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How many close friends do you have? Do you see your friends on a regular basis, and how often is that?

I’ve seen a lot in the news and memes lately about friendship –

• the WSJ just had a story about “what sets women’s friendships apart and keeps them strong” [gift link]
• there have been soooo many stories about how men don’t have friends (PBS, NYT [gift link], Guardian)
• my friends and I are constantly sending each other memes about about how difficult it is to schedule nights out… a good friend just sent a FB reel that started “by the time you’re in your 40s, you should have about 2 friends left, who you never have time to see and just send a lot of TikToks.” (I’m assuming I should be flattered that I’m one of the 2 friends?)

In the past, we’ve discussed friendship tiers (close friend vs. acquaintance), how to make friends as you get older, how to make a friend group, how to choose your friends, friendships and politics, and 10 ways to make time for friends if you work a lot.

For my $.02 – I probably have fewer non-family friends at this moment in my life than I have at almost any other moment. It’s hard to schedule get-togethers with the friends who live close, it’s hard to schedule calls with friends who live far. My few friend groups and I have started just having repeating calendar events every 8 weeks — same place, same time — and if it’s we need to change it then we do, but for the most part it’s great just having something booked to schedule around. I’m ok with it as a “season” of life — and assume at some point I’ll start having more time for friends, and that I’ll either have to shore up old friendships or make new friends.

In the meantime, I’m definitely a pebbler with my friends — the basic idea is that by sending news stories, memes, and small tidbits to friends it’s like penguins who leave small pebbles at the feet of their loved ones. (Here’s a Today.com story explaining it better.) I’ve used this technique with mentors over the years to stay on their radar, albeit with more serious news articles, but I have found it a nice, easy way to remind people you exist, you’re thinking of them, you have bonds… I feel like it’s superior to just sending simple “happy birthday!” texts or the like, at least for me.

Readers, how about you — how many close friends do you have? Do you see your friends on a regular basis, and how often is that?

Stock photo via Stencil.

By Xavier Walker

Beauty, for Terry McDonald, has never been surface-level. 

It is a ministry. It is confidence. It is healing. It is the quiet transformation that happens when someone looks in the mirror and recognizes their own power again. 

As the founder and CEO of T McDonald Cosmetics, McDonald has created more than a beauty brand. She has built a movement grounded in faith, wellness, education, and empowerment. Her work speaks to the modern beauty consumer, the emerging artist, the runway model, and the everyday person searching for alignment between who they are and how they show up in the world. 

With more than 13 years in the beauty industry, McDonald’s journey has been shaped by her work as a makeup artist, educator, mentor, and creative force. Her rise has not been defined solely by flawless application or high-performing products, but by the deeper purpose behind them. 

“T McDonald Cosmetics is a clean, vegan and cruelty-free beauty brand created to empower individuals to align their inner and outer beauty,” McDonald shared. 

That philosophy is at the heart of everything she creates. T McDonald Cosmetics was built for beauty that feels intentional. The brand’s clean, vegan, and cruelty-free approach reflects McDonald’s commitment to products that support confidence without compromising values. But beyond formulation, the brand carries a message: beauty should not mask identity; it should help reveal it. 

McDonald’s own story is deeply connected to that mission. Her work is rooted in empowerment, healing, and leading with faith. She understands beauty not only as an art form, but as a personal experience that can restore confidence and help people reconnect with themselves. That perspective has allowed her to create a brand that is both professional and personal, commercial and spiritual, polished and deeply human. 

Her Barbudan and Jamaican heritage also informs her artistry. There is vibrancy in her creative direction, but also discipline. There is culture in her expression, but also universality. McDonald brings a distinctive point of view to beauty, one that honors where she comes from while creating space for others to feel seen, celebrated, and powerful. 

Over the last several years, that vision has made her a sought-after leader for New York Fashion Week productions. As beauty teams become an increasingly important part of runway storytelling, McDonald has proven that strong beauty direction can elevate a designer’s collection, sharpen the visual identity of a show, and strengthen the confidence of the models who bring the garments to life.

