The 20 Something Handbook
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- The Fall "IT GIRL" Wardrobe
It is officially fall, so you know what that means: FALL FASHION! I love my wardrobe the most in the fall - so many layers, it is super cozy, and I feel in my element. We are going to talk about the trending “IT GIRL” must-haves you need in your closet this season. Leopard Print Leopard print is making a comeback. Although it is a loud print, you can totally tone it down by wearing neutral pieces with it. The combination with the neutral pieces will add flair without overwhelming the outfit. Having one piece of leopard print is such a statement this fall. It can be a top, shoes, or even as simple as a phone case. Scarfs Scarves are a classic piece to have in the fall. This year, I want to get more neutrals or bold striped scarves. They are perfect for layering and keeping warm this season. You can wear a scarf in multiple ways, and it will make the outfit look different every time. It gives you a chance to mix textures and patterns together. You can also use them as a hair accessory or a bag embellishment. Maroon or Red Shoes Maroon or red shoes will be the pop of color to make any fall outfit perfect! They can be sneakers, heels, or flats. These colored shoes will elevate any simple outfit, making it look more thought out and polished. If you want to take it further, you can match them with a bag, phone case, or belt. Silver Sequins Silver sequins, not any other color, but silver, give a glam factor to a nighttime look. Having one item, such as a skirt or a top, be the main event with jeans or a white top will make you look so stylish. You will always be the IT GIRL with this statement piece. Baseball Caps This trend has been around in both fall and summer, but this season, having a very effortless look is always timeless. Throwing on a baseball coat in any color with any outfit just makes it casually chic. My prediction for baseball colors this season is forest green or maroon. It is also an easy accessory to work with. Cherry Mocha Nail Polish I know this isn’t clothing, but it’s a beauty essential for the season. I feel like bright red nails were the “it girl” nail polish of fall last year. This year we are doing cherry mocha; it is a mix of red, brown, and a hint of maroon all in one. This warm hue captures the essence of fall. I am completely obsessed with this color! It is a shade that can transition from day to night and pairs well with a variety of skin tones.
- Seasonal Vision Boards
As we slowly transition from summer to fall, my favorite time of year, I want to share my approach to vision boards. While many people create a yearly vision board at the beginning of the year, I prefer to make one for each season. Each season brings its own goals and benefits that I like to focus on. I find that a yearly vision board can sometimes lead to unrealistic goals, be too broad or vague, or simply be forgotten over time. Creating a seasonal vision board helps me stay accountable and engaged with my intentions. Let’s dive into my personal motivation and the benefits of this seasonal approach. Why I Do It This Way: My personal motivation for doing it seasonally instead of yearly is that I can hold myself accountable for the steps I take to reach my end goal. It also serves as a marker because, at the end of each season, I review my goals and see what I have accomplished. The best part is that it sets you up for success by having short-term goals that help you achieve the long-term goals. Every season is only a 3-month period, so it only encourages you to complete your goals in a shorter time frame. The benefits of doing it seasonally are that you can align your work with the seasons instead of having them work against you. What Each Season Brings: You can set certain intentions with each season. Each season brings new themes to our lives. These themes can be used to our advantage throughout the year to help us accomplish the most out of those seasons. Summer Themes: (June 20 - September 21) Growth, Abundance, Freedom, Community, Exploration, and Relaxation. Summer brings a peak in nature, relaxation for vacation, a more active lifestyle, and reminds us to be more present. We are going out more often with friends and family, especially outside of the home. Summer invites exploration of new activities and stepping out of comfort zones. We are filled with energy and break out of our normal routine. Fall Themes: (September 22- December 20) Harvest, Reflection, Preparation, Change, and Gratitude. Fall reminds us to let go and change with the weather and ourselves, to celebrate the fruits of our labor from summer, and to unwind. We transition from a busy pace at the beginning of this season to a slower pace toward the end. It encourages us to reflect on our personal journeys as we approach the end of the year. We also move into a more family-oriented time with many major holidays ahead. Winter Themes: (December 21 – March 20) Rest, Introspection, Togetherness, Hibernation, Stillness, and Resilience. Winter signifies a time of rest; it allows us to rejuvenate in preparation for new beginnings. There is stillness and quiet during this season. It encourages us to be more mindful and appreciate the warmth of home. Winter also brings a lot of inner strength, helping us get through such a slower time. Remember, it is vital for us to be still in order to grow into a next season. Spring Themes: (March 20- June 21) Rebirth, Transformation, Optimism, Inspiration, Connection to Nature, and Hope. Spring is a new beginning that awakens us to nature and our inner selves. We can form new ideas and aspirations during this time. We truly bloom and feel more motivated, both physically and mentally. We reconnect with nature and the world around us. It gives us hope for the new season. Topics I Focus On: Career Mind/Self Beauty Health/Wellness Marriage Travel You can make any topic your own that you personally focus on. This is just what I generally concentrate on each season. I am a girly girl, so beauty is a main topic for me, but your topics can look completely different, such as school, faith, or family. I set at least three or more goals for each topic and try to be realistic about what I can accomplish within these three months. I write them down in my journal before creating the visual board, just so I have a clear understanding of what I want from each season. Where I Create It: I create a digital vision board on Canva and set it as my wallpaper on my phone. It serves as a reminder to myself during this season of what I want to achieve for myself at this time. Reflection After the season is over, I like to reflect and go over what I wrote down to see where I can improve for the next season. I usually set up my room with candles or dim lighting and just take in the end of the season. I use this time to express gratitude for the previous one and anticipate what will come in the next one. I repeat this process for the next season.
