© Reformation
“Do you prefer a little tease of a forearm and the rest is left to your imagination?” The cast explains why their love story is different.
© Courtesy of BritBox
Blush is no longer just the final step—it’s the product doing the most work in your makeup routine. The prettiest new formulas launching for spring add a flush of color, and they blur pores, boost radiance, and layer in skincare benefits. Creamy textures that melt in like a second skin, luminous finishes that fake a full night’s sleep, and pigment that does double duty as both makeup and treatment will all contribute to improving how your skin looks over time.
From glow-boosting balms to soft-focus powders and serum-infused tints, today’s blushes are designed to enhance more than just your cheeks. Consider this your guide to the multitasking blushes that are hitting the market now.
The Merit Flush Balm Cream Blush is all about flexibility—adapting to whatever look you’re going for. What makes it unique is that it boasts a balm-like texture that even a beginner can blend out, giving you a sheer, barely there tint with one swipe. This product also has the ability to build beautifully if you want more color without ever looking heavy or overdone. Because it’s so forgiving, you can apply it straight from the tube and blend with your fingers (no precision needed) making it an easy, versatile staple, whether you’re keeping things minimal or layering for a more glamorous look.
For an option that does far more than just add a pop of color, this trio gives you a fully customizable cheek in one simple compact. It has a mix of cream, balm, and powder formulas, letting you play with different finishes to create dimension, glow, and a soft-blur effect all at once. The cream absorbs into skin for a natural flush; the balm adds that dewy, lit-from-within sheen; and the powder diffuses everything for a smooth, perfected look. Whether you wear each formula on its own or stack them together, the product is designed to enhance your skin rather than sit on top of it—making your blush look more like real skin, just better.
The Prada Touch Cream-to-Powder Soft Blur Longwear Blush is less about adding color and more about refining your entire complexion. The texture starts off as a silky cream, then quickly sets into a soft-focus powder that diffuses the look of pores and texture. What I love most about this blush is that it lends your cheeks a smooth, almost airbrushed effect. It also blends seamlessly on contact and builds without ever looking heavy, landing on a soft-matte finish that still feels fresh and dimensional—not flat.
If there’s one blush formula that feels tailor-made for spring, it’s this one. The liquid blush delivers that fresh, just-pinched flush in a formula that’s light enough for warmer days but opaque enough to elevate your whole look. The texture goes on as a weightless liquid, then diffuses into a soft, blurred matte that looks like real skin, not makeup. It’s especially ideal as temperatures rise because it sets without feeling heavy or sticky. As a result, you get that breathable, cloud-like finish that won’t slide around by midday. And because it’s waterproof and transfer-resistant, the color will grip without going patchy or fading.
This formula from MCoBeauty doubles as a skincare-infused essential that keeps your face looking hydrated and healthy throughout the day. The blush ingredient list reads more like skincare than makeup, boasting castor oil, jojoba seed oil, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid, which work together to nourish, soften, and give skin that naturally plump, dewy look. Even better, it’s designed for true versatility. You can swipe this onto both your cheeks and your lips for a quick, monochromatic moment that pulls your whole look together.
Consider this duo from LYS Beauty your no-fuss blush that takes the guesswork out of adding color and smoothing your skin. It’s composed of a cream layer that melts in for a skin-like base, plus a powder that softly diffuses, helping to even out texture and give cheeks a smoother, more refined finish. Together, the two create dimension without heaviness, so your blush looks fresh and seamless rather than flat. Infused with skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide and green tea extract, it also helps boost radiance and brighten the look of skin over time, making it feel like a glow-enhancing step as much as a makeup one.
You didn’t think Dua Lipa would leave the fashion at home during vacation, did you? The singer shared a glimpse into her and fiancé Callum Turner’s latest stop in Copenhagen, which included casual stripes and denim. However, the singer proved her prowess at elevating even the simplest pieces from her edgy, eclectic sensibility—and revived two nostalgic 2014 fashion trends in the process.
During her and Turner’s travels, Lipa posed for Instagram photos in a long-sleeved, sailor-striped Ann Demeulemeester shirt. The black and white piece was tucked into a pair of blue denim jorts with distressed hems, though it could also be cinched from long black side ties. Her look’s otherwise simple pieces were instantly nostalgic, simultaneously channeling the edgy style of 2014 from its sailor stripes and ripped denim. Both trends dominated the mid-2010’s from their specific aesthetics and grungy feel, as seen on fashion-focused stars like Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, and Cara Delevingne at the time.
