We always called my Nannie and Pawpaw’s place “the farm.” They had acreage and a house with a detached shop that kept their tractor. They never had animals beyond a outdoor dog, but my Nannie was an amazing gardener, growing the best spinach you’ve ever eaten in your life, juicy tomatoes, and other wonders I’m sure if I could remember back a little further.

So it feels a little weird referring to my own home as a farm, but I like the sound of it and I do have chickens, so what exactly are the qualifiers to call one’s home a farm? A goat or a donkey you say? Ok, well, if you say so…. In my dreams. We aren’t actually permitted to have one of those but if I find one that resembles a dog well enough, all bets are off.

I’ll file these home/farm updates under the HOME category where I put all the posts relating to building, decor, garden, etc (for the few people beyond myself that might go searching for a particular topic). So let’s hop to!

Life with the Chickens

Let’s dive in with the chicken drama. To start, Earl has hit puberty. Our lone remaining rooster who we cuddled and snuggled from birth has a bit on an attitude now that he has hormones rushing through him.

I did my research and learned not to run away, not to physically manhandle him, but to assert my dominance in his space until he learned to give way. I came out fully decked out for our first face off and have gotten a bit more relaxed with it since then. He does seem to respect me more now and isn’t flying at my legs nearly as often, but I don’t love the idea of having a feisty rooster around with kids so I’m really hoping he starts to chill out a bit.

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On one hand, I have to respect that he’s doing his job well. He watches after the ladies, keeps them rounded up, and alerts them when he’s found something good to eat. He doesn’t go out looking for a fight but definitely doesn’t like anyone or anything to get close to his ladies. But I don’t love that the kids are now scared to go in with the chickens.

In other news, one of our Copper Maran girls, Bellatrix, got our farm’s first booty bath. She had dried excrement stuck on her super fluffy booty feathers. We filled up a bin with warm water and had to soak her back end in it while I “shampooed” (with a gentle soap) the feathers until she was all clean. This took about 20 minutes. Then we gave me booty a blow dry so she wouldn’t catch a chill.

Non chicken owners are probably cringing at this. This chicken owner is, too, believe me. I couldn’t get in the shower fast enough.

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The last nugget of chicken drama is that I caught them trying to roost on the wooden ladder toy in the run. I had to teach them to go back in the coop where it’s safest and temperature is best controlled, so I’ve been going out every late afternoon and knocking over their wooden play structure. Since chickens naturally want to roost in the highest place they can find, they’ve been heading back into the coop in the evenings on their own now.

But despite the drama, I love having chickens. I love learning about them, caring for them (usually), and I love the rainbow of eggs they provide us with daily. We have eggs coming out our ears, usually a full 6-8 per day, which means everyone is laying!

In the Garden

Oh this week’s sunshine and 70’s sure had me thinking about plants! Currently in my garden I have cilantro and thyme that have just done their own thing and are thriving. I have carrots I haphazardly planted a few months back. Finley LOVES them and the chickens love the green tops. They are only a few inches long but they’ve been fun. I also have garlic starting to pop up, which is helpful for me to remember exactly where I had planted it.

The big news is that my seeds came in! Am I late to start growing from seed? Maybe. But I’m a very type B gardener and am excited to get them started this weekend.

I planted (ahem, I placed and David actually planted) three new blueberry bushes this week. I also want to get another plum tree and maybe a fig tree, too.

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For the main garden, I need to get some fresh soil or compost (research is yet to be done) and till it all up (best tool ever for easy tilling). I’ll be doing that over the next few weeks and then it will be getting close to garden planting season- ahhh!

Outdoor Projects

In outdoor project updates, the shed is built! It still needs a few finishing touches, like epoxy floor and filling in some spaces to ensure birds don’t get in, but for now it’s functional and so nice to have the storage space.

The sauna is really coming along. David has done an incredible job at building the outer “box,” installing the oiled pine siding, and laying the floors. He is waiting on the company to send him the interior wood cuts to finish it all out, which hopefully will be soon. Our traditional sauna should be up and running just in time for summer! (ha ;))

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Fencing. My new fixation is a fence for our chickens. Right now I’m letting them out to free range for just 1-2 hours at the end of the day. I’d like to let them out more but I worry about predators and them running into neighboring yards (most neighbors don’t mind, but still). I got a quote for a fence for an area for them to forage within boundaries with some tree coverage for hopefully increased protection. Now if I could just get David’s work schedule to chill out a bit so we’d have time to discuss it!

That about sums up the “farm” projects. Now I just need to come up with a fun name for our chickens so I can create a sticker or stamp for the cartons. Hmm… any ideas?

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and that the sun shines brightly for you!