- Everything Showers!
We love an EVERYTHING shower routine! Here is my step-by-step routine of what my everything showers look like. It’s a long process, but once you are in it, you know you can’t stop until it’s perfect. Everything showers can be after a long week, vacation, or monthly routine. The thing about an everything shower is it doesn’t matter if it's practiced every week or every month. One thing is certain: you feel oh so good about it after it is done! I will walk you through my pre-shower, everything shower, and my post-shower with a step-by-step guide, including all products I personally use. All products are also Yuka approved with clean ingredients. Pre-Shower Step One: Set Water Temperature Are you a fan of piping hot or cold showers? I don’t believe there is an in-between. Both have great health benefits depending on what you need for your body. Step Two: Brush Hair I wanted to add this in as a gentle reminder. Just brush your hair out so you don't have any tangles. This step makes shampooing and conditioning a lot easier. Step Three: Hair Oil I like to apply rosemary hair oil all over my scalp and rub it in. I typically leave it on for about 10-20 minutes before showering. I use a silicone massager to massage the scalp before stepping in. Step Four: Dry Brush Dry brush all over your body in a circular motion, focusing on your armpits, thighs, and arms. I like to leave my hair oil while I do this step. Dry brushing has many benefits like lymphatic support, exfoliation, improving blood circulation, and reducing cellulite. You can find it on Amazon.com . Everything Shower Step One: Double Shampooing First, I use Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. I have a dry and flaky scalp, so I make sure to use this at least once a week. It has truly helped my scalp. You can find it at Target.com . The second shampoo I use is SheaMoisture Aloe Butter Scalp Moisturizing Shampoo, which I use daily during my regular showers. I only shampoo the top of my head, not the ends. I love SheaMoisture products; they are my go-to brand! You can find it at Target.com Step Two: Conditioner I love to lather conditioner onto the middle and ends of my hair. Since conditioner is usually quite thick, I avoid applying it to my scalp to prevent buildup and clogged pores. I use SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate & Repair Conditioner, which you can find at Target.com Step Three: Face Wash I love washing my face in the shower, especially after using shampoo and conditioner. I use the Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser by B Lab, which you can find it on Amazon.com It’s a Korean skincare brand that foams up nicely and very hydrating. Step Four: Double Body Wash (Dove Bar Soap) I start by washing my body with a sensitive skin Dove bar soap. I make sure to do this as the first step so I’m clean for the next stages. You can find it at Target.com Step Five: Exfoliate I exfoliate using SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Illuminating Hand and Body Scrub. I focus on my entire body, especially my feet, thighs, and elbows. You can find it at Traget.com Step Six: Shave I use one razor for my armpits and legs, and a separate one for my bikini area. Step Seven: Body Wash/Gel After shaving, I do one last body wash. I use Native Body Wash in Coconut/Vanilla and a silicone body scrubber to lather my entire body. You can find it at Traget.com Step Eight: Body Oil This is my favorite step: while still wet, I rub body oil all over to really lock in moisture. Body oil leaves me smelling great and makes my skin so soft. I use SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Bath and Body Massage Oil, which smells amazing. I’m a sucker for anything coconut, vanilla, or honey. Afterward, make sure to pat dry with a towel so you don't rub off the body oil. You can find it at Target.com Post Shower Step One: Body Lotion After my shower, I love to take my time with my post-care routine. I start by using SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Illuminating Body Lotion all over my body. As you can tell, I really love this brand and scent! You can find it at Target.com Step Two: Brush Hair This is a simple step, but I thought I should include it for detail. I like to brush my hair starting from the ends and working my way up to the roots. This technique helps minimize pulling on my hair. Step Three: Leave In Conditioner This is a snippet of my hair care routine. I love using Kristin Ess Weightless Shine Leave-In Conditioner Spray on the middle and ends of my hair. The best part is how weightless this product feels; it doesn't weigh my hair down at all. Plus, it smells like you just walked out of a salon! You can find it at Target.com Step Four: Hair Oil I am obsessed with all Gisou products! Their hair oil is fantastic, and the packaging is perfect. I apply the oil to the ends of my hair, which helps reduce frizz and provides ultra hydration with an amazing shine. The syringe is great because it dispenses just the right amount of oil. You can find it at Sephora.com Step Five: Braid Hair After applying all my hair products, I like to put my hair in two low braids. I’ve noticed that this helps keep my hair from getting too frizzy. And that’s my final step in my EVERYTHING shower routine!
