💌 Designing your Life, chocolate chip cookie recipe, add to cart

TODAY IS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20

WHAT TO EXPECT

• stories: AI’s impact on beauty, fashion launches, swapping coffee for ginger shots
• this week’s read: designing your life
• recent articles: top brands for the best active skincare ingredients
• quote: on growth
• add to cart
• recipes to try: the best chocolate chip cookies
• ICYMI

BEAUTY: AI’S IMPACT ON THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY
AI seems to be affecting the beauty industry in 3 main areas: color specialists, education, and social media. In terms of color specialists, AI's ability to master color formulation could level the playing field among colorists, as expert knowledge becomes widely accessible through tech. If someone built an entire clientele based on exceptional knowledge of color formulation, it’s more than likely to become obsolete. The education sector will be transformed as AI platforms emerge because if your entire job is remote, you won’t necessarily be aware if your co-worker is a real human or AI. And lastly, while AI can assist with tasks like social media caption writing, there may definitely be an over-reliance on AI-generated content, AKA a lack of authenticity. Although it’s super helpful, AI can’t replace human expertise in predicting trends and creating innovative solutions. Also as it becomes more prominent, people are becoming more hyperaware of it’s usage, which makes it easily noticeable.

FASHION: FEBRUARY FASHION LAUNCHES
February is the perfect time for a closet refresh—whether you’re finally snagging those wishlist items or prepping for the transition to spring. This month’s fashion launches bring a mix of practicality and style, with pieces from brands like Urban Outfitters, Ming Yu Wang, and Leau. Leau’s Harlowe Contrast Corset Maxi Dress, loved by influencers Alix Earle and Nara Smith, offers a timeless silhouette, while Urban Outfitters’ in-house line, Bec, delivers chic athleisure like the Double Layer Mini Dress—ideal for workouts or errands. Meanwhile, Australian brand Mode Mischief blends function with fashion in its '90s-inspired Zip Mini Dress, proving utility can still be stylish. No matter your plans, these fresh finds are ready to elevate your wardrobe.

WELLNESS: PEOPLE ARE SWAPPING MORNING COFFEE FOR GINGER SHOTS
Ginger shots (normally a combo of ginger + ingredients like lemon juice, turmeric, cayenne pepper, honey) have become pretty popular on social media for their health benefits. While claims about detoxification are unfounded, they offer legitimate benefits such as improved immunity, better digestion, reduced inflammation, and potential protection against diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Studies also show that the shots help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce high blood pressure, and alleviate various types of nausea. People are switching their morning coffee routine with these shots and claiming to feel a huge change in their mood + digestion. Experts also suggest that they be taken on an empty stomach.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure of your next step, or just craving a little more joy in your day-to-day, this book is for you. A New York Times Best-Seller, Designing Your Life isn’t about following a rigid five-year plan—it’s about approaching your life the way a designer would, with creativity, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment. Bill Burnett, a Stanford design professor, shows how small shifts in perspective and action can help you build a life that feels more fulfilling, no matter where you’re starting from.

ON GROWTH: “There will never be a perfect time to do something that stretches you. If you were ready for it, it wouldn't be growth.” — James Clear

Often we’re waiting for the right time for some thing whether it’s having a child, starting a business, or picking up a new skill. Sometimes we simply need to take the leap.

1. Stradivarius: a belt with a slightly chunky buckle is a must & this half moon design is super versatile with outfits
   

2. Steve Madden: who doesn’t love a good pair of loafers? Stylish + comfy
   

3. Mango: straight knitted trousers scream chic but laid back, not to mention staying warm
   

4. Everlane: a relaxed oversized fit with a longer length so you can dress it down or up! Oh also, it’s organic cotton
   

5. Our place: a multi-cooker kitchen application should be at the top of your must haves list. Whether it be soup, rice, mac n cheese, or even steak…it’ll do it all
   

6. Quince: Italian leather + handwoven + perfect size + less than $150, run!

(IN CASE YOU MISSED IT)