In this series, readers like you share recommendations for the things they love the most, right at this moment.
Three Things: Clothing Lines That I‘m Crushing On Hard This Summer. By Dish.
Flore Flore. Is this the perfect summer t-shirt? I think so. And I’ve been searching, searching, searching. According to a friend who would know these things, Flore Flore is the new “it” t-shirt line for cool women in NYC this summer. Meaning, it will explode everywhere soon. I was specifically looking for something fitted and feminine to pair with loose linen shorts and pants. I feel like too many t-shirts are boxy and loose, or too boyish, which looks fine with tight jeans (etc.) but adds an extra 15 pounds if you’re wearing pleated linen shorts or loose linen pants, as I so often do. This is the Anna shirt pictured above and it is specifically from Flore Flore’s ‘lightweight’ line of t-shirts because thickness is another issue I have with summer t-shirts. I got it in both the offered colors (black and white) and in addition to the aforementioned linen shorts and pants, have been pairing it with skirts. It’s fabulous. To add to its beauty, the jewel neckline invites a great necklace.
I think it’s the most perfect summer t-shirt.
Monica Nera Shirts. I mentioned this brand out of Poland last summer, but last year it was for its summer dresses. This year I indulged in a few of these shirts. I wear jeans or relaxed linen pants to dinner a lot this time of year as I don’t frequent a lot of places in the summer that require me to dress to the nines. The beauty of these shirts is that they draw attention to your face and really light up a pair of jeans. I absolutely love the cotton Monica Nera uses - it is from Portugal and feels so crisp and high quality. And I love the color selection. I am showing some soft summer colors above, but I also have a lot of her pieces in the dark navy (which reads almost black but is more flattering)
With these shirts, I would be tempted to pull my hair back off my face (read: I wouldn’t have to wash and style it) and then put on some casual dangly earrings. Easy, peasy smart and feminine.
Marcella New York Alyssa Infinity Top. For date nights. I bought a few tops from this line over the winter, which is new to me, and in case I am lucky enough to get asked out on any, I thought I needed something softer, fitted, sexy and feminine for date nights. I wanted a shirt that could be paired with linen pants or jeans. Bingo. This top can be worn multiple ways. Can’t wait to try it out on actual dates. (I’ll let you know!)
Three Things I’m Crushing On. From CRUSH Reader Mieke
BATCH! The absolute best CBD/CBN and not all but some has THC in it if you want that in the mix too. You’ll want to know that the CBD sleep product, either the gummies or the drops, are by far the best, cleanest and most effective of all the many sleep products I have tried…and I have a bit of knowledge in this area, having dated a man for years who is in that business. The company is based in Wisconsin. They are very communicative, and transparent. The sleep is solid and comes with zero after-effects no matter when you wake up. Then there are other effective products like the mushroom gummies and various products with some THC if that’s your jam. A little smidge on a cozy rainy day never hurt 😅. Great quality and they work!
ZO SKIN HEALTH. Some salons and doctor offices carry this line of various skin care products, as well as Amazon. Prices vary but they are not overboard ..ie La Mer 😱. I was an Obagi fan in the day and actually stuck to its routine for a couple of years. Dermatologist and founder, Zein Obagi, phased out from Obagi for mixed reasons, and started ZO SKIN HEALTH. Then I met the company attorney on a cruise who explained ZO was even “more so” in quality. My favorite in the line is the ZO tinted sunscreen & primer because the coverage is soft and natural.
HRT! BioTE Pellets. Hormone replacement therapy, of which there a several combinations. What works well for me (after an extensive blood work up) is BioTE pellets. I love it because it is good for dry skin, sleep and sex drive…all things that decrease after menopause. It was a game changer! There are mostly pros to this particular HRT but needs adjusting to your particular hormones. At first I might have gotten too much testosterone because I felt like a 20 year old haha but WHOA!🤯 ask your Dr. what methods she prefers.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I love the CRUSH information that others post and have tried several of the items. All good!!! Thank you
Thank you, Mieke! I have just ordered the BATCH CBD Oil Tincture (i.e., ‘sleep drops) and the ZO Sunscreen + Primer. I am at that stage where I occasionally need help with sleep - it’s not common, but when I need it, I really need it because I have something big the next day. Also, I have recently become addicted to primer to smooth out my pores, etc., and a version that is clean and with sunscreen is a winner. I can’t wait to try these! XO Dish
CRUSH Readers: Our community really appreciates your recommendations. I know that I do! Our community is smart and does their trials and research. I get feedback all the time that Readers try the products you recommend, so thrown in all your spring / summer / eternal rec’s here. Thanks so much!
Three Things I’m Crushing On. From CRUSH Reader Mieke
The movie “Daddio” on Prime Video, with Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn. The entire movie takes place in a NYC cab so that alone is original. He is a tough cabbie and she is a sophisticated New Yorker, and they are strangers who end up having an extended conversation with emotional depth. I found it very moving and authentic. They have a good chemistry (not sexual).
LA ROCHE-POSAY Toleraine Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV SPF 30. Wow that’s a long one🤪. Suddenly I have discovered this brand’s many products, though it’s been around a long time. These sunscreens are absolutely the smoothest, non whitening and non-drying sunscreens I have used to date. I have almost tried them all !! They make several sunscreens and having tried many I can say this is the most non whitening, skin smoothing, and non drying sunscreen ever! It is a quality product that I have wrongly ignored.