- Morning Skin Care Routine
Good morning! When it comes to morning routines, I like to make mine simple and easy to follow. We are just waking up from our beauty sleep our routine needs to be amazing yet affective! This is my current morning routine feel free to check out the links provided if you're interested or considering a change in your routine. Keeping it simple and clean is key. Just remember that all skin types are different and beautiful! Cleanser - Match Hydrating Foam Cleanser: $12 - I absolutely love foaming cleansers because they make me feel so fresh and 10 times cleaner! When I was dealing with acne, it was horrible, but I found that simplifying my skincare routine with gentle and clean ingredient products made a world of difference. My skin may not be perfect, but it has come a long way. This Korean cleanser, with a Yuka app rating of 93/100, is my go-to. You can find it on Amazon.com Eye Cream- Yerba Mate Wake Up Gel: $6 - Is my new addition to the morning skincare routine this year. I started a bad habit of staying up late, which have been causing dark circles under my eyes. This eye cream brightens the under-eye area. It has a perfect rating of 100/100 on the Yuka app. You can purchase it at Ulta.com Moisturizer: Snail Rescue All-In-Deep Moisturizer Cream $16.99 - I wanted to incorporate snail mucin into my skin routine without having to add another extra step. This moisturizer was a win for me for it being an all-in-one. It belongs to a Korean skincare range, which, in my opinion, is a highly underrated brand since it is affordable and amazing products. It has a perfect rating of 100/100 on Yuka. Available at Ulta.com Sunscreen: Native Mineral Face Lotion - Unscented - SPF 30 $15.99 - This specific brand sunscreen is actually a new addition to my routine. My last sunscreen changed their formula, so it was not Yuka approved. So far, I love it! You do have to rub it in, but it doesn't leave a white cast. It is rated 86/100 on Yuka. Traget.com
- Current Favorite Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty : It is truly the number one health podcast in the world for a reason! You get to hear so many beautiful testimonies and perspectives from all kinds of walks of life. You learn something new after every episode, whether it’s about life, healthy habits, or learning from others. Jay Shetty also naturally has such a soothing voice that makes this podcast such an easy podcast to listen to. I love that he has podcast videos on YouTube, so I get to watch these interviews in my room. You can listen to his podcast on Apple Music, Spotify, & YouTube. Giggle Squad : I AM A #1 GIGGLER FAN! Paige and Hannah are THE dynamic duo you need to listen to! They are silly, funny, and gorgeous girls from New York City. My cousin Jeyda recommended their podcast, and I have never stopped listening since. They talk about all things fashion, mental health, life experiences, celebrity gossip, hot topics, cats, and so much more. It truly feels like you are on a call with your two best friends, just giggling and having girl talk. I love to listen to them on my way to work or while cooking dinner at home. You can listen to their podcast on Apple Music, Spotify, & YouTube. Hot Girl Energy Podcast : This podcast is my favorite when I am trying to be my most productive self. Kaylie reminds me that I AM THAT GIRL and encourages me to channel my inner hot girl energy. She talks about all things self-help, the latest trends, and advice on becoming your best self. I also love that we were both planning our weddings at the same time and have been with our partners for about the same amount of time as well. I enjoy listening to her while I am cleaning the house or running errands. You can listen to her podcast on Apple Music and Spotify. In Flow : I love the flow of this podcast with Ani B and Nadine, and I'm hoping there will be a second season! They cover all things self-help when it comes to the mind and soul. They teach you healthy habits, how to overcome life’s obstacles, and how to let go of what no longer serves you. These sweet gals from Orange County are beautiful inside and out. I love to listen to them while I do my self-care routine to get into the right headspace. You can listen to their podcast on Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube.
