rent, including a flat fee for the transaction. We split shared apartment items such as cleaning supplies, big furniture, and utilities — it’s approximately $100-$130 per person for variable utilities split in a two-person apartment. Renter’s Insurance was paid upfront for the year and split. Loan Payments: $0. I had $100,000 of student loans which I paid off. Phone Bill: $30 (my portion of a legacy family plan). House Supplies: $50. This is a budget for shared apartment items like cleaning and pantry items that my roommate and I share. Gym: $108. Subscriptions: $35. ~$20 of this is for Patreon personal development subscriptions. The rest is Apple music and Crunchyroll Fan. For these, I cycle subscriptions because I don’t want to pay for too many at once. I also utilize free ad-based services like Tubi. Liquid Savings: $500. I have different savings buckets and reassess what I allocate every quarter depending on how my priorities change but I’m always contributing to my emergency fund. Investments: $500. This fluctuates depending on what I have leftover after debt, expenses, and savings. However I will contribute post-tax either to my brokerage or to my Roth IRA.
Annual Expenses
Botanic Garden Membership: $75 for the year for multiple gardens. Easily worth the initial outlay and it supports the garden. Renter’s Insurance: $150 for a one-year quote (paid upfront because it was a better deal).
Was there an expectation for you to attend higher education? Did you participate in any form of higher education? If yes, how did you pay for it? Absolutely, this was a non-negotiable cultural and familial expectation. I am a second-generation immigrant; I earned my bachelor’s in science. I am fortunate enough for my parents to have covered $100,000 of my total tuition, which amounted to two years. I was accountable for the last two years, which was another $100,000 of federal and private loans. Once I graduated, tackling those pesky high-interest private loans was top priority. I took full advantage of the six-month no-interest grace period for new graduates and the extended COVID-19 interest pause. I lived at home, worked, and adopted a super-aggressive payoff strategy. I told myself I would do nothing but work until I paid off these loans and sacrificed my social life for the most part. Having my priorities straight was essential to success. Through all four years of college, I worked part-time jobs to cover my lifestyle and food expenses. I am not one to regret over things that cannot be changed (and that’s on growth), but if I could go back I would attend a different university and I would be much more strategic with my first two years.
Growing up, what kind of conversations did you have about money? Did your parent(s)/guardian(s) educate you about finances? Put simply, money was tight growing up. Growing up, my upbringing was not easy for many reasons — but everyday I am so grateful that my parents had good financial habits, especially since I was a big natural spender as a kid. They instilled solid habits early on (bank accounts, credit cards in high school, being frugal, etc.) but they approached money talks very differently. One parent shielded us from it completely, while the other laid everything out in excruciating detail. My sibling and I witnessed and overheard many arguments about money. I’m ultimately grateful for hearing the hard truth about our situation, but it instilled early fear around money. I was raised to live below my means, prioritize getting “good jobs”, and to adopt a sustainable lifestyle that helps the planet, not harms it. My family composts, recycles, reuses, reduces, and has never lived the life of overconsumption that is normalized today. I say this because only when I became independent did I fully see that a lot of people don’t care about this, which is so sad to me. All of these remain constant in my lifestyle today, no matter what my income is.
I have a core memory related to this question: fighting with one of my parents over my 401(k) contribution at my first job as a kid that offered a 401(k). I wanted to contribute less and keep more cash; they pushed for 10%, which was them settling with me. They won, begrudgingly for me (thankfully, they were the only people in the world as stubborn as me). Looking back I learned that money wasn’t disappearing — it was being stored for future me to thrive. This was definitely the first seed that was planted that made me the saver I am today. Another big money lesson is related to mindset. Over time, I developed a mindset where money felt more important than anything else: not out of greed, but out of survival and insecurity. I truly believed that my mental health could take the hit if it meant making financial progress or securing financial opportunity, because I could recover from anything due to my strength and resilience. That belief served me for a while… Until it didn’t. I eventually learned (the very hard way) that mental health is the foundation.
What was your first job and why did you get it? My first job was as a waitress at a small local restaurant as soon as I was of age. I was looking to make some cash to cover my own spending and anything fun I wanted instead of solely relying on my parents.
Did you worry about money growing up? Absolutely. I mentioned money was a contentious topic. Another unexpected contributor to money concerns was school. My parents made a lot of sacrifices in order to get us into a great school. But I was constantly made aware and was self-conscious of how different our socioeconomic status was to others. We lived in a strong school district which was full of super rich families. And I mean rich. McMansion rich. Luxury cars at 16 once they got their driver’s permit, an array of designer bags to school everyday rich. We were in different worlds in more ways than just money. But I do remember stepping into someone’s McMansion for the first time in my life and being flabbergasted by how someone would have such tall ceilings and that much space, though I kept it off my face. Hopefully. Probably not. Now this is all kind of funny because luxury couldn’t impress me less.
