The 22 Best Matching Sweatsuit & Lounge Sets To Live In Year-Round

As much as we love diving headfirst into the latest fashion trends, there’s no denying the magnetic pull of a matching sweatsuit or lounge set. They’re cozy, they’re comfy, they’re cute — and, when made with quality and care, they’re built to last. Plus, the versatility. Toeing the line between sporty athleisure and polished co-ords, sweatsuits are the ultimate shortcut to looking casual yet put-together.

Throw one on when you can’t be bothered to style an outfit. Or default to your favorite when tackling a week’s worth of chores in a few hours. Working remotely and need to feel slightly more “dressed” than your pajamas? Problem solved. And on travel days? Sweat sets are an MVP for curling up on chilly flights. Bonus: You can break up a set and wear each piece separately, unlocking endless mix-and-match potential for those moments when you actually want to plan an outfit.

If you’re ready to retire those ratty, holey sweats that have seen you through college and countless days under your duvet (no judgment — we’ve all got that pair), consider yourself covered. Ahead, discover 22 top-quality, stylish sweatsuit sets from retailers we love and trust. Whether you’re looking for lightweight short sets and breathable cotton co-ords for warm weather or weighty and more structured layers for indoor hibernation mode, you’ll find your new go-to right here.

All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.

Edikted

Girly bows and butter yellow?  We couldn’t click “add to cart” fast enough.

edikted Bonney Bow Oversize Hoodie, $, available at Nordstrom

edikted Bonney Bow Detail Sweatpants, $, available at Nordstrom

Aerie

Add Bermuda shorts to your loungewear rotation with this ultra-airy summer set.

Aerie OFFLINE Keep It 100 Terry Full Zip Hoodie, $, available at Aerie

Aerie OFFLINE Keep It 100 Terry Foldover Long Short, $, available at Aerie

H&M

You just can’t beat a melange gray sweatsuit in rotation, any time of year.

H&M 2-piece Sweatsuit, $, available at H&M

Aritzia

Of course, everyone’s favorite shop for wardrobe basics has hoodies that “hoodie” better than most in existence. The Cozy Fleece fabric is like wearing a cloud, and this sun-faded pink? Summer perfection.

Aritzia Cozy Sweatfleece Mega Zip Hoodie, $, available at Aritzia

Aritzia Cozy Sweatfleece Perfect Hi-rise Mini Short, $, available at Aritzia

Lululemon

A Lululemon set for travel just makes sense. The plush fleece, roomy fit, and pockets make it practical yet undeniably cozy on early-morning flights — no wonder these are an internet sensation. Plus, the pants come in short, regular, and tall sizes, making the set even more versatile.

Lululemon Scuba Mid-Rise Oversized Jogger Regular, $, available at Lululemon

Lululemon Scuba Oversized Full-Zip Hoodie, $, available at Lululemon

Rhone

Another dreamy-soft fabric that’s somehow both crazy lightweight and warm — seriously, how?

Rhone DreamGlow Half Zip, $, available at Nordstrom

Rhone DreamGlow Joggers, $, available at Nordstrom

Everlane

Greenify your sweatsuit situation for spring in these bright coordinates from Everlane, crafted from lightweight cotton jersey.

Everlane The Off-Duty Long-Sleeve Tee, $, available at Everlane

Everlane The Off-Duty Short, $, available at Everlane

Free-est

We’re long-time fans of Free People’s lounge and activewear offerings (especially FP Movement and Free-est), and this sweater knit set is a standout. Available in 12 colors, from easy neutrals to rich jewel tones, it’s perfect for everything from at-home happy hour to beach days.

free-est Solar Sweater Set, $, available at Free People

Zara

Bring the bubble-hem trend to your downtime with this red-hot hoodie and mini-skirt set.

Zara Oversized Lapel Cropped Sweatshirt, $, available at Zara

Zara Balloon Mini Skirt, $, available at Zara

Splendid

Found: your ultimate set for seaside days.

Splendid Zip Up Stripe Hoodie, $, available at Shopbop

Splendid Stripe Terry Shorts, $, available at Shopbop

Negative

If you haven’t tried Negative’s ready-to-wear, it’s time. Their layering tees are perfection, but when it comes to matching sweats, this ballet pink waffle set is choice. It even comes with a coordinating bra.

