New season, new Lulus haul! If your wallet has been feeling the strain of all the gorgeous fall jackets, bags, and shoes floating around this season (is it just me, or is autumn autumning harder than usual?), Lulus is your answer. The online shop has all the best fall trends you’ve been salivating over on Pinterest for a whole lot less than the Zaras, Mangos and Aritzias of the world.

Don’t believe me? Check out the five pieces the brand sent me for the season at hand. For less than $250—a.k.a. the same amount you’d spend on a single pair of boots—you can snag two dresses, a pair of cozy clogs, a quilted jacket and a sheer blouse. And honestly? I’d pay double for every single one of them—they’re *that* good.

While you might need to play around with Lulus sizing—the XS pieces tend to fluctuate between “tight,” “just right” and “too big” on me—they’re worth an exchange or a little extra tailoring if you can’t size down. (You might even be able to get away with this little stitch gun I’ve been seeing floating around online.)

The best Lulus stuff tends to sell out quickly, however, so I recommend scooping up my fall faves below while you still can.

My Fall Lulus Haul

1. Lulus Moroni Tweed Dress

Gossip Girl, anyone? This dress is giving serious Blair Waldorf vibes, particularly when paired with black tights and a beret. It’s on the thicker side (read: It’s actually warm), but you could also style it with a turtleneck underneath for an added layer of cozy. It’s hand-wash only, but it’s cute enough to justify the added effort, in my humble opinion.

Other Lulu’s Tweed Finds

2. Lulus Joana Dress

This little sweater dress looks—and feels—a lot pricier than its $39 sale tag. This isn’t that sweater that’s going to look cute on but feel like a Brillo pad on your skin, leaving you with a raging eczema flare-up. (You know the one.) It’s made of a nice, thick stretchy material that’s actually comfortable and fits like a glove. The capped shoulders offer a nice balance if you’ve got wider hips, and the front patch pockets make for excellent little hand warmers, if I do say so myself.

Other Green Lulus Dresses

3. Lulus Angelically Airy Blouse

Winters, now is your moment to shine. Jewel tones, like this striking wine hue, are everywhere right now. Case in point? This gorgeous sheer Lulus blouse with soft balloon sleeves. Perfect for date night (I’d throw on some leather pants to zhuzh it up a bit), it’s a statement-making shirt that doesn’t require too much effort. The built-in tank does run a little big, making the bra situation a bit tricky, but I think I could make due with a strapless.

Other Lulus Wine Pieces

4. Lulus Charisma Jacket

This fall jacket is no one-season wonder. Nay, this, friends, is an instant closet staple you’ll be reaching for for years to come at the earliest hint of a draft. It feels like wearing a super soft blanket, but the draped neckline and elasticized hem at the back keep it from being shapeless—in fact, the fit is one of the things I like best about it. The site says it runs large, but I found that my normal size of XS fit perfectly—I wouldn’t recommend sizing down.

5. Lulus Pereta Clogs

I’ve never been a Birkenstocks girlie. While I’ll shell out for a pair of heels, I just can’t bring myself to spend upwards of $100 on a glorified slipper. These Lulus clogs are a great alternative—they’re cute, they’re comfy, and they’re a quarter of the price of the real deal. While the color from the website isn’t exactly true to form, they’re still neutral enough to match all of your fave loungewear—and then some.

Other Lulus Clogs

Which Lulus piece is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!

Xo, Nicole

The post My Lulus Fall Haul Is a PSL-Lover’s Dream—and It’s Less Than $250 appeared first on nicolebjean.

For many years, I had a love/hate relationship with Zara. I’d see someone wearing something impeccably chic on the streets of Chicago, inquire about their outfit, and nine times out of ten, the Spanish retailer’s name would drop from their lips. But whenever I went into the store, I never had quite that same luck … until my latest Zara haul.

Before, a piece would catch my eye, and they’d have it in my size, but when I’d go to try it on, something about it was always just a hair… off. If the heel fit my foot, there would be a weird little gap at the sides that made it impossible to walk in. If I spied a dress I desperately wanted, it be would be sewn just a titch lopsided. If the jeans fit in the waist, they would be laughably long. (You get the idea.)

I had resigned myself to admiring the store’s wares from afar — until Kate Moss debuted her own Zara collection in November 2024 that proved too irresistible for me not to succumb to. I ordered three pieces, fully expecting to send them all back. Miraculously, all of them fit.

Emboldened, I tried Zara again a few months later with some non-Kate merch. Not only did I have the same luck in the fit department, I was super impressed with the design of the items I received, with one of my new rompers looking like it was custom-made.

Apparently, the brand has gone through some sizing changes as of late, and while I’ve seen mixed feedback overall, its new cuts are an absolute dream for petites, meaning I’m officially on good graces with Zara. Only one (gorgeous) Kate Moss-designed dress failed my fit tests, and honestly, I suspect the fact that it was short enough to show cheek on one side could have been a purposeful ploy by Moss herself.

For fall, I nabbed five pieces that not only had me salivating over their impossible chicness, but their versatility, too. Without even meaning to, I found myself with a brand new capsule collection.

Below, the Zara haul I’ll be living in this autumn—and beyond.

