Welcome to a few of my favorite cosas/things for the year 2021! In the first edition of this series I picked out Winky Lux Lip Balms, a Tahari A-line dresses, Armani Silk foundation and more. The list below continues to focus on fabulous staples but with an emphasis on getting your money’s worth. I also added my favorite musical experience at the end, which includes this Critical Chica Latinx Indie playlist:
Now, let’s dive right into this list since I’m excited to share my favorite discoveries from this year!
The Farrah Skinny Denim Jean by AG
Starting with a definite thing: we have the Farrah skinny jean by the Los Angeles-headquartered denim brand AG which is named for Adriano Goldschmied a.k.a. “The Godfather of Denim.” But before we get to this fabulous pair of jeans I have a question for you. Do you buy the hella expensive designer jeans from department stores or the Marshalls discount store ones that are cute enough and affordable enough to purchase? I’ve done both. I’m here to tell you that you can find terrible and good jeans in both categories. Below, I’ll share both scenarios, ending with my discovery of The Farrah jeans.
My first my love affair with jeans started in the ninth grade when I discovered discounted jeans at Ross Dress For Less. Remember Ross? It’s still around but I very much remember it as part of my high school 90s experience. Cue song tune: “Do you love it?/ I love it. /I got it at Ross.” Hands down the best commercial tune ever. The local Ross store in Salinas was located near the Food Maxx which is a warehouse-concept grocery store. So while my parents shopped at “La Food Maxx,” I would always go to the Ross across the strip mall and check out the discounted designer clothes. I needed cool jeans pronto. I was convinced I would inch my way toward the cool crowd if I had designer jeans. I don’t know where I got this idea, but all I knew is that I needed to buy Calvin Klein jeans STAT, but how? Finally, one day, I had found them: a pair of dark blue, boot cut CK Jeans with a hint of acid wash fading right above the knees. Originally $85 but marked down to $30 bucks. This was my chance to move beyond the Jordache, Lee, and Arizona jeans of my youth. Goodbye Mervyn’s and JCPenney and hello designer brands.
I somehow persuaded my parents to buy them for me. What happened after? My social life didn’t change much for me that year. I was still the nerdy kid hanging out at the library, but at least I enjoyed my own company because I knew I was cool. I had CK jeans. In hindsight, I should have had self-acceptance to have proudly worn the dark purple Arizona jeans that my father’s hardworking salary had materialized for me. I could have made that cool. But, sigh, this is hindsight speaking.
It was because of stores like Ross and Marshalls that suddenly a brand new jean era opened up for me and I ventured onto other stores. College and graduate school were the beginning of professional slacks and designer jeans. I had found my way to Express Editor pants, which helped me build a “young professional” look. They were made of stretchy materials and the leg was somewhat in-between wide leg and boot cut. They were just appropriately stylish and professional enough for my first presentation at an academic conference. They were also still young and fresh since they were sold in fun colors and patterns. I had an electric blue editor pant and a black and white striped one. These slacks were fun but not too fun so that you can pair with a serious “I-mean-business” blazer. But as much as they provided color and patterns, the Express Editor pant is admittedly part of a mainstream notion of what it means to be professional or an “editor” for some reason, as others have noted.
Now, at the present moment, I am at a crossroads with my jean journey. I’m in my 30s with “director” in my job title (not an editor as much as Express was selling this profession to me) and I have now entered the “California professional” look ever since I noticed that office slacks can be replaced with a nice pair of jeans. I am able to afford the designer jean at its full price but sometimes expensive doesn’t always mean it is the best. In the past, I have bought a pair of high-rise Paige jeans. I loved them at first but found them to be sagging way too quickly in the waist area for the price that I paid. Perhaps I wore them too much or perhaps I still needed to find the jeans that felt right for the price.
