💌 PrettyLittleThing's rebrand, On the Basis of Sex, non toxic clothing

TODAY IS FRIDAY, MARCH 14

WHAT TO EXPECT

• stories: kojic acid for dark spots, PrettyLittleThing’s Rebrand, Nutrition Apps
• this week’s watch: On the Basis of Sex
• extra stories
• recent articles: how to layer skincare products correctly
• weekly favorites: non-toxic, chemical free attire
• quote on: perspective
• weekend plans: join a movie watching group

BEAUTY: CAN KOJIC ACID LIGHTEN YOUR DARK SPOTS?
Kojic acid is gaining popularity as an effective + affordable way to fade dark spots caused by hyperpigmentation. It works by inhibiting melanin production, helping to prevent new spots while gradually improving the appearance of existing ones. Although it’s not an instant (or permanent) fix, consistent use over several months can lead to noticeable improvements, especially when combined with other brightening ingredients. Kojic acid is generally safe for all skin types, and gentler than other ingredients. It offers a more gentle approach to stronger treatments like hydroquinone.

BUSINESS: PRETTYLITTLETHING’S REBRAND
PrettyLittleThing’s rebrand swaps its bold, pink aesthetic for a muted, “quiet luxury” look, but the makeover feels more like a hollow trend-chasing attempt than a genuine transformation. The brand, once synonymous with ultra-cheap partywear, now leans into a beige-heavy, minimalist aesthetic—yet without addressing past controversies, including unethical labor practices and unsustainable production. While PLT’s new branding claims to celebrate its "heritage," it contradicts the brand’s past focus on affordability over quality, with even its CEO admitting that simply making dresses “not see-through” is a step up. The shift to quiet luxury, popularized by influencers like former PLT creative director Molly-Mae Hague, feels more like a marketing ploy than a meaningful change in values. Without any transparency on sustainability or ethical sourcing, this rebrand raises the question: is PLT truly evolving, or just repackaging itself to fit the latest aesthetic trend?

WELLNESS: IS YOUR NUTRITION APP WORKING AGAINST YOU?
Fitness and nutrition tracking apps can be helpful for monitoring health data, but researchers stand by the fact that they may contribute to eating disorders, body image issues, and compulsive exercise. Although it not 100% clear whether these apps cause harmful behaviors (or exaggerate those already struggling), the pros warn that the emphasis on numbers, calorie deficits, and rigid goals can create stress and unhealthy habits. People with a history of sporadic eating habits, perfectionism, or overtraining may be especially vulnerable. You may not notice it as much, but if you’re obsessively tracking calories, feeling guilty about missing goals, and prioritizing workouts over social or personal well-being... then your app may not be working for you.

"On the Basis of Sex" is an inspiring film that follows Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s early fight for gender equality, making it a must-watch for Women’s History Month. Despite graduating at the top of her class, she faces discrimination in the legal field and takes a job as a professor. When she discovers a tax case where a man is unfairly denied a deduction due to outdated gender laws, she seizes the opportunity to challenge systemic sexism. With the help of her husband and the ACLU, Ruth argues the landmark case, proving that laws should evolve with society. This powerful story showcases Ginsburg’s resilience, paving the way for her groundbreaking work in women’s rights and eventual rise to the Supreme Court.

You can stream it on Netflix!

👕 if you’re a fan of 100% cotton + comfort + style…our merch is for you

🎼 King Charles’ new playlist is out & gives you a peak into his personal taste

💋Lady Gaga’s MUA gave up the genius trick for her blurred lip look

Achieving glowing, healthy skin isn't just about using the right products — it's about applying them in the right order for optimal use, too. You'll want a layer routine that prioritizes the impact of active ingredients in each product based on how well target the affected layers of skin without any disturbance. There's been a lot of debate over which product belongs where in the layering sequence, and while it varies from skin texture to skin texture, we've come up with a simple breakdown for how to build your routine to optimize the results of healthy skin.

NON-TOXIC, CHEMICAL-FREE ATTIRE

ON PERSPECTIVE: Every hour is a new beginning - you just don’t realise it until you experience that soul-shifting, life-changing experience you have happen in an otherwise ordinary day. — Brianna Wiest

Every moment holds the potential for change, but we often don’t recognize it until something profoundly shifts our outlook. Life’s biggest transformations can stem from the smallest, most unexpected moments in what seems like an ordinary day.