If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I’m incredibly picky about beauty products, and especially about eye products.
I don’t want something that just feels nice for five minutes—I want something that actually works! And after testing a lot of under-eye patches over the years, I can honestly say the YSE Beauty Overachiever Eye Brightener Masks are by far the best I’ve tried.
I’ve been using them for over a year now, and they’ve earned a permanent spot in my routine.
Quick Side Note: The brand was founded by model and actress Molly Sims (remember her from Las Vegas?!), which honestly makes sense once you try the products. She is a model, actress, and mom, and the products feel very “real life meets luxury”—effective, easy to use, and designed for busy schedules rather than complicated routines.
If you struggle with puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines around your eyes, these undereye masks are a game changer.
What makes them different is the no-slip hydrogel design. They actually stay in place, which means you can wear them while making coffee, answering emails, or getting ready — no lying down required.
After using them consistently, I’ve noticed:
Brighter-looking under eyes
Less puffiness in the morning
Smoother fine lines
A refreshed, awake look without makeup
They have an instant cooling effect that feels amazing, especially on busy mornings or after travel.
These patches are packed with ingredients that actually support the delicate under-eye area:
Vitamin C to brighten
Peptides to support firmness
Allantoin to calm and soothe
The combination gives both immediate results and longer-term improvement when used regularly.
I love that they feel luxe but still practical — small, powerful, and easy to use anytime.
Made for Real Life (Not Just Spa Days)
One of my biggest frustrations with eye patches is when they slide down your face. These don’t.
The hydrogel grips the skin comfortably so you can move around while wearing them. I’ve used them while packing, traveling, and even walking around the house — they stay put.
Six pairs come in each box, and honestly, I always wish I had more on hand.
My Sister’s Favorite: Last Call Retinol Serum
While the eye masks are my personal go-to, my sister is completely obsessed with their Last Call Retinol Serum.
She’s tried a lot of retinol formulas (usually from Target or wherever she is shopping), but this is the one she keeps reordering because it gives results without irritation, which is rare.
It combines retinol with niacinamide and omega fatty acids to help improve texture, smooth fine lines, and brighten skin while staying gentle enough for daily use.
If you’ve been nervous about retinol or have sensitive skin, this serum is a great place to start.
Who These Products Are Best For
You’ll love these if you:
Want brighter, more refreshed-looking eyes
Deal with puffiness or dark circles
Want a retinol that’s effective but gentle
Prefer skincare that fits into a busy lifestyle
Love products that actually stay put while you wear them
If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I’m incredibly picky about beauty products, and especially about eye products.
I don’t want something that just feels nice for five minutes—I want something that actually works! And after testing a lot of under-eye patches over the years, I can honestly say the YSE Beauty Overachiever Eye Brightener Masks are by far the best I’ve tried.
I’ve been using them for over a year now, and they’ve earned a permanent spot in my routine.
Quick Side Note: The brand was founded by model and actress Molly Sims (remember her from Las Vegas?!), which honestly makes sense once you try the products. She is a model, actress, and mom, and the products feel very “real life meets luxury”—effective, easy to use, and designed for busy schedules rather than complicated routines.
If you struggle with puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines around your eyes, these undereye masks are a game changer.
What makes them different is the no-slip hydrogel design. They actually stay in place, which means you can wear them while making coffee, answering emails, or getting ready — no lying down required.
After using them consistently, I’ve noticed:
Brighter-looking under eyes
Less puffiness in the morning
Smoother fine lines
A refreshed, awake look without makeup
They have an instant cooling effect that feels amazing, especially on busy mornings or after travel.
These patches are packed with ingredients that actually support the delicate under-eye area:
Vitamin C to brighten
Peptides to support firmness
Allantoin to calm and soothe
The combination gives both immediate results and longer-term improvement when used regularly.
I love that they feel luxe but still practical — small, powerful, and easy to use anytime.
Made for Real Life (Not Just Spa Days)
One of my biggest frustrations with eye patches is when they slide down your face. These don’t.
The hydrogel grips the skin comfortably so you can move around while wearing them. I’ve used them while packing, traveling, and even walking around the house — they stay put.
Six pairs come in each box, and honestly, I always wish I had more on hand.
My Sister’s Favorite: Last Call Retinol Serum
While the eye masks are my personal go-to, my sister is completely obsessed with their Last Call Retinol Serum.
She’s tried a lot of retinol formulas (usually from Target or wherever she is shopping), but this is the one she keeps reordering because it gives results without irritation, which is rare.
It combines retinol with niacinamide and omega fatty acids to help improve texture, smooth fine lines, and brighten skin while staying gentle enough for daily use.
If you’ve been nervous about retinol or have sensitive skin, this serum is a great place to start.
