Shall we all let out one collective hooray that spring has (semi-officially) sprung? I’ve been driving around town with a big, silly grin on my face—the sight of blooming trees and sprouting daffodils makes me almost giddy. The only thing I love as much as warmer weather is warm-weather recipes, and this roundup of light, fresh, and Easter dessert recipes is the perfect starting point for your Easter menu—or any outdoor family dinner that celebrates al fresco season, even on a Tuesday evening.

16 Easter Desserts That’ll Brighten Up Any Brunch

Few things capture the spirit of the season quite like a table full of beautiful desserts, and these spring sweets are just as delicious as they are gorgeous. Consider yourself warned: spring fever is about to set in.

Orange Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This orange carrot cake is a springtime standout, infused with a triple hit of citrus—from fresh orange zest and extract in the batter to a luscious orange cream cheese frosting. The result is a moist, flavor-packed cake layered with warm spices, carrots, and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s the kind of dessert that feels both nostalgic and elevated—perfect for Easter gatherings.

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Pistachio Honey Ricotta Cheesecake Bars

This is my favorite kind of dessert to bring out when I want something that feels a little bit special but couldn’t be easier to make. These ricotta cheesecake bars are lightly sweet, super creamy, and finished with a pistachio crust that makes them taste as good as they look.

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Strawberry Oatmeal Cream Pie Cookies

I’m always here for a dessert that feels a little nostalgic, and these oatmeal cream pie cookies do exactly that. With their soft oat cookies, creamy filling, and sweet-tart layer of strawberry preserves, they’re the kind of treat that feels both playful and unexpectedly special.

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Strawberries and Cream Pavlova

Some desserts just know how to steal the show, and this one does it effortlessly. With its crisp marshmallowy shell, soft center, clouds of whipped cream, and fresh berries piled on top, it’s as dreamy to eat as it is to bring to the table.

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Pistachio Cookies

If you’re in the mood for a cookie that feels a little unexpected, this is the one. They’re chewy and deeply pistachio-forward, with orange zest and cardamom adding just enough brightness to make them feel perfect for spring.

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Shaved Sumo Oranges with Dairy-Free Yogurt

Some of the best desserts are the ones that barely feel like recipes, and this is one of them. The frozen citrus and creamy yogurt make it feel light and fresh, while the nuts and chocolate on top add just enough texture to make every bite a little more fun. 

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Strawberry Olive Oil Cake

If I’m baking a cake this time of year, I want it to feel bright, seasonal, and easy enough to pull off without much fuss. This one checks every box, with sweet strawberries, lemony flavor, and a crunchy crumble topping that makes it hard to stop at one slice. 

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Grain-Free Lemon Raspberry Almond Cake

This is my favorite kind of seasonal cake: easy to love, pretty on the table, and full of fresh flavor. The sweet-tart raspberries and citrusy lemon make every bite taste like spring, while the grain-free base keeps things light.

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Cardamom Frangipane Pear Tart

A dessert like this feels like an instant centerpiece. With its flaky crust, cardamom frangipane, tender pears, and glossy layer of orange marmalade, this tart feels elegant without being overly complicated.

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Cherry-Berry Ice Cream Pie

If your ideal dessert is something chilled, uncomplicated, and guaranteed to disappear quickly, this is it. It has that perfect mix of creamy, fruity, crunchy, and sweet—without requiring much more than a freezer and a few good ingredients.

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Strawberry Cake With Mascarpone Creme

There’s a softness to this cake that makes it especially lovely for spring entertaining. The strawberries bring all the brightness, the mascarpone adds just enough tang, and the whole layered situation looks far more impressive than the effort involved.

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Peach Tarte Tatin

For a dessert that leans classic but still feels a little unexpected, this one is hard to beat. Ripe peaches, flaky pastry, and a rich caramel finish come together in a way that feels elegant, seasonal, and well worth bringing to the table. 

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Flower-Pressed Shortbread Cookies

More than just a cookie, this recipe feels like a celebration of the season. The pressed petals and herbs bring all the color and whimsy, while the shortbread keeps things grounded with that crisp bite everyone loves. 

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Citrus Olive Oil Muffins

If there’s a muffin version of spring, I’m convinced this is it. Bright with lemon and orange zest, flecked with poppy seeds, and finished with edible flowers, it’s the kind of bake that makes breakfast or dessert feel instantly more special.

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No-Bake Mango & Cardamom Icebox Cake

When the warm weather comes around, you can bet I’m making all the no-bake desserts. This one gets its edible beauty from layers of mango purée, biscuits, and the most luscious cardamom cream you’ve ever sunk your fork into. Bonus: it’s way easier than it looks.

Get the Recipe

Gluten-Free & Vegan Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Growing up, I thought carrot cake had to be healthy—there’s a vegetable in the name, after all. While most recipes lean on lots of sugar and oil for that classic moist crumb, these cupcakes keep things a little lighter with applesauce, flax eggs, coconut oil, and other whole-food ingredients.

Get the Recipe

This post was last updated on March 27, 2026, to include new insights.

The post The Easter Desserts Everyone Will Be Talking About This Year appeared first on Camille Styles.

When it comes to beauty, Bobbi Brown has always been a guiding light—championing the philosophy that true beauty begins from within. Over the years, her perspective has evolved to focus even more on how feeling good translates into looking your best, which she shares in her memoir, Still Bobbi. As we head into summer, Bobbi shares the daily rituals, mindset shifts, and easygoing beauty tips that reflect her signature approach to self-confidence. It’s all about keeping it simple.

Beauty Starts from Within

For Bobbi, the foundation of any great beauty routine has nothing to do with products—it starts long before you open a single jar.

“I’ve realized that it’s not about how you look; it’s about how you feel—in your body, in your skin. I’ve found that I look my best when I’m less stressed and taking care of myself. For me, a major key is staying hydrated. Lately, I’ve been loving chlorophyll drops in my water—it doesn’t really taste like anything, but it makes me want to drink more. Hydration has such a huge impact on how you feel and how your skin looks.”

Balance Is Key

Bobbi’s approach to food and drink is refreshingly unrestricted—and deeply practical.

“I rarely eat things that don’t make me feel good—but if I do, I own the consequences. I love pizza, but it has to be worth it since it probably won’t make me feel great the next day. So I’ve learned to only indulge when it’s really good.

Same with alcohol. I enjoy a cocktail, but stick to just one because I want to feel good enough to exercise in the morning. Life’s too short to deprive yourself of things you really love, as long as you keep it balanced and focus on ingredients. My go-to drink at home is called ‘Bobbi Rocks’—it’s vodka over a big ice cube with fresh lemon juice and a little mint. It’s clean, refreshing, and makes me happy.”

I’ve learned to only indulge when it’s really good.

Keep It Simple

Summer is Bobbi’s favorite season to pare back—and her warm-weather routine reflects exactly that.

“Summer invites us to do less. I move more, I’m more active, and my skin gets some sun (even with sunscreen!), so I find that I need less makeup. If I am wearing makeup, it’s simple: tinted moisturizer with SPF, a little Miracle Balm on my cheeks and lips, pencil under my eyes, and mascara. I usually finish it up in the car on the way to wherever I’m going.

I don’t believe in a full face of makeup in the summer—keeping it light feels fresh and more natural.”

The Rule to Break

Of all Bobbi’s beauty wisdom, this might be the most liberating.

“You don’t need foundation every day. If you have a little redness or a spot, just touch it up—you don’t have to cover your whole face. People look better with less.”

The Must-Have Product for Summer

If Bobbi had to choose just one product for summer, the answer is clear.

“Our Jones Road Beauty sunscreen is lightweight, blends beautifully, and is the perfect first step in any summer routine. If I had to pick one essential, it would be that—followed by our tinted moisturizer for a little extra coverage.”

Makeup for Mature Skin

Bobbi’s advice for skin that’s changed over time is simple: work with it, not against it.

“Make sure your makeup is working for you. If it settles into lines or makes skin look dry, it’s not the right product. Hydration is key—often, you don’t need more coverage, you just need more moisture. I love using oils, and our Oil Stick or Hippie Stick is great for adding that fresh, dewy finish.”

Wellness Habits for Glowing Skin

When it comes to the habits that actually move the needle, Bobbi keeps it straightforward.

“It’s the basics: drinking enough water, getting good sleep, moving your body, and eating real, whole foods. It doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about consistency.”

The Only Beauty Rule Worth Following

After years of building one of the most beloved beauty brands in the world, Bobbi Brown’s philosophy remains remarkably unchanged: feel good first, and the rest follows. No complicated routines, no products you don’t need, no chasing a look that isn’t yours. Just hydration, movement, a little sunscreen, and the quiet confidence that comes from taking care of yourself. Simple—and that’s exactly the point.

My Go-To Jones Road Picks

If Bobbi’s approach to summer beauty has you ready to simplify your routine, Jones Road is the place to start. The line was built around the same philosophy she’s been championing for decades—effortless, skin-first products that work with your face, not against it. These are the ones I keep reaching for.

Jones Road

Miracle Balm

$38 at Jones Road

Jones Road

Just Enough Tinted Moisturizer

$44 at Jones Road

Jones Road

Hippie Stick

$36 at Jones Road

Jones Road

Everyday Sunscreen

$42 at Jones Road

The post Bobbi Brown’s Rules for Summer Beauty appeared first on Camille Styles.

By the time spring arrives, I’m ready to move on from the heavier meals of winter and into something that feels a little lighter, a little brighter, and a lot more energizing. Enter: spring salad recipes that will actually keep you full and energized,

Because the best salads aren’t just a pile of greens—they’re layered with texture, flavor, and enough substance to carry you through your day. Think crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and protein-forward ingredients that make these feel like real meals, not an afterthought.

