Week of June 30

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F I T N E S S 

Only a few days left to get your bikini bod ready for the Fourth of July weekend! Try out the free Bootcamp Fitness and Zumba classes at Christopher Columbus Park in the North End. Or if those aren't your thing checkout these 3 Up and Coming Fitness Trends (including one of our favorite workouts). 

Thinking about making a diet change? Going Vegetarian Can Cut Your Diet's Carbon Footprint in Half!

C A R E E R

• How to Save $100K to Buy an Apartment
• How to Live the Good Life on a Budget 
• 7 Reasons to Become Financially Fearless

L O N G  W E E K E N D

Whether you are staying in town for the fireworks or going on a mini vaca this week, it is sure to be a festive and exciting 4th of July. Make sure to pack right for the weekend - don't forget sunscreen and a copy of Cuckoo's Calling which is our next Book Club read! 

If you don't have plans yet, register for one of these awesome parties in the city!

- Cameron

Sunday's True Confession

The Best Non-Toxic Sunscreens

1. Block Island Organics Non-Toxic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
EWG SkinDeep: 1 (Low Hazard)
Think Dirty: Not Rated
GoodGuide: Not Rated

Why to Buy: First off, the JUGs love Block Island. How can we not support a skincare company named after one of our favorite New England getaways?! This high SPF sunscreen has no nano-particles or artificial fragrances. It is perfect for the beach because it is water resistant and absorbs instantly. The formula is vegan, paraben-free, phthalate-free, made in the USA, and was not tested on animals.

2. Beautycounter Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Face Sunscreen
EWG SkinDeep: 1 (Low Hazard)
Think Dirty: Not Rated
GoodGuide: Not Rated

Why to Buy: We love that this broad spectrum sunscreen is nourishing and light enough to use as an everyday moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid and safflower oleosomes supply and retain hydration, green tea and geranium extracts soothe, calm, and balance skin. This product does not contain nano particles which can often irritate sensitive skin. This can even be worn under makeup, so there is no excuse to leave the house unprotected.

3. Erbaviva Sunscreen SPF 30
EWG SkinDeep: 1 (Low Hazard)
Think Dirty: 0 (Neutral)
GoodGuide: 7 (Significantly Above Average)

Why to Buy: This sunscreen contains only natural ingredients, including: zinc oxide (a naturally occurring mineral), aloe, sunflower, olive and jojoba oils, chamomile essential oil, and lavender essential oil. Unlike many "all natural" sunscreens (cough, cough Burt's Bees), Erbaviva doesn’t leave white residue. Plus it provides UVA/UVB protection in water for up to 80 minutes.

4. Coola Cucumber Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Matte
EWG SkinDeep: 3 (Moderate Hazard)
Think Dirty: 4 (Half N' Half)
GoodGuide: 10 (Best)

Why to Buy: Coola is the JUGs' favorite sunscreen because it blends in completely for a matte finish. I repeat, you will not look shiny or oily after applying this sunscreen! It is also perfect for daily wear because it is antioxidant-infused for a line-smoothing finish. Most of the ingredients in the formula are USDA certified organic, making this not only a safe product for your body, but also for the environment.

5. Badger Lavender Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Cream SPF 30
EWG SkinDeep: 1 (Low Hazard)
Think Dirty: 1 (Neutral)
GoodGuide: 8.2 (Good)

Why to Buy: Badger is a local skincare company, based in New Hampshire. Their products contain some USDA certified organic ingredients, are non-nano, and are not tested on animals. Plus, this sunscreen is budget friendly so you can really slather it on!

- Cameron

SHOPBOP: BEST OF SALE

Since Shopbop sales don't come so frequently as say a J.Crew or Piperlime it's important to strategize. What I like to do is every season comb through the new items and add a variety of to my "wishlist," then when a sale does come around, I have a nice little list of things that I have already self-approved and can see if any work for the time. By "work" I mean that I could add the item to my closet as a staple piece and it fits within my budget now that it is on sale.

For those of you who don't have such a strategy in place, here's a few of my top items from this weeks sale:

This white striped dress, gray maxi dress, and this white drop waist dress are the perfect outfits for any casual to cocktail type of event. 

This pink flowy skirt is adorable, it would make any gal feel a ballerina.

Always buy Loeffler Randall, Jeffrey Campbell or Matt Bernson when on sale. I love these flats, these caged heels and these chunky heels.

When buying from Shopbop I try to avoid jersey tops and stick to longer lasting materials. I love this boxy lame top and this blue shell tank. Can you tell I like drop waist?

That's all for now. Happy shopping gals! Be sure to share your finds and or wishlists with us!