And this is what brings me to one of my few favorite things of the year: the Farrah High-Rise Skinny Jean by AG. The brand is known for eco-friendly premium denim and upon first trying them on you can immediately tell that the denim fabric feels high-quality. There are two Farrah jeans styles that I particularly love. The first Farrah in the photo above is featured in indigo denim which makes it feel crisp and structured all the way to the ankle cut. I tend to wear these indigo jeans in the winter season, styling them with boots. The second Farrah jean is discernibly softer and stretchier denim, as evidenced by the 55% Viscose and 2% Elastene that make up this “high performance stretch denim” that still keeps it shape. They are so soft that when I first purchased them the cashier even commented on the fabric. If you want something to feel more like soft leggings rather than structured denim, then these are the Farrah jeans for you.
Overall, both Farrahs are high-rise cuts that provide structure and shape to the tummy area. And because these are both dark blue skinny jeans, they serve as great foundational pieces that are flattering and can be paired with any colors. The Critical Chica final takeaway: The AG jeans are durable, comfortable, and worth the expense. They run for about $180-$200. But because your girl right here likes a good deal, I suggest you find these for almost half off on Rue La La or other websites. I bought the Indigo pair for $75 so it’s possible. And of course you could also try your local Marshalls, Ross, and Nordstrom Rack because discount jean shopping does not go out of style in my book.
The Taylor Jay Fashion Label
For number two on the list we have ourselves a Black-owned fashion label by Oakland-based fashion designer Taylor Jay who designs “beautiful clothing that lasts a lifetime and makes every woman feel and look amazing.” Who needs Paris, New York, Milan, when you have fresh new fashion voices from the Bay Area? As a Bay Area native myself (San Jose-born baby!) I welcome the opportunity to give a spotlight to local creatives and artists like Taylor Jay. I first became aware of the Taylor Jay collection through my colleagues at Stanford when they gave me a gift certificate for by birthday. I guess my workmates really know me, or, at least have visited my blog, since they nailed it with that fashion gift.
The Taylor Jay label is a self-described inclusive and sustainable brand that believes in using ethically-sourced and eco-friendly fabrics to dress every woman. This eco-conscious brand has been written about in Allure, Essence, and Forbes. According to the brand’s website and bio, the designer’s first collection was inspired by the need to address the fashion industry’s shortcomings on making clothes for all types of women and their body sizes. How does that translate into a specific fashion sensibility? As you can see from the photo above, Taylor Jay’s fashion vocabulary can be seen through the draping of the fabrics, modern cuts, and muted earthy colors that are flattering for all body types. It is elevated casual chic for those who want to be comfortable but also look put-together. The fashion house also makes a pretty stylish face mask which was has been famously worn by Prince Harry.
I went to the Taylor Jay flagship downtown Oakland store located on Broadway to experience the fabrics for myself. I tried on a few things and discovered that the fabric really did fall in the right places and that Jay created pieces that could be used for various occasions. The store employee pointed me to one of their popular pieces, the Berry Cowl dress that can be converted into a sweater as well. I walked away with two fabulous pieces from their Greennergy collection, including the Maya top sweater which is described as an “elevated version of your favorite dolman sleeve top” tapered at the waits and available also in a peach color. The second piece was the grass-colored Cape (pictured above), which provides a much needed alternative to the office sweater or blazer, and is quite representative of the quality of the fabric that Jay uses throughout her collection. It feels luxurious yet accessible.
Critical Chica Takeaway: This is a shopping experience that is not so much about capturing the deals but more about valuing the craft of fashion design and supporting unique voices in the fashion world that has been homogenous for so many years. Plus you will feel fabulous in this clothes! Taylor Jay item is worth every penny. So if you’re in the area, I suggest you visit the Oakland store, or, you can check out the latest collection on their website, which also features a virtual stylist appointment page.
Vibrating rose-quartz facial roller and massager
Numero tres: A vibrating face roller made from rose-quartz brought to you by the brand Finishing Touch. This is not a super lux brand by any means as it is only $12-19, but it is nonetheless well-known since it has one of the highest ratings on Amazon with over 11,000 reviews! I’ll keep this review short and sweet, but first: let me set up the narrative for you on how a random thing such as a facial roller makes sense in this world. Hear me out.
