There's been more than one occasion in which I've used a Lush bath bomb. But there's been even more instances in which I've imagined John Mayer sitting next to me in a bath of Lush products. Up until now, that idea existed only in my mind. Then, Mayer posted to Instagram his latest beauty tip — no, not that loneliness wards off wrinkles — and my favorite dream became a reality.
Mayer, a 40-year-old musician who spends most of his time vlogging or playing with Dead & Company, just shared a go-to beauty product we could all appreciate. The "Search for Everything" singer posted a photo to his Instagram stories last night of Lush's Intergalactic bath bomb with the caption, "Oh hell yes" — a sentiment we've all probably felt before stepping into the tub. The next post included his bath of Intergalactic's exploding colors and peppermint oil aroma, and a confirmation that, finally, Mayer now gets the bath bomb hype. And although he's certainly not the first to come to appreciate the brand (Harry Styles is allegedly also a fan), his nighttime regimen is easy enough to adopt ourselves.
Photo: Via @johnmayer.Photo: Via @johnmayer.
Self-care is possibly the buzziest beauty trend sweeping the industry this year — and for good reason. Everyone deserves a minute to just check out, turn off, and unwind. For Mayer, that means turning on some Daniel Caesar (good choice) and soaking in the candy-colored water of a Lush bath bomb. And while he's always had a knack for identifying fragrance on unsuspecting people, it looks as if this year, he'll be focusing his energy on the beauty regimes that matter.
In small wins for the busty girl community, on Wednesday, Cosabella, the champion of cute and comfortable bralettes, just launched an official extended sizing collection. And in case you're as hung up over the Never Say Never bralette and panties as we are, they're making sure to include those, too.
Featuring over 20 products in an infinite array of color options, Cosabella's Extended Collection carries just about every underwear essential you could ask for. From the mentioned bralettes to demi cup bras, thongs, and sleepwear, the brand is covering all the bases. And in addition to expanding on its current best selling styles, Cosabella's also made the extra effort to introduces news style and colors (new products to expect are two all-lace bralettes and exclusive colorways). For bottoms and sleepwear, sizes are running from 12 to 22, while the bra offerings can be found from size 32D up to 40DD.
In case you're unfamiliar with brand, Cosabella dapples in luxury lingerie quality without the high-end price tag. In business since 1983, the company describes itself as an ethically manufactured label that believes women "shouldn’t have to sacrifice fit, style, or quality in lingerie, no matter full or straight sizing."
The world needs better, fuller sized lingerie. And thanks to Cosabella, we're one small step closer. Click through for highlights from the new collection ahead.
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Apparently, Twitter can't handle a celebrity having plump lips. But this isn't news to anyone. Kendall Jenner, Sarah Hyland, and Beyoncé have all been targeted before (for some, more than once) for having a little cushion on their upper lips, and Olivia Munn was simply the next star in line to be shamed on social media.
After Munn arrived at the Runway to Red Carpet luncheon hosted by CFDA, Variety, and WWD on Tuesday , the internet pounced on her appearance, questioning the fullness of her lips. They even brought Kylie Jenner and Munn's ex-boyfriend, Aaron Rodgers, into the conversation.
But Munn is used to this kind of critique. In 2016, rumors began to spread about her skin's flawless texture. Haters speculated that her wrinkle-free face must be the result of plastic surgery, but the actress confirmed it was simply a change in diet and the magic of Japanese potatoes. Now, a little Twitter rumor about lip fillers rolls right off her back. Instead of posting a tweet to deny the allegations, she posted a video to Instagram Stories in which she wiped away her makeup with the caption, "Airplane glam (bye bye luscious lips!)." As suspected, it was all smoke