Who These Products Are Best For
You’ll love these if you:
Want brighter, more refreshed-looking eyes
Deal with puffiness or dark circles
Want a retinol that’s effective but gentle
Prefer skincare that fits into a busy lifestyle
Love products that actually stay put while you wear them
If you’ve ever read this blog, then you know I’m always paying attention to emerging science—especially when it comes to longevity, skin health, and what actually moves the needle long term.
Because here’s the truth: great skin isn’t just about hydration or surface-level glow. It’s about what’s happening at the cellular level, which is what originally drew me to OneSkin skincare. Their approach is less about trends and more about addressing why skin ages in the first place.
I’m always testing new serums, but I’m careful about what earns a permanent spot in my routine.
OneSkin’s lightweight peptide serum and moisturizer in one quickly became a favorite. It layers beautifully, absorbs fast, and feels like skincare designed for results rather than hype.
After a few weeks of consistent use, I noticed:
Diminished fine lines
Smoother texture
Skin that feels firmer and more resilient
It’s not a dramatic overnight change — it’s that steady improvement where your skin just starts looking healthier overall.
The OneSkin Smooth & Firm Face Moisturizer (My Hero Product)
This product is essentially a serum and lightweight moisturizer in one, powered by the OS-01 Peptide. I love how streamlined it makes my routine. I use it in the morning after vitamin C and before sunscreen, and it layers perfectly under makeup.
After a few weeks, I definitely noticed a healthy glow and the lines around my eyes were reduced.
What I love:
Lightweight but hydrating
Smooth, elegant texture
Works well for face and neck
Supports firmness without irritation
It’s one of those products that makes your skin feel stronger over time instead of just temporarily hydrated.
What Makes OneSkin Different
Most anti-aging skincare focuses on surface-level fixes. OneSkin takes a more advanced approach by addressing cellular senescence—a process where aging cells stop functioning properly but don’t go away.
These dysfunctional cells (often called “zombie cells”) release inflammatory signals that can accelerate aging in surrounding tissue.
As they build up, they contribute to:
Increased inflammation
Reduced immune function in skin
Faster breakdown of collagen and elasticity
OneSkin’s research focuses on helping skin behave more like younger skin at the cellular level, which is a completely different philosophy compared to traditional anti-aging products.
Understanding the Science Behind OneSkin
As we age, skin goes through what scientists call the hallmarks of aging, including:
Cellular senescence
Mitochondrial dysfunction
Loss of proteostasis
Decreased collagen and elastin production
Thinning skin and reduced barrier strength
Environmental stressors like sun exposure, pollution, and stress can accelerate these changes.
What I appreciate most is that OneSkin’s formulas are built to support long-term skin health, not just to chase temporary results.
How I Use OneSkin in My Routine
Morning routine:
Vitamin C serum
OneSkin Smooth & Firm Face Moisturizer
Sunscreen
That’s it. It keeps my routine simple while still feeling science-forward.
Who OneSkin Is Best For
You’ll love OneSkin if you:
Care about longevity-focused skincare
Want smoother, firmer-looking skin
Prefer lightweight formulas
Like science-backed ingredients (science nerds LOVE this stuff)
Want results without irritation
It’s especially great if you’re starting to notice fine lines, texture changes, or loss of elasticity.
If you’re looking for a lightweight, effective serum-moisturizer that supports your skin long term, OneSkin Face is absolutely worth trying!
OneSkin Scalp Serum for Hair Growth
I also want to mention that OneSkin also offers a scalp serum for hair growth powered by their OS-01 Peptide, designed to help reduce shedding and support a healthier hair growth cycle at the root.
I haven’t personally tried this one yet, but if I ever needed targeted support for scalp health or thinning hair, this would be the first formula I’d reach for because of the science behind it. The goal isn’t just cosmetic volume; it’s improving the scalp environment to encourage thicker, fuller, denser hair over time.
Their early research is compelling, including reported improvements in hair density with consistent use, and the formula is dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free, and suitable for sensitive skin. If you’re curious about a longevity-focused approach to hair care, you can check it out here.
This super simple poke sauce makes putting together a homemade poke bowl EASY. You only need seven ingredients and a couple of minutes to make this super fresh and flavorful marinade for poke.
Poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish of raw fish marinated in a savory soy based sauce. You can eat poke on its own, much like sashimi or you can serve it over rice with other vegetables or ingredients like edamame or seaweed for a poke bowl. As with any simple dish the quality of ingredients matter so find the best, freshest fish you can when making poke.
Mince the garlic and finely grate the ginger after peeling. I like mincing the garlic with a knife but if you want it even smaller to it dissolves more into the sauce use the smallest holes on a box grater or a zester.
In a small mixing bowl combine all ingredients and stir to combine. Use immediately. You can easily double this recipe if you are planning to marinate more than one pound of fish.
