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The June 25 NYT Strands puzzle celebrates life’s little (and big) luxuries
The spangram LUXURYGOODS ties together indulgent items we crave but don’t necessarily need
It’s a reminder that a brain break can feel just as indulgent as a boutique buy
It’s Wednesday, the 25th. You’re not broke exactly, but your finances are in a mild state of rebellion. Your bank balance is side-eyeing your weekend plans. Your idea of a splurge right now is adding a jar of guacamole without checking the price.
Here’s the thing, though: enjoyment doesn’t need a receipt. You’re allowed a little indulgence, even if it comes wrapped in letters instead of leather.
Today’s puzzle is all about those high-cost mood-lifters, the ones that say ‘just this once’ when your card begins to perspire. From classic favorites to rhyme-named joys with their sparkle slathered in luxury, each word on this board makes you feel as though you just entered a boutique (no price tags and no pressure).
Even if your budget is strictly ‘end of month,’ today’s game provides you with the glow of excess, without the bill.
You’re handed a 6-by-8 grid of letters.
Hidden inside: words that match today’s theme.
Spot one? It turns blue and stays put.
But the real crown jewel is the spangram:
It runs across the board, connecting both sides.
It ties all theme words together conceptually.
It glows yellow because luxury deserves a little shine.
The type of thing you don’t necessarily require, but most certainly deserve. At least once. Or today, in words.
JEWELRY – Small metals. Large emotion. Huge glitter.
PERFUME – An aroma for your essence. Extra: it lasts longer than your check.
CONVERTIBLE – Unpractical? Without a doubt. Legendary? Sure is.
WATCH – Not only for time-keeping, but also to flaunt taste.
HANDBAG – Sidekick to the outfit and excuse.
Look at you. Midweek, month-end, and still managing to squeeze in five minutes of playing.
You didn’t use a card, but you took your brain off.
You didn’t go into a shop, but you collected something that brought you joy.
That’s true luxury: it’s about finding time for yourself when all else is compressed.
So go ahead. Think it through slowly. Smile when that final word snaps into place. Be proud that you treated your overworked brain with NYT Strands without realizing the need.
