Girlmood Newsletter: The May 25 Edit

Unapologetic Confidence, Glow-up Updates, and April Favorites

The Met Gala on Monday caused a delay in this week’s newsletter, but it was worth the wait. As a black woman, I was so inspired by the theme, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, a celebration of Black dandyism and the historical and cultural significance of Black style. It just aligns with this era I’m currently in of being refined, tailored, and leaning into my sophisticated Black American Culture, unapologetically. Since I’ve truly stepped into my elevated and tailored self, abundance has been flowing to me. I couldn’t be more excited for May. So much has come together this month, and all of the glow-up and self-improvement work I have been doing is starting to come together:

• I recently accepted a position with the St Louis Cardinals!

• My daughter is graduating from Kindergarten.

• My husband and I have been making great strides in our marriage (full disclosure here). Now he’s graduating with his degree and on his way to getting his Master’s.

• I’m down five pounds from eating in a calorie deficit and increasing my protein.

• I’ve been creating my network by attending events and getting to know aligned peers IRL.

• I’m turning 33 on the 22nd (yes, I’m a Gemini 😈) and have never felt more self-assured and confident.

• I’m building a beautiful community of like-minded women on social and IRL who are becoming the highest version of themselves.

April Favorites

Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 in Sunset / I use this as a tint moisturizer or a glowy primer for when I want full coverage. It’s a glowy tinted sunscreen with a luminous, dewy finish that primes for makeup, visibly evens tone & is clinically tested to deliver all-day hydration.

CND Solar Cuticle Oil / I have sworn by this oil for decades, literally 20+ years. I keep this cuticle oil in my purse, on my desk, and in my nail bag. It is so healthy for your nails, keeps your manicure lasting longer, and is non-greasy. I apply after every hand wash and before bed; it’s great for nail growth.

Coach Black Loafers / If you are looking for the perfect mid-luxury everyday shoe that’s not a sneaker or flat, this loafer is for you. It has taken me from the cold winters paired with dress socks to the spring elevated casual events. Summer will be no different.

Nutricost Whey Protein Isolate Powder / I mentioned I am down 5 pounds because of two things: eating in a calorie deficit and increasing my protein. I love this affordable protein powder to give a boost to my low-maintenance wellness routine. I have a code for you to take some $$$ off. Use the code KRISTA-10

Fenty Icon Velvet Liquid Lipstick in MVP / The effortless blurred lip look is my go-to. The Parisian-inspired beauty trend can be accomplished with a velvet lipstick. The blue-based red lip color is also what Rihanna wore at her infamous Super Bowl Performance.

Girlmood News

When It's Time to Say Goodbye: Garcelle Beauvais’ RHOBH Departure

Let's talk about knowing when to walk away. Garcelle Beauvais recently announced her departure from Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, and honestly, I’m not surprised, but I'm taking notes.

There's something powerful about recognizing when a situation no longer serves you. Garcelle didn't wait to be pushed out or for drama to consume her storyline—she made the decision on her terms. That's the difference between an exit and a graceful exit.

We've all been in environments where we felt that little voice whispering "it's time to go," whether it's a relationship, friendship, or career. The challenge isn't just recognizing that voice—it's having the courage to listen to it before circumstances force your hand.

Remember: leaving well preserves your dignity, your relationships, and your options for the future. The manner of your exit tells a story about who you are just as much as your contributions did.

Divine Timing: Why Waiting for Alignment Is Worth It

I'll never forget these months of unemployment—my bank account dwindling, the pressure mounting, and opportunity after opportunity coming my way that just... didn't feel right.

Every time I turned down a position that didn't align with my purpose, people thought I was crazy. "Just take the job!" they'd say. But deep in my soul, I knew better.

What I've learned is that alignment isn't a luxury; it's a necessity for long-term fulfillment. Those jobs I passed on? They would have drained my spirit while paying my bills, leaving me with financial security but empty of purpose.

When the right opportunity finally arrived, it felt like the universe had been saving it just for me. Everything I had been preparing for suddenly made sense.

Trust me when I say: what's meant for you will never miss you. The waiting period isn't wasted time, it's preparation time.

Shedeur Sanders Draft Day Prank of Unapologetic Excellence

The unfortunate Shedeur Sanders draft prank situation reminded me of something essential: never dim your light because it makes others uncomfortable.

When you know your worth and speak with confidence about your abilities, some people will try to label you as arrogant or tell you to "tone it down." But here's the truth—your confidence isn't the problem. Their insecurity is.

Women especially are socialized to downplay our accomplishments, to add qualifiers to our statements, to make ourselves smaller so others feel bigger. But what if we stopped doing that?

What if we spoke about our talents and achievements with the same certainty that men speak about theirs?

Your confidence isn't arrogance when it's backed by preparation, skill, and results. Own your excellence unapologetically.

My Saves & Shares

• Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life / Roxie Nafousi

• How to Stay High Vibe When Life Isn’t Giving: Protecting Your Energy In the Chaos / Hail Yes

• Level Up Your 2025: 7 Simple Steps to Reset Your Evening Routine / The Dream Bigger Podcast

• Choosing Alignment Over Ambition / She’s So Lucky

• Your Magic is in the work you are avoiding / To All The People