Negative Waffle Knit Pullover, $, available at Nordstrom

Negative Waffle Knit Jogger, $, available at Nordstrom

Negative Waffle Knit Lounge Bralette, $, available at Nordtrom

Dressed In Lala

Wear your emotions on your matching sleeves… literally.

Dressed In LaLa Lots of Feelings Checkerboard Sweater & Pants Set, $, available at Nordstrom

Daily Practice by Anthropologie

Anthropologie’s label Daily Practice delivers casual loungewear with an elevated, everyday feel. This set caught our eye for its eyelet and mesh details — playful touches that also make it feel extra breathable for hot days.

Daily Practice Rhythmic Lace Mesh Hooded Sweatshirt, $, available at Anthropologie

Daily Practice Rhythmic Lace Mesh Sweatpants, $, available at Anthropologie

Petal & Pup

Consider this your ultimate plane-to-poolside set.

Petal and Pup Sunny Knit Shirt & Shorts Set, $, available at Nordstrom

Gap

Readers have been loving Gap’s sweats of late, and these coordinates in coral-y pink make everything from WFH sessions to grocery runs and travel days a little brighter.

Gap French Terry Wide-Leg Rolled-Hem Sweatpants, $, available at Gap

Gap French Terry Oversized Crop Hoodie, $, available at Gap

Alo

Alo is best for its fashion-forward range of yoga attire and workout sets, but the sweatsuits are equally on point. Refinery 29 fashion director Irina Grechko swears by this set (which she has in gray and white) for peak cozy vibes. This new mint green is next on her list for summer.

Alo Accolade Crew Neck Pullover, $, available at Alo

Alo Accolade Short, $, available at Alo

Aviator Nation

We love a summer stripe, especially in zippy neon.

Aviator Nation 5 Stripe Relaxed Zip Hoodie, $, available at Shopbop

Aviator Nation 5 Stripe Sweatpants, $, available at Shopbop

Abercrombie & Fitch

Everyone loves Abercrombie’s jeans, but its activewear and loungewear deserve a shoutout. This boatneck sweatshirt is just the thing for your next hot girl walk when paired with the coordinated joggers.

Abercrombie and Fitch Sunday Slash Top, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch

Abercrombie and Fitch Essential Sunday Sweatpant, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch

Mango

Channel those Y2K vibes with this pretty sea green velour set — ideal for summer.

Mango Velour Sweatshirt with Soft Touch, $, available at Mango

Mango Soft-Touch Velour Pants, $, available at Mango

Old Navy

This aqua shorts set is screaming beachside lounging, whether that’s your reality or a daydream.

Old Navy SoComfy Graphic Sweatshirt, $, available at Old Navy

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted SoComfy Sweat Shorts, $, available at Old Navy

Pangaia

Pangaia brings bold colors and sustainable materials to your downtime style. If you’re a color lover, this peachy set is a so-fun and eco-friendly take on loungewear.

Pangaia 365 Midweight Hoodie, $, available at Pangaia

Pangaia 365 Midweight Track Pants, $, available at Pangaia

Spanx

Slip into this classic navy sweatsuit, where the ultra-soft and airy fabric feels like a gentle cloud against your skin.

SPANX AirEssentials Half Zip, $, available at SPANX

SPANX AirEssentials Wide Leg Pant, $, available at SPANX

Jenni Kayne

Jenni Kayne — a.k.a. everyone’s favorite luxury knitwear designer —  brings the same softness to the label’s matching sweat sets. This one is the definition of low-key luxury.

Jenni Kayne Saturday Sweatshirt, $, available at Jenni Kayne

Jenni Kayne Saturday Sweatpant, $, available at Jenni Kayne

PerfectDD

This one’s for the full-busted girls. Alice Kim launched PerfectDD after struggling to find pieces that fit her petite frame and size 32DD breasts. The designs are tailored with extra room at the bust only — no tent-like fits here (IYKYK). Sizes accommodate DD to M cups.

Perfectdd Charisse L/S Sweatshirt, $, available at Perfectdd

Perfectdd Sweat Shorts, $, available at Perfectdd

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6 Food-Inspired Beauty Trends That’ll Have You Serving Looks

Glazed donut nails, tiramisu makeup, cinnamon cookie butter hair… Food-inspired beauty trends are giving new meaning to the term “serving looks,” and not unlike patisserie day on my favorite baking show, new options stay coming in hot by the second.