Notes and Substitutions
You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or tamari, espeically if you are avoiding gluten.
Rice vinegar is best but you could also use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if that’s what you have on hand.
Sriracha is great for adding a little heat but a good substitute is 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
Fresh garlic and ginger is best but if you find buying it only for this recipe (so a very small amount) a problem you can use 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder and powdered ginger instead.
If you want to add sweetness include 1/2 teaspoon of honey or brown sugar.
Poke sauce is most often used on raw fish like tuna, salmon or yellow tail for poke bowls. You could also use this soy based savory sauce on shrimp or tofu.
How long do you marinate fish in poke sauce?
Marinate the raw fish in the poke sauce for 20 minutes to two hours for best flavor and texture. You should marinate in a sealed or covered container in the refrigerator.
Mince the garlic and finely grate the ginger after peeling.
I like mincing the garlic with a knife but if you want it even smaller to it dissolves more into the sauce use the smallest holes on a box grater or a zester.
In a small mixing bowl combine all ingredients and stir to combine. Use immediately.
You can easily double this recipe if you are planning to marinate more than one pound of fish.
Notes
You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or tamari, espeically if you are avoiding gluten.
Rice vinegar is best but you could also use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if that’s what you have on hand.
Sriracha is great for adding a little heat but a good substitute is 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
Fresh garlic and ginger is best but if you find buying it only for this recipe (so a very small amount) a problem you can use 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder and powdered ginger instead.
If you want to add sweetness include 1/2 teaspoon of honey or brown sugar.
Merrimac Ventures continues its legacy of shaping Fort Lauderdale’s most dynamic neighborhoods with Bungalow East, an exclusive luxury condominium with a collection of 34 residences in the heart of North Beach Village, a district the Motwani family has carefully transformed into one of the city’s most sought-after lifestyle destinations.
Located at 530 North Birch Road, just steps from the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, Bungalow East introduces a residential experience that feels both intimate and elevated. Contemporary architecture, light-filled interiors, and a curated selection of amenities come together to create a refined retreat that reflects the relaxed sophistication of its surroundings. The scale of the building was intentionally designed to complement the walkable character of the neighborhood, placing residents within moments of chef-driven restaurants, charming cafés, boutique hotels, and the vibrant energy that defines this coastal enclave.
For decades, the Motwani family has played a defining role in the evolution of North Beach Village, reimagining it into a lively and pedestrian-friendly destination known for its culinary scene, distinctive hospitality concepts, and unmistakable sense of place. Their vision has shaped a neighborhood that feels authentic yet polished, where the rhythm of beachside living meets a cosmopolitan social atmosphere.
Bungalow East represents the next chapter in that story. Created in response to the growing desire for smaller-scale luxury near the shoreline, the project offers a rare opportunity to live in one of Fort Lauderdale’s most character-rich neighborhoods. It is a residence defined not only by design and location, but by a lifestyle that is effortlessly connected to the best of North Beach Village.
Residences are starting at $2 million.
Bungalow East is designed by Swedroe Architecture with interiors imagined by Adriana Hoyos Design Studio. The luxury condominium is slated to break ground later this year.
For more information about Bungalow East, including pre-construction sales opportunities, please contact info@owpbrokers.com or 954-737-6816, or visit the sales gallery at 701 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Suite CU-1, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304.
Oh the middle school years. You hear such intimidating things about these parenting during these years and I get why. There is something about this season that feels… tender.
Not in the soft baby-cheeks-and-bedtime-books way. Not in the sticky-fingers-and-playdates way. But in a stretching, shifting, becoming kind of way.
Parenting middle schoolers is different. And what’s surprised me most is how different it is not just from the early years — but how different it is for each of my own children.
That has been one of the biggest lessons for me lately.
The Season of Parenting Middle Schoolers
It’s So Different for Each Child
I naively assumed that once I “figured out” middle school with one, I’d have it down.
Ha.
One needs reassurance before trying something new. One needs space to process and then quietly circles back with thoughtful questions. One thrives with structure and clear expectations. One blooms when given flexibility and ownership.
It has reminded me (again) that parenting is less about mastering a phase and more about staying curious about the child in front of you.
.
They Need Me More… But Differently
In some ways, they need me more than they did in elementary school.
But not for hovering. Not for fixing. Not for orchestrating every detail.
They need me nearby. Available. Calm.
They need gentle recommendations when a new challenge pops up — navigating friendships, managing time, handling disappointment, figuring out who they are becoming.
Sometimes it’s just a well-timed, “Have you thought about…?” Or, “What do you think would happen if…?”
Less directing. More guiding.
I’m learning to feel out the times they want and need me close and times they’d prefer more of an independent attempt first. And I’m learning that restraint — not rushing in to solve — is often the harder, but better, choice.