Lipa’s 2014-coded outfit earned her signature whimsy from a wide-ranging mix of current trending accessories. The singer boosted her attire’s prints with a large, slouchy brown suede Phoebe Philo tote, complete with a dark brown striped pattern. A Western belt with thick silver hardware—a top spring style also seen at Coachella and Stagecoach—cinched her look with a dash of heavy metals. The musician’s ensemble was finished with smooth black heeled thong sandals, hailing from Demna’s first Gucci show, which embraced the sweeping nostalgia for similar 2000’s pieces today.
Lipa finished her outfit with glossy maroon sunglasses from Jacques Marie Mage, as well as a smattering of gleaming Bulgari rings. The finishing touches brought a punky feel to her look, utilizing subtle details to elevate its otherwise simple pieces.
However, Lipa’s trip abroad wasn’t solely a street style romp. While in Copenhagen with Turner, the star also shared snapshots of lush gardens, oysters, and lunch at Pompette—plus, per her caption, plenty of wine. The pair also enjoyed various art exhibitions on their travels, including pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat and Sophie Calle’s On the Hunt exhibit.
Even when you’ve honed your fashion sense, there’s always room for a nostalgic reference. After Lipa’s past nods to ‘70s, ‘90s, and 2000’s style, it’s clear the 2010’s have successfully made it into the mix.
When Odessa A’zion showed up to her first Met Gala on Monday night, she was wearing a custom Valentino look she’d helped design herself. She and Alessandro Michele had traded sketches, notes, and references back and forth, riffing on the night’s dress code, “Fashion is Art,” until they got the daring outfit exactly right.
The final look was a nod to pre-war Hollywood: a black silk peplum corset with sparkling pink-and-blue floral embroidery, matching cut-out lily flowers covering A’zion’s chest, a black silk scarf worn like a choker, black tights and leather thigh-high boots, and a long black and slate blue embroidered cape worn off the shoulder, trailing dramatically on the floor.
“I loved the idea of lily flowers, embroidery, a fabric that would reflect, and a big old scarf and a long wide cape,” A’zion told W . “We had a lot of 1925-1940 cabaret wardrobes and film costumes, especially embroidered body pieces, on our moodboard. What they made back then was so elaborate and detailed. We loved and pulled from that quite a bit.”
A’zion typically does her own hair and makeup, and this night was no different, with a few extensions added to her signature bouncy black curls. She completed the look with well-placed sparkly freckle-jewels on her face and Pandora jewelry, including flower- and heart-detail rings. Of the night’s theme, she added with characteristic flair: “Fashion is always art, baby, no matter what it is!”
Though it was A'zion's initiation into fashion's biggest night—one co-chaired by Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and Anna Wintour, and which raised a record-breaking $42 million for the Museum's Costume Institute—the 25-year-old is no stranger to a high-stakes red carpet. After her breakout last year as Timothée Chalamet’s love interest in Josh Safdie’s nine-time Oscar-nominated Marty Supreme, followed by her instantly cult-favorite role as Rachel Sennott’s influencer best friend on HBO’s I Love LA, A’zion has established herself as one of Hollywood’s most compelling new faces. The Met Gala was just a chance to show off her sartorial range—and to connect with some of her favorite fellow artists.
She was one of eleven attendees dressed by Valentino for the evening, a star-studded group that included Joe Alwyn, Colman Domingo, Sombr, and Tyla—who happens to have worn one of A’zion’s favorite Met Gala looks of all time. Also on A’zion’s personal Met Gala Mount Rushmore: “Rihanna! Madonna! Zendaya! Kim Kardashian! Cher!”
In the end, the best part of A'zion's look was the creative work that went into it. “[It was] really incredible to be able to collaborate on such a piece of art,” she added. “It meant so much to me. I felt so taken care of by Alessandro and the whole team. It was handled with such care and artistry. What a cool experience.”
The Met Gala is a particularly heart-thumping occasion, especially for first-time attendees. The best advice she got from those who’ve done it before, “‘Breathe on the carpet. It’s scary, but it’s fast.’ I think I forgot to,” she says. In past interviews A’zion has joked that she basically blacks out ahead of facing the photographer onslaught, a feeling she reiterated to W. “I don't think I have a free second to calm my nerves until I'm on the other side of the carpet, and it's over,” she said of her getting ready process. “Sometimes I'll turn off music for a little bit beforehand, so my brain doesn't explode."
A’zion was most excited for what happened at the top of the steps. “Honestly, I was most looking forward to seeing what designers had created this year,” she said. “And, seeing what happened on the other side of it all, because I had zero clue what went down in there.”
When she’s in the right headspace, though, her pre-carpet ritual involves putting on the soothing music of her favorite artists. “When I’m listening again, it’s Bob Marley, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, just good music. Whatever feels good.” It’s a fitting move for A’zion, who, in addition to preparing for acting projects like Oscar-winning director Justine Triet’s first English-language feature, Fonda, is also finally embracing her lifelong love of singing. Just a few days before the Met Gala, A’zion officially released her first two songs under her name, “Liquor Store Roses” and “Maybe I’m Not What You Need.” The spare, confessional ballads show off A’zion’s smoky, unguarded vocals.