Do you worry about money now? Ever since an income stream went really wrong, yes, although I try not to. It’s a pattern I’m trying to break. I’m a natural over-analyzer and worrier, and I’ve lived through enough hardship to know that nothing is guaranteed. No matter how lucrative or promising any person’s success is, historical success does not guarantee future wins. The mighty rise and the mighty fall and the arrogant and apathetic tend to get eaten up for breakfast. Consulting and tech has been super unstable as well. My company has had more than 10 rounds of layoffs (and counting) which fuelled money fears, but I’ve focused on gratitude and an abundance mindset around the fact that I still have my job and have the ability to control my miscellaneous expenses.
At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and do you have a financial safety net? I have two answers. Mid-college, once I was responsible for my tuition, and then two years ago, after I started living on my own. The gap in between I was living at home. But reaching full independence involved a lot of personal work. It took a few years of confronting and changing my self-centered financial habits and systematically cutting out things I relied on them for. Yes I do now, to the second question. When I was living at home I couldn’t invest in emergency savings and also pay down my student loan debt. So I prioritized building that bucket after I moved out. Recently I finally had a fully-funded emergency savings pot.
Do you or have you ever received passive or inherited income? If yes, please explain. No inherited income, but I did have a passive income stream… that I didn’t fully understand. It was promising at first, but it blew up fast. The aftermath was as ugly as it was situationally inevitable and holistically necessary for my growth. I went through a breakup, lost my entire friend group (a toxic one, so definitely for the best) and my best friend, and ended up in massive debt. The emotional fallout was tough, but the financial one was the most difficult. What came after sent me into the lowest period of my life thus far. I had made good money early on for a short time in exchange for years of deep suffering, constant fear, and borderline financial ruin. This period shattered my old beliefs. I confronted how fragile mental health actually is, how it should never be taken for granted, and how without it, other things pale in comparison. Because my mental health did recover… Five years later, this year, when I finally let go of some of the last residual trauma. I still carry the scars from that time, but I came out of it as such a wise and realized version of me, with stronger habits and a clearer sense of self.
Day One: Thursday
7 a.m. — Day one of a new project so I’m up bright and early. I was placed on this project with just one day’s notice, but that’s the nature of consulting. Still it’s rough because starting today I’m adjusting to an entirely new routine, which means my sleep is taking a heavy hit — so yes I woke up on the wrong side of the bed today. Still, I am excited for the opportunity to build a normalized routine again.
7:11 a.m. — My day starts with a simple morning routine and breakfast. I make my favorite iced coffee at home (condensed milk, espresso from my Breville Bambino Plus, milk. My take on Vietnamese coffee. 10/10) and eat a half-meal of just an egg fry. I put on makeup, spray some perfume, and I start my commute, apprehensive about entering the rush hour commute. $2.90 (Expensed)
8:45 a.m. — Special entry for this train ride because wow. It’s a line I usually never have to take and all of the rush-hour crowds and their moms are out. If there’s one thing I hate it’s being shoved in a metal tube like a can of sardines with no personal space. No amount of my love of big city living will change this. I occupy myself with some music. My choice for this morning is Frank Ocean’s “Super Rich Kids”. Every time I listen to this song I low-key feel like the main character in a movie.
9 a.m. —- I get to the office I’ll be at for the next month. I get my badge, meet the office managers, and get a tour of the office. I’m surprised by how intimate the office is, size wise, and how impressive the amenities are. This role is in finance so I’m excited to see how this industry works behind the curtain.
10 a.m. — I’m oriented to the office for the most part. I have a desk! I spend some time looking at the place. I find that this office has an array of drinks, snacks, and optional building amenities that no one else seems to care about. I’m talking about the big brand stuff — the cold brew, Gatorades, all of the flavors of seltzer, sodas, you name it. Every random type of potato chip and tiny milk chocolate bites that I will definitely grab way too many of while I’m in this office. I love to explore a new place and note my favorite corners.
12 p.m. — A big plus about this project is that I get a full lunch hour, and I use it. This office is in Midtown Manhattan so I decided earlier on to spend my lunch break outside. I buy lunch out at the salad bowl place next door to the office. Honestly I’m not that impressed, but food is food. Because it’s my first day, I didn’t want to meal prep while also adjusting to a very different sleep schedule. I’m big on making my life as easy as possible for “future-me” both physically and mentally. So I enjoy half of my lunch at a local park and sit in the sun. $16.65
5:15 p.m. — My first day comes and goes. It was a fairly light day. Another big plus of this project is that I get to leave the office at a set time. Having set hours like this is pretty rare for consulting so I’m cheery and enjoying this while it lasts. I leave my building and stop by Trader Joe’s. I track my expenses weekly and last week was super expensive for take-out spend because I neglected grocery shopping and didn’t have as much time or energy to cook. Eager to do better, I pick up some essentials and good-to-haves. I focus on my grocery list: just necessities that contribute to big recipes (easy breakfasts and my next weekly meal prep). I’m proud of myself as I leave the store because I didn’t pick up any of those delicious novelty temptation snacks waiting for you at each corner. $30.65
6:05 p.m. — I take the train back home and am absolutely bombarded by rush hour traffic. As I hinted at, I’m an introvert and rush hour on the train is particularly overstimulating for me. By the time I get back I am drained. I’m supposed to meal prep but I throw my stuff down, change, and leave the house. $2.90 (Expensed)
6:30 p.m. — Whenever I feel drained I opt for a quick reset in nature. My go-to is the nearest botanical garden if it’s open, followed by Prospect or Central Park — whichever is closer. I spend some time walking around and soaking in the rolling meadows, trees with so much life in them, and picturesque views, feeling my battery recharge almost immediately. I paid for the annual membership already, so no cost to enter.