They Are Watching More Than Ever
This part has me doing a lot of evaluation of my own habits and daily structure.
I feel like I need (and genuinely want) to be more plugged in to our day-to-day life right now. Because they notice. They are watching how I spend my time.
Not in an obvious, critical way. But in a quiet, unconscious mirroring way.
If I prioritize moving my body, they want to move theirs. If I step outside for fresh air, they follow. If I find the positive, they do, too. If I read, they curl up with a book. If I sit and scroll… well, they see that as well.
It’s a reminder that the rhythms I create in our home matter more than any lecture I could give.
.
Watching Confidence Grow (and Wobble)
There are moments that make my heart swell.
And moments that make it ache.
It’s hard to watch them navigate situations where they aren’t instantly confident. I see how wonderful they are — their humor, kindness, talent, creativity — and I want the world to see it too. I want them to walk into every room fully aware of how absolutely amazing they are.
But confidence doesn’t grow because I tell them they are.
It grows when they try. When they risk. When they stumble. When they recover.
Sometimes that means I sit back and let them feel awkward. Or unsure. Or disappointed.
That part is not easy.
But I’m realizing that my job isn’t always to clear the path — it’s sometimes just to walk alongside them as they learn to navigate it themselves. As a fixer, that can be hard for me.
The Emotional Swings
Whew.
There can be big emotional swings in this stage and again, it surprises me how the degree of it all can be so very different for each child.
Big joy. Big frustration. Big tears. Big laughter.
Sometimes all in the same afternoon.
I’ve learned not to overreact to the highs or the lows. Feelings move through quickly if I don’t panic and try to control them.
What they often need is steadiness. A soft place to land. Someone who doesn’t take the mood personally.
And when the clouds pass? They are so much fun.
Truly.
They are witty and insightful and capable of conversations that surprise me. They can debate ideas, share opinions, and bring up perspectives I hadn’t considered. We laugh deeply and we connect in new ways.
It feels like getting a little flashes of the adults they are slowly on their way to becoming and I’m so humbled and grateful to get to be their mom through this season.
Am I Teaching Them Enough?
This question sneaks in more than I expected.
Am I teaching them enough academically? Are we covering what we need to cover? Are they prepared?
But beyond school —
Am I teaching them enough about life skills? About managing money? About cooking? About relationships? About the world beyond?
The responsibility can feel heavy if I let it.
But then I remind myself: learning is not a checklist. It’s a rhythm. It’s layered. It’s ongoing. It’s modeled just as much as it’s taught. And it doesn’t have an end date.
And maybe the most important things they’re learning right now are less about facts and more about formation.
How to think. How to respond. How to regulate. How to recover. How to be kind. How to work hard. How to try again.
This Season Feels Sacred
Parenting middle schoolers feels like standing in the in-between.
They are not little. They are not grown. They still reach for us — but differently. (Well, I have one that still reaches for me the same and wants constant snuggles and I’ll soak that up for as long as I can!)
It’s a season that asks for presence, guidance, and modeling over control or perfection.
It stretches me in the best ways. And even with the emotional swings, the questions, and the moments of doubt — I genuinely love it. I am so grateful for this season.
If you’re in this phase too, I’d love to know: what has surprised you most about parenting middle schoolers?
Oh the middle school years. You hear such intimidating things about these parenting during these years and I get why. There is something about this season that feels… tender.
Not in the soft baby-cheeks-and-bedtime-books way. Not in the sticky-fingers-and-playdates way. But in a stretching, shifting, becoming kind of way.
Parenting middle schoolers is different. And what’s surprised me most is how different it is not just from the early years — but how different it is for each of my own children.
That has been one of the biggest lessons for me lately.
The Season of Parenting Middle Schoolers
It’s So Different for Each Child
I naively assumed that once I “figured out” middle school with one, I’d have it down.
Ha.
One needs reassurance before trying something new. One needs space to process and then quietly circles back with thoughtful questions. One thrives with structure and clear expectations. One blooms when given flexibility and ownership.
It has reminded me (again) that parenting is less about mastering a phase and more about staying curious about the child in front of you.
.
They Need Me More… But Differently
In some ways, they need me more than they did in elementary school.
But not for hovering. Not for fixing. Not for orchestrating every detail.
They need me nearby. Available. Calm.
They need gentle recommendations when a new challenge pops up — navigating friendships, managing time, handling disappointment, figuring out who they are becoming.
Sometimes it’s just a well-timed, “Have you thought about…?” Or, “What do you think would happen if…?”
Less directing. More guiding.
I’m learning to feel out the times they want and need me close and times they’d prefer more of an independent attempt first. And I’m learning that restraint — not rushing in to solve — is often the harder, but better, choice.
