#summer semi annual sale

[allthingsscented]

Semi Annual Sale Haul!

Here are my first impressions/reviews:

Fresh Amalfi Lemon 🍋

I love this, it's a sweet lemon and I love the herbal notes the spearmint brings.

Fruity Sherbet Scoop 🍧

I had this in the body wash last year and loved it so much I had to get the whole line. It's fruity (obviously) but the sweet treat vibe of it is nostalgic to me somehow!

Wild Madagascar Vanilla 🍨

This one is somewhat of a scooby doo mystery (a la Queen of the Girl Geeks, thank you Bonnie for the perfect phrasing) to me. My mom had this in the fine fragrance mist years ago and I hated it! But the cream is amazing!? I love how creamy it smells and the floral and pear round it out well.

Main Street Bakery 🍌

Ok, I walked in to SAS saying I would buy 1 candle. I am running out of storage space in my current apartment and wanted to hold off until moving on acquiring any more. But when I picked this one up I knew I was breaking my own rule! It smells like an amazing banana pudding confectionary bakery blend. SO GOOD!

Apple 🍏

See prior reviews, I decided I needed back up FFM and a shower gel.

Vacation Vibe ⛵️

One of the few I bought that weren't on sale: I love this! It's a wonderful pistachio and amber coming through for me. Perfect for summer!

Love Always Wins: Vibrant Citrus & Sage 🌈

I think this is the best pride scent yet. It's deep and woodsy yet brightened by the citrus!

Water Lily Springs 🪷

This scent is an aquatic fresh floral. I loved it so much in the shower gel I wanted to pick up a FFM.

Very Berry Crisp 🫐

I put this straight out to use once I bought it. Smells just like berry cobbler!

Springtime in Paris 🍑

I love this scent. The light floral and peach makes it perfect for spring. What really sold me was the birds on the jar. They remind me of something my grandma would've loved 🦜

Wallflowers

I don't have many reviews yet for these but I can say the Almond Croissant is 1) AMAZING 2) STRONG!! and 3) true to its name!

[mrsshabana]

𝐄𝐦𝐨 𝐆𝐲𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐨 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐧𝐬

꒦꒷‧₊ Content Gyutaro x genderneutral!reader, fluff ꒦꒷‧₊ Note A gift for @matsukaah based on a beautiful artwork she did ♡

"Is that Gyutaro Shabana?" You said in disbelief as you saw the familiar boy walking around the mall in heavy emo fashion.

Black nails, eyeliner, ripped skinny jeans, studded belts, and combat boots. He looked like he walked straight out of an early 2000s HotTopic ad.

This isn't how you're used to seeing him. No, at school he's usually dawning the same uniform as everyone else and keeps to himself.

He always seemed so shy and quiet that you never would have imagined this was how he dressed outside of class. Though it makes sense—the prestigious Catholic school would never allow such a thing.

Gyutaro only goes full out like this on long breaks, like summer and winter. Mostly because he'd get annoyed painting his nails every weekend just to have to rub it off before school started on Monday.

God, did he hate that school. He's only going because his stupid stepdad is forcing him to. But if it were up to Gyutaro he wouldn't be in school at all. He much rather start a band with his friends.

Not to mention the constant bullying he goes through. You wouldn't know it because you never hung around him that much, but he gets picked on almost daily. His unconventional appearance and his shy personality make him a prime target for bullies.

Sure, you were nice to him when you'd cross paths but it was never enough to make a significant difference or improve his shitty school experience.

So you could say he's shocked when he sees you approaching him at the mall, waving your hands like you two are friends.

"Uh... hey Y/N," he mumbles when you get close.

"Hey Gyutaro! I like your outfit!" You say with a cheery expression that would annoy him if it was on anyone else's face but yours.

His eyes widen like he can't believe you just complimented him, "Th-thanks... I like your shirt. D-Did you get it at HotTopic?" He asks shyly, not used to having casual conversation with someone as cute as you.

You look down as he points to the anime shirt you're wearing, "Oh, yeah I did. How'd you know?"

"I go there all the time, I've seen it before," he smiles softly and moves a strand of hair out of his face, revealing his red cheeks, "Um... they're actually having their semi-annual sale right now. Maybe... I dunno... we could go check it out together?"

"I'd love to," you blush, surprised that he wants to hang out with you, "Lead the way."

After that day you exchanged numbers and he'd always ask you to go shopping with him. You were the only person besides his sister who knew he was emo, so naturally he loved inviting you out with him so he wouldn't be so lonely.

Despite his intimidating appearance, Gyutaro was a sweet guy. Extremely shy, but super sweet.

He'd be too shy to ask you out on proper dates, only asking you to go shopping with him because he didn't want you to think he was weird or to know that he was crushing on you. But to his dismay, Ume told you exactly how her brother felt about you.

Because the first time you came over to their house she said, "Brother won't shut up about you! It's Y/N this and Y/N that! I think he's obsessed with you. Can you guys just kiss or whatever so he'll stop talking about you all the time? It's like getting annoying."

Gyutaro's face turned red with embarrassment and he ran to his room. He can't believe his sister outed him like that in front of his crush! It's taking all of his willpower to hold back his tears. The only thing stopping them from flowing is knowing that it'll ruin his eyeliner if he cries.

"Hey Gyu... can I come in?" you say as you softly knock on his door. You don't get a response so you enter the room anyways to find him sitting on his bed with his hands covering his face.

He can't bear to look at you as he feels you sit beside him, the embarrassment he feels is overwhelming.