7:15 p.m. — The rest of the evening is a full reset. I find a recipe for a replica Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl which tastes phenomenal. It takes some time to prepare each of the individual pieces (marinate and cook the veggies, sweet potatoes, chicken) but it’s well worth it. This is my lunch for the week. I spend some time preparing for tomorrow today (what I call PTT). I choose my outfit for tomorrow (Artizia pants, Cotton On T-shirt, Everlane blazer) and pack my purse (Freja Paloma). Then I shower, journal, and spend the rest of the night turning in early (aka, I stay in bed and watch The Apothecary Diaries. Don’t @ me!)
Daily Total: $47.30
Day Two: Friday
8 a.m. — Today is Friday! Make no mistake: I snoozed my alarm twice. Clearly I’m still trying to adjust to the new schedule. I’m one of those people who wishes I was a morning person but totally accepts the fact that I’m not. Miss me with the 5 a.m. days! I get out of bed, wash my face with my standard routine (face wash — this one is Vanicream, super gentle and simple — and sunscreen. Usually I use Banana Boat which ran out so I have a Supergoop to finish up), and make a quick breakfast. I whip up a parfait of sorts with honey Greek yogurt, frozen mango and berries, and apple-flavored granola. Of course I make my iced coffee because no morning is complete without it. This project is in the office five days a week so I have to commute today. $2.90 (Expensed)
9 a.m. — I’m stirring in my seat in the office because I’m a bit anxious. I need to leave the office early today to see my dentist and see my accountant to start my taxes. They are back home (where my parents live), which means they are not quickly accessible to me, but the commute is worth it to me because I trust them, and I am not willing to undergo a hunt to replace them. This means I have to take some time off for the afternoon and leave work. My company-side team lead is cool with it but I still need to give the client-side office manager a heads up. I am a bit stressed about this because it’s a brand new project and this is my first week.
11:30 a.m. — Everything works out with leaving early today! I heave a sigh of relief. I also get some great news from the client office manager that Fridays are super slow so I can leave early and WFH on Friday afternoons. Yay for me! It’s so nice to hear, because who wants to be in an office at 5 p.m. on a Friday?
12 p.m. — I leave the office with some office snacks in hand. I don’t reach for Gatorade and Doritos on a regular basis but there is something magical about eating them for free — it makes them so much more appealing. I take the train out of New York and then a bus. $12.10
1:30 p.m. — After the train and bus I have to take an Uber to get from the bus station to my parents’ place. $12.98
2 p.m. — I make it back to Mom and Dad’s. I have some time before I have to leave for the dentist. so I tour the house, making sure everything is intact (you know, no broken ceilings, leaks, robbers, squatters, or giant bugs that’ll sneak up on me at night). I water my mom’s plants and put away some dishes.
2:30 p.m. — After giving the house an OK I leave. Driving after being in the city used to be a weird adjustment but I’ve gotten used to it (though I hate driving). The dentist visit goes smoothly. Then comes the accountant visit. I’ve been asked why I don’t just do my own taxes since mine aren’t complex and the answer is because of that passive income hustle experience. One major part of the aforementioned aftermath was the total nightmare that was tax time. I had promised myself, as a motivator to push through, that once I got through this I would outsource my taxes to an accountant. It’s been WORTH IT, plus I adore my accountant. After some confusion with this year’s taxes, we get it done — it turns out I have some extra tasks to complete when I’m back in New York.
5 p.m. — I’m finally done with appointments and my mouth is slightly numb. I spent a little more time than needed staring at the lopsidedness in the mirror of the car, but all of it is done and I feel great. I go back to my parents’ place to unwind. I’m working on enjoying the moment, so I choose to not rush to leave. I end up reflecting on how different life is here versus in the city. This is a quiet home in a quiet neighborhood. It’s a house — not a tiny pre-war New York apartment. As I eat a bowl of strawberry cereal I ruminate over how I actually love living in a walking city. (Side note: Remember PTT, my principle of planning for tomorrow today? Yeah, well, past-me knew that I would probably be back at my parents’ soon and left future-me one of my favorite childhood breakfasts: strawberry cereal — the one from Special K which now only has a quarter of a strawberry in it, but who’s counting? The amount of self-love I feel in this moment is incredible.)
