Having just returned from a tropical excursion to Curaçao earlier in the month, I was ready for yet another opportunity for some R&R. This time, instead of the Caribbean’s promise of an island paradise, I made my way back to The States to the white-sand coastline of South Florida—Fort Lauderdale, to be exact.
The crystal clear water of the idyllic Fort Lauderdale Beach is a sight to behold, and the award-winning W Fort Lauderdale acts as a perfect luxurious complement to your beachy escape. Nestled on a beachfront location along 315 feet of the coastline, the lavish hotel is within walking distance of the beach, must-try restaurants, and Fort Lauderdale’s bustling nightlife and social scene.
But even if you rarely want to leave the property, from the 24/7 Whatever Whenever room service to the access to a WET Deck that entices you to lounge near the pool and a wealth of curated experiences, the W Fort Lauderdale comes equipped with amenities galore that ensure guests have everything they need in one place. It was undoubtedly the perfect place for me to kick back, relax, and unwind.
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The Rooms
The W Signature bed in one of the W Fort Lauderdale's king rooms.
Sheriden Chanel/xoNecole
The attention to detail can be felt in the chic design of the hotel, with inspiration drawn from the very ocean the property boasts sweeping waterfront views within each and every one of the 447 rooms. Speaking of the rooms, similar to the nautical-inspired decor sprinkled throughout the hotel through intentionally placed surfboards or even looped light fixtures, the subtly gets turned up a notch decor-wise with bold choices like a blue carpet reminiscent of the ocean floor.
Each room also has blue ombre curtains that frame the floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom and the bathroom. With an expansive walk-in shower and a soaking bathtub, the destressing elements the bathroom provided helped me fall for the sanctuary of my hotel room even more.
Sheriden Chanel/xoNecole
Sheriden Chanel/xoNecole
The private balcony where you can opt to have breakfast, answer emails, or even just revel in the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal waterway also doesn’t hurt.
The theme of luxurious indulgence is further accentuated through thoughtful touches like terry cloth spa robes, and Comfort Zone amenities, and I’d be remiss not to note the slice of heaven that are the W Signature Beds (and let me just say, they are as tempting as they are inviting).
Luxury Essentials Cart
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The hotel is all about finding luxury in the mundane and reminding yourself that luxury is something we all can have at our fingertips. The team at W Fort Lauderdale also recently unveiled their Luxury Essentials cart. The guest-centric offering is available upon request and allows guests to have access to the finer things in life through on-loan designer and high-end items.
The specially-curated cart emphasizes “taking care of the little things,” and features items like sunglasses, purses, fragrances, fashion tape, hair styling tools, and more from designers like Tom Ford, Gucci, and Christian Dior, to name a few.
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Dining
The Living Room in the W Fort Lauderdale
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Fort Lauderdale might be a lowkey foodie destination, but the W Fort Lauderdale hosts a plethora of dining options without even having to leave the property. With its sleek feng shui design, specialty cocktails, and delicious finger food, the Living Room gives the lobby area a major upgrade. Take the vibes a step further by soaking in the immaculate oceanfront views on the Living Room Terrace.
The W Fort Lauderdale Living Room Terrace
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For a more sit-down dining option, the hotel has El Vez, Steak 954, and SoBe Vegan. El Vez and Steak 954 are two restaurants helmed by Stephen Starr, an award-winning restauranteur, and provide very different vibes while packing tons of flair and flavor.
The dining area at Steak 954
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As its name suggests, El Vez is a restaurant that, in addition to serving incredible Mexican cuisine and craft cocktails, also treats guests to an ambiance featuring incredible oceanfront views. Steak 954 is giving elevated surf and turf with a focus on seafood that is freshly caught and, of course, steaks. Such expertly curated menu selections are complemented perfectly with cocktails as well as fine wines and a stunning visual of the restaurant's 15-foot aquarium, which is home to over 100 jellyfish.
The colorful and vibrant interior of SoBe Vegan's Fort Lauderdale location.
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SoBe Vegan is a fast-casual vegan spot that gives boldness, big color, and big flavor when it comes to its fun vibey decor and menu offerings. The restaurant keeps it all plant-based but isn't afraid to experiment with a variety of vegan takes on popular foods like burgers, sausages, jackfruit tacos, pancakes, milkshakes, and more.
You can also take your time heading out for the day or get your midnight snack on after a night out, thanks to their 24/7 Whatever Whenever room service that has beverages, food options, and even a specially curated late-night menu for after hours.