The inspo for your next look isn’t just on your feed — it’s in your fridge. Think  sugared pink and red tones with a slight glossy sheen, mimicking the dewy glow of that viral $19 strawberry (you know the one), or decadent toffee hues that give your look equal parts warmth and sweetness. Scrolling through #BeautyTok feels like making that weekly grocery run, and honestly? Yes, chef.

The trend goes beyond indulgent aesthetic choices, too. With the launch of the new Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balms, e.l.f. Cosmetics is taking food-inspired beauty trends to the next level. These buttery soft, nourishing lip balms combine hues that pay homage to gummy candies, strawberry shortcake, and toffee among other delicious treats, with coordinating scent and flavor profiles for that 360 experience deserving of a Michelin star.

Keep reading to learn more about six food-inspired beauty trends we’re loving for summer, and how to easily create each look.

Strawberry Girl

What’s sweet, ripe for the season, and can be spotted in abundance at Erewhon? It’s not just the most recent harvest of summer strawberries — when the warmer weather returns, so does the strawberry girl makeup trend.

Try your hand at the effect with the e.l.f. Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm in Strawberry Shortcake, a soft, strawberry-scented pink tone that looks good on everyone, then pick up the Sheer For It Blush Tint in Pink Positive to create a juicy flush. Blend the hue along your cheeks, and add the smallest touch onto the bridge of your nose to create a sun-kissed appearance. Finish by decorating your complexion in faux freckles. Use the Holy Strokes Micro-Fine Brow Pen to add pinpoint dots over your cheeks and nose.

Y2K Candy

It’s the first day of summer in the year 2000. You’re snacking on a pouch of grape gummy sour straws as you pore over the latest issue of your favorite magazine, as the twinkly intro of “Candy” plays on MTV in the background. Life is good. Time travel may not be possible (yet), but luckily, an equally-sweet aesthetic is.

Swipe the candy-scented Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm in Yummy Gummy onto your lips to give a nod to your grape sour straws, then use the H2O Proof Inkwell Eyeliner in Lavender Daze to trace your upper lash line, winging it out at the end. Keep the Y2K vibes going by incorporating a touch of tasteful iridescence over your cheekbones. The Halo Glow Highlight Beauty Wand in IRL Angel is perfect for the effect, dipping a toe into the frosted makeup trends of years past without going full ice bath.

Espresso-core

No matter how you take your coffee in the morning, the espresso-core trend is one that looks great on everyone. Like the latte makeup trend, espresso-core is a blend of warm neutrals, but with a shot of extra depth — think darker, richer tones, and sultry vibes.

Start first with the lip combo to set the tone. Use the e.l.f. Cream Glide Lip Liner in Espresso Martini to trace the shape of your lips, then fill in your pout 50% of the way with the creamy formula, leaving some empty space at the center of your top and bottom lip to let your natural color peek through. Build up the intensity as you see fit, then swipe the coffee-flavored Glow Reviver Melting Balm in Java Chip over the top. Press your lips together to blend the colors and set the combo in place, then pick up the Bite-Size Eyeshadow Palette in Love You a Latte to bring a jolt of color to your eyes. Pat the deepest brown shade onto your lids, concentrating most of the hue along the upper lash line, then dip a blending brush into the warm terracotta tone to blend out the shade, diffusing the color as you reach your crease.

Blackberry Grunge

Whether you’re using the actual fruit as your muse, or the rich stain left behind after polishing off the tiny container you picked up on your grocery run, there’s something just so appropriately ‘90s about a rich blackberry hue. Use that as your inspiration for a grunge-era look that would do the lead singers of your favorite ’90s girl rock band proud.

Sweep the blackberry-scented Glow Reviver Melting Balm in Blackberry Sorbet across your lips. Pick up the Instant Lift Brow Pencil in a shade that matches your natural hair color to give your arches a full, fluffy appearance, using the spoolie to evenly distribute the formula. Finish by lining your eyes with the Smoky Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Black Velvet, smudging the color out with your finger for perfectly imperfect authenticity.