Mah Jongg. Another vote for mah jongg! It may be the new trend but it is a fun and interesting game that is ancient. I took group beginner lessons at a local library. I admit I am obsessed. It’s always mentally challenging and it’s stimulating to learn something new plus it’s social. I also think the various tile designs are fun.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I love the crushes that people send in and have immediately ordered many of the favs. Thank you all 🥰
Three Things I'm Crushing On. From CRUSH Reader Mark
Padel. Just search “padel” in your area. It’s the perfect new sport for both men and women at our stage. It’s a cross between tennis and squash, played mostly as doubles and on a smaller court. Courts are popping up all over the place. It is very big in Europe and has more of the feel of tennis than pickleball. You score like tennis and use a smaller ball that resembles a tennis ball. The thing that’s great about it is that it is more about strategy and feel than it is power, which means that it is a great coed sport. The courts are smaller than tennis courts, so you add that to the fact that it is played as a doubles’ sport and you get a very fun and social way to get a work out in. That combination is exactly what we all need in our lives right now. All of us, yes, but particularly us, other Crush Readers. Pick it up now to get a head start on your pack. :-)
The Larq filtered water bottle. I flat out don’t like plastic water bottles, so I carry my water bottle with me to play sports, etc. That means I am filling it up using whatever tap is handy wherever I’m playing. My tennis league plays on a lot of public courts, etc. I just bring this Larq filtration bottle with me wherever. It’s the simplest thing and I don’t have to worry about water quality, etc.
My wife gave me this for Valentine’s Day and I love it. I use it everyday! Mostly for drinks but also an occasional sandwich, hardboiled egg or yogurt cup. My routine now is to basically keep freezer packs in my freezer and this Yeti it in my car, and then I throw the freezer packs and whatever food item I grabbed from the fridge into the yeti — depending on what I am doing that day. I am very active and focused on eating healthy. Some days I will actually go from my morning Padel league out to play golf — I’ll throw cold drinks and some form of protein in there so I don’t have to rely on stopping somewhere. At the end of every day I reach into my Yeti and grab the ice pack and whatever food items/trash are in there. It’s easy peasy.
Anything else you’d like to share?
My wife and I both check out your CRUSH Letter every Saturday. Thanks Dish!
Three Things I'm Crushing On: What I Wore On My 17 Hour Fight to New Zealand by Dish Stanley
Here were my flight essentials for the long trip over.
SPANX Air Essentials
The direct flight on Air New Zealand between JFK and Auckland is a 17 hour flight, so comfort was obviously the priority. As I have written before, my standard ”flight uniform” includes the Citizens of Humanity Emerson Mid Rise Relaxed 27” in their darkest shade, Blue Ridge. CoH has cooler, more ”now” cuts but this more tailored, classic slim/straight leg is so incredibly versatile when you arrive, because it works with heels as well as sneakers and the slightly relaxed fit and pockets are great for the plane.
But a 17 hour flight? That demands leisure wear. A stylish friend who was staying with me last year showed me her Air Essentials Wide Leg Pant and I couldn’t believe how soft, comfortable and good looking they were. The Air Essentials line is not the SPANX products that might come to mind if you’re thinking SPANX circa five+ years ago. When I was planning out my travel wardrobe for this trip I thought I’d get a pair of the wide leg pants but when I went to the website I saw that they had expanded their Air Essentials line. I ended up getting the Air Essentials Luxe Tapered Pant in black. They felt great for the long (long) flight. I also appreciate that they have a subtle straight pleat down the center leg (barely noticeable in the right side photo above) that looks very sharp. I got the Air Essentials Luxe Full-Zip Tunic. I like that it has pockets — handy for holding your cell phone, boarding pass and passport while you wait to board your flight, etc., —and the full zip offers the possibility to zip up from the bottom as well as zip down from the top.
This line is nuts; it’s so good. There are a number of pant and top offerings, an array of neutral (travel-friendly) colors and the pants come in various length options. It’s less expensive than comparable Frank & Eileen comfort wear (that line has become too expensive for what it is, IMHO) and it’s much sharper. Check it out — it’s a winner.
PS: I’m not surprising any longtime CRUSH Readers by pointing out that I wore the whisper thin long sleeve Uniqlo Heat-tech T-Shirt in black under this. I then slept in the t-shirt (with the leggings) and wore it home. (There were a few hotel sink washings, too.)
UNIQLO Pufftech Compact Jacket
I have this UNIQLO pufftech compact jacket in both the black and cream colors. I wear it more fitted than the model above. I brought the cream for this trip. When you zip the Air Essentials Luxe Full-Zip Tunic (in black) all the way up it creates a black “column look” with the Luxe pant on the bottom, and the pufftech jacket worn open. I liked the look. This jacket packs up so small. Cream and black are a classic pairing and not too wintry - the cream really lightens up the whole look. The jacket is the perfect weight for weather in the 70s in New Zealand. In the winter I often wear the black one under a cashmere coat and sometimes keep it on when the outer layer comes off. It’s super versatile. I’ve had mine for over five years and have traveled with it to London, Stockholm, Spain, Milan, New Zealand, Paris, New York. It’s gone out to dinner, hiking and to museums. Love it.
These Retro-looking New Balance Black 327’s
I wore these classic, tried and true” sneakers in black/cream with the SPANX Air Essentials ensemble.
Three Skincare Items CRUSH Reader Sarah is Crushing On
”I love reading about the various products that other CRUSH Readers send in, so I thought I should contribute, too. I’m big on trying skincare products and here’s what I’m using now. — Sarah”
I have been loving Pai oils — Rosehip, Carbon Star, and Viper’s Gloss
CosRx snail mucin Maybe it’s just nerdy cool that it’s “snail mucin?” Anyway, it’s magic.
SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid (and everything else they make!)