I’ve ordered a lot from Quince over the past few years. Dresses, cashmere, shoes, swimsuits, leather bags, baby items, and activewear. At this point, I feel very qualified to give an honest Quince clothing review.

Quince is an online retailer that sells high-quality clothing, shoes, and accessories at surprisingly low prices. Their mission is to create quality products sustainably and cut out the middleman by selling directly to consumers using a factory-direct model.

I’ve tried a lot. Some pieces are incredible. Some are just okay. A few were definite misses.

Quick Answer: Is Quince Worth It?

After 2+ years of buying, I’ll be honest: I have mixed feelings.

Quince is not a slow-fashion brand built to last a decade. But it is solidly better than Target or Amazon, and the value in certain categories is genuinely hard to beat. The catch? Quality is hit or miss depending on the category.

The sweet spot: If your budget or lifestyle does not allow for $200 jeans or $250 sweaters from brands like Frank & Eileen (hello, young kids!), Quince is a great option. If you like owning something for a few years and then replacing it, rather than investing in forever pieces, you will likely love it.

What Is Quince Clothing?

Quince (also known as One Quince; @onequince is their Instagram handle) is a direct-to-consumer brand selling elevated basics at accessible prices. Think Mongolian cashmere sweaters, Italian leather bags, organic cotton dresses, and Lululemon-comparable leggings at a fraction of the expected price.

Is Quince legit? Yes, absolutely. It’s a real brand with genuinely good quality in several categories. Just go in knowing it is not luxury-tier, and some categories are better than others.

Quince Clothing Review: Everything I’ve Tried

Everything below is organized by category with a YES, MAYBE, or NO verdict and my size listed for each item.

Denim

Stretch High Rise Kick Flare Jeans – YES, Size 2, 26″ inseam

The fit is unbelievable. These remind me of my Madewell jeans in fit and quality, and those cost $100+. Nice stretch, great in the booty. One note: they stretch out after one to two wears, so plan to wash and dry them every few wears. The wash and fit range is not quite as varied as designer denim, but for the price, these are outstanding. I am truly obsessed.

Bella Stretch Relaxed Straight Jeans – YES, Size 2, 26″ inseam

A bestseller for good reason, and I wear these all the time. Like the kick flares, they do stretch out, so you may want to consider sizing down. A great everyday wide-leg option at a very hard-to-argue-with price.

Cashmere

A quick note on Quince cashmere overall: impressive for the price, but compared to higher-end cashmere I own, it feels slightly lighter and less substantial. Think excellent everyday cashmere, not a forever investment piece.

Crewneck & V-Neck Cashmere Sweaters – YES, Size Small

Soft, lightweight, and layers beautifully. I used to spend $100+ on cashmere that looks and feels nearly identical. None of mine have pilled or gotten holes with regular wear. A great layering piece year-round. You can find my other favorite cashmere sweaters here.

Mongolian Cashmere Dolman Sleeve Henley Sweater – YES, Size Small

A 10/10. True to size, not itchy at all. The lightweight feel works well from spring through early fall. One of those sweaters that looks elevated but still feels easy.

Mongolian Cashmere Cropped Crew Cardigan – YES, Size Small

I had been searching for a cardigan like this for a while. Buttons without gapping. It works layered over a tee, worn over the shoulders, or even with dresses. The color works year-round, which I love.

Mongolian Cashmere Gloves – YES

These are as nice as a pair I own that costs nearly $100.

Dresses

Vintage Wash Tencel Button Front Dress – YES

Shockingly flattering for the price. Easy to layer with a denim jacket or light cardigan in spring, or wear on its own as it warms up into summer. Pairs great with loafers or sneakers.

100% Organic Cotton Poplin Smocked Midi Dress – MAYBE

The quality of this dress is very similar to the Ellie Hill House Home dress, but more affordable. (You can read my Hill House dress review here.) Fit is great on top, but I noticed pulling near the hips and had to exchange for a larger size. No pockets, which is a miss. Read the size notes carefully before ordering.

Tops

Organic Stretch Cotton Tailored Sleeveless Shirt – YES, Size Small

Give me anything polo and I love it, this was no exception. It has a bit of stretch, so it drapes nicely and does not feel fussy. There is no gapping, and it lays really well. It is a definite keeper.

100% Organic Cotton Fisherman Boxy Cropped Cardigan – YES, Size Small

I snagged this sweater because I wanted something that could be worn on its own or layered. It’s a yes for me because it gives you a longer shelf life into spring and summer.

