The girls are back in the supermarket again, only this time it is not for matcha or iced coffee, but carrots.

Somewhere between green juices and wellness habits, carrot juice has quietly become the drink of the moment. Bright, slightly chaotic in colour and suddenly everywhere.

It is the latest addition to the ever-turning wellness rotation. One week it is chia seeds, the next it is chlorophyll water, and now it is carrots in a glass. Always simple. Always “good for you”. Always slightly viral.

So why now. And more importantly, why carrots?

The question is, is this actually doing anything, or is this just the latest version of matcha in a different shade? Either way, I’m curious.

When Did Carrots Become a Thing?

Somehow, carrot juice has made its way into everyone’s kitchen.

It is not a niche habit anymore. It is everywhere.

Aisha Potter is one of the names behind this moment. Her carrot juice content did not just circulate, it stuck. It became something people wanted to try for themselves.

Girls started making it at home. Supermarkets quietly entered the trend cycle. Carrots stopped being just carrots and became something else entirely.

Aisha Potter did not just post a drink. She made it a ritual.

So This is What Carrot Juice is in People’s Lives Now

It is less about carrots and more about why this one has stuck.

Carrot juice has become one of those small wellness habits that actually makes it into the routine. Not a full lifestyle change, just something simple enough to repeat.

It is easy. It does not ask much. It fits into a morning without needing planning or effort, which is often what decides whether something lasts or not.

It is easier than a matcha run. One supermarket trip and you are done.

Is Carrot Juice The New Matcha?

It feels familiar.

Not long ago, it was matcha. Matcha lattes, matcha routines, matcha everywhere. It became the drink that signalled you were “doing wellness”.

Then it became so everywhere that even Hailey Bieber, known for shaping modern beauty and wellness trends, called it overrated in a recent TIME interview. And like most things in wellness, once something tips into overexposure, it starts to move on.

Carrot juice feels like the quieter follow-up. Less of a moment, more of a swap that slipped in. Still simple. Still aesthetic. Still easy to make or pick up.

The question is not really whether carrot juice is the new matcha. It is whether we are just cycling through the same thing again, one drink at a time.

The Benefits

Carrot juice is naturally rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This is often linked with skin health, vision and general immune support. It is also associated with a natural-looking glow, which is why it keeps appearing in wider wellness conversations.

It can be an easy way to add vitamins and antioxidants into the day, especially when fresh vegetables are not always the centre of every meal. Because it is a juice rather than whole carrots, it is lower in fibre, but still contributes to overall nutrient intake as part of a balanced diet.

It is not a quick fix or a transformation in a glass, more a small, steady habit that adds something useful in the background over time.

As always, it works differently for everyone.

Carrot Juice Recipe

2–3 carrots, an apple, a small piece of ginger, a squeeze of lemon and a splash of water to help blend.

Blend or juice everything together, strain if you prefer a smoother texture, and serve cold over ice.

Simple, slightly sweet, and very much in its era.

The girls will probably move on again soon.

From carrots, to whatever comes next in the rotation, wellness rarely stays still for long. It shifts, quietly, from one thing in a glass to another.

Maybe it will stick. Maybe it will sit in the fridge next to the rest of the trends that came before it.

I’ve been thinking about what it really means to be a chic woman.

Not the kind you scroll past for a second and forget. The kind you remember. The kind who walks into a room and nothing feels forced, yet everything feels considered. The kind who orders a drink without hesitation, who knows exactly what suits her, who never looks like she tried too hard but somehow always gets it right.

And I keep coming back to this. Being chic has very little to do with what you buy.

It’s About How You Choose

Because anyone can follow a trend. Anyone can wear what’s popular this week. But not everyone knows how to edit, how to hold back, how to create a life that feels intentional rather than impulsive.

A chic woman understands that. She doesn’t chase everything. She selects.

She knows that taste is built quietly. In the way she dresses, yes, but also in the way she speaks, the spaces she spends time in, the things she says yes to and more importantly the things she doesn’t.

There’s a certain calmness to her. Not because life is perfect, but because she has decided what matters. And that shows.

The Details Always Reveal Everything

You can see it in her wardrobe. It isn’t overflowing, it’s refined. Pieces that work together, colours that make sense, fabrics that feel good against the skin. She doesn’t need ten versions of the same thing. She needs the right one.