Three Things I’m Crushing On: What Makes My Life Easier. By Dish Stanley
Efficiency Service: LugLess. There’s a reason it has more than 10,000 5-star reviews on Trustpilot.
When I mentioned to my friend Nina that I couldn’t have lunch one day because I had to spend the afternoon boxing up, then driving and shipping multiple boxes of summer clothes from my little beach cottage back home, she told me about lugless. It’s a service where you can put your luggage (or boxes) on your front porch with their tags attached to them, and they then show up — voila! — wherever you’re going. (They have multiple options — drop-off or pick-up, speedy or cheaper, etc.) I used it then, and many times since, including last month when I had to ship a bunch of things from my storage unit. It’s not just a lot less of a hassle than checking luggage or dragging stuff to Mailbox, Etc., because their logistics network finds the cheapest fedex or UPS option (with spare room), it’s cost effective, too.
Storage: Ordering a bevy of Stackable, Freezable, Glass Food Containers
I, too, am trying to reduce my exposure to microplastics, and so I’m gently and gradually moving from plastic storage containers to glass. There are less expensive options than these Glasslock versions, but because I make large portions and freeze leftovers often, I prefer these — they are thicker and more resistant to freezer burn. I have a number of glass Pyrex containers that I’ve picked up in the stores, which are perfectly fine for the fridge, but these have thicker glass and it really makes a difference when freezing things.
Uniqlo Heat-Tech Line of No Bulk Thermal Tops & Bottoms (Unisex)
I have mentioned the Uniqlo Heat-Tech line before, but I can’t say enough about them. The U neck shirts are such a thin layer that I love to wear them under sweaters in the winter. Who needs the extra bulk? I also sleep in the shirts and leggings (because as you’ve no doubt heard from Peter Attia and others, we’re meant to sleep in cold temperatures). And as you know, I never travel without them, because they take up no space and wash and dry quickly.
What are the products and services that make your life easier? I’d love to know! Write to me at Dish@PrimeCrush.com (and it would be super helpful if you remembered to put “What made my life easier” in the subject line so I catch it). Thanks!
How to Approach a New Year: Two Books That Changed My Life From CRUSH Reader Mieke & How to Effectively Manifest
CRUSH Reader (& frequent contributor) Mieke, whose thoughtful recommendations you’ve read in our regular Reader-sourced column Three Things I’m Crushing On, sent in a couple of books she’s recently dived into. It’s a new year, so I thought you’d want to know about them (if you don’t already). “I am focused on making a few changes in myself,” Mieke wrote. (Thank you, Mieke!)
And then, since we’re on the topic of change, I am adding a clip on how to manifest effectively.
"This book helped me cut back on my wine intake! 🤪"
Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza
The Steps to Manifesting, from a Top Neurosurgeon. Manifesting isn’t about just saying a wish and blowing out a candle on your birthday. (Oh. Maybe that explains a few things!) There are steps that engage your brain and senses, according to this neurosurgeon (from Mel Robbins).
Three New Things That Keep Me Connected to Others. By Dish Stanley
Maybe it’s that we’re still recovering from our COVID isolation, maybe it’s that we’re still recovering from becoming empty nesters (or divorced or a move, or whatever) but I feel like a lot of us are looking for ways to be more connected with others. Here are three that have been working for me lately.
Taking Up Mah Jongg. It started last spring when I slid into my seat to get a pedicure and a girlfriend happened to be in the chair next to mine. (We couldn’t have scheduled that if we tried for days.) Within five minutes, she said “We need a fourth for Mah Jongg on Tuesday.” “Oh, I don’t play,” I responded. “What?” She said. Then “Dish, everybody plays now.” That was in New York. A few weeks later I was in Boston over a coffee with a professional acquaintance who is part of a distinctly different, younger, more tech-forward demographic. She was also looking for a fourth for Mah Jongg. A few weeks later, ditto the scenario, change the scenery, with a Florida friend.
Now that I have taken it up, I understand its surging popularity. It is a quick game of pattern recognition that tests your concentration and strategic thinking. It is also exceptionally social — much more so than bridge. I think you have to learn live, and I think it takes at least two live classes before you start getting the hang of it. Once you learn live, you can practice online (I play at realmahjong.com.) Just google “how to find a mah jongg class near you” for the many options on where to learn. I got the name of an instructor from a friend, but another friend learned at our local library, another at a local community center. It’s a terrific way to spend time with friends, and make new ones.
Flighty for Families & Friends. My nephew and I both live solo and — especially given how tough travel can be these days - thought it was a good idea if we kept track of each other’s flights. This way we can confirm arrivals and departures, and even check in by text when one of us is on a trip. We sort of did this already, but not consistently and not with the kind of detailed information you’d want to have if there was an adverse news announcement. He recently told me about Flighty, an app that won some design and “best new app” awards when it came out in 2023. It’s been getting some buzz from travel sites, too. We tried it starting with holiday travel and I love it. With Flighty, you load the dates and flight numbers for your trips and then pick who will get what notifications. Last week, when my nephew arrived in Mexico City I sent him a text to have a great vacation. And then, when he landed in New York, I sent him one saying I’d made a reservation at our favorite Thai place (conveniently located on his route from La Guardia into the city) and since I could see that he landed on time, I said “I see you’ve landed - I’ll see you there!”