- Suzanne

Daily Read: Tuula Vintage

No, Jessica Stein is not a model.  She is a mid-twenties beauty from Australia with a serious case of wanderlust and someone with the best. job. ever.  She left the real estate world in 2010 and started an online visual diary, easy to see why she has built a solid following over the past four years!

Jess travels the world for fashion shoots and documents everything for her blog, Tuula Vintage.  The title was chosen based on the word "wind" in Finnish, which describes her lifestyle as a traveling fashionista.  Her statement is made in designer pieces, and she keeps accessories to a minimum.  I love seeing the various cities and landscapes that she visits. 

 Tuula Vintage feeds my daily case of wanderlust!

- Meredith

all photos from Tuula Vintage

Book Club Discussion Questions for OITNB

This month, we're tackling the book behind the buzz. Before there was the TV show, there was Orange the New Black, Piper Kerman's memoir about her year in prison in 2004. Not only does this help us draw comparisons between the Netflix series and Kerman's real life account, but also raises some questions about the U.S. criminal justice system.

1. Give the book a grade, A-F.

2. What was one thing you learned from the book that you didn't previously realize about prison?

3. Did you find Kerman's writing style preachy or inspiring?

4. After reading this book, what is the one change you'd like to see in the prison system?

5. Do you feel more sympathetic to convicted felons than you did before reading the book?

6. More people are locked up in the U.S. than any other country. Why is this?

7. Did Kerman's punishment fit her crime? How about the other inmates?

8. How did her socio-economic status, race, and gender affect her time in prison? Her story? Does it make her story more or less credible?

9. Should prisons be privately-owned or run by the government?

10. Does the Netflix series do the book justice? In what ways is it better or worse than the book?

11. How would you adapt to prison life?

- Cameron

Week of June 23rd

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This weekend marked the first official weekend of summer!  We hope you were able to enjoy the weather like we did!  Here are some must-knows this week:

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

One of my favorite childhood books is coming to the big screen!  Leave it to Spielberg.

I'm excited for this Breaking Bad spin-off, considering season 2 is already in the works!

The Bayside crew (new generation) is back!  Saved by the Bell, the movie, is coming to TV.

Chelsea Handler is leaving late-night television and moving to a new network.  What do you think of her new show premise?

There's nothing else I can say about this cover song other than it gave me c-h-i-l-l-s.  As much as I tend to eat up most UK influences, I am really loving Sam Smith's presence in the music world these days!  He is a true talent.

Something a lot of us (bloggers or not) need to remember, how to remain anonymous on the internet.

M I S C E L L A N Y

I just read about this app, have you heard of it?  It seems like making plans with a group of friends easier and would help indecisive people like myself!

After purging your closet, use these savvy tips for sticking to your budget.

S H O P P I N G

Did you hear that Club Monaco is coming out with a line of interiors?!  This is sure to be good.

Piperlime is offering 25% off dresses, skirts and sandals through 11:59pm tonight!  A perfect time to load up on summer essentials.

Have a great week!!

- Meredith

Sunday's True Confession

it's a real thing.

Latest Obsessions

Tory Burch Amira Dress $150  //  Forever21 Lace Demi Bra $14.80  //  Best Made Co Coal Bag $78  //  NARS Lip Gloss in Eternal Red $26  //  Anthropologie French Bikini Top $48  // Marc by Marc Jacobs Studs $48  //  Anthropologie French Bikini Top $48  //   Madewell Braided Sightseer Sandal $41.50

Spring Cleaning with ThredUp

You read that right, spring cleaning, and it's mid-June.  Since moving this fall for the first time in four years, I am just now, another nine months later, starting to purge.  I have had this task on my to-do list for ages.  I even curbed my former (horrible) shopping habits because I knew I had absolutely nowhere to put anything once it would come out of the bag.  I researched a few options and once I read about resale site ThredUp, I knew that would be the kick in the behind I needed to finally start this mini-makeover.

The thing I like most about ThredUp is that whatever does not sell or is accepted gets donated.  No journey to find an area Salvation Army bin necessary, which is great news for a city gal!

It's been a slow start for me with just two bags packed up (and not yet mailed in), but it feels great to start purging.  Two down, many more to go!

- Meredith

Daily Read: Ecorazzi

As much as we hate to admit it, we all love celebrity gossip. Whether you flip through a People at the nail salon or are a daily-watcher of E! News, celebrity tidbits add a bit of drama to our everyday real people lives. Unfortunately, celebrities are often highlighted for negative things - breakups, fights, inappropriate tweets, and questionable fashion choices. So it may be offputting to hear that some celebrities are actually doing good things with their time! One of my favorite blogs, Ecorazzi, shares stories of celebs that are environmentalists, animal rights activists, and human rights advocates. This is gossip you can truly feel good about reading. It promotes accomplishments rather than failures, and is often inspiring to read.

