What to Wear This Week: My Break Explained, a Substack Milestone, and Can’t-Miss Best Sellers

Happy Monday, Friends!

It’s been a little over a week since my last post—not a huge gap, but long enough that I wanted to acknowledge it.

May has already been intense. Between family milestones and work projects, I was operating at full capacity. Then, last week, something unexpected popped up and threw me for a loop. I had to step back and deal with what was right in front of me. It wasn’t planned, but it was necessary.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough content prepped to let the week pass uninterrupted—so I pumped the brakes. And that somehow spiraled into the worst case of writer’s block I’ve ever had. My brain just… went blank. Not a single thought to work off of.

This has always been the hardest part of running this business—the sheer volume of content it takes to serve our readership, keep up with Google’s ever-changing demands, and build enough runway to make it all work smoothly behind the scenes.

Thank you for being here—and for your patience. I’ve missed this space, and I’m so ready to get back to it.

So today, let’s reset—with a quick roundup of some of our best sellers so far, and the content you’ve responded to most over the last few weeks.

Before the break, we shared some helpful pieces, including a deep dive into the importance of ceramides in your skincare routine, and a practical guide to figuring out your wardrobe essentials so your closet better fits your actual life.

And over on Substack, I was excited to discover I’m now ranked among the top 100 Substack creators in fashion and beauty—sharing the list with some incredible writers and thought leaders. Waking up to that was exactly the kickstart I needed to get back into a healthier mindset.

Over there, I shared a personal essay about the invisible weight so many of us carry—and what actually helps when you’re the one holding up the sky. I also published a more lighthearted piece, A Midlife Edit: 20 Things I No Longer Believe, which is open to all subscribers.

Let’s get into it.

What Are Ceramides? And Why Your Skin Over 40 Needs Them

As we age, our skin naturally produces fewer ceramides—lipids that help retain moisture and protect the skin barrier. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and a dull complexion. This article breaks down what ceramides are, why they’re essential for healthy skin over 40, how to tell if your skin is lacking them, and which products can help replenish and support your skin’s barrier function.

How to Figure Out Your Wardrobe Essentials (To Create a Closet That Fits Your Life)

This guide walks you through identifying the core pieces your wardrobe actually needs—based on your lifestyle, not someone else’s checklist. Instead of chasing trends or duplicating influencer closets, it helps you define what essentials make sense for your daily routine, so you can build a closet that’s functional, intentional, and easy to get dressed from.

What Actually Helps When You’re the One Holding Up the Sky

A personal reflection on what it feels like to carry the invisible weight of being the one everyone relies on—and the small, practical things that actually help. It’s an honest look at emotional overload, burnout, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going, with a reminder that you’re not alone if you’re feeling stretched too thin.

A Midlife Edit: 20 Things I No Longer Believe

Last Week’s Best Sellers

A quick note on price points:
This week’s roundup leans a little more price-point heavy than usual—but please remember, our site features one of the widest ranges of options on the internet. From Old Navy to Tory Burch, we aim to share pieces for every budget and lifestyle. I think this edit reflects early-season investments in better basics—pieces that will carry you through many seasons to come.

I’ve also loved seeing so many of you invest a bit more in timeless shoes and bags, while balancing your wardrobe with well-priced clothing in natural, breathable fabrics. It’s all about smart, intentional choices—and building a closet that really works for you.

Banana Republic Factory Poplin Midi Skirt, now $55.00 – $75.00
A standout seasonal piece—crisp, lightweight, and flattering, it’s the perfect shorts-alternative readers are loving in both regular and petite sizes.

Ann Taylor Dotted Belted Flare Dress, $159.00 ON SALE: $94.50
Polished and pretty with a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette, this reader favorite is perfect for graduations, showers, or the office—and available in regular and petite sizes 00–18.

Margaux The MX Sandal, $275.00
Beautifully made and endlessly versatile, this refined leather sandal is a warm-weather staple—and I love that so many readers are choosing to invest in better, classic basics.

J.Crew Heritage Cotton Rollneck™ Sweater, $98.00
A forever favorite and year-round layering essential—this classic cotton rollneck keeps trending for good reason, and it’s back in stock in fresh seasonal shades.

Tory Burch Ballet Sport Loafer, $248.00
A modern hybrid of ballet flat and loafer, this versatile shoe blends comfort and polish—I have them in Dune, and they’re incredibly comfortable right out of the box.

Clare V. Grande Fanny in Natural Woven Checker, $325.00
A chic update to the belt bag, this woven Clare V. favorite has become a reader-loved staple for summer travel and everyday ease.

Uncommon James Chunky Ribbed Earrings, $48
An easy, everyday statement—these lightweight ribbed hoops add just the right amount of shine, and they’re also available in silver.

J.Crew Puff-Sleeve Top in Ramie, on sale $69.99
The top seller of both April and May—this airy, feminine blouse has been a go-to for readers thanks to its flattering shape, elevated feel, and wear-anywhere versatility.