Impromptu, One-off, Book Discussions with Friends. I’ve now tried this a few times, and I think I’ll keep doing it. As I’ve finished a book I liked that I think a particular friend, or friend group, might like, I give (send) it to her/him/them with a note. “I loved this book. I also sent it to Lee and Sam. Don’t feel compelled to read it if it doesn’t interest you or if you’re swamped, but if you do read it I’d love to discuss it with you. And Maybe Lee and Sam at the same time?” Two out of the three times I’ve done this, it’s been a hit. (And when you’re talking about staying connected with busy, midlife friends those odds are good.) The way it ended up working best is that as one friend finished the book, he sent around a group text: “Done with Empire of Pain. Anyone else finished it? I want to discuss.” That, in turn, resulted in a “How about next week? I need this week end to finish it.” This works best, for obvious reasons, with books that are under 300 pages and are “approachable.”
Joining an ongoing book club is a commitment. But getting an already selected, recommended book in the mail from a friend to discuss it with on no particular timetable? Just whenever you’re done with it? That’s easy, and provides yet another way to stay in touch.
Three Things I’m Crushing On: My Most Potent Grooming Finds in 2024. Dish Stanley
Hair, skin and teeth. You don’t get more basic than that. I discovered these three products last year — all inexpensive drugstore / Amazon finds — and they’ve been workhorses in my grooming regimen.
- If you read my story about thinning hair, then you know I started to use 5% Minoxidil. I get the extra strength and apply it about 3-4x a week (using the dropper that it comes with) along the top and crown. I rub it in a bit once on my scalp. I buy this version (yes it’s for men but my PCP said to use it because it is stronger). I’ve started seeing a lot of hair regrowth where I apply it.
The biggest knock on the minoxidil is that you have to keep using it forever. Dr. Alan Bauman, one of the country’s pre-eminent hair restoration specialists, says: “Hair loss is a chronic and progressive condition, so any therapy treatment needs to be continued over time.” If you stop using minoxidil, you will revert back to the hair loss you had before you started it. For me, that means I’ll use it forever — it’s made that much of a difference. I don’t use it every single night - I apply it 3-4x per week. The other knock is that it’s messy. You get used to it, and it’s a small price to pay, for me.
Certain popular brands, like Hers, are offering minoxidil serums mixed with other hyped hair-boosting ingredients, but based on my research in all of these serums it is the minoxidil that is the true, tested workhorse. So being able to get a five-month supply on amazon for under $30 is a no brainer. And it comes in bottles small enough to travel with.
2. Skincare: Zit & Pore Zapper: Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
I have always had large pores (and, I hate even writing this) blackheads on my nose. I find them gross and they drive me crazy, so I’ve tried everything. I don’t know why I never tried this Paula’s Choice, because I had heard somewhere it was really good. I think I believed that the Goop Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator had to be better (because, well, Gwyneth versus whoever Paula is, I thought). It’s not. Paula’s Choice is a miracle. I put it on at night and my nose looks shiny and clean in the morning.
- Teeth Whitening: Crest 3D Whitestrips
When I got my teeth cleaned in November I asked the dental hygienist whether I should get my teeth whitened (“I’m dating, as you know,”). And, if so, how much of a hassle the whole rigamarole of the professionally-done teeth whitening was. After glancing out toward the hallway to make sure the coast was clear, she said “Just buy the Crest 3D Whitestrips. Those specific ones. Don’t do another version, those are the best. Use them every night for ten days. That’s what I do. It’s pretty damn close to what you’ll get coming here. Much less hassle, much cheaper. And your teeth look good, but they’ll whiten up nicely.” I took that to mean that I could use a whitening, and went directly from the dentist’s office to CVS (where they were stocked behind lock and key). Amazing what a difference they’ve made.
Three Things I’m Crushing On: More Transition Dressing. These Are For A Trip! by Dish Stanley
I am spending most of October in Europe on a trip that will incorporate eating, drinking and shopping in the South of France with one set of friends, followed by a hike with girlfriends on the Camino de Santiago in Spain. As CRUSH Readers know, I don’t check luggage, so I have to get a lot out of what I’m packing, starting with these core pieces.
Yeah, I know that everybody already knows about Rothy’s. But I just wanted to make the point that this particular color is perfect for the transition period. It will look so good with my new Julia Amory Betty Dress in Noir, and I got this style has the additional comfort insole. I have an extensive European trip coming up where my primary colorway will black/tan, and these will be both comfortable and versatile (for pants and dresses).
I’ve bought quite a few pieces from line by K since I dropped weight and got in shape over the summer of 2023. Most of their clothes are extremely body conscious, but this is a fuller, very lightweight skirt with some texture that makes it work particularly well as a transitional piece, plus it won’t show wrinkles and folds up easily. And it has pockets! I like that it has this slit up one side, which doesn’t show much when you’re walking but if I want to be a little sexier over dinner in the South of France, I could open it over my knee. Here’s the slit:
I am going to bring a fitted long-sleeve lightweight black cotton top to pair it with to balance the full proportions of the skirt. Then I can throw a sweater over my shoulders. I also always travel with one pair of dangling earrings, one lightweight chunky necklace that I got in Venice and a beautiful lightweight Hermes sweater. I’ll use those to change things up. Voila! As they say in St. Tropez. Here’s what I’m thinking of for the top. (I like the subtle ruching).
This slouchy, classic bag is such a winner. You can wear it over your shoulder, or take the strap off and carry it is a cool-looking clutch. I use it with a cross-body strap (which you can buy from them, or I already had a few of my own that worked). It is large enough to fit everything you really need, but small enough to slip into your luggage. This bag looks great for breaking up all the black I’ll be wearing, and works well with my Desert Cat Rothy’s.