Zara Haul: Fall Edition

1. Zara Double-Layer Poplin Shirt

One thing about me: Basics can be a hard sell. I’m a maximalist through and through, and I love things that look super unique. This layered piece managed to capture my attention like no other button-down ever has thanks to its original cape-like design, but can still be filed under “classic wardrobe staple.”

3. Zara Collection Lace Camisole Top

If you’re a regular Zara shopper, you’ve probably heard tell of the asymmetric lace dress that’s been blowing up on Tiktok (a.k.a. selling out at record speeds). It’s definitely a head-turner, but after my aforementioned experience with the Kate dress, which was cut in a similar fashion, I decided not to take my chances. Instead, I opted for this similarly cut lace cami, which comes at a fraction of the price without the risk of flashing anyone. (Win-win!) My only complaint? The straps aren’t adjustable.

3. Zara Sleeveless Floral Top

This little shell has a lot going for it. In fact, between the rosette detailing, the built-in lining at the chest (no hint of my black bra here!) and the “add-to-cart now” price tag, there’s not a whole lot stopping me from buying it in the two other colors it comes in of black and red.

4. Zara Soft V-Neck Sweater and Zara TRF High-Waist Crop Flare Jeans

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve grown to appreciate a plain old V-neck jumper. Flashy, she is not, but if Ashley Olsen can wear one to the CFDA Awards and be hailed as “easy elegant,” I can make room for a lookalike in my closet. This one is perfectly oversized and reasonably soft to boot. It’s also supposedly machine washable, though I’m a bit skeptical of the claim. (TBD.)

As for the jeans, these might just be my new (second) favorite pair. While they don’t quite make me feel like Bella Hadid in quite the same way my Moussy Vintage Wynwood’s do (premium Japanese denim will have that affect on a gal), these fit, and they fit well. It’s no doubt thanks to the little disclaimer that calls out that “This item is smaller and shorter than usual.” (Finally, a pair for us shorties!) I’m wearing them in Blue here, but the light blue is so good, I just ordered a second pair.

What are you buying from Zara this fall? Let me know in the comments below!

Xo, Nicole

The post My Fall Zara Haul Has Everything You Need to Build an (Affordable) Capsule Collection appeared first on nicolebjean.

Earlier this month, after a long break from traveling, I found myself in the Big Apple—New York, New York. While I was there for business to attend a work conference, I had a few free evenings, so naturally, I did my due diligence on where to eat in New York.

I didn’t waste any time looking at any menus, chefs or actual food, mind you. No, I selected my dining experiences the same way I picked out my leopard adidas x Wales Bonner sneakers (coming to my feed soon): a.k.a. entirely based on aesthetic.

Basically, if it had greenery, eye-catching wallpaper or an Instagram-worthy feature (like, say, a rotating carousel adorned with oversized flowers), I RSVP-ed “yes.”

Though the highlight of the trip was a visit to the aptly named Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge in the Moxie Hotel, there was plenty of charm leading up to its splendor in the form of champagne flights, drool-worthy dessert and what is arguably some of the best décor in the whole of NYC.

Bear in mind: I make no claims to be a local expert. I live near Tampa, so if you’re a native New Yorker and you’re offended that your favorite local haunt isn’t on this list, you can scroll right on by: This post probably isn’t for you. I’m sure I missed about a gajillion other incredibly amazing spots—it is New York after all. These picks are simply ones I’ve personally visited and enjoyed. 

Whether you’ve got a trip to the city planned and you’re looking for something out of the ordinary or you already live there, but need a spot that’s guaranteed to impress your next guest, this is where to eat in New York when you’re seeking something more.

1. The Whitby Bar & Hotel

Best for Coffee

If it’s a good cup of java you’re after, skip the Starbucks. Not only will the line be atrocious (savvy New Yorkers will have already ordered online, leaving you waiting like a dope), you’ll be robbing yourself of an absolutely amazing latte—not to mention some truly stunning décor—at The Whitby Bar & Restaurant in Midtown. Nestled inside The Whitby Hotel, its interior design comes courtesy of one and only Londoner Kit Kemp, whose work is practically synonymous with whimsy. Seriously, the whole hotel is a dream (I was lucky enough to experience a stay in 2023), but even if you aren’t checking into one of the building’s jaw-dropping suites, at least take some time out to enjoy its expertly crafted java.

2. Champers Social Club

Best for Solo Dining

Most of the time, I’m traveling for work, which means that I’m flying solo. And picking a spot for dinner where one can comfortably eat without feeling awkward can be tricky—we all saw that And Just Like That finale! Champer’s Solo Club was perfect, since it allowed for last-minute reservations for one, had a cozy little table that was just the right size for a solo diner and a fast, friendly waitress who helped me pick a champagne flight and a particularly delicious plate of risotto. The dishes are a little frou frou (duck confit and lobster rolls are also on the menu), and I can’t say how much busier it would’ve been on a weekday versus a Sunday, but I was perfectly comfortable reading my book from my window seat in between bites.