Cherry Punk

For those about to rock, we salute you. Throw “Cherry Bomb” on in the background and channel your inner rock goddess with the cherry punk aesthetic.

Start by swiping the Glow Reviver Melting Balm in Wild Cherry — a saturated, buttery red with a patent leather shine and a cherry flavor — across your pout, then mirror that energy on your cheeks with the Putty Blush in Caribbean. Pro tip: For an authentic punk look, take a page out of the ‘80s-era blush placement and blend the color across your cheekbones, directing the formula upwards. To finish, pick up the Intense Ink Eyeliner and draw on a cat-eye with an extended wing sharp enough to cut anyone who comes too close.

Sticky Toffee Chic

Have you ever been downright mesmerized by that sticky toffee sauce poured over a freshly baked sponge cake? Warm, golden, and so shiny it almost glows on its descent. Incorporate all that decadence into your look by reaching for warm, rich metallics.

Sweep the e.l.f. Liquid Metallic Eyeshadow in Meteor, a molten bronze hue, over your lids, then use your finger or an eyeshadow brush to diffuse the color as you reach your crease. Then, pick up the Halo Glow Highlight Beauty Wand in Holographic Honey and swipe it over the high points of your face — across your cheekbones, down the bridge of your nose, and onto the top of your cupid’s bow — to impart a luminous glow. Just like that warm, indulgent toffee sauce, a layer of the vanilla-flavored Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm in Vanilla Toffee serves as the finishing (yet ever essential) touch.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

The 12 Best Weekender Bags For Long-Weekend Travel

Lengthy trips call for breaking out our best rolling luggage, but for a quick two- to three-day getaway, we need a travel bag that lets us sail smoothly through various micro-jaunts — whether they’re via plane, train, or automobile — without getting in the way or weighing us down. This is where the weekender bag shines.

Weekenders run the gamut in terms of size and shape, so what’s right for you depends on your personal packing preferences: There are durable duffles ripe for overstuffing, large canvas totes perfect for folding in an extra outfit or two, and structured bags that sit neatly on your suitcase handle. No matter which one you choose, rest assured you’ll be able to flutter to and from all your adventures with ease by slinging one over your shoulder.

All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.

Béis The Weekender

We love this Béis weekender, made with sleek waterproof canvas, ample storage space, and a multitude of zip pockets — one even converts to a sleeve, so you can easily slide it over a suitcase handle for your next journey.

Béis The Weekender, $, available at Béis

Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Weekender

What do we want? Compartments! Where do we want them? In our weekender bags! Quince’s Italian leather style has just enough space that you can throw stuff in one of the three zippered pockets, but not too much that you’ll overpack.

Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Weekender, $, available at Quince

Coach Soft Empire Carryall Bag 48

For a chic office-to-airport option, Coach’s soft leather design is at the top of our list. It’s just big enough to fit your laptop, an outfit or two, a book, and a wash bag — all without being so big it annoys your fellow train commuters.

Coach Soft Empire Carryall Bag 48, $, available at Coach

Stoney Clover Lane Duffle Bag

No need to sacrifice space for style. In a trendy animal print, this structured, denim duffle will hold all your weekend necessities and more. Made with cotton, it can easily be popped into the washing machine to erase all weekend spills.

Stoney Clover Lane Duffle Bag, $, available at Anthropologie

Samsonite Better than Basic Weekender

Perfect for the frequent work travelers, this weekender bag will keep you looking professional and organized, thanks to a spacious top compartment with a laptop sleeve, plus a separate drop bottom compartment for shoes.

Samsonite Better than Basic Weekender, $, available at Samsonite

Vera Bradley Large Miramar Weekender

Like a real-life Mary Poppins bag, this weekender tote is surprisingly roomy, featuring a zippered laptop compartment, internal and external pockets, a trolley sleeve, and more. Plus it’s available in an array of bold, bright patterns and vibrant colors.

Vera Bradley Large Miramar Weekender, $, available at Vera Bradley

Rains Hilo Weekend Bag

Traveling somewhere rainy? This cool sea blue duffle is made from 100% waterproof fabric and features a water-resistant zipper to keep all of your valuables safe and dry.

Rains Hilo Weekend Bag, $, available at Rains

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffle Backpack

Whether you’re going on a short weekend getaway to the next town over or a new state, the Terra backpack duffle will ensure you only pack what you can carry. Created with an eco-friendly recycled ripstop polyester, this durable piece can fit what you need.