Three Summer to Fall Transition Dresses I'm Crushing On. By Dish Stanley
The Julia Amory Betty Dress in Noir
I love a great summer-to-fall transition dress! You can’t tell from looking at it, but the cotton is a thick, heavy one which really makes it work for days and nights with a slight chill. But because it’s cotton, it’s not too warm for an Indian Summer. This dress is so smart looking and flattering. I like to “pop the collar” and wear some big gold earrings to go out for dinner, to dress it up and make it more sophisticated. It is equally good for a casual lunch with some sneakers and more casual accessories. A total winner.
Ann Mashburn Anaya Popover Dress in Black Poplin
I saw this in the window of their store on Madison Avenue while walking by last September (2023). I wore it all fall. It goes everywhere — you just vary the shoe — sneaker, sandal, flat or boots. Brunch/lunch/dinner. It’s so easy and looks smart. Pair it with black tights and it goes all the way into November.
The Louise Slip Dress in Black by Organic By John Patrick
My friend Di first turned me onto this slip dress in Navy, which I get so much wear out of. I just ordered it in black for fall. I almost wear my slip dress with a light cashmere sweater on (or over my shoulders). For feeling like I’ve got “more coverage” I wear a long cardigan, for a date I wear a boxier, sexier silk/cashmere blend. This dress is so packable and versatile! (Don’t worry, it is not as short as it looks on the model.)
Three Things I'm Crushing On: Jess
I will never go back to kibble for my beloved Winston. I conceptually signed on to the “fresh, healthy food movement for dogs” a while back but couldn’t find the right, convenient product that worked for me, since I move to different spots in the winter and summer. Winston didn’t like The Farmer’s Dog, and I didn’t like its mushiness, messiness, smell or packaging. I learned about MAEV and I can’t rave about it enough. I love the packaging, which is so easy to keep in my freezer and Winston loves the food.
I LOVE a hands-free dog leash, and I’ve tried a few. The Fable Fable is the best designed, most functional and beautiful version of the hands free leash. I love that you can use it as a slip collar, and it can go around my waist (Winston is 75 pounds). For smaller dogs you could slip it diagonally off your shoulders, but I like the extra stability of it around my waist. I bought the pink one! It’s so smart!
Winston has high noise anxiety. Not just fireworks, but also thunder, the lawn mower, the sound of hard rain against the window. The Thundershirt does not *completely calm* him for sure, but it goes a long way toward helping. If I am going out and rain or thunder is predicted, I always slip the Thundershirt on before I take off. He wears it when I’m home, of course, but there’s no way I’m going to leave him home alone without the support of the Thundershirt if bad weather is in the forecast.
Three Things I'm Crushing On: From Crush Reader Paul
My wife and I needed a really good twin-sized mattress and frame to pull out for visits from extended family and friends. When our house is full with our kids and their kids, we needed a “real bed” that could fit in an existing guest bedroom, but then be taken out and stored when they leave (for less clutter). We did not want to go the “blow-up bed” route — we wanted a better, more “permanent” bed offering. A friend recommended the Nectar with the foldable frame and it’s been great. It’s solid! It doesn’t squeak. With a mattress pad and bedskirt it looks and feels like a real bed — because it is – and we even kept one up in my office as a day bed / extra bed for guests.
This is another great thing we started doing whenever we are hosting a crowd. We order the 18 bagel bunch with cream cheese to be delivered the day of our guests’ arrival. It is there, in our fridge and pantry, for everyone to help themselves — until it all gets eaten up. It is SO CONVENIENT and EVERYONE LOVES IT. Really good bagels! If there are any left, we just freeze them.
We got a bunch of monogrammed weezie towels and the pool lounge chair cover-ups this summer. We have a pool and are also near a beach. We needed a fresh set for the summer, and love the look and feel of these towels. Plus, there’s a big advantage to being able to monogram towels when people are taking them to friends’ houses, to the beach, etc. We found that a lot more of them found their way back to us.
Three Things I'm Crushing On: From Crush Reader Bea
There is nothing like slipping on a cool poplin “short pajama set” after dinner for lounging and then slipping into bed. This set is “guest appropriate” to be seen in grabbing coffee if you’re staying at a friend’s and oh-so-comfortable. After wearing the short set all July, I ordered the cami nightgown for August. So cool. Loved it just as much.
Thanks to your piece on the importance of using European sunscreen (and where to get the good stuff — The French Pharmacy & Care to Beauty), I discovered Anthelios products. That led to their Age Correct Gel Cream, which I use daily because in addition to providing sunscreen, it helps to minimize wrinkles and dark spots. Love it when I can find a product that multi-tasks.
The other product I fell in love with this summer is the Ilia Hydrating Lip Crayon. I have admired this brand for a while and have many friends who have been longstanding fans, but it is the ease, simplicity and beautiful look of their lip crayons that brought me in.
Three Things I'm Crushing On: from Crush Reader Paul
I think CRUSH Readers should know about this line of everyday/outdoor clothing. I just discovered it—it’s out of Charleston, SC. It’s all lightweight, thought-out thoroughly, comfortable and good-looking in a classic, cool way. It’s straightforward, but cool is the best way to describe it. Take this Elevate T-Shirt: fits great, very lightweight (which makes it ultra comfortable and it dries really fast if you’re using it to bike or hike, etc.). More performance than cotton but a cotton look.
I have different versions of the Breeze short for doing different things, but they’re all great. You should check them all out for finding what works for you. I like the 6” M’s Breeze Short for most everything, but I also just got the new camo color in their Reverb short, which is also good for everything. And a little more interesting. All these shorts are solid, versatile players.
Since this is The Crush Letter, I should mention their Motion Boxer Brief. Ridiculously soft, so I like to wear them. I am 63. My girlfriend seems to like them too, which is important.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I swear I don’t work for the company! But I really like it and it sits in that place between dull (LL Bean, most JCrew) and over-hyped (Patagonia, etc.).