Exercise is vital for a healthy body and a healthy mind. The more you run, walk, and sweat, the more you tell your body that you’re still alive and kicking. When you read, meditate, and learn something new, you’re flexing your mind muscles as well. So, if we can maintain the longevity of our body and mind through exercise, why can’t the same logic apply to our face? Can we stimulate, massage, and workout our face to let it know that you’re still ready to be fresh-faced and glowing to the world? Yes, we can, and we can do this with the Finishing Touch facial roller as it has two separate quartz attachments, including one to specifically enliven the sensitive eye area. Some reviewers mention that it has helped them decrease puffiness and dark circles around the eyes. Just as massages can help improve circulation in the body, the vibrating pulses help to improve circulation and collagen production.
Critical Chica takeaway: While I can’t guarantee you that this will turn back time on your face, at the very least it does help to you set in your serums and it gives you the opportunity to take the time to soothe your face, which is a relaxing way to start and end your day. I loved it so much that I sent this item as a Christmas present to some of my graduate school friends (Merry Christmas grad sisters!).
Mac Lipstick: Satin “Twig” color
For number four on the list: we have a simple, hands-down recommendation for Mac lipstick and in particular the Twig color if you would like to find an every-day lipstick that is neutral, but a mix between pink, mauve, and brown. Since this is a “satin” lipstick, the lip color goes on smoothly and it has a light sheen. Critical Chica takeaway: Perfect for the “I-want-to-wear-lipstick-but-don’t-want-to-attract-too-much-attention” kinda day. The twig color is part of my current lipstick arsenal, along with a Viva Red color, and of course, the bold and eye-catching Rebel color. I wore the understated Twig for the June 2021 Stanford graduation ceremony since I was there as a Grand Marshal to assist with the ceremony but also to celebrate all the students reaching the milestone that is to graduate during a pandemic. Also, it wasn’t really necessary to wear any lipstick truth be told since my face was covered by a black mask but it was fun to get dressed for a celebration.
Another reason why I decided to also feature this lip color on the list is because as soon as I had posted this photo on my own social media one of my friends immediately texted me and asked “What is that lip color you’re wearing?” So, just in case anyone else was wondering, this was the answer.
Columbia Trench Coat with Omni-heat technology
Numero cinco: In California we have been thankfully experiencing more rain than usual, which has been great to somewhat alleviate our serious drought problem. For this reason, I have come to embrace what many of our Pacific Northwest neighbors have know: the beauty of a good rain jacket.
The rain trench coat of my choice this season is Columbia’s rain trench coat with omni-heat technology that is used in the lining to provide insulation from not only rain but the frigid weather. What I love about this Columbia coat is that it has the waterproof and weatherproof features that you expect from this sporting goods brand but it also does not compromise on the aesthetic of the classic trench by featuring the ten front buttons, wide lapels, and khaki-colored fabric. The trench after all is all about innovative weather-proof technology since it is said that the English outfitter himself Mr. Thomas Burberry designed the Gabardine fabric characteristic of the classic trench coat which was introduced to the British Army before WWI. Continuing with the tradition of innovating fabric and material for the outdoors, Columbia designed the Omni-heat thermal reflective technology over 10 years ago and it is now regarded as one of the best light-weight fabrics for heat management in the industry. Used in the 2010 Winter Olympics, the Omni-heat Columbia gear works in similar ways to a space blanket by making use of your own body heat. But unlike a space blanket, the heat management is deployed very specifically through little silver dots in the lining. It’s light material but somehow keeps you 20% warmer than regular jackets.
I bought my trench at the Columbia Sportswear Employee store in Richmond, CA near the Rosie the Riveter National Historic park since my boyfriend had access to this discount store through his work but you can get a pass to the employee store by patronizing the restaurant nearby. Unfortunately, that specific trench coat style is out of stock online but you can buy the Women’s Stone Meadow jacket which is the same length as the trench and features the same Omni-heat technology. It also has a detachable hood.