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack, $, available at Calpak

Herschel Novel Recycled Polyester Carry-On Duffle Bag


Longer weekends away call for a duffle bag with ample space for rolling and slotting all your travel necessities. This compact option blends utility with style to cover multiple days away, including your laptop (with its own pocket).

Herschel Supply Co. Novel Recycled Polyester Carry-On Duffle Bag, $, available at Nordstrom

FP Movement Quilted Duffle

The FP Movement Quilted Carryall is one of Free People’s bestsellers, loved by R29 readers and editors alike for its versatility. Now say hello to its latest iteration: a weekend-ready duffle made in the same water-resistant, puffer-style quilting. It also comes with travel features, such as a shoe pocket, a suitcase strap, an adjustable and removable shoulder strap, and lots of internal pockets.

FP Movement Quilted Duffle, $, available at Free People

Baggu Cloud Carry-On

The best part about this bag? Just how big and boxy it is — perfectly suited to filling with packing cubes and pouches without losing its shape, which then makes it easier to perch on top of a suitcase. The two large pockets on the front are also great for slipping in easy-to-reach travel essentials like a water bottle or book.

Baggu Cloud Carry-On, $, available at Baggu

Away The Everywhere Bag

This sleek duffle is a standard-sized version of R29-approved brand Away’s best-seller, designed to go everywhere with you. It’s made of water-resistant nylon material and has an assortment of compartments, including a padded laptop pocket and a trolley sleeve to carry it on your wheeled suitcase.

Away The Everywhere Bag, $, available at Away

Lululemon Multi-Pocket Tote Bag 19.5L

With ergonomic, adjustable straps for crossbody wear, zippered pockets (both internal and external), and tons of storage space, this straight-to-business tote makes it easy to pack all your stuff for a quick getaway. We especially love the detachable zippered pocket for carrying your passport and the front D-ring to clip on things like hand sanitizer. It’s crafted out of water-repellent fabric, too, so it’s easy to wipe clean and great for the wet, rainy months.

Lululemon Multi-Pocket Tote Bag 19.5L, $, available at Lululemon

By Anthropologie Weekender Bag

No need to sacrifice space for style: Covered in a beautiful botanical print, Anthro’s padded duffle is great for throwing all your weekend necessities. Made with cotton, this carry-all can easily be popped into the washing machine to erase all weekend spills.

By Anthropologie Weekender Bag, $, available at Anthropologie

Tumi Contine Weekender

We love the luxurious look of Tumi’s travel goods. Check out this nylon-and-leather weekender, equipped with all the compartments you’ll ever need, including a quick-access phone pocket, laptop sleeve, zippered bottom compartment, and more.

TUMI Contine Weekender, $, available at Anthropologie

Everlane The ReNew Transit Weekender

This under-$100 option from Everlane is just the right (carry-on) size for a weekend business trip. It’s made from 100% recycled fabric and includes a padded laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders, an exterior zip pocket, and a convenient luggage handle pass-through.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Weekender, $, available at Everlane

Madewell The Zip-Top Medium Transport Tote

Some people are overpackers, and some can just grab and go. If you’re in the latter party, this is the perfect bag for you: a chic leather tote large enough to fit all the necessities without getting bogged down with, well, stuff. Better yet, it zips up so nothing will spill in the overhead space.

Madewell The Zip-Top Medium Transport Tote, $, available at Madewell

Fjällräven Kånken Weekender


From the Swedish makers of the adorable Kånken backpack comes its older sibling that can carry much larger loads. The Weekender looks like a bigger version of the backpack, and can be carried as such. (It’s also equipped with a shoulder strap.) This pastel lavender color is precious, but you can choose from seven other earthy tones.

Fjällräven Kånken Weekender, $, available at Fjällräven

MZ Wallace Nik Bag


This style has tons of organized space in the form of interior pockets, compartments, and detachable bags. The exterior is equipped with even more organizational pockets.

MZ WALLACE Nik, $, available at MZ Wallace

Halfday Travel The Garment Duffel 45L

The carry-on-sized duffel unfolds flat to store hanging clothes. Meaning: You can put a few dresses or suits in the hanging compartment, roll that up, then fit all the rest of your travel necessities in the regular compartment, just like a traditional duffel. The bag also features two shoe pockets, as well as a back trolley sleeve.

