Where did our summer go? How is it already time to prepare our children to go back to school? Whether they’re going to school or being taught at home, it’s time to prepare a shopping list.
Every school year is a blank slate. It’s a fresh start to guide our little ones to get the best out of their education. But before that, we have to put our best foot forward and set them up for success. What do kids need this year? What has changed since last year? To keep things in order, here’s a list of the five shopping ideas for school-related activities and supplies.
From healthy recipes to lunchboxes, here’s what you should put on your kid’s back-to-school shopping list.
Healthy Recipes
Let’s start with Mama’s mind, shall we? Healthy Kids, Happy Kids is a book about empowering your kids to make healthier choices. The synopsis reads: “Complete with helpful quizzes, exercises, protocols, and dozens of delicious, gut-friendly recipes, Healthy Kids, Happy Kids is a comprehensive, yet simple roadmap to raising resilient kids in our not-so-simple world.”
First and Last Day of School Sign Board
Who doesn’t love a memorable photo of your child’s first and last day of school? While they roll their eyes or make silly faces while taking the photo, they’ll thank you for taking these photos one day!
Colored Pencil Kits
Sharpening colored pencils is a thing of the past! With the Crayola® Twistables Colored Pencil Kit, children will have non-stop creative time to color in and outside the lines.
Unique Backpack
Buying a sturdy, unique backpack will help you spot your child from afar. One of our favorites is the STATE Bags Kane Kids Backpack. The backpack is described as having a spacious compartment, organizational pockets, and even a side water bottle pocket.
Lunchbox
Kids love their snacks. With different pockets, an internal mesh pocket, and an all-around zipper closure, this lunchbox can be the right choice for you.
What’s on your must-buy shopping list this school year?
Just like we listen to our mental health, it’s important to listen to what our physical body needs. Is your skin too dry? Too oily? Are your skin’s needs shifting depending on your menstrual cycle? You’re not overthinking it – it most likely is.
Turns out, our menstrual cycle dictates our skin’s needs more than we may think. And instead of fighting it or ignoring it, Miami-born Peruvian entrepreneur Alexia Coutts’ skincare brand Muhza is at the forefront of connecting our skincare to the needs of our body’s menstrual cycle. Because, believe it or not, every cycle’s need is different.
Modern Muze spoke to the 27-year-old Latina creative about Muhza’s foundation and goal for it to not only be about skincare, but a “a deeper sense of connection” with your body. Here’s how the conversation went.
How do your Peruvian roots influence Muhza?
Peru is full of rituals that honor nature’s rhythms, and that way of living has always stayed with me. From an early age, I saw care modeled as something slow, grounded, and intentional. That shaped how I think about wellness, especially for women. Muhza carries that influence in how we formulate, how we think about cycles, and how we connect care back to the body in a meaningful way.
How long have you been working on Muhza’s products? When was it officially formed?
We spent over two years developing the formulas in collaboration with a certified manufacturing lab and launched the brand earlier this year. It was a research-heavy process focused on how the skin shifts during each phase of the menstrual cycle. Every decision was intentional, from ingredient selection to how each formula flows into the next. The goal was to create a complete system that works in sync with your body week by week, not just as individual products.
What’s your skin care routine like and how do you incorporate your product into it?
My routine moves with my cycle. During menstruation, I use Muna to hydrate and support the skin barrier with ingredients like peptides, probiotics, and hyaluronic acid. In the follicular phase, Puri gently exfoliates using fruit acids and mandelic acid to encourage renewal. Ovulation is when I turn to Qori to balance oil and protect the skin with bakuchiol and licorice root. In the luteal phase, Ayni helps calm inflammation with salicylic acid, lactic acid, and soothing actives. I created the line so each formula responds to what the skin is naturally doing, rather than working against it.
That healing starts with awareness. My skin was what pushed me to get diagnosed with PCOS. I was breaking out constantly, inflamed, and exhausted. Once I began tracking my cycle, I noticed patterns in my mood, energy, and especially my skin. That is what led me to cycle syncing and eventually to starting Muhza. The biggest shift was learning to listen, because our skin is always communicating. When you pay attention, it becomes easier to support it with intention.
What makes Muhza different from other skincare brands?
