#ultimate guide

Whitetail - StarClan cat of unknown clan and rank

my credentials : @batmanbatmanbatman1 saying i smell good , my OLDER SISTER (every1 with older sisters knows this is the highest praise) asking for my routine

so, you wanna smell like a literal angel everytime you walk down your schools NASTY ASS hallway? dw. i gotchu.

1.) SHOWER 🧸ྀི

after using an unscented bar soap, use a body wash that matches your vibe , i use native's sugar cookie which is unfortunately only available during christmas, so make sure to stock up!

wash thoroughly, especially neck, underarms, behind ears, chest, inner thighs

use a loofah or washcloth if you can, it helps make the scent last longer

rinse well so your skin is clean and ready for layering

*side note* i exfoliate using a sugar scrub 2 times a week, either make one for your signature scent or find one, i use obx's coconut coffee scrub

2.) AFTER SHOWER🧸ྀི

first, body oil (on slightly damp skin) (i use a diy one made of coconut oil mixed with choco musk perfume)

apply a thin layer all over your body, focus on arms, legs, and collarbones

this locks in moisture and makes your scent last longer

next, a lotion layer

use a scented lotion that matches your vibe. i couldn't find one that i LOVE, so i mixed eos vanilla cashmere with my previously mentioned diy body oil

3.) SCENT LAYERING🧸ྀི

apply your main scent before you go out, i use my lotion / oil mix again on wrists, behind ears, neck, collarbones

next, use a dusting powder. this is optional but it makes A HUGE difference. i made mine using unscented baby powder and my body oil. lightly apply after lotion and oil on neck, chest, inner thighs, and underarms.

this helps absorb moisture, makes your skin soft as a dream, and keeps you smelling irresistable all day.

after that, spray your body mist and perfume. i use the body mist 'cotton candy clouds' from bbw which oddly goes PERFECT with my chocolate dessert theme.

as for perfume, i use choco musk, which is so marshmallow-y and soft.

4.) FINISHING TOUCHES AND TIPS🧸ྀི

deodorant (ALWAYS)

clean clothes with a matching detergent

brush hair and use a lightly scented hair mist

lip balm or gloss (adds to the put together vibe)

layer similar scent families (vanilla, caramel, and chocolate work PERFECT together)

apply perfume to pulse points / warm areas

reapply lightly duringthe day instead of overloading once

store perfumes in a cool place so they dont lose scent

an everything shower is a weekly necessity for all. let me give you an ultimate guide on how to do it . .

Aaand here is my final piece for @harriertail's Ultimate Guide Zine! I am extremely proud to have been a part of this project alongside so many talented artist and writers!

You know that moment. The one where you’re curled up with a favorite book, it’s a little gray outside, and you’re craving something warm, sweet, and deeply comforting. That’s the exact moment a perfect slice of buttermilk coffee cake was invented for.

It’s not just cake. It’s a hug in bakeware form.

What Makes This Cake So Special?

So, what’s the secret behind a truly unforgettable coffee cake? It’s not a single magic trick, but a harmony of a few key things.

First, there’s the crumb. We’re talking about a texture that’s impossibly tender and moist, yet still has a satisfyingly soft structure. Then, you have the signature streusel—that crunchy, cinnamony, brown sugar topping that provides the perfect contrast. And let’s not forget the potential for a sweet, swirly ribbon running right through its heart.

But the real MVP? The buttermilk. This humble ingredient is the workhorse that delivers a subtle tang and incredible tenderness you just can’t get with regular milk.

Speaking of secrets, if you're dreaming of that perfect crumbly streusel topping right now, you're going to want to see this. We found a legendary recipe that breaks it all down 👉 The Ultimate Buttermilk Coffee Cake Guide.

A Slice of Cozy History

The concept of coffee cake is a beautiful, old tradition. Think of European kitchens centuries ago, where a simple, not-too-sweet cake was served alongside a cup of coffee to visitors. It was about community and conversation.

The version we know and love today, with its decadent streusel and rich flavor, evolved into a staple of American bake sales and Sunday morning family gatherings. It’s a treat that feels both nostalgic and instantly gratifying.

The Hallmarks of a Perfect Buttermilk Coffee Cake

What are we really looking for in a top-tier slice? A few non-negotiables:

A Melt-in-Your-Mouth Crumb: The buttermilk reacts with baking soda, creating tiny bubbles that make the cake incredibly light and soft.

The Streusel Factor: It must be plentiful, buttery, and have a satisfying crunch. A good streusel is a commitment, not an afterthought.

Balanced Sweetness: This isn’t a frosted layer cake. The beauty of a great buttermilk coffee cake is in its balance—the sweet topping and swirl against the slightly tangy, moist cake.

It’s a simple pleasure, but getting it right is a form of edible art. It’s about choosing quality ingredients and understanding how they work together to create a little moment of joy.

Yellowfang for @harriertail's Ultimate Guide Zine! It sold out quick, so keep an eye out for the next drop!