Halfday Travel The Garment Duffel 45L, $, available at Halfday Travel

Leatherology Kessler Medium Duffel

For weekend travel, the Kessler duffle is a personal favorite of R29’s senior director of editorial Carli Whitwell. Made of buttery soft, full-grain leather, it features six pockets ripe for the filling — with options to personalize starting at $35.

Leatherology Kessler Medium Duffle, $, available at Leatherology

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

A more compact duffle than most, Dagne Dover’s Landon Carryall boasts multiple interior compartments and an expandable design that’s ideal for travelers looking to maintain a short packing list. This is also one of the best carryalls for women if you’re looking for a set of travel bags and accessories in the same color — and especially unique shades like this (Brat green luggage anyone?).

Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag, $, available at Dagne Dover

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe

There’s nothing worse than having to shove your dirty, sandy shoes in with all your clothes, toiletries, and travel essentials. That’s why the Catalina Deluxe, with its separate shoe compartment, is one of our top contenders. Plus this rich color.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe, $, available at Lo & Sons

Paravel Weekender

A monogrammed weekender bag is incredibly chic, and the ones from Paravel are second to none. Constructed from the brand’s signature Ecocraft canvas, which is made from upcycled water bottles, and vegan leather trim, it can be personalized with hand-painting or embroidery. It’s not just about looks, though — this bag is designed to fit in airplane overhead compartments, can slip over and attach to your suitcase trolley, and comes with an adjustable crossbody strap.

Paravel Weekender, $, available at Paravel

Cuyana Weekender Bag


Made with recycled plastic material, this sturdy travel bag features three large internal and external compartments for all your needs, a crossbody strap and a handle for carrying, and a luggage sleeve for those weekend travelers who don’t want to sacrifice space for aesthetics.

Cuyana Weekender Bag (Recycled Knit), $, available at Cuyana

Antler Icon Overnight Bag

The curved silhouette and dark forest green shade set this weekender apart. It’s designed to abide by underseat airline restrictions, and is all about easy but secure access to your essentials, with a hidden back pocket and a magnetic flap section at the front.

antler Icon Bag Overnight Bag, $, available at Nordstrom

Universal Thread Easy Go Weekender Bag

Not only does this cotton- and leather-look design appear way more expensive than its $45 price tag suggests, it’s also a practical choice — with multiple pockets, compartments, and convertible straps for super streamlined travels.

Universal Thread Easy Go Weekender Bag, $, available at Target

United Colors of Benetton x Delsey Paris Softside Carry-On Duffle


We love a good baby blue moment, especially in a bag as functional as this one, a collab between United Colors of Benetton and Delsey Paris. Made of water-resistant material, this tiny tote has great storage space, with a large main compartment and a smaller external zippered one.

United Colors of Benetton x Delsey Paris Softside Carry-On Duffle, $, available at Delsey Paris

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This Korean Shampoo Doubles As Hair Perfume & Actually Delivers Results

As someone who doesn’t get a trim as often as she should (I’m growing my hair out, okay?), I expect a lot from my humble shampoo and conditioner. I want them to cleanse my scalp and strands of the daily lashings of dry shampoo, not to mention smooth frizz, minimize split ends, boost shine, and make my lengths smell incredible. I don’t think that’s a tall order, especially given how far haircare tech has come. But it’s my job to test these products out, and you’d be surprized how many brands underdeliver. So when I heard that Kundal — Korea’s number one shampoo brand — had landed at Amazon and Walmart, too, I sat up, took note, and headed straight to TikTok to see what all the fuss was about.

While Korea’s skincare continues to enjoy the spotlight, it’s now haircare’s turn to shine, with Kundal taking center stage. On TikTok, the hashtag #Kundal now has over 17.3K posts and counting, many racking up tens of thousands of views, likes, and comments. The consensus? It’s one of the best-smelling — yes, smelling — hair brands out there.