- Morning Juice Ritual
Good morning! I love starting my morning with my 3 step morning ritual. I created this routine for myself to eat more greens and roots in my diet and just start my day off on the right foot. For me, doing things early in the morning always gets me in the right headspace. 1. 1 shot of ginger shot or turmeric shot – preferable the trader Joe’s brand since it’s more affordable for a wellness shot. Ginger is known for being the best roots to take to clear congestion, promotes gut health, and for women relieves menstrual cramps. Turmeric helps with acne, anti-anxiety, and fights inflammation. I like to rotate between these two roots because both have so many amazing benefits that the list can go on and on. This is the perfect way to kick start my immune system. 2. 1 shot of celery juice – I am always looking for more way to add more greens to my diet. Celery juice can lower cholesterol, antioxidants to help fight cancer, and alkalizes the body. Taking it in the morning helps really detox and cleanse your body. 3. 1 cup of carrot juice – I have heard mixed reviews about taking collagen so I decided to look for a more natural alternative. Carrot juice contains vitamin A which helps make your skin glow from within. I try to take lots of whole foods before I start looking for a supplement to help me.
- What is in my purse make up bag?
Honestly, our bags are like a magic act. We can carry am million things in such a small bag. I always carry THE MOST with me in my bag, but in my opinion everything is important. Inside my purse, I keep a mini emergency/makeup bag with lots of mini products that is essential when you least expect it. Let's be so real, we are all suckers for mini products. We all buy them because they are so cute and mini, especially in the Ulta and Sephora line. I would love to share with you my favorite mini products and what is in my make up bag! Now , let's break down what's in my make up bag. Glam 1. Mini Ilia Blush – At last 2. Mini Ilia Mascara 3. Mini Kosas Concealer 4. Dior Lip Maximizer Gloss – Rosewood 5. Mac Lip Liner – Stripped Down 6. Mini J’adore Eau de Parfum 7. Rare Beauty Hand Cream 8. Mini Hair Brush 9. Eyelash Curler Personal Essential 1. Tide Pen 2. Tampon 3. Compact Minor 4. Claw Clip 5. Hair Tie 6. Elastic Hair Tie 7. Listerine Pocketmist 8. Touchland Hand Sanitzer
- Must Read Gems
All these must read gems inspire readers to explore their inner selves, make positive habits, and navigate life with wisdom, grace, and purpose. If you are looking for your next read, definitely check these out! 1. Signs: The Secret Language of the Universe by Laura Lynne Jackson – This book taps you in to your spiritual realm and helps you explore signs from the universe. It was so enlightening and fascinating that each chapter shared a story of hope, life and death. It made me cry happy and sad tears. I had a close family member pass away, and this book helped me look for signs and process his death a lot more. It is a must read on my list especially to anyone who has lost a loved one. 2. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz – It is easier said than done. I try to live my life according to these four agreements because it helps you give more grace towards others, peace within yourself, and gain a fresh perspective on how to navigate life. It is a great reminder that your words hold power and communicate with others as clear as you can. This book gives you a new lens on life and how we interact with others and ourselves. 3. The Mountain is you: Transforming Self- Sabotage In to Self-Mastery by Brianna Wiest – This book proved challenging to read as it made me realize my own self-sabotaging behavior. It helped me to have healthier habits, become self-aware, and give more compassion to myself. It encourages you to face insecurities and reflect on one’s self. I recommend if you feel like you need to change from within and create better habits for yourself. 4.Think like a Monk: Train your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day by Jay Shetty – This book was a fun one to read since I was already familiar with his podcast. Jay Shetty shares his experience as a monk and his understanding of mindfulness. He gives a modern day insight on how to think like a monk. This book helps you be more mindful and live a purposeful life with gratitude.
