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CNN
01-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
I'm strict about skin care. Here are 10 of my favorite essentials from Credo's rare sale
For those who prefer smaller brands or more tailored shopping experiences than mega retailers in the beauty and skin care space, consider buying from the cruelty-free beauty brand, Credo. It takes clean beauty seriously and vets its products for safety, has strict sustainable packaging guidelines for its partners, analyzes the treatment of folks in the supply chain to ensure ethical practices and lastly, monitors its impact on the planet. As someone who has dealt with acne since my tween years, finding products that agree with my skin has been no easy feat. I've often avoided wearing makeup because of my hormonal flareups and dry patches, but after coming across cleaner options from Ilia, Tower 28 and Nécessaire, I've learned how to feel more confident in my skin. Luckily, Credo is hosting its Friends of Credo Sale, marking its entire site down by 20% through May 4. Many of the picks below have been in my current lineup for years, and I've thrown in a few extra deals on beauty gadgets, body products and sunscreens that I'm adding to cart ahead of summer. Tower 28 LipSoftie Hydrating Tinted Lip Treatment Balm I once resorted to mixing my trusty Aquaphor with a lip tint. After getting my hands on the Red Bean Mochi shade, I haven't touched my other lip products in months, and my lips stay hydrated sans a white film. The AAPI-founded brand also happens to make a ton of other editor-favorite beauty products. Ilia Multi-Stick No matter the season it is, I like to keep a few different shades of the Multi-Stick to wear on my eyelids, cheeks and lips. Its bronzy In The City color is my go-to summer pigment, while Whisper is my everyday favorite for flushed-looking cheeks. Nécessaire The Body Wash in Hinoki Usually, I'm a drugstore truther when it comes to body washes. I like to find a cheaper alternative, or at least something with a similar scent. When it comes to Nécessaire, this Hinoki wash is one-of-a-kind, and I always stock up when it's marked down. DedCool Fragrance 01 Taunt My first introduction to DedCool's genderless fragrances was in laundry detergent form. I was gifted Dedtergent 01 and quickly became obsessed with fresh clothing out of the dryer smelling of its bergamot and vanilla. Now the skin scent is down to a sweet $72 in its full 1.7-ounce size. Grown Alchemist Polishing Exfoliator Say goodbye to dead skin with this underrated body exfoliator that makes arms, legs and more feel soft. It's gentle enough to use daily and is great to have on hand for helping achieve close shaves and streak-free sunless tans. Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Complexion Drops This lightweight tinted moisturizer helps even out skin tones and improves skin texture with firming tsubaki oil and brightening ginseng. An alternative to high-coverage foundations, its sheer, hydrating formula is great for no-makeup makeup looks. Kinfield Sunglow SPF 35 Luminizing Sunscreen SPF should be regularly stocked in your vanity, but if you've been lacking, this shimmery face sunscreen from Kinfield is down to $22. It gives off a subtle post-beach glow and even doubles as a highlighter. Doré Le Glaçon Facial Ice Roller Ice rolling is something I've incorporated into my routine as a way to relax and feel more grounded in my body. This tool from Doré helps calm skin, increases blood flow and reduces puffiness. The matte handle is easy to hold, and I love that the head is created from high-quality stainless steel. Olio E Osso Tinted Balm One of my favorite places in the country is Portland, Oregon, and after finding out its multipurpose balms were born there, I brought a few back on my last trip from the store, Frances May. They're perfect for gifting, and I've given one to my lip balm-obsessed mom in the past. Gen See Arch Support Brow Powder Gel As someone who takes pride in her brows, I haven't been one to stray away from Glossier's pomade-like brow formula. Gen See's ethically made formulas were enough to make me switch. It feathers brows for a long-lasting full effect without leaving a crunchy deals on editor-favorite products can be hard to come by, especially when trying to intentionally seek out sustainable or ethically produced items. If you're trying to revamp your routine or want to be a more conscious consumer, now is your chance. The beauty industry produces a large amount of waste from excess packaging, not recycling materials and contributing to microplastic pollution. Because of this, making small steps like swapping out your moisturizer, sunscreen and the like can help the planet and the others impacted by unsustainable practices in the supply chain. Our deals team has over a decade of combined commerce journalism experience. Rikka Altland, Jacqueline Saguin and Elena Matarazzo source the deals for the day each morning to curate one-offs and retailer-specific roundups of the best sales to shop. Searching everything from coveted tech essentials to beauty finds of the week, the team works across a wide variety of categories to ensure we're finding the best buys for our readers.