100% Organic Cotton Poplin Long Sleeve Boyfriend Shirt – YES, Size Small

This shirt has a slightly lived-in look, which makes it feel less precious than a crisp white shirt. I wear it with jeans, layered over a tank, or even as a pool cover-up. I love pieces that are so versatile, and this one definitely meets the mark.

Stretch Crepe Double-Breasted Blazer – MAYBE, Size XS

This is a solid classic and depending on your body type it might be great for you. For me, it runs slightly long; I wish it came in petite sizing! (Remember I’m only 5’1″, so someone taller might really find this as a win.)

Pants

100% European Linen Pants – YES

The lightweight linen fabric makes them work perfectly in the transitional season months. Pairs great with a t-shirt and sandals for spring, or a chunky sweater moving into colder months.

Stretch Crepe Pleated Shorts – MAYBE, Size 4

These fit well everywhere except the waist, which was just slightly too tight. If you have a smaller waist, you may love them. Otherwise, sizing up might help, though it could make them larger elsewhere.

Stretch Crepe Pleated Wide Leg Pants – MAYBE, Size 4

I experienced the same sizing issue with the pants as I did the shorts. Slightly snug in the waist and a little tight through the hips. I would recommend sizing up one size.

Everyday Fleece Joggers – MAYBE, Size Small

I wanted these to work, but they were also very long on me and heavier than I expected. They feel more fall and winter weight than spring.

Bags

Italian Leather Convertible Crescent Handwoven Shoulder Bag – YES

This bag completely exceeded my expectations! The leather feels high-end, the zippers are sturdy, and the structure holds up well. If you’re looking for an affordable luxury handbag, this is a solid choice.

Activewear

Power-Up High-Rise Training Pocket Legging – YES, Size XS

The leggings have strong compression but still feel buttery soft, and I was very impressed with the quality. They feel more supportive than some of my Amazon pairs. I stopped buying Lululemon because the quality no longer felt worth the price to me, and these feel like a strong alternative.

Power-Up Long Line Strappy Sports Bra – YES, Size XS

I felt like this offered great support without feeling restrictive. I bought two more after getting this one!

Essential Run Tee – MAYBE

The color options and fabric on this very soft and durable. However, it was much longer than I prefer. May work if you’re average height or taller!

Micro Ripstop Mid-Rise Short – MAYBE

These shorts ran much bigger than expected, I’d recommend sizing down or ordering your normal size if you prefer a looser fit.

Shoes

Italian Leather Horsebit Loafer – MAYBE, Size 7, (too big, size down)

The Italian leather feels premium and they look great. Same sizing note: size down if between sizes. Better fit experience than the clogs, but still not a slam dunk.

Water Repellent Suede Clog Mule – NO, Size 7, (too big, size down)

They look well made and are nicer than the Amazon version of the Birkenstock dupes I tried, but I did not find them comfortable. The sizing was off and the fit just did not work for me. Would not repurchase.

Swimwear

Swimwear is one of the trickier categories at Quince. The compression is lighter than I prefer, and sizing varies quite a bit between styles. A couple of wins, but several misses.

Italian Plunge Ribbed One-Piece Swimsuit – YES, Size XS

This was flattering enough for me to keep. It is a little sexy but not too revealing. (The best kind of swimsuit, in my opinion.)

Italian Plunge One-Piece Swimsuit – Maybe, Size XS

I love the color and the wide waistband under the bust on this swimsuit. The straps may work better for someone taller…again, short person problems.

Italian Cami Ribbed One-Piece Swimsuit – NO, Size XS

This wasn’t terrible, but I did return it since it’s not nearly as good as my go-to La Blanca Island Goddess swimsuit. That one is also budget-friendly and much more flattering. (Here are more mom-friendly swimsuits I love.)

Italian Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit – NO, Size XS

This simply did not work for me. The cups were too small, and the body lacked shaping, which made it less flattering.

Italian Cut Out One-Piece Swimsuit – NO, Size XS

This suit ran extremely small compared to the others. I could barely get it on in the same size! Pass for me. Although this is a budget option I think the Left On Friday Peak Suit is well worth the price and a much better fit. You can see my Left on Friday review here.

Baby Essentials

Bamboo Sleep Bag – YES

This is my absolute favorite sleep sack for the boys. It’s softer and cozier than others I’ve tried, and it holds up better in the wash than Kyte sleep sacks. Highly recommend!

The Bamboo Long Sleeve Pant Pajamas Set – NO, Size 12-18 months

So soft and adorable, but they run small and showed wear quickly. I bought them when my baby was 12 months old and the 12-18 month size did not fit. Size up, or skip altogether.(These are my favorite brands for toddler boy clothes!)

European Linen Fitted Crib Sheets – NO

These were a ‘no’ for me since they felt a little rough. I ended up returning them and sticking with my go-to Solly sheets.