As for what's next musically? "I guess we'll just have to wait and see!"
Once a year, for about half of the year, the generational baddie of the solar system, Pluto, stations retrograde. Before you start sounding the alarm, let me reiterate that Pluto stations retrograde for approximately half the year. And thankfully, this is nothing new to us. We’ve been experiencing the culture shifts provided by Pluto, the society-ruling sign, since 2023. From May 6 to October 16 of this year, Pluto will retrograde through the revolutionary, innovative, and forward-thinking sign of Aquarius. This retrograde gives us the chance to review how we’ve been changing socially, what tools are moving our lives forward, and our aspirations.
Aquarius is deeply connected to society and social lives. This is the trendsetter sign, after all: finger always on the pulse, keeping the rest of us from getting lost in the Stone Age. Over the past few years, you’ve probably noticed the way you connect with others is shifting—or, at the very least, your respect for these social interactions has changed. Pluto in Aquarius marks a social upheaval. In a digital age, where over half of the global population is on social media, we are more connected than ever. However, there is a trend bubbling up involving “dumb phones,” analog items, and the return of IRL house parties. While they’re all valuable ways to stay connected, Pluto’s retrograde in Aquarius encourages us to think about which social experiences lead to the most genuine human connections. Over the next few months, it’ll become apparent not just how you can build these connections, but also which connections hold the most value for you. Who are your people, and how will you continue to grow with them?
In addition to support from people, you’ve also got a few months to think about the gizmos and gadgets that will aid in your goal-chasing journey. Aquarius is the inventor of the stars, constantly thinking about what makes our world function and how to make life easier through innovation. That said, not all inventions stand the test of time. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try out new tools, or ways of problem-solving. We just need to be a bit more conscientious about it for the next few months. While Pluto is retrograde, there might be some technical difficulties in your life. These are moments you’re being called to ask “Is this the most efficient way to get what I need to get done? And on top of that, is this process actually progressing me forward, or is it just cutting corners?” Pluto in Aquarius seeks innovation, but also wants you to know when to cut through the slop that is cosplaying as progress.
Pluto in Aquarius is an aspirational time, and the next few months will help us remember where we are going. With the changes to culture and contraptions happening, it’s important to reflect on the life you want. Aquarius archetypically holds onto utopian ideals, with a humanitarian flair that understands progress requires a village. What does that dream life look like for you? Who and what will help you build it into a reality?
While it’s normal to expect the unexpected with any Aquarius transit (i.e. expect the end goal to change over time), it’s essential to have some kind of end goal in mind. Aquarius is dually ruled by Saturn and Uranus, which means this sign knows better than any other how to build upon what already exists. For you, that looks like the universe constantly taking what you want to do and naturally shaping it into something better. So do what Pluto requires of you and start making deep, fundamental changes to the things that aren’t working and are no longer aligned with your vision. Trust that whoever or whatever is pulling the strings will keep you on the right path.
For extra astro guidance, read for your rising sign below! These are sign-specific reflections to help you navigate the next few months of Pluto retrograde.
Expect a shake-up in your social life soon. Start exploring new ways to connect with the world around you—this is a good time to join a community or team-based club/organization. The airy energy of Pluto in Aquarius will only fan your flames higher and higher, so look forward to the inspiration that comes from others. Be cautious of falling into old social habits or patterns. Let these six months be a period of social rebirth.
Pluto retrograde gives you the chance to revisit your legacy. You are a stability-loving sign, but you could be feeling an itch for something new. What aligns with who you are? Who can you work with to carve out a professional path that is perfect for you? There’s no more time to clock in and out without feeling a gust of inspiration. Take these few months to revisit your long-term plan of action.
Pluto retrograde will push you to continue being curious. You might find yourself revisiting some old ideas of the world, or filling in the gaps of how you understand this place we call home. Close the loops over these next few months. Use this period of time to go as deep as the iceberg will allow you. No longer are you a jack of all trades, but rather you are becoming a master of all.
Pluto retrograde will help you dive deep and shed your skin, metaphorically speaking. You will be experience a greater understanding of yourself and your most intimate relationships by the end of these six months. The manner in which you share who you are continues to evolve, so if there are any boundaries you feel like have been crossed recently, go ahead and re-establish them now. Embrace the intensity, expect the unexpected, and know that this is the time for you to take back control.
Pluto retrograde will be a moment to assess your relationships: professional, plutonic, passionate—all of ‘em. You might feel particularly like there are some power struggles going on, or a feeling that one party is trying to push the other to bend to their will. Compromise is key, but that doesn’t mean you should compromise on your values. How and with whom you choose to connect will change over the years, so let these next few months be a lesson in who should stand the test of time.
