The Rise of Chic Desert Aunt Style 🏜️
Branded disposable cameras, ketamine parties, and corporate appropriation.
Kristin: Already feeling the energetic shift of summer to fall, Leo to Virgo season, and not ready for it. The beaches of LA are still packed though and it’s only finally getting warm enough to swim. After an ocean dip, I went to the movies and caught It Ends With Us. With all of the Blake Lively drama swirling around, it was hard not to be distracted and she felt a bit one-note in the first half. But then the film found its groove, I cried (like, a lot), and the messaging about domestic violence got its point across. Props for that. If you’re a fan of the book, I’d say give it a watch—and maybe a read, too if you haven’t.
Sarah: I send my condolences to anyone in retail—brace yourselves, we’re exactly one month from the start of Q4. Happy holiday planning to those who partake. Between next week’s top-secret product launches and a social campaign dropping tomorrow, it’s been a rollercoaster of excitement. Speaking of rollercoasters, I went to Coney Island over the weekend. I ate a hotdog, did some people-watching, and rode a few rickety rollercoasters. 10/10 recommend.
Chic Desert Aunt Style. The "chic desert aunt" aesthetic, coined by stylist Allison Bornstein, is characterized by natural, earth-toned fabrics, statement jewelry, and an emphasis on intentional, long-lasting fashion choices. This trend has been around, but has now been given its own catchy name. Rooted in practicality and personality, this style resonates with those who appreciate breezy, comfortable, stylish looks suited for warm climates. The rise in the desert aesthetic has been popularized by places like Amangiri, which is a celeb hot spot hotel, and people leaving LA for weekends in Joshua Tree or Palm Springs. Unlike fast microtrends, this aesthetic is more enduring, focusing on a connection to nature and personal expression. The style reflects a shift from flashy fashion trends toward more timeless and grounded looks. -K
Creators Stopped Editing Their Content. The highly polished aesthetic has been on its way out for some time now, with Gen Z “editing” their photos in chaotic, zoomed-in ways and top TikTok content consisting of someone telling a story on their iPhone in the car. Creators are ditching the classic heavy edits (ones YouTube was once known for) and opting for raw, unfiltered videos—and it’s paying off. YouTube and TikTok stars like Dan Hentschel and Sam Sulek are gaining traction by focusing on authenticity and spontaneity, offering a break from overstimulating, hyper-produced content. This “no-edit” style resonates with viewers craving something more real and relatable, helping creators build stronger connections with their audience. The bonus? It’s easier and cheaper for creators while tapping into the growing demand. -K
Disposable Cameras: Gen Z’s Unfiltered Reality. Miu Miu and American Eagle are making disposable cameras cool again, and honestly, I’m here for it. Miu Miu even dropped a vending machine of branded cameras (because why not?), while AE teamed up with Life on Film, getting 200 influencers to shoot their lives on film. The vibe? Candid, raw, and a total departure from the polished content we’re used to. It gives nostalgia, but also rebellion against perfection. Saint Laurent kicked off this trend in 2020 with their Lomography collab, but now it’s officially Gen Z’s unfiltered moment. -S
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So, Everyone’s Taking Ketamine. And They’re Buying It Legally Online. I’ve personally seen this drug trend growing in LA and Austin’s “wellness” and party scenes. At-home ketamine treatments are gaining popularity, with companies like the startup Mindbloom leading the charge. Once known as an anesthetic, ketamine is now being touted for treating depression and anxiety. These online companies are offering lozenges and injectable doses—raising some serious safety concerns. While some patients rave about the results, experts are sounding the alarm: administering fast-acting, potent ketamine at home without medical supervision can lead to addiction, adverse reactions, and even misuse in the illicit market. Matthew Perry recently died from a ketamine overdose. As this trend continues, it's crucial to weigh the potential risks against the reported benefits. -K
$1M Won’t Make You “Wealthy” in Today’s Economy. Charles Schwab’s Modern Wealth Survey says that if you want to be considered “wealthy” in America, you’re looking at a net worth of $2.5 million—a jump from $2.2 million in recent years. With inflation and the rising cost of living, especially in cities like New York and San Francisco, that number is even higher. But when it comes to feeling “financially comfortable,” most people think $778,000 will do. However, to be even middle class in America, in some states, you need a salary of $200K. I remember as a little kid thinking how making $100K would mean I made it. How times have changed. The survey also sheds light on the difference between being “rich” (big income) and truly “wealthy” (financial security and freedom). The bottom line? Wealth today is more about having freedom and choices than simply raking in cash. -K