FAQs

What Is Quince Clothing?

Quince (also known as One Quince; their Instagram is @onequince) is a direct-to-consumer brand selling elevated basics at accessible prices using a factory-direct model. They carry cashmere, Italian leather, organic cotton, silk, and more.

Is Quince Legit?

Yes. Quince is a real, legitimate brand with genuinely good quality in several categories. It is not hype. Just go in knowing it is not luxury-tier, and some categories are stronger than others.

Is Quince Fast Fashion?

No. Quince uses quality materials like Mongolian cashmere, Italian leather, and organic cotton through a factory-direct model. It is not built for decade-long wear, but it sits well above fast fashion. Think smart middle ground.

Is Quince Good Quality?

The quality is what sold me on Quince. I don’t love shopping at places like Old Navy or Target super often since the quality doesn’t hold up as well as the pricier brands I own. Quince cashmere, denim, leather bags, and baby sleep essentials consistently impress me. Some tailored pieces and swimwear can be inconsistent, but overall the quality is strong for the price.

Does Quince Run True To Size?

Sizing varies by category. Cashmere, jeans and dresses run true to size for me. Trouser pants and shorts run small in the waist. Shoes run slightly large and activewear was inconsistent depending on the piece. For baby clothing, sizing up might be a good idea.

Return Policy

Quince has a hassle-free return policy, which makes trying out different sizes and styles easy. They offer free returns within 365 days, which is a huge plus.

Is Quince Worth It?

For wardrobe staples like cashmere, denim, and leather goods, absolutely. Just pay attention to fit notes in tailored pieces and swimwear.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Quince delivers on its promise of affordable luxury. The cashmere sweaters, jeans, leather bags, and baby sleep sacks are standout purchases. Some categories require more attention to fit, but when you choose wisely, the value is hard to beat.

If $200 jeans or $250 sweaters are not in the budget right now, Quince is a smart, stylish alternative. Just come armed with the sizing tips above and you will do great.

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The post Quince Clothing Review: Honest Take After 2+ Years of Buying appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

Timely nuggets of information and ideas we want to share with you.

These cookies have a huge following. I learned about them from a friend who was kind enough to share one of her Brown Butter Chunk Cookies.  They are soft, chewy, and rich.  The company has over 80 artisan flavors, using only premium ingredients.  They are currently having a 2-for-1 sale for some of their flavors.  $8.50 ($12.50 regularly) for 2 packs.

 

My mother the Grammar Cop constantly corrected me when I was growing up whenever I began a sentence with a conjunction.  I recently read an article that said never beginning a sentence with a conjunction is not a rule.  I was shaken to my core.  Could the Grammar Cop have been wrong?  If you don’t believe me, here is the actual quote used –

“Starting sentences with a conjunction is perfectly OK in a grammatical sense, and it may even improve your writing”.  If you are curious and itching to start your sentences with a conjunction whenever you want, read the in-depth article here.  The author does admit, however, that it’s usually best not to start a sentence with a conjunction, but allowable in certain circumstances.

 

I’m finding that over the past five years, tipping norms have been changing fast and furiously.  I think COVID made all of us reevaluate our tipping to be fairer to those who braved the pandemic to deliver our groceries, pharmacy orders and take out deliveries.  Since then, there has been “tipflation”!

Recent tipping studies done by Bankrate in 2024 show that Americans tip less than I would have expected.  Here are two of the most common tipping situations:

Sit-down restaurants:  Tipping experts say we should tip between 15% – 20%.  Studies show that 60% of Americans tip 15% or less for an average meal, and only 25% of those surveyed report tipping 20% or more.

Take-out deliveries:  According to Bankrate’s survey, only 50% of people who order food delivery directly through restaurants or through apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats, tip their driver.  When I order take-out delivery, I’m so happy that I don’t have to cook, or go pick it up, that I always tip.  Here is a bit of inside knowledge I read about recently.  Delivery drivers can often choose the orders they deliver and can see on the receipt how much the customer has tipped.  Guess which orders get chosen first?

 

Dan Pink is worried about what the years of using tech devices might have done to our attention spans, and he wants to help us fix the problem.  “Life was not made to be lived in 15 second increments”.  Watch this 4.5-minute video and you’ll love him as much as I do.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The post The Friday Bulletin. March 6, 2026 appeared first on Sharp Eye.

Spring is calling, and so are the shorts Team LIY has rounded up that you’ll want to live in all season long! From classic denim to comfy pull-ons and workout-ready styles made for everything from morning walks to weekend errands, these are the shorts that check all the boxes: cute, comfortable, and easy to wear. These are the pairs you’ll be reaching for on repeat all spring and summer long. Cheers to sunshine season!