Forbes
01-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
38 Female-Founded AAPI Brands You Should Know
May is Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) month, but AAPI-founded brands deserve recognition year-round. The month of May is dedicated to celebrating Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPI), but the history and contributions of this vast community deserve celebration year-round. While reported AAPI-targeted hate crimes have declined since the pandemic, research shows the anti-Asian sentiment still lingers. Donating to organizations such as Stop AAPI Hate, AAPI Women Lead, KACF and Asian Americans Advancing Justice is one way to help support the AAPI community. Another is to be mindful of where you shop. Out of 507 CEOs of 500 leading U.S. companies, only three are Asian women. With more AAPI-owned brands to shop than ever, you don't have to go out of your way to support the AAPI community. But despite the rise of AAPI-owned businesses, AAPI women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions. In the United States, one in 96 men hold a manager or leadership role while one in 124 women hold the top position. Out of 507 CEOs of 500 leading U.S. companies, only three are Asian women. Globally, women control an estimated $20 trillion in annual consumer spending, yet few are represented in top leadership roles. When it comes to shopping for the latest skincare, fashion or pantry staples, 85% of consumer purchases in the U.S. are made by women. Globally, women control an estimated $20 trillion in annual consumer spending. Having women in leadership positions in which they control product design helps ensure the interests and needs of female consumers are met. Having women involved in product design is crucial to ensuring female consumers' needs and interests are met. So this month, we're highlighting the female-founded brands who not only honor their AAPI heritage but are carving a path for other aspiring female entrepreneurs to follow suit. From the latest K-Beauty innovations to modern twists on family recipes; Ayurvedic skincare rituals to porcelain tea sets—together, these brands represent the diversity, rich history and future of the AAPI community. The Sill founder Eliza Blank. When Eliza Blank's mom migrated to Massachusetts from the Philippines, houseplants helped her feel connected to her native country during the long winters. 'That connection to plants and nature became a quiet but powerful part of my upbringing,' says Blank. 'When I started The Sill at 26—around the same age my mom was when she came to the U.S.—I found myself drawing inspiration from her all over again.' Since its humble roots from a bootstrapped business operated from a borrowed desk in Chinatown, the plant delivery service has grown tremendously. In 2023, The Sill surpassed $50 million in gross online sales, delivering over 1 million houseplants Sill's offerings have expanded to include everything from patio plants to low light houseplants; decorative flowers to fruit trees. 'In a way, The Sill is a reflection of both where I come from and where I want to grow,' says Blank. Elix founder Lulu Ge. When Lulu Ge experienced debilitating symptoms such as cramps, headaches, fatigue and insomnia from getting off birth control, she found the only solution that worked was Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). So she created a digital platform that blends TCM with modern science and clinical studies, to deliver personalized care and herbal treatments for chronic conditions, beginning with hormone health. Recognizing that one size doesn't fit all, Elix offers users personalized consultations and questionnaires to determine the most appropriate formula. Having supported over 500,000 menstrual cycles since launching in March, Elix claims to be one of the fastest growing start-ups in the TCM wellness space. Sundays' founder Amy Ling Lin. Growing up in China and living in the United States taught Amy Ling Lin the beauty of individuality. So she created a nail salon studio and accompanying professional nail polish line to promote the message, 'you're beautiful as you are.' Built on the belief that no one should have to sacrifice their health for beauty all Sundays polishes are non-toxic and the colors are designed to make clients feel safe, confident and seen. 'I still remember how hard it was navigating the world when English wasn't my first language,' says Lin. 'That's why we use numbers instead of polish names—to make communication in salons easier and more inclusive for everyone, especially for immigrant nail specialists like the ones I've worked with and learned from.' You can find the professional line of long-lasting polishes online and used in five salon locations in Manhattan. Superegg founder Erica Choi. From a facial cream made from egg whites in 600 B.C. China to a Korean ritual of mixing eggs with liquor as a complexion treatment for jade-like skin during the Joseon Dynasty—eggs have long been a revered ingredient in Asian beauty rituals. Born in Busan, Korea and raised in New Jersey, Superegg founder Erica Choi was nicknamed 'egg' for the shape of her face. As an adult practicing as a licensed esthetician, Choi became aware of the animal welfare and environmental issues associated with traditional egg-based skincare, and was inspired to create her own plant-based line in 2020. Recognizing the nutrients held in each component of the egg—the yolk, the white and shell membrane—Superegg replicates the egg's capabilities in vegan form with nourishing ingredients like moringa oil and plant stem cells. With products like the hand-lip duo called 'Seoulmate,' face-hand duo called 'New Yolker' and a hand cream packaged in a duru pouch—a traditional Korean item used for