Her work with Caribbean Fashion Collective is a clear example of that impact. 

For CFC’s NYFW SS26 showcase, T McDonald Cosmetics served as the exclusive makeup sponsor, with McDonald leading as Head of Hair and Make-Up. The collaboration brought together fashion, culture, beauty, and purpose in a way that felt both intentional and necessary. 

Founded by Xavier Walker, alongside co-founders Norka Vasquez and Stewella Daville, Caribbean Fashion Collective is dedicated to spotlighting designers from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, with a special focus on Caribbean creatives. The platform has become a space where designers can expand their visibility, connect with new audiences, and present their work on a global fashion stage. 

For McDonald, the partnership was more than a sponsorship. It was an alignment of values. 

“I’m honored to partner with Caribbean Fashion Collective for NYFW SS26,” said McDonald. “This collaboration represents the perfect blend of artistry, culture, and purpose. My goal is to elevate each designer’s vision while empowering every model to feel confident and unstoppable on the runway.” 

Backstage, that mission came to life. McDonald and her team worked to ensure that each beauty look supported the designer’s vision without overpowering it. The makeup was not treated as an afterthought; it became part of the storytelling. Each look helped frame the garments, highlight the models, and add cohesion to the overall runway presentation. 

That is where McDonald’s leadership stands out. She understands that runway beauty requires more than talent. It requires preparation, communication, speed, discipline, and sensitivity to the creative vision of each designer. It also requires the ability to lead a team in a high-pressure environment while still creating a space where models and artists feel supported. 

Her presence backstage brought that balance. 

McDonald’s return for Caribbean Fashion Collective’s upcoming September 10 show speaks to the strength of the partnership and the impact of her contribution. Her continued involvement reflects a shared commitment to excellence, cultural representation, and the elevation of designers and models who deserve to be seen on major fashion platforms. 

Norka Vasquez and Stewella Daville, Co-Founders of Caribbean Fashion Collective, previously praised McDonald’s creative leadership and spirit of service. 

“Terry brings a rare combination of creative excellence and genuine passion for uplifting others. Her vision and talent will be a major asset to our designers, models, and the overall production. We couldn’t be more excited to collaborate with her.”

That passion for uplifting others extends far beyond the runway. 

Through T McDonald Cosmetics, McDonald has created pathways for students, emerging makeup artists, and beauty professionals to gain real industry experience. The brand has offered opportunities through production sponsorships, photoshoots, events, and internships, giving rising artists access to spaces where they can learn, grow, and build confidence in their craft. 

As an educator, McDonald offers beauty classes, mentorship, and self-discovery workshops designed to support both technical development and personal growth. Her work with makeup artists and hair stylists is centered on more than skill-building. It is about helping creatives understand their value, refine their voice, and step into professional environments with confidence. 

That commitment matters in an industry where access can often determine opportunity. McDonald is not simply opening doors for herself; she is helping others walk through them. 

T McDonald Cosmetics has continued to expand its presence through beauty expos, makeup events, photoshoots, and fashion productions. The brand has been spotlighted across independent media platforms and publications, including Vogue, while continuing to build recognition for its clean, vegan, and cruelty-free products. 

Still, McDonald’s greatest impact may not be measured only by press placements or runway credits. It can be seen in the artists she mentors, the models she empowers, the students she supports, and the communities that recognize themselves in her work. 

At a time when the beauty industry is evolving, Terry McDonald represents a powerful kind of leadership: one that is rooted in purpose, strengthened by culture, and committed to transformation. 

She is building a brand, but she is also building legacy. 

And with every face touched, every artist guided, and every runway moment elevated, Terry McDonald continues to prove that beauty is not only something we wear. It is something we become.

Step into the perfect marriage of retro-inspired aesthetics and podiatrist-approved comfort with the latest Esska mid heel sandals for women. Renowned for crafting footwear that treats your feet like royalty without ever skimping on style, Esska is the ultimate destination for the modern woman on the move. Featuring their signature chunky, stable mid heels, breathable leather linings, and cushioned footbeds, this collection is designed to take you effortlessly from all-day wedding receptions to warm city strolls. From shimmering metallic statement pieces to rich, luxurious velvet wide-fit variations, these footwear pieces bring an undeniable “super star” charm to your summer closet while keeping your stride completely pain-free.