The Case for Spring Salads (That Actually Satisfy)

Below, I’ve rounded up my favorite fresh spring salads—from light, citrusy bowls to hearty, grain-based options—all designed to celebrate the season and leave you feeling your best.

Protein-Packed Spring Salads That Eat Like a Meal

Farmers Market Steak Salad

This salad hits that perfect balance of fresh and deeply satisfying. Juicy, garlicky steak layered over crisp, colorful vegetables and tossed in a sharp shallot vinaigrette. It’s hearty, protein-rich, and exactly what you want when you’re craving something substantial without feeling heavy.

Get the recipe

Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad

Golden, seared halloumi adds that perfect salty bite against fresh greens and seasonal vegetables. It’s warm-meets-crisp, with enough richness to turn a simple salad into something memorable.

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Black Lentil Salad with Roasted Vegetables & Goat Cheese

Earthy lentils meet crisp vegetables and a sharp vinaigrette for a salad that feels grounded but not heavy. It’s packed with plant-based protein and holds up beautifully.

Get the recipe

Feta Salad With White Beans and Lemon

Salty feta, creamy beans, and a punchy lemon relish come together in a way that feels both simple and special. It’s bright, bold, and filling enough to stand on its own.

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Erewhon Kale White Bean Salad

A little crunchy, a little creamy, and deeply satisfying, this is kale at its best. The white beans add substance, while the dressing softens everything just enough. Trust me, it’s crave-worthy.

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Mediterranean Tuna & White Bean Salad

This is the kind of pantry-friendly salad that somehow tastes far more elevated than it should. Creamy white beans and olive oil-packed tuna create a satisfying base, while herbs and acid keep everything feeling vibrant and fresh.

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Citrus Salmon Salad With Avocado & Arugula

Flaky salmon, crisp greens, and a bright, citrusy finish make this one feel equal parts light and grounding. It’s rich in protein and healthy fats, so you get that fresh, springy energy—without the mid-afternoon crash.

Get the recipe

Fresh & Crunchy Spring Salads

Radish & Fennel Citrus Salad

Peppery radish, crisp fennel, and juicy grapefruit strike that perfect balance of sharp and refreshing. Each bite wakes up your palate, making this one feel like spring in its purest form.

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Zucchini Ribbon Salad

Shaved zucchini feels delicate but holds its own with a bright, zippy dressing and just the right amount of texture layered in. It’s elegant without trying too hard—perfect for when you want something fresh but a little elevated.

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Snap Pea Salad

Sweet snap peas bring that unmistakable spring crunch, paired with fresh herbs and a light dressing that lets everything shine. It’s simple, crisp, and exactly what you want on a warm afternoon.

Get the recipe

Cucumber and Crispy Rice Salad

Cool cucumbers and golden, crunchy rice create an endlessly satisfying texture contrast. Tossed in a punchy, flavor-packed dressing, this is the kind of salad you keep going back to for “just one more bite.”

Get the recipe

Light & Herb-Forward Spring Sides

Pea Salad with Mint and Microgreens

Sweet peas and fresh mint are a natural pairing that never gets old. Light, bright, and just a little nostalgic, this one captures everything we love about spring in a single bowl.

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Fennel Salad

Thinly shaved fennel brings a subtle sweetness and crunch, lifted by citrus and herbs. It’s clean, understated, and the perfect reset alongside richer dishes.

Get the recipe

Grain & Hearty Spring Salads

Green Salad With Sesame Dressing

This is your everyday green salad, reimagined. The sesame dressing adds depth and richness, turning a bowl of greens into something craveable.

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Grilled Romaine Salad with Cherries and Feta

Grilling romaine transforms it completely—adding a subtle smokiness that makes this feel unexpectedly indulgent. Finished with a bright dressing, it’s simple but far from basic.

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Charlie Bird Farro Salad

Chewy farro, sweet tomatoes, and plenty of herbs make for a salad that feels effortless but incredibly well-balanced—equally suited for dinner parties or weekday lunches.

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Beet, Farro, & Goat Cheese Salad

Earthy beets and nutty farro create a deeply satisfying base, while fresh herbs and acidity keep it from feeling too heavy.

Get the recipe

Bright, Fruit-Forward Spring Salads

Green Fruit Salad with Ricotta and Herbs

A mix of crisp greens and peak-season fruit makes this feel endlessly adaptable. It’s the kind of salad that works with whatever you have on hand.

Get the recipe

Grapefruit, Avocado, and Golden Beet Salad with Crunchy Chickpeas and Feta

Creamy avocado meets tart grapefruit for a combination that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s bright and clean, with just enough richness to keep you coming back for another forkful.

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Strawberry Caprese Salad

Juicy strawberries and creamy burrata are a pairing that feels almost too easy—until you taste it. With a hit of herbs and acid, it’s sweet, savory, and unmistakably seasonal.

Get the recipe

This post was last updated on April 22, 2026, to include new insights.

The post 20 Spring Salads That Actually Fill You Up (Yes, Really) appeared first on Camille Styles.

One day, early in my pregnancy, I found myself on my hands and knees scrubbing the walls, windows open, trying to escape the fumes from the products I was using. It was the first time I really questioned what was in my cleaning routine, and what I was breathing in.

At the time, non-toxic cleaning products weren’t as readily available. I relied on simple staples like vinegar and baking soda, slowly swapping out anything that felt too harsh or chemical-heavy. Today, the landscape looks very different. There’s no shortage of “clean” cleaning brands on the market—but knowing which ones are actually worth it is another story.

So we did the testing for you—narrowing it down to the ones that truly deliver. Ahead, we’re sharing the best non-toxic cleaning products for every part of your home, plus exactly what to look for (and avoid) when making the switch.

What to Avoid in Cleaning Products

If you’re making the switch to non-toxic cleaning products, the first step is knowing what to leave behind. Many conventional cleaners contain ingredients that can irritate the skin, disrupt hormones, or impact indoor air quality—especially with repeated use.

While labels can be confusing, there are a few common culprits worth avoiding:

• Synthetic fragrance (often a mix of undisclosed chemicals)
• Phthalates and parabens
• Ammonia and bleach
• Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
• Glycol ethers (like butyl cellosolve)
• Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
• 1,4-dioxane
• Artificial dyes and colors

A good rule of thumb: opt for products with shorter, more transparent ingredient lists—and when in doubt, look up anything unfamiliar. Like with food and beauty, a little awareness goes a long way.

What to Look For in Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

Not all non-toxic cleaning products are created equal. As more brands enter the space, it’s helpful to know what actually makes a product clean and worth bringing into your home.

When you’re shopping, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Plant-based ingredients: Formulas powered by naturally derived ingredients rather than harsh synthetics
• Transparent labeling: No vague terms or hidden additives
• Fragrance awareness: Fragrance-free or essential oil–based scents
• Biodegradable formulas: Designed to break down safely without harming the environment
• Refillable or low-waste packaging: Concentrates and refill systems that reduce plastic
• Third-party certifications: Labels like MADE SAFE®, EWG Verified, or Leaping Bunny

The Best Non-Toxic Cleaning Products, At a Glance

If you’re not sure where to start, these editor-approved picks make it easy to build a non-toxic routine—without overhauling everything at once.

• Best Starter Kit: Branch Basics Premium Starter Kit
• Best Kitchen Cleaner: Flamingo Estate Heirloom Tomato Surface Spray
• Best Laundry Detergent: Wishing Well Boyfriend Material
• Best Bathroom Cleaner: Koala Eco Multi-Purpose Bathroom Cleaner

Best Non-Toxic Cleaning Starter Kits

If you’re starting from scratch, a well-designed starter kit is the easiest way to simplify your routine. These systems replace multiple products with a more streamlined approach—so you can clean your entire home with fewer, better essentials.

A minimalist, all-in-one system that actually works

Branch Basics Premium Starter Kit

If you’re looking to simplify everything under your sink, this is the one. The ultra-versatile concentrate replaces nearly every cleaner in your home—from kitchen spray to laundry detergent—without synthetic fragrance or unnecessary additives. It’s one of the few systems our editors consistently come back to.

$75 at Branch Basics

An elevated, fragrance-forward cleaning ritual

Saint Olio The Originals Trio Pack

This is cleaning as a sensory experience. Saint Olio’s aromatic cleaner concentrates are hand-blended with essential oils and botanicals, transforming everyday tasks into something that feels more like a ritual than a chore. Each concentrate is diluted with water to create a powerful, non-toxic cleaner that works across surfaces—while leaving behind the most subtle, elevated scent.

$84 at Saint Olio

A low-waste, beginner-friendly cleaning system

Blueland Clean Suite Kit

Blueland’s dissolvable tablets make it easy to cut down on plastic without overhauling your entire routine. Just add water, drop in a tablet, and you’ve got an effective cleaner for nearly every surface. It’s one of the simplest ways to make a more sustainable swap.

$98 at Blueland

Under-the-Radar Favorites (Editor Picks)

A certification-backed, high-performance clean

AspenClean Starter Cleaning Kit

Certified by ECOCERT and made with plant-derived ingredients, AspenClean strikes the rare balance between high-performance and truly non-toxic standards. The scents are fresh and subtle—never overpowering.

$96.99 (reg. $98.99) at AspenClean

A full-home, luxury cleaning upgrade that feels like self-care

Preston Lane Signature Set

This is where cleaning meets home fragrance. The Signature Set includes everything from an all-purpose cleaner and dish soap to hand wash, hand cream, and even a candle—creating a full sensory experience that extends beyond just cleaning. Made with plant-based ingredients and infused with fine fragrance, it leaves your space (and your hands) feeling as good as it looks.

$69.30 (reg. $99) at Preston Lane

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Best Non-Toxic Kitchen Cleaners

The kitchen is where your cleaning products work the hardest—cutting through grease and handling everyday messes. The best options get the job done without harsh fumes, leaving your space clean, fresh, and safe for daily use.