I had the opportunity to put my trench to the test when I visited my friend Dara in Portland, a.k.a the birthplace of the Columbia label which was founded by a Jewish-German family that fled Nazi Germany in the 30s. A rich history to a brand that I had previously associated with the John Muir, white male conservationist movement. It was raining in Portland all weekend and I still had my Northern California allegiance to using my umbrella throughout the day instead of just relying on my trusted sportswear. Dara was also in need of some gear since we would eventually venture out to the Japanese gardens and so she made a quick stop to the Columbia store and Voilà she had emerged with the same trench coat! Mind you it is a big fashion faux paus to wear the same exact thing as your friend at the same time, but it was rainy out there so I supported her purchase nonetheless.
Critical Chica takeaway: What more can I say? Columbia makes great coats and I appreciate the light-weight but warm fabric that will allow me to bring on the layers if I need to. Also, I recognize that while we cannot disentangle the military, imperialist origins of the trench coat, I cannot help but wonder how pieces such as these can be re-purposed and re-signified depending on who is the designer or the wearer.
Calvin Klein Metallic High-Low Ball Gown
For this favorite cosa or thing, we go back to one of my favorite designers that I had long ago discovered in a Ross store: Calvin Klein. I needed a special dress for my niece’s quinceañera party (15th birthday) in September since it was going to be a grand celebration but also a family reunion. It had been almost two years since I’d traveled to New York to visit my brother, sister-in-law, niece and nephews because of the pandemic. The quinceañera was going to be the fashion event of the year, not only because of my niece’s quince dress which was gorgeous by the way, but also because every guest was encouraged to dress nicely. We were going to throw a proper Mexican Quince party in Westchester county. We needed to represent! And, I have to admit, I took this charge seriously because I did not have a quince myself since we couldn’t afford it back then when I was a teenager so this was my opportunity to see what it was like to dress up to the nines for such an event.
After looking at many ball gowns and dresses, I had found the Calvin Klein metallic dress that glowed with a beautiful copper and gold tone when I first picked it up from the clothing rack at Macys. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to go dress shopping in person since you want to find the dress that you can easily put on, dance in, and also sit comfortable in, because you don’t want the dress to become nuisance during a big celebration. As you can see from my throne picture right above, I sat and posed with much ease with this dress. And I danced to the Cumbia and música norteña with agility and, might I add, great rhythm.
Finally, you can pair the dress nicely with any type of metallic shoe and you don’t necessarily need to match with the copper. A trend that I really enjoy right now is mixing metallics not only in clothes but in your jewelry as well. Final Critical Chica takeaway: This is a gown that sparkled without being too flashy, and that flowed without weighing me down on the dance floor. I also received various compliments throughout the night. Another wonderful feature of this dress is the A-line skirt bottom that flutters out and provides some space for the midriff and tummy area, which is great if you actually want to enjoy the dinner meal or buffet during the party.
Spotify Wrapped: Your 2021 Year in Review
And because we want to end on a fun note, I have here not a “favorite thing” per se but a favorite experience. And that experience is generally the music app Spotify but more specifically their feature called “wrapped,” which analyzes your musical taste for the year and what they say about you.
The wrapped feature provides a brief soundtrack of your musical life in 2021 while also identifying key factoids about you, including how many minutes you listened to Spotify compared to other listeners. The wrapped feature does an eerily good job in capturing your musical tastes even if they are embarrassing and not at all on trend. In my case, they captured my love for music in general (I listened to 57 genres in one year) and my top five musical genres included Classic rock (The Beatles), Latin rock (Shakira, Julieta Venegas, and the like), Dance Pop (I like a good Calvin Harris remix) and Brit Pop (because some things never change for me). What it didn’t capture was my hip hop playlists (Drake and Kanye) but I imagine it may have to do with the fact this year I was heavily nostalgic for the Latin music I grew up with and also good guitar songs from Neil Young, The Beatles, and George Harrison since I’ve been learning guitar. As you can see my top 2021 music wasn’t very 2021. How un-hip of me!