Gently wrapping your hands around his wrists, you move his hands away from his face and stare into his watery blue eyes. The amount of shame and fear in his gaze makes your heart ache.

So in a swift movement, you lean forward and kiss his chapped lips. His eyes widen but he doesn't pull away, instead leaning into your embrace as your acceptance feels too good to ignore.

Once you pull away you smile and move his long hair away from his face, "If I knew you liked me as much as I liked you I would have done that a long time ago."

And that's how your relationship with the shy emo boy began.

[indigostudies]

2024.05.25 // week 5/10

it's been two weeks since i post a study update oops.......in my defence, i've been really busy! (cons of taking twenty credit hours haha.) i've managed to attend almost all of my classes in the past two weeks, which i'm very proud of! even though my linguistics class is, frankly, a drag </3 in nicer things though: the campus is blossoming, the weather is no longer cold, and the asian studies department did its annual book sale, where i picked up a whole stack of books for less than it would cost me to buy a single one usually. i'm also getting back to taking notes on my personal language studies—pictured above: mango for iraqi arabic, and busuu for korean. i'm getting to a point with korean where i'm semi-confident in knowing some things, and i'm considering doing a summer study programme next year for korean, since my uni has a lot of partner programmes. i also finished my chinese midterms, and i have my turkish midterm next week. i'm about 65% done with my classical poetry final project, and i'm going to get a start on my (dreaded) linguistics final project and presentation.

[glitterynostalgia]

Below is a short story I wrote. I originally wrote it as a play Junior year and thought it would be fun to rewrite as a story:

“At Your Own Risk”

It’s a sunny June day in Vegas. We are here for my cousin’s boyfriend’s 21st birthday. She invited me and my sister, Chelsea. My cousin, Tara, and her boyfriend, Mason decided to go watch a movie while my sister and I shopped around. It’s semi annual sale season which is very important.

“First day in Vegas has been pretty relaxing actually. I didn’t know their outlet mall was so lively.” I comment.

I feel as I’ve seen everything already. Yet something catches my eyes. There’s a dark, mysterious looking building. In big red letters it reads “Lucy’s Luxaries”.

“Maybe, we should check this store out!” My sister Chelsea acknowledges.

“That feels like a dumb opening of a horror movie move.”

“I thought you wanted this summer to be about adventure, Yasmin.”

Chelsea gives me a look and walks in anyways. I try to grab her but she yanks her hand. I miss when she was 5 and I could easily pick her up and run. I decide to follow her. I mean if ghostface or Pennywise is in here, i can probably take them out.

As we walk in, I feel chills through my spine. There’s mysterious red handprints on the wall and ominous piano music.

A woman in a long black dress then walks over to us. I want to think maybe this is just like a Spencer’s or Hot Topic.

“Welcome girls, Come on in. Everything is 50% off. But both of you should be aware of one small thing.” The woman smiles.

“What thing?” I ask concerned

“ Don’t dare go through the painted line at the back”

Chelsea rolls her eyes and smiles a bit.

“Why? Is there construction or something?” Chelsea asks

“Not necessarily but we just don’t want a repeat of the incident.”

“Um what incident?” I question

“Let’s just say it’s called Lucy’s luxuries for a reason.” the woman insists.

“Oh I get it. This is money laundering. Well we aren’t snitches. I actually would love more money as well” Chelsea insists.

The woman grins, very sinister.

“No but you don’t want to make mother Lucy upset.”

I now feel this is the cue to run. Chelsea, however, starts laughing.

“Ok. First of all, Lucy is the most unscary name on the planet. Second, I am not scared of whatever you are trying to pull!” Chelsea insists.

“‘Chels! Don’t say that. Who is Lucy? What is the incident?”

The woman gives Chels an evil look and explains. “She was one of the original founders of the store. A jealous employee and her fought in the back. Lucy began losing a lot of blood after the employee cut her. She survived but something possessed her. She lives in the back of the store and no one who has crossed that line has survived a confrontation. Now. I’ll let you girls choose if you want to leave now or you could stay.”

Chels puts her hand over my mouth, “Oh, we will stay.”

The woman eerily walks away. I have so many bad feelings about this.

“Do you think the Lucy thing is real?,” I whisper.

“Of course not. It’s obviously a promotion stunt. It’s literally called Lucy’s Luxaries.” Chels claims.

I feel maybe I should believe Chelsea. I mean, she is 2 years younger but she is a psychology major. I’m a fashion design major. We look at a clothing rack full of vintage clothing. I see an old school Frank Sinatra t shirt.

“Ooh I love this,” I insist.

“Since when do you listen to Sinatra?” Chels questions.

“Ok Miss Gatekeeper. I just thought it was cute.”

“I mean it is pretty cute. Damn, don't be sassy.”

I then find a My Chemical Romance t-shirt. It looks pretty cool, except i notice something about their faces. Their eyes are dark red with no pupilsnand the members look like they’re scared.

“What the?” I show Chels.

“It’s probably a special edition.”

“Ok and why do they look scared with red eyes?”

“I'm not sure but doesn't MCR have a lot of random photoshoots?.”

Suddenly my phone dings. It's from a random number.

It says: “The end is coming for you, Yasmin.” I quickly show Chelsea.

“It could be a freaky prank. Just block the number.” Chelsea comforts,

She’s not wrong but still? This person knows my name? I mean it can’t be this Lucy lady because how would she know name?

Chelsea stops for a minute to think.