Peep our Spring break packing inspo lists here!

Denim Shorts

Erin’s Finds [5’4”, Rectangle Shape, S/M or 4/27]

Kut from the Kloth Jane Shorts [size down if in between, wearing in 2]

AVARA Shorts [YELLOW15 for 15% off, true to size, wearing in S] // Gauze Top [true to size, wearing in S]

Aerie Shorts [true to size, wearing in S] // Aerie Cut Off Tee [true to size, wearing in S]

Katy’s Shorts [5’4″, Hourglass Shape, XS/S or 26]

Avara Denim Shorts [true to size, use YELLOW15 for 15% off] // Short sleeve sweater [true to size] // Sandals [true to size]

Jen’s Denim Shorts [5’7″, M or 6/28]

Women’s Mid-Rise Midi Denim Shorts – Wild Fable Medium Wash 4″ inseam [size up one, wearing in 8]

Hannah’s Shorts [5’2″, Pear Shape, size XS/S or 2/4]

Frayed Denim Shorts, 4″ inseam [size down if in between] // Sweater [size down]

Lauren’s Shorts [5’4″, Pear Shape, size M/L or 8/10]

Free People Now or Never Shorts [size up one, wearing in Sunsational] // Striped Tee [oversized, wearing in large would prefer a medium] // Sandals [size up if in between]

Devon’s Shorts [5’8″, Hourglass Shape, S or 2/26]

Denim Shorts [true to size, wearing 26] // Essential Tee [true to size, wearing XS] // Ankle Strap Sandals [true to size] // Starfish Swimsuit [true to size, wearing S] // Thong Sandals [true to size]

Athletic Shorts

Erin’s Finds [5’4”, Rectangle Shape, S/M or 4/27]

Aerie Crossover Flowy Shorts [true to size, wearing in M] // Oversized Sweatshirt [size down, wearing in XS]

Amazon Shorts [true to size, wearing in M]

Jen’s Athletic Shorts [5’7″, M or 6/28]

Mesh Racer Run Mid Rise 4″ Short [true to size, wearing M]

Lauren’s Shorts [5’4″, Pear Shape, size M/L or 8/10]

Shorts [true to size, wearing in large] // Hoodie [oversized, wearing in large, probably could have done medium]

Claire’s Shorts [5’5″, Rectangle Shape, size M or 8]

Shorts [TTS, wearing M] // Top [TTS, wearing M]

Pull On or Tie Waist Shorts

Erin’s Finds [5’4”, Rectangle Shape, S/M or 4/27]

Shell Print Shorts [true to size, wearing in M, code YELLOW15 for 15% off] // Amazon Tank [true to size, wearing in M]

Amazon Shorts [true to size, wearing in M in beige] // U Neck Tank [true to size, wearing in M/L]

Devon’s Shorts [5’8”, Hourglass Shape, S or 2/26]

Casual Floral Shorts [true to size, wearing S] // Sam Edelman Sandals [true to size]

Katy’s Shorts [5’4″, Hourglass Shape, XS/S or 26]

Amazon Boxer Shorts [true to size]

Claire’s Shorts [5’5″, Rectangle Shape, size M or 8]

Shorts [TTS, wearing M] // Top [Size up for relaxed fit] // Similar Sandals

There is a couple in England who is loving.

The husband agrees with his wife absolutely.

No matter what she says!

He’s a yes-man!

Secret of their marriage!

Madalen Duke and Mike Mac ignite pure adrenaline on “I See Red”

The Canadian artist Madalen Duke and producer Mike Mac reunite on “I See Red,” their second collaborative release under the Parasol Music label. The track is part of a Formula 1 campaign currently airing on Apple TV+, and from the very first second, it makes it clear that it was built to move at high speed.

“I See Red” works as a direct surge of adrenaline, opening with an unapologetically bold intro driven by tense synths, a solid electronic foundation, and a steady pulse that echoes the sound of an engine racing down the final straight. Madalen’s voice enters strong, powerful, and controlled, establishing a commanding presence that rides the intensity of the beat.

Madalen Duke, already known for her cinematic sound and placements in productions such as The Old Guard, Shameless, and Assassin’s Creed, maintains that aesthetic here while pushing it into more aggressive territory.

The creative spark for “I See Red” came directly from the production. When Madalen Duke heard the intro sound Mike Mac sent her, she felt an immediate surge of energy, associating it with the color red as a symbol of power and momentum. Rather than overthinking it, she trusted her instinctive reaction and let that emotion guide the lyrics, embracing a songwriting philosophy centered on feeling and intuition.