6 p.m. — When I’m ready I book another Uber to get to the bus station for my commute back. As I start the journey I lament about not being able to stay all weekend, but know that it is necessary and no one else is here anyway so there’s no point in staying. I may have a bill for the dentist so I make a mental note to check, but do not know if I do yet. $15.92
7:30 p.m. — One bus and train later and I’m back in New York. I’m exhausted when I get back and turn in for the day to prepare for tomorrow. I take a hot shower while blasting Kendrick Lamar and SZA (“30 For 30”!!). Later I dread the thought of cooking dinner; I don’t like to cook but I need to survive, which is why I meal prep like anyone’s business. I end up making air-fried roasted veggies with some light seasonings (highly recommend an air fryer compared to an oven, saves on gas!) and enjoy some smoky vanilla black tea for the night. $12.10
Daily Total: $53.10
Day Three: Saturday
9:30 a.m. — It’s the weekend and I couldn’t be more excited. For one I don’t need to wake up at the buttcrack of dawn today. As I lay in bed I do a body scan and realize I need R&R after the back-to-back changes to routine, so I make today about slow movement and feeling good. I start my day by recharging before the cleaning bug hits me. Honestly I love a good deep clean. It’s restorative. I believe my outer world reflects my inner world so I keep my environment organized and clean. It helps me stay grounded when my space reflects the peace that I want out of life. I should be getting ready to leave but instead I find myself throwing my bedsheets in the washer, fluffing out my duvet, wiping down my desk and kitchen surfaces, and sweeping.
10 a.m. — Recently I realized I need to enjoy life more and change things up for the better. I resolved to learn to enjoy cooking by mastering the basics and finding a few staple dishes. Most times when I say I don’t like a certain activity it’s because I’m bad at it. Today I tried to make three-ingredient (or so) pancakes with some of my sourdough starter. I add frozen mixed berries AND chocolate chips because otherwise it wouldn’t be a breakfast pancake (duh). It was a huge success!
10:50 a.m. — I leave the apartment and pay for the train to take me to my first mystery destination. It’s sunny with a breeze that brings the weather to a brisk spring vibe. I opted for my favorite Pirouette skirt from Popflex (absolutely addicted to this brand!) and a large white knit sweater that I got from a Brooklyn stoop sale. $2.90
11:15 a.m. — I get some personal work done at a new cafe I’ve never tried. There’s broad windows, lightwashed stone architecture, and nature everywhere. I choose a tiny nook that’s encased by the largest Monstera leaves I’ve ever seen. Then I buy a specialty iced coffee (dulce de leche!?) and enjoy the warmth of the sun. I have some finance tracking and net worth tracking to review (my favorite time of the month!), as well as general end of month retrospecting, shadow work, personal finance writing, and all of those little tasks that built up from my tax session. I spend a lot of time in this place, get a lot done, and bookmark this spot to return to later. Nothing feels as fulfilling as getting a lot of stuff done and the reward/post-glow of being productive (yes, I’m a Capricorn). $6.53
1:20 p.m. — I leave once I begin to feel brain-fried. I walk around until I stumble by a pier near the water that outlooks the New York skyline and spend some time enjoying the views. Rather impulsively, I stop by an ice cream place that I’ve never been to and enjoy a blue jasmine passionfruit swirl (!?) ice cream cone. Buying overpriced ice cream is one of those things I’d never normally do, but I received a discount and today is a day where I’m doing meaningful things for myself I wouldn’t normally do. It’s so delicious and I choose to sit down in front of the water and enjoy it in the moment instead of rushing to the next destination which was worth a lot more than the ice cream alone. 10/10. $5
2:25 p.m. — My day is not over yet — I am spending most of it outside. Personally I am so sad to see the “death of free spaces” happening everywhere, but particularly in New York. I work really hard during the week and in general, so I really value having time to reset in solitude, in nature, and ultimately to not have to pay to vibe and exist. But it’s not about the money — it’s about the experience. I end up stopping by one of the New York Libraries and end up admiring the architecture instead of checking out a book. Support your local library!
4 p.m. — I stop by another coffee shop with a friend and buy a coffee. No surprise there. I love exploring new coffee shops as a major coffeeholic. I look for unique aesthetics but also a good working vibe and comfort factor and most of all, delicious and quality coffee. There’s a lot of spots in the city that sell terrible quality coffee and charge you for $10 just because the aesthetic is great, which is wild to me. All of the coffee spots I go to are locally owned and ethically sourced so I enjoy it guilt-free, sort of. $8
7 p.m. — I take a train back to my apartment ($2.90). I realize that my roommate and I are low on quite a few things, starting with kitchen stuff. I have some time so I pick up some oil and vinegar from the nearby store and split the cost ($10 for my share). $12.90
9 p.m. — Once I’m home I have to set my bed back up. I do my skincare routine which I keep simple (double cleanse with Josie Maran oil cleanser and Vanicream cleanser, sometimes I apply chemical exfoliant toner, then Laneige water mask and lip balm), brush and floss my teeth, and read my book of choice for the month. I’m reading Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins which is a page-turning read. I watch another anime — this time it is a romcom because I’m in a mood and the protagonist is relatable af (Kaichou wa Maid-sama, anyone? Where are my OGs?!). I watch this much longer than I should and end up falling asleep after midnight. No regrets.