“Wait, maybe we would know if the Lucy thing is real if we look it up.” Chelsea insists.

I grab my phone and look up “Lucy’s Luxaries Las Vegas''. There’s an article from 2000 about the incident.

"Apparently the employee that killed her was a rival and had a plan to kill her. Lucy heard the employee's plan so she was a step ahead and tried to stab the employee first. The employee then fought back with a pocket knife right on Lucy’s throat."

"That's so sad but then how did they know she survived?" Chelaea asks.

"Lucy’s body somehow vanished before the ambulance arrived and the employee died suspiciously in prison. There’s a whole thread of sightings on reddit.”

"So the story really is true. Ok, I am so sorry Yasmin. Let’s leave.” Chelsea agrees.

My inner final girl was telling her that a while ago but now my inner final girl has different ideas.

“Maybe we should stay.” I say.

"Are you kidding me Yas? You're the one who wanted to leave in the first place"

"Well now I'm saying we should stay. Imagine how cool we would sound with this story.”

“Hmm, I don’t know. I think Mason and Tara might be waiting for us so let’s go.” Chels hesitates.

“Oh so now you're being the wimp? I thought this was an adventure summer” I defend.

“Alright, fine.”

Suddenly I notice Chels’ feet over the green line. This can not be good. Clothing racks started to rise and fall all over the floor. The lights start to flicker on and off. A random laugh can be heard. At the back of the store, this thick green fog started to show.

"I WASN’T EVEN OVER THE LINE.” Chels yells as we begin to run. The doors then close and lock. We can’t get out!

The mysterious woman appears.

“You went on the line and I overheard you both talk about Mother Lucy!” The woman exclaims, “Lucy gets angry very easily when people talk about the incident.”

“Listen, I didn’t believe at first because I didn’t know there was more to the story.” Chels hesitates.

Suddenly the woman’s demeanor changes into a huge smile. She begins cracking her neck. There’s a huge red scar. Her eyes glow red and her hair grows longer.

“There’s only one way to leave.” The woman insists,

“Well what is it?” I wonder,

“One of you comes and tries to defeat me.”

“I volunteer Chels as tribute.”

“Yasmin?!”

“I mean, you did step on the line and hey, this can be your final girl era.”

“Fine. What do I need?” Chelsea asks Lucy.

“Just a strong heart if you have one.”

As Chelsea gets closer to Lucy, there’s a strong wind.

“Ok why are you doing this though?” I ask.

I actually have no idea why I would ask that.

“I am always here to defeat humans. Humans are terrible.” Lucy exclaims.

“Ok I agree but you don't see me haunting the back of a store.”

Chels gives me the hand signal to shut up and falls.

I notice a tube filled with a bright red liquid. It's the same color I saw on that MCR shirt earlier.

“Ok. That's it. I'm going in. I must become the opposite of who I thought I was.” I tell myself.

“No! Yasmin! it's ok just go without me.” Chels exclaims.

Suddenly Lucy starts to chant. I don't know what's happening but I can feel something overpowering my body. I don't know what it is.

Lucy laughs.

“Yasmin?” I can hear Chelsea say.

I try to respond but something is overpowering me.

“I'm your nightmare.” I can hear the voice say.

“Yasmin! Snap out of it. Don't let her posses you!”

I can't speak. I try to overcome it.

“Look into my eyes and become one of us.” The deep voice says.

“No! Let go of my big sister.” Chelsea cries.

I try to scream “red” to guide her to the bottle. I don’t know if it was some sister telepathy because she is running towards the tube.

“Where are you going?” Lucy screeches.

“Oh no where.” Chelsea says as she grabs the red bottle.

“What's that?”

Suddenly I go blank. I can't see or feel anything but for some reason can still hear.

“Yasmin! Speak to me. I was wrong ok. I'm so sorry for putting you through this. Just speak to me. Please.” Chelsea exclaims.

“She’s gone.” Lucy laughs.

Suddenly I feel some of my senses come back.

“Chelsea. I'm gonna be okay. If I don't survive, you can do this without me. Be the final girl” I feel some last strength to say.

“No. I don't know how I'd live with myself. I love you.”

Chelsea starts to cry but then grabs the bottle from his pocket.

Chelsea throws the liquid at Lucy.

“Haha. You failed. You need to say the chant too.”

Chelsea tries to recite the chant Lucy tried earlier. Suddenly I'm feeling my body come back to normal.

“Chelsea?” I exclaim.

“Yasmin!” Chelsea cries and runs. We give each other a big hug.

“Now let's defeat this demon bitch.”

“I'm with you.”

I look at the bottle and see there's a saying on it.

“Hey maybe we need to say this?”

Chelsea agrees.

We say what's on the bottle. Suddenly the air becomes lighter and lighter.

“No! No! I do not lose.” Lucy screeches.

“Well there’s a first for everything.” I smile.

The light turns back on and everything is almost the same as when we came in.

“Now let's go. I just don't know how we'd explain this to Mason and Tara.” I wonder.

“I mean we can try to explain even though they’ll think it’s a prank.” Chels realizes.

Chelsea grabs her phone and calls Tara to pick us up. Chelsea and I walk towards the front to meet with Tara and Mason. We quickly go into the car.

“Hey guys how was your shopping trip?” Mason asks.

“Let's just say Chelsea battled a possible demon and I was possessed for like 20 minutes.” I respond.

Tara and Mason give us a look.

“Did they give you LSD when you entered the store? Did you see unicorns too?” Tara jokes.