According to Mike, the collaboration flows naturally, with most of their writing sessions happening over FaceTime and Madalen recording her vocals independently. “I See Red” was developed and finished within hours, fueled by their shared love for high-impact electronic production and the idea of triggering an instant shift into another zone. He sees the track as the start of much more music to come from the duo.

The song comes from pure impulse, the feeling of pressing a button and activating another version of yourself. It places you at the edge, heart racing, eyes fixed on the finish line.

“I See Red” also reinforces Parasol Music’s identity as a label dedicated to music created for visual media. This is a song that is not only heard but also seen. It carries the structure of a campaign, a trailer, and an extreme competition sequence. That quality makes it effective within the Formula 1 context while also standing firmly as a strong single within both artists’ catalogs.

With “I See Red,” Madalen Duke and Mike Mac not only confirm that they work seamlessly as a creative duo but also elevate their partnership to a new level. While their version of “Don’t Cha” carried a bold aesthetic, this single solidifies their sound with authority. The production and vocal performance sustain tension until the very last second. “I See Red” arrives fast, hits hard, and makes it clear that both artists know exactly which buttons to push to ignite the engine.

CONNECT WITH MADALEN DUKE: SPOTIFY | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

CONNECT WITH MIKE MAC: SPOTIFY | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE

 

The post PREMEIRE: ADRENALINE MODE: MADALEN DUKE AND MIKE MAC UNLEASH “I SEE RED” appeared first on LADYGUNN.

Photographer: Kayla Varley @kaylavarley

Talent: Wyatt @ Freedom @wyatteliza

Styling: Kait Lusk @kaitlusk

Hair: Jordan Alex Hurst @_jordanalex

Makeup: Francesca Martin @francescamartin.makeup

Lighting Assistant: Eugenio Ruiz @eu_ginoo

2nd Assistant: Dane Peterson @d_peto

Tabitha Andelin top & bottom @tabithaandelin Karo Koru earrings @karo_koru

Karo Koru earrings @karo_koru Tabitha Andelin vest @tabithaandelin Lunatic Femme top @lunatic_femme Helene Galwas pant @helenegalwas_official

The post CHERRY BEAMS appeared first on LADYGUNN.

Last month, when I read Rachel Hochhauser’s Lady Tremaine — a reimagining of Cinderella from the perspective of her stepmother — I was blown away. In the novel, Lady Tremaine pulled herself out of poverty as a teenager; but now, middle-aged, twice-widowed and back in debt, she needs to find her two daughters secure marriages before they end up on the streets.… Read more

The post Will Lady Tremaine Be the Biggest Book of 2026? appeared first on Cup of Jo.

Last month, when I read Rachel Hochhauser’s Lady Tremaine — a reimagining of Cinderella from the perspective of her stepmother — I was blown away. In the novel, Lady Tremaine pulled herself out of poverty as a teenager; but now, middle-aged, twice-widowed and back in debt, she needs to find her two daughters secure marriages before they end up on the streets.… Read more

The post Will Lady Tremaine Be the Biggest Book of 2026? appeared first on Cup of Jo.

I honestly hated self-tanner until two years ago. The smell always bothered me, I never knew how to apply it without getting streaks, and I felt like the color was unnatural on my skin tone. That is, until I found a self-tanner that actually worked. Trust me, finding the perfect self-tanner can feel like a never-ending search. Whether you want a subtle glow or a deep bronze, the best self-tanner depends on your skin type, tone, and of course, personal preferences.

In this guide, I’m ranking the top self-tanners based on ease of use, color payoff, and scent, so you can achieve a flawless tan without the hassle. I even show you how to apply self-tanner towards the bottom! Read on if you want the full scoop, but if you want my #1 overall pick right off the bat, it’s Coco & Eve Tanning Foam in the Dark color. If you buy from Coco & Eve directly, use code TERILYN15 for 15% off your order. Or you can order Coco & Eve from Amazon. An honorable mention goes to St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse for the best express tan since it’s fast, natural-looking, and doesn’t smell as it develops.

Okay, onto the rest of the post!

The Best Self Tanners (Ranked by Ease, Color & Smell)

Best Mousse for a Natural Color: Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam

Coco & Eve’s Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam is my favorite best tanning foam for a natural-looking tan. It applies really easily with a mitt (this set comes with one) and blends smoothly without streaks. I love that it contains vitamin C and E since it keeps my skin hydrated. I’m super picky when it comes to scents, but this one actually smells like tropical mango and guava fragrance, so no typical self-tanner smell.

While it does take 6-8 hours to develop, I can usually apply it in the morning, wear it under my regular clothes, and then shower at night to rinse it off so I don’t get any transfer onto my sheets.