Most skincare routines are static, but Muhza is built to be dynamic. We formulate based on what your skin actually needs at each point in the menstrual cycle. That means exfoliating when skin is more resilient, calming when it is inflamed, and hydrating when it is thin or dry. Each product is formulated with clean, vegan, hormone-safe, and clinically supported ingredients, and is gentle enough to use throughout every phase of the cycle. But just as important, they work together. The system flows in sequence, respecting what came before and preparing for what comes next.
What challenges as a Latina entrepreneur have you faced?
As a young Latina founder in the beauty space, it can be hard to be taken seriously at first glance. I’ve had to make sure every decision is backed by strategy, research, and intention because I know I’m not always going to get the benefit of the doubt. But I also think coming from a different lens is an advantage. It lets me build differently, from a place that’s both personal and precise.
What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs as a Latina in the skincare industry?
Trust your perspective. You don’t have to conform to how others have done it before you. The beauty industry needs new voices, new ideas, and new ways of thinking. Your background isn’t a barrier, it’s a foundation. Lean into it, even when it feels uncomfortable. And know that being underestimated can sometimes be your greatest advantage.
Tell us about your goal with Muhza and what you hope the audience gets from the brand.
Muhza was created to do more than treat hormonal skin concerns. Each product is designed to help women reconnect with their bodies and embrace the cycles that shape them. Our skin is constantly shifting, just like we are, and instead of working against that, Muhza encourages us to work with it. At the end of the day, I hope women walk away feeling more in tune, more empowered, and more supported in their skin.
Every season is a good season to pick up a book. Whether you’re into romance or historical fiction, there’s always an exciting choice to look forward to. Now, more than halfway through the year, we’re narrowing down our favorite and most anticipated books written by Latinas in 2025.
The hype is real for talented authors like Emily Henry and Abby Jimenez this year. But sometimes, we want to connect more with the author from a Latina POV. So, if you’re looking to find a new read from Latina authors, look no further. We’ve got you covered.
From Isabel Allende’s My Name is Emilia Del Valle to the upcoming release of Brenda Lozano’s Mothers: A Novel, here are five exciting books to put on your TBR list ASAP.
My Name is Emilia Del Valle by Isabel Allende
Released on May 6, Allende’s newest book, My Name is Emilia Del Valle, is described as: “A riveting tale of self-discovery and love from one of the most masterful storytellers of our time, ‘My Name Is Emilia del Valle’ introduces a character who will never let hold of your heart.” Genres: Literary Fiction and Historical Fiction.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DI4Ies-S_vF/?hl=en
When Javi Dumped Mari by Mia Sosa
Released on June 24, Sosa’s newest book is described as: “a fun and flirty rom-com about a pact between friends that goes awry when one of them unexpectedly announces they’re getting married.” Genres: Contemporary Romance.
Released on July 29, Moreno-Garcia’s newest book is described as: “Three women in three different eras encounter danger and witchcraft in this eerie multigenerational horror saga from the New York Times bestselling author of Mexican Gothic.” Genres: Gothic & Horror and Fantasy.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DMIEFBdNqPf/?hl=en
Gabriela and His Grace by Liana De la Rosa
The third installment of The Luna Sisters will be released on August 26. It is described as: “A scandalous arrangement between a hellion heiress and destitute duke reveals truths that neither can outrun.” Genres: Romance and Fiction.
Lozano’s upcoming book will be released on October 6. It is described as: “From the author of Witches, a gripping, kaleidoscopic tale of two women in 1940s Mexico—one whose daughter has just been kidnapped and another who has just adopted a little girl.” Genres: Historical Fiction and Women’s Fiction.
Jenna Ortega’s fashion is always on point. In past television show and film premieres, the Puerto Rican-American actress has left a mark on the red carpet—and it’s no different in this week’s Wednesday premiere. The world premiere took place at the Central Hall Westminster in London, England, on July 30.
Ortega fully embodies her character on screen and off-screen. She’s the type who stays on theme and lets her fashion talk as she graces the red carpet. Yesterday (July 30), the Latina actress dressed in a latex and snake-skin dress with fringe-like ends, styled by Enrique Melendez. She topped the look with stunning bleached eyebrows and wine-red lips, which really popped out thanks to her light-colored wardrobe. How’s that for catching everyone’s attention? Bleached eyebrows?! We loved it!