carrying small items attached to the waist—the New York-based line is distinctly Korean American. Brooklyn Delhi founder Chitra Agrawal. When Chitra Agrawal began blogging about her Indian family recipes from her apartment in Brooklyn over a decade ago, she never imagined she would one day have products beloved by celebrities such as Mindy Kaling and Lilly Singh. From the blog, Chitra began hosting pop-up dinners and cooking classes around New York City, eventually publishing her own cookbook, Vibrant India: Fresh Vegetarian Recipes from Bangalore to Brooklyn. In 2014, she launched Brooklyn Delhi with her husband, a food packaging designer, to bring Indian sauces, condiments and ready-to-eat meals into the homes of more Americans. Eleven years later, she has exceeded her mission, as you can find Brooklyn Delhi across the country in major retailers like Whole Foods and Target. From coconut curry sauce to spicy mango chutney, Agrawal is making it easy to bring a taste of India into the kitchen. BONBONWHIMS founder Claire Ngai. Growing up in Hong Kong, some of Claire Ngai's earliest memories consist of playing with kitschy kawaii toys, instilling in her a whimsy that would later influence her creations as a jewellery designer. When communities of color were disproportionally affected by the pandemic, Ngai started BONBONWHIMS in 2021 to raise money for various BIPOC charities. In the four years since, the Y2K-inspired jewellery line has taken off, with pieces spotted on celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Megan Thee Stallion and Michelle Zauner, including Ngai's own role models. 'Our playful pieces had been spotted on so many trail-blazing AAPI figures who I look up to, from Bowen Yang and Ashley Park to Olivia Rodrigo and Olympic Gold Medalist Snowboarder Chloe Kim,' says Ngai.' Yumday founder Lia Ballentine. 'As a Filipina immigrant who grew up in the American South, food has always been a powerful way for me to stay connected to my culture and heritage,' says Lia Ballentine. 'But just as importantly, I use food as a way to share my culture with others—and to learn about theirs.' Recognizing food as a gateway or bridge motivated Ballentine to create a subscription service snack box that contains women- and BIPOC-led food and beverage brands. A reference to the Tagalog phrase 'sarap ng buhay,' which translates to 'life is tasty' or 'life is good,' Yumday is a celebration of the flavors and foodways of different cultures. From the logo depicting the rays of the sun of the Filipino flag to the brand colors inspired by Ballentine's favorite Filipino dessert—halo-halo—the founder says the brand is a love letter to her roots and a way to keep that connection alive. From green banana flour crackers to popped waterlily seeds—the build-your-own-snack box is a fun way to try new foods from different cultures or gift them to others. AIREM Essentials founder Dr. Eunice Park. When Dr. Eunice Park immigrated to Queens, New York from Korea at the age of eight, she didn't speak English. An elementary school teacher took her under her wing, and after introducing Park to the story of the first female doctor Elizabeth Blackwell, Park was determined to pursue a career in medicine. Today, her dreams have become a reality—Dr. Park is a dual-board certified facial plastic surgeon and the founder of the first clinical K-beauty-inspired medical spa in the country, AIREM Aesthetic Spa & Plastic Surgery. Her product line AIREM Essentials combines her advanced medical expertise and clinical research to replicate or complement the treatment-experience at home. 'As a facial plastic surgeon, it was important to create a line with advanced formulations with clinically studied ingredients to truly enhance overall skin health as a standalone product or coupled with aesthetic treatments,' says Dr. Park. Some of their standouts include the vitamin C serum for brightening and sun protection, the pearl essence bio cellulose sheet masks and the lunamide ceramide serum for a dewy glow. VERLOOP founder Ella Lim. Growing up alongside her mom working in their family factory in the Philippines, Ella Lim noticed how much extra yarn was leftover after production. After pursuing a career in marketing and product design in New York City, she returned to the Philippines to join her family business and started VERLOOP, a fashion line made from deadstock material. The limited quantities of various deadstock yarn keeps Lim creative, as she develops new ways to either mix multiple yarns together or create patterns with frequent color changes, while not producing excess waste in the production process. The ribbed slippers are seamlessly knit so no material is cut away after knitting while poms are made on a special machine that allows them to shape the balls with minimal trimming. Gimme Seaweed founder Annie Chun. An homage to the seaweed snacks of Annie Chun's childhood growing up in Korea, this seaweed brand is redefining what an American snack can be. Building on the success of her previous brand, Annie Chun, the entrepreneur turned her attention to seaweed to create the first organic, non-GMO seaweed snacks in the United States. A reference to the Korean word 'gim,' which means 'seaweed,' Gimme Seaweed sources seaweed from regenerative aquaculture producers off the coast of South Korea. The result is a nutrient-rich, light snack available in eight flavors, found in major retailers across the country, including Whole Foods Market and Target. The brand has been such a success, the Korean government recently honored Chun's contributions to Korean seafood exports and the seaweed industry. Phème Paris founder Jessy Chu. After the birth of her first child, Jessy Chu found herself deeply depressed and in need of a change. So she transitioned from her career as a writer to instead channel her creative energy into designing clothes. Chu infuses her Chinese heritage into every collection—whether through the prints, silhouettes or fabric choices. 