From footwear and nailcare to skincare to low-dose cannabis, Well Defined editors sample products that help summer shine.
Mary & Jane
As a concept, I think cannabis is a wonderful solution for relaxation and serenity. I also think it’s a much healthier alternative to alcohol. In reality, every time I’ve tried a gummy, it makes me fall asleep. So, when I heard about the new company Mary & Jane, a brand created for those that are canna-curious or nervous about trying cannabis, it felt like serendipity. I love the story of this brand. Mary & Jane is a new mom-owned functional, low-dose cannabis company that offers delicious passion fruit-flavored melts to give you a very subtle euphoric feeling. Seeking an alternative to alcohol that still provided a lift, the founders were excited about the legally available low-dose products hitting the market. Conflicting information about dosing led them to believe that they could consume a 5 mg cannabis beverage or gummy and still feel in control. By the end of the night, they were swearing off cannabis once again. That sparked an idea. They couldn’t be the only ones that were trying legal, low-dose products but not getting the experience they wanted. So, they broke it down—literally—1mg by 1mg—because they found that cannabis is an amazing plant once you know your dose. As such, they created the first THC Dose Discovery Kit ($25) to give people more control over their edible experience, helping them safely and effectively discover their dose. Another great option is the Sunny Melts ($35 or $14 for first subscription order), which combine 1mg of THC with kanna, a South African plant known for creating a subtle euphoric and blissful effect. The combination gives you a subtle mood boost, making it a great swap for your weeknight glass of wine.
Therafit
All year round, but especially in summer, I like to be barefoot. Unfortunately, most of my house has wood floors, and I often end my day with aching feet. As such, I realized it was time to tackle my foot pain permanently. Enter Therafit, a line of footwear designed to address issues like plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or arch pain. I picked up the Sasha Women’s Leather Wedge Sandal ($189.95) in Bone. Along with being cute, it’s wildly effective. The shoes feature a shock-absorbing wedge with personal comfort adapters; are breathable to provide comfort and support; offer a shock-absorbing EVA removable insole with contoured arch heel support; contain a polyurethane gel insert comfort pad, and are uniquely formulated compression-molded EVA midsole. Even better, the brand is committed to giving back to the community through its partnership with Soles4Souls, a charity that provides shoes and monetary donations to those in need.
Mother Hats
I’m generally not a big fan of in-your-face “mom” gear. I think my general state of chaos and two small people in tow with me most of the time make it clear I’m a mother. But these hats are a fun, subtle, and cute ode to motherhood. Designed by a mom who wants to normalize that “being a mom is hard” and create a community where moms feel strong, beautiful, and confident, each piece is crafted with both style and substance, featuring empowering slogans and designs that resonate with the unique experiences of motherhood. Plus, 10 percent of proceeds go directly to mothers in need. The latest colorful collection is perfect for poolside lounging, summer trips, and holiday celebrations.
Dazzle Dry Sail Away
For most of the year, I opt for neutral nails. But summer is always a fun time to experiment, and I love this new color from Dazzle Dry. Sail Away! ($22) is a light periwinkle blue with subtle shimmer that pairs perfectly with summer sandals—it’s quickly become my favorite shade of the season. Aside from the enticing hue that looks great at the pool, I’ve long been a fan of this brand for its staying power (it last for up to four weeks!) and its natural focus. It is free from harmful chemicals and skin-sensitizing ingredients such as toluene, formaldehyde, TPHP, nitrocellulose, camphor, formaldehyde resin, ethyl tosylamide, phthalates, xylene, and MEK. The products are cruelty-free and never tested on animals. Plus, they never expire and your nails never yellow, as Dazzle Dry does not contain nitrocellulose, which can cause nail plates to yellow and nail polish to degrade.
K’lani Hair Tie Bracelets- Rise
These hair tie bracelets ($18.99) from a woman-owned company are cute enough for your wrist and strong enough for your hair, making them a fabulous addition to any summer ‘fit. This set includes five hair tie bracelets in warm neutrals, gold and cream accents that will go with any outfit. Plus, the subtle sunrise charm reminds us to rise up and shine every moment.