Cleo Dusty Pink — Shop Now

Celia WIDE Silver — Shop Now

Charlie WIDE Velvet Duck Blue — Shop Now

Charlie WIDE Velvet Dark Green — Shop Now

Charlie WIDE Velvet Aubergine — Shop Now

Flora Red — Shop Now

For any questions/feedback regarding the above mentioned products/brands,
please do contact us anytime by clicking here

Following the fashion and beauty trends that favor clean,  effortless looks , glass skin has become a staple in recent years, seen on the faces of stars like Dua Lipa and Hailey Bieber.

Numéro lists its secret ingredients for achieving a perfect glowy complexion.

Dua Lipa for Augustinus Bader.

A glowing complexion to shine all summer long

While new makeup trends are gaining momentum – from gothic smoky black to ultra-romantic carmine red – the glass skin look seems to be here to stay. On social media, we’re swooning over selfies of stars like Dua Lipa , Hailey Bieber , and Selena Gomez , whose glowing complexions embody an aesthetic in the vein of the clean girl and quiet luxury.

A touch of mascara, a beautiful beige lip, and a rosy blush are all it takes to enhance an already radiant complexion. But this effortless look actually requires a few specific makeup and skincare steps to achieve a glowing face , as if you’ve just stepped out of a spa treatment . Numéro reveals its essentials for perfecting your glowy complexion and radiating all summer long.

Perfecting your glass skin

The Dua skincare range in collaboration with Augustinus Bader

Mixsoon’s Bean Essence

Ilia’s Base Face Milk.

Step 1: Nourish your skin

We’re not revealing any secrets here. To achieve a radiant complexion, you obviously need to deeply nourish your skin to obtain that elasticity, or at least that glowy look . Queen of the no-makeup aesthetic , yet always impeccably made up, Dua Lipa is therefore one of the leading figures of the glass skin trend . Even better: she has a skincare line developed in collaboration with Augustinus Bader – a pioneering brand in skincare and cosmetic innovation .

While we recommend the Ultimate Radiance Complex and the Revitalizing Cream , we couldn’t possibly overlook Mixsoon’s Bean Essence . A firm favorite among our products, this essence has a syrupy texture that’s applied to the face, leaving skin radiant and supple. For oily skin, we recommend Ilia’s Face Milk Base : its fluid, lightweight consistency spreads easily, providing a plumping effect.

Hydro Grip Gel Tint by Milk

Mac SkinFinish highlighter.

Step 2: Perfect your foundation base

The second step obviously concerns the complexion. Say goodbye to thick, difficult-to-apply foundations. Instead, opt for ranges with liquid textures – but still offering decent coverage. Halfway between a foundation and a CC cream, Milk’s Hydro Grip Gel Tint is our favorite.

Its water-rich formula provides easy, hydrating application and, above all, an ultra-glossy finish. It can be applied to small imperfections or all over the skin. To perfect a truly glowy complexion , we suggest mixing it with MAC’s Skin Finish highlighter . Its luminosity blends perfectly with the radiance of the Milk foundation, creating a flawless, glassy skin effect.

Curél’s Intense Hydration Mist.

Rhode’s Glazing Mist.

Step 3: Enhance and shine

Last but not least : mists. Skin is nourished, the complexion is perfect. Finally, let’s talk about mists, as pleasant to use as they are essential for achieving a radiant complexion. After completing your makeup, spritz your face with the Intense Hydration Mist from the Japanese beauty brand Curél . Because, in fact, the secret to long-lasting makeup lies in hydrating the skin.

Its small size also makes it easy to slip into your bag for a quick refresh throughout the day. Finally, a key step in our routine (tested and verified by the Numéro editorial team ), Rhode ‘s Glazing Mist is generously applied all over the face. Like the brand’s founder, Hailey Bieber, it provides a radiant and glowing complexion for several hours. A must-have that perfectly rounds out our list of essentials.