Three Food-Related Things I'm Crushing On: From CRUSH Reader Gail
OMG I’m so into these (over, say, drinking a cocktail) for social events. Sunnies are pastilles (i.e., mints) with just the right micro-dosed balance of thc and kanna to give you an ever so slight lift. The Sunnies people say “our proprietary formula creates a subtle euphoric and blissful effect for a plant-powered mood boost.” There’s only 1mg of THC in each, so we are talking a very slight lift (less than a glass of wine). Kanna is a South African plant that has been used as a natural mood enhancer since the 1600’s. I take two Sunnies before I go out to socialize, and then drink something non-alcoholic. They have zero calories and none of the after-effects on my sleep (and etc.) that alcohol does. Read the ingredients/instruction/dosing (always).
Absolutely obsessed with these. So refreshing and only 50 calories each. This is a brand new product from my favorite grocery store source for sorbet/ice cream. I was literally walking through my local Whole Foods to pick up some of their sea salt caramel gelato when I noticed an employee stocking these mini sorbetto bars. He said they were a brand new item and I scooped up a box to try. I quickly became addicted. They are mini, and that’s all I really need—a few refreshing bites. Unlike scooping out from a container, it is so easy to just stop at one. The lemon is tart and perfect for warm weather.
A friend who knows I love to cook sent me this as an impromptu gift. It’s brilliant and I can’t believe I ever lived without what has become my favorite, most-used kitchen gadget. A light spray of oil over fish (or whatever I’m cooking) is so much better than the thick glop that I was pouring on with a bottle. Of course I’ve tried the cans of olive oil spray from the grocery store but I’m picky about my olive oil and didn’t like the flavor or quality of what I could get in a can. This sprayer is the solution, and I use it almost daily (yes, I cook every day). This particular model is high-end and high quality.
Three Things I’m Crushing On. By Dish Stanley
Let’s Talk About Skincare.
I haven’t always been serious about my skincare, but this year I have doubled down on my health and wellness across the board. That has included adding these products to my routine—all recommended by reliable sources as “effective bangs for the buck.”
A friend who obsessively researches everything told me about NourishMax, and I am a convert to their suite of natural, powerful, fairly priced products (relative to other popular anti-aging skincare lines, like Skinceuticals). I use all of these: Hylauronic Acid Serum, Vitamin C+B+E+Ferulic Serum, Hylauronic Moisturizer and their Lip Plumper. I love the lip plumper! It makes me feel sexy before I go out—I put it on first, let it soak in, then put on a lip color or gloss over it. I also love that NourishMax offers a buy-in-bulk option for even more savings.
I started using this tinted moisturizer everyday a few months ago because it covers so many bases—it has a very light tint to it, so it gives some coverage but it is natural looking. I use this for running to the grocery store and other errands when I don’t want to feel or look made up. It also has spf in it. Whenever I can combine three products in one, I’m pleased. I use a heavier moisturizer at night, and in the morning I use this as a quick and easy moisturizer-foundation-sunscreen blend. (If I’m going out to dinner or somewhere special, I use a regular foundation for more coverage.)
I have been using this product since it came out. I love that it stays on (because I play golf and tennis) and that I can use it on both my face and body. It feels light and goes on smoothly, leaving a nice glowy finish (with no white cast). This brand’s Glow Screen gets a lot of hype, but I don’t understand why—it is more expensive than the PLAY formula and doesn’t last as long. This one is the winner.
Three Things I'm Crushing On: From CRUSH Reader Mieke
Love this product/makeup, especially the Gucci line. The product is simple and cool, and the vital skin care complexion drops are the best overall coverage I have found to date. Items can be found at special shops or on line.
Mushroom teas, coffees and gummies.
All mushrooms are supercharged with healing and anti-oxidant and anti-cancer benefits. I eat them 2-3 times a week and love the textures. A large variety of shrooms besides the typical white and portabellas can be found at Whole Foods.
Vintage and second hand decor, especially furniture.
Charish used to be my fav site but their prices are comparable to new. Etsy remains second tier and 1st Dibs is on the higher end. However, in South Florida, there are many fun, local vendors with warehouses full of goodies from fabulous homes and decorators. Always negotiate! As they say “one man’s junk is…” and there are many treasures to be seen as one walks down tight lanes of stacked and packed furniture, paintings, and odd one-of-a-kind items. It’s all eye candy to me.
For Spring! Three Things I'm Crushing On: From CRUSH Reader Lydia*
Downy Wrinkle Releaser Spray. This is a miracle product. Don’t question it, just order it. Unless you like to iron (which, who does?). I wear a lot of linen and if you wear a lot of linen (and why wouldn’t you, with this product) then you’ll need this. You don’t have to iron - just spray and pull the fabric and the wrinkles relax instantly!
Mirth Bottoms/Pants. So comfortable and easy. As carefree as sweatpants, less ubiquitous than white jeans and just as stylish. I have them in white and oatmeal for summer! Black for fall!
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette.This is a MUST have. So natural. The perfect “no make-up/make-up.” It’s not cheap but it lasts forever.
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
I love all the recommendations from The Crush Letter - everything from what to read or watch, to how to let go of friends (The Friend Edit piece by Dish was sooooo helpful). Keep it coming.
Three Things I'm Crushing On: Jerry
- The new Weleda line of face creams. I have been a big fan of Weleda ever since I dated this one woman with beautiful skin and I just noticed in Whole Foods that they came out with a new line of “Skin Food” for the face. I went online and saw that there are all kinds of options, including for aging skin. I’m all in. I’m a guy who is somewhat vain but not fussy and I also like to avoid unnecessary chemicals. This does it. The Nourishing Day Cream is under $25 and a little goes a long way. I use the night cream too.