Daily Total: $35.33
Day Four: Sunday
9 a.m. — Wake up naturally today and lounge in bed for awhile. I bought a new duvet cover this month which has been incredible. It’s the Quince sateen duvet cover in the clay color and it’s breathable and comfortable. For some reason the first thing I remember to do is to finalize some plans with other people, so I pay for an event I am going to attend next weekend from my phone. Then I sign up for next month’s Meetup club. It’s a career networking event that I adore, and it’s a lot less stuffy than your average networking event. I leave my bedroom at last and wash up via my morning routine and then prepare my breakfast. Of course I make my standard coffee and then I prepare an avocado toast with brioche bread, hummus, and an egg on top, plus various Trader Joe’s seasonings. $10
2 p.m. — I take the train and a transfer to get to a different part of the city for a workout class (I prepaid for it through a ClassPass trial for $5). This one is a lifting-based strength class called Liftonic and I surprisingly love it. For the rest of the day I walk around the city as if I have the biggest wedgie because I’m that sore, but it’s a growing pain. $10.80
5 p.m. — I get home to refresh and get ready to meet friends for a comedy show at one of my favorite local bars. I put on a pair of straight-leg jeans and a cute tank top with a light optional layer on top. This comedy show features a local millennial comic speaking to us for an hour about her experiences growing up broke in New York and she really bonds with the audience. The entire show is themed around the Asian immigrant experience and it’s a riot. We have a lot of fun and I spend extra time here alone afterwards to unwind. I order my favorite things: a specialty hot dog with ketchup, mustard, and jalapenos and a basket of fries with the skin on and garlic aioli on the side. Then I whip out my laptop to free-write and read. $26
Daily Total: $46.80
Day Five: Monday
8 a.m. — Back to the grind! Picked out my work outfit last night. This time I’m wearing an Australian merino wool grey cardigan from Quince, heavyweight black pants from Aritzia, and a teal high-neck tank top from Old Navy. Then I start my commute to work. I’m blindsided by train delays and a packed train, which dampens my start to the day. I enjoy maple oatmeal when I get to the office, since I didn’t have time to eat. $2.90 (Expensed)
10 a.m. — I randomly remember that I still need to pay my accountant and I quickly get that done. $150
12 p.m. — During lunch I head outside with my food in hand. Today I packed some fresh fruit (blackberries, strawberries, and green grapes) with the idea of sitting at a local park. I get a random craving for a pumpkin spice chai which is pretty tragic for me, because it’s spring in New York (if I could, I would splurge on the best at-home coffee and tea setup). I settle in with my book and spend half an hour by the water reading and watching a family of ducks wander across the pond.
5 p.m. — After work I head to the bank; I try to keep cash on hand constantly in singles to give to people in need as I navigate the city. Plus I need to get a single check in order to pay a specific tax — they throw in an envelope which makes my life easier but I leave mildly confused about why a single temp check costs something. $31.50
6 p.m. — I deal with some tax and money stuff I’ve been putting off. But I have a happy hour later, so I figure now is a better time than any to rip off the bandaid. I spent the past year saving for tax time, anticipating and dreading a huge bill due because of NYC taxes. To my pleasant surprise it was much better than I anticipated, but I still owe. I use the money I had “left” to max out my Roth IRA in 2024. $1,600
7 p.m. — I head to a bar after work for a small social/happy hour. I’m buzzing over the happy news I got about what I owe for tax season. I get a mojito that had so much muddled mint it made my soul happy. I unexpectedly make a new connection at this social and we bond — and debate — over Gilmore Girls. We agree vehemently that it’s great but she’s shocked by how I stopped watching mid-way and refuse to pick it up again. In my defense, this is when Rory starts to go downhill. Little does this girl know that I have some of the biggest hot takes (or so I’m told) when it comes to media and I own them. I just don’t see a point in agonizing over a series of Rory’s bad choices so I don’t, and it’ll pain me to watch it happen. Still, I have a good time with this girl and she happily confirms all of the spoilers I thought I knew. $8
10 p.m. — I take the train back to my home area and wrap up my day there. I spend some time on a walk and jump on a phone call with a friend and others. $2.90 (Expensed)
Daily Total: $1,789.50
Day Six: Tuesday
8:45 a.m. — I head out on my work commute, more frazzled than usual because my phone died overnight and I am running behind schedule. I didn’t have time to eat breakfast but bless past-me, she made espresso ahead of time so that I only had to put the ingredients of my favorite coffee together. Then to my massive annoyance, the train makes an emergency stop and I am stuck for 20 more minutes. I’m big on reputation and commitment; if I said I would be somewhere I want to follow through on that and it stresses me out when I don’t. $2.90 (Expensed)
10:30 a.m. — The start to my morning was rough. I’m so tired I can’t keep my eyes open — but breakfast is served at the office, which is a pick-me-up. It’s late, but I enjoy a hearty bagel that’s as big as my mouth. Without going into details on the client, I’m texting a friend who is super excited about the fact that I am surrounded by an ecosystem of super successful (and eccentric) partners as well as “men in finance”. I think she wants me to have a meet-cute. There’s a weird mythologizing of this world that I don’t really get, especially after some of the things I’ve overheard while being here.