A kitchen cleaner that doubles as a home fragrance

Flamingo Estate Heirloom Tomato Surface Spray

This is the kind of product that makes you want to clean your kitchen. Inspired by summer gardens, it blends notes of vine-ripened tomato, herbs, and spice for a scent that’s fresh, green, and unexpectedly addictive. Beyond the fragrance, the biodegradable formula effectively cuts through grease and grime—making it as functional as it is beautiful.

$36 at Flamingo Estate

Fast, low-effort cleanups

Biom Standard All Purpose Wipes

For quick cleanups, these wipes are a game changer. They’re plant-based, biodegradable, and gentle enough for both surfaces and skin. The refillable dispenser keeps things minimal and mess-free—perfect for busy kitchens.

From $27 at Target

A refillable, design-forward cleaner that performs

Guests on Earth Reusable All-Purpose Cleaner

Guests on Earth reimagines the everyday cleaning spray as something you actually want to leave on your counter. The reusable aluminum vessel is paired with concentrated refills made from plant- and mineral-derived ingredients that break down grease and grime without synthetic fragrance or harsh chemicals. The scents—blended with essential oils—are subtle, fresh, and genuinely enjoyable.

$18 at Guests on Earth

Threshold

Homecourt Mandarin Basile Surface Cleaner

Founded by Courteney Cox, Homecourt brings a beauty-industry sensibility to everyday cleaning. The plant-based formula uses coconut-derived surfactants to break down grease and grime while leaving surfaces streak-free and polished. But what really sets it apart are the scents—think neroli leaf, steeped rose, and basil—that make your kitchen feel more like a well-designed space than a chore zone.

$26 at Homecourt

A design-forward cleaner you’ll actually display

L’Avant Collective Multipurpose Surface Cleaner

You won’t want to hide this one under the sink. With its minimalist packaging and elevated scent, L’Avant turns a basic cleaning step into something more considered. It’s gentle, effective, and beautifully designed.

$16 at L'Avant Collective

Best Non-Toxic Laundry Products

Laundry is one of the most personal parts of your cleaning routine—it touches everything you wear, sleep in, and live in. The right formulas don’t just clean effectively—they care for your fabrics, feel gentle on skin, and leave behind a scent you look forward to carrying into your day.

A modern, signature-scent laundry routine

Wishing Well Boyfriend Material Laundry Detergent

Playful but surprisingly refined, this detergent delivers that just-washed, perfectly lived-in scent you want to linger in. Notes of bergamot and pink pepper open with a crisp freshness, layered over geranium and moss, and grounded in a warm base of vetiver and orcanox. It’s the kind of scent that feels both clean and magnetic (I’ll say it again: “boyfriend material”). Each bottle lasts for about 74 washes.

$26 at Revolve

A luxury, fragrance-forward laundry experience

Archipelago Charcoal Rose Laundry Detergent

This one transforms laundry into an experience. With notes of charcoal, black cassis, and pressed rose, it leaves fabrics smelling more like a fine home fragrance than a typical detergent. The plant-derived enzymes work to lift stains while staying gentle on fabrics and skin.

$26 at Archipelago

Washing delicates with a luxury touch

POETICA Midnight Grandiflor Delicate Wash

Designed specifically for delicates, this wash feels more like a fragrance than a detergent. The scent is floral, slightly moody, and incredibly transportive—turning even the most routine load into something indulgent. It’s especially ideal for lingerie, knits, and anything you want to treat with extra care.

$40 at goop

A laundry routine that doubles as your signature scent

DedCool x OUAI Melrose Place Dedtergent

If you already love DedCool’s cult-favorite fragrance, this is your excuse to bring it into your laundry routine. The scent is soft, musky, and skin-like—less “fresh laundry,” more your favorite perfume, but cleaner. It leaves fabrics subtly scented in a way that feels modern and effortless.

From $38 at DedCool

A natural, reusable alternative to dryer sheets

Quince 100% New Zealand Wool Dryer Balls

A simple swap that makes a noticeable difference. These 100% New Zealand wool dryer balls soften fabrics, reduce static, and help speed up drying time—without the need for synthetic dryer sheets. They’re reusable for hundreds of loads, making them one of the easiest low-tox upgrades you can make.

$12.90 at Quince

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Best Non-Toxic Bathroom Cleaners

When it comes to the bathroom, you want products that truly work. From soap scum to hard water stains, the best options are tough on buildup but free from harsh chemicals—so you can clean effectively without compromising your air quality.

A naturally scented, plant-based clean that feels fresh and uplifting

Koala Eco Multi-Purpose Bathroom Cleaner

This ckeaner leans fully into the power of botanicals. Made with plant-based ingredients and Australian eucalyptus essential oil, it cuts through soap scum and grime while leaving behind a fresh, spa-like scent.

From $12.90 at Koala Eco

A non-toxic disinfecting alternative for high-touch surfaces

Force of Nature Basics Bundle

This is less of a traditional cleaner and more of a science-backed alternative to harsh disinfectants. Using salt, water, and electricity, it creates hypochlorous acid—a powerful cleaning agent that’s tough on bacteria but safe for everyday use. While it’s not designed to replace your go-to for heavy-duty scrubbing, it’s ideal for when you want a deeper clean without the fumes.

$79.50 (reg. $132.50) at Force of Nature

A budget-friendly, everyday bathroom cleaner

Public Goods Bathroom Cleaner

Simple, effective, and affordable, this is the kind of cleaner you’ll reach for daily. Made with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, it gets the job done without overwhelming scent or residue.

$13.95 at Public Goods

A low-waste, all-in-one bathroom solution

Bathroom Cleaner Starter Set

Blueland’s refillable system makes it easy to reduce waste while keeping your bathroom clean. The formula is effective on tile, sinks, and tubs—without the harsh fumes of traditional cleaners.

$16 at Blueland

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A Cleaner Home, A Calmer Life

The products we use every day shape how our homes feel, from the air we breathe to the rituals that ground us. Choosing non-toxic cleaning products isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about creating a space that feels calmer, safer, and more aligned with the way you want to live.

This post was last updated on March 26, 2026, to include new insights.

The post The Non-Toxic Cleaning Products That Finally Won Me Over appeared first on Camille Styles.

I tend to fall into lunch hyper-fixations, and right now this cucumber crispy rice salad is at the top of the list. Past phases have included this caprese pasta salad and a broccoli Caesar salad, but this one might be my favorite yet. Think crisp cucumbers, irresistible bites of crispy rice, plenty of fresh herbs, and a tangy, creamy miso dressing that ties everything together.

It also happens to be one of the easiest lunches to prep ahead. This cucumber crispy rice salad comes together with minimal hands-on time and only gets better as it sits. The vegetables add freshness and crunch, while the crispy rice and hearty protein make it satisfying enough to keep you full all afternoon.

Ingredients for This Cucumber Crispy Rice Salad

The ingredient list for this cucumber crispy rice salad is pretty simple, but each component brings something important to the dish—crunch, creaminess, brightness, or depth of flavor.

Rice. My favorite shortcut? The ready-made rice packets in the pasta aisle. I never thought I’d become a fan of pre-cooked rice, but it’s the ultimate hack for a quick meal. Day-old rice works beautifully too, but if you’re short on time, this grocery store staple gets the job done.

Cucumbers. These bring the fresh, cooling crunch that makes the whole salad feel light and vibrant.

Sugar snap peas. Their natural sweetness balances the umami-rich dressing while adding another layer of crisp texture.

Herbs. The more, the better. Cilantro, green onions, and dill are my favorites, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.

Pickled onions. I love the sweet-tangy bite they add, but they’re totally optional if you want to keep things simple.

Tofu. Every good lunch needs protein. Torn tofu with craggy edges gets beautifully crispy, creating satisfying bites that will keep you full all afternoon.

Hummus. This is my cheat for an easy creamy salad dressing. Any ready made hummus mixed with a big squeeze of lemon is the key to a quick an easy lunch.

How to Prepare This Cucumber and Crispy Rice Salad

The best part of this salad is the crispy rice—and yes, you can make it ahead of time.

For the crispiest texture, use ready-made rice or day-old rice. The slightly drier grains crisp up beautifully in the oven, turning golden and crunchy for the perfect bite. Spread the rice in an even layer on a sheet pan, drizzle or spray with a little oil, and bake until golden brown, tossing halfway through. If you want to boost the flavor even more, try using a seasoned ready rice like cilantro-lime or spicy chili—though plain rice works just as well.

Because this salad leans more toward chopped salad territory, it helps to keep everything a similar size. Chop the cucumbers and snap peas into evenly sized pieces, and crumble the tofu into bite-sized chunks so every forkful gets a balanced mix of textures.

How to Store Leftovers

This cucumber crispy rice salad is an ideal make-ahead lunch. Because it doesn’t include leafy greens, it holds up beautifully in the fridge without getting soggy. I like to prep a batch and store it for up to 2–3 days, either dressed or undressed—the flavors actually get even better as everything sits together.

For easy grab-and-go lunches, portion the salad into mason jars or airtight containers. When lunchtime rolls around, you’ll have a satisfying, flavor-packed meal ready to go.

Other Favorite Make-Ahead Lunches

If you’re in a lunch prep groove, here are a few other favorites our team turns to again and again:

Rainbow Grain Bowl. A great component-prep lunch that comes together in minutes.

Hummus Toast with Tomatoes. Toast is one of the easiest lunch hacks for something quick, delicious, and satisfying.

Asparagus Frittata. A make-ahead egg bake packed with protein that’s easy to slice and pack for lunch throughout the week.

Cucumber and Crispy Rice Salad

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• Author: Suruchi Avasthi
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 2

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Description

An easy make-ahead lunch with crispy rice.