According to the brand’s legions of fans, hair perfume has nothing on Kundal’s shampoo range, which features fragrances like White Musk (clean, soft, and powdery), Cherry Blossom (lightly floral and refreshing), and Violet Muguet (sweet and slightly green). There are also matching conditioning treatments, a scalp tonic, and a post-wash serum, all of which smell just as good. In fact, some are even filming themselves “blind” reviewing the collection based on scent alone.

It seems the most popular scent is White Musk — a warm “skin scent” with a spicy, intimate edge. As luck would have it, White Musk was the fragrance that landed on my desk, namely the Honey & Macadamia Shampoo White Musk, $14.31, and the Honey & Macadamia Protein Treatment White Musk, $14.86. It’s not all hype — they do smell incredible. Hours after using the shampoo and treatment, my partner walked into a bathroom that smelled like a high-end spa. He was convinced I’d spritzed on perfume before bed. Nope, just my hair.

Ask any fragrance obsessive how to smell good all day, and I bet they’ll recommend a hair perfume. Unlike regular fragrance sprayed on skin or clothes, hair perfume really lingers, and the natural movement of your lengths means you catch heavenly wafts throughout the day. But here’s the thing: A lot of them contain alcohol, which can be drying on already parched or fragile strands. The beauty of Kundal’s hair collection is that it’s not all scent over substance; the incredible fragrance is suspended in a handful of nourishing ingredients.

I’ll start with the shampoo. The ingredients list boasts an abundance of smoothing, shine-enhancing plant oils, including coconut, avocado, macadamia, and jojoba oils. Then there’s ultra-moisturizing shea butter to reduce dryness and frizz, plus mild surfactants like lauryl hydroxysultaine to cleanse the scalp and strands without stripping. Don’t underestimate it, though. The lather is rich and creamy, and I only need to shampoo once, rather than twice like usual. My hair always feels light and clean, not weighed down or greasy. It’s been two days since I last washed my hair, and I can still smell the subtle, powdery, musky scent on my strands.

Then there’s the protein treatment, a favourite among people with all hair types — especially those with type 4 natural hair, who love its moisturizing benefits. One content creator even called it “life-saving” for her curls. I have fine hair, but a lot of it, and I use the treatment as a conditioner, letting it work its magic for around five minutes. As the name suggests, the star ingredients are proteins, particularly hydrolyzed soy protein, hydrolyzed keratin, and silk amino acids. Certified trichologist Angela Onuoha had previously told me that, in haircare, proteins are considered a type of conditioning agent, and that every hair type can benefit from them to help protect and temporarily repair hair from heat damage and environmental stressors like harsh weather and pollution.

@thatssotrending I’m on a healthy hair journey. @KUNDAL US is making it easier for the natural hair community. My type 4 hair felt so good after using these products! 💜💜💜 #kundalxbeautyko #kundal #naturalhairtiktok #type4hair #curlyhairproducts #washday #healthyhairjourney #haircare #haircareproducts #koreanbeauty ♬ original sound – Jacobdior

Onuoha explained that most proteins latch onto the surface of hair strands, forming a protective film that smooths the hair shaft. The result? Softer, shinier-looking hair. The proteins in this treatment are “hydrolyzed” — essentially broken down into smaller molecules. Onuoha also noted that hydrolyzed proteins can potentially penetrate the hair shaft to help strengthen it from within, offering further protection against damage.

I judge a treatment by how it makes my hair feel when I rinse it out, and I was surprized by how silky it was, not to mention how easily it disappeared. Most treatments leave behind a greasy residue, but this felt more like a lightweight conditioner that left my hair — especially my very split ends — feeling soft and looking a hell of a lot healthier. Of course, a good hair oil helps, too. I absolutely love Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Hair Oil, $36, and while it’s the most expensive product in my routine, a little goes a very long way.

Speaking of price, I was surprized to learn that Kundal’s 500ml shampoo and treatment are under $15 each. Considering the incredible fragrance, not to mention the megamix of expert-approved ingredients, I’d say the brand is well worth the money. Better still, it’s available at Amazon and Walmart. My advice? Grab a shampoo and treatment duo before they sell out — and if TikTok’s fragrance enthusiasts have anything to do with it, they certainly will.

This story was originally published on Refinery29 UK.