'Both Shinto and Daoist philosophies speak to the belief that everything carries a spirit, and you can see this woven into our prints—from tree branches, ink-painting textures, and xuan paper grain, to peonies, my favorite flower, which are known as the 'king of flowers' in Chinese culture and symbolize beautiful, confident women in classical poetry.' An off-the-shoulder striped knit dress depicts the concept of yin and yang through the interplay of fine and thicker lines and color-blocking, while a short embroidered velvet jacket draws from Hanfu, a traditional Chinese silhouette dating back thousands of years. Blume founder Karen Danudjaja. Working a fast-paced job in commercial real estate, Karen Danudjaja found the sugary, caffeinated drinks she relied on for energy were taking a toll on her digestion, sleep and hormones. Recalling the use of turmeric as a natural remedy in her South Asian household as a child, Danudjaja had the idea to create latte mixes that could deliver sustained energy without the crash. Coinciding with a boom in functional beverages, since Blume's creation in 2017, the brand has expanded into more than 6,000 stores in North America. While Danudjaja still loves their signature turmeric latte, the line now includes gut-nourishing hydration mixes and several others blends made with ingredients targeting specific needs, such as lavender for sleep and beetroot for energy. Marble Lotus founder Soni Mehra. Former tech product manager and Indian American entrepreneur, Soni Mehra started her own home décor brand in 2022 to bring elegant South Asian design into the homes of Americans. The company works directly with artisans across India to source furniture, artwork and home accessories that celebrate South Asian culture. In addition to the décor line, Mehra and her team offer design services to help clients create spaces that reflect their own heritage. Dumpling Daughter founder Nadia Liu Spellman. Growing up with the home cooking of a celebrity chef Sally Ling—who opened Boston's first fine-dining Chinese restaurant in the 1980s which was frequented by celebrities like Julia Child and Yo-Yo Ma—Nadia Liu Spellman has always had a fondness for dumplings. Despite her family's fine dining expertise, her warmest memories are of rushing home after school for her mother's warm dumplings. Determined to share the culture of eating dumplings with more people, Spellman opened Dumpling Daughter as a brick-and-mortar shop in 2014. Over a decade later, Spellman's family recipes can be found in multiple restaurants, her cookbook, and in over 1,000 grocery stores across the country. Her line of frozen dumpling, buns and sauces can be ordered online too, making it easy to add comforting Chinese fare to your weekly rotation. Ponyflo founder Minsun Yoo. 'Growing up in Korea, during the summer months, we would slather sunscreen on our faces until we appeared ghostly white, wear mesh long sleeves for trips to the grocery store, and at the beach, it was common to see people fully covered as if preparing to surf, even if they were merely sunbathing,' explains Minsun Yoo. When Yoo moved to the U.S., she was shocked to see people lounging in the sun without face protection. As an industrial designer, Yoo's applied her problem-solving skills to her own frustration with the lack of athletic hats that offered enough coverage without running her hair. So she created a wide brimmed hat with a seamless back opening for breathability and crease-free hair. Since launching Ponyflo has expanded beyond their signature sunblocker to sell a wide variety of hats, including straw hats, ballcaps, bucket hats and beanies. Poi Dog founder Kiki Aranita. A pidgin term for mixed breed or mutt, 'poi dog' celebrates the diversity of cultures that make up Hawaiian food. Ingredients from China, Japan, Korea and the Philippines appeared on the sugar plantations where chef Kiki Aranita's grandparents and great grandparents lived and worked. In 2020, chef Aranita created her own line of Hawaiian sauces to pay homage to her heritage with labels reminiscent of the traditional palaka shirts her grandmother sold when she worked at the plantation store in Waipahu. From the 'chili peppah water,' best drizzled on poke bowls, to the 'guava katsu sauce,' an umami-rich, fruit sauce inspired by Japanese BBQ—chef Aranita's creations celebrate the creations of the AAPI diaspora. Christine Alcalay founder. Raised by an immigrant seamstress in the heart of New York City's garment district, Christine Alcalay learned from a young age that creating with your hands is an act of love and intention. Growing up between two cultures—Vietnamese and Americans—Alcalay says it's in this in-between space where she finds her resilience, resourcefulness and instinct to solve problems with creativity. It's this aptitude that contributes to her namesake fashion brand's success. With two boutiques in New York City, Alcalay is known for her modern suiting and silk organza pieces, and versatile pieces that celebrate womanhood. 'My Vietnamese heritage lives in everything I do—it shapes the way I see color, move through the world, and bring ideas to life,' says Alcalay. 