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1 cup day old rice or minute rice
• 1 block tofu, crumbled
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 2 cups sugar snap peas, sliced
• fresh herbs: cilantro, green onions, dill
• 2 tablespoons pickled onion
• 2 – 3 tablespoons of hummus
• juice of 1/2 lemon

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Instructions

1. Crisp the rice and tofu. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Spread the rice in an even layer on one side of the pan and drizzle lightly with oil. Crumble the tofu onto the other side, drizzle with oil, and season as desired. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping both halfway through, until the rice is golden and crispy and the tofu is lightly browned. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Assemble the salad. Chop the cucumbers, snap peas, and herbs, then add them to a large serving bowl. Add the crispy rice and tofu, toss with hummus and lemon juice, and serve chilled.

• Prep Time: 30
• Cook Time: 20
• Category: salad

Keywords: crispy rice, salad

The post I Can’t Stop Making This Cucumber Crispy Rice Salad for Lunch appeared first on Camille Styles.

I’ve been saying the same thing over and over again lately: I just want to feel caught up in my life. Not ahead, not on top of everything… just caught up, like there isn’t something waiting the second I finish whatever’s in front of me.

I said this to my boyfriend recently, and he immediately pushed back. There’s always going to be something else, he said—another email, another plan to make, another decision waiting for you at 5 pm. (To be clear, this was not the answer I was hoping for.) The feeling of being caught up isn’t something you arrive at and it stays that way forever. It’s something you keep creating, in small ways, throughout the day—often without realizing it.

That’s what I’ve been paying attention to this spring. A handful of small habits that have changed how I move through my life. I’m showing up differently to my work, my relationships, and even the way I think about things like food and fitness. Everything feels a little more additive and less like something I have to push through.

A More Realistic Way to Feel Better By Summer

We’re in that in-between window right now—the stretch between May and the start of summer—when routines haven’t fully settled and there’s still room to change how things feel. I’m thinking of it as a kind of runway: a few weeks where these shifts have time to build. That way, by the time summer arrives, you’re not starting from scratch. You’re already in it.

The idea of a reset sounds appealing, but it implies starting over, doing things perfectly, and getting everything in place all at once. Right when your energy is already stretched.

10 Spring Habits at a Glance

What’s felt more useful to me this season is a simpler approach. Paying attention to what already makes me feel better, and doing a little more of that.

1. Build one meal a day around color. Let fresh, vibrant ingredients guide what you eat. Everything else tends to follow.
2. Upgrade what you’re already doing. Spring is all about amplifying the romanticize-your-life vibes.
3. Work out at 90%. Leave yourself a little energy so you can come back tomorrow.
4. Create a clear end to your workday. A small transition helps you actually arrive in your evening.
5. Leave one thing undone on purpose. Decide when the day is complete instead of waiting for everything to be finished.
6. Make one decision before your energy dips. Remove one choice from your evening—it’s a huge energy booster.
7. Add a side quest. Follow one small moment of curiosity, just because you can.
8. Take your evening off auto-pilot. A loose plan keeps your night from feeling like an extension of the work day.
9. Build your day around natural light. Let sunlight anchor your routine instead of treating it as extra.
10. Notice what gives you energy. Pay attention to what works and keep that on repeat.

10 Spring Habits to Feel Better by Summer

These are the habits I’ve been returning to. They’re simple, but they’ve changed more than I expected.

1. Build One Meal a Day Around Color

I didn’t set out to change the way I eat this spring. It just… happened? Somewhere between farmer’s market runs and throwing together quick lunches, I started noticing that the meals I actually looked forward to all had one thing in common: they were full of color. Bright greens, spring strawberries, fresh herbs. All the goodness of the season made it’s way to my plate.

That shift alone has made food feel easier. When you start with color, the rest tends to fall into place. You build meals that are more satisfying, more energizing, and a lot less rigid.

Try this: Once a day, start with what looks fresh and vibrant, then add something creamy and something crunchy to round it out.

Some colorful meals to get you inspired:

• Burrata Toast with Blood Orange, Pistachios & Honey
• Cedar Plank Halibut with Salsa Verde
• Cucumber and Crispy Rice Salad
• Sweet Potato Breakfast Bowl with Kale & Jammy Eggs
• Strawberries and Cream Pavlova

2. Upgrade What You’re Already Doing

I’ve stopped waiting for something new to make my days feel better. Most of the shift has come from paying a little more attention to what’s already there and treating it like it matters.

The same coffee, but in a beautiful mug (taken outside instead of standing at the counter). Romantizing my lunch break. An evening walk that isn’t just about steps, but about noticing the light, the air, and the fact that I’m there.

This habit is all about you move through what’s already part of your life. That small shift has made everything feel a little more intentional and a lot more enjoyable.

Try this: Pick one everyday habit and make it feel like something you chose: better ingredients, a different setting, or one small detail that makes you want to be in it.

3. Do Your Workouts at 90% (And Notice What Changes)

For a long time, I thought a good workout had to leave me completely spent. 30 minutes minimum, high intensity, no shortcuts—otherwise it didn’t count. That mindset kept me stuck in a cycle where I’d go all in for a few days, burn out, and then fall off entirely.

What shifted for me was realizing that consistency has a lot less to do with intensity than I thought. Research around “exercise snacks”—short, more frequent bursts of movement throughout the day—shows that even small amounts of activity can have a meaningful impact on your energy and overall well-being.

Pulling back just slightly in my workouts and letting shorter sessions count has made it easier to create a routine. I feel better afterward, not depleted, and that alone has changed how consistently I show up.

Try this: Let your next workout be less intense than you think it should be—or break it into smaller moments throughout the day. Then notice how you feel later, not just when it ends.

4. Create a Transition Ritual Out of Your Workday

I didn’t realize how much my evenings were being shaped by my workday until I started paying attention to how I ended it. Without a clear break, everything just blurred together (flashback to how I spent every weekday during the pandemic, yikes). I’d technically be done, but still carrying the loose ends into the rest of my night.

Instead, I’ve been building in a small transition. A moment that signals to my body that I’m shifting out of one mode and into another. This isn’t a productivity hack. It’s all about giving yourself a chance to actually start your evening feeling restored.

Try this: Choose one consistent action that marks the end of your workday—stepping outside, putting on a different playlist, making a fun beverage—and let that be the signal that you’re done.

5. Practice Leaving One Thing Intentionally Undone

It’s taken me forever to accept this: there will always be something left on the list. That part doesn’t change, no matter how early you start or how efficient you are. What I’ve started experimenting with is deciding where the line is—choosing when the day is complete, instead of waiting for everything to be finished.

Trust me, it cchanges the feeling of your mornings, evenings, and really your life. Instead of carrying that low-level sense of “I should still be doing something,” you give yourself permission to stop. Over time, that starts to feel less like a compromise and more like a choice.

Try this: At the end of the day, choose one thing that can be saved for tomorrow or next week. This isn’t procrastination—it’s prioritization.

6. Stop Making Decisions at Your Lowest Energy Point

By the time late afternoon rolls around, even small decisions can feel heavier than they should. What to make for dinner, whether to work out, how to spend the evening—it all starts to blur together in a way that makes everything feel more draining than it actually is.

I’ve started noticing how much easier my days feel when I make one or two of those decisions earlier, before my energy dips. No full plan, just removing that one moment where everything suddenly feels like too much.

Try this: Decide one thing ahead of time—dinner, your workout, or your evening plan—so you’re not figuring it out when you’re already tired.

7. Add One Side Quest to Your Day

Not everything in your day needs to be efficient to be worthwhile. (Read that back.) I’ve been leaving space for one small, unplanned detour—a side quest, in the loosest sense of the word. Something I didn’t need to do, but wanted to.

We’re not going for drama here. A different route on a walk, stopping for something that caught my eye, lingering a little longer somewhere instead of rushing through. You’ll be shocked: it completely changes how your day feels.

Try this: Leave room for one small, unnecessary decision today—something guided by curiosity instead of efficiency. Follow it without overthinking.

8. Give Your Evening a Plan

Evenings can feel the most chaotic because they’re often the most undefined part of your day. By the time you get there, your energy is low, your patience is thinner, and everything—from dinner to what to do afterward—feels like one more thing to figure out.

What’s helped is giving the evening a loose shape ahead of time. Not a rigid plan, just a general direction so you’re not starting from zero when you’re already tired.

Try this: Earlier in the day, decide what kind of night you’re having—something simple like “easy dinner and a walk” or “catch up and early to bed.”

9. Build Your Day Around Natural Light

This has been one of the simplest shifts with the biggest impact. Instead of treating time outside as something extra, I’ve started building parts of my day around it—moving small, everyday moments into the light whenever I can.

A few minutes in the sun in the morning, a walk before dinner, even taking a call outside… It all adds up! You feel more awake, more present, and more connected to your routine in a way that’s hard to replicate indoors. (You’ll sleep better, too.)

Try this: Take one thing you already do—coffee, a call, a break—and move it into natural light. Let that be the anchor your day builds around.

10. Pay Attention to Your Energy-Givers

This has been a complete game-changer in removing the “should’s” from my day. I’ve started paying closer attention to what actually makes me feel better. More clear, more energized, and more like myself. Some of it is obvious, some of it is surprising. But once you notice it, it becomes easier to come back to. You stop guessing what you need, and start recognizing it in real time.

Try this: At the end of the day, take a minute to notice what gave you energy. Look for one way to repeat it tomorrow.

Change Your Habits, Change Your Summer

The funny thing is, I still don’t feel “caught up” in my life. At least, not in the way I thought I would. There are still emails (there will ALWAYS be emails), still decisions, and still things waiting for me at the end of the day. But I do feel a little more present, a little more energized, and a little more like I’m actually in my life instead of trying to keep up with it.