They Are Watching More Than Ever
This part has me doing a lot of evaluation of my own habits and daily structure.
I feel like I need (and genuinely want) to be more plugged in to our day-to-day life right now. Because they notice. They are watching how I spend my time.
Not in an obvious, critical way. But in a quiet, unconscious mirroring way.
If I prioritize moving my body, they want to move theirs. If I step outside for fresh air, they follow. If I find the positive, they do, too. If I read, they curl up with a book. If I sit and scroll… well, they see that as well.
It’s a reminder that the rhythms I create in our home matter more than any lecture I could give.
.
Watching Confidence Grow (and Wobble)
There are moments that make my heart swell.
And moments that make it ache.
It’s hard to watch them navigate situations where they aren’t instantly confident. I see how wonderful they are — their humor, kindness, talent, creativity — and I want the world to see it too. I want them to walk into every room fully aware of how absolutely amazing they are.
But confidence doesn’t grow because I tell them they are.
It grows when they try. When they risk. When they stumble. When they recover.
Sometimes that means I sit back and let them feel awkward. Or unsure. Or disappointed.
That part is not easy.
But I’m realizing that my job isn’t always to clear the path — it’s sometimes just to walk alongside them as they learn to navigate it themselves. As a fixer, that can be hard for me.
The Emotional Swings
Whew.
There can be big emotional swings in this stage and again, it surprises me how the degree of it all can be so very different for each child.
Big joy. Big frustration. Big tears. Big laughter.
Sometimes all in the same afternoon.
I’ve learned not to overreact to the highs or the lows. Feelings move through quickly if I don’t panic and try to control them.
What they often need is steadiness. A soft place to land. Someone who doesn’t take the mood personally.
And when the clouds pass? They are so much fun.
Truly.
They are witty and insightful and capable of conversations that surprise me. They can debate ideas, share opinions, and bring up perspectives I hadn’t considered. We laugh deeply and we connect in new ways.
It feels like getting a little flashes of the adults they are slowly on their way to becoming and I’m so humbled and grateful to get to be their mom through this season.
Am I Teaching Them Enough?
This question sneaks in more than I expected.
Am I teaching them enough academically? Are we covering what we need to cover? Are they prepared?
But beyond school —
Am I teaching them enough about life skills? About managing money? About cooking? About relationships? About the world beyond?
The responsibility can feel heavy if I let it.
But then I remind myself: learning is not a checklist. It’s a rhythm. It’s layered. It’s ongoing. It’s modeled just as much as it’s taught. And it doesn’t have an end date.
And maybe the most important things they’re learning right now are less about facts and more about formation.
How to think. How to respond. How to regulate. How to recover. How to be kind. How to work hard. How to try again.
This Season Feels Sacred
Parenting middle schoolers feels like standing in the in-between.
They are not little. They are not grown. They still reach for us — but differently. (Well, I have one that still reaches for me the same and wants constant snuggles and I’ll soak that up for as long as I can!)
It’s a season that asks for presence, guidance, and modeling over control or perfection.
It stretches me in the best ways. And even with the emotional swings, the questions, and the moments of doubt — I genuinely love it. I am so grateful for this season.
If you’re in this phase too, I’d love to know: what has surprised you most about parenting middle schoolers?
Miami Concours returned to the Miami Design District February 13–15 for its ninth edition, once again transforming the architecturally striking neighborhood into a three-day celebration of automotive artistry and cultural cachet. Produced by Hxecute and co-owned by The Concours Group, duPont REGISTRY and the Miami Design District, the event brought together collectors, designers, and tastemakers to experience a curated lineup of significant post-war automobiles and cutting-edge hypercars—positioning the automobile as both engineering feat and design object.
This year’s defining moments included the U.S. customer debut of the Koenigsegg CC850, the 20th anniversary of the Ferrari P4/5, and a rare presentation of Jim Glickenhaus’s prototype collection. Founder Christian von Koenigsegg was formally honored for his visionary contributions to modern automotive innovation, underscoring the event’s global relevance.
The weekend unfolded through immersive programming, from Drive-In Movie Night and a Polestar Ride & Drive activation to the signature Red-Carpet Showcase and VIP experience presented by The Moore Miami. With support from partners including Lotus, Pagani, Lamborghini of Miami and Moët Hennessy, Miami Concours continues to evolve beyond a traditional car show into a refined cultural platform where design, luxury, and performance converge.
Moving to a new place is exciting, but getting there can feel overwhelming when clutter piles up fast. Clearing out what no longer fits improves the flow of moving day more than most realize. Less clutter means fewer decisions weighed under boxes. A quieter space waits ahead if sorting happens early enough. A method begins to emerge when sorting items into keep, donate, or discard piles. Moving becomes less stressful when boxes are labeled in advance. The key lies in tackling spaces step by step instead of rushing through them.