You can see it in her routine. She takes care of herself, not in a loud or performative way, but in small consistent choices. Clean skin, brushed hair, a scent that lingers just enough. Nothing excessive, nothing missing.

You can see it in her energy. She isn’t trying to impress everyone in the room. She isn’t seeking approval. There’s a quiet confidence that comes from knowing herself, from trusting her own eye.

Money Can’t Buy Taste

And maybe that’s what people get wrong. They think being chic is about looking expensive, but money can’t buy taste.

It can buy options, it can buy access, it can buy things. But it cannot teach you how to put them together in a way that feels effortless. It cannot teach you restraint. It cannot teach you presence.

Taste is developed. It comes from paying attention, from noticing what works, what feels right, what aligns with the life you actually want to live.

Becoming Her

A chic woman is always refining. She evolves, she edits, she lets go of what no longer fits. Not just in her wardrobe, but in her habits, her environment, her mindset.

She understands that style is just one part of the picture. The way she spends her mornings, the way she moves through the city, the way she carries herself when no one is watching. It all adds up.

And maybe being chic isn’t about becoming someone new, maybe it’s about removing what isn’t you. Stripping things back until what’s left feels honest, effortless and entirely your own. Because the women we all think of as chic aren’t copying anyone else. They’ve simply mastered the art of being themselves, with intention.

And that’s what makes them unforgettable.

Modern dating is confusing. Sometimes I wonder how we went from romcoms and fairytales to talking stages and situationships, but I guess that’s what the modern dating scene looks like now.

These days, the term situationship is used to describe relationships that exist somewhere in the grey area, not quite casual but not quite committed either. But sometimes what we call a situationship isn’t actually that at all.

Sometimes it’s just a bad situation you’re in.

So how do you tell the difference?

What a Situationship Actually Is

A situationship, at its core, is a relationship that exists somewhere in the grey area. It is more than casual, but not quite committed either. There might be dates, late-night conversations and a level of emotional closeness, but the relationship itself remains undefined.

In modern dating, situationships have become surprisingly common. Sometimes they happen because neither person is ready for something serious, or because both people are simply enjoying the connection without putting a label on it. In some cases, that can work if both people are truly on the same page about what it is.

The key difference is mutual understanding. A real situationship is not built on confusion or mixed signals. It is two people knowingly existing in that in-between space.

Signs It’s Actually a Bad Situation

But sometimes what we call a situationship is not actually that at all. Sometimes it is simply a bad situation that we are trying to romanticise.

One of the biggest signs is the constant avoidance of clarity. The conversations about where things are going never quite happen and every time the topic comes up it is brushed off, joked about or postponed for another day. Weeks or even months can pass and nothing really changes.

Another sign is inconsistency. One week the attention feels exciting and promising and the next week the effort disappears completely. Plans revolve around their schedule, communication feels unpredictable and you slowly realise that you are investing far more energy than you are receiving.

Over time the emotional impact becomes obvious. You start analysing every text, questioning every interaction and wondering if you are expecting too much. But a healthy connection should not leave you constantly uncertain about where you stand.

Confusion is not chemistry. It is often a warning sign.

Why People Stay in These Dynamics

If the signs are there, why do so many people stay?

Often it comes down to hope. Hope that things will eventually become clearer. Hope that with a little more time the relationship will naturally shift into something more defined. When there are moments of connection or affection it becomes easy to focus on those highlights and ignore everything in between.

There is also the quiet pressure that modern dating brings. Friends might say to give it time. Social media constantly reminds us that relationships today rarely follow a clear path. So you start wondering if you are being impatient or expecting too much. You tell yourself that maybe this is just how things are now.

But at some point it is worth asking yourself an honest question. Is this hope, or is this effort? Because a real connection should not rely on one person holding onto potential while the other remains comfortably undecided.

When It’s Time to Walk Away

At some point you have to stop focusing on what the relationship could become and start paying attention to what it actually is. Potential can be seductive. It makes you believe that with a little more patience, a little more understanding or a little more time, things might finally fall into place.

But real relationships are not built on possibility. They are built on clarity, effort and mutual intention.