3. Bar Sprezzatura

Best Dessert

I ate here several times on my trip (it was in my hotel, after all), and while I wasn’t particularly impressed with the drinks (the first cocktail I had had more sugar than alcohol, and I was told Bloody Marys were unavailable at 11 a.m., at which time they apparently only serve single-flavor mimosas), the atmosphere was quite lovely, with greenery strewn overhead and welcoming jewel-toned furniture. Head up before 11 p.m. and you’ll also be privy to a view of the skyline from the restaurant’s open-air balcony. My favorite thing about this place, however, was the Budino di Riso Vialone Nano, which I was told translates to “rice pudding.” Having never had have had rice pudding before, I gave it a go, and it just might be my new favorite dessert. Maybe it was the spice of the olive oil (don’t even get me started on my love for the stuff), or maybe it was the juxtaposition of the chewy rice with the soft, creamy pudding, but trust—it’s an absolute dream.

4. Oscar Wilde Restaurant & Bar

Most Whimsical

The Oscar Wilde bar in NoMad is always rather charming—think, “fancy library”—but I had the privilege of visiting it during its Alice in Wonderland-themed pop-up, which is set up in such a way that you’ll truly feel as though you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole. The massive statues found inside of Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum make it clear you’ve been transported into the inner workings of Lewis Carroll’s mind, while decks of playing cards, white rabbits in sports coats and vibrant flowers hanging from the ceiling add to the ambience. There’s also a (very cool) moving flower exhibit behind the bar. Sadly, the restaurant is bidding adieu to its storybook theme as of Labor Day, this time for good. I’m skeptical that anything will match it, but curious enough to want to check out what they might do with the place the next time I’m in town.

5. Magic Hour Full Bloom Restaurant & Bar

Most Instagram-Worthy

Not for our pièce de resistance: the Magic Hour’s Full Bloom summer floral bar pop-up, which is currently open through September. I was immediately enchanted by this brightly colored, garden-themed space when it popped up on my Tiktok feed, and it totally lived up to the hype. Walking in, you’re greeted by a cacophony of color courtesy of the giant faux floral arrangements that have been installed in seemingly every possible nook and cranny of the dreamscape-like space. They’re lining the wall. They’re hanging from the trestles. They’re nestled in the seating. More importantly, however, they’re adorning every square inch of the rotating carousel (!!) that’s situated at the bar’s center with built-in benches for a truly picturesque scene. Unlike say, Chicago, where this place would’ve been packed to the gills with bodies, this airy setting was busy but open, with plenty of space to take your best snaps. (I’ve been told that this was due in large part to the fact that the pop-up had already been open for several weeks at the time of my visit.) I’m also still dreaming about the Lavender Haze cocktail I had there, complete with a Filthy Black Cherry garnish that was worth writing home about.

What’s your favorite place to eat in NYC? Let me know in the comments below!

Xo, Nicole

The post Where to Eat in New York for an Instagram-Worthy Experience appeared first on nicolebjean.

I’m a sucker for a good matching set. While you won’t find me in the crop top or micro-short variety (I’ve aged out of that bracket, thank you very much), a twinning vest and pair of shorts? *Kisses fingers*

Below, three of the best matching sets I’m loving for 2025.

The Best Matching Sets

1. Lulus Mariette Vest and Shorts

Maybe it’s because they marketed it with a chic little headwrap on the site, but I feel like Audrey Hepburn traipsing around Rome the minute I put this set on. The material is thick, but not so thick that it’s uncomfortable, and the top fits like a glove. The shorts fit a little *too* snugly—I had to size up in them—but it was worth the return to get the proper size. I’ll get a ton of wear out of this!

2. ASTR Boat Neck Top and Shorts

Normally, I want nothing to do with linen (blasphemy, I know), but it wrinkles so damn easily, the payoff just isn’t worth it to me. This set, which is made from a viscose and linen blend, does wrinkle a bit, but it’s nothing my little LG Styler can’t make quick work of. It’s also incredibly comfortable. I probably wouldn’t wear the top on its own, since it’s on the shorter side and less versatile than the others, but it’s so effortlessly breezy, both pieces will definitely be in heavy rotation together. My one gripe about this one? It’s dry clean only.

3. Modevante Anya Top and Shorts

Buying this set was a total gamble—I spotted it on the Tiktok shop, and against my better judgment, I pulled the trigger. To my surprise, not only did I receive the exact item I ordered, it actually turned out to be a great little summer set. It is a super thick, high-quality material? No, but in Florida, where it’s 90 degrees everyday, I love that it’’s thin—I’d say almost cottony. A pro tip? The flap on the shorts goes in the back, not the front—I may or may not have worn them backwards four or five times before I figured it out. Whoopsie! *Shrugs*

As you can see, the matching sets I’m loving most for summer 2025 are tailored with elevated details (think chic little buttons) and light, airy materials.

Beyond simply being cute, these little two-pieces:

• Require little to no thought to wear: Eat your heart out, maxi dresses!
  
• Make you look instantly pulled together. I mean, you’re matching, for Christ’s sake, how much more polished can you get?
  
• Can be worn individually: Really, it’s like you’re getting two outfits for the price of one.
  
• Are super summery: A breezy little dream of a getup on a hot day? Yes, please!

Which set is your favorite? Tell me in the comments below.