'The thread of memory, culture, and soul is woven into every piece I design and every business decision I make—my heritage is my grounding force, and drifting from it simply isn't an option.' Fly By Jing founder Jing Gao. The chef that arguably put chili crisp on the map, Jing Gao was inspired by her upbringing in Chengdu, China to bring a modern spin on traditional Chinese cuisine into American kitchens. Her line of Sichuan pantry staples made with real ingredients has grown over the years to include instant noodles and several brand collaborations such as Irvins chili crisp potato chips, Fishwife Sichuan chili crisp smoked salmon and a hot sauce that appeared on Hot Ones. You can find the James Beard award-winning chef's creations in major grocers like Whole Foods Market, and in her cookbook, The Book of Sichuan Chili Crisp. Recreational Habits founder Jackie Skye Muller. Growing up playing golf with her Korean dad, Jackie Skye Muller was shocked when she moved to the East Coast and found herself one of the few minority faces on the golf course. 'Culturally too—I really felt out of place at the older prestigious country clubs that were filled with older white men with unfriendly glares,' Muller says. 'I knew I belonged on the golf course, in the country club, in the barns and on the court, but this experience made me question that. Witnessing the cultural barriers that historically plague club sports, Muller was inspired to create her own athletic fashion brand to create opportunities for people of color to experience the joy of recreational sports and the style associated with it. Raised in Dallas, Texas and educated in New York City, the former women's director of KITH and associate fashion director of Barneys New York combines her country and urban perspectives to give traditionally preppy pieces a chic edge. Oddball founder Sophie Cheng. Splitting her childhood between Hong Kong and Singapore, Sophie Cheng has fond memories of snacking on jelly desserts made from agar-agar. 'Growing up in Asia, there were options for people who wanted something to snack on that didn't include dairy or gluten,' says Cheng. 'When I came to the U.S., I noticed that option was missing, so I decided to create my own.' Made without gelatin, carrageenan, added sugars or preservatives, the new line of jelly snacks is the first JELL-O alternative of its kind in the United States. With four fruity flavors—made from real fruit and plants—the ready-to-eat snacks are bringing a taste of Asia into the American grocery aisle. NOTTE founder Jessica Tse. Jewellery designer Jessica Tse says her childhood growing up in Hong Kong continues to influence the pieces she designs for her accessory brand Notte. 'I was obsessed with small trinkets, cute stationery and manga, being able to explore all these elements so early on really shaped my love for finding small whimsical details and playfulness in everyday life,' Tse tells Forbes. The Chinese American founder's whimsy is evident in her colorful, imaginative jewellery, which are designed to spark joy. It's no wonder her pieces have been seen on numerous celebrities, such as Bella Hadid, Olivia Rodrigo and Megan Thee Stallion. Wildwonder founder Rosa Li. When Rosa Li was a child, she founder comfort in the healing herbal tonics her Chinese grandmother brewed for her. As an investor-turned-food entrepreneur, she saw an opportunity to incorporate Eastern herbal remedies into American wellness routines and created her own line of sparkling beverage. Amidst a booming functional beverage market, Li launched a beverage line inspired by her own Chinese culture in which 'functional' beverages have been used to cure ailments for centuries. She combines botanicals from her childhood, such as ginger, turmeric and lemon balm, with prebiotics and probiotics for a refreshing, gut-friendly soda. Li not only uplifts her own culture but others too, donating five percent of profits to marginalized communities. The Woobles founder Justine Tiu. Inspired by the anime she watched growing up, Justine Tiu channeled her creativity into a line of easy crochet kits. 'The Woobles exists because I did the straight-edge thing most Asian immigrant parents want for their kids—good school to good college to good job at a famous company with a good 401k, climbing the ladder super fast—but I was deeply unhappy and realized it's because that wasn't my definition of success,' says Tiu. The founder says she took the concept of amigurumi, a Japanese style of crochet and blended it with Western ideals of cuteness and kawaii, to offer cute kits that make crocheting easy. 'It's not actually about crochet,' says Tiu. 'It's about reminding yourself that you can take on whatever comes your way.' Ro'Table founder Roshan Adam-Holslag. From impromptu gatherings to organizing high-profile events for influential figures, hosting has always been a central part of Roshan Adam-Holslag's Indo-Persian upbringing in Britain. Hoping to foster meaningful connections, Adam-Holslag's dreamy line of tableware is made by artisans with natural materials and is a reflection of her worldly travels and Indian roots. Hints of her upbringing appear in all her collections, but most notably in her Shimla Social collection, a contemporary reimagining of early 19th century India. 'Each piece in the Shimla Social range is a tapestry of heritage—where the delicate English flora meets the vibrant, spirited hues of the tropical Indian fauna," says Adam-Holslag. Dream Tea NYC founder Anney Norton. During the pandemic, Anney Norton found herself frustrated with the lack of tea varieties in the grocery store. Under lockdown, Norton began experimenting in her kitchen to make her own tea, and the idea for her own tea brand—Dream Tea NYC—was born. It wasn't the first time Norton had found success in the kitchen. Born in Shanghai, Anney Norton moved to New York City as a teenager to study at Parsons, the New School of Design and shortly after graduating, founded A Cuter Cupcake company that was an instant hit collaborating with with esteemed brands like Prada, Miu Miu, SoulCycle, and Saks Fifth Avenue. With Dream Tea NYC, Norton hopes to innovate the tea category by offering consumers the flexibility to create their own custom tea blends, made with USDA organic ingredients, packaged in fun and imaginative canisters. SVNR founder Christina Tung. 