“She's telling the truth. There's proof in my search history.” Chelsea defends.

“How about I just say I believe you and we all get ice cream so we can get out this freakish mall.” Mason insists.

“Ok let's do that.” Chelsea and I agree.

I don’t dare look back. This has been a pretty crazy day but what happens in Vegas, really does stay in Vegas.

[thebananniediariesbyannie]

shopping haul - semi-annual sale, treat-yourself-shopping, and frankie's bikinis! #VSPartner

if you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe with some trendy and comfortable pieces, here’s my latest shopping haul featuring victoria’s secret, pink, and pink by frankie’s bikinis. these styles are perfect for everything from lounging at home to soaking up the sun.

PLUS, some of these styles are on sale in the semi-annual sale happening now! tap the buttons and/or photos below to shop these styles and more! as always, thank you for using my links when you shop!

Swimwear

-wonderland top with matching reign bikini bottom: a dreamy set for poolside or beach days.

-poppi one-piece swimsuit: stylish and flattering for all body types.

-priscilla one-piece swimsuit: a chic option that transitions beautifully from swim to casual wear.

-buttercup bikini top with matching golden hour bikini bottom in cherry candy: vibrant and fun for summer outings.

Loungewear & Apparel

-ivy fleece campus sweatpants: cozy and perfect for casual days.

-brushed woven cargo pants: a trendy twist on everyday wear.

-base stretch bodysuit: versatile for layering or wearing on its own.

-sleep pant with matching cloud robe in bubble bath: luxurious for nights in.

Panties

logo cotton high-waist boyshort panty: comfortable and stylish for everyday wear.

Accessories

waffle crew socks in black and pink zinc: the perfect cozy addition to any outfit.

this haul has something for everyone, from relaxed loungewear to vibrant swimwear. explore these pieces to find your new favorites and elevate your wardrobe with the perfect mix of style and comfort.

follow along for a daily dose of style, beauty, and wellness wisdom served with a side of humor and a sprinkle of self-love – because life's too short not to be fabulous, and i've got the secrets to help bring out your best self

[backpacknbeyondstore]

When Is the Best Time to Buy a Backpack on Sale?

If you’re looking to save money on a backpack, timing your purchase can make a big difference. Here are the best times and strategies to find backpacks at discounted prices:

1. Back-to-School Season (Late July to Early September)

Why: Retailers stock up on backpacks for students, and there are frequent sales and promotions during this period.

Best Deals: Look for discounts on school backpacks, laptop bags, and smaller daypacks.

Tip: Wait until mid-September for clearance sales when stores want to move leftover stock.

2. Holiday Sales

Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Major discounts on all types of backpacks, from travel gear to outdoor packs.

End-of-Year Clearance: Many retailers clear out inventory to make room for new arrivals, offering steep discounts in late December or early January.

Tip: Sign up for newsletters from your favorite brands or stores to get early access to deals.

3. Prime Day (July)

Why: Amazon's annual Prime Day event offers discounts on a wide variety of items, including backpacks.

Tip: Compare prices with other retailers, as some competitors also run sales during this time.

4. End of the Travel or Hiking Season

Late Summer (August-September): Discounts on hiking and camping backpacks as the outdoor season winds down.

Early Winter (November-December): Travel backpacks often go on sale after the peak summer travel season.

5. Off-Season Sales

Backpacks are often discounted during their "off-season." For example, winter backpacks may go on sale in spring, and summer travel backpacks are often cheaper in fall.

6. Flash Sales and Brand-Specific Events

Many outdoor and travel gear brands, such as Osprey, The North Face, or Patagonia, have annual or semi-annual sales.

Look out for flash sales on e-commerce sites like REI Outlet or Backcountry.

7. Clearance and Outlet Stores

Check outlet malls or clearance sections of websites for last season’s models at reduced prices.

Tip: Don’t overlook online marketplaces like eBay or Poshmark for lightly used or overstocked items.

8. Special Discounts for Students or Military

Some retailers offer year-round discounts for students, teachers, and military personnel. Brands like Jansport, North Face, and others often have dedicated programs.

Conclusion

The best time to buy a backpack on sale depends on the type of backpack you’re looking for and your flexibility to wait for seasonal or promotional events. If you can plan ahead, back-to-school and holiday sales are the best opportunities to score great deals. However, don’t forget to check clearance sections and flash sales for year-round savings.

Get your best business backpack: https://shorturl.at/o7GtH

Do you have a favorite time or place to buy backpacks on sale? Share your tips below!

[statusshirts-01]

Must-Have Shirts Every Modern Man Should Own

In the world of men's fashion, shirts are the cornerstone of a versatile wardrobe. Whether you're heading to a board meeting, a casual weekend brunch, or a formal event, having a well-rounded collection of shirts is essential. According to recent fashion studies, men are increasingly investing in their wardrobes, with 60% of men spending more on clothing annually compared to five years ago. With this trend, it's crucial to know which shirts are indispensable for a modern, stylish wardrobe. Here’s a guide to the must-have different types of shirts every man should own.

1. The Classic White Dress Shirt

No wardrobe is complete without the classic white dress shirt. This timeless piece is the epitome of elegance and versatility. According to a survey by the fashion website The Idle Man, 78% of men believe that a white dress shirt is a wardrobe staple. This shirt can be paired with almost anything, from suits and blazers to jeans and chinos.

Why It’s Essential:

Versatility: Perfect for both formal and semi-formal occasions.

