Christina Dillon-Hypolite

Purple looks GOOD on melanated skin. From deep plum, wine, and vampy violet to bright orchid, berry-purple, glossy tints, and sheer stains, I’m rounding up purple lip colors that can complement brown and deep skin tones. Whether you want a bold matte statement lip, an everyday berry wash, a juicy purple gloss, or something in between, these are the shades that caught my eye. Wear them straight from the tube, pair them with a brown or plum liner, or create your own ombré—the fun part about purple is just how many ways we can wear it.

These are the body lotions and moisturizers I reach for again and again to keep my skin soft, smooth, and moisturized. From lightweight everyday lotions to rich cocoa butter formulas and body oils for extra hydration and glow, these are my go-to body care products for dry skin, daily moisture, and layering into my regular skincare routine.

Somehow, I now know more Pokémon characters than I ever planned to know. My kids have been collecting character plushes for years, and every time I think we have enough, a new favorite appears. Pokémon, Sonic, Tails, Mario and all their little friends have slowly taken over my house. The funny part is, the kids act like these characters are brand new. Meanwhile, we grew up with half of them. So this is my running list of the plush characters my kids have loved, asked for and somehow convinced me we absolutely needed one more of.

I love a little bling, but I don’t believe every cute piece of jewelry needs a serious price tag. This is where I’m sharing my favorite affordable jewelry finds, from earrings and necklaces to bracelets, statement pieces and easy everyday accessories. Whether I’m dressing for work, going out or just adding a little something to an outfit, these are the budget-friendly pieces that give me the look without the splurge.

School gives them the foundation, but I’m a big believer in reinforcing skills at home too. These are the educational workbooks, learning tools and activities I use with my kids to supplement what they’re learning in the classroom, especially for building strong math foundations, writing skills and overall academic confidence. I’m not trying to recreate school at home. I just like having good resources on hand when I see a skill that needs a little more practice or when they’re ready to be challenged beyond what they’re currently working on.

The most satisfying squishies, fidget toys, and sensory finds all in one place. I’m rounding up cute slow-rise squishies, stress balls, squeeze toys, clickers, magnetic fidgets, sensory toys, and fun fidget sets for kids and adults. Whether you’re building a squishy collection, looking for something to keep your hands busy, shopping for classroom prizes and gifts, or just love a good satisfying fidget, these are the fun finds that caught my eye.

The candy we actually keep around the house. I buy the bulk sizes because between the kids, homework rewards, birthday parties, piñatas, Halloween trick-or-treaters and Mama occasionally needing something sweet, the little bags don't stand a chance. These are our family favorites that are easy to grab, share and keep stocked for whenever somebody deserves a treat...or just wants one.

Millennial mamas, we are entering our season. These are the vitamins and supplements that have earned a regular spot in my morning routine, from my everyday basics to the little extras I reach for when I want some additional support. Nothing complicated and definitely no miracle claims. Just the products I personally use as part of taking care of myself while taking care of everybody else.

Right next door to Metairie, but Kenner definitely has a personality of its own. From family fun and local landmarks to some seriously good food, these are the places that come to mind when I think of Kenner—not just places to pass on the way to the airport, but the spots, memories and everyday favorites that make Kenner feel like home.

Metairie may sit right outside New Orleans, but there’s plenty to do without heading into the city. These are places my family and I know, enjoy, or genuinely recommend, from kid-friendly outings and local eats to shopping, entertainment, and those little neighborhood spots you might miss if you don’t know where to look.

Mama Time is my collection of little things that make my rare moments to myself even better. From books and coffee favorites to candles, cozy finds, self-care treats, and things to listen to, these are my go-to picks for relaxing, recharging, and enjoying a little peace before somebody calls “Mama!” again.

Eczema has been part of our family's story for generations. These are the gentle cleansers, moisturizers, ointments, and everyday essentials we've actually reached for to care for dry, itchy, sensitive skin and help manage the day-to-day symptoms that come with eczema.

The products I reach for to care for my baby girl's textured hair - from wash day, detangling, moisturizing, and keeping curls healthy, defined, and manageable.

Skincare picks for hyperpigmentation, dark spots and uneven skin tone, with Vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, exfoliators, serums, moisturizers and SPF.