Moving Strategy: Planning Your Declutter and Move
Beginning to sort things out? A clear move plan makes sense first. Getting ahead means avoiding the rush of confusion that comes with shifting places. Picture where you want to be, then move step by step instead of cramming it all at once.
Begin sooner than you might think; four to six weeks before your move works best. Having extra weeks around makes everything calmer and smoother. As you sketch out your timeline, consider booking a trusted moving company early so the logistics are locked in while you focus on organizing. Instead of tackling everything at once, start with just one room.
That way, it breaks down into steps that feel doable without overload. Pick a moment every day or week to zoom in on exactly where you are. Work toward wrapping up just one area before shifting attention elsewhere. Slow steps add up without rushing past your limits.
Start putting things away by grouping them: keep, give away, or throw out. When something sits around unused for too long, or just doesn’t fit anymore, let it go. Stick with what matters or brings value, then place a small pile near the door for must-haves once you reach your destination.
Room-by-Room Decluttering Guide
1
Living Room
Furniture comes and goes, yet the living room usually holds steady as a central spot in the house, where tech hums, rugs anchor, and things sit. Look around without rushing; notice which chairs, sofas, or stands barely get touched anymore. Space changes when life does. Now might be the time to release what once fit but now feels off, even if it is still working well. If something you own stops working, consider giving it away or selling it.
Take a moment with your gadgets and fun stuff. When there are faded discs, unused consoles, or outdated devices just sitting around, start separating them. It makes sense to clear the clutter now rather than drag it out later without purpose.
Look closely at how things sit on shelves or tables. Decorations often take up too much space. Think about which objects make the room feel alive. If something no longer sparks joy, put it aside. Keep what fits the space without clutter. What stays should mean something to you.
Selling furniture or decor you no longer need? Facebook Marketplace is one of the easiest ways to move items quickly and put a little cash back in your pocket before the move.
2
Kitchen
Often, the kitchen holds more stuff than expected: machines, tools, cans, boxes. Take a moment to check what’s on the counters and in the cabinets. Is that blender still plugged in, but never touched since the holiday season last year? If appliances aren’t working well, leaving them behind might be for the best; there’s no need to move old or broken items into your next place.
Start by checking what’s left in the pantry and inside the fridge. Get rid of anything past its expiration date, including canned goods if they’re past their best-by date. You can slip leftover condiments or nearly empty spice jars into a donation pile instead of packing them. Clearing out those small items helps keep moving chaos light on your hands.
Look inside your cabinets, then check the drawers, too. The same tools might be duplicated. When extra items are sitting around, unused since last season, consider donating them. Someone nearby could make good use of those pots, spatulas, or kitchen scrapers.
3
Bedrooms
A place to unwind might live inside your bedroom, yet mess can build quietly. Begin by sorting through what hangs in the closet or stacks in drawers. When something has remained untouched for 12 months or shrunk beyond recognition, let it go. Give away what still has value.
Discard whatever serves no purpose now. Picture yourself later — what shoes will fit, what jacket feels right. Skip storing garments you’ve never worn. Trust your gut when picking outfits for next spring.
Look at what covers your bed first. When old or frayed bedding sits around, get rid of it. Packing extra things you never reach for wastes space. Anything past its prime has no place on the move.
Look around your bedroom and notice the furniture. Big pieces that are cracked or out of place can slow things down. Selling them might clear space fast. Donating instead brings new purpose to items piling up. A room full of extras feels tighter when nothing fits right.
Excited to set up your new bedroom properly? Our master bedroom makeover guide is a great place to start planning your fresh space.
4
Bathrooms
A single room does not need much, yet things pile up fast, especially toothpaste, shampoo, and bottles of cream. Start by checking every tube, jar, or bottle in the sink area. Get rid of anything stale or nearly gone, whether it is soap, conditioner, or eyeliner. There is no need to carry what might not be used.
Check what’s in your closet. Towels and bedding might be taking up space you could use. If there’s extra stuff gathering dust, think about sending it off to someone who could make better use of it. The same applies to household cleaners: keep only the ones you actually reach for.
Finish by peering into your medicine cabinet. Look for pills past their expiration dates or stuff you never get around to using. Once found, dispose of them properly while gathering everything else still in the bathroom.
5
Home Office or Study
When people do their jobs at home, desks tend to pile up fast, with notes, bills, and old receipts stacking high. Start by going through every stack of paper. Tear up anything outdated you no longer need; keep only what matters or might come in useful later. Saving effort and room when shifting places becomes easier this way.
Look at your electronics and office supplies, too. Outdated gadgets, such as old printers or unused office items, should be recycled or given away. Share books or references you rarely open with someone who will actually use them.
Clean out clutter from your desk drawers last. Store only what actually helps you get through each day.
