Hi {{first_name|friend}},
We think of aging as a physical process. And that’s where the money is flowing right now — into novel technologies attempting to rewind the physical process of aging.
“Rejuvenation sounds just as sci-fi as any of the ideas coming out of the longevity field, and yet there’s widespread agreement among scientists that the research has extraordinary potential,” says Susan Dominus, the New York Times Magazine writer whose 2023 piece on menopause helped to kickstart a larger convo. “The most vehement disagreements are not over whether cellular aging can be reversed, but how far scientists can push it.”
We’re talking about truly sci-fi stuff, but not everyone’s a believer; Eric Topol threw cold water on the article, saying it was over-the-top and “we have no proof that rejuvenation of a human organ is possible, no less the whole body, and there is risk of inducing cancer.” As for the customers of what will undoubtedly be astronomically expensive treatments, there are world’s aging autocrats, such as Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, as well as the tech elite. Dominus reports that Peter Thiel, Larry Ellison, and Sam Altman have “collectively invested billions” in pursuit of anti-aging.
But aging is also an exercise in acceptance and letting go. This is hard, unsexy work, and so inevitably people try to avoid it. Longevity doctors, biohacking, Botox, face lifts, something called XERF — all attempts to kick the can down the road.
Not everyone can come to terms with the fact that “decrepitude will set in,” as novelist Mary Gaitskill writes in the latest issue of Vogue. Even though she says that there are things about her appearance “that make me sad,” she also finds that “at age 71, I appreciate my body in a way I didn’t when it was stronger and more attractive. It is doing its best with the hand it was dealt, and that is far more than I ever before thought possible.”
Bye,
Your friends at Gloria
Image via @bo_yeong.
Every type of sandal is fair game this summer. Simple or bedecked with metal accents. Thick straps or slim. Dressy (mules) or casual (all the flip flops). The one thing we have noticed across the board, though, is a return to sensible heel heights. We took note of it first at Phoebe Philo, who made these totally unaffordable ones we unfortunately desire. Or these, from the cult fave designer Jamie Haller. Or these, from Loewe. Below, more low-heeled options for spring and summer in all sorts of styles and price points.
This spotted pair is pretty spectacular. Anonymous Copenhagen Sophie 20, $275.
A classic work shoe. Mansur Gavriel Patent Slingback Pumps, $223.
Heeled flip-flops are back (sorry!), and these have comfy footbeds for those of us who are old enough to have seen this trend before. Camper Kora Sandal, $170.
Cool and fashion-y. Me + Em Asymmetric Heel, $495.
A comfortable kitten heel in standout snakeskin. J.Crew Robin Slingback Heels, $228.
These spangly boho sandals are appealing. Naguisa Roses Sandal, $327.
The thick straps and heel make these actually wearable. Intentionally Blank Mazzy Stacked Heel, $194.
These are practical, but don’t look dowdy. Naturalizer Mila Dress Shoes, $126.
A reasonable wedge that gives off Maryam Nassir Zadeh vibes. Vincenza Java Wedges, $168.
Lovely and would go with almost everything. Margaux The MX 35 Sandal, $315.
A slim-strap sandal dressed up with a bit of silver hardware. Madewell The Mila Hardware Thong Sandal, $148.
These are stunning. Gianvito Rossi Mid-Heel Pumps, $493.
Super sexy. Schutz Tara Mule, $158.
An affordable leather mule with a cushioned insole. Quince Twist Mid-Heel Mule, $82.
Like an ultra-luxe Dr. Scholl's. Tod’s Buckled Slides, $272.
This pair is very cute. Alohas Liko Sandals, $191.25.
Madewell The Mila Hardware Thong Sandal, $148
Mansur Gavriel Patent Slingback Pumps, $223
Anonymous Copenhagen Sophie 20, $275
Tod’s Buckled Slides, $272
Camper Kora Sandal, $170
Alohas Liko Sandals, $191.25
Meet Lumia 2: a wearable you'll actually want to wear. Smart earrings that track 20+ health metrics (sleep, cycle, temperature, and readiness). Wear hoops, studs, or cuffs in three premium metals, or attach to almost any earring you own. 7+ days of battery life. Live on Kickstarter now.
Get up to 40% off while supplies last. Pre-order HERE! #partner
Widow’s Bay. Image via Apple TV.
TO WATCH On Apple TV tomorrow, Widow’s Bay is a spooky-absurdist series about a tiny New England village that may or may not be haunted. Of course, it’s filled with curious local characters (including one played by Jeff Hiller).
TO WEAR This sustainable brand has the best tanks and tees. They’re breathable, surprisingly soft, and come in cute cuts and colors. This T-shirt and tank top are our current favorites, and we’re considering adding these matching pants to the cart. Shop it all here. #partner
TO MAKE This quick salad is a great way to use fresh asparagus. Mint is our favorite herb for a salad; totally underrated.
TO LISTEN The four-part podcast Safe to Drink (from New Hampshire Public Radio) is about an Erin Brockovich-esque water contamination scandal and listening to it is like listening to a thriller. Fascinating, infuriating, educational.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 reviews are all going to land tomorrow. But does it matter what the critics think? • Because the critics hate (hate!) Michael, and it’s doing amazing at the box office. • Reading RFK Jr.’s diaries. • How much Substack writing is actually AI? • Speaking of AI and writing, this is wild.
SPECIAL OFFER FOR GLORIA SUBSCRIBERS
If you love designer bags, but don’t necessarily want to own them, Vivrelle is worth knowing about. It’s a membership that lets you borrow authentic luxury handbags starting at $139 a month. Carry what you want, swap when you’re ready. For Gloria readers, your first month is free with code GLORIA. #partner
*Gloria may receive an affiliate commission on purchases made through our newsletter.