Social media users are praising Ortega’s look. An Instagram user, idvshik, wrote: “That snake skin looks amazing on you🥵 I can’t breathe.” Another Instagram user, ejayivanlac, wrote: “Every detail of this dress is tailored to every detail of your soul. This makes everything fascinating and intriguing 🌹🖤🌹.”
Here’s where and when to watch ‘Wednesday’
Ortega’s fashionable appearance is part of the promo for Wednesday’s second season, which premieres on August 6. The season is split into two parts: the first part premieres on August 6, and the second part premieres on September 3 via Netflix.
Wednesday’s second season is described as: “This season, Wednesday must navigate family, friends and old adversaries, propelling her into another year of delightfully dark and kooky mayhem. Armed with her signature razor-sharp wit and deadpan charm, Wednesday is also plunged into a new bone-chilling supernatural mystery.”
Check out Wednesday’s second season official trailer below.
We are deep in summer. Have you already scheduled end-of-summer gatherings by the pool or camp getaways? The clock is ticking! Need some soundtrack inspiration? We’ve compiled some must-hear tracks for your summer playlist to listen to while you’re getting ready for the beach or on your way to Puerto Rico for Bad Bunny’s historic residency.
It’s no secret that there have been many incredible music releases this year. From Bad Bunny’s DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS to Karol G’s Tropicoqueta, we’ve had some huge hits on our radar. But what other tunes are just as good?
From reggaeton, dembow to pop, here are five Latin songs featuring our favorite Latina stars to have on your summer playlist.
Bad Bunny, Chuwi – “WELTiTA”
The Puerto Rican icon Bad Bunny deserves all the awards this year. He single-handedly (well, with his collaborators) released an album that gave us nostalgia, traditional plena and bomba music, reggaeton, salsa, and more. With that being said, we recommend the tropical pop song “WELTiTA” featuring Puerto Rican group Chuwi and their talented vocalist, Lorén, for your summer playlist.
Karol G – “Un Gatito Me Llamó”
The Colombian queen Karol G didn’t play around with her latest album release. Though it’s no Mañana Será Bonito (remember everyone was in tears!), the nostalgic album gave us hits such as the catchy dembow “Un Gatito Me Llamó.”
Danna – “KHE CALOR”
The Mexican pop star Danna (Paola) is such a vibe. Besides the song being a reggaeton banger, have you seen the novela-inspired music video? It features reggaetonero El Malilla…. And yes, “KHE CALOR!”
Elena Rose, Justin Quiles – “COSITA LINDA”
This one is for the lovers out there! The Venezuelan singer Elena Rose teamed up with Puerto Rican-American singer Justin Quiles on their new collaboration “COSITA LINDA.”
KORDELYA – “crisis EXistencial”
Mexican singer KORDELYA is such a hidden gem. Her bilingual lyrics, chill pop vibes, and mesmerizing vocals are perfect to add to your summer playlist.
Have you been feeling emotionally drained lately? You’re not alone. With so many unfortunate situations going on, it’s hard to catch a break. If you’re feeling this way, we invite you to take a social media detox—and don’t worry, we have ideas for other media to consume.
Sometimes, you need to give your brain a rest. Sure, it’s easy to doom scroll, but after wasting hours absent-mindedly on social media, it starts getting problematic. Tiresome, even. The other day, I spent a whole hour scrolling on TikTok, and what’s crazy is that I don’t remember half the media I watched. That was a hard wake-up call for me.
If that sounds familiar, let’s shake it off. It’s time to elevate your media game and consume other types of entertainment. From reading cheesy romance books to watching a movie with loved ones, here are five ways to disconnect and embrace a social media detox.
Go to your local library and pick up a new book
Reading physical books has always been that girl. But hey, e-readers are great too. I tend to bounce back and forth between the two media forms, depending on my mood. Now, more than ever, there are different forms to consume books. From using Libby, to listening to audiobooks, you have the freedom to enjoy literature in various ways. The best thing about it? It’s a solid conversation starter and great for small talk!
Listen to vinyl records
Another way of consuming media without being on social media is by listening to physical music. If you don’t have a record player at home, why not go on a solo date to your local record store?
Research a curious topic
When we say social media detox, it’s not stopping going online altogether. There are many websites that cater to cool topics worth reading about. If you tend to only go online to a social media app, we invite you to visit other websites. Go down the rabbit hole!