Out in the garage or back room, things often pile up: leftover gear, worn-out supplies, dusty equipment nobody touches. Start peeling things apart slowly, like sorting a messy drawer. When something sits untouched or falls apart, it no longer has a place here. Best to move it out without waiting. Nothing should move unless you truly need it later.
Take a look at your athletic gear. If anything sits unused or feels pointless now, consider giving it away or putting it online. Holiday ornaments that no longer fit your style? The same rule applies. Items that bring little value have no reason to travel with you into a fresh space.
Once you’ve settled in, a seasonal reset pairs perfectly with our spring cleaning tips to keep your new space fresh from day one.
Final Tips for a Smooth Move
After decluttering every room, turn attention toward getting ready for moving day. Start putting away items you do not use often — seasonal items, spare dishes, decorations, and so on. While storing these goods, note where they go later; write down both the room names and what’s inside each container. Starting early helps since moving day comes fast.
When you can, bring people along; it eases things. Friends, relatives, or hired movers might fill that role well. Whatever team you choose, keeping track of steps helps avoid hiccups later. Start by writing down everything you need to bring. Check each item as you gather it. This way, nothing slips through cracks. When everything is listed, you’ll see exactly what remains undone. Finish those tasks just in time. Avoid rushing only at the very end.
Starting to sort things out ahead of the move might feel like too much work, yet it pays off in the end. A bit of thought upfront makes shifting smoother and gives you a clean start somewhere else.
As a mom to two littles, finding a perfect swimsuit can feel like a never-ending quest. Of course, I want to look cute at the pool, but I need my swimsuit to be functional for swimming and chasing little, too. And at 41 years old, I appreciate decent bottom coverage, don’t want too much cleavage, and want fabric that doesn’t show my c-section scar, so my list of swimsuit must-haves is decently long.
One of the swimsuit brands I have loved over the last four years is Left on Friday. They make swimwear that feels more like activewear than bathing suits. Their styles are flattering and fitted with great compression, and you can actually run around and swim in them all day. They make a bunch of styles (and they have tons of colors, too), so it’s pretty easy to find a style that you’ll feel cute in all summer. The only catch? It’s pricey. Is Left on Friday worth it? Yes. I’ll explain why I think their swimsuits are totally worth the splurge below.
Left on Friday Review: Honest Thoughts and What to Buy
First Impressions: Fabric, Fit & Quality
One of the first things I noticed about Left on Friday swimwear is the fabric. It’s made from a blend of nylon and spandex that feels buttery-soft yet durable. Their fabric is called Smoothing Dream Fabric, and it’s compressive when wet and dry. It’s snag-resistant (finally, something that doesn’t pill after sitting on the pool deck just once!) and holds up in the sun without fading. I actually took two of their swimsuits to the Turks & Caicos with me last year, and will be bringing them with me again. I find that their swimsuits feel tight but not restrictive – similar to a great pair of leggings.
Another highlight? The straps. Both the bikini and one-piece stay in place without digging into your shoulders (if you notice them digging, get the tall length!). I also love that the suits come in a variety of coverage levels, so you can choose what works best for you. When I put their swimsuits on for the first time, my immediate impression was that I felt “held in.”
Colors & Style: What Stood Out
If you’re a fan of timeless swimwear, Left on Friday has some great options. I personally love the navy pieces because they’re classic and easy to mix and match. They also offer bolder shades if you prefer something brighter (I just ordered a red one-piece). One of the best things about Left on Friday swimwear is that the bikini tops and bottoms are designed to mix and match, making it easy to create different looks with just a few pieces. All of their colors are actually intended to complement each other, so you can buy any of their shades and mix and match your tops and bottoms.
Variety of Styles & Fit Options
When I bought my first Left on Friday swimsuit a few years ago (see it in this Dominica trip review), they only had a few styles. Now, they offer tons of options—so whether you’re an A or G cup, they make a top that will work. And the bikini bottoms have all sorts of coverage options, from super high-waisted to low-rise, and from full coverage to thong styles. You can even filter by the rise, chest coverage, and bum coverage you want, making it much easier to find the perfect fit.
The Price Point – How much does Left on Friday Cost?
The cost is a significant factor in Left on Friday swimsuits because they aren’t cheap. The pieces range from around $85 for bikini bottoms (you buy bottoms and tops separately) to $180 for a one-piece. At first, this seems steep for a solid-colored swimsuit (I felt this way!). But after wearing Left On Friday for two years, I can confirm that the quality justifies the price. The styles might seem simple, but you just can’t put a price on how good you feel while wearing them. If you’re looking for a long-term swim investment, the price feels more reasonable, primarily since mine have held up perfectly for two years with no issues.