That’s what these habits have given me. Not a full reset, not a perfect routine—just a series of small shifts that build on each other over time. And that’s the real opportunity this season. You don’t need to change everything before summer gets here. You just need to start paying attention to what makes you feel better and let that lead the way.

The post If You Want to Feel Better by Summer, Start With These 10 Things appeared first on Camille Styles.

For something that’s supposed to leave our skin glowing, exfoliation can often feel like we’re doing too much—or somehow still not enough. It’s easy to fall into the trap of over-scrubbing, layering too many actives, or chasing that instant smoothness, only to end up with skin that feels tight, reactive, or out of balance.

Over time, I’ve learned that the best way to exfoliate isn’t about doing more. (Honestly, I’ve taken the opposite approach.) It’s all about creating a routine your skin can trust. As Anastasia Cupcea, founder of Anastasia Skin Care Studio in NYC, puts it: “Exfoliation is more about rhythm than rules.”

That rhythm shifts with your skin—your environment, the season, even what your skin has been through recently. After treatments like peels, microneedling, or lasers, she recommends pausing exfoliation altogether to allow the skin to fully recover.

For me, that looks like a simple Sunday night ritual: a head-to-toe reset that gently clears away buildup, restores hydration, and sets the tone for the week ahead.

The result isn’t just smoother skin (though you’ll absolutely see that). It’s skin that feels calm, supported, and naturally radiant—without the irritation that often comes from overdoing it.

What Is the Best Way to Exfoliate?

The best way to exfoliate isn’t about choosing between physical or chemical exfoliation—it’s about understanding how the two work together.

Physical exfoliation (like dry brushing or dermaplaning) helps lift away surface buildup, instantly smoothing the skin and creating that satisfying, just-polished feel. Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, goes a step deeper—using ingredients like glycolic or lactic acid to dissolve the bonds that hold dull, dead skin in place.

When used thoughtfully, this combination creates a kind of reset for your skin: clearing congestion, improving texture, and allowing the products you apply afterward to absorb more effectively. But before any exfoliation step, Cupcea emphasizes something more foundational: proper cleansing. Starting with clean skin—using a cleanser suited to your skin type—ensures exfoliation is both safe and effective.

The key is balance. Too much exfoliation—especially when layering multiple active products—can compromise your skin barrier, leading to irritation, sensitivity, and breakouts. But when approached with intention, exfoliation becomes less about stripping the skin and more about supporting it.

In my own routine, I think of exfoliation as a moment to reset, not overwhelm—one that leaves my skin noticeably smoother, brighter, and better able to hold onto moisture.

Editor’s Picks: Exfoliators That Actually Work

Dr. Dennis Gross

Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads

$94 at Sephora

Threshold

2% BHA Lotion Exfoliant

$37 at Paula's Choice

Dermalogica

Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator 2.6 oz

$69 at Dermalogica

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How Often Should You Exfoliate?

One of the most common mistakes with exfoliation isn’t how you’re doing it—it’s how often.

More isn’t better here. In fact, over-exfoliating is one of the fastest ways to disrupt your skin barrier, leading to sensitivity, breakouts, and that tight, reactive feeling that never quite settles. Smooth skin doesn’t come from doing the most—it comes from doing just enough, consistently.

“Most people fall into one of two camps,” Cupcea says. “They’re either over-exfoliating and damaging their skin barrier, or not exfoliating enough—leading to buildup, dullness, and congestion.”

For most people, a once-weekly exfoliation routine is more than enough to maintain smooth, clear, balanced skin. Think of it as a moment to gently clear away buildup, refine texture, and support your skin’s natural renewal process.

From there, lighter maintenance throughout the week—like a gentle cleanser or occasional mild exfoliant—can help maintain that glow without overwhelming your skin.

Of course, your ideal routine will depend on your skin type:

• Sensitive skin: Once a week (or even every 10 days), focusing on gentle, low-strength exfoliants
• Dry or balanced skin: Once a week, prioritizing hydration and barrier support afterward
• Oily or acne-prone skin: 1–2 times per week, depending on tolerance and the types of exfoliants used

The most important thing is to pay attention to how your skin responds. If you’re noticing redness, increased breakouts, or a feeling of tightness that lingers, it’s a sign to scale back.

Over time, I’ve found that anchoring exfoliation to a weekly ritual—rather than squeezing it in throughout the week—creates the best results. It gives your skin time to recover, rebuild, and actually benefit from the process.

Gentle Exfoliators for Every Skin Type

Medik8

Press and Glow Refill Toner 200ml

$30 at Dermstore

Summer Fridays

Gentle Reset Daily Exfoliating Pads

$42 at Summer Fridays

goop Beauty

Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator 15ml

$42 at goop

The Weekly Body Exfoliation Routine for Smooth Skin

If there’s one habit that’s made the biggest difference in my skin, it’s this: a once-weekly, head-to-toe reset.

Instead of layering exfoliation throughout the week, I save it for Sunday night—a moment to slow down, clear away buildup, and start fresh. It’s less about chasing instant results and more about creating a rhythm that leaves my skin consistently smooth, hydrated, and balanced.

Here’s exactly how I do it:

Step 1: Start With Dry Brushing

Before I step into the shower, I begin with dry brushing—one of the simplest ways to lift away surface buildup and boost circulation.

Using long, gentle strokes toward the heart, I move across the body, focusing on areas that tend to feel a little rough or textured (like the backs of arms and legs). It’s both grounding and energizing—like waking up your skin before the rest of your routine begins.

The goal here isn’t pressure—it’s consistency. A light touch is enough to sweep away dullness and prep the skin for what comes next.

Step 2: Follow With Chemical Exfoliation

Next comes chemical exfoliation, which is where the real smoothing happens.

I’ll use a body peel or exfoliating treatment with ingredients like glycolic or lactic acid to gently dissolve buildup and refine texture. This step goes deeper than anything physical exfoliation can do on its own—helping to unclog pores, prevent ingrown hairs, and even out tone over time.

Think of this as the step that transforms your skin from smooth to noticeably radiant.

Step 3: Shave (If You Choose To)

If shaving is part of your routine, this is the moment to do it.

It’s often overlooked, but shaving is actually a form of physical exfoliation—removing both hair and any remaining surface buildup. Done after exfoliating, it allows for a closer, smoother glide and helps prevent irritation.

And if you’re using self-tanner, this step is key—it creates the most even canvas for application.

Step 4: Cleanse Gently in the Shower

After exfoliating, I keep cleansing simple.

This isn’t the time for anything harsh or overly active—you’ve already done the heavy lifting. A gentle, nourishing cleanser removes any remaining residue while keeping the skin calm and balanced.

I like to take my time here, letting the warm water and steam soften the skin and turn it into more of a ritual than a rushed step.

Step 5: Rehydrate and Restore the Skin Barrier

This might be the most important step of all.

After exfoliation, your skin is more receptive—but also more vulnerable. Replenishing moisture helps restore the skin barrier, lock in hydration, and maintain that smooth, supple feeling long after your routine is over.

I’ll apply a rich body cream or oil while my skin is still slightly damp, taking a few extra minutes to really massage it in. It’s less about efficiency and more about slowing down—letting the routine feel as good as the results.

Body Exfoliation Essentials

Dr. Barbara Sturm

Body Brush

$45 at Dr. Barbara Sturm

Nécessaire

The Body Peel – Resurfacing Serum with 12% AHA/BHA/PHA, 1% Resveratrol + Peeling Peptide

$62 at Sephora

Well Kept

Safety Razor

$72 at goop

kai

Body Glow

$38 at Nordstrom

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The Best Face Exfoliation Routine (Without Irritation)

When it comes to exfoliating your face, more isn’t better—gentler, more intentional is.

The skin on your face is more delicate than your body, which means it responds quickly—not just to the benefits of exfoliation, but to the effects of overdoing it. Where body exfoliation can feel a bit more forgiving, facial exfoliation requires a lighter touch and a little more restraint.

I approach this part of my routine with that in mind: fewer steps, more intention, and a focus on keeping the skin calm, balanced, and supported.

Step 1: Cleanse and Prep the Skin

I always start with a gentle cleanse to remove makeup, oil, and any buildup from the day.

Nothing too active here—you don’t want to stack exfoliating ingredients before you even begin. Instead, this step is about creating a clean, calm canvas so the exfoliation that follows can work more effectively.

Step 2: Dermaplane (Optional)

If I’m doing a full reset, I’ll dermaplane to remove peach fuzz and that top layer of buildup that can make skin look dull.

Cupcea notes that dermaplaning is especially beneficial for dry or rough skin, helping to remove surface buildup so products can absorb more effectively. It’s also ideal for uneven texture—and one of the quickest ways to get that immediate brightness before an event.

“It instantly leaves the skin smoother and more radiant,” she says. “If you have peach fuzz, it helps makeup apply more seamlessly—and it’s a great option before events for that immediate glow.”

That said, it’s not for everyone—those with active acne, highly sensitive or reactive skin, or a compromised barrier may want to skip it, as it can increase irritation.

And if you’ve been on Accutane, she recommends waiting at least 3–6 months—and only proceeding once the skin is fully healed.

Cupcea notes one exception where dermaplaning can be especially helpful: during pregnancy or while nursing, when many exfoliating acids are off-limits. Because it’s entirely topical, it offers a gentle alternative for maintaining smooth, radiant skin.

Step 3: Follow With a Chemical Exfoliant

After dermaplaning (or in place of it), I’ll use a gentle chemical exfoliant—usually glycolic or lactic acid—to refine texture and sweep away anything left behind.

This step is what really creates that even, glassy finish. It works below the surface to smooth, brighten, and support cell turnover in a way that feels gradual, not aggressive.

The key here is to resist the urge to pile on more. One well-formulated exfoliant is enough.