Go to the theaters
We’re living in a great theater era—I’ll tell you why. In major cities like Los Angeles, there has been an increase in cinema events that are featuring themed marathons, movie clubs, and even showing throwback films on rooftops. For those who are interested in movies, check if there’s an event near you. And for those who live in Orange County, I suggest looking up The Frida Cinema, where they have a calendar full of events to choose from.
Visit and support your local art museum
Sure, social media photos and videos are at your fingertips, but supporting your local artists is equally (if not more) satisfying. Take a break from social media—often now AI-generated—images, and check out human-made art!
In case you didn’t know, we celebrate National Mango Day this week! On July 22, we celebrate one of our favorite fruits—but hey, why not make it all week long?
Mangos are one of the most versatile fruits. You can consume it in different forms: mango with Tajín, mango ice cream, mango smoothies… but beyond eating or drinking it, did you know you can also use it in wellness products like face masks? That’s because mangoes are known to hydrate your skin. So if you don’t have mango products in your night routine, maybe it’s time to get into it. Don’t know how to elevate your mango game? We got you.
From mango wellness shots to mango-infused sheet masks, here are five ways to celebrate National Mango Day and week, rather!
Mango wellness shots
Shots anyone? Mango and ginger wellness shots can help your gut. By mixing banana, lemon, ginger, a frozen mango, and water, this TikTok creator made mango-infused wellness shots that promote glowing skin.
Mango leaves are packed with nutrients. Many people put mango leaves in their tea to help with anti-inflammation, to manage diabetes, and to treat stomach ulcers, per Healthline.
In 2018, I remember experiencing harsh respiratory problems from the air pollution in Manila, Philippines. Leaves from the branches of large mango trees were at arms reach from the balcony of our airbnb. My mom took those leaves and made them into a tea for me. “Just trust me, it’ll help you.” And she was right. Drinking this tea brought such intense relief. I’m realizing this as I’m writing it, this is one of my first times I’ve experienced and acknowledged the healing benefits from plants. A beautiful moment that sparked my curiosity into the vast and healing power of Mother Nature. I am grateful that in my travels to Florida, I am in closeness again with the mango tree as she provides me with healing nourishment in her leaves and fruit. A natural reliever for anyone who experiences: • Diabetes • Respiratory issues • High blood pressure • Gall and Kidney stones Its richness in plant compounds provides anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, regulates metabolism, heals wounds, and supports skin and hair health. I share this knowledge as a reminder to look around you. To question and to make assessment on what your body needs. There is medicine in your backyard. Show Her love and She will always provide.🌿 #health#plantmedicine#mangoleaftea#mangoleaf#foraging#florida#holisticwellness#tea
Another way to incorporate mangos in your wellness routine is by using mango-infused eye cream. It’s used in creams because mangos are a source of mangiferin (antioxidant), vitamin E, vitamin A, and vitamin C that help your skin. Curious to try it out? Check out this Latina-owned replenishing mango and aguacate eye cream here.
Mango butter
Mango butter has its benefits! This is an alternative to cocoa butter products. It helps your skin retain moisture, per the aforementioned source. Curious to try it out? Check out this Latina-owned mango body butter product here.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DCr0jghSE2N/
Mango sheet masks
As mentioned before, mangos are a great source of hydration thanks to their natural oils and extracts. Plus, who doesn’t like the fruit’s sweet smell?
Coffee is more than just an aesthetic morning drink—it’s a way of pouring back into ourselves. It’s an intentional moment where we could take time out of a busy work schedule to check in with our mood. How’s the day looking? When can we take mental breaks to show up as our best selves today? Are you OK?
As a Latina, coffee is deeply rooted in our culture. It’s a self-care ritual that we often utilize to boost our energy or simply as a treat with our loved ones. And as we grow older, it’s becoming more of a wellness practice that dates back generations. I remember when I was little, I’d ask myself why my tías would spend hours drinking late-night coffees as they talked about their lives. Surely they have better things to do. But now, I’m confident they were on to something. They were showing the next generation how coffee is a way of claiming slow living. Of stopping time to convivir with the ones who matter the most. Of taking back time.
Now, as adults, let’s take a look at how we can use coffee breaks as time to reflect and be intentional—just as our abuelitas intended.
Use coffee breaks as a calm, mental check-in
Mornings don’t have to be rushed. Like our ancestors, why not make it a calm ritual? As you make your morning coffee, give yourself grace and ask yourself how today’s looking. How are you feeling today? What are the main tasks to realistically get done today? And no, it’s not selfish, it’s much-needed “you” time.