Xo, Nicole

The post These 3 Matching Sets Are Taking Over My Closet appeared first on nicolebjean.

The toaster has to be the most boring appliance in your kitchen. Almost everything else has evolved by leaps and bounds since its inception. We’ve got coffee machines that are built to detect everything from your mug size to your preference for iced drinks — they’ll actually brew at lower temperatures that allow you get that signature cold brew flavor. We’ve got blenders that will not only get the job done in 45 seconds or less, they’ll clean their damn selves (yes, really). And then, there’s the tired old toaster, with its basic push-down lever to brown your day-old bread. Womp,  freaking womp. Since its commercial release in 1909, the toaster’s design has remained largely the same, albeit for a few shinier surface tweaks. As it turns out, though, we’ve all been sleeping on the best kitchen appliance since sliced bread: the Revolution toaster.

The brand sent me one to try and after using it for a year, I’m here to tell you that this thing is a marvel of modern design. It’s got a touchscreen that puts Cher’s Clueless closet to shame. It’s got a browning level for every type of starch you can imagine, from English muffins to waffles and pastries. It knows if you’re reheating or pulling a rock-hard Eggo from the freezer. And yet, somehow, it’s flown under all of our collective radars for the past six years, when it debuted in 2019.

My Revolution toaster review explains exactly what this little dream machine is capable of, how it holds up after a year’s worth of use and whether it’s *really* worth its $350 price tag.

Revolution Toaster Review

The Design

• My rating: 4/5

First thing’s first: The design. This thing is sleek. Available in a stainless-silver or a (cheaper) matte black version, it’s unassuming-yet-stylish on your kitchen counter.

This is not the kind of appliance you only pull out when you’re using it. Unlike its eyesore counterparts (looking at you, waffle maker), this is the type of gadget that you display proudly so as to let the world know that yes, that *is* the Revolution R180 Connect on my counter, thanks. (Said in the voice of Andy Sachs.)

This toaster, she’s chic. Hell, she’s downright sexy! I do wish there were a few more color options, hence the 4-star rating instead of 5 in the design department (what does a girl have to do to get a beige or a pistachio option, Revolution?), but other than that, no aesthetic notes.

The Functionality

• My rating: 5/5

Let’s talk about what this baby can do, shall we?

The greatest and most obvious functionality upgrade from your regular old waffle browner is its touchscreen, which enables you to choose your desired item (everything from bread to English muffins are fair game), the status of said item(choose from fresh, frozen or reheat) and your desired level of toasting: It goes from a 1 (extremely light) to a 7 (burnt to a crisp).

OK great, you might say. But does it actually toast?

It does, and it toasts well. Does it take some finesse? Yes. But I’m convinced the good people at Wired who gave this machine a sh*tty review didn’t actually use it all that long, because if they had, they would’ve discovered that both toast and bagels come out best at a “4,” while English muffins and waffles perform better at lower settings.

Just like finding your perfect glass of wine or a skincare serum that’s right for your skin, you definitely have to experiment with this machine to get your desired results. But once you’ve found your desired shade and crunch? *Chef’s kiss.*

What’s more, you don’t even have to remember your favorite settings—the machine saves your last-known toasting level for everything, so you’ll always get what you want, how you want it.

The Ease of Use

• My rating: 5/5

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The Revolution R180 Connect couldn’t be easier to use if it was a plain-old push-down toaster.

If you’re the least bit tech-savvy (a.k.a. you can handle following a series of prompts to get to the Wi-Fi screen and enter your password), the initial setup, which will enable you to set the local weather and time that display when the machine isn’t being used, will take you less than five minutes.

Once you’re ready to go, simply touch the screen to select your preferences, all of which are pretty intuitive. You’ll swipe to select the item you’re toasting, choose “fresh,” “frozen” or “reheat ” then pick your desired browning level and press start—that’s it!

Certain items, like the bagel, also have an option for if it’s “large” at the bottom.

All in all, I think it’s one of the easiest high-tech gadgets I’ve used to date.

The Value

• My rating: 3/5

Does the Revolution toaster have a steep price tag? Indeed. But consider this: How long have you had your current toaster? Do you even know when you last replaced it? Cause I definitely don’t know long I had my old one—but I’d be willing to guess it was upwards of eight years.

If you divide the cost of the stainless-steel version I have ($349.95) by eight years, that’s just $43.75 annually—a price I would gladly pay to have beautifully bronzed bagels on command.

That said, there’s no guaranteeing this baby will last a full eight years. The one gripe that I have with this company is that the warranty on the machine is limited to one year and only covers a year of repairs. While there is a lengthier protection program available, you’ll have to shell out an extra $40 to get it, which is annoying after spending $300+ for the initial item.

All of that said, I would strongly recommend the added protection.

After using my Revolution for just under one year, the glue on the right side of my touchscreen became detached, causing it to glitch. Luckily, my warranty was still valid, so customer service was easily able to get me a new one at no extra charge (the team is a dream), avoiding a bagel drought crisis (Phew!).

Without the added protection, it might not have been an option, depending on when it glitched, and I would’ve had to buy a new one or go without—something I quickly realized was no longer an option for me. The thought of going back to Spam after dining on the filet mignon of toasters? *Shudder*—what am I, a peasant? Hard pass.

