1) UniKWax Center, 553 Third Ave NYC
I am OBSESSED with this waxing place. Far from typical, they make their own wax on premises; an all-natural formula that uses ingredients like aloe and pine tree sap that’s ideal for sensitive skin. Oh, and no paper strips either, the wax is so stretchy the technicians pull it off with their hands. They also use a separate wax canister for each customer, so there’s never any type of double dipping. There’s less redness, less pain…but more money in your wallet. Are you ready for these prices? A Brazilian is only $21!! I die.

2) Eve Nail Salon, 55 W.8th St NYC
Who knew that this hidden gem was located in the heart of Greenwich Village? An adorable salon that’s completely reasonably priced, yet not one of your typical NYC cheapie (often meaning skeevy) nail places. Each customer gets their own set of files and buffers, save them and bring them back to get a $1 off your next nail service! And the manis are totally amazing and super fast! I was in and out in half an hour and my nails looks perf!

3) Lorac Tantalizer Matte Satin Bronzing Powder SPF 15, $28
The finish on this bronzer is like none I’ve ever seen. It is the ideal mix of not too shiny or shimmery, but not dull and flat either. It’s baked on Italian terracotta tiles to create just the right shade of bronze that is somehow flattering on all skin tones. Use it dry during the day then wet at night for more saturated color. Don’t forget to brush it on your décolletage!

4) St. Ives Cellulite Shield Gel Crème, $7.99
After snakes, cellulite is my biggest fear in life. I know real women have it and I’m wholeheartedly supportive of rocking the curves, but I am terrified that I will wake up one morning with a dimpled derriere. My way of alleviating this (highly irrational) fear? Squats galore obvi, but also a nightly slathering of this St. Ives magical potion. It works wonders using ingredients like green tea and caffeine. And as an added benefit, it smells quite delightful. I’m going to go put some on now

5) Banana Republic Chilled Sangria Candle, $24
Yep, this smells exactly like the name. Delicious notes of red currant and pink grapefruit have me envisioning spending summer nights at tapas bars in Barcelona. Since I can’t hop on the next plane to Spain–I swear that rhyme was unintentional–I’ll settle for burning this yummy candle during nights spent out on the porch. It’s healthier than drinking sangria, that’s for sure!

6) Essentials by ABS Ombre Halter Dress, $99.50
While I’ve always thought that I was too short to rock a maxi dress, I recently discovered that I can in fact, pull it off. They’re the go-to piece for summer days, afternoons, nights… sleep in one if you want! This one from ABS has a super flattering silhouette and the tie-dye like print screams boho chic. The best part? It’s nice and flowy so you can indulge in those summer ice cream cones to your heart’s content!

7) Steady Stick Wine Holders, $29.95
There are few things in life that make me happier than an early evening picnic dinner on the beach. This would of course be incomplete without a refreshing bottle of wine. These metal holders from Red Envelope are such a cute way to perch your glass and bottle in the sand instead of awkwardly juggling them on your lap. Finally you’ll be able to balance your Bordeaux!

8 )  Betsey Johnson Lobster Ring, $80
These days the Glam girls are very into sea creature couture. For some reason unbeknownst to me, I’ve developed a slight obsession with accessories that involve any aquatic animal. Always quirky and fun, this Betsey Johnson ring is part super cute, part totally ridiculous. Do I need a large begemmed lobo on my finger? Maybe not. Do I love it and want it? Clearly.

xx, Melanie Rud