Sizing: What You Need to Know
One of the most important things to get right with swimwear is sizing. Left on Friday runs pretty true to size, but because the fabric has a good amount of compression, you might want to size up if you prefer a less snug fit. If you’re in between sizes, consider going with your larger size for comfort, especially in the one-piece swimsuits. The Peak Suit, in particular, runs small, so I’d suggest sizing up. Their one-pieces come in two lengths: regular and tall. The tall is 1.5″ longer – roughly one size longer in length. This means the small tall = the fit of the small, but the length of a medium.
For D-G cup sizes, the bikini tops designed for high support actually provide solid support, which isn’t always the case with most stylish swim brands. See their fit guide here for more help.
What to Buy: Best Left on Friday Swimsuits
Best One-Piece: The Peak Suit
If you want a one-piece that is both stylish and supportive, the Peak Suit is my top choice. This one piece is super flattering without being too revealing. It has a flattering neckline, a sleek fit throughout, and a cute cutout that gives the appearance of abs (they call this a peek-a-boo), even if you don’t feel like you have abs! In my experience, this one runs small, so I size up to a Medium. It comes in two lengths, so if you have a long torso, I highly recommend the “long” option since it’s 1.5″ longer.
This suit works for the pool or on vacation, which makes it extra great. I wore it to the Turks last year (and am bringing it with me again this year), and I wear it at the pool with the boys during summer all the time.
I ordered this swimsuit from Quince to see if it would be a good Left on Friday dupe, and it seemed nice, but ran so small that I couldn’t get it on my body. Based on other swimsuits I’ve tried from there that had some fit challenges, I’d stick with the real thing.
If you love a one-piece that offers a great fit without looking frumpy, the Sunday Suit is another must-try. It has just the right amount of coverage while still feeling modern and stylish. The waistline hits at a flattering spot, which makes it a good option if you’re in-between sizes or want a little more shaping. The v-neckline is a great option if you have a larger bust, too! The bum coverage is slightly less than The Peak Suit, but still not super cheeky. This one also comes in two lengths, so consider getting the tall fit if you have a longer torso.
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Best Bikini Top: The Sunday Top
If you prefer two-pieces over one-piece swimsuits, the Sunday Top is a great option to start with, and this is my favorite bikini top. It’s similar to the Sunday suit one-piece style (v-neck), but just the bikini version. I find that v-neck styles are most flattering on me, but I need to size up for this summer since I’m breastfeeding these days. It’s designed for B-D cups, and it’s their best seller (if you have a larger bust, they make this in a Sunday Top D+ version)! I pair mine with the High-Waist style bottoms (details below).
Left on Friday bathing suits are unique because you can mix and match all of their bikini tops and bottoms with each other. I love this because you might like a slightly more revealing top but want a more full-coverage bottom, for example. I love the Hi-Tide bottoms. These are the bottoms that actually made me fall in love with high-waisted styles! I’m petite—5’1″ and muscular—and typically, high-waisted bikinis do not look good on me. They hit in the wrong spot and emphasize the wrong things. But this one is magic. It hits at just the right place, smoothing everything out while still feeling trendy. I recommend sizing up for the most comfortable fit if you’re in between sizes. You can see these bottoms in the photos above!
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Best for Active Swimmers: Top Shelf
If you spend more time in the water than lounging poolside, the Top Shelf bikini top is a good option. It has good bust coverage and support, so it will stay in place whether you’re swimming, surfing, or playing with your kids in the water. No awkward adjustments required! Pair this top with whichever bottoms suit your fancy. The Streamline Top is similar but for smaller busts, if that’s you.
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Left on Friday Activewear
While I purchased my swimsuits on my own, I was gifted some Left on Friday workout apparel—and I absolutely love it. The pieces have the same buttery soft fabric as their swimwear, and they are insanely flattering. They hold up so well for workouts and athleisure. Definitely worth adding to cart while you’re shopping!
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Left on Friday Swimwear?
If you want a swimsuit that’s well-made, has high compression, and doesn’t look frumpy at the pool when you’re swimming with your kids, yes, Left on Friday is worth the splurge. The price is on the higher end, but the durability and fit justify it.
Who It’s Best For:
People who want high-quality, long-lasting swimwear
Those looking for activewear-style swimsuits that stay put
Anyone who prefers sleek, minimalist designs over trendy prints
Who Might Skip It:
Anyone looking for budget swimwear under $50
Those who prefer ultra-trendy or heavily detailed swimsuits
Overall, I’d recommend trying at least one piece—especially if you’re tired of swimsuits that don’t last. Left on Friday definitely delivers on its promise of chic, functional, and flattering swimwear. Would I order again? Yes! Next on my list is trying more of their one-piece swimsuits and high-waist styles.
. I love how streamlined it makes my routine. I use it in the morning after vitamin C and before sunscreen, and it layers perfectly under makeup.
