1. The Coolest Way to Print (and Display) Insta Photos
There's something about getting your hands on printed photographs that feels so special and rare today (especially when they're featuring your favorite people, places and things). I ordered a Square Print Set from Artifact Uprising a few weeks ago (you can order 25 prints, starting at $14) and it was the easiest thing. All I had to do was upload the photos (from my Instagram, camera roll, etc.) and gorgeous, textured, matte-finished prints were delivered a few days later. Tom got me this as a gift a year or two ago (he's a big fan of the brand) and it's a such a simple, pretty way to display a batch of photos and switch them up depending on your mood, the season, etc.
2. The Statement Tee with Great Humility
If you're looking for ways to make a difference after the deeply upsetting events in Charlottesville (and around the world) this past week, I love this story (think: ways to stay informed and take action) from one of my favorite blogs, Cup of Jo. You can also start small by donating—and making a statement—with Everlane's 100% Human line of sweatshirts, tees and tanks: $5 from each item goes to organizations like the ACLU and Equality Now. (I have this one.)
3. The Happiest Lunch Bag
I've found the lunch bag of my inner 13-year-old's dreams. I use it to carry my sandwich and snacks to work (I'm truly 13 going on 31) and it's also great for traveling, picnics and trips to the beach. It's not huge, so I can still throw it in my work bag. (Although it does come in a bigger size.) Best of all, I can't take myself too seriously whenever I break out my lunch, whatever kind of mood I'm in. (I can only imagine what my coworkers think...)
4. The Ultimate Way to Channel Friends Style
I've been bingeing on Friends this summer, starting from the beginning. I watched it sometimes growing up, but I was pretty young when it was on TV, so it's fun to watch it now as an adult. (Although it does make me feel old—they're supposed to be like 25?!) One of the best parts of the show, besides the general silliness of it, is the major ’90s style inspo from Phoebe, Rachel and Monica. Think: slip dresses, overalls, cropped tops, high-waisted jeans, pretty much all the looks that are in now. I came across this Instagram page, and it was like making a new, er, friend who has a mutual love for all things Friends style. Yay!
5. The Wear-Everywhere Black Backpack
I love how there's a removable interior section that holds a laptop and a water bottle in this Lo & Sons backpack. It's made from recycled material and features a travel-friendly back panel that slides over your suitcase handle. The best part? The minimal, label-free design. Basically, it's a dream backpack. 👌🏼
Guest Contributor
Kaitlin McCabe
Kaitlin is a 29-year-old, NYC-based project manager and marketing coordinator at an outplacement and redeployment firm. She's been known to give hilarious off-the-cuff speeches at parties, she's super into staying fit and eating clean, and in her spare time, she's a makeup artist. Here, she talks about her fave beauty product of the moment, TanTowel towelettes.
"I've had a hard time finding a self-tanner that doesn’t streak, is easy to use, and doesn’t make me look like an Oompa Loompa, so I love TanTowel towelettes. My mom told me about them. I usually buy them from Ulta or Jet.com. To apply, I start with my face and then I work my way down my body in a circular motion, like you're drying yourself off with a towel. The tan lasts anywhere from three to five days—the towels really make an Irish girl glow in the summer months. I like to use them year-round, too, and before a big event. They also make your makeup look flawless! I especially love using them before going on vacation so I can score a pre-tan before I step out on the beach."
BTW, none of the products or brands on this page are sponsored, I simply think they're really great.
Top two photographs by Tom Schelling. Bottom photograph provided by Kaitlin McCabe