Using coffee to “take the edge off” is a way to be intentional with your time. It’s an opportunity to stop the chaos surrounding us and realign with your day.
Another self-care practice is to reconnect and chismear with my loved ones is over a cup of coffee. Whether it’s at someone’s home or visiting a new Latin-owned coffee spot—the bond over this drink is special. A bonus? Whether you’re drinking coffee with your abuela or with your bestie, a cafecito moment can boost your energy and mood.
It’s Bad Bunny season! The Puerto Rican icon started his “No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí” residency in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The first dates took place from July 11 to 13 – and the outfits did not disappoint. Let’s just say that the Boricuas showed up with stunning outfits that set the residency’s tone. Need some outfit inspiration for the historic ‘No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí’ Residency?
Ever since Bad Bunny announced his residency at the beginning of the year, fans have been wondering what the outfit theme would be. Was it going to be Un Verano Sin Ti style with bright colors and in beach attire? Or was it going to be more dark and streetwear like in the “Most Wanted Tour” era? Turns out it’s a whole different vibe. One that echoes Puerto Rican culture.
From long white skirts to Puerto Rico’s flag colors, here are five outfit inspirations for the ongoing “No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí” residency.
Long White Skirts
If you’ve seen videos, you will notice that Bad Bunny is highlighting plena and Bomba percussion players and dancers, giving us plenty of skirt inspo to fit the theme.
Check out this TikTok user’s white skirt for inspiration. Simple and chic.
Another idea is wearing dresses, skirts, or shirts with texture. I’m talking about crochet, fringes, layers, and more to make the outfit stand out. Check out this TikTok user’s textured outfits for inspo.
At the end of the day, Bad Bunny’s residency is a celebration of Puerto Rican excellence. Why not show love by wearing their flag’s colors? We love to see it.
Mexican singer-songwriter Natalia Lafourcade is growing her family! Earlier this week (July 7), the Latina icon opened up about her pregnancy. But her pregnancy reveal is a big deal if you’re a 30-something Latina like me. It gives hope and relief for those who aren’t quite ready for the commitment. Sound familiar?
There are many reasons why Latinas choose not to get pregnant in their early adulthood—and quite frankly, it’s time to stop giving reasons why or why not. Though it’s not realistic to stop the questions altogether, seeing Latina public figures like Lafourcade and Mon Laferte sharing their pregnancy after 35 is such an emotional cushion to me. It’s actually empowering.
Here’s why Lafourcade’s pregnancy means a lot more than a social media post for Latinas over 30.
Natalia Lafourcade’s Endearing Pregnancy Reveal
On Monday, Lafourcade shared the unexpected news with her fans. “Five months and we are still on tour, five months and we are still growing. There is a beautiful being inside my body and I did not expect this,” she wrote in Spanish on social media.
She continued: “What a gift of life at the same time that I sing and sing and continue singing for you my beautiful people. See you soon in Spain. In the meantime, we will continue to grow.”
In the same post, she also shared photos of her growing belly, demonstrating how the body changes during the beautiful stages of pregnancy.
How Lafourcade’s Pregnancy Opens Conversations
Growing up in a Mexican household, motherhood is expected and almost pressured before 30. But as life happens, it turns out that I’m now in my early thirties, and I’m still contemplating pregnancy. Is it bad to get pregnant after 35? Should I just get pregnant now? What if I can’t get pregnant later? And the new thought that haunts me every night: my parents are getting older – what if they don’t see their grandchild?
Although it’s medically known that pregnancy gets complicated and risky after 35, knowing that it’s being normalized to get pregnant later in adulthood gives me hope. I mean, I’m not blind to the risks either—it’s just hard to think that I have to rush certain stages of my life when I’m not mentally prepared to take care of anyone besides myself.
Honestly, I can write essays and essays on this topic. But to stick to the main point: seeing Lafourcade’s pregnancy post means so much than your everyday social media post. It’s empowering. It’s a game changer. Sure, she might have financial advantages. But with the proper care, should 30-something Latinas change their perspective on being “late” on their biological clock when it comes to getting pregnant after 35?
Personally, Lafourcade and Laferte’s pregnancy has helped ease my pregnancy anxiety. Maybe waiting until after 35 is the better option for me.