'Growing up as a second generation Chinese-American, our household was very cognizant of waste, every piece of clothing was mended or reworked and never tossed,' says Christina Tung. Her environmental consciousness coupled with witnessing her mom's business savviness as an entrepreneur influenced her to create her own line of earrings made from found materials, inspired by her travels around the world. Since launching in 2018, SVNR has expanded to sell a wide range of accessories, all made from upcycled materials with as little waste as possible. MìLà founder Jennifer Liao. Raised by her Chinese immigrant parents in Dallas, Texas, Jennifer Liao recalls being bullied for her race and embarrassed of her homemade lunch in the school cafeteria. As she grew older, she learned to appreciate her Chinese heritage, and founded a line of Chinese dumplings and noodles with her husband as a way to connect with her family's history. What began in 2018 as a brick-and-mortar shop in Bellevue, Washington has grown into a nationwide, direct-to-consumer brand, available at major retailers like Target, Walmart, Kroger and Whole Foods. From frozen soup dumplings to braised beef noodles to umami scallion ginger oil, everything is inspired by and pays homage to the co-founder's Chinese roots. 'This little piece of Chinese America is our way of showing our friends, family, and the vast Asian American diaspora that there is a definitive place for us here in the States,' says Liao. Wanderlust + Co. founder Jenn Low. Born in Malaysia, Jenn Low's jewellery line is based in Kuala Lumpur and designed by women for women. Made sustainably and sold in over 150 countries around the world, the diverse collection reflects Jenn's upbringing as a Malaysian woman and her current experience raising two young kids, with designs that aim to empower women through meaningful mantras and providing opportunities for self-expression. Since launching in 2010, the brand has been seen on Chrissy Teigen, Bella Hadid, Jessica Alba and more. Kahuku Farms founder Kylie Matsuda-Lum. With a farming history spanning four generations on Oahu's North Shore, this over-a-century-old family farm continues to honor Hawaiian ingredients while giving back to the island. With 90% of the team from the local community and partnerships with local organizations to raise awareness about farming and sustainability, Kahuku Farms is dedicated to ensuring the wellbeing of Hawaii. Founder Kylie Matsuda-Lum never thought she'd return to the farm after college, but it's turned into her pride and joy, 'All of our decisions are rooted in our culture with our family, team and community in mind.' From liliko'I jelly to Hawaiian vanilla macadamia nut coffee to bean-to-bar chocolate—all their products are made on the farm and a celebration of Hawaii. Moonbow founders Heather and Felice Chan. When twin sisters Heather and Felice Chan developed skin and gut issues after moving to the United States from Hong Kong, they grew frustrated with the lack of holistic skincare options in their new home. They were so impressed with the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) techniques their mom used, that they decided to create their own skincare line to share TCM with others. Inspired by the centuries-old Chinese medicine theory of yin and yang, and the 530 herbs in TCM, Moonbow's three signature products aim to address the root causes of skin problems with traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients like wild chrysanthemum, an herb traditionally used to reduce inflammation. Maile Footwear founder MMaile Schmidt. Growing up between Hawaii and Japan, Maile Schmidt's childhood memories are filled with tropical landscapes and bustling cityscapes. These two environments provide the inspiration for her collection of her line of footwear handcrafted by Italian artisans. 'The collection is feminine, romantic and a contemporary interpretation of the beloved 90's kitten heels,' says Maile. Since launching in 2023, the brand has caught the attention of influential millennials and Gen Zers alike, worn by Olivia Rodrigo, Priyanka Chopra and Alix Earle. SHWETAMBARI founder Rohit Khosla. A childhood visit to the atelier of renowned Indian fashion designer Rohit Khosla planted the seed of inspiration for Shwetambari Mody. At 17, she left India to study fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City and after completing her MBA in Paris, she returned to New York to create her own label, SHWETAMBARI, in 2020. Today, the designer lives between Mumbai and New York, but the bright colors, intricate patterns and storied traditions of her native country continuing to inspire her designs. The emerging brand has been spotted on Jenna Ortega, Kate McKinnon and Jennifer Nettles but as a RTW collection, you don't have to be a celebrity to shop the label. LANATIV founder Megan Eng. A play on 'L.A. native,' LANATIV was created by second generation Chinese-American Megan Eng who grew up in Los Angeles. Eng was inspired to create the line after witnessing how the sun in L.A. was affecting women's skin—from premature fine lines to sun spots to allergic skin reactions. She drew on her Chinese roots to create formulas with botanicals, minerals and clays used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, using western techniques she learned as a clinically trained pharmacist. Recognizing the severe drought conditions in California, LANATIV products are 100% waterless, and are made by-hand in California without any fillers, fragrances or synthetic ingredients. Kara Yoo founder. Raised by Korean immigrant parents who migrated to Canada in the late 1970s, Korean culture and language influenced Kara Yoo from a young age. Today, she honors her heritage with her namesake fashion label, 'I connect to my roots by reflecting on childhood memories and exploring cultural symbolism to incorporate into new collections. Their signature lunar collection was inspired by conversations Yoo had with family members about the significance of the zodiac animals in understanding one's personality. 