However, there is an explanation. The old-school Latin music was especially on rotation over the last half of this year since I was helping my brother create a playlist for my niece’s quinceañera. All of my top five songs played in 2021 are Mexican cumbias with the exception of one Calvin Harris song. The tune that took the honors of being my top-played song of the year was the cumbia-banda party song “El Coco No” by Roberto Junior Y Su Bandeño. This 2013 song makes me chuckle and also makes me want to dance as soon as I hear it. If you want to get a sense of how Mexican and fun this song is, and why it’s perfect for a quinceañera, I highly recommend the music video. What is it about? There is a debate. Is it about someone not touching his head “el coco” or a woman getting inside his “coco” or headspace? Or does the “diablo” imagery in the music video imply that it is about the Latin American mythological superstitious figure known as El Cucuy/El Coco? Why is there a coconut in the video? All I know is that this song got into my own coco and that it’s really fun to dance in a Quince party.
Critical Chica takeaway: The funnest part of the wrapped experience is the audio aura feature. What is your audio aura for this year? Was it “spooky” or “bold” as some Spotify listeners have reported? Mine was happy and chill. I believe the Cumbia and the Bossa Nova I listen this year to had a lot do with my the audio aura.
Finally, I want to give a shout out to the newest genre that has emerged in my top 100 songs–what Spotify has dubbed “Latinx indie.” Back in my teenage youth this would have been called Rock in español which was defined by the likes of Maná, Café Tacuba, Arterciopelados, La Ley, and Julieta Venegas. These 90s Latin American bands and artists from countries such as Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and Chile wrote rock music in Spanish but also added their own regional flair to it. Now, I am coming across a new type of Latino/a/x musicians who may or may not have claimed the “Latinx indie” label but Spotify has decided to classify as such. In the playlist I curated below, you’ll find US-based Latinx artists engaging with a variety of musical genres ranging from dreamy shoe-gazing rock, new-wave, surf-rock and psychedelia, to non rock-genres such as hip hop, Afro-Latin cumbia, R&B, tropicália, and pop. You’ll find some songs by Cuco, or Omar Banos, a Mexican American artists from Hawthorne, California, who was able to get a seven figure record deal with Interscope Records with his brand of dream pop and emo music that is both in English and Spanish (thanks to my primo Joel for introducing me to him!). You’ll also find in my playlist the catchy and dreamy tune “Questioning My Mind” by Jersey native and indie pop singer Ambar Lucid, or, Ambar Cruz who hails from a Mexican and Dominican American household, and boasts a rich and textured voice that make her sound older than she is (only 20!). I also included a few non-US based artists such as the Colombian band Bomba Estéreo who have been experimenting with genres before Latinx indie was a category.
If we could make a distinction between the older wave of 90s Latino music and this wave of Latinx Indie (which I guess I’ll do now), I would say one clear difference is that these artists are not from Latin America but from a Latino diasporic community based in the global north. The musical tastes and sensibilities that we see represented here come from the sons and daughters of an immigrant generation and thus have been shaped by their Latin roots as much as their American and diasporic upbringing which includes not only rock, but hip hop, R&B and even global sub-genres such as British new-wave. These artists sing in English but they also code-switch to Spanish casually and without announcement. This is quite the opposite of the late 90s and aughts pan-Latino anthems that boast Latino pride and unity across the continents (I’m looking at you Pitbull). With these artists, the Latino solidarity is there but in more subtle and diverse ways.
Thanks for reading my favorite things list! I know it’s been a whole year since I’ve written and as you can tell I was mostly listening to Spotify and getting through the pandemic with the love and support of my family, boyfriend, and friends. I hope that some of these objects and things can provide us some reprieve from the everyday grind. Let me know what you all think. Next up, I will have a post on a few of my favorite cosas: wellness and ergonomic edition. Happy new year everyone and take care!
Love Critical Chica xoxo
Critical Chica 