Cortado: July 27, 2020

This is a new series I’m starting, where I’ll share an update of what I’m up to. Here you’ll find what I’m reading, what I’m buying (and eyeing), what is inspiring me this week. I hope you enjoy.

Last week was all over the place for me. This week - just in time for my 23rd birthday - will be all about resetting and prioritizing self-care.

What I’m reading

I know I’m late to the game, but I’m in the midst of White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo. My copy is already dogeared and filled with notes and underlines. An essential for you and any of your White (and non-Black) friends who need an eye-opening text written in a manner that even your Whitest friends can get.

What I’m listening to

Listening to more mellow music this week while I work. I made a new playlist of songs I’m listening to here.

Things I’m eyeing

We were all eyeing the jjjjound NB 992 collab that sold out in seconds last week. If you didn’t manage to get your hands on a pair, here are some things I’ve been adding to (cart) my wish list.

Things I’m trying

I have the privilege of testing out so many different beauty products. Here are the ones that I’m loving - especially the Chanel UV Essentiel, which launched in Canada this past month.

I shared this Malin + Goetz Replenishing Serum as part of my core skincare routine last week. It’s light and refreshing for summer, and I love the instant plumping effect it provides.

This Westman Atelier cream blush is divine. I don’t love powder products, especially in the summer, and this is the perfect hue for tanned skin. I use the shade “Petal”.

I am particular about physical exfoliants. While I wanted to love the Tata Harper regenerating cleanser, I think my skin reacted badly to something in their product formulations. I love how fine this ESPA skin polish is, and comparable physical face exfoliators include Kate Somerville’s Exfolikate (I can guarantee that this is a little easier on the wallet).

What I’m looking at

Happy Monday - I made a new mood board for you. Despite the heat wave in Toronto, I’m loving luxurious, laid back loungewear looks and effortless outfits worthy of a vacation in the South of France. Consider this a virtual vacation.

It feels strange to grasp that fashion shows are happening right now. Brands have had to reinvent how they showcase fashion, and some of my favourites have been the films (Hermès Spring 2021 Menswear, for example) available to the masses online.

Some of my favourite collections are:

Jil Sander Resort 2021 (especially the bags with the handle details)

Hermès Spring 2021 Menswear (the show was set in Les Ateliers Hermès in Pantin - such a breathtakingly beautiful and airy space)

Jacquemus Spring 2021 Ready-to-wear (I know everyone says it’s the same old, but I love it. I love his dreamy paysan aesthetic)

Lemaire Spring 2021 Menswear (probably the most wearable show I’ve seen so far)