If you buy from Coco & Eve directly, use code TERILYN15 for 15% off your order. Or you can order Coco & Eve from Amazon. Here’s a short video I filmed with some self-tanner application tips for this specific foam.

Here’s my overall “grade” for Coco & Eve.

• Ease of Use: A- (tends to deposit more color on my knees and ankles than I want, even with super cautious application)
• Color Payoff: A- (lasts about 4 days before it starts to fade)
• Scent: B+ (I wish it were scentless, but it’s not horrible.)

Pros:

• Natural golden-brown tan with no orange hue
• Streak-free application with a mitt – the mitt is key. Buy this set that comes with a mitt. (If you don’t buy a set, you can use code TERILYN15.)
• Hydrating ingredients (hyaluronic acid & coconut water)
• Pleasant-ish tropical scent

Cons:

• Develops over 6–8 hours, so you do have to wear it all day or all night before showering.
• Slightly pricier than drugstore options

Here’s a photo I snapped last spring after I had applied the tanner. So good, right?

Best Non-Toxic Self Tanner: Beauty By Earth Self Tanner Mousse

If you’re looking for a clean, non-toxic self-tanner with a lightweight, easy-to-apply formula, Beauty By Earth’s Self Tanner Mousse is a great choice. I used this when I was pregnant! This mousse formula gives you a streak-free tan that develops into a natural-looking bronze. It’s made with organic aloe vera, coconut oil, and cranberry extract, and I found it pretty hydrating. Plus, it’s free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and parabens. If a non-toxic option is essential to you, this is my top pick (I also have my favorite non-toxic suntan lotions in this blog post).

Here’s my overall grade for Beauty By Earth Self Tanner:

• Ease of Use: A- (I found it a little harder to blend than other brands.)
• Color Payoff: B- (The color isn’t as deep as Coco & Eve.)
• Scent: A (It’s the best smelling of the bunch in this post)

Pros:

• Non-toxic self tanning lotion, organic ingredients
• Lightweight mousse formula for even application
• No synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals
• Hydrating with aloe vera and coconut oil
• Streak-free finish

Cons:

• Develops over several hours, so plan to wear loose clothing for the day or change your sheets after sleeping in it.
• Requires a mitt for best application (buy this set so it comes with a mitt).

Best Self Tanning Spray for Face: Coco & Eve Antioxidant Face Tanning Micromist

Coco & Eve’s face mist is a game-changer if you want an effortless face tan. I used to just buff the remainder of my tanning foam around my face, but this is much better. The mist is super fine and gives an even application that develops over a few hours. I especially appreciate that it’s infused with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to keep my skin hydrated and glowy, and it works perfectly underneath makeup.

Use code TERILYN15 if you order from Coco & Eve. You can also buy the Coco & Eve Face Mist on Amazon. I shared a video on LTK where I tried this for the first time so you can get an idea of the application.

• Ease of Use: A- (It mists beautifully like any other non-tanning face mist, but I have to be mindful to make sure my neck and decolletage somewhat match!)
• Color Payoff: B- (It’s not quite as dark as the foam that I use on my body)
• Scent: A+ (Mild and doesn’t linger)

Pros:

• Easy spray application
• Lightweight formula that won’t clog pores
• Hydrating with hyaluronic acid and dragon fruit extract
• Develops within a few hours

Cons:

• Not as buildable as drops or serums

Honorable Mention: Salty Face Tanning Water

The Salty Face Tanning Water is another excellent choice for a customizable face tan, but it’s more gradual, as you can see in the photos below. It’s actually one of the top-rated self-tanners for fair skin (which I mentioned below).

Best for a Deep Color: Lux Unfiltered N°36 Supernatural Self-Tanning Mousse in Blood Orange

If you want a truly deep tan, try Lux Unfiltered’s N°36 Supernatural Self-Tanning Mousse in Blood Orange. This mousse provides a deep, bronzed color while maintaining a natural finish. I used it for a while before switching to Coco & Eve for a slightly lighter tan.

Here’s my overall grade for the Lux Unfiltered N°36 Supernatural Self-Tanning Mousse:

• Ease of Use: B- (It’s dark so you have to be careful when applying since mistakes are more prominent.)
• Color Payoff: A+ (Truly stunning color that’s natural without a hint of orange.)
• Scent: A- (Smells pleasant but lingers.)

Pros:

• Deep, long-lasting tan
• Vegan and cruelty-free formula
• Hydrating with shea butter and hyaluronic acid

Cons:

• Stronger scent than other options
• Requires more care with the application since it’s a deeper tan. Definitely buy a mitt (that one is cheap and is my favorite one I have!).