Step 4: Let Your Skin Rest

This is something I’ve learned over time: after exfoliating, your skin doesn’t need more—it needs space.

On nights when I exfoliate, I keep the rest of my routine minimal. Sometimes that means skipping additional actives altogether and letting my skin settle overnight.

By morning, the difference is always noticeable—clearer, smoother, and more even, without that tight or overworked feeling.

Face Exfoliation Essentials

Dieux

Baptism Hydrating + Pore Clarifying Gentle Foaming Gel Cleanser

$34 at Sephora

Dermaflash

Dermaflash Luxe+

$199 at Dermaflash

Shani Darden Skin Care

Lactic Acid AHA Exfoliating Serum

$75 at Sephora

Furtuna Skin

Triple Active Exfoliator

$115 at goop

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Signs You’re Over-Exfoliating (And What to Do Instead)

If your skin isn’t responding the way you expected, exfoliation might not be the solution—it might be the problem.

Over-exfoliating is surprisingly common, especially when you’re layering multiple products or trying to speed up results. But instead of creating that smooth, radiant finish, over-exfoliation can leave your skin feeling compromised and out of balance.

A few signs to watch for:

• Persistent redness or sensitivity
• A tight, dry feeling that doesn’t go away with moisturizer
• Increased breakouts or irritation
• Skin that suddenly feels more reactive than usual
• A shiny, almost “over-polished” look

Cupcea notes that properly exfoliated skin should feel smooth, calm, and even—never tight or irritated.

“When exfoliation is done right, the skin has a healthy glow and products absorb more easily,” she explains. “But with over-exfoliation, you’ll start to see redness, sensitivity, and that tight, shiny feeling that signals the barrier has been compromised.”

The best thing you can do is simplify your routine and give your skin time to recover. Focus on gentle cleansing, deep hydration, and barrier-supporting products while pulling back on exfoliants altogether for a few days (or longer, depending on how your skin feels).

This is also where it helps to reframe your approach: exfoliation isn’t something to push—it’s something to support. When done well, it works with your skin, not against it.

This post was last updated on March 29, 2026, to include new insights.

The post The Best Way to Exfoliate for Smooth, Glowing Skin (Without Overdoing It) appeared first on Camille Styles.

There is nothing quite like a memoir to crack you open. Not in the dramatic, obvious way—but in a slow accumulation that happens when you recognize something true about yourself in someone else’s story. A really good one clarifies something you haven’t found the words for. Until now.

The Best Memoirs by Female Authors Will Shift Your Perspective

We’ve always loved sharing the books that move us, and this list has been a long time coming. These aren’t the memoirs you’ll find on every “must-read” roundup (though a few have earned their moment in the spotlight, here’s looking at you, Strangers). They’re the ones we keep pressing into people’s hands, the ones that stay with you long after the last page, and the ones that made us see marriage, ambition, grief, and the shape of a life a little differently. Whatever you’re carrying right now, one of these will meet you there.

On Love, Marriage, and What We Don’t See Coming

Some of the most clarifying books ever written about love are the ones about its unraveling. But I wouldn’t think of these as cautionary. These three books ask the questions most of us are carrying—and think we’re carrying alone.

Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden

Belle Burden’s 20-year marriage ended without warning during the pandemic: her husband announced he was leaving, offered no explanation, and nearly overnight became a man she didn’t recognize. What follows is a reckoning with the ways women make themselves small inside a marriage, and what happens when one woman decides to stop. Consider it essential reading.

$21 at Amazon

Threshold

Left on Tenth: A Second Chance at Life by Delia Ephron

Ephron had just received a leukemia diagnosis when a man she had briefly dated decades earlier reached out by email after reading one of her essays. What followed was a love story that unfolded in hospital waiting rooms and remission celebrations. Tender, funny, and deeply moving—the rare memoir about late-in-life love that earns every emotion it asks of you.

$10.59 at Amazon

Threshold

Trying by Chloé Caldwell

What begins as a fertility story takes a turn that reshapes everything—including what Caldwell thought she knew about her marriage and her own identity. Spare and wry, this is one of those books that gets harder to put down the more uncomfortable it gets. It rides the line between heartbreaking and funny in a way that feels true to life itself.

$13.54 at Amazon

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On Reinvention and Reclaiming Your Story

These are the books about women who rewrote the narrative—sometimes quietly, sometimes dramatically, always on their own terms. The consistent truth: identity is something you build, not something that happens to you.

Love, Pamela by Pamela Anderson

A radiant, deeply personal account of a woman reclaiming her own narrative—on her own terms, in her own words. Tender, self-aware, and far more moving than you might anticipate (if, unlike me, you haven’t been hungrily devouring her Substack). Easily one of the most memorable books on this list.

$10.32 at Amazon

Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton

Alderton’s memoir of her twenties—the bad dates, the great friendships, the slow work of becoming yourself—reads like a message from your most honest friend. If you haven’t read it yet, consider this your sign.

$9.97 at Amazon

Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten

What looks like a career memoir turns out to be something more interesting: an unusually candid account of a complicated marriage and a series of bold bets that led her to become one of the most beloved figures in American food. Garten writes about luck as something you prepare for, not wait for.

$16.06 at Amazon

More Than Enough by Elaine Welteroth

The second youngest editor-in-chief in Teen Vogue history writes about ambition, race, and what it actually takes to break barriers. This isn’t the polished version, it’s the honest one.

$10.56 at Amazon

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On Inner Life, Grief, and Learning to Rest

Not every book on this list will leave you feeling inspired in the traditional sense. Some will just make you feel less alone in what you’re carrying. I like to think of that as its own kind of nourishment.

Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May

When May’s life came to a sudden halt, she didn’t push through. She wintered. This hybrid memoir weaves her own story with natural history and mythology to make a quiet, radical argument for rest. Not self-help — something richer. One of the most healing reads we know.

$10.29 at Amazon

The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin

Hardin was, by every outward measure, a successful suburban mom — until the opioid addiction she’d hidden for years caught up with her, and she found herself convicted of 32 felonies. Startling in its honesty and unexpectedly redemptive. A book about the gap between the life we show people and the one we’re actually living.

$13.39 at Amazon

A Living Remedy by Nicole Chung

In two years, Chung lost both parents—her father to decades of precarity and a healthcare system that failed him, and then her mother to cancer, just as COVID made the distance between them feel insurmountable. This is a book about grief, yes, but also about the particular guilt of upward mobility in America: what it means to build a different life for yourself while the people you love remain at the margins.

$10.40 at Amazon

Drinking: A Love Story by Carolyn Knapp

An older title and one of the most enduring on this list—recommended by Camille’s mom, who still thinks about it years later. Knapp writes about her relationship with alcohol with a novelist’s precision and an intimacy that makes it feel less like confession and more like a conversation. I think it’s one of the most beautifully written memoirs about addiction ever published.

$9.65 at Amazon

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On Family, History, and the Stories We Inherit

Feeding Ghosts by Tessa Hulls

The 2025 Pulitzer Prize winner for memoir, and unlike anything else on this list. A graphic memoir tracing three generations of Chinese women: Hulls’s grandmother, who survived the Communist revolution, fled to Hong Kong, and poured it all into a memoir—only to unravel in the aftermath; her mother, who inherited that silence and its weight; and Hulls herself, who spent nearly a decade drawing and writing her way toward understanding. If you’ve never read a graphic memoir, start here.

$21.16 at Amazon

The Wildcard

Paris: The Memoir by Paris Hilton

This is a serious reckoning with a life spent performing a persona she created as armor—and the boarding school abuse at the center of it is not what you’d expect. More than a celebrity tell-all, it’s a story about survival and self-invention that earns its place on any list of books about the distance between who the world sees and who you know yourself to be.

$11.02 at Amazon

This post was last updated on May 7, 2026, to include new insights.

The post These Memoirs Made Us Call Our Therapist (We Have No Regrets) appeared first on Camille Styles.

Wellness trends tend to move fast—but every once in a while, a device shows up that makes you pause and wonder: does this actually work? That was my reaction the first time I saw a vibration plate circulating online. The small platform promises everything from improved circulation to muscle activation to lymphatic support—often in just a few minutes a day. It sounds almost too simple.

My curiosity about the lymphatic system started years ago after my first lymphatic drainage massage. I had been recovering from surgery, and my doctor recommended it to support swelling and circulation. I remember walking out feeling lighter, clearer, and surprisingly energized.

The catch? Regular lymphatic treatments aren’t always practical. So when vibration plates started showing up as an at-home alternative—often recommended by lymphatic practitioners themselves—I wanted to understand whether the science actually supports the hype.

To break it down, we spoke with lymphatic expert Sabrina Sweet (aka Miss Lymph) about how vibration plates work, their potential benefits, and how to use them effectively.

Featured image from our interview with Kate Waitzkin by Michelle Nash.

Sabrina Sweet

Sabrina, aka Miss Lymph, is the owner and founder of Miss Lymph Inc, The Miss Lymph Method, and podcast No More Toxic Shit, fostering a culture where everyone can experience the profound benefits of lymphatic drainage physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

What Is a Vibration Plate (and How Does It Work)?

A vibration plate is a wellness and fitness device that uses rapid mechanical vibrations to stimulate muscles and circulation throughout the body.

When you stand or move on the platform, the vibrations create tiny shifts in position that force your muscles to contract and stabilize in response.

“Vibration plates create gentle mechanical stimulation in the body,” Sweet explains. “Those vibrations can help support circulation and lymph flow, especially when paired with movement and deep breathing.”

Originally developed for athletic training and rehabilitation, vibration plates are now used for a variety of wellness goals—from muscle activation and strength training to supporting circulation and promoting recovery.

Because the vibration constantly challenges your balance, your body naturally recruits stabilizing muscles throughout the legs, core, and hips—even during simple movements.

