On Social Events & Industry Shifts.
Plus bits from the Sephora Sale and my Weekly Top.
Last night, I had Shopbop's 25th birthday party celebration! It was at Jeans, a hot spot among all NYC cool kids. After doing this for over a decade, I've become a pro at attending these events without knowing if I'll have any acquaintances or friends to hang with. The truth is, I used to have a lot of really close friends in the industry. If I wasn't touching base with someone before with a "Hey! Are you going tonight?" I was confident that I'd at least know someone upon walking in. With COVID, a lot of those I was tight within this industry moved away. It was a big adjustment then, and on most days, it still is
The good news is that I've learned, with age and a lot of experience, that I can handle most social situations. Last night, I walked into the event, and the friend I was meeting up with wasn't there yet. I barely knew a single person. No one I felt comfortable walking up to and inserting myself into their conversation. The industry has been flooded with a new wave of talented Content Creators, TikTokers, and those with the energy and social battery to attend these parties. Yesterday, I looked around the room, thinking, "Who the hell are these people?!" I'm sure they're all mega TikTok stars or have a way bigger following than I do, but I felt out of my element. I felt older (old?) and like I should be at home, sitting on my couch watching the new season of Curb.
And don't get me wrong. I love a social function. I don't consider myself an introvert, but neither an extrovert; I'm an ambivert, which is smack in the middle. I don't enjoy being a full-blown homebody. I thrive off social communication and experiencing the world as it's happening around me. I love looking at people to see what they're wearing and doing. I love meaningful conversations that go from the superficial to deep. I'm such a libra, through and through. If I'm home for too many days in a row, I start feeling sad and suffocated. However, at this point, I'm not as interested if I'm walking into a fabulous party and I don't have my squad. It's different than sitting at a bar or restaurant solo, which I love. At these events, I can handle the social aspect without getting too awkward, but that's what comes with doing this for as long as I have. Also, being able to handle it is different than thoroughly enjoying it.
I'm not sure where I'm going with this, but I wanted to share my thoughts. While you may see certain highlights on Instagram, there's always more to what is being shown with a photo.
That said, I had fun. A lot of that comes with giving myself mental pep talks and gratitude towards the situation. I know how lucky I am, and I never take it for granted. I dressed up and felt cute for a bit, had a solo hangout for half an hour and people-watched. Then I saw my friend, had a drink, danced to a few songs, and was home by 12. I can do that every once in a while, but it can’t be too often.
Ramble over.
Moving on….
If you are as excited about the Sephora Sale as I am, it has officially started for Rogue members! Use code YAYSAVE.
The Sephora collection is open to everyone, regardless of your Sephora status. I love their brushes! I've put together a very detailed blog post here. If you're not up for the more extensive post, I'm going to highlight a few favorites below:
Elemis is now at Sephora. I don't like being without the Cleansing Balm, the Resurfacing Pads, and the Dynamic Resurfacing Cleanser. I use the balm to remove makeup and SPF and the Resurfacing Cleanser for my second cleanse or when I want something lighter. The
Westman Atelier Highlighter: I've tried a ton of highlighters, both cream and powder, and I always come back to this one. I also have a full Westman Atelier dedicated post.
Kérastase Hair Mask: This is a fabulous hair mask for when my hair needs a good dose of moisture. I use it in the shower after shampooing or leave it on for a few hours or overnight.
InniFree SPF: One of the best facial SPFs out there, and I know many of you agree. The formula makes it easy to use on its own or to layer with another product.
I’ve included everything here, but I wanted to mention these shorts. They were a random purchase, and I’m happy to report that they’re fab. I took my usual size.
I feel a little guilty for including such a ludicrously priced pair of jeans, included in my Weekly Top, but I love them so much. In general, Nili Lotan has become one of my favorite high-end brands and I have several of her pieces on my lust list.
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xoxo,
Helena
Thank you so much for sharing so openly 💖
But this is why I love your content—it’s relatable and real!! And you looked fab at the party 🙌 Have a great weekend 🫶