Clean Look: Conveys professionalism and simplicity.

Easy to Maintain: Stays crisp and fresh with proper care.

2. The Crisp Blue Dress Shirt

Following closely behind the white shirt is the blue dress shirt. This shirt offers a refreshing alternative to the white shirt while maintaining a professional appearance. According to data from FashionBeans, 52% of men own a blue dress shirt, and for good reason.

Why It’s Essential:

Color Variety: Offers a slight pop of color while remaining understated.

Pairs Well: Complements gray, navy, and black suits.

Flattering: Enhances a range of skin tones.

3. The Casual Chambray Shirt

For more relaxed settings, the chambray shirt is a must-have. This lightweight, denim-like fabric is perfect for casual outings and can be dressed up or down. Research by Men's Health suggests that chambray shirts have seen a 25% increase in popularity over the past three years.

Why It’s Essential:

Casual Chic: Ideal for casual Fridays or weekend wear.

Comfort: Breathable and soft on the skin.

Versatility: Looks great with both shorts and jeans.

4. The Plaid Flannel Shirt

Plaid flannel shirts are a staple for cooler months. They add a rugged, casual vibe to your wardrobe and can be layered over t-shirts or under jackets. According to a report from GQ, flannel shirts are a favorite among 45% of men during fall and winter seasons.

Why It’s Essential:

Seasonal Wear: Keeps you warm and stylish in colder weather.

Texture: Adds depth and interest to casual outfits.

Easy Layering: Works well with sweaters and outerwear.

5. The Polo Shirt

The polo shirt is a versatile piece that straddles the line between casual and smart-casual. It’s perfect for summer outings or casual work environments. A survey by AskMen found that 70% of men own at least one polo shirt, highlighting its widespread popularity.

Why It’s Essential:

Comfort: Casual yet polished look.

Breathability: Ideal for warmer weather.

Variety: Available in countless colors and patterns.

6. The Linen Shirt

Linen shirts are a summer essential, known for their breathability and lightweight feel. With the rise of global temperatures, linen shirts have become increasingly popular, with a 30% increase in sales over the last year, according to WWD.

Why It’s Essential:

Summer-Friendly: Keeps you cool and comfortable.

Relaxed Fit: Offers a laid-back, airy feel.

Quick Drying: Ideal for travel and hot climates.

7. The Oxford Shirt

The Oxford shirt is a step up from casual and provides a refined, yet approachable look. It’s a versatile shirt that can be worn both with and without a tie. According to a study by The Fashionisto, 60% of men own an Oxford shirt due to its adaptability.

Why It’s Essential:

Smart-Casual Appeal: Suitable for a range of occasions.

Durability: Made from robust fabric that lasts.

Layerable: Can be worn under blazers or sweaters.

8. The Patterned Dress Shirt

Adding a patterned dress shirt to your collection injects personality into your formalwear. Patterns like stripes, checks, or subtle prints allow for self-expression without compromising professionalism. A survey by Stylecraze found that 40% of men prefer patterned dress shirts for special occasions.

Why It’s Essential:

Visual Interest: Breaks the monotony of solid colors.

Personal Style: Allows for individuality in formal settings.

Versatility: Pairs well with both plain and patterned accessories.

9. The Short-Sleeve Button-Up

For those hotter days, the short-sleeve button-up is a refreshing choice. It combines the professionalism of a button-up with the comfort of short sleeves. With summer heatwaves becoming more frequent, 20% of men are investing in short-sleeve button-ups, as noted by Fashion Trends.

Why It’s Essential:

Cool Comfort: Ideal for high temperatures.

Smart-Casual Balance: Suitable for both casual and semi-formal settings.

Easy Maintenance: Requires less ironing and upkeep.

10. The Utility Shirt

The utility shirt, characterized by its functional pockets and durable fabric, is a nod to military-inspired fashion. It's practical for both outdoor activities and casual wear. According to a report by Men’s Journal, utility shirts have gained traction with a 15% increase in sales year-over-year.

Why It’s Essential:

Functionality: Offers practical features like multiple pockets.

Durability: Designed to withstand wear and tear.

Versatility: Great for both rugged and relaxed looks.

Conclusion

Building a wardrobe with these essential shirts will ensure you’re prepared for any occasion, from formal events to casual outings. According to recent fashion industry trends, investing in high-quality, versatile shirts can significantly enhance your style and confidence. Embrace these must-have shirts to stay sharp and adaptable in the ever-evolving world of men's fashion.

[adamgant]