- The new knit, collared Criquet shirts in midnight blue.
Honestly, I don’t think you can do better for a casual date in a mild / warm weather climate than a sharp-looking, long-sleeve, collared knit shirt. It is relaxed but it says that effort was made. Guys, I get compliments on this shirt on every date. It’s very soft, too.
- I think Ria Eyewear is new, or at least to a lot of people I know are just discovering it.
They make high-definition sunglasses for sports - pickleball, which is what I play, as well as tennis and golf. Not cheap (just under $200) but worth every penny. Lightweight, durable and you see really well. I wear the navy versions because I don’t need to look like Darth Vader - I like to be approachable — and I think it’s a bit classier and sportier for summer sports than black.
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
I love The Crush Letter. Thanks, Dish!
Three Things I'm Crushing On: “Peter”
Hi, I’m writing from NYC, where I live in a very small apartment and by necessity am always searching for well-designed, no-fuss solutions to everyday life. Offered at a fair price. There’s nothing like nailing it when it comes to what you use daily. I wanted to share some things I use religiously in case it is useful to you (or the men in your life).
1. A Henson Razor. I was forced to use a regular store bought shaver recently and I can only say “Yeah, no.” If you haven’t heard of Hanson’s razors, let me try to persuade you to give them a try now. First off, they are precision-made from an aerospace company and give a closer, better shave that lasts longer. Secondly, they feel substantial and well-balanced in your hands. And finally, all-in they’re cheaper than alternatives. The razor itself lasts forever (I’ve had my steel blue Hanson’s for years), and the blades only cost like $10 for 100.
- Quip Water Flosser. Simply the easiest, most effective, most convenient way to floss your teeth. You can angle the tip to get everything everywhere. I do a lot of dating, and a clean mouth is everything. Plus, I travel a lot and take my quip flosser with me everywhere - it is battery run, so no cords or chargers. There are other good water flossers out there, but they are a lot larger. I don’t want a honkin’ large piece of dental equipment on my bathroom counter, or in my luggage. I’ve been traveling (and living) with mine for years. It’s tested, tried and true.
- HexMill Pepper Grinder. This was a gift from an ex, a really good one. (Gift, that is.) I cook something almost daily, and this extremely well-engineered pepper mill is the best I’ve used. Plus, it’s handsome and feels substantial in your hands. Well done, ex. This is the only solid, steady, drama-free thing you’ve ever done for me.
Three Things I'm Crushing On: Submission from CRUSH Reader Danielle
If you have a 20-something in your life (I have three) here are three books you should consider getting them. The first two fall in the category of “principles and ways of thinking to help set them up as productive and happy adults” and the last one is just a really good, timely novel about 20-somethings living very exciting lives in the big, bad world post-college (taking some hard knocks, scoring some wins, falling in love).
1. The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter And How to Make the Most of Them By Meg Jay ($16.71)
I should start by saying that this is like a bible in my home right now (we have three kids in their twenties). I wish I had read this when I was in mine, and I’m glad that I read it now in order to better understand my kids and their mindset. Jay is a clinical psychologist who shares insight into her conversations with 20-something’s. One point she makes over and over is that this generation is living with a “staggering, unprecedented amount of uncertainty.” Jay covers the areas of work, love, the brain and body and establishes ways to thinking through, making decisions and moving forward in each of these areas. One of my kids in particular can get overwhelmed, has anxiety, and this book has helped keep him steady. Another is soooo ambitious, a world beater, and this book has reminded her of the bigger picture. I can't emphasize how much it matters that some of this information comes from somebody other than me and their father ...
2. The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom By Don Miguel Ruiz ($7.74)
The four agreements themselves seem pretty obvious (the first being “Be impeccable with your word”), but having them laid out with powerful explanations and contextualization drives home their significance. Particularly, the downsides and implications for you of not adhering to the agreements. It’s a book about empowering yourself by reminding (and re-committing) yourself to a code of conduct that will serve you well as an adult. In our household we all know the four agreements and can refer to them as guideposts (even when we may sometimes fall short, we know what we are aiming for).
3. Tomorrow, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow By Gabrielle Zevin ($14.71)
It’s fabulous! A novel that follows the lives of three 20-something’s who are game designers just out of college. They go through the whole rollercoaster ride as they find success and confront failure in all the key areas covered by Meg Jay in The Defining Decade, including love (and friendship), work, physical and mental/emotional health. The book covers the importance of love and of play (yes, play!).
Three Things I'm Crushing On: Bob Guccione, Jr., Founder and Editor of WONDERLUST
1. Folktale Wines (Various prices)
I love wine. This does not make me unique, I understand that. And I know nothing about wine, which makes me, frankly, even less unique. But I know what I like and lately I’ve been loving the wines of Folktales Winery and Vineyards. (The name sounds redundant, right? But it accurately describes the boutique producer they are.) They have a small vineyard, from which they make a couple of wines, and the rest of their production is relatively tiny numbers of bottles from meticulously sourced small, nearby vineyards. They make about 24 different wines and I have had about [scrambled… static…inaudible] different bottles. I didn’t have a bad one. My favorites are: The 2019 Creator Pinot (outstanding!), NV Folktale Orange 3 Year and 2020 Folktale Carbonic Sangiovese.
Not really in stores, so order from here.