Enjoy!

- Cameron

Craigslist Hidden Treasures

As you can see I am obsessed with finding the perfect bamboo or faux bamboo accent piece for my next DIY project. Here are some gems I found over the weekend on Boston's Craigslist listings:

B A M B O O   B U F F E T

Item Description: This is a lovely bamboo design 1960s console buffet. It has great rattan woven drawer fronts, bamboo style accents and bamboo styled legs. Two drawers, two cabinet doors and a shelf below. The center door does not open. Would also make a great tv stand. Measures 44l x 16 1/2 d x 31 h.

While this is out of my current budget and furniture size requirements, I had to share this piece since it is such a gorgeous item. It'd be the perfect piece to pull together any living room or entry way, with little to no refurbishing required.

B A M B O O   C O F F E E   T A B L E 

Item Description: Bamboo wicker coffee table has a glass top. Table has never been used and is in excellent condition. Dimensions are 50"L x 16.5"H x 24"W

For $65 this coffee table is a steal. It appears in great condition and is sturdy enough to handle the usual wear and tear of apartment living (we all know that coffee tables become your kitchen table, foot rest, junk pile holder, etc). Paint a metallic gold to get a hollywood regency look - perfect for any modern gals living room!

M A T C H I N G   R A T T A N   C H A I R S (5th image in)

Item Description: Great variety of chairs including matching leather arm chairs, wingback, parlor, bamboo, caned ladder back and more!

First off, these are amazing. And yes I know the sale was for last Saturday, but I just had to share with your for two reasons. First, from now on I will be on the lookout for chairs like these (when I get a bigger apartment), and you should be too. If you have room and are looking to get a high-end bohemian look in your apartment, these chairs will do just that for you. Second, I am sharing these chairs in hopes that someone out there appreciates these as much as me and calls the owner to find out if they are still available. If they didn't sell at Saturday's sale, chances are you could get a knockout deal. Similar chairs sold on One Kings Lane for $595. 

Keywords used in my bamboo  Craigslist search: bamboo, faux bamboo, rattan, rattan accent chair, bohemian.

Inspiration Images: buffet, coffee table, rattan chairs

- Good luck and happy Craigslist hunting! 

Suzanne

The Week of June 16th

A R O U N D   T H E   H U B

So you probably heard that Boston made the "short list" for the 2024 Olympics, but what does that really mean?

Boston Magazine rounds up 50 breweries to visit in the Boston area this summer.

A R T S  &  E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Whoopsies, True Detective creator says season 2 rumors are all wrong.

What people really want to see on KUWTK.

S H O P P I N G   &   S T Y L E

Three ways to re-wear your bridesmaid dress (big sigh of relief from every gal out there).

Need nicer sandals than flip flops? Loeffler Randal is having a huge sale, just in time!

C A R E E R S   &   F I N A N C E

30 career moves you should make by 30, from LearnVest.

One of my favorite blogs, The Everygirl, is hiring for freelance writers and beauty editors. Apply apply!

L I F E S T Y L E

Can I have your number? What to do next time a creeper asks for your number.

Volunteering goes a long way.  Mashable shows us how volunteering can even benefit you in your health and your career.

Wedding Etiquette: what to do if your ex is coming to the wedding from Town & Country.

H E A L T H   &   F I T N E S S

Bikini time is here. Refinery29 has the most effective ab workout...or let's hope it is.

Hm, did you know your shampoo can "stop working?" 

Have a great week gals! And don't forget to follow us on twitter for more frequent updates!

- Suzanne

Image Source: Remain Simple

Sunless Tanners

clockwise, from top: 1 // 2 // 3

Quick soapbox moment on this topic, I am a huge proponent of not using tanning beds.  I frequented them regularly in my youth (including a job working at one during high school...stupid), and ended up paying for it as a young adult.  Even though I was always good about sunscreen use, you're never invincible to the strength of the sun.  Especially with Boston being such a seasonal city, I make sure to slowly build a base tan to avoid burning, which is always the goal (plus leaving the dermatologist after an annual visit with the OK is an amazing feeling!).

Lately, I've been looking into and trying a few different sunless tanning solutions.  My most recent trial was a spray tan at Elizabeth Grady for an upcoming wedding this weekend.  It was completely customized and results are expected to last 7-10 days, not bad for $40!