Overall

• My rating: 17/20

I hate to say it, gentle readers, but I fear this toaster is a need—not a want.

Now that I’ve gotten used to having the Revolution toaster around, I truly don’t believe I could ever live without it. It would be like using Limewire after experiencing the speed and convenience of Spotify—it simply can’t be done. One toasting level and a simple push-down lever? Impossible.

Beyond that, I’d argue that it actually elevates your kitchen décor. Your kitchen counter simply won’t look the same without it gleaming from the corner.

More importantly, it’s time to officially move out of the toasting dark ages, friends—it just is. Trust me: You’ll thank me later.

Personally, I’ll be upping my warranty protection, though I would 100 percent buy another outright should it come down to it. I *might* even love this thing more than my coffee maker, which brews the liquid that gives me life daily—but don’t quote me on that.

What’s your favorite kitchen appliance? Tell me in the comments below!

Xo, Nicole

The post This Touchscreen Revolution Toaster Is the Sexiest Appliance in My Kitchen appeared first on nicolebjean.

For the last decade or so, I’ve been in a fragrance desert. Unlike the ‘90s heyday of scent that I recall from my youth, when a girl could choose from an expensive designer bottle (think Thierry Mugler’s Angel or Gucci Rush) a mid-tier scent, like Candies, BCBGirls, Britney Spears Curious, Tommy Girl or Abercrombie & Fitch (all core memories) or the cheap-yet-delectable offerings of the local Bath & Body Works, our options as of late have felt rather … limited.

These days, I can choose to smell like Ariana Grande or Billie Eilish (hard pass), show my age with some Coco Chanel or take my chances on an affordable “dupe” of the $335 Maison Francis Kurkdjian du jour. And honestly? None of them are resonating. Every time I find a fragrance that I do really, really like, it’s discontinued. (Thanks a lot, Gucci.)

So when influencer Lucy Whims, who has impeccable taste in just about everything, began to rave about Vanilla Skin, she opened up a longstanding dark cloud in my fragrance sky. I jumped at the chance to test it, along with three of Phlur’s other gourmand scents: Heavy Cream, Coconut Skin and Caramel Skin.

18 of Phlur’s best sellers later, I’m officially a brand stan. More days than not, I’m reaching for one of the top five scents below (though I occasionally mix it up with one of the others, as well).

Trust me when I say that these are the best Phlur scents worth spending every cent of your hard-earned cash on—and the ones you might be better off checking out in the Discovery ($39) or custom sampler set ($65).

The 18 Best Phlur Scents I’ve Tried

1. Vanilla Skin

Vanilla Skin is the first Phlur scent I ever tried, and it’s still my absolute favorite. (It’s also a crazy hot seller.) Unlike the BBW Warm Vanilla Sugar body mist we all remember from seventh grade, this vanilla fragrance has depth. It’s inviting and cozy-smelling, enveloping you like a warm hug without being overpowering. Still, it lingers. After a full day’s wear, I was left sniffing my shirt like a fiend because it still smelled so damn good. Needless to say, it’s become my new go-to.

2. Vanilla Nectar

If the newest addition to the Phlur lineup is the first one you try, you won’t be disappointed—this stuff is an orange creasmcicle sherbet dream. Released in June 2025, it’s the type of scent that makes your eyes roll up into the back of your head with hedonistic delight. Like all of Phlur’s mists, it wears off a little quicker than the perfumes, but trust me—it’s worth the respritz. The only downside? You’ll be sniffing your wrists with wild abandon, onlookers be d*mned.

3. Beach Skin

This was another instant favorite for me. Released just in time for summer, it fully captures the essence of what it’s like to spend a day lounging in the sand while listening to the ocean waves (or if you’re in Florida, the laughing gulls). While it does feature sandalwood and bergamot, which tend to dominate most “ocean air” candles, it also leans into other ingredients, like pink pepper, salted tiare flower, coconut milk, lily of the valley and straight musk, for an unexpected twist. Currently, it only comes in a body mist, which does wear off rather quickly, but I would be all about a heavier perfume version. And in the meantime? I’ll be alternating my mist with my Vanilla Skin.

4. Strawberry Letter

This is a complex perfume. Sure, it has the sweet strawberry smell you’d expect, but it’s also full of earthy woods, tonka bean and sugared amber base notes that make it extra special. At the slightest hint of a breeze, the unexpected layers start to shine through, reminding me that I’m wearing a really good perfume. (And if you’re anything like me, who wears it as much for myself as for others, that’s clutch.)

5. Rose Whip

Rose Whip is floral fragrance perfected. It’s like they removed all of the powdery, grandma-like notes that typically accompany flowery scents and replaced them all with a spicy-yet-soft leathery element that’s rather intoxicating, if I do say so myself. I tend to wear this one on days I’m feeling *extra* girlie.

6. Missing Person

One of the brand’s most popular scents, Missing Person is also one of the hardest to describe, as It’s not particularly spicy, floral or sweet. A blend of white musk, jasmine and orange blossom, its tagline is “if nude were a perfume,” with the brand calling it “delicate, yet addictive.” Indeed, it is both light and alluring—my only gripe is that it’s a little *too* light. An hour into wearing it, I feel like it’s already faded away. That said, If it had just a smidge more staying power, it would be a great everyday scent.