Why Circulation and Lymphatic Flow Matter

To understand why vibration plates are gaining attention in the wellness world, it helps to understand the system they’re often associated with: the lymphatic system.

“Think of the lymphatic system as the body’s drainage network,” says Sweet. “It transports lymph—a fluid containing immune cells and waste products—through your tissues and eventually back into your bloodstream.”

Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a central pump. Instead, it relies on movement, muscle contractions, and breathing to circulate fluid.

When lymph flow slows down, people may notice symptoms like:

• puffiness
• fluid retention
• fatigue
• bloating
• recurring illness

Supporting lymph flow—through movement, breathwork, or manual drainage—can help keep this system working efficiently.

The “Big Six” Areas That Support Lymphatic Flow

In lymphatic drainage, practitioners often refer to the “Big Six”—the key areas where lymph nodes tend to become congested. “The Big Six are the most common areas where lymph tends to get stuck,” Sweet explains.

These areas include:

• neck
• underarms
• abdomen
• groin
• knees
• behind the ears

Stimulating these areas—whether through movement, breathwork, or massage—can help lymph flow more freely throughout the body.

Vibration Plate Benefits

While vibration plates have recently gone viral on social media, the technology behind them—known as whole-body vibration—has actually been studied for decades in fields like sports performance, rehabilitation, and physical therapy.

Clinical research on whole-body vibration suggests that vibration plates may support several aspects of physical health when used alongside movement.

Muscle Activation and Strength

One of the most studied effects of vibration training is its ability to stimulate muscle activation. Because your body is constantly making small adjustments to stay balanced on the vibrating surface, your muscles contract and relax rapidly in response.

Research on whole-body vibration training suggests it may help improve muscle strength and neuromuscular activation, particularly when paired with exercises like squats or lunges.

Improved Balance and Stability

Vibration training may also support improvements in balance and coordination. As the body stabilizes itself against the vibration, the nervous system works to coordinate muscle activity more efficiently.

Several studies have found that whole-body vibration exercises can improve balance control and postural stability, likely because the body continuously adapts to the vibration stimulus and activates stabilizing muscles.

Circulation and Blood Flow

Another commonly discussed benefit of vibration plates is improved circulation. The mechanical vibrations stimulate muscle contractions, which can encourage blood flow—particularly in the lower limbs.

Research has shown that whole-body vibration can increase peripheral blood circulation, which may contribute to the energized feeling many people report after using a vibration plate.

Lymphatic Flow and Recovery

Because the lymphatic system relies on movement and muscle contractions to circulate fluid through the body, vibration may also help support lymphatic flow.

While direct research on lymphatic drainage and vibration plates is still emerging, studies on whole-body vibration suggest that the mechanical stimulation can promote circulation and fluid movement, which may support recovery and reduce swelling in certain contexts.

Sweet notes that vibration plates tend to work best when paired with gentle movement rather than used passively. “The best results come from combining vibration with movement,” she says. “Think squats, gentle lunges, stretches, or even standing with micro-movements while focusing on deep diaphragmatic breathing.”

How to Use a Vibration Plate

Across social media, vibration plates are often shown as a passive wellness tool—people simply standing on the platform and letting the vibrations do the work. But according to Sweet, the biggest benefits tend to come when vibration is paired with gentle movement.

“The best results come from combining vibration with movement,” she says. “Think squats, gentle lunges, stretches, or even standing with micro-movements while focusing on deep diaphragmatic breathing.”

This combination helps stimulate circulation while activating the muscles that support lymph flow throughout the body.

The good news: sessions don’t need to be long to be effective. “I love them because they combine wellness, recovery, and efficiency,” Sweet says. “Just a few minutes a day can make a noticeable difference in swelling, circulation, and energy levels.”

Consistency matters more than duration. Even 10–15 minutes a few times a week can support circulation and recovery when paired with movement and proper hydration.

Simple Vibration Plate Exercises to Start With

If you’re new to vibration plates, start with simple movements that encourage circulation without overloading the body.

Sweet suggests pairing vibration with small, controlled movements such as:

• Gentle squats. Squats activate the large muscles in the legs, which can help stimulate circulation.
• Micro-movements while standing. Small adjustments—like shifting your weight or lightly bending the knees—allow the body to respond to the vibration stimulus.
• Gentle lunges. Slow lunges encourage stability while helping stimulate blood flow.
• Stretching. Using the vibration plate during gentle stretches can help loosen tight muscles and support recovery.

She also emphasizes the role of deep diaphragmatic breathing while using the plate. Because the lymphatic system relies on muscle movement and breath to circulate fluid, breathing deeply can further support lymph flow.

Other Ways to Support the Lymphatic System

A vibration plate can be helpful—but it isn’t the only way to support lymphatic health. According to Sweet, everyday habits can play an important role, including:

• dry brushing
• self-massage techniques
• walking or gentle movement
• staying hydrated

Professional lymphatic drainage treatments can also provide deeper support. “Professional lymphatic drainage is deeper, more precise, and tailored to your body’s unique needs,” Sweet says. “It’s a full-body, results-driven approach that goes beyond what can typically be achieved at home.”

Tools to Support Lymphatic Flow at Home

You don’t need a drawer full of wellness gadgets to support circulation and lymphatic health—but a few thoughtful tools can make the process easier. If you’re curious about vibration plates or looking to enhance your recovery routine, these are a few editor-approved options to explore.

Vibration Plates to Try

If you’re curious about incorporating vibration training into your routine, these platforms are designed to stimulate circulation, activate stabilizing muscles, and support gentle movement exercises.

Lifepro

HexaPlate Lite Vibration Plate

A compact vibration plate designed for quick daily sessions, offering adjustable vibration settings that can support muscle activation, circulation, and gentle recovery movements.

$79.99 at Nordstrom

Merach

CV40 Curved Vibration Plate

This curved vibration platform adds ergonomic support and multiple intensity levels, making it ideal for combining vibration with exercises like squats, lunges, and stretches.

$199.99 at Merach

Tools That Support Lymphatic Drainage

While vibration plates can help stimulate circulation, simple tools like dry brushes and massage devices can also support lymphatic flow by encouraging gentle movement through the tissues.

Tronque

Ionic Dry Brush

Dry brushing before showering can help stimulate circulation and gently exfoliate the skin while encouraging lymphatic flow.

$70 at Tronque

Esker

Lymphatic Drainage Dots

These small adhesive patches are designed to apply light, continuous pressure to lymphatic points, helping support fluid movement and circulation throughout the day.

$28 at Esker

Skin Gym

Lymphatic Drainage Body Massage Tool

A handheld massage tool designed to glide along the body and stimulate lymphatic pathways through gentle pressure and repetitive movement.

$24 at Revolve

HigherDOSE

Microcurrent Body Sculptor Ritual Set

This microcurrent device uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate facial and body muscles, supporting circulation and muscle engagement as part of a recovery routine.

$399 at HigherDOSE

The post The Wellness Device Lymphatic Experts Actually Swear By appeared first on Camille Styles.

So many of my favorite quotes hinge on the energizing, transformative beauty of spring. But Rilke’s words might be my favorite: “It is spring again. The earth is like a child that knows poems by heart.”

I always come back to poetry in moments of wanting—when I’m searching for language that can hold what I’m feeling. And in May, that feeling is unmistakable. The season has fully arrived: longer days, vibrant blooms, and warmer air that draws you out and keeps you there. There’s an alchemy to this time of year. Something shifts. I’m the same person, but I feel newly awake to my life, to my routines, and to all the small things that suddenly feel worth noticing again.

31 Things to Do in May to Welcome the Warmer Season

May, more than any other month, invites us to begin again. And with it comes the perfect opportunity to fill our days with things that feel as good as they are simple. Think of this as your invitation: 31 ways to lean into the season, romanticize your days, and make May feel truly yours.

Step Outside (and Stay Awhile)

May changes how you spend your time. The light lingers, the air softens, and suddenly your evenings stretch a little longer than planned. Even the smallest plans—a walk, a farmer’s market run, a last-minute picnic—start to feel like something more.

1. Plan a backyard garden party. String up lights, set a simple table, and let fresh blooms do the decorating. Start with a few easy outdoor dinner party menu ideas to set the tone.

2. Take a sunrise or sunset hike. Choose one golden hour this week and follow it.

3. Host an outdoor movie night. Blankets, snacks, and a projector are all you need.

4. Organize a neighborhood picnic. Keep it potluck-style and low effort—it’s the easiest way to build community.

5. Try a new water activity. Paddleboard, kayak, or just float (maybe my favorite?). May is your moment to jump in.

6. Play tennis! As a collegiate player, I’ll argue: it’s the best of the racquet sports. (Ping pong is a close second.)

7. Go on a wildflower walk. Bring a basket or a guidebook and make an afternoon of it.

8. Visit your local farmer’s market. Let what you find—strawberries, asparagus, herbs—shape your week’s menu. Make a note of the in-season produce and keep your sights set on filling your basket with exactly that.

Gather, Cook, Celebrate

This time of year lends itself to gathering. Meals move outside, ingredients feel fresher, and hosting becomes something you ease into rather than plan to perfection. A few thoughtful details go a long way.

9. Host a Mother’s Day brunch at home. Keep it simple, seasonal, and a little celebratory.

10. Try a new non-alcoholic drink. Start with NA recipes that feel just as festive as your favorite cocktail.

11. Set a signature Memorial Day table. Keep it relaxed but intentional—linen napkins, something seasonal in a vase, and a menu that feels easy to share. Get all the table-setting inspo you need.

12. Make a spring salad worth craving. Think crisp greens, herbs, something creamy, something crunchy. These are the kinds of salads you’ll come back to all season.