7.19 Friday Faves

7.19 Friday Faves https://ift.tt/60SoYfX Hi friends! Happy Friday! What are you up to this weekend? Today is my nana’s birthday! So we’re absolutely looking forward to a celebration with the birthday girl. Other than that, Liv and I have a volunteer event, and we’re just going to chill and swim around here. I’m going to catch a quick TSS workout today, too! (Missing our Spain feasts so I made some paella and croquetas last night. Next Spain recap will be up on Modnay!) I’d love to hear what you have going on! It’s time for the weekly Friday Faves party! This is where I share some of my favorite finds from the week and around the web. I always love to hear about your faves, too, so please shout out something you’re loving in the comments section below. 7.19 Friday Faves Fashion + beauty + random: SO many amazing finds still in stock at the Nordstrom Anniversay Sale. Here are some of my top picks: The best pajamas Cute and comfy joggers. Like a more flattering version of a Nap Dress. Ordered these flare jeans. Obsessed with this athletic dress. These are my favorite black pants of all time. I wear them when I need to dress a little more business casual and they’re super flattering, and look cute with heels or flats. The perfect time to stock up on Bombas! Love this dress for everyday or travel. The best no-show socks! I’ve been looking for a new jean jacket… Classic straight-leg ankle jeans. I use this opportunity to replenish the underwear drawer. Liv and I both have and LOVE these Chelsea boots. Ordered these for Liv (but had to try them on) Love this snake chain bracelet. This three-pack of Apple Watch bands. Silk travel pajamas. This gorgeous suitcase. I neeeeeed it. This facial toning kit. This gorgeous tennis bracelet looks expensive but is only $45 with the sale. Personal microderm device! I’ve been wanting to try something like this and am definitely intrigued. My go-to daily cleanser. This is something I use on every pair of sneakers that comes into our house. It keeps shoes white and clean for so much longer… despite the kids’ best efforts to trash them lol. 😉 I also used it on Liv’s backpack this year and it made a huge difference. Read, watch, listen: Ok so I started this book and was really into it, and now it’s dragging. Do I stick with it or call it quits? Definitely check out this week’s podcast episode with Seed co-founder Ara Katz here! What’s something popular you just don’t get? Fitness, health, and good eats: Last call for the EquiLife semi-annual sale! SO many of my favorites are on sale right now, including the detox, universal binder, Omega 3s, magnesium, daily nutritional support, and their summer essentials bundle (which includes this amazing tote). If you want to purchase your fall detox, now is a great time! (Stack FITNESSISTA10 if it’s your first time ordering. If you place an order, email me your order number so you can get your extra giveaway entry) GIVEAWAY! Don’t forget to enter last week’s giveaway here! I’ll annouce the winners in next week’s Friday Faves post. If you haven’t made this tart already, doooooo it. Fitness terminology 101. Have a happy weekend and I’ll see ya soon! xoxo Gina The post 7.19 Friday Faves appeared first on The Fitnessista. via The Fitnessista https://ift.tt/oF3ns1w July 19, 2024 at 03:10PM

[spaciousreasoning]

Oregon Calling

We are still a week away from hitting the road to Oregon, but many people we have talked with over the last few months are already planning to come visit us in our new home.

Friends Catherine and Steve stopped by last night with some lovely chocolate dessert and went over their plans for a trip this summer that involves visiting Eugene. Some recovery friends will be headed up to Oregon at some point in the next year and promise to check in with us. And several acquaintances have mentioned friends and family who reside in Oregon and told us to be sure and make contact with them once we settle in.

Oregon seems to be a popular spot with a lot of people. And there are a number of reasons for this popularity. For one thing, Oregon is one of the most geographically diverse states in the country, marked by volcanoes, abundant bodies of water, dense evergreen and mixed forests, as well as high deserts and semi-arid regions.

Oregon's economy has historically been powered by various forms of agriculture, fishing, logging, and hydroelectric power. Oregon is the top lumber producer in the U.S., with the lumber industry dominating the state's economy during the 20th century.

Technology is another one of Oregon's major economic forces, beginning in the 1970s with the establishment of the "Silicon Forest" in the Portland area and the expansion of Tektronix and Intel. Sportswear company Nike, Inc., headquartered in Beaverton, is the state's largest public corporation, with an annual revenue of $46.7 billion.

Oregon is one of only five states that have no sales tax. Voters remain opposed to a sales tax, voting proposals down each of the nine times they have been presented. The last vote, for 1993's Measure 1, was defeated by a 75–25% margin.

Oregon has been home to many indigenous nations for thousands of years. The first European traders, explorers, and settlers began exploring what is now Oregon's Pacific coast in the early to mid-16th century. In 1592, Juan de Fuca undertook detailed mapping and studies of ocean currents in the Pacific Northwest, including the Oregon coast as well as the strait now bearing his name.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition traversed Oregon in the early 1800s, and the first permanent European settlements in Oregon were established by fur trappers and traders. In 1843, an autonomous government was formed in the Oregon Country, and the Oregon Territory was created in 1848. Oregon became the 33rd state of the U.S. on February 14, 1859.

Nancy and I look forward to exploring our new home state. We have already seen a good amount of it during our 2016 circuit of the western states and our two recent summer visits with the family there. But there is much that bears closer examination. Our adventures will be relayed through our social media presence, probably further enticing our Arizona friends to travel our way.

[earaercircular]

'Europe demands it and customers want it: aluminium must become green'

Aluminum Duffel is one of the largest energy consumers in the country. Green energy and recycling should help to reduce the CO₂ footprint of aluminium. “It's greening or disappearing.”

Two hundred thousand tons of high-quality aluminium, on rolls or in sheets. This enormous amount of semi-finished product leaves every year the foundry and rolling mill of the company Aluminium Duffel[1] in the town of the same name on the Nete. The basic raw material, primary aluminium, is supplied in small blocks. In the foundry, which cannot be visited for safety reasons, they are melted and mixed with aluminum scrap and alloying elements to obtain the desired chemical composition. Giant, silver-coloured blocks are then cast from this, measuring 50 centimetres thick, five meters long and 1 to 2 meters wide. Heavy forklifts then place these so-called 'slabs' again in ovens, where they are preheated before hot rolling: the block is pressed several times between heavy metal rollers - you can compare them with two enormous rolling pins - and spread out into an aluminium sheet of hundreds of meters long, which is then rolled up. During a second, cold rolling, the aluminium is finally rolled more thin to the thickness desired by the customer.