7. Soft Spot

Soft Spot is, well, soft. It’s baby powder freshness in a bottle, hold the powder. I don’t think it gives off the sultry vibe that the brand suggests, but rather a very clean, airy scent reminiscent of fresh bubbles, silk and Clairo. In other words? It’s a vibe, and a rather whimsical one at that.

8. Dragon Fruit

Here, we have a scent that equates to “exactly what I want to spritz on immediately after stepping out of the shower.” The fruitiest scent in Phlur’s roster, Dragon Fruit is bright, uplifting and reminiscent of the Herbal Essences shampoos you loved in high school, only better. And it’s bright pink! What’s not to love?

9. Mango Wood

Peach Skin may be new, but if you ask me, Mango Wood still reigns supreme when it comes to the brand’s stone pit fruit scents. The former is more nuanced, taking your nose on an olfactory journey as time goes on, but I’d really rather it stayed true to the sweet fruity smell that’s dispensed at first spray. Mango Wood does just that, giving me tropics in a bottle (yum!)—and keeping it that way.

10. Heavy Cream

“If your favorite laundry soap had a baby with a bakery”—that’s how I’d describe Heavy Cream. Heavier on the fresh scent than the gourmand notes, it definitely makes for an interesting mix. It’s also a nice detour on the confectionary fragrance front should you ever get sick of the vanilla. (As if!)

11. Moonstone

Moonstone is a nice, juicy mixture of green apple, pineapple and black currant topped off with lemon zest, mandarin orange, jasmine and geranium, with sandalwood, vanilla and amber thrown in for good measure. It’s one of the most even, balanced scents of the bunch—not too light, not too strong—and sans for its staying power, which is shorter than that of the heavier perfumes, it’s a good day-to-day scent contender.

12. Mood Ring

The second I sprayed this on myself, I thought, ‘This smells like a gummy bear.’ And generally, gummy bears smell pretty good. But as it turns out, they can also be pretty intense as a perfume. It’s kind of like the toothache you get after eating too much candy, only in scent form. It tastes great, and you enjoy it, but then, it starts to hurt, urging you to exercise caution upon future consumption.

13. Father Figure

This one is heady. The first few spritzes will make you feel like you’ve buried your nose in your boyfriend’s sweatshirt (a.k.a. heavenly). While you might be inclined to douse yourself in its comforting musk, however, I must advise against it. Like Mood Ring, this is a scent that’s best sniffed in small doses. Spritz it on too thick, and you might find yourself with an overwhelming Drakkar Noir-style headache (IYKYK)—less is more.

14. Golden Rule

File this one under “über-sultry.” One of the heaviest scents in the Phlur line, Golden Rule is bold, and rightfully so—the perfumer’s goal in creating it was to “capture the magnetic, alluring, energy of a person with confidence.” It’s a scent I probably wouldn’t have bought for myself (I was gifted all of the bottles on this list), as it’s rather potent. Still, it’s not so much that it’s over the top. All in all, it’s a strong, sexy fragrance I’m glad to have in my arsenal for special occasions.

15. Coconut Skin

If you were expecting this one to smell like suntan lotion, you’d only be half correct. Rather, it’s a twist on your standard coconut fragrance thanks to the addition of several floral notes (frangipani, tiare blossom and jasmine absolute). The problem? I actually prefer the former. I was really excited to smell like a straight-up coconut! Luckily, Beach Skin has that hint of coconut milk to satiate my needs.

16. Peach Skin

Released in mid-May, Peach Skin is one of the brand’s newer scents. While the fruit part is lovely and comes through in the first few seconds after being sprayed, it’s quickly overwhelmed by the underlying sandalwood, which gives it a woody smell that I didn’t care for. It reminded me of walking through a freshly laid pile of cedar chips. Ironically, Mango Wood, which has a similar fruit profile, was far less woody than I found this one to be, making it my preferred pick.

17. Caramel Skin

Caramel skin is ultra-rich—in fact, I’d go so far as to call it sickeningly so. As such, as much as it pains me to admit it, the scent I thought I’d love the most is one of my least favorites. It’s simply too much of a good thing, cheapening the brown sugar, caramel and vanilla notes that would otherwise be irresistible. That said, it may be just enough for fans of the Sol de Janeiro line, which I find to be too sweet but the world seems to love.

18. Vanilla Smoke

One thing about me: My favorite smell in the world is the smell of a bonfire. Maybe it’s linked to memories of growing up in Michigan, or maybe it’s just what I like, but the instant I get a whiff of smoke, I’m in heaven. Unfortunately, Vanilla Smoke did not recreate that experience for me. Something about it is extremely overpowering. I actually had to wash this one off because it disagreed with me so badly—and it’s only a body mist! To be fair, however, I saw a review that claimed it was “not very strong” at all, so maybe my nose is just overly sensitive? Can’t win ’em all. *Shrugs*

Which Phlur scent is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!

Xo, Nicole

The post I Ranked 18 of the Best Phlur Scents—and This One Reigns Supreme appeared first on nicolebjean.