It’s time to get serious about your work. These next six months, you might feel like life seems a bit more mundane, which is not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes moving on autopilot is necessary to focus on inner work, or to chip away at a goal. That said, if you’ve been slacking at all you could experience a bit of tension. Reflect on how you want your life to operate and start making the changes slowly, over time, so that life can start being a reality.
Oh, how special this retrograde will be for you! During the next few months, you might notice an urge to explore former passion projects, reignite old flames, and find ways to reconnect with your inner child. Pluto in Aquarius is a spark of inspiration that shifts how you express yourself, and shine in the world. People-pleasing should go out the door, because right now is your chance to prioritize your happiness. Trust the fact that, if you make changes from within yourself, you will inspire others to do the same.
Pluto retrograde could be a bit tough, so get ready to do some of the hard work these next few months. You might have to revisit some tense conversations, or wash the salt out of any re-opened wounds. The lesson here is to focus on how you emotionally regulate yourself. What needs to change so you can feel more at ease, day in and day out? If there is something to get off your chest, or a hatchet that needs to be buried, take action.
The next six months will be a bit of a mental whirlwind with Pluto retrograde. You might have moments of déjà vu in conversation, or you could feel as though you can’t get an idea out of your head. Revisiting how you consume information, and what you choose to share is important right now. Rather than getting caught up in an inner monologue, make sure you are sharing what is on your mind and perhaps someone else’s perspective could help you piece together the answer to the deep questions you’ve been asking.
Pluto retrograde is a great time for you to realign financially. You might have noticed that money is feeling a bit tighter than you’d like. There is only so much you can do about the global economy, but there are steps you can take. Revisit your budget and where you are spending your hard-earned cash. Doing this in conjunction with some reflection on your values will help you pinpoint what to prioritize. There’s no need to change what works, just find ways to be more conscientious about how you use your resources.
Pluto retrograde in your sign is both a celebration and a mourning period. On one hand, you will probably feel like you are disconnected from the person looking back at you in the mirror. You might question yourself, wondering who you will be at the end of this long transit. However, it is also a celebration of your growth and how much you’ve been able to overcome. Don’t stress about having it all figured out, or trying to force yourself into a box. You will continue to evolve, so be grateful for the person who got you here, and welcome in the person who will get you through the next phase of life.
The next few months will be filled with healing and spiritual insights. Pluto retrograde will aid you in understanding more deeply your beliefs and your dreams. Additionally, you’ll find that these next six months will be filled with natural endings, both internal and external. Remember: when one door closes, another one will open. Be patient, and let yourself surrender to the changing of the seasons.
Kate Middleton is no stranger to recycling styles from her wardrobe for public appearances, which she did again this morning in London. Making an appearance at the University of East London to launch the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood’s new “Foundations for Life: A Guide to Social and Emotional Development” initiative, Middleton was sharply dressed in a light tan suit by Roland Mouret. If you’d seen it before, its because she fist debuted it back in 2023.
Middleton’s suit encompassed a tailored blazer and high-waisted trousers, which she layered over a silky white collared blouse. She opted to keep her accessories minimal, only pairing the set with small pearly drop earrings and smooth brown leather Ralph Lauren pumps. In fact, the shoes were also a style Middleton’s reworn numerous times.
Her suit, meanwhile, was first spotted in 2023—also worn with a white top and pointed-toe pumps—during a meeting with frontline staff of the Streets of Growth program in London. When making appearances on the behalf of charities, Middleton likes to keep the focous of her own clothing. Yet, even when dressed in sharly tailored neutrals, she still makes a statement.
The royal also accessorized with her go-to gold Daniella Draper necklace, accented with letter pendants representing her children’s names. Like her shoes, Middleton’s jewelry has been part of numerous outfits since she was first seen wearing the piece last year.
The moment also continued Middleton’s suiting streak. Apart from her rotation of tea-length dresses, the royal often favors a coordinated suit in a range of colors from labels including Alexander McQueen, Emilia Wickstead, and Holland Cooper. Naturally, most have been re-worn for various occasions, similarly to her tan Mouret set.
Since wedding Prince William in 2011, Middleton’s become known for re-wearing her clothes across a wide range of occasions, from the red carpet to nonprofit visits. This Easter, she stepped out in a belted Self-Portrait blazer and dress that she first wore in 2022. Earlier in the year, the white Chris Karr coat from her 2023 Christmas service outfit was repurposed to celebrate the Hindu festival of holi with British Indian citizens, as well. This latest look shows that her upcycled fashion ethos is only growing, maintaining both responsible sustainability and polished style.
Login