It cannot be seen from the metallic glow, but the heat of the finished aluminium rolls reverberates in the large factory hall. Almost half is intended for the major European car manufacturers, the rest is for other industrial applications. This makes Aluminium Duffel one of the largest aluminium producers in Europe.

It goes without saying that this entire process requires an enormous amount of energy. The foundry's melting furnaces operate on electricity, making Duffel unique in Europe. The rolling mill is heated with gas. The company uses 250,000 megawatt hours of electricity and 23 million cubic meters of gas annually. For comparison: for electricity this is the consumption of 70,000 families (an average family without solar panels consumes an average of 3,500 kWh). CO₂ emissions from that production process should be reduced to zero by 2050. “A huge challenge,” says Eddy Caers, sustainability director at Aluminum Duffel since this summer. Before that, he worked for the company as a sales manager for thirty years. 'A completely new world, but very fascinating.'

Norwegian hydropower

The CO₂ footprint of 1 ton of aluminium in Duffel is 5.2 tons. “From the extraction of the ore to the moment our product leaves the factory,” says Caers. 'we want to reduce that to a maximum of 5 tons in 2025 and 3.5 tons in 2030.' However, Aluminum Duffel only has a limited share in that total footprint: 0.2 tons of CO₂ is emitted there, the majority of the emissions occur earlier in the production chain, during the mining of the ore, the refining into aluminium powder and especially in the large smelters where that powder is converted into metal.

One of the largest aluminum smelters in Europe and an important supplier of Aluminum Duffel is Aluminum Dunkerque. “The footprint of those smelters is very diverse,” says Caers. 'In China this exceeds 20 tons of CO₂ emissions per ton of aluminum, in Europe it is around 8 to 10 tons. In countries that can fully benefit from renewable energy, as is the case with hydropower in Norway or geothermal energy in Iceland, this even drops to below 4 tons.'

Too dirty for recycling

“Initially we want to work more energy efficiently in Duffel and make our electricity greener,” says Caers. 'We want to reduce our consumption by 5 percent per year by working more economically. We have also signed a long-term contract with the wind farms in the North Sea, for 10 percent of our electricity needs. In addition, we are conducting a feasibility study for solar panels on our roofs and vacant land and we are converting part of our grey electricity into green energy by purchasing guarantees of origin.'

Important gains can mainly be achieved through recycling. “The share of primary aluminium that comes in here must be reduced and the share of scrap must be increased,” says Caers. 'Now 20 percent of what we supply to the automotive sector returns as scrap: these are the surpluses when the plates are cut and pressed. That should be increased to 30 percent. After all, reusing aluminium only requires 5 percent of the energy required to produce the primary raw material.'

Source

Lieven Sioen, Kristof Vadino, ‘Europa eist het en de klanten willen het: aluminium moet groen worden’, in: De Standaard, 11-12-2023, https://www.standaard.be/cnt/dmf20231210_96145935

[1] Aluminium Duffel is a European leader in the manufacture and sale of aluminium rolled products for diverse industries worldwide. It features state-of-the art technology, including the widest Automotive cold rolling mill in Europe and a CALP-line (Continuous Annealing Line with Pre-Treatment). https://aluminiumduffel.com/

[whatsonmedia]

Thursday Thrill: 3 Great Events in September 2023!

September is a great time to be in Europe, with a variety of festivals and sporting events taking place. Here are three of the best events happening in September 2023: Lollapalooza DE 9 – 10 Sept Returning for its seventh instalment after its huge successful first festival back in 2015. Lollapalooza Berlin is one of the largest European September festivals, which is known for is past success for pulling in a sizeable capacity festival music-loving crowds. In fact, 70,000 plus are expected to descend on Germany’s capital for one big festival weekend.  Hosting at the Olympic Stadium, the well-known Berlin festival is the celebration, for the best electric dance music. Boasting a stellar line-up of renowned international live artists and DJs, jetting in from every corner of the globe, this festival stands as a must-attend for enthusiasts of open-air revelry, avid travelers, and aficionados of unrivaled festival atmospheres. It's time to don your finest festival attire and embark on a multi-modal journey to one of Europe's premier party weekends. Featuring a smorgasbord of live bands and DJs including Mumford & Sons, David Guetta, Ava Max, The Blaze, Zara Larsson, Aurora, Mimi Webb, Imagine Dragons, Macklemore, Jason Derulpo SDP, Sam Fender, Lost Frequencies, Only The Poets and many moreTickets & More Info> lollapaloozade.com Shall Not Fade 9 Sept Following the success of its debut, Bristol's boutique 'Shall Not Fade festival' returns to Propyard. This intimate independent festival prioritizes community, spotlighting local and emerging talent in a one-day open-air event. The music spans heart-pounding dance genres, with after parties city-wide. With 20 artists across two stages, and Bristol's top eateries, it's a day-long musical marathon. For a friendly summer send-off, this festival is a must for discerning festival-goers. Featuring artists like Sully, Lauren Lo Sung, Killa P, 1-800 GIRLS, Breaka, Emerald, Samurai Breaks, Lily Huu, Adelphi Music Factory, and more. Tickets & More Info> shallnotfade.co.uk Rugby World Cup 2023 9 Sept In its historic tenth edition, the Men's Rugby World Cup brings together national teams in a quadrennial championship for rugby union. Over the next six weeks, international rugby clubs from around the world will compete in this annual sporting event. This year's prestigious tournaments are hosted across France in some of its largest stadiums. Paris is set to be the epicenter for two thrilling weekends of Semi-Final and Finals action. Tickets have been on sale since last year, but if you haven't gotten yours yet, there are still some available. Tickets & More Info> rugbyworldcup.com Read the full article

[allthingsscented]

Last Semi Annual Sale Haul!!