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Princess Nails Are Set To Be The Chic, Low-Effort Manicure Of The Summer

Of all the nail trends to emerge in 2025, there’s no doubt that minimalist manicures are reigning supreme. With soap nails, vanilla French tips, and angel chrome finishes showing no sign of dwindling in popularity, you’d be forgiven for thinking that there’s simply no room for another pared-back manicure to capture our attention. Yet that’s exactly what this latest viral trend is: Introducing princess nails.

“Every few months we see the sheer, neutral manicure reinvented, and princess nails are a subtle variation on this classic style,” explains international manicurist Georgia Rae. The thing that sets them apart from other manicures? Princess nails might look simple, but every detail has been perfectly executed so that they ooze luxury. “The look is inspired by royalty who are known for maintaining a very natural, but always perfectly-groomed manicure,” explains Rae.

Ahead, we explore what makes the perfect princess manicure and why this nail look will be holding court for summer 2025.

What are princess nails?

The appeal of princess nails lies in their simplicity. The look is so pared back it’s even being dubbed “recession indicator” nails on social media — a nod to the theory that people often swap extravagant beauty habits for simpler ones when the economy is about to take a nosedive.

While the trend is certainly minimalist, it remains an enchanting look thanks to the level of prep and polish: “The princess nail trend is all about shorter length nails in sheer, natural pinks, which echo the preference of the Royal family’s beauty protocol of well-maintained and manicured natural nails,” explains session manicurist Ami Streets. Every nail expert I spoke to said that princess nails look great on shorter lengths, with a soft square or slightly rounded shape preferred. But when it comes to manicures, there are no rules; opt for whichever length you’re comfortable with.

@victorialeatherman_ Bubble bath will never let me down #princessnails #nailinspo @nailsbyxojess ♬ Tyla Truth Or Dare Mash Up – DJ KINGSZN

How do you create princess nails?

Unless you’re a pro at doing your own nails, then no doubt getting your princess nails done in a salon will give you the best results, as the key lies in the prep. “Find a manicurist who is meticulous with their preparation and polish application,” says Rae, especially intricate cuticle work, which requires a specific level of skill. She even goes as far as to say that establishing a hand and nail care routine before you get your princess manicure will give you the best results: “At the very least, moisturize your hands and apply a cuticle oil regularly as the final step in your evening routine,” she advises.

If you are doing your own nails at home, then the right tools, like a proper cuticle stick and clippers, can make all the difference. The Ulta Beauty Collection Basics Manicure 5 Piece Kit, $5, is great if you like that polished aesthetic. “Since the nails are kept short and the polish is so delicate, any imperfections or roughness might be noticeable,” explains Streets. Focus on pushing back cuticles, buffing the surface of the nail, and filing into shape for a perfect finish.

As for the color? “I would opt for a sheer beige or pink tint that blurs any imperfections and complements your skin tone,” says Rae. Alternatively, if you don’t like such a natural look, then princess nails will also work with a milkier color followed by a glossy top coat. In the salon, our experts rate BioSculpture in shade Luka or The GelBottle BIAB in Ballet as two beautiful sheer pink shades. If you’re recreating princess nails at home, then Essie Gel Couture in Fairy Tailor, $13, OPI Put It In Neutral, $11.99, and Chanel La Base Camélia, $33, all come highly recommended.

Sold? Here’s all the princess nails inspiration you need.

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Sweet Simplicity

We can’t believe that manicurist Julia Diogo created this impeccable natural nail look using Essie To The Rescue Nail Treatment, $12. A brilliant shortcut for at-home princess nails.

Rose Milk

Content creator Mateja Novakovic’s beautiful milky manicure is simply charming. Recreate it using BioSculpture Gemini Polish in Ghost Rose, $14.50.

Classic Nude

The queen of the minimalist manicure, Georgia Rae, proves that finding your perfect nude is the key to an effortless yet expensive-looking manicure.

Princess Pink

Manicurist Aimee Burns elevates this simple nail trend princess with slightly longer squared-off nails and a pretty petal pink color.

Pearl Wash

If you’re not into such a natural look, then this manicure created by Megan Rose enlists a dusting of chrome powder to add some extra shine to the finished nails. Try Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Special Effects Top Coat in Glazed, $12.99, for a similarly iridescent effect at home.

Almond Gleam

From the perfect shape to the subtle shine, Angela’s Glam House has nailed every element of the princess manicure.

This story was originally published on Refinery29 UK.

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