12 p.m. — I am productive through the morning and spend my lunch break outside. For whatever reason I’m not hungry and decide to get a coffee instead as a treat. I enjoy a butterscotch latte with a few regrets (it was too milky for my tastes — a classic flat white is usually my go-to here). I enjoy it nonetheless and sit outside in a beautiful area to people watch. $8.71
3:30 p.m. — It’s terribly slow in the office and sitting at my desk watching paint dry feels horrible. I have ADHD and tend to get stir-crazy so I get up and explore the building. I find a lower floor which has a nice decked-out lounge. A coffee corner, pool tables, TVs, areas to sit, a gym (!?), luxurious shower/bathroom, and my favorite, the reading corner. I realize it makes sense given that most people have to work super late and early days, sometimes weekends. But I swear, the book nook is like a dream. It’s nothing spectacular, it’s literally a single book shelf with a coffee table and a lounging chair in the corner of the lounge with the cutest little details like a fur rug and rose quartz coasters. But it’s in a private nook, cordoned off by a giant pillar of the wall. The lounge chair is deep and the back is to the pillar, so it’s private, and the books available are top notch. I find Viola Davis’ Finding Me and a book about military strategy tactics by Jocko Willink which grabs my attention. Yes, the introvert in me is in heaven right now.
5 p.m. — I take the train to Manhattan from my office to meet someone for wine tonight. Along the way there’s this antique bookstore that claims to sell rare books — I finally relent and stop by. $2.90 (Expensed)
6 p.m. — I meet a new friend (hopefully) at a new wine bar that opened up recently. We met at that career event I attended. We really hit it off there and bonded over our shared experiences so we agreed to meet and continue the conversation. Part of the event was all about sharing our personal stories and how we got to where we are, and the two of us shared similar stories of what we’ve survived, such as family and culture dynamics and abusive relationships. Individually we told snippets of our story from a place of how far we’ve come and grown and we both had a moment after we speak. We met eyes and we both just got each other — so I’m happy to have an opportunity to talk with her again, but I just want to get to know her more as a person. We’re blown away by the place and the intentional decor, by the super kind barista who gave us way too many samples of wine, and we share laughs about how to eat this giant artichoke. When we’re done, I commute back to my home area. $44.90
Daily Total: $53.61
Day Seven: Wednesday
8 a.m. — Morning commute to the office after my morning routine. This time I woke up before my alarm! From the last two days I have learned quite a few ways to create a pleasant morning. Like, there is a certain time I should start my commute to barely miss the commute crowd. I’ve also learned to prep my lunch and coffee the night before to help minimize the impulsive snack purchases for coffee in the morning. I opt to eat oatmeal in the office with a glass of chamomile tea. Today it’s a rare perfect weather day so I try out my new maxi skirt from Quince — it’s a pretty sage color and has tiers. I pair it with a basic white long sleeve and a Quince merino wool pullover (clearly I am a Quince girlie) and head out. $2.90 (Expensed)
11 a.m. — While I’m at work, my roommate texts to let me know they’ve done a big restock of home and kitchen essentials. We were low on everything, including toilet paper, paper towels, hand soap, and trash bags, among others. They’ve got everything we need this time, since they are working from home, and we split the cost. $36.71
12 p.m. — I make a good chunk of cash selling my Freja Paloma tote that I no longer want. It’s just too bulky for my personal tastes — it suits me perfectly but I feel like I’m knocking into other people on the train with it. Plus I want a tote that is one pound lighter at least, so that I can stuff it full and not feel like my shoulder is coming off by the end of the day. So I make a quick escape to meet up with the person to sell it. I’m so relieved to have the item gone because it was taking up space, and clutter is a pet peeve of mine — that’s why every quarter I do a massive spring clean. Thankfully the buyer agreed to meet me near my office so that I can return to work.
5 p.m. — I take a train from work to end my working day, but not without grabbing a muffin as my commuting snack. $2.90 (Expensed)
7 p.m. — I decide to try another new workout class (pre-paid earlier this month through Classpass trial for $5); this one is some hybrid of cardio and HIIT which makes me regret all of my life choices after I leave that sweaty room. There’s this one girl who is jumping from station to station in cute workout gear; she’s breaking a sweat but she doesn’t look too pressed at all in terms of exertion. I admire her physical stamina after the class and think about what I can do to bring myself to a level similar to that. Then I grab a quick dinner with a friend at a local cafe that specializes in Jamaican food. $14.35
8:20 p.m. — I jump on a phone call with my parents, who I haven’t talked to for a while. We catch up and stay on the phone for an hour — they tell me more about the hot weather in the area they’re in currently (out of state) and we talk about the most random things, from new perfumes my mom was looking at as a treat for herself to new recipes I should or shouldn’t cook. Little does my mom know that I secretly bookmark the perfumes she lists so that I can buy her one for her birthday coming up soon. (Spoiler alert: Outside of this weekly review, future-me surprises mom on her birthday with a large sized perfume and she cries happy tears.) She’s my person (Grey’s Anatomy!) and my favorite human in this world. She’s also just the best person I’ve ever known — ethics, morals, a heart of gold, good intentions, you name it. She’s the one who instilled a highly sustainable lifestyle into me. Every time I don’t recycle or waste something needlessly, I think about her. I make a cup of my favorite honey lemon ginger tea and curl up with a book beforehand. $22
Daily Total: $51.06
The Breakdown
Conclusion
“As I look at this a few weeks later, I can think of so many ways my situation has changed. This project ended, my routine is different again because I’m not commuting into the office everyday, and I’m apartment hunting. I enjoyed this exercise because I’m working on coming out of my shell and sharing more of my story. I’ve already been tracking my expenses for a few years now so this is nothing new. I have a personalized finance dashboard where I track every expense as well as monthly and annual reviews and an onslaught of other features. Looking at how I’ve done historically and visually seeing my progress has been the biggest motivator to keep making the tough choices with my money. I’m not surprised by my food and drink spending, and recently I’ve resolved to cut it in half. I can afford it but I refuse to accept it. I hope to pour that money into health, experiences, and my future. This reflection and apartment hunting made me realize that I want to be more free and less bound by stuff so I’ve been on a spring cleaning rampage. and I’ve sold at least $700 in items in my effort to spring clean. By cutting out spending and physical clutter where I don’t need it, I hope I can free up mental and physical energy to pursue things that really matter. But I love to write and really enjoyed this exercise, and am curious personally as to how I could continue to do stuff like this, such as blogging — if people would want to dive into that with me, of course.”
