Latest news with #LATimesStudios
Los Angeles Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
MILLY Makes Its Bridal Debut with High Style and Affordable Price Tags
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. Contemporary fashion brand MILLY is entering the bridal space with the debut of its first-ever Bridal Capsule Collection. Known for its polished yet playful designs, the brand brings its signature modern femininity to wedding wardrobes, offering versatile pieces that blend timeless elegance with fresh, contemporary styling. The collection includes sleek satin gowns, delicately beaded dresses, ethereal lace, and fashion-forward separates. True to MILLY's DNA, each silhouette is crafted using Parisian-inspired techniques, but with an unmistakably New York edge. The result is a curated wardrobe fit for every bridal moment, from the ceremony and reception to the rehearsal dinner or honeymoon send-off. 'This launch felt like a natural evolution,' says Betsy Ferraro, Division President at S. Rothschild. 'Our customers already look to MILLY for life's big milestones. Now, we're bringing that same spirit of confidence and style to their wedding day.' With every piece priced under $1,000, the Bridal Capsule Collection makes luxury more accessible than ever. Shoppers can find the full line online as well as select retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's, and Revolve. Founded in 2000 in New York City, MILLY blends the polish of Parisian design with downtown Manhattan energy. Celebrated for bold prints, sophisticated tailoring, and vibrant color, the brand creates pieces for confident women navigating every part of modern life. Click here for more information on MILLY
Los Angeles Times
4 days ago
- Los Angeles Times
Skincare Minis That Are TSA-Friendly and Ready for Summer Travel
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. Whether you're beach-bound, touching down in a muggy city, or navigating the arid cabin air of a red-eye flight, one thing's for certain: your skin knows you're traveling. As the surge in searches for 'vacation skincare,' 'skincare for plane travel,' and 'TSA-friendly skincare sets' shows, travelers are becoming more intentional about how they pack their beauty routines. That means prioritizing skincare minis that are both space-saving and effective, products that work across time zones and climates, without sacrificing results. It's a shift that skincare founder Tata Harper, known for her focus on high-performance natural ingredients, has been watching closely. 'Travel skincare used to mean compromising your routine,' she says. 'Now it's about smart, strategic edits that meet your skin's needs wherever you are.' Climate matters. Hot, humid destinations can overwhelm your skin's barrier, while recycled airplane air and high altitudes zap it of hydration. Pollution in urban environments also throws another wrench into your glow-up plans. In short, travel impacts your skin differently depending on where you land. 'Beach travel should be about simplicity,' Harper's team advises. 'Focus on hydration, sun protection, repair, and exfoliation of dead skin cells.' In tropical conditions, gel-based moisturizers, antioxidant-rich serums, and soothing post-sun treatments are more effective than layering a full routine. City trips or event-heavy itineraries call for a different approach, think skin-prepping essentials that support long-wear makeup and balance exposure to pollution or sweat. 'If your travel includes a lot of evening activities, your routine should emphasize glow and hydration,' Harper adds. Skincare minis aren't just shrunken-down versions of full-size favorites anymore, they're becoming well-curated sets that streamline your routine without skipping key steps. These TSA-friendly kits now include everything from cleansers and serums to moisturizers and masks, often grouped by function or skin type. Many newer kits are designed to eliminate guesswork. Some focus on fast radiance (ideal for in-flight recovery), others are tailored for reactive skin or humid climates. What's important is how they help you maintain consistency while adapting to changing conditions. 'Travel should never mean skipping your skincare goals,' Harper says. 'These sets are designed to support your skin in motion.' It's a valid concern: can a travel-size serum really deliver the same results as your full routine at home? 'If you're using diluted formulas or unstable actives, the answer might be no,' say formulation experts. That's why it's worth investing in travel products that maintain the same composition and potency as their full-size versions. Harper confirms, 'We don't compromise on formula integrity when creating our minis.' This matters, especially for bioactives like natural retinol alternatives or vitamin C, which can degrade if reformulated or poorly packaged. Look for airtight, opaque containers and ingredients backed by stability data. Traveling light doesn't mean leaving your skincare behind; it means packing a destination-smart routine that works with your environment, not against it. Here's how to tailor your minis based on where you're headed: Cabin air is drier than the Sahara (literally), which makes hydration the first-class priority. Focus on moisture layers and barrier protection. Hydrating Serum: Timeline Skin Health Serum – a multitasking formula that delivers deep hydration and supports skin vitality at a cellular level. It's lightweight enough for layering and gentle enough to use around the eyes, making it ideal for dry, tired skin at cruising altitude. Barrier Balm: Jouer Hydrate + Repair Skin Barrier Balm – a multitasking balm that hydrates dry patches, smooths cuticles, and calms irritation caused by dry cabin air or shifting climates. Face Mist: Caudalie Beauty Elixir Travel Size – part facial mist, part spa moment, this plant-powered spray blends grape extract and essential oils to instantly refresh, soothe, and subtly tighten skin mid-flight. When you're chasing sun, salt, and SPF, opt for breathable hydration, gentle exfoliation, and sun-calming recovery. Pollution, late nights, and sweaty subways demand a routine that detoxes and brightens without stripping your skin. Travel skincare is no longer about mini bottles thrown in at the last minute. It's a thoughtful extension of your daily ritual, edited, efficient, and flexible enough to handle anything your destination throws at it. 