'From a young age, my sisters and I knew which animals we were, and now my nieces and nephews wear theirs as necklaces,' Yoo says. Symbolism is found throughout the label, such as the sam ring which depicts the Korean taeguk symbol representing the harmony of yin and yang. Their upcoming FW25 collection will introduce a sculptural gourd shape as a contemporary reimagining of the gourd, which symbolizes protection, good fortune and health in Korean culture. Wanderlands founder Jane Ko. Drawing flavor inspiration from the memories she has of eating in her home country of Taiwan and her mother's cooking, Jane Ko created a line of trail mixes designed to transport you to another place. With over 20 years of experience working for esteemed brands like Kellogg, Ko applies the umami characteristics of Asian cuisine to crafting inventive mixes made with Asian ingredients like yuzu, shiitake mushrooms and lapsang souchong. The result is a nourishing snack that is as much an olfactory journey as it is a punch of flavors. Sahajan founder Lisa Mattam. Lisa Mattam inherited Ayurvedic wisdom from her parents, who were raised in Kerala, a southern state of India at the heart of Ayurvedic medicine. 'They grew up seamlessly incorporating Ayurveda—its practices and ingredients—into their lives and passed that learning onto me,' says Mattamm. So she combined the Ayurvedic science of her heritage with her experience working in pharmaceuticals to create her own line of clean skincare. Sahajan works with Ayurvedic doctors in Kerala to develop their formulations, and continues to consult with Ayurvedic practitioners throughout the formulation process. Jasmine Chong founder. Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Jasmine Chong observed her mother making dresses on a black 1950s sewing machine. She would later pursue her early design inspiration by moving to the United States and studying fashion at Parsons School for Design. After working in the design rooms of renowned designers like Anna Sui and Tory Burch, Chong launched her own label in 2016. Since then, the brand has been worn by celebrities like Kristen Stewart, Ali Wong, Quinta Brunson and K-pop star Chaelin CL. In 2020, Chong was named one of 12 designers on Making The Cut with Heidi Klum and Naomi Campbell. Despite her global success, it's the greenery and tropical motifs of her native Malaysia that continue to inspire her designs, with asymmetrical cuts and draped silhouettes and ruffles that evoke florals, and accessories inspired by the Malaysian pomelo (grapefruit). Feather & Bone founder Shubhangini Prakash. When a commercial face wash left Shubhangini Prakash's skin inflamed at age 12, she turned to her mother's simply Indian remedy. The results stuck with her through to adulthood, when she had her own baby and turned to a traditional Indian baby powder recipe of chickpea flour and neem powder. An adaptation of that recipe made with neem powder, arrowroot starch and colloidal oat, is one of several products in her line of plant-based, waterless products. From face wash beads inspired by an Ayurvedic practice once reserved for royal courts to hair oil made with the Indian oils of hibiscus, cedarwood and castor oil—everything is an homage to Prakash's heritage. It wasn't just the skin rituals of her upbringing that inspired Prakash, but also the teachings of Ayurveda on balance and harmony. 'In Ayurveda it is important to live in harmony with the world, this is why we are plant-based,' explains Prakash. 'We are taking the energy from Mother Earth, and when it goes back it is going back as is, respecting our planet and others who live in it.' It's for this reason, Feather & Bone plants a tree with every order.
CNN
07-04-2025
- Business
- CNN
The best sales to shop this week: Apple, Dagne Dover, Casper and more
This week, you'll find a deal on a top-tested Apple iPad, a discounted Casper mattress and savings at Dagne Dover. All that and more below. Dagne Dover Spring Sale Known for its sleek travel backpacks, toiletry kits and duffel bags made of neoprene, Dagne Dover adds a stylish touch to commutes. Many Underscored staffers have been fans of the AAPI-founded brand for years, and if you've yet to try one for yourself, now's the time. Until April 10, stock up on bestsellers for as much as 50% off. Read our review Espro P3 French Press A French press is a reliable caffeine source if your taste buds favor rich, robust flavors. Start your mornings on the best foot with our top-tested pick, the Espro P3. It checks off many boxes, including a nearly foolproof design, a great-tasting coffee output and an affordable price tag. Amazon just sweetened the latter pro by knocking 10% off when you clip the on-page coupon. Apple iPad (10th Gen) While Amazon's Big Spring Sale came and went, our deals editors caught some rare deals topping some of those discounts. Underscored's best iPad pick, the 10th-generation, just dropped $29 below its spring Prime Day pricing. We typically recommend the tablet at its full price for its fast performance and great value, so today's discount gives all the more reason to snag. Philips Sonicare Power Flosser & Toothbrush System 7000, HX3921/40 This Philips Sonicare system is the total package. According to our experts, it comes with all the bells and