Best Tanning Mist: Tan Luxe The Water

Tan Luxe The Water is a top pick for a lightweight, no-mess application. This is a clear tanning mist, or tanning water, that provides a glow without the risk of staining clothes or sheets (LOVE that). It’s packed with hydrating ingredients and gives a gradual, buildable tan. Since the mist is clear, though, you have to be careful not to spray too much in one spot since you won’t be able to see where it goes.

It’s easy to spray, for the most part, and I like that I can mist my back, but the included mitt is slippery and hard to control. It’s also hard to use when you have to switch hands to apply to your non-dominant arm. While I love that it’s super lightweight, has a nice scent, and it’s somewhat easy to spritz onto my own back, the color payoff is pretty limited.

Here’s my overall grade for the Tan Luxe The Water:

• Ease of Use: C (It’s easy to spray, for the most part, and I like that I can mist my back, but the included mitt is slippery and hard to control. The oil is super messy and got on my rug, so beware.)
• Color Payoff: C (Color is very minimal but natural-looking!)
• Scent: A+ (Smells great going on.)

Pros:

• Lightweight, clear formula
• No transfer onto clothes
• Smells nice

Cons:

• Difficult to use the bottle with your non-dominant hand when spraying your dominant arm
• Also requires careful application since you can’t see where the product is going
• Limited color payoff

Best Express Self Tanner: St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse

I recently tried the St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse, and it quickly became a top favorite. The texture is lightweight, it blends beautifully with a mitt, and the color is a natural, olive-toned bronze. It’s never streaky and not overly orange.

I love that it’s an express tan since I hate sitting in tanner all day, and if you need a nice wash of color before family photos, a big date night, or a wedding weekend, you may not have the entire day to let a fake tan develop. It’s worth noting that I noticed the color got a little darker after 12 hours, which I honestly like! I also love the pleasant scent.

Here’s my overall grade for the St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse:

• Ease of Use: A (This blends the easiest of any brand and didn’t leave any lines the next day.)
• Color Payoff: B+ (The color isn’t as deep as Coco & Eve, but, to be fair, it’s an express tan. But the color itself was beautifully natural without zero orange tones.)
• Scent: A+ (Smells great going on, then fades, unlike most self-tanners that get smellier over time.)

Pros:

• Reliable, streak-free finish
• Express tan – develops in 1-3 hours
• Natural-looking color (not orange)
• Long-lasting fade
• Pleasant scent

Cons:

• Pricey
• Color isn’t as deep as other express options

If you’re new to self-tanning or just want something you can trust every single time, this is my top recommended self-tanner.

Self Tanner to Skip: Isle of Paradise

I’ve tried Isle of Paradise, both the drops and the foam, and I hated them. The formula didn’t work well for me. It was either too streaky or too patchy, and the smell wasn’t great. The foam formula leaked everywhere, too. Definitely not a repurchase for me!

Self Tanner Application Tips

Here is a short video with tips for applying self-tanner evenly, but the key takeaways are:

• Exfoliate your body before applying the tan. I like this Primally Pure body exfoliator.
• Always use a mitt.
• Start with two pumps and rub all over.
• Sweep down on hands.
• Use whatever is left over on your mitt for the back and front of your knee.
• Gentle sweep down on your feet.
• Wear something dark and lightweight like these wide-leg pants from Amazon while your tan develops.

What Is the Best Self Tanner for Fair Skin?

If you have fair skin, the wrong self-tanner can leave you looking orange or patchy. The best options develop into a natural shade without an orange hue. Mousse or foam formulas work well for fair skin because they allow for even application. To prevent dryness and streaks, look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, Aloe vera, and shea butter. My top recommendations would be the Salty Face Tanning Water or the Coco & Eve mousse in the medium shade (I use the shade Dark, and I have light/medium skin).

Final Thoughts

The best self-tanner for you depends on your skin type, desired depth of color, and application preference. Whether you love a mousse, mist, oil, or drops, these top-rated picks will give you a natural, streak-free glow. Always prep your skin with exfoliation and moisturization before applying self-tanner, and use a mitt or brush for a flawless blend.

Best Self-Tanning Products Recap:

• Best for fair skin: Salty Face Tanning Water
• Best non-toxic: Beauty By Earth Self Tanner
• Best face tanner: Coco & Eve Face Mist (use code TeriLyn15)
• Best deep tan: Lux Unfiltered N°36 Supernatural Self-Tanning Mousse
• Best body mist: Tan Luxe The Water
• Best express tan: St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse

Which self-tanner is your go-to? Let me know in the comments!

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