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For any questions/feedback regarding the above mentioned products/brands, please do contact us anytime by clicking here

This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Our daily workwear reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices.

I’ve been seeing a lot of this gorgeous popsicle red color this season and it makes me smile every time. This sleeveless top from M.M. LaFleur looks like a great lightweight option for layering under blazers this summer. The pleating at the neckline gives it a slightly more elevated look than a plain cotton shell and the slightly blousy fit looks breezy and elegant.

The top is $139 at M.M.LaFleur and comes in sizes XS-XXL… but you can use code CORPORETTE15 to bring it down to $118.

Sales of note for 5/26:

• Nordstrom – The Half-Yearly Sale has started! See our roundup here. Good deals on Veronica Beard, Vince, Reiss (esp. coats), as well as Wit & Wisdom and NYDJ
• Ann Taylor – 25% off + 30% off sale items
• Aurate – 25% off with code (ends 5/26)
• Bare Necessities – Up to 40% off, including tons of bra-sized swimwear (also, 10 panties for $10)
• Boden – 15% off new women’s wear styles with code
• Express – Mega Sale, 40% off everything!
• J.Crew – 40% off your purchase and 50% off swim
• J.Crew Factory – Extra 70% off clearance + 50-70% off everything else
• Loft – 50% off one item
• Mango – 30% off everything, and free shipping with $260+
• M.M.LaFleur – Memorial Day Sale, up to 70% off this weekend only! (Try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off)
• M.Gemi – Memorial Day sale, prices up to 60% off
• Nordstrom Rack – Clear the Rack! Nice selection of Vince, Veronica Beard, Reiss and Rag & Bone, a ton of affordable work basics from Calvin Klein and dresses from Maggy London, Eliza J, and Donna Morgan
• Talbots – $29.50 sunny must-haves
• Theory – 25% off sitewide (see our notes here)

Alemais Dress (more sizes here and here) & Scarf, Dior Bag (sold out, similar here), Le Monde Beryl Sandals

Some of my favorite moments on a trip happen in that stretch of time after lunch, when you’re wandering around town. I always love carving out time to pop into local shops, the kind you stumble across without any plan, where you end up finding little treasures to take home and cherish for years to come.

Those days call for their own kind of outfit. Not beachwear, not dinner dressing, but something colorful and pretty to carry you through an hours-long lunch, followed by an afternoon of exploring. My perfect outfit formula: an Alémais dress, or a bright tank with a printed skirt, paired with a raffia bag, beaded sandals, and a scarf tied in my hair.

It’s the kind of outfit a sunlit day calls for. Easy to move around in, full of color and texture that make even a simple afternoon feel like part of the trip.

Why Your Memories Belong on Your Walls

Home decor does more than fill empty space — it shapes the atmosphere of a room and says something real about the people who live there. When personal photos and keepsakes are arranged with care, they stop being clutter and start telling a story. Whether displayed through gallery walls, framed mementos, canvas prints, or layered shelves of meaningful objects, memories can become genuine design elements that make a home feel truly irreplaceable. This guide walks you through the entire process, from choosing the right moments to presenting them in a way that’s both visually cohesive and deeply personal.

Choosing the Memories That Matter Most

Rather than pulling every photo you love, think in terms of stories or themes — “our travels,” “three generations,” or “growing together.” This narrative approach gives a display real purpose and helps you settle on a manageable number of images that represent meaningful chapters of life.

When narrowing your selection, balance emotional resonance with visual quality. A photo can move you deeply and still be too dark or blurry to display effectively. Aim for images that carry feeling and hold up visually — good lighting, a clear subject, and a mix of wide shots, candid moments, and close detail photos. A family reunion wall, for instance, becomes far richer when it includes both the posed group shot and a candid of hands passing a dish or children mid-laugh. If you’re displaying photos of guests or children in shared spaces, it’s also worth considering their comfort and consent.