Jackfruit tacos at SoBe Vegan
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WET Deck
Sheriden Chanel/xoNecole
Sheriden Chanel/xoNecole
Just a flight of stairs away from the Living Room is the hotel's WET Deck, where shoes are optional, and bathing suits are a must. The rooftop pool sizzles just as much as it sparkles. Features like black and white tiled decks and the pool's transparent walls make for an Insta-worthy time whether you decide to lounge in a day bed underneath some much-welcomed shade, sunbathe in lounge chairs directly underneath the sun's rays, or get your feet wet and take a refreshing dip in the water.
What's even better is that guests can also enjoy colorful cocktails and treat their taste buds to light bites at the poolside bar. You'll never want to leave.
AWAY Spa
The pedicure station in the AWAY Spa
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One thing about me, I'm going to book the massage, and the AWAY Spa perfectly encapsulates its mission to "detox, retox, and repeat." Pamper yourself with signature massage and facial treatments. From Detox Treatments and Prescription Facials to 50- or 80-minute full-body massages, there is something on the spa treatment menu for everyone.
The colorful and vibrant touches of the W Fort Lauderdale can be seen boldly throughout the spa, which still manages to be a tranquil oasis.
The interior of the AWAY Spa in the W Fort Lauderdale
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The outside terrace at the AWAY Spa
Sheriden Chanel/xoNecole
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Guests can shower before slipping into their robes and sitting in the waiting area or on the patio, where you can take in picturesque views and have a beverage before heading into their massages. The AWAY Spa has a full beauty menu that includes hair, makeup, and nail services. Everything you need, the AWAY Spa has thought of it.
Additional Perks
As a dog mom who likes to find excuses to take her dog anywhere with me, the fact that the W Fort Lauderdale is dog-friendly really stood out to me. And since elevation is the name of the game for the hotel, dogs are welcome to have their own “treat yourself” moment. In addition to hotel rooms, dogs are permitted in the Living Room and the Living Room terrace, as well as on the patios of the on-site restaurants, Steak 954 and El Vez, respectively. During their stay, dogs are provided with a doggie bed, food and water bowls, and a doggie menu that is specially curated, to name a few.
In true bright and bold fashion, the property also provides courtesy white and pink cruiser bicycles for guests to use to exercise or explore Fort Lauderdale staples like the art galleries, shopping, and dining options of Las Olas. You could also tap into working on your fitness through the 24-hour FIT gym as well as morning workout classes. Information on both experiences can be found here.
All in all, I love the way the W Fort Lauderdale served as a reminder that you don't have to go far to get your fill of a beach escape within a tranquil oasis. Luxury could be found in each and every detail, and I can't wait to return and experience it all over again.
W Fort Lauderdale
401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Book at (954) 414-8200 or www.wfortlauderdale.com.
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RELATED
During the Los Angeles tour stop, which spanned three dates on May 21, May 23, with the finale on May 24, xoNecole had the opportunity to test out the glosses included in this soft launch, as SZA revealed in a statement that "this is just the start of other lip products, including plans to launch stains, liners, and creams all inspired by SZA's “infamous layered lip combinations.”
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So, what is included in the first Not Beauty launch?
The current Not Beauty products available are lip glosses that come in three shades: In the Flesh, Strawberry Jelly, and Quartz.
During my visit to the first LA Not Beauty pop-up activation, I not only had the chance to purchase all three glosses but also took a peek inside the blow-up log tent. Inside, fans got to experience SZA’s love for nature and her fascination with bugs, which are prominently featured in her performances for this tour. At one point, she even had human preying mantis prancing across the stage y'all.
There were blow-up photos of the beauty that is SZA for fans (myself included) to take photos, but in wooden-like tree trunks were a deeper dive into some of the ingredients featured in her products and their benefits.
For example, the glosses feature Hi-Shine Lip Jelly and Shea Butter as key ingredients and some of the listed benefits included are:
- Shea Butter - “A powerhouse ingredient, offering both functional and nourishing benefits.”
- Hi-Shine Lip Jelly (featured in the In the Flesh shade) - “Formula glides on with perfect adhesion to the lips without stickiness).
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What are in the products?
Featured in an orange package, with images of a bug and flower on the side, the back of the box reads: “It’s NOT BEAUTY, it just works. Developed by Solána “SZA” Rowe.
As someone who never leaves home without a good lip gloss, I loved how compact the wood panel packaging is. Perfect to slip into my purse, or in the case of the show at SoFi Stadium, into my pocket when I’m not carrying a bag.