A few of my favorite products above are so easy to use that they're a part of my daily regimen the first day that "tights season" ends.  LC and other online sources present a wide variety of products for the sunless tanning user.  Do you have a favorite you would recommend?  Leave a comment so we can try it, too!  And, while you're at the store picking it up, grab that 30-50 SPF, nothing less!  You'll be grateful when people think you're still in your 20s in another 10-15 years, wrinkle-free and a clean bill of health to boot!

- Meredith

Local Ideas for Dad's Big Day

Ummmm Father's Day is on Sunday....yeah...THIS Sunday. Luckily for us, Boston has some awesome last-min gifts to offer, like Bully Boy White Whiskey (its clear...sorry...wrong photo above) which is available in most liquor stores, but is special because it is distilled right in Boston and is USDA certified organic. If your dad is more of a beer drinker, treat him to a locally brewed six pack of Plum Island Belgian White. It is the perfect summer beer...you should probably ask dad to share with you upon opening!

If your father is a foodie, a gift certificate to Karl's Sausage Kitchen in Peabody would be perfect! Their gourmet European market has everything you need for a summer BBQ. Plus, Karl's can deliver your gift certificate within 24 hours --- whew! Another idea, of course, is to cook for dad yourself. Try out this Whiskey Caramel Bacon Bark recipe. I know this one is 100% dad-approved because my dad is the one who sent me this recipe!

Finally, there is the old standby: Red Sox tickets. Our boys may not be doing so well this season, but there is really nothing like going to Fenway with your dad.

Happy Father's Day gals!
- Cameron

Mini Daily Read: Nina Garcia's Pinterest Boards

In the spirit of summer and being outside instead of on our computers, we are continuing on with our "Mini" Daily Read series and this week's feature is on the ever-so-stylish Nina Garcia and her pinterest boards.

Many of us know Garcia for her role as the tough judge on Project Runway, but previous to the show her resume built up to be quite the laundry list of accomplishments. It is from her experience at top fashion magazines like Elle and Marie Claire that Garcia has gained the utmost respect from every gal out there, from the "it" girls to the fashionably clueless, and it's because of this we can turn to her for inspiration.

While I could spend hours devoting to combing her pinterest boards, I am deeming this a "Mini Daily Read" because many times throughout the week I visit Garcia's many style boards for quick, easy and complete work and weekend attire ideas. Running late for a meeting but not sure what to pair with your outfit? Check out one of her many accessory boards. Not sure how to wear a latest trend? Check out her outfit boards conveniently categorized by trend. 

All you have to do is follow Nina Garcia on Pinterest and you're ready for a stylish day. You're welcome.

- Suzanne

Pssst, fun fact: Garcia attended the Dana Hall School in Wellesley! 

Summer Clutches

cork // seastar // pink punch // Moroccan beads
light rattan // dark rattan // raffia // tortoise

Summertime and its events scream ease, so why bother with your usual clunky handbag?  Sure, totes hold a lot, but each of these clutches can either simplify your ensemble or be the pop of color you need to mirror a sunny day.  Clutches are perfect for weddings, graduations and day-to-night events.

Which one is your favorite neutral and which bright would you go for?

- Meredith

Week of June 9

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S U M M E R  S T Y L E

Check out JUGs co-author, Suzanne's interview on how to dress for work in the summer heat.

We all love Mara Hoffman swimwear, but have you seen her home decor line for Anthropologie? LOVE.

How to wear all black in the summer months.

E A R T H

Curious how climate change will affect Boston? Learn from the experts tonight at The Nature Conservancy's Future of Climate event tonight in the South End.

P O P  C U L T U R E

In case you haven't heard, Brienne of Tarth has just been cast in Star Wars Episode VII!

This month, we're finally reading Orange is the New Black in book club which is awesome, because the second season of the Netflix series is now available.

And of course, thoughts and prayers to Tracy Morgan and his family after his car accident over the weekend.


- Cameron

Sunday's True Confession

Where to Run in Boston

June is the perfect time to jog in Boston. The weather is beautiful, and we finally get to enjoy some greenery outside! To be honest, the JUGs aren't the best runners around, we prefer yoga, fitness classes, and um...walking. But, these are the spots that motivate us to lace up our Nikes!

1. The Harborwalk
The harborwalk is one of the most scenic places in Boston. All along the harbor are well manicured sidewalks and pathways, making it the perfect route for a leisurely jog. Plus, the ocean breeze helps keep ya cool!

2. The Esplanade
If you're more of a distance runner, the esplanade is a classic place to start your run. The banks of the Charles River are full of runners and its easy to see why - this place is gorgeous.