If you constantly feel unsure about where you stand, that uncertainty is already telling you something. The right connection will not leave you analysing every message or waiting for consistency that never quite arrives.

Because in the end, the right person will never make you feel like a question mark.

Before TikTok “It Girls,” created morning routines and Pinterest aesthetics, there was Sex and the City. The show introduced four distinct women who each embodied a unique version of the “It girl.” From Charlotte’s timeless elegance to Carrie’s fashion-forward individuality, they showcased confidence, style and self-expression, reshaping what it meant to be an “It girl” for a new generation.

Charlotte York: The Classic It Girl

As the Park Avenue princess, Charlotte York represents the classic “It Girl,” carrying herself with elegance and poise. Charlotte’s fashion in Sex and the City reflects timeless sophistication, often featuring tailored silhouettes, soft colours and feminine details. Her quest for love and fairy-tale romance resonates with audiences who admire her belief in true love and happily ever after, showing that grace and authenticity never go out of style.

Miranda Hobbes: The Ambitious It Girl

Miranda Hobbes shatters stereotypes as an ambitious go-getter balancing a high-powered career and personal life with sharp wit and a no-nonsense attitude. Miranda’s fashion in Sex and the City reflects her confident and independent personality. She often goes for sleek, minimalist looks, favouring tailored blazers, crisp shirts and well-fitted trousers in neutral tones. She adds subtle pops of colour through accessories like handbags or understated jewellery, reflecting her modern, professional style.

Samantha Jones: The Fearless It Girl

Samantha Jones embraces her sexuality with confidence, breaking taboos and redefining what it means to be a fearless woman. Her bold, liberated attitude makes her unapologetically independent, always in control of her life and relationships. Samantha’s fashion in Sex and the City mirrors her daring personality, often featuring form-fitting dresses, plunging necklines and eye-catching prints. She flaunts her curves with bold colours, statement accessories and luxurious fabrics. This type of It Girl shows that self-assurance and confidence are just as stylish as any outfit.

Carrie Bradshaw: The Original It Girl

Carrie Bradshaw is the ultimate “It Girl,” full of charm and curiosity. Her love of fashion, especially her iconic shoes, reflects her playful personality and bold approach to life. Each outfit she wears in Sex and the City tells a story, mixing patterns, textures and unexpected touches that make her unapologetically herself. Carrie shows that being an It Girl is about more than clothes; it is about creativity and embracing your quirks, inspiring a generation to take risks and express themselves.

“Sex and the City” redefined the “It girl” for a new generation. From Charlotte’s classic beauty to Samantha’s fearless attitude, each character showed us that being an “It girl” is about confidence, individuality and living unapologetically. Here’s to the Charlotte’s, Miranda’s, Samantha’s and Carrie’s of the world, may we all channel our inner “It girl” with style, grace and a touch of sass.

Energy dips, bloating, skin flare-ups and feeling “off” for no obvious reason are often quiet signs your gut needs more support. These issues aren’t about doing more. They’re usually about returning to a few foundational habits that actually work.

Below are the gut health habits wellness girls consistently rely on to feel lighter, more balanced and in tune with their bodies.

Herbal supplements for gut support

Herbs like ginger, peppermint, turmeric and liquorice root have always belonged in everyday wellness. Think a warm peppermint tea after dinner or ginger tea on slower mornings. These simple rituals help keep your gut feeling balanced, without overcomplicating wellness.

Apple cider vinegar for gut balance

Apple cider vinegar is a quiet gut health staple. Starting your day with it diluted in water or taking it as a gummy can help support digestion and gut balance. It works by gently supporting stomach acid levels, which can help your body break down food and absorb nutrients more easily. Think of it as a small morning ritual that sets your gut up for the day ahead.

Probiotics and fermented foods

Probiotics are the good bacteria your gut loves. Foods like yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut and kombucha help support digestion and nutrient absorption in a natural way. Adding probiotic rich or fermented foods to your routine can help your gut feel happier and leave you feeling more balanced overall.

Fibre for the win

Fibre is one of those wellness basics that quietly does the most. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts supports the good bacteria in your gut, helping everything run more smoothly. Over time, this variety supports digestion, immunity and how you feel day to day.