Because I’m a sucker for a good black and brown lip liner and clear gloss combo, I decided to wear the Quartz flavor on night one of the Grand National Tour LA stop, and it did not disappoint. I’ll admit, it’s light weight feel made me nervous because it felt like there was nothing on my lips. However, when I checked my lips in my compact mirror several times throughout the night, I was shocked to find that my gloss was still intact. I only reapplied once out of the habit of looking cute and applying my gloss, but not necessity.
Here are some of the ingredients featured, but not limited to, in the Quartz flavor.
- Polyisoubutene
- Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea)Butter
- Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
- Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil
- Tocopherol
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Lip prep
I’m a simple girl who loves to stay true to her roots. So ahead of the show, I stopped by a local Inglewood Beauty Supply store and grabbed a Black and Brown shade lip pencil for just under $2 a piece.
Shading the outline of my lips with the black pencil first, I used the brown to lightly fill the inside of my lips before applying my Quartz Not Beauty shade gloss.
How to apply
There’s truly no right or wrong way to apply lip gloss (in my opinion), with this being a brush applicator sort of product, I simply untwisted the top and swiped the gloss around my top and bottom lip generously.
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Results
Again, my Not Beauty Quartz product stayed on my lips from the start of the show, which began with a fire DJ set from LA’s very own, Mustard, to the conclusion when Kendrick and SZA reunited on stage to send us home to their duet, “luther,” featured on the rapper's GNX album.
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And what am I doing to cause my skin to glow in the summer sun? The following 12 tips are definitely getting me right — and I am beyond certain that they can and will do the same for you, too.
1. Use African Net Sponges
I don’t know what freakin’ took me so long to get onto the African net sponge game — oh, but I’m here now and a sistah ain’t goin’ nowhere! The main thing that got me into them is because I was sick of trying to find ways to deep cleanse my back. African net sponges are bomb in this way because they are long enough to reach ever part of my back, they are made from a fabric that deeply exfoliates without overdoing it, they last longer than loofahs and they don’t trap as many bacteria and gunk in them; they lather up well and rinse clean afterwards. I absolutely adore them.
So, if you want to get rid of those stubborn dead skin cells in hard to reach places, so that your skin will glow, wash with African net sponges. You won’t regret using them — not one bit.
2. Wash with Salicylic Acid
So many of us were sold the dream that once we hit our mid-20s (shoot, at the latest), acne would cease to be (so much of) an issue. Chile, I am good ‘n grown and I still have to deal with breakouts on my back sometimes. SMDH. Something that has helped me out, tremendously though, is using a body wash that is made with salicylic acid. Your skin will like this acid because it exfoliates, unclogs pores, reduces inflammation and dissolves dead skin cells over time. The main thing to keep in mind with salicylic acid, is too much of a good thing can be problematic and, with it, it can dry your skin out, if you’re not careful.
That said, I’ve had zero issues with KaraPil’s Exfoliating Body Wash with Salicylic Acid. In fact, it prides itself in being a wash that doesn’t dry out your skin.
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3. Exfoliate with Honey and Yogurt
I’m going to provide a couple of more tips on exfoliating because if you want your skin to be super swimwear ready, that is absolutely one of the best things to do. Exfoliation helps to improve the quality of your skin; it makes it easier for your skin to absorb moisturizing products; it breaks up dead skin cells; it helps to boost collagen production and it can prevent your skin from looking dry and dull. As far as all-natural exfoliants go, consider applying a mixture of honey and plain yogurt.
Honey is gentle yet powerful when it comes to killing bacteria, soothing inflammation and pulling moisture from the air into your skin (which is what a humectant does). Yogurt has lactic acid in it which is wonderful when it comes to softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, removing dead skin cells and lightening acne scars. Yogurt also works thanks to its ability to tone your skin, protect it from sun damage and brighten in as well. You can check out a super easy yogurt and honey skin recipe here.
4. Do Some Dry Brushing Too
Wanna super exfoliate your skin? Dry brush. Want to remove toxins from your system? Dry brush. Looking for a way to reduce the appearance of cellulite? You already know what I’m gonna say — dry brush your body. It really is kind of wild that with all of the ways that dry brushing can help with skin issues, more people don’t do it (or do it consistently). Anyway, if this was a reminder for you to dry brush more often or get a dry brush, period — there ya go.
white and brown wooden heart shaped decorPhoto by 5. Rub on Some Bakuchi Oil
Where is time going that it’s been almost two years since I wrote “Plum Oil Is The Oil You Should Ease Into The Fall Season With” for the site? And although I continue to be a huge fan of it, the last time that I ordered some, the merchant sent me some bakuchi oil instead. I was irritated at first; however, the drama of shipping the product back motivated me to give it a try — I’m glad that I did.