3. Castle Island
Did we mention we like to run by the water? Castle Island is another great spot, especially if you live in or near Southie.

4. Charlestown
If you need a slightly less crowded place to run, check out the Charlestown Navy Yard. This route is also incredibly scenic and takes you right past the U.S.S. Constitution.

- Cameron

Crop Top Outfit Ideas

Last weekend at my college five year reunion I had a style revelation. My style revelation was that I realized everyone could wear a crop top. Shallow it may seem, but this was big news to me and also a huge confidence builder. I swear, I saw at least 10 different crop top outfits on girls that were of a variety of shapes and sizes.

What this told me is that you don't have to have the model 5'10" bod to sport a crop top. You can have a tall athletic build, a slender build, a large bust, small bust, soft tummy, toned tummy, wide hips or small hips. There is a way a crop top and will work for you.

What do the pro's suggest? Crop tops can go with pencil skirts, a-line skirts, pants, you name it. Grab a tighter fit one for a night out or a loser top that bares minimum skin for a fashion-forward day at the office. Need more advice? Check out these well styled crops on Refinery29 for more everyday crop top outfit ideas.

J U G S    A P P R O V E D    C R O P    T O P     O U T F I T S
1 // Top Shop Lace Top &  Zara Pleated Pants
2 // Tibi Eyelit Bustier & Eyelit Full Skirt
3 // Top Shop Cutaway Top & Dorothy Perkins Pleated Maxi

- Suzanne

Daily Read: The Londoner

Rose Thomas is the girl-next-door type lifestyle blogger whose life you (I) covet.  Finding The Londoner was such a treat for me, it's a nice daily reminder of my time studying abroad in London during college, x amount of years ago.  [[Full disclosure, I would move to London tomorrow if I could.]]

Rosie's log of daily adventures are chock full of drool-worthy images, whether she be at Harrod's, in Kensington Gardens, at the local pub or elsewhere, which could be all over the world.  She seems to be stateside in NYC often, and chronicles the city in a new light I don't see replicated elsewhere in the blog world that captures the essence of the city.

In my opinion, Rosie has impeccable taste in clothing, accessories and, food!  You need to start following her Instagram account immediately, if not sooner.  Rosie may have a modelesque figure and amazing Kate Middleton brunette locks, but girlfriend keeps it real with her online life journal.  Aside from a passport anyone would envy, her friendly humor is evident in her writing, too.  You can't help to want to go grab a pint with her!

- Meredith

all photos from The Londoner

Healthy Summer Shampoo Choices

1. Hair Cleanser No. 724, $19.95
Did you know that shampoo companies add unnecessary chemicals to their products to make them foamy? This product protects your long-suffering locks against mechanical distress caused by flat ironing, blow drying without foaming. Whether your hair is dry, oily or in between, this revolutionary shampoo, with its combination of healing oils and patented stem cells, cleans and heals without soap or suds!

2. Rahua Shampoo, $32.00
This 100% natural, organic and light-lather shampoo creates and maintains healthy, bouncy and lustrous hair. It works for all hair types and is especially effective for color-treated hair. You can find it at our favorite eco-beauty boutique, Follain!

3. 365 Lavender Blend Shampoo, $10.00
This budget friendly shampoo is great for people that are new to the whole eco-beauty thing. This product smells fantastic without artificial fragrances and is made with organic ingredients. Plus it works similarly to the traditional shampoos you're used to.

- Cameron

Week of June 2

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Happy June!  In case case you missed it, jam out to our playlist for this month!  

B E A U T Y
Are you a fan of face masks?  Don't forget these guidelines.


C A R E E R
Okay, it's summer!  Here's some more evidence that you should take that much-earned vacation.

Do you think your cell phone is killing your productivity?  This answer isn't too surprising...

What you're really trying to say in that email...


L O C A L
Spend 20 minutes of your day to watch Mindy Kailing's speech (or at least skim the highlights) from last week's Harvard Law School commencement.  Our favorite from Cambridge native never disappoints.

Burlington gal, Amy Poehler, just announced her new book cover and release date!  Hopefully it will make the JUGs book club list in its next cycle.

The second location of The Handle Bar opened in Fenway back in April.  I can't wait to try it out this week with other Boston Bloggers!  (Feel free to leave some first-time spinning advice in the comments, please!)


M I S C E L L A N Y
An oldie but a goodie, just let. it. go.

If you're a beer drinker, don't read this (well, read it, you're just not going to like it.)  A few of my favorites are on there.


Have a great week!


- Meredith

June Playlsit

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- Meredith