Money Diaries are meant to reflect an individual’s experience and do not necessarily reflect Refinery29’s point of view. Refinery29 in no way encourages illegal activity or harmful behavior.
The first step to getting your financial life in order is tracking what you spend — to try on your own, check out our guide to managing your money every day. For more Money Diaries, click here.
Do you have a Money Diary you’d like to share? Submit it with us here.
Have questions about how to submit or our publishing process? Read our Money Diaries FAQ doc here or email us here.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Sneakers get their fair share of fashion love, but there’s one version that stands the test of time as a shoe-rotation regular: the white sneaker. These classic kicks are one of the most enduring sneaker trends to date because of their versatility. White sneakers are a year-round staple, but they especially shine in the warmer months — complementing everything from summer dresses to denim shorts.
Whether you’re looking for bright-white platform sneakers, timeless tennis shoes to create the perfect dress and sneaker combo or are in need of sleek trainers for outdoor adventures, we’ve rounded up the best styles to cart up right now. Click through to find the best women’s white sneakers — from streamlined, modern styles to chunky, retro designs.
DashDividers_1_500x100
White Tennis Shoes
Whether you want an old-school pair of slim white sneakers for your vacation (à la Baby in Dirty Dancing)or to actually play tennis in, a pair of white tennis shoes scream “summer.” From bright-white canvas styles to off-white leather and suede versions, you can go as preppy or modern as you like on your next summer outing.
DashDividers_1_500x100
White Leather Sneakers
Perfect for elevating casual outfits or making your refined looks more relaxed, leather sneakers are versatile, durable, and super chic. Opt for a chunky court style as a goes-with-everything option or try a slim retro runner for a sporty touch. And if genuine leather isn’t your thing, consider faux leather, which also tends to be more affordable and easier to clean.
DashDividers_1_500x100
White Platform Sneakers
Get an extra boost this summer — without sky-high stilettos — with a pair of platforms. From standard platform soles to extra-stacked styles and even nostalgic wedges, these sneaker options run the gamut from subtle to dramatic.
DashDividers_1_500x100
White Designer Sneakers
If you’re looking to invest in designer sneakers, there’s no doubt that a white pair will be a classic that you’ll reach for time and time again (and get your money’s worth!). Rep your favorite luxury designer with a logo-heavy design or pick a more demure style that channels quiet luxury.
DashDividers_1_500x100
White High-Top Sneakers
High-top sneakers are trending this season, so why not get the best of both worlds and buy a crisp white pair? If you love the retro basketball vibe of this style (or have been immersed in “Knicks in six!” chants and want a new pair for game days), high-tops are the ideal choice for you.
DashDividers_1_500x100
White Running Sneakers
If you’re heading outside to get active this summer, white athletic sneakers are perfect for long walks, hikes, and runs. We’ve rounded up some extra-comfy styles that’ll go the distance and effortlessly transition from workouts to daily errands.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
We love the commitment that comes with assembling a never-leaving-the-couch outfit — from trendy, coordinated sweatsuits to throw-on-and-go jumpsuits. But, while those fashion-forward efforts are worthy of applause, let’s be real: leggings are the true wardrobe MVP, even when venturing out. That’s why we’re always on the lookout for the absolute best pairs to shimmy our legs into. Enter: the soft legging.
It’s all about the fabric here, though function should never fall by the wayside. Some leggings come with fun mesh panels, others with handy pockets. There are the flared yoga pants for a flattering fit, the super-smooth compressive style for workouts, and the barely-there, airy option that feels like a second skin. But, if they’re not that “snuggle-next-to-these-legs” kind of soft? Well, we’re just not interested. So sit back, relax, and slip into one of the butter-soft bottoms ahead.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Feel confident and comfortable in these cool-girl-coded leggings from Rhone. With four-way stretch and anti-odor technology, they are the ideal pick for gym-goers who value texture and functionality as much as aesthetics.