whistles, including a water flosser and an electric toothbrush. If you've been eyeing an opportunity to upgrade your oral care routine for less, let this price drop from Amazon convince you. It just went on sale for the first time, meaning you can spruce up your pearly whites for less. Casper Birthday Sale It's Casper's birthday, and there's no better way to celebrate than with a sitewide sale. Take up to 30% off everything at the mattress-in-a-box brand. That includes the Snow models, which our pros appreciated for effectively keeping hot sleepers cool. These deals are better than the last sale offered by Casper. Shopbop Spring Style Event Need a wardrobe refresh? Through April 10, you can shop one of the retailer's most significant sales of the year. Clare V., Staud, Sandy Liang and many other beloved clothing brands are up to 25% off with code STYLE. Dyson V11 Our former best cordless stick vacuum pick is $100 off at Best Buy. During Underscored's testing, it tackled debris-ridden carpets, pet hair and more. It has an impressive 60-minute runtime and comes with added accessories like a crevice tool for hard-to-reach places. Lowe's SpringFest If you're just starting to clean up your yard, no need to fret. Lowe's SpringFest is live until April 16, with major deals on plush patio furniture, grills and more. From on-sale GE dishwashers to Kohler toilets, you can outfit your home's interior as well. Samsonite For those who missed Samsonite's luggage sale in January, now is your time to shine. Its entire collection of bestsellers is up to 30% off to celebrate the spring travel season. Our editors are obsessed with the brand's Freeform Carry-On Spinner, which is down to $140. Adidas Trainers for the gym, loungewear and everyday kicks are up to 40% off at Adidas. Its popular slides, coveted Ultraboost sneakers and exclusive clothing collabs are a few of the items we're shopping at an additional 20% off with code SCORE. Foreo Luna 3 When your skin needs a deeper clean, put the Foreo Luna 3 to work. The vibrating skin care device can help gently lift dirt, oil and sweat — perfect for a post-workout scrub. This cleansing tool is now 55% off at Nordstrom Rack. Albany Park Spring Forward Sale Albany Park has previously impressed Underscored editors with its couches in a box, and now the entire catalog is on sale for spring. For up to 35% off, shop fluffy cloud couches and colorful sectionals at the best prices of the year. Calphalon Calphalon is starting the week by marking down tons of cookware, bakeware and appliances. Its latest sale is taking up to 35% off the runner-up to our editors' pick for the best nonstick pans and more. The North Face Jester Backpack The world-renowned rock climber Alex Honnold trusts a backpack from The North Face to store his gear. This similar Jester backpack from the brand is seeing a steep 41% discount at Amazon and Zappos. Ring Camera Spring Sale After testing 11 of the most popular smart cameras, our editors nominated Ring as the maker of the best indoor home security camera on a budget. The newest Ring Indoor Cam, alongside other smart security offerings from the brand, is now up to 45% off at Amazon. Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex in Mocha Silver We're big fans of the Shark FlexStyle here at Underscored, and we trust it to tame our tresses. Now the brand's SpeedStyle Pro Flex, made for bouncy blowouts and professional-grade styling, is down to an all-time low price at Amazon. This model is meant for all hair types, has four attachments and touts a newly improved folding handle for easier our review Oura Ring Gen3 Heritage in Silver The more rugged version of the Oura Ring is matching its lowest price at Amazon. It's convenient for those looking to ditch wearable wrist fitness trackers in favor of something sleeker. It offers impressive health tracking in its easy-to-use app. Pro tip: Add it to your current ring stack for a streamlined our review Yana Sleep Overhaul your sleep routine with 20% off Yana Sleep's entire line of products until April 30. Our editors loved cozying up with the brand's body pillow and thought it helped them find the best sleep position during testing. Now it's down to $160 with this rare spring sale. Hoka, Brooks and more Prepare for your next long run or sweat session with a new pair of discounted kicks from some of our favorite brands. That's right, editor-approved trainers (and some recovery slides) from Hoka, Brooks, Saucony and more are up to 71% off at Nordstrom Rack throughout the weekend. Weber Spirit E310 Liquid Propane Gas Grill Spring is officially here and we couldn't be happier. Grilling season is right around the corner, and we want to ensure you have everything you need for your next gathering. Luckily, Weber's impressive gas grill is down by $100 as the first discount we've tracked this year. SwitchBot K10+ Pro Robot Vacuum and Stick Vacuum Combo We typically know SwitchBot for its Underscored-approved smart home upgrades. Now the brand released a versatile robot vacuum and stick vac combo that's seeing a $400 discount to celebrate its recent launch. The deals editors at Underscored look out for your wallet on the daily, scouring sales at the top of every morning. We tap a range of techniques and consider a variety of factors to determine whether a deal is worthy of coverage, such as price history checks, available coupon codes and competitor pricing. Our team, consisting of senior editor Rikka Altland, editor Jacqueline Saguin and associate editor Elena Matarazzo, is passionate about unearthing deals that we ourselves would be tempted to shop, and we enjoy finding a great deal on a coveted item (especially one that's a top-tested by our experts) because it means that we're helping our readers make savvy buying decisions.
