Honey, I’m Lit

Beeswax burns differently than paraffin or synthetic blends. It’s slower, cleaner, and doesn’t leave that heavy, smoky smell behind. Instead, the room fills with a faint sweetness, like warm honey. No chemical perfumes, no hidden additives—just a natural scent that blends into your space.

There’s something quietly majestic about these faceted beeswax pillar candles. Its surface is sculpted into geometric planes—facets that evoke cut gemstones—and when lit, it emits a soft, warm light without reflecting glare. The flame seems to dance through the wax itself, turning a solid object into a living, glowing jewel. Instantly elevating your space. They’re not cheap, but at $65 for the set of 3 from Big Dipper Waxworks, not off the charts either for pure beeswax. You get what you pay for!

Pleats, Please: A Vintage Gown Worth the Drama

Some gowns aren’t just garments — they’re sculptures in fabric.

This 1970s Malcolm Starr Rizkallah chiffon gown in radiant sunshine yellow is one of those rare pieces where craftsmanship, color, and history meet. Nearly 55 years after it was created, it still feels strikingly contemporary, proof that true design never goes out of style.

What first captures the eye is the bodice: a masterpiece of draped chiffon, pleated into a crisscross construction that flatters and frames the figure. The work is intricate yet effortless, giving the dress both structure and softness. From the fitted waist, the skirt spills into gathered folds that float with movement, creating an ethereal silhouette reminiscent of Grecian goddesses and pageant queens alike.

The color — a bold, lemony yellow — radiates confidence. It’s not shy, not subtle, but a statement shade meant for someone who wants to be remembered. And even with its history (a faint stain, a few moth kisses tucked away in the folds), this gown has lost none of its magic. Like all the best vintage, its imperfections only testify to a life lived and nights danced through.

Designed under the creative vision of Youssef Rizkallah for Malcolm Starr, this gown embodies an era when American eveningwear was bold, glamorous, and meticulously made. Rizkallah’s Paris training and Egyptian roots gave his designs a unique fusion: couture lines, vivid colors, and a sense of drama that still translates today. Whether you’re a collector, a vintage prom dreamer, or simply someone who appreciates clothing as art, this piece is a rare find — and it’s available now in my Etsy shop. ($300)

Yes, It’s a Real IKEA Bag!

SistaSoFine and her Brattby!

Who knew my summer It bag would turn out to be a mini IKEA shopping tote?

The BRATTBY, to be exact — a petite version of the iconic blue IKEA bag, measuring just 27x27 cm. I originally bought it online in 2023 for $1, thinking I’d use it for groceries. When it arrived, I was a little disappointed. It was smaller than I expected, and I ended up giving away all five that I’d purchased — except the one I’d already used.

Fast forward to summer 2025, and that little blue bag, long forgotten in the back of my closet, has emerged as my go-to "running to the store" bag. It’s sturdy, waterproof, and unexpectedly stylish. I’ve received so many compliments — from both men and women — all asking the same thing: “Wait… is that a real IKEA bag?”

Yes, it is. And yes, it cost one single dollar.

It’s trendy without trying hard, and functional without being frumpy. It’s a conversation starter. And honestly? It’s refreshing to carry something cool that didn’t cost a small fortune. I wouldn’t be surprised if Balenciaga or someone else whips up another high-fashion knockoff soon. But you heard it here first: the BRATTBY is the underdog of the summer accessory scene.

Sometimes style really does come in the simplest (and cheapest) packages.