Rhone Revive 7/8 Pocket Legging, $, available at Rhone
Reviewers rave about the ultra-soft feel and universally beloved fit of these everyday leggings. With a five-inch waistband and no outside seams, they’re all about comfort — plus, they come in 16 (!) colors.
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging, $, available at Beyond Yoga
The Align legging already had a cult following for its buttery feel and second-skin fit, but Lululemon just took it a step further. This new seamless version ditches the crotch seam for a sleeker silhouette that’s even smoother (and yes, Team R29 is obsessed).
Lululemon Align No Line High-Rise Pant 25″, $, available at Lululemon
What’s better than a flare legging? One with a crossover waist! Aerie’s bootcut take on their best-selling super soft crossover design comes in nine different colors and three lengths. I can vouch — these are affordable, super-cute, and totally worth it.
OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Flare L, $, available at Aerie
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Everlane’s Perform Legging is basically like a second skin, making it one of our most tried-and-true pairs for workouts. With a truly perfect stretch, they’re on point at the office, gym, or a coffee date.
Everlane The Perform 24/7 Legging, $, available at Everlane
These Halo Vintage leggings give us all the cozy feels — perfect for a piping cup of coffee and a good book on a chilly morning. Made with a R29-loved, silky soft DreamKnit fabric, we can’t wait to style them with a vintage rugby shirt or cable-knit sweater for the preppy vibes.
Your next yoga (or couch-lounging) sesh awaits in Athleta’s uber-soft Elation legging. Made from the brand’s much-loved Powervita fabric, this new release from the Fine Lines collection comes with coordinating top options for a put-together look, whether you’re perfecting yoga poses or checking shows off of your watch list.
Athleta Elation Ultra High Rise 7/8 Legging, $, available at Athleta
Breathable and sweat-wicking, these leggings are the real deal for working up a sweat — or lounging — in style. Oh, and the color options? *Chef’s kiss*
FP Movement Never Better 7/8 Length Leggings, $, available at Free People
Designed for both lounging and getting active, these leggings are made from super-soft recycled material that’s stretchy yet supportive enough for any workout.
Girlfriend Collective Mariposa Float Ultralight Legging, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
For all our earthy-toned friends, look luxe in Varley’s FreeSoft leggings, from a cozy polyester-elastane blend.
Varley FreeSoft High Waist Leggings, $, available at Nordstrom
SpanxSmooth Soft and Smooth Active 7/8 Leggings
True to its name, these leggings are indeed very soft and smooth. Crafted from SPANXsmooth fabric, they’ll gently hug your body in a way that’s almost too buttery-soft to function. The high waist, center-seam-free, and no-dig waist design features are all for one top priority: your comfort.
SPANX SPANXsmooth Soft and Smooth Active 7/8 Leggings, $, available at SPANX
Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Flare Ankle Pants
Nordstrom’s activewear brand Zella gets it when it comes to workout gear, and this high-waisted, cropped flare pair is no exception. Designed for softness and function, they’re ready for whatever the day has in store.
Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Flare Ankle Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Universal Standard Next-To-Naked Stirrup Legging
Celebrated for its comfort and inclusive sizing (00 to 40), Universal Standard’s stirrup leggings go from home to office without missing a beat (or looking out of place).
Universal Standard Next-to-Naked Stirrup Legging, $, available at Universal Standard
Under Armour Meridian Rib Ankle Leggings
Crafted from a super-soft performance knit, these leggings promise lasting comfort — no matter what you’re doing (or not doing). And with two (!!) pockets, they’ve got storage handled.
Under Armour Meridian Rib Ankle Leggings, $, available at Under Armour
Pact On The Go-To Cropped Bootcut Legging
These bootcut leggings are easy to love for their breathable and weightless fabric. Even better, they’re eco-conscious, made from organic cotton, and fair trade-certified — a feel-good choice in every way.
PACT On The Go-To Cropped Bootcut Legging, $, available at PACT
Splits59 Raquel High Waist Supplex Flare 30″ Legging
The four-way stretch Supplex fabric isn’t the only thing we love about these softies — the sporty stripes bring a fun athletic vibe to any activity. Shop Splits59
Splits59 Raquel High Waist Supplex Flare 30″ Legging, $, available at Revolve
Nylora Kai Leggings
Elevate your leggings game with this R29-editor-loved pair from Nylora. Hailed as “so super soft that they feel weightless,” it’s a versatile black style step above the rest. Shop Nylora
There’s lounging soft, and then there’s stepping-out-into-the-world soft. This tactile, tailored pair brings comfort with a moody print and a sleek vibe — equally suited for the office or after-work drinks.
By Anthropologie Tailored Leggings, $, available at Anthropologie
Year Of Ours Ribbed Two-Tone Veronica Leggings
While this isn’t Year Of Ours’ usual football-inspired designs, the minimalist graphic detailing on these crossover leggings is a win while featuring that signature comfy ribbed fabric we love.