Beekeeping: The New Status Symbol for the Ultra-Wealthy. This hobby is becoming a status symbol and a passion project for celebrities like David Beckham, Beyoncé, and Martha Stewart. Even hedge fund managers are buzzing into the trend, with some likening it to the exclusivity and connoisseurship of winemaking. The historical allure of bees has always fascinated the elite, from Napoleon to Gucci. With honey’s buzzworthy health benefits and the chance to connect with nature, beekeeping offers the ultimate analog flex in a fast-paced digital world. -K
Another Consumer Brand, Another Mediocre Merch Drop. Remember when food and drink brands gave away their merch to promote their products? I’m just sitting over here wondering when it became the reverse. With Ollipop being a favorite, trendy soda brand among Gen Z and Millenials, they went and launched their own loungewear collection with Stay Cool NYC. It’s fine. I guess the people buying these are trying to communicate their identity or maybe trying to find others with similar interests. Very unclear. I’m also sitting here wondering when the pandemic-inspired loungewear collections will stop dropping and how we even got here. -K
Corporate Appropriation Is the New Streetwear. Blazers at the club? Ties on your day off? The office siren trend is everywhere—and it's killing it in the luxury resale market. According to The RealReal, ties are up 51%, and suiting sees a 25% spike in total sales. Slacks and skirt suits are no longer just for boardrooms—they’re the new off-duty power move, with millennial nostalgia driving blazers and low-slung tailored trousers straight out of the office and into our everyday wardrobes. It’s got that menswear-inspired coolness with a hint of rebellion—shoulder pads, loafers, and tailored everything. Even For Love & Lemons is ditching the lace gowns for '90s-inspired button-up sets in their latest collection. It’s giving "Working Girl" meets '90s nostalgia. -S
Say Bonjour to French Hair Pins: The New "Cool Girl" Essential. Move over bright claw clips—French hair pins are taking over. The effortlessly chic vibe is everywhere, with hair pin tutorials all over social. Searches for "French pin hairstyles" have surged 50% on Pinterest this month alone. If you’re looking to elevate your look, try adding one to your accessory options. -K
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The Soho House of Nail Salons. Majesty’s Pleasure is what happens when you mix a nail salon with a cocktail bar and throw in a dash of NYC exclusivity. Picture this: 50 manicure-pedicure stations, styled like a sleek dining room, all centered around a grand bar serving cocktails while you get pampered. And it’s not just about nails—it’s a social beauty club. With their “Leisure Club” membership, you can level up your mani game with unlimited monthly services. It's not technically members-only, but it’s giving all the chic vibes of an elite club. This might be where self-care and luxury hospitality meet their match. -S
What We're Wearing
Kristin: I’m out here trying different work out apparel brands that use organic materials. This week I got a set from Groceries Apparel. So far, bad customer service and a month-long order lead time, but hopefully the clothes are better.
Sarah: Even though we’ve got three weeks until fall officially kicks off, NYC’s been serving up sweater weather early. I’m leaning into the transition with my denim midi skirt and corduroy shacket, pairing them with tanks and summer skirts, respectively.
What We're Buying
Kristin: I’ve been trying some natural skincare and using tallow balm and it makes my face SO glowy and hydrated.
Sarah: I'm on the hunt for barrel jeans but struggling to find the right fit for my short little legs. If you have any recommendations, my inbox is wide open!
What We're Reading
Kristin: The New Couple in 5B was recently passed along to me and I’m starting it this week so I’ll keep ya posted.
Sarah: I’m currently 22% of the way through Lucy Foley’s The Midnight Feast audiobook and hooked. Like The Guest List and The Paris Apartment, every chapter ups the ante, and it is definitely one to add to your reading list if you’re craving a thrilling escape!
*Disclaimer: All opinions are our own, and our articles are provided for educational and informational purposes and do not constitute providing medical advice or professional services.
Wish I were cool enough (and talented enough...) to use a French clip.
Meet you girls at Majesty's Pleasure??