13. Pack a picnic and head to the park. Assign dishes, bring a blanket, and keep it casual.

14. Plan a Friday night al fresco dinner. A few friends, a simple table, and made-for-golden-hour recipes that don’t overcomplicate things.

15. Create a summer dessert board. Fresh fruit and bite-sized sweets are all you need.

16. Host a cookbook dinner club. Pick a book (these are Camille’s favorite cookbooks), assign recipes, and let the inspiration flow.

Refresh Your Space & Style

There’s a natural urge this time of year to shift your surroundings. Windows open, drawers get cleared, and small updates start to change how your home feels day to day. Even a single project can reset the tone.

17. Try a one-week home reset. Focus on one small area each day and let the progress build.

18. Make spring cleaning feel lighter. Set a timer, play music, and keep it moving. Decluttering these six areas of your home makes the task way less intimidating (and so much more joyful).

19. Start a windowsill garden. These are the easiest herbs to grow at home.

20. Build your warm-weather capsule wardrobe. Focus on pieces that feel easy, repeatable, and entirely you. Our style editor shares tips for curating your dream spring closet.

21. Create an outdoor nook. A chair, a throw, and a quiet corner can become your favorite place to just… be.

Focus on Feeling Better

May brings a softer sort of reset. Your energy returns, and it feels like there’s more room to check in with what you actually need. Small shifts tend to stick the most.

22. Spring clean your mind. Clear the mental clutter. This 7-day mental reset can create more clarity, focus, and ease in your day.

23. Start walking outside without your phone. Trust me on this: it’ll quickly become a habit you look forward to.

24. Book a massage or spa treatment—no occasion needed.

25. Refresh your skincare routine for the season. Think lighter layers, more hydration, and daily SPF. Here’s how to get the ultimate glow-up.

26. Begin a morning walk ritual. We all swear by it.

Add a Little Joy

Some things this month are worth doing simply because they sound fun. A new show, a spontaneous plan, a change of scenery… These are small choices that shift your mood in ways you don’t overthink.

27. Start a new show and let yourself fully unwind into it. I’m loving season 2 of Your Friends and Neighbors. If you’re not into watching hours of Jon Hamm and James Marsden—I’m sorry, I can’t relate.

28. Visit a local gallery, pop-up, or art show. I’ve found that one of the simplest joys in life is to put yourself in the path of novelty. You never know what you might uncover or connect with.

29. Plan a Memorial Day weekend getaway. It doesn’t have to be far to feel like a reset.

30. Build your summer playlist. Something you’ll want to play on repeat all season long.

31. Make your summer bucket list. Write it down, return to it often, and see what unfolds. (Hint: revisit your vision board for an idea of what you want more of this season.)

This post was last updated on May 1, 2026, to include new insights.

The post Your May Bucket List: 31 Things to Do for a Fresh Start This Spring appeared first on Camille Styles.

If there’s one thing Italians do best, it’s embracing the simple pleasures of the season—and in summer, that means pastas bursting with sun-ripened flavors that are meant to be savored slowly. This collection of veggie-forward recipes captures the carefree spirit of an Italian estate: juicy burst tomatoes, tender zucchini, creamy lemon-scented ricotta, and market-fresh roasted vegetables that take center stage. They light pasta recipes are unfussy and come together with just a few ingredients—perfect for long lunches or spontaneous dinners at golden hour. Light and satisfying, these are the pastas you’ll have on repeat all summer long.

11 Pastas That Taste Like Summer in Italy

Burst Tomato Pasta

We love how this recipe takes pantry staples and turns them into something that feels instantly vacation-worthy. With juicy cherry tomatoes, briny sun-dried tomatoes, and plenty of basil, it’s a low-lift pasta that captures the best of warm-weather cooking.

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Simple Zucchini Pasta

When zucchini is everywhere, this is exactly how we want to use it. It’s simple, vibrant, and made for twirling up on the patio while pretending you’re somewhere along the Italian coast.

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Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Creamy but never heavy, this pasta strikes the perfect warm-weather balance. The ricotta creates that silky texture, while lemon and greens bring the fresh, summer energy we’re always craving.

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Ratatouille-Style Roasted Vegetable Pasta

We love this recipe for that late-summer moment when the produce drawer is overflowing, and dinner needs to feel simple and satisfying. Everything roasts on one sheet pan, then gets tossed with pasta, parmesan, and basil for an easy bowl that still feels special.

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Blistered Broccolini Pasta with Garlic, Lemon & Toasted Breadcrumbs

This recipe is proof that great pasta doesn’t need a long ingredient list. With blistered broccolini, thinly sliced garlic, bright lemon, and a shower of parmesan, it’s the kind of low-effort dinner that tastes like you did far more than you actually did.

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Roasted Red Pepper Caprese Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is everything we want from an Italian summer lunch: juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a sun-dried tomato dressing that ties it all together. It’s simple, colorful, and made for serving chilled with something sparkling nearby.

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Lemony Spring Pasta Salad with Olives, Artichokes, and Bacon

Equal parts easy lunch and crowd-ready side, this pasta salad does it all. The mix of artichokes, olives, parmesan, and herbs gives it that effortless Italian-inspired flavor we crave as soon as the weather warms up.

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One Pot Parmesan Orzo

Think of this as the lighter, brighter cousin of mac and cheese. Parmesan and cream bring the comfort, while asparagus, peas, kale, and zucchini add color, freshness, and enough substance to make it a full meal.

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Broccoli Pesto Pasta

A bowl of green pasta has never felt so comforting. With parmesan, pine nuts, olive oil, and a little heat from red pepper flakes, this broccoli pesto pasta turns a humble vegetable into something rich, vibrant, and totally family-friendly.

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Rigatoni with Brussels Sprouts & Kale Pesto

This dish proves that a healthy pasta can still feel completely indulgent. It’s loaded with greens and cruciferous veg, but the garlic, parmesan, olive oil, and walnuts make it taste like something you’d order at a cozy neighborhood trattoria.

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One Pot Garlicky Mushroom Pasta with Sausage & Arugula

This one-pot pasta brings all the cozy, savory flavor of sausage and mushroom pizza into a weeknight-friendly bowl. Crispy mushrooms, garlicky Italian sausage, peppery arugula, parmesan, and lemon come together in a light sauce that feels rich without being too heavy.

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This post was last updated on May 26, 2026, to include new insights.

The post Summer Pasta, the Italian Way: 11 Recipes Worth Slowing Down For appeared first on Camille Styles.

Certain dishes subtly steal the show—this is one of them. When I hosted a long, leisurely lunch in my backyard to celebrate Camilla Marcus’ cookbook, everything on the table felt fresh and beautiful. But this salad was the one everyone kept going back for. It’s crisp, a little tangy, a little sweet, layered with texture, and somehow gets more delicious the longer it sits.

The best part? It holds up in the sunshine (no sad, wilted greens here!). You can dress this salad ahead of time and trust it to stay vibrant through a warm afternoon outside. For anyone who loves to host (or just wants something make-ahead friendly), that alone makes it worth bookmarking.

This recipe comes from Camilla’s cookbook, which is filled with thoughtful, ingredient-forward dishes that are elevated and totally doable at home.

Why This Salad Works

Camilla has a way of thinking about food that shifts how you cook—especially when it comes to something as simple as a salad. She says:

“The idea is to get that base to absorb the acid and salt, almost like a quick pickle, and then coat the whole salad with oil at the end, trapping the flavor.”

Once you understand that framework, everything clicks. Instead of tossing ingredients together at the last minute, you’re building layers—letting the vegetables marinate just enough to soak up flavor while keeping that essential crunch. And this one really delivers on that promise.

Here are some of the hard-working ingredients for this fresh salad you’ll enjoy season after season.

• Crisp celery or fennel for that refreshing, high-water base
• Sweet dates to balance the acidity
• Salty blue cheese, shaved thin for richness
• Smoked almonds for depth and crunch
• Preserved lemon + chili brine to wake everything up

It hits every note: crunchy, creamy, bright, a little unexpected—and completely addictive.

An Every-Season Salad For Hosting

I’ve made this a few times since that lunch, and every single time, someone asks for the recipe. It’s unexpected in the best way—simple ingredients, but layered to feel thoughtful and elevated without trying too hard.

Add this salad to any spring or summer menu. It brings that balance of beauty and ease that makes everything feel just a little more special. And once you try it, you’ll see exactly why we couldn’t stop going back for another bite.

The Whole Stalk or Bulb Salad

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• Author: Camilla Marcus
• Yield: 4

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Ingredients

• 2 ounces blue cheese
• 3/4 cup chardonnay vinegar
• 4 dates, pitted and chopped
• 12 ounces celery (4-5 stalks) or fennel (1 bulb), washed and dried
• 1 tablespoon minced preserved lemon
• 1 tablespoon brine from pickled chilis
• Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/2 cup smoked almonds, toasted and chopped
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin avocado oil

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Instructions

1. Prep the blue cheese. Place the blue cheese in the freezer for at least an hour (or overnight) so it’s firm enough to shave.
2. Infuse the vinegar. Bring the vinegar to a boil, then remove from heat. Add the chopped dates, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes to soften slightly. Strain, reserving the liquid.
3. Slice the vegetables. Thinly slice the celery (on a slight bias) or fennel using a mandolin or sharp knife. Save the celery leaves or fennel fronds for garnish. Place the sliced veg in an ice bath to keep it crisp.
4. Marinate. Drain and dry the vegetables, then add to a bowl with the preserved lemon, chili brine, reserved vinegar, and salt. Let sit for 3–5 minutes.
5. Assemble. Scatter the almonds and dates on a serving plate. Pile the marinated vegetables on top, then finish with shaved blue cheese, herbs, a drizzle of avocado oil, and cracked pepper.
   
   

The post A Crunchy Salad to Enjoy in the Sunshine appeared first on Camille Styles.