Since I like to use oils to “seal my skin” more than anything else, I immediately noticed how light of an oil bakuchi oil is. Then I did some research and discovered that it contains potent anti-inflammatory properties and it can help to relieve itching and hyperpigmentation (when used regularly) too. So, if you want to create a natural glow with your skin, bakuchi can make it happen without a lot of greasiness or residue (which is always a win).
6. Get a Back Facial
At the time that I am writing this, I just made an appointment to get a back facial for the following day. My aesthetician and I decided that in order for my back to remain as clear as possible, I should get one at the turn of every season (for times a year). I totally dig it too because she is able to safely make extractions, deep cleanse my back and treat any acne scars with products that, because I’m not a professional, I can’t get my hands on. Yeah, unless your skin is absolutely flawless, never go into the season of backless dresses and bikinis without a back facial, please.
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7. Apply a Blend of Aloe Vera, Tea Tree Oil and Propolis to Breakouts
During the summer season, you’re going to sweat more which means that your chances of having pimples are probably going to increase. If you do notice a zit or two, DO NOT PICK AT IT. Instead, apply a blend of Aloe vera, tea tree oil and propolis directly on it/them. Aloe vera is good for breakouts because it contains antibacterial properties that help to heal pimples at a faster pace.
Tea tree oil is one of the greatest things at getting rid of pimples because its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce the size of zits, seemingly overnight (no joke!). And propolis? It’s a substance that comes from bees that also fights inflammation while boosting collagen production, so that your acne marks can fade quicker. You can get your hands on some propolis in royal jelly form here and in extract form here.
8. Keep Your Hair Off of Your Back (and Shoulders)
Summer is definitely the season to see how low you can go when it comes to brains and twists (check out “If Spring & Summer Are Your Favorite Braid Seasons, Here's How To Make Them Last” and “This Is Your Summertime Protective Style Cheat Sheet”). Just remember that always wearing your hair down can cause your back and shoulders to sweat; plus, whatever is in your hair, it’s going to transfer to your skin which could also lead to breakouts.
Moral to the story here: Ponytails and pineapples as much as possible are a wise move. You’ll still be cute and your skin will be “hair burden free” in the process.
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9. Put on Some Shimmering Body Oil and/or Bronzing Serum
For the most part, I really like bronzer. The only thing that gets on my nerves about it is the fact that certain brands can rub off onto your clothing (or other people’s) and that is a real headache. The solution? Shimmering body oil or bronzing serum because those tend to be lighter, they don’t transfer as much and they create a soft glow that is really natural-looking. One that I like to use on my face is Physicians Formula Butter Glow Bronzing Serum; for my body, XIFEPFR Body Shimmer Oil (in Bronze Gold).
10. Try Some Broccoli Seed Oil At Night
The (main) reason why it’s so important to incorporate a (consistent) nighttime skincare routine is because your skin rejuvenates itself while you are sleeping; especially as it relates to skin cell renewal, improving the texture and quality of your skin and slowing down aging signs. And when it comes to an oil that is great for your skin as you’re catching some zzz’s, your “something new” for the day just might be broccoli seed oil.
It’s a non-greasy, deeply penetrating, highly moisturizing oil that is filled with fatty acids; can soothe razor bumps; is able to protect your skin from damaging UV rays; can serve as an all-natural alternative to retinol (due to its high concentration of vitamin A), and, as a bonus, it’s great for your nails and cuticles too. It ain’t the cheapest oil yet it is gaining traction for becoming one of the most holistically beneficial; especially when it comes to beauty benefits.
Photo by 11. Sleep on Bamboo Sheets (and Wash Them Weekly)
Please tell me that you wash your bedding on a weekly basis. If you don’t, here is your friendly reminder that you shed a whopping 600,000 dead skin cells on a daily basis and so you absolutely should. And when it comes to bedding that is best during the summer months, consider going with bamboo sheets. They’re a super breathable fabric that’s soft, durable and also pretty good for the environment. Your skin will especially like them because they’re the kind of sheets that have a solid reputation for being naturally hypoallergenic, antibacterial and antimicrobial.
12. Drink Lots of Water
Your skin relies on water to keep it in supreme condition. Water hydrates. Water detoxifies. Water makes it easier for your skin to receive the nutrients that it needs. So, make sure to drink as much of it as possible this summer — even if it’s infused water or sparkling water with some lemon or lime in it. The more hydrated you are on the inside, the more moisturized your skin will look and feel on the outside — which is just what you need your skin to look like all summer season long!
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