FOR THE SELF-INDULGENT: THE TOP SHELF
An invitation to the shopping group chat you never knew you needed.
Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links, meaning if you purchase the items linked, I’ll make a commission.
To know me, a child of Ebony Magazines and the Bratz doll franchise, is to know something like this isn’t a surprise. Yes, I’m starting another newsletter, but this one feels a bit different.
The Top Shelf is a shopping platform dedicated to discovering the most underrated beauty, skincare and style finds—plus a few of the fan faves. Think of me as your shopping-obsessed friend, dropping the latest sales and Sephora picks in the group chat each week.
This newsletter is dedicated to the self-indulgent: the people who prioritize play just as much as work and spend hours turning mood boards into a curated reality. My goal is to help you enjoy the pursuit of shopping while still cutting through the consumerist social media bullsh*t.
There’s power in being a strategic shopper.
This idea has been floating in my head since I began freelancing at Vogue, (WTF!) sifting through countless shopping stories and newsletters. From Alaïa Le Teckel bags to Staud jeans, the world of high fashion is a luxury I admire. But with a wallet as small as my waist, I can’t always afford what the boujee babes are buying.
And I’m not alone.
That’s why I’m sharing pieces that suit my life: a twenty-something trying to find herself with a limited budget.
If you’re not familiar with me from my college blog Makenna’s Meditation or my post-grad venture Mixxed, hi, I’m Makenna.
I spent four years creating content while pursuing my bachelor’s degree in journalism, and another two developing a love for fashion, gastronomy and travel while working for Condé Nast. In other words, I prioritize facts and media literacy above EVERYTHING.
Now, I’m an aficionado in all things culture and shopping.
You can find me being my friend group’s photo archivist, a pop-culture specialist and a reality TV junkie. I’m currently binging season four of Traitors US and The Real Housewives of Potomac, so hit me up if you’re also obsessed with Stacey Rusch and campy shows set in Scotland.
Beyond that, I love examining how shopping trends don’t just influence what’s in your digital cart but how they reflect the current cultural zeitgeist.
It’s another reason why my words are gracing your screens.
My shopping cart is a mirror into my obsessions, lifestyle and what I believe belongs at the top shelf, my proverbial wishlist of things that may or may not make me feel a little whole. Campy heels, indulgent candles, coffee table books for my dream apartment overlooking the Hudson River. All that stuff.
Knowing me—which you will on TTS—is knowing what I want and why I want it. From handbags to lip balms that satiate my gloss fixation, here’s a peek into what I’ve been coveting lately.
Summer Fridays Tinted Lip Butter Balm — $24
I spent my last few bucks in college buying this and Sol de Janeiro’s Brazilian Crush 40, and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since. It’s velvety, long-lasting and unfortunately worth the price tag.
Patrick Kelly’s Runway of Love — $45 $13
A perk of having cultured friends is learning their style obsessions. Patrick Kelly is the obsession.
Kelly, a Black-American designer, used racial imagery like the golliwog in his clothing to make timeless designs. His clothing, famously adorned with buttons, has a certain whimsy that felt ironic yet playful in the cultural backdrop of the 80s and 90s.
Eclecticism, gaiety and nostalgia marry in his designs, so it’s a no-brainer that this book is high on my wishlist.
Adidas Japan Shoes — $130
Last year, one of the best pieces of style advice I took was to dress for my actual life, not my ideal one. As much as I would love to sport Carrie Bradshaw-style kitten heels to Trader Joe’s, I love a comfy shoe that’s both practical but stylish enough to stand out on aisle six.
Steve Madden Anise Bag — $129 $90
The Anise bag is the Le Teckel bag’s little sister: similarly stylish and more attainable. That’s reason enough for me to want it in every color.
If you enjoyed reading this newsletter, then let’s connect. I’d love to know more about what’s on your top shelf.
You can find me on these platforms:
Instagram—my digital backyard.
Pinterest—where I spend most of my time.
Apple Music—for my playlists + top tier music taste.
Substack—you’re here already but follow me for more thought daughter musings on Mixxed!
I’m sat.