'You shouldn't have to sacrifice performance just because you're packing light,' says Harper. And that's the new beauty baseline. With a little intention (and a few hard-working minis), your skincare can travel just as well as you do. Click here to learn more about Tata Harper
Los Angeles Times
6 days ago
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
6 Fermented Foods Everyone's Eating This Summer for Gut Health and Glowing Energy
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. As summer approaches, fermented foods are emerging as a smarter, science-backed way to support gut health, hormonal balance, skin vitality, and even mood. Once confined to the margins of natural food stores, these age-old staples are now earning center-stage status — appearing in everything from probiotic tonics to microbiome-friendly twists on comfort food. And while the buzz is loud, the underlying science (though still evolving) is increasingly compelling. Interest in fermented foods has surged in 2025, as more people seek out natural ways to support digestion, boost energy, and maintain overall wellness. With kefir, kimchi, and even fermented skincare taking off, it's clear that gut health has become a priority, not just a passing trend. This probiotic-packed, slightly fizzy fermented milk drink is dominating breakfast routines. Known for its gut-soothing benefits and high microbial diversity, it's being dubbed 'yogurt's overachieving cousin.' In fact, kefir is considered one of the most promising functional foods due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and even anticarcinogenic potential, according to a 2021 NIH review. Spicy, crunchy, and full of personality, kimchi's tangy mix of fermented cabbage and chili paste is now a fridge staple well beyond Korean households. It's also rich in lactic acid bacteria and has been shown to support anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and even cholesterol-lowering benefits, according to research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food. This tangy, effervescent tea has evolved into a multibillion-dollar industry. What started as a hippie health-store staple is now a mainstream favorite, with innovations like adaptogen-infused brews, nootropic blends, and zero-sugar options hitting shelves everywhere. This umami-rich fermented soybean paste is popping up not just in soup but in salad dressings, marinades, and even desserts. Once niche vegan proteins, these traditional soy ferments are gaining broader recognition for their dense nutrient profile and probiotic perks. Yes, it's a thing. Beauty brands are now experimenting with fermented ingredients to promote skin barrier health, microbiome diversity, and inflammation control. Think of it as skincare that's been cultured, literally. 'Your microbiome plays an important two-way role with your hormones,' says Dr. Colleen Cutcliffe, co-founder and CEO of Pendulum Therapeutics. 'A diet high in fibers and polyphenols will ensure a diverse gut microbiome that is metabolically healthy.' In other words, feeding your gut might be the most foundational thing you can do for your overall wellness, especially when hormone balance and inflammation are involved. Gut health isn't just about what happens below the belt. As research shows, new research is shedding light on the gut-skin axis, linking a thriving microbiome to radiant skin and fewer inflammatory flare-ups. 'We know there is a huge opportunity to impact the immune and inflammatory responses through the gut,' she explains. 'And those are tied to how things appear on our skin.' In layman's terms: while topical products might not be miracle workers, nourishing your gut with probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber-rich foods could help you glow from the inside out. If you're craving a seasonal wellness refresh, fermented foods offer a simple, flavorful way to do it, no cleanse or supplement stack required. 'As we move into spring, look for variety on your plate, particularly when it comes to color,' says Dr. Adam Perlman, MD. 'Probiotics are another key ingredient for springing back into spring.' He points to kimchi and kombucha as simple but powerful tools to reboot digestion, enhance energy, and rebalance after a processed food-heavy winter. While the science behind the gut microbiome is still emerging, what's clear is that fermented foods are no longer a niche interest. They're a cultural and nutritional movement and a delicious one at that. Will kefir cure your burnout or make your skin glow overnight? Probably not. But as part of a diverse, fiber-rich, minimally processed diet, it might help support the systems that do. Click here to learn more about Pendulum Theraputics
Los Angeles Times
24-05-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Biohack Your Memorial Day With These Smart Recovery Rituals