Butter yellow may be the color of season, but gingham is about to be the print. (Elle said so.) The checked pattern has been creeping into my subconscious as of late in the form of rompers, capris, tops and dresses, and I thought I found the perfect gingham dress specimen in Reformation’s tomato red-and-white Sora dress ($248). But that was before Hollister gifted me with its smocked bodice mini.

At $35, not only is the Hollister version a whopping $213 cheaper than the Reformation lookalike (!), I actually like it better. It fits more snugly, it’s more comfortable and it has a few hidden *extras* that the Reformation dress doesn’t have.

Before you riot over Reformation’s highway robbery, I should mention that there’s a reason it’s so “overpriced.” The company is aiming to make 100 percent of its fabrics from recycled, regenerative or renewable materials by 2025.

This little gingham beauty, for instance, is made from 100 percent linen, which the brand loves for its renewable flax and low water footprint in comparison to cotton.

Reformation also releases small collections to avoid waste and focuses on renewable energy and water efficiency during production. Unfortunately, as The Roundup points out, all of those environmentally responsible practices translate to—you guessed it!—a bigger gouge on your wallet.

I love mother Earth and all, and this splurge looks absolutely fantastic on Taylor Swift and Emma Roberts, but truth be told, the fit has never felt completely right on me. The waist and hips are fine, but the straps, which are designed to fall from your shoulders, drape a little *too* gently—to the point where they’re just uncomfortable. I don’t have a large enough bust to keep tension on the straps, so this piece ends up just hanging uselessly in my closet, which is a real shame.

Hollister’s “save,” by contrast, fits like a glove. The smocked bodice means the top actually stays up (even without the removable straps), and the “skirt” has built-in shorts that are supremely comfortable.

And honestly, when you style them the same (I added my Staud palm bag for a pop of contrast), you can barely tell the difference between the two, despite the contrasting necklines.

The Hollister one even has pockets, giving it another little edge over the Reformation pick.

Though I do wish the Hollister version, which is made from a blend of polyester and elastane (neither of which are particularly kind to the environment) was at least recycled polyester and would be willing to pay a bit more for the sustainable upgrade, its pros means I’ll actually wear it on repeat. That’s a lot more than I can say for the Reformation dress—and the most environmentally friendly approach of all is rooted in wearing things you already own.

As for the splurge? I’ll be Poshmarking it to give it a new life somewhere where it will actually be appreciated. Win-win?

Which dress is your favorite? Tell me in the comments below!

Xo, Nicole

The post This $35 Hollister Gingham Dress Looks Just Like My $248 Reformation One—and I Actually Like It Better appeared first on nicolebjean.

Finding the perfect tee should be easy: It’s not like there are special design elements involved. I don’t need draping, darting or structural sleeves for something I’m just planning to throw on under a cardigan. We’re not talking about intricate silks or cashmeres on the fabric front, either: just your plain jane, run-of-the-mill cotton tee. You know, the one that looks so effortlessly cool on every influencer and celebrity known to man?

And yet, when they inevitably find their way into my closet, they’re schlubby, ill-fitting and rough, making them a mere layering necessity than a choice piece.

But then I found it: The holy grail of basics. The most perfect, best-fitting, ultra-comfortable, chic little T-shirt on the planet (and no, it’s not the $80 James Perse number Jen Aniston reportedly swears by).

The Perfect Tee

LA Made Crew Neck Tee

The LA Made Classic Stripes Crew Neck caught my eye for its striped pattern—I’m like a moth to a flame when it comes to stripes.

At $24, I didn’t have particularly high expectations—I figured it would be like every other tee in my collection. But when I tell you that I put this thing on and gasped!

For starters, I’m not sure what magic they put into this cotton to made it softer and smoother than any other cotton I’ve ever felt in my life, but it literally feels like wearing butter. It’s hands down the best-feeling shirt in my closet.

Then, there’s the fit. Gone are any of the weird body gaps that typically come with a regular tee. This one fits like a glove in my normal XS size. It’s form-fitting, but I can still breathe in it, and it’s long enough to cover the button on my jeans (a personal pet peeve of mine when it comes to short shirts).

Other Tees I’ve Tried

Other tees I’ve tried that this one mops the floor with?

• Madewell’s Whisper Tee: No matter what review site tries to sell you on this being the best of the best when it comes to tees, I strongly beg to differ. While I didn’t have the issue of it being ultra see-through, like some reviewers have complained about (possible because I have no boobs), it has an awkward fit (the XS hangs at the sides) and it’s not particularly soft.
  
• Goldie Organic Boy Tee ($85): This white tee is the one I’ve been wearing as my staple since it was gifted to me in 2023 (see here). And while it was okay, it didn’t blow me away. The cut is a bit too short and the feel is nothing to write home about (though I will say it holds up quite well in the wash!). But honestly? Considering that it retails for $85, this thing should be magic, and I just don’t believe that It is.
  
• Pumiey ($19) : Out of desperation, I took an influencer recommendation for this Amazon brand (a decision I’m often disappointed with). Unsurprisingly, this $19 top was just meh: It’s made with a spandex-like polyamide fabric that’s a bit too confining (I feel like I’m being birthed shoving my head through the hole) and it feels cheap to the touch, especially when compared to the LA Made—which I got on sale for $5 more dollars.