- My Daily Supplements
In your 20s, we are living carefree, but let's not forget about our health! Let's talk about vitamins and supplements. My current routine is really simple and prioritized to my specific goals. I can be very forgetful, so the simpler things are, the better for me to make it a habit. 1. Women’s Multivitamin by Health by Habit - $9.79 It has Vitamins A-E, Zinc, Iron, Cranberry, & Folate. All you need is one per day for all your essential vitamins needs. It comes with a 60ct which is perfect for the price point for 2 whole months! They did change their bottle, so it might look a bit different than the photo. You can find this at Target.com 2. Nutrafol Hair Growth Nutraceutical – $80 This is a definitely treat yourself supplement with its price point. In my experience, these hair growth pills are the most effective I've tried. It comes with 120ct since you need to take it 4 x a day, but I do one in the morning & one night. It just helps me make it last longer, with the same results! (see photo for reference) Now my hair is so long and healthy! You can find this at Sephora.com 3. Lion’s Mane by Om Mushroom Superfood - $15 I am currently obsessed with this supplement it is the best to take for brain fog, memory focus, superfood for your brain, and just to get tasks done! I swear by this supplements so much, it helps to be focused without the anxiety or energy boosters. Typically, I take one a day maybe twice if I truly need to be focused on a task. You can find this at WholeFoods.com 4. Magnesi-Om by Moon Juice -$42 I typically add 1 tsp to my sleepy girl mocktail (recipe to be shared soon) or evening tea. This supplement helps me completely unwind before bed. It helps when I am having trouble sleeping or just really need a full rest. Totally worth the extra step into your night routine. You can find this at Ulta.com When it comes to supplements its helpful to listen to your body’s needs. Everyone is different and has different needs for their body. As of right now, my daily supplement is simple and effective for me and my lifestyle. I want to add more, but I want my body to be more adjusted with these first. Friendly that staying well-hydrated is crucial when taking vitamins and supplements, as they are being absorbed by the body.
- Spring Beauty Must Haves
What every 20 something beauty girly needs during this spring season. Ladies, we are in a season of starting fresh and starting over. We want to smell, feel, and look our greatest after coming out of our winter hibernation. Spring is the perfect season to start something new and try new products. Here are some spring beauty essentials you need to try! Body Scrubs Frank Body Original Coffee Scrub : $20 Time to shed off dead skin cells and indulge in your new radiant skin. I use this scrub about 1-2x a week depending on how my body looks and feels. It exfoliates, smooth, and hydrates skin. It's also made firm and lift marks. Although it is a coffee scrub, it doesn't make you smell like coffee. This body scrub is 86/100 on Yuka app. Sold at ulta.com & Frankbody.com Hand creams Rare Beauty Find Comfort Hydrating Hand Cream: $18 We are all recovering from winter dry hands, it's so important because our hands can tell our age. I use it all the time at work or whenever I finish washing my hands. I am obsessed with the fresh and natural scent. The packaging is perfect to fit in any purse and very aesthetically pleasing. This hand cream is 72/100 on Yuka app. Sold at Sephora.com & Rarebeauty.com 2. Sephora Collection Hand Balm: $6 A more affordable hand cream is the Hand Balm from the Sephora Collection. The Sephora Collection is the most underrated skin care line on the market with so many products that are actually good for you and truly unbeatable prices. Including this hand balm that is super compact, but does an amazing job at nourishing and repairing your hands. This hand balm is 86/100 on Yuka app. Sold at Sephora.com Hair Perfume Gisou Honey Infused Hair Perfume: $44 Trying out this new scent and new product this season. I have been dying to try this product for the longest time and finally thought it was the perfect time to do so. I am always a sucker for any product that will make me smell amazing, and this one is IT. It is a honey infused hair perfume with notes of roses, perfect for smelling like a bed of roses this spring. It is for all hair types and texture. This hair perfume is 50/100 on Yuka app. Sold at Sephora.com & Gisou.com Lip Oils: Gisou Honey Infused Hy drating L ip Oil in Strawberry Sorbet: $28 Since we are on the topic of Gisou, they just launched new hydrating lip oils. The Honey Infused Hydrating Lip Oil has been my holy grail of lip oils. I mainly use it at night or after I am done with my at home facials. This time on my Sephora trip, I decided to treat myself and try the new Strawberry Sorbet, it's a sheer pinky red perfect for some tint this spring. This lip oil is 72/100 on Yuka. Sold at Sephora.com & Gisou.com