Matching Memories to the Right Format

The format you choose shapes how a memory is perceived. Traditional frames with photo prints remain a classic, versatile option. For larger focal pieces that feel more like artwork than snapshots, many people turn to Canvas prints to give their favorite images a gallery-style presence on the wall. Fine art matte paper, metal or acrylic prints, and shadow boxes each offer distinct aesthetics and practical tradeoffs — weight, glare, durability, and ease of hanging all vary considerably.

Matching format to memory type matters more than most people realize. Portraits and milestone photos benefit from softer finishes that reduce glare and flatter skin tones. Sweeping travel landscapes tend to shine on larger, minimal-frame or frameless displays. Small sentimental items — a ticket stub, a handwritten letter, a pressed flower — belong in shadow boxes where they can be preserved and seen alongside related photos. Whenever possible, prioritize archival-quality inks and papers, which resist fading far longer than standard prints.

Designing a Cohesive Look

Before selecting images, take a close look at the room itself. Calm spaces like bedrooms call for softer color palettes and serene compositions. High-energy rooms like creative studios can handle bolder, more dynamic pieces. Aligning memory themes with room function helps, too: celebrations and gatherings feel at home in the kitchen or dining room, while a hallway lends itself beautifully to a chronological life timeline.

Visual harmony comes down to a few key principles: converting clashing photos to black-and-white, using consistent frame styles, and pairing one larger focal image with smaller supporting pieces. A gallery wall that combines childhood, travel, and wedding photos can feel surprisingly unified simply through matching black frames and warm undertones.

Practical Layout Ideas

For a gallery wall, start with one “hero” image as an anchor, then build outward with smaller, related moments. Always lay the arrangement on the floor before anything goes up, and use painter’s tape or paper templates on the wall to test spacing without committing to extra holes.

Sometimes, a single large statement piece outperforms a crowded arrangement — particularly above a sofa, bed, or mantel. One oversized image of a meaningful landscape or a candid family moment can function as genuine art in its own right. Viewing distance matters: a piece meant to be seen from across the room should be larger and simpler than one displayed in a reading nook.

Bringing Depth with Objects and Layers

Memory displays gain real dimension when two-dimensional photos are paired with three-dimensional objects. A kitchen shelf might hold framed handwritten family recipes alongside old cooking tools and photographs of shared meals. Shadow boxes can bring together travel souvenirs — maps, small keepsakes, printed tickets — with photos from that same trip.

Leaning frames on shelves rather than hanging everything creates a relaxed, collected feel. Mixing matte and textured surfaces with smooth finishes keeps a display from falling flat. Even a modest collection of memories feels more curated when varied materials and heights are in play.

Preserving Your Memories

Quality materials extend the life of any display. Avoid hanging pieces in direct harsh sunlight or in high-humidity areas without adequate protection. Dust surfaces regularly with a soft, dry cloth, and never spray cleaners directly onto a print or frame.

Equally important: maintain digital backups of every photo you display. Organize files by event or year so future updates stay seamless. After any major milestone — a wedding, a reunion, a significant trip — create a “best of” folder immediately, while the selection process is still fresh. Museum and archival organizations consistently point to proper storage and redundant backups as the foundation of long-term preservation.

Making It Personal

Involve the people who share the space. Let children choose a favorite school or vacation moment. Invite a partner to pick relationship milestones that matter to them. Rotating pieces periodically keeps a display feeling alive and reinforces a shared sense of home. Memory-based decor naturally invites conversation — a travel photo, an heirloom, or a displayed letter gives guests something to ask about and gives you something worth telling. Small handwritten captions near certain pieces — a date, a place, or a brief anecdote — add a layer of intimacy that no purchased art can replicate.

Bringing It All Together

Thoughtful selection, intentional design, and quality materials are what separate a meaningful memory display from a scattered collection of photos. There’s no single correct approach — what matters is that the space genuinely reflects the people in it. Start with one wall or one room, identify the story you want it to tell, and experiment with a single layout before expanding. When memories move from storage boxes and hard drives onto your walls, they stop being distant moments and become a living part of your everyday life.