Here are my first impressions/reviews:

Pink Lavender Espresso- this one smells soooo cozy! i’m really excited to get it burning and see how it smells then. i think it would be nice to burn on a cozy rainy day in or maybe in cold weather ☕️

Lavender Vetiver- i got this one going in my bathroom today. i like it so far, it’s more of a woodsy scent than the sweet floral that usually is lavender from bath and body but i really like it! 🌲

Amethyst Dreams- i’ve had this one before and i loved it! it’s kind of hard to put the scent into words but it smells very fresh and clean with some floral. 💜

Raspberries & Whipped Vanilla- this one is a favorite, so i got it in the wallflower and room spray. it is a super sweet scent and true to its name! i really like to use it around Valentine’s Day, but it’s great year round as well 🍨

Cinnamon Spiced Vanilla- this is a bath and body works staple. it smells like cinnamon sugar deserts and it’s perfect to use year round 🍮

Sapphire Quartz- amazing! it’s woodsy and also has a cologne like scent to it. it is STRONG though! i plugged it in in my bedroom today and it has filled my whole apartment with its scent! 💎

Pure Wonder- had to get a backup of this! i used this so much more than i expected last winter. it’s a sophisticated and magical scent with some floral and some amber to it! 💕

Bamboo & Surf- i’m so glad i ended up getting this one. it smells like a nautical bamboo! perfect for summer. 🎋

Golden Sunflower- a favorite of mine, but i only got the mini mist in the past. it’s true to its name and is perfect for the end of summer! 🌻

Hand Sanitizers- they all smell great. i’m not going to go through and give a first impression for all of them right now but will likely review them as i use them. on first impression this Pink Peach Blossom is really standing out to me so i’ll be using it first! 🍑

Flowerchild- i’ve had this is the wallflower and it is so good. it reminds me of the retired scent Carried Away and it’s just as whimsical a floral as i remember that being. 💐

Car Fragrances- excited to have Iced Dragonfruit Tea, i’ve had it in the wallflower before and it’s so refreshing and fruity. i’ve had Warm Ocean Breeze in the car fragrance before and really liked it. Indigo Paradise is completely new to me so i’ll likely review it when i use it! 🌊

[josh-lanyon]

🦋🌷HUGE AUDIO SALE🌷🦋

Audible is running their semi-annual summer savings event and pretty much every title is deeply discounted some titles as much as 85% !

I've got a lot of books on Audible, so here's your chance to pick up some of those oddball and one off titles. 😉

[rtcphotowork]

As we prepare for an epic summer, we've also found some seasonal must-haves to keep circulating. From a holiday-appropriate Zimmermann crochet dress to an equally festive Wales Bonner cardigan, Nordstrom's semi-annual sale is giving us a lot to look forward to this holiday season. . Memorial Day Weekend. Explore all of our favorite sale finds right below. Barbiecore was inevitable last summer, with hot pink Valentino everywhere on the Original Neurodiversity Celebrate The Spectrum Artwork T-shirt But I will love this red carpet. And now with Greta Gerwig's Barbie —starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling—coming to audiences in July, the trend is set to enjoy another resurgence in the coming months. In fact, it seems that even the Princess of Wales Kate Middleton can't resist this summer's sweet pink. The royal stepped out for the engagement at the Foundling Museum in London in a pale pink Alexander McQueen suit, which she teamed with a matching blouse underneath and a pair of white heels (a shoe option that has become realistic). became Kate's summer new item). End of interface? A striking white belt with a pearl buckle is reminiscent of the beautiful accessories our favorite Mattel dolls wear. This isn't the first all-pink outfit we've seen from Kate this week: the royal stitched a bubble-pink Me + Em dress to attend the Chelsea Flower Show on Monday. Her most recent look was another iteration of the outfit, in which the Duchess first debuted her pale pink suit for the Royal Early Years Center roundtable in September. 6 year 2022. . Original Neurodiversity Celebrate The Spectrum Artwork T-shirt, hoodie, tank top, sweater and long sleeve t-shirt Given that Kate has no shortage of pink items in her inventory - from the Original Neurodiversity Celebrate The Spectrum Artwork T-shirt But I will love this sparkly The Vampire's Wife gown she wore to her evening reception in Belize last March to the floral The Stella McCartney gown which she picked at Platinum Celebration - check out this space to see if the royals lean even more towards this summer's hottest trends in the coming weeks. Since being praised for her portrayal of the famous first lady Jackie in 2016, Natalie Portman has been somewhat in the spotlight, performing strongly in independent films like Vox Lux but largely avoiding the spotlight . . But that's all about to change: with May, December, Todd Haynes' gripping new drama follows an aspiring actor researching the controversial woman (Julianne Moore) she's about to play. , the 41-year-old Hollywood actor is sure to return with the conversation award.

[thevenusiandiva]

My new beauty article about upcoming Bath & Body Works fragrances.

PLEASE READ, LIKE, REBLOG, SUPPORT AND SHARE!.

[duhome-usa]

Duhome Furniture Summer Sale.

June 21-June 28

Product :Modern Chic Velvet Papasan Chair Accent Chair

Price: $109.99  $99.99