As of this moment, I’ll be shoving all of the tees above straight to the back of my closet in favor of my new holy grail. Please excuse me while I go buy it in every single color…

What’s your go-to T-shirt brand? Tell me in the comments below

Xo, Nicole

The post I Just Found *the* Perfect Tee—and It’s the Holy Grail of Basics appeared first on nicolebjean.

Quick question: When’s the last time you ate a jelly bean? Had you asked me prior to yesterday, I honestly couldn’t have given you an answer—it’s been *that* long. As it turns out, the sweet treat has come quite a long way since my Easter basket years. Six limited-edition Brach’s jelly bean flavors were released earlier this month as part of the brand’s Easter Brunch collection, and they’re unlike anything you’ve ever tasted.

Forget grape, lemon and lime—this year, the jelly bean gods have blessed us with saccharine delights such as Blueberry Maple Pancake, Mimosa and Caramel Cold Brew—yes, friends, there’s a jelly bean that tastes like the best steeped iced coffee you’ve ever had.

While they’re not quite as wild as 2022’s Late Night Taco Truck offerings (it was real, look it up), they still provide quite the rollercoaster ride for your taste buds.

The company sent me a bag, so I tried all six of the new for 2024 flavors, and let’s just say, I have some *thoughts.* Watch the video above and keep reading to find out what each one really tastes like.

1. Blueberry Maple Pancake

• Flavor Rating: 7/10

I expected this to taste like breakfast. Instead, I got an instant sugar rush with a hint of cotton candy. Like the experimental gum that turned Violet Beauregarde into a blueberry in Willy Wonka’s factory, however, the taste changed as I chewed, and the maple syrup flavor began to creep in. All in all, I’d say this is good in moderation. It’s too sweet to eat more than a few, but I didn’t dislike it.

2. Chocolate Glazed Donut

• Flavor Rating: 5/10

This one had my taste buds all kinds of confused. I got very little chocolate from it—more of a butterscotch flavor that was punctuated by notes of bubblegum at the end. If I tried really hard, I could maybe concede to a touch of Dunkin’s chocolate frosting. Mixed with butterscotch. It was … OK, but there are (much) better beans in the bunch.

3. Caramel Cold Brew

• Flavor Rating: 10/10

Got a java addiction? Prepare to have your world rocked. This really does taste like coffee! I’m not talking about a wimpy cup of gas station brew, either: This tastes like strong coffee, hold the bitterness. It’s kind of like eating a coffee bean or taking a shot of cold brew for the most delicious pick-me-up. While my boyfriend wasn’t as keen on these, those with an appreciation for a bold cup of joe will dig the flavor as well as the perceived caffeine boost. It’s a win-win!

4. Cinnamon Roll

• Flavor Rating: 3/10

Cinnamon Roll is the only jelly bean in the Easter Brunch collection I found to be truly inedible. Not because it’s bad, per se, but because the cinnamon is of the spicy variety—think Big Red chewing gum or a Fireball shot. Having made myself deathly ill drinking a pint of Hot Damn in my youth (don’t ask), spicy cinnamon is not exactly a flavor profile I mesh with—I would have preferred a softer, more coffee-ready cinnamon. For those who can stomach it, however, it’s not so bad—in fact, my boyfriend said this one was great!

5. Mimosa

• Flavor Rating: 9/10

It was no surprise to me that I liked Mimosa—I adore them in real life, too. The bean version isn’t quite so fizzy—it definitely could’ve done with a little tongue sparkle—but the orange juice overtones were spot on. Maybe because of its citric flavor, it’s not as sweet as some of the others, but for me, that was a bonus, making it far easier for my typically sugar-starved body to digest. A real standout, if I do say so!

6. Berry Smoothie

• Flavor Rating: 8/10

If you’re a fan of the tried-and-true, you’re bound to enjoy Berry Smoothie: It tastes the most to me like your classic, run-of-the-mill jelly bean. It’s sweet, it’s fruity, and true to its name, there are strong notes of berry. Its definitely less exciting than the others (berry isn’t exactly a core shaker to the palette), but it also just might be the one I’d eat the most of in a row, hence its solid flavor rating.

The Final Verdict

If you ask me, the Brach’s Easter Brunch jelly beans are worth it for the Caramel Cold Brew flavor alone. I’d buy the entire bag just for a handful! Since I also enjoyed Mimosa, Berry Smoothie and Blueberry Maple Pancake, however, I think they offer a pretty good bang for your buck. They’re only here for a limited time, so I’d definitely advise stocking up—especially since you can get two 10-ounce bags for less than $20 if you snag them on Amazon, with Prime delivery well ahead of Easter Sunday.

Now. If you’ll excuse me, I’ll just be over here, chewing through my own Easter basket…

Have you tried the Brach’s Easter Brunch collection? What’s your favorite flavor? Tell me in the comments below!

Xo, Nicole

The post PSA: A Caramel Cold Brew Jelly Bean Exists and It *Actually* Tastes Like Coffee appeared first on nicolebjean.