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. Memorial Day used to mean indulgence: grill smoke, pool floats, and enough rosé to make Tuesday hurt. But now, a growing number of wellness-minded Americans are flipping the script. The long weekend isn't about zoning out, it's a chance to recharge with intention. Instead of hangovers, they're after better brain function. Instead of greasy brunches, they're experimenting with glymphatic drainage and gut-friendly snacks. It's part of a larger cultural shift: holidays aren't just time off, they're time to reset. That three-day weekend is prime for running your own personal experiment in recovery, sleep, and energy upgrades, basically, a DIY wellness retreat. Biohacking retreats are popping up around every major holiday now. Instead of lazy poolside lounging, the itineraries lean into cryotherapy, red light facials, and intermittent fasting schedules. And brands are clearly paying attention: companies like Bon Charge and Skin Gym have dropped Memorial Day promos to highlight their red light masks and infrared wraps. The trend has backup, too. A 2024 Sleep Health study found that just 15% of adults consistently get quality rest five nights a week. So a quiet, extended weekend free from daily chaos? That's a goldmine for nervous system recovery. Sleep debt remains a widespread issue, and new understandings of optimal sleep duration are helping people prioritize meaningful rest, especially when their calendar finally allows it. Neuroscientist Andrew Huberman calls sleep, light, and cold exposure the most powerful ways to hit reset. That combo (easy to access, grounded in science) has become a foundation for how many people structure their long weekend. Don't want to book a retreat? No problem. At-home biohacking is having a moment, and Memorial Day is a popular time to experiment. Cold plunges in the backyard. Face taping during Netflix marathons. NAD+ therapy, once niche, is becoming more mainstream, especially among those looking to improve focus and energy without overhauling their entire routine. Suzie Pemdejian, head nurse practitioner at AlphaMan Clinic, says most report noticeable improvements in mental clarity, focus, and sustainable energy levels within just a few sessions. Even food is getting a glow-up. Classic BBQs are swapping out coleslaw for fiber-packed greens and collagen-boosting drinks. Instead of beer, think nootropic-infused mocktails that promise energy without the crash. This isn't about being rigid or obsessive. It's about choosing how to spend your rest. Memorial Day can still mean beach chairs and baked beans, and that's fine. But for others, it's become a window to turn down inflammation, get better sleep, or finally try out that bathhouse. There's also a rise in overnight recovery products designed to do their work while you sleep, supporting skin, hair, and stress recovery without adding steps to your day. As the line between productivity and pleasure keeps blurring, this idea of the 'wellness weekend' feels more permanent than trendy. Click here to learn more about AlphaMan Clinic
Los Angeles Times
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Bridal Second Looks for Every Budget and Theme
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. When the ceremony ends and the party begins, many modern brides are swapping sweeping trains and voluminous skirts for sleek jumpsuits, flirty minis, or shimmering two-pieces designed for dancing the night away. Whether you're planning a dramatic reveal or just want something more comfortable (yet no less stylish), a second look lets you express a different side of your bridal style. From fashion-forward ensembles to effortless outfit changes, these chic second looks prove that your wedding wardrobe can—and should—have a playful encore. Crafted of linen and silk, this gown is designed with petal appliqués. This midi-length piece features a sweetheart neck, spaghetti straps, and a corset-inspired bodice. A high-neck midi knit dress with delicate faux pearl straps and gold-tone fastenings at the neck and back waist. Featuring a tiered silhouette, the Sandrine sheer sequin gown from Sabina Musayev is adorned with ethereal floral embellishments on the shoulders. The Halle Dress features hand-placed feathers offer a three-dimensional aire while the asymmetrical cut adds a contemporary touch. The Halle Dress features hand-placed feathers offer a three-dimensional aire while the asymmetrical cut adds a contemporary touch. An a-line sleeveless maxi-length dress designed in an intricate floral lace and silhouette enhancing boning. Satin midi dress with straight neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps. Wrap bodice with V-neck, open back with self-tie closure. The Cadence satin jacquard slip dress has a a delicate floral texture, open back and asymmetrical flounce seam. Featuring a deep cowl neckline and an alluring open back, this dress is designed to turn heads. Designed to have a soft draped fit around the neckline and soft fit body, the adjustable halter tie ensures a perfect fit, while the delicate chiffon rose applique detail adds a touch of whimsical charm. This dress is distinguished by its satin fabric that provides an elegant shine and a soft touch. Its asymmetrical design adds a modern touch, while the bow on the shoulder, which can be adjusted in multiple ways, offers versatility and style. The most perfect sparkly mini built to dance the night away. You will love how the luxurious beaded Mikado scoops across the corseted bodice and balances perfectly with the modern mini silhouette. Emerson is a strapless fitted crepe dress that is designed with princess seams and a double layer of dainty feathers along the collar and skirt hem, giving the dress an extra luxe feeling. A mini-length faux pearl adorned fringed dress with a square cut neckline and delicate straps. Danielle Frankel's dresses are a masterclass in modern bridalwear, and they're made with such attention to detail that they'll be talked about for a lifetime. This 'Wendell' style is cut from layers of tulle and lace that will create beautiful movement in your photographs.