2. Inspector Montalbano novels ($25, give or take)
I voraciously read crime fiction, my escapism of choice from my everyday life, which involves reading and editing millions of words a year. I particularly adore/quasi worship the Inspector Montalbano series by Andrea Camilleri, who died in 2019, at the rich, life-lived age of 93. The books, all superb, are set in Sicily in a lazy — except for the murderers, they’re not lazy! — coastal region around the imaginary seaside town of Vigata. The mafia pervade like humidity, and control most of daily life just as invisibly. Montalbano, surrounded by a gloriously entertaining, mixed bag of officers, is a complicated, never fully resolved, often insecure, organic character, who solves crime in a particularly Sicilian way, which means some things are sometimes deliberately left unsettled, and some people spared an indignity that would serve no one.
Start with Rounding the Mark (because I did). Do not read the last book until the very end…
3. The Blue Fox Motel, Narrowsburg New York ($200 - $400 a night)
It’s not natural to want to go to a motel as much as I like going to this place. So I better explain: First, it’s not really a motel, it’s a chic, luxurious intimate hotel spread across a glorious hollow of land surrounded by huge, sky-poking forest, that was once a boy scout camp, then a hunting camp and finally a bog-average motel, curiously, and somehow legally, only for Russians. Present owners Jorge and Meg took it over a few years ago and started repairing the dilapidated property, and refitting rooms in exquisite and sometimes wonderfully quirky ways. It has a retro feel but a modern shine. At night you sleep the sleep of peace that Heaven promises. The restaurant is country casual and convivial and gastronomically superb.
3 Things I’m Crushing On: Dish Stanley, Master of Ceremonies, PrimeCrush
1.Nora Ephron’s Essay Collections, Bookshop.org, about $14.83 each
I Feel Bad About My Neck
I Remember Nothing: And Other Reflections
Wallflower at the Orgy
Last year it was Joan Didion’s essays. For over a month now it’s been Nora’s. Once you spend a month with Nora’s essays, you can’t call her anything but Nora. This is not true of Didion, by the way. After a month with her essays no one would presume to call her Joan. Nora, though, is a chatty essayist. For Nora the personal is political. When she writes that her tits are too small, she is making a larger statement about women’s place in society. Small tits are something I knew nothing about until reading Nora, but what’s typical of a “Nora experience” (how I’d characterize reading her essays), is that while I’m with her on the objectification point I am also somehow relieved that I don’t have small tits. I worry that I make her sound trite, but she’s not. She is true. And a hoot to spend time with. It’s too late to ever be invited to one of her fabulous dinner parties, but partaking in her essays is the next best thing. Written in the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, they are still spot on about midlife and many other matters, and are as relevant, funny, devastating and entertaining as ever. Though I do now hate my neck. I didn’t need that, Nora.
2. New Zealand, Direct flight JFK to Auckland $7,998 Business Class
Air New Zealand
New Zealand finally opened back up to the world in August, and shortly thereafter Air New Zealand launched the first-ever direct flights between New York and Auckland. It is a long 17 hour flight - I know because I spent the month of October there. Well worth it. New Zealand was perfect for me: naturally gorgeous, effortlessly charming, warm and inviting, bountifully loving. Another short-term soul-pumping fling. Take me, kiwis.
3. TOPIX. TOPIX. TOPIX
PrimeCrush.com, free!
Perhaps this sounds a little self-serving but I’m absolutely positively in love with our new TOPIX column. We’ve only just announced it but you can’t imagine the confessions I’m already hearing! Let me backtrack. TOPIX is a new column we’ll be publishing regularly in The Crush Letter to share anonymous stories about how we are really constructing our relationships in midlife now. Not Divorced But Not Really Married Either, Sleeping in Separate Wings, Platonic Friendships That Function Like (and Better Than) Marriages, Lifelong Romantic Partners Who Will Never Marry. “Just reading about what TOPIX will cover makes me feel validated,” wrote on CRUSH Reader. Oh, the places we’ll go!
Three Things I'm Crushing On: Liza Lentini, Managing Editor at SPIN.com
1.Prada Cashmere Sweater, $1,720.00
Prada.com
I’ve tried to analyze why I love these sweaters so much and, moreover, why I prefer the men’s sweaters to women’s, but really it all comes down to one factor: comfort. I’m very tall, so generally men’s sweaters tend to be longer and looser and more comfortable for me. I don’t need to tell you why cashmere is so luxurious, but I will say, sometimes you really do get what you pay for, and this sweater is worth every penny. Treat it right and you’ll have a classic style you can wear forever.
2.INFINITIPRO by Conair Hot Air Paddle Styler Dryer Brush, $19.99
Amazon.com
I have very fine hair, so when I finally found this under-twenty-dollar miracle cure for making my hair look like I stepped out of a salon, I pondered: “What the heck took me so long???” You don’t live to midlife without wasting way too much money on frustrating beauty fails, so when something actually works, it feels like a dream.
3.Revolution Pro Blur Stick Universal Face Primer, $15.00
Ulta.com
When it comes to makeup, I’m easily the laziest person you’ll ever meet. I rarely wear it at all. However, I can’t deny that I look so much less like a swamp creature with just a little bit of makeup on in virtual meetings. What I love most about a great face primer is that you can grab it five minutes before the meeting starts, smear it all over your face and you’re (sort of) meeting-ready. It’s not heavy and I still look like myself in natural light. I found this one after my Milk Blur Stick ran out—they’re both quite excellent.
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The Crush Letter
The Crush Letter is a weekly newsletter curated by Dish Stanley on everything love & connection - friendship, romance, self-love, sex. If you’d like to take a look at some of our best stories go to Read Us. Want the Dish?
