From the Desk of Dara: Five Favorite Things - From Sneakers to Smoothies to Charm Necklaces

This week’s inspiration list is equal parts style, wellness ritual, and a few beauty things that make it all better. Some are old obsessions. Others are new discoveries that instantly earned a permanent spot in my rotation.

1. Moringa Powder in My Morning Smoothie

Lately I have been leaning into a green that is not kale and CERTAINLY not AG1 (iykyk). Moringa powder is my latest obsession, but honestly, it is not new to me. It is something that I have recently come back to. Moringa powder is emerging as a nutritional powerhouse with a growing body of scientific support behind it. Studies show that it may help modestly reduce blood sugar levels in both animal models and diabetic patients, thanks to bioactive compounds like quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and isothiocyanates. Linking to some of the health studies done here. Its anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant properties that are rooted in components such as flavonoids, phenols, and carotenoids have shown promise in reducing inflammation, protecting cardiovascular and hepatic health, and even neutralizing oxidative stress in cell and animal studies. Nutritionally, moringa leaves offer striking densities of essential vitamins and minerals, often exceeding oranges in vitamin C, milk in calcium, and bananas in potassium, which could aid in addressing nutrient deficiencies. It is earthy, nutrient-dense, and gives my smoothie that deep, lush green without the grassy bitterness. Into the Vitamix it goes in the afternoon (I drink smoothies in the afternoon, not for breakfast) with almond milk, my favorite protein, and half of a banana. This is the brand I use, organic and non-gmo.

2. Long Charm Necklaces

The pendulum has swung. Short stacks have had their moment. I have been layering my own collection of talismans, transformation suns, evil eyes for protection, a pop of color with our new emerald solar drop charm and so much more to come. I always love adding a one-off find picked up on travels into extra-long chain charm necklaces. It is less a trend and more a personal archive, which is why it works.

3. My Extra-Long Lariat Necklace

Speaking of length, my go-to this week is the extra-long lariat from my own line. It has a fluid, effortless movement that makes a T-shirt feel styled and an evening dress look intentional. It just adds an instant coolness to an outfit. I really can not explain it more than that. 

4. Miu Miu Sneakers

These have officially replaced every other sneaker in my wardrobe. Miu Miu has found the sweet spot between high-fashion and wear-all-day comfort. The proportions are just right, chunky enough to feel directional yet still sleek. I have been wearing them with everything from wide-leg jeans and pants, to denim skirts to my favorite re/done denim cut off shorts to the bermuda denim short trend. No notes.

5. IT Cosmetics Radiant Concealer and DS & Durga Debaser

Two beauty constants this week are IT Cosmetics Radiant Concealer and DS & Durga’s Debaser. The concealer actually brightens my undereyes without drying it out, the biggest hurdle I have found that most concealers can not overcome. It brightens without screaming makeup. Debaser is my scent armor. Fig, coconut milk, and vetiver in a way that feels like late summer in an art gallery. I get stopped every time I wear it.

Sometimes the week is less about reinventing everything and more about refining the constants. These five have been my constants.

xx DK