Keeping your gut happy doesn’t need a full routine reset. A few simple habits, done consistently, can quietly change how you feel in your body and your day.

Healthy skin is not about buying more products, it is about using the right ones in the right order. When you focus on the key steps and ingredients that match your skin type, your skin starts to glow. Here is a straightforward guide to building a skincare routine that actually works.

Know your skin type

Before diving into products it’s important to understand your skin type because it determines what will work best for you.

Dry Skin: Often feels tight flaky and looks dull. Needs hydrating and moisture-rich products.

Oily Skin: Appears shiny with larger pores and frequent breakouts. Needs oil-balancing products that reduce shine.

Combination Skin: Oily in some areas (usually the T-zone) and dry in others. Needs a balanced approach.

Sensitive Skin: Easily irritated prone to redness and reactive to certain products. Needs gentle soothing formulas.

Normal Skin: Even tone balanced hydration and generally problem-free. Can tolerate a wide range of products.

Understanding key skin ingredients

A great routine starts with knowing what each ingredient actually does for your skin. Think of these as the modern it girl essentials:

Salicylic Acid: Your go-to for unclogging pores and keeping breakouts under control.

Niacinamide: The calming superstar that evens tone, smooths texture and supports your skin barrier.

Hyaluronic Acid: The hydration hero that keeps your skin dewy, plump and moisturised.

The essentials steps in a skincare routine

Step one: Cleanser

A good cleanse is the foundation of every It Girl routine. It removes makeup, sweat and buildup so your skin can actually absorb the rest of your products.

Step two: Toner

Toners help rebalance your skin after cleansing. They sweep away any leftover residue tighten the look of pores and give your skin a fresh base for the next steps. A good toner also helps your serums sink in more smoothly.

Step three: Serum

Serums are the treatments in your routine. They target specific concerns like brightness hydration or breakouts. Because they are lightweight and concentrated they deliver fast visible results.

Step four: Moisturiser

Moisturiser seals everything in. It keeps your skin soft hydrated and protected throughout the day. Even oily skin needs moisture to stay balanced and avoid excess shine.

Step five: sunscreen

Sunscreen is the non negotiable final step. It protects your skin from sun damage prevents dark spots and keeps your complexion youthful over time. No routine is complete without it.

These tips are just a guide to help you glow. Everyone’s skin is unique, so always patch-test new products and check with a dermatologist if you have specific concerns.

Social media constantly reshapes beauty standards, and the ‘Clean Girl Aesthetic’ has quickly become a popular trend. Known for its polished, minimalist look with glowing skin and slicked-back hair, this style is linked to effortless elegance. But beyond the TikTok tutorials and Instagram posts, is it just a passing trend, or has it become a lasting lifestyle choice?

What is the Clean Girl Aesthetic?

The clean girl aesthetic romanticises self-care and personal improvement. It reflects a less is more mindset, preferring a fresh, natural look over full glam. This includes light makeup that enhances rather than covers up, creating a simple, fresh-faced look. Dainty jewellery, like thin necklaces and small earrings, is preferred over chunky accessories. Hair is typically styled in a sleek ponytail or a slicked-back bun, giving off an effortless yet polished vibe.

The Clean Girl Aesthetic: Fashion and Wellness

The wardrobe features a simple colour palette dominated by neutral tones like soft greys, whites, baby blues and beiges. Clothing is chosen for comfort and versatility, with staples such as leggings and plain t-shirts. Beyond fashion, many who follow this aesthetic engage in activities promoting well-being, such as yoga, gym workouts and journaling. Clean eating, staying hydrated and smoothies are key to the lifestyle, promoting wellness.

Many encourage waking up early, maintaining productivity and looking put together. This isn’t just about appearance, it’s also about creating a clutter-free living space, staying organised with planners and creating routines that inspire growth. However, one must consider whether it is realistic to maintain the clean girl aesthetic as a long-term lifestyle. Can anyone truly be perfect all the time?

The Clean Girl Aesthetic: A Trend?

There’s no denying the aesthetics’ rise thanks to platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Social media has made it easy to share quick, visually appealing content that showcases the aesthetics’ core elements, simple outfits, fresh makeup looks and routines. Viral challenges focusing on morning routines, skincare and self-care have only added to its popularity, making it feel like a temporary trend.

Many people adopt this look to fit in, gain likes, or try something new. This temporary appeal makes it easy to view the Clean Girl Aesthetic as just another trend. Additionally, the emphasis on buying new clothes to fit the aesthetic raises questions about sustainability.

More Than a Look: A Lifestyle Choice?

For many, the clean girl aesthetic is more than just a look, it’s a lifestyle. It promotes a commitment to self-care and improvement. Those who genuinely embrace this often spend time and energy on their well-being, developing habits that go beyond basic trends. The aesthetic encourages mental and emotional health practices such as meditation, reflecting a bigger commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Whether the clean girl aesthetic is viewed as a trend or a lifestyle depends on the individual. For some, it may be a passing phase driven by social media, while for others, it becomes a meaningful approach to living that promotes self-care. It is important to remember that the clean girl aesthetic does not have to equal to perfection, rather, it focuses on making sustainable choices that leads to improvement and well-being.

In fashion, entertainment and culture, “It Girl” has a special charm. It makes us think of style and influence. But what exactly is an “It Girl,” and why are we so drawn to them? Today, we look at the “It Girls” from different eras to see what makes them stand out.

Defining the “It Girl”

The term “It Girl” first became popular in the early 20th century by author Elinor Glyn in her 1927 novel “It.” Glyn described “It” as a special quality that’s hard to describe or define. A mysterious quality by certain individuals that sets them apart, a charm that catches people’s attention and admiration. Since then, the term now includes women who have a special mix of style, personality, and influence. They easily capture people’s imaginations and start new trends.

The aura of the “It Girl”

What is it about “It Girls” that interests us so deeply? Perhaps it’s their natural sense of confidence and their effortlessly cool aura. Or maybe it’s their fashion creating trends with their every step. Whatever the reason, “It Girls” have a magnetic charm that lasts forever and touches many generations.

Iconic It Girls Throughout the Eras

Clara Bow (1920s)

In the Twenties, film star Clara Bow captured the hearts of millions with her charm and lively spirit. Known as the original “It Girl,” Bow represented the carefree style, changing ideas about beauty and showing how women were becoming more free after the war.

Audrey Hepburn (1950s)

The epitome of grace and elegance, Audrey Hepburn charmed audiences in the 1950s with her timeless beauty and flawless style. From her iconic role in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Later in life, she also did a lot of good for others. Her lasting legacy as an “It Girl” continues to inspire many with her easy style and kindness towards others.

Twiggy (1960s)

With her boyish charm, British model Twiggy became the face of the Swinging Sixties, embodying the spirit of youth culture and rebellion. Her unique style and cutting-edge fashion changed the fashion world, making her a symbol of that time.

Madonna (1980s)

In the bright and colourful 1980s, Madonna became the ultimate “It Girl,” pushing boundaries with her provocative style and fearless attitude. From her groundbreaking music videos to her boundary-pushing fashion choices, she represented change, encouraging many fans to be themselves.

Kate Moss (1990s)

With her thin body and carefree attitude, British supermodel Kate Moss became the poster child for 90s grunge chic. Her effortless blend of high fashion and streetwear captured the current mood of the era, confirming her status as the most typical “It Girl” of the decade.

Zendaya (Present)

In today’s world, actress Zendaya reflects the modern “It Girl” with her red carpet looks and popular role in “Euphoria.” Since her childhood days as a Disney Channel star, Zendaya has been a public favourite, consistently capturing attention and admiration.

Another notable mention is Bella Hadid, loved for her trend-setting street style, high fashion sense and commitment to social justice. She has many qualities of an It Girl, combining style, influence and activism.

From Clara Bow to Zendaya, “It Girls” have left a mark on culture and society. While the faces may change and the trends may evolve, the aura of the “It Girl” remains.

People love to say new year, new me, but for Vels Visions, I actually meant it.

If you’ve noticed a few changes, that’s because Vels Visions has officially moved to Substack. This is where the writing lives now.

Think opinion pieces, daily advice worth saving, and thoughts you’d probably underline if this were a column. The kind of pieces you read with a coffee in one hand and your phone in the other.

For the unapologetically chic woman. You know who you are.

Welcome to Vels Visions.