People-Watching Sunnies

Sensitive skin girlies to the front—this one is for you. New York-based artist and creator Chelsea Boatey, AKA Afro Child, has some excellent recommendations, whether you need an exfoliant, makeup remover, or cleanser. Here, she shares her skincare go-to’s as well as her wardrobe essentials heading into spring, including the perfect trench and the ballet flats comfortable enough to traverse the city in.  — Maraya

SIGHT

Recommendations From A Former Theater Kid: I have a list of movies that were recommended to me by a friend who used to be a theater kid and every chance I get I check off that list. So far I've watched Sophie's Choice, Cleopatra (with Elizabeth Taylor), The Shawshank Redemption, Taxi Driver, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

I’m loving the current shows at Salon 94. Jay Sae Jung Oh’s work is an interesting take on art, design, and environmental responsibility. Definitely a must-see.

SOUND

The Creative Act Audiobook and “Bodyguard” by Beyoncé ( from Cowboy Carter album)—the ultimate summer song!

TASTE

Spicy Beef Pho: Rainy days call for pho and I have been loving the spicy beef pho at High Lua in Williamsburg. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!

SMELL

Tom Ford Café Rose and Zara Home Poetic Mind Freshener Spray.

FEEL

Giorgio Luminous Silk Natural Glow Foundation and Fenty Parfum Body Crème.

CHELSEA’S ESSENTIALS

House of Bo Casa Blanca Perfume: Such an elegant and elevated everyday scent! I always get compliments when I wear it.

Loewe Puffer Goya Padded Leather Down Shoulder Bag: A non-negotiable for uptown meetings.

Banbe Sunglasses: As an undercover people watcher, these are a fashionable must-have!

Nike Trench Coat: Trench coat for spring? Groundbreaking and necessary.

Dolce Vita Carin Raffia Ballet Flats: I am becoming addicted to wearing ballet flats. Easy, breezy, and perfect for a walkable city.

“Here's my hot take, it's time to put an end to Grey's Anatomy. After 20 seasons, it's time to shut down the hospital!”

Chelsea Boatey

VANITY

Luxury/Splurge: Phloretin CF with Ferulic Acid: The best vitamin C formula out there and for someone who scars from breakouts; this is perfect for my skin.

Drugstore Discovery: Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Wash: I can't go a day without this cleanser. It's perfect for double cleansing, and it removes all excess oils and makeup. I use this twice a day, and it’s perfect for my combination skin. It's also really good for sensitive skin.

Cult Classic: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: Such a gentle exfoliant and for anyone with normal to oily skin, this is the go-to. I’ve been using this for the past 4 years and my skin has drastically improved since then.

Indie Option: Typology 7-Ingredient Cleansing Oil: The best cleansing oil for sensitive skin. It’s fragrance-free and gently removes all your makeup and any impurities. Oh, and it's 99%  au natural!

All Time Ole Reliable: Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser: 2020 was a big year for Cerave; I was influenced through TikTok to add this to my routine, and I haven't looked back since. It's like a hug for my face,  so gentle and effective.

LATELY ON COVETEUR

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