My June Obsessions

By: Raven Lawson

June has been a month of highs (Beyoncé, duh) and incredibly low lows (you know what I'm talking about), but here is a list of some things I can't seem to get enough of this month.

Small Gold Hoops

Now let’s make one thing clear: I am a big advocate for giant hoop earrings. The bigger, the better.

But there must be something in the air this month because I’ve hardly reached for my usual pairs that are large enough to fit around my arm. Instead, I find myself gravitating towards smaller, daintier hoops on a daily basis. Whether I’m going out, hopping on a zoom call, or just chilling around the house, I don’t feel complete without a pair of hoops on, and lately, small gold ones have just been the perfect addition to every outfit.

Cream Blush

One thing about me, I'm a blush girl; you can never have too much, in my opinion, and if you haven't heard already, cream blush is the trend for summer 2022.

Lately, I have been especially obsessed with mixing two different shades to create the perfect orangey-pinkish hue. It’s too hot these days to do a full-face beat, and as an oily-skinned person, just using brow gel and cream blush helps give me that sun-kissed (slightly sunburnt) "your skin but better" look. And on days when I do feel like wearing more makeup, using cream blush under my foundation and concealer has become my go-to for a natural look.

Matcha

Hot girls drink matcha, but they don’t like paying eight dollars for a drink every day.

Making my own iced matcha in the mornings saves me a ton of money and provides my daily caffeine fix. I've perfected my own version of a matcha latte by adding almond milk, honey, and a bit of vanilla and cinnamon on top (yes, I’m basically a barista now). Plus, Golde is a Black-owned company, so I can save my bank account from going broke at Starbucks while also supporting a small business.

$5 Target Tanks

Run, don't walk, to your nearest Target to stock up on these cotton-ribbed tanks. They are the perfect summertime basic, and for only five dollars, you'd better believe I'm building a collection of one in every color. They're super breathable and have a flattering scoop neckline that compliments whatever jewelry I decide to wear with it. I’ve been reaching for these tops nearly every day because they're so comfortable, and you can also dress them up or down.

We all know how hectic Target can get, so grab some before they're all gone (or I buy them all).

Pressed Podcast

My favorite podcast this month has been Pressed, featuring U.K. influencers Adeola Patronne and Mariam Musa.

As the title suggests, this podcast is all about ranting and discussing what things have them "pressed" that week. From relationships to reality shows, if something annoyed them, they will air it out. This show makes me laugh and genuinely feels like I'm talking with friends because the girls keep it real. I think it’s therapeutic to rant about what irritates you, no matter how small.

New episodes air every Thursday, so check them out on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Break My Soul – Beyoncé

I would be remiss if I didn’t round out my list of June favorites with the return of Queen Bey herself.

Many artists have been dabbling with house music lately, and Break My Soul is definitely a cute “oontz oontz” jam for the summertime. I’ve had this song on repeat since its release— in the car, in the shower, while cleaning my room, you name it. Beyoncé knew what she was doing when she released this song to hold the people over until her new album, and I am, in fact, sleeping real good at night.

Play now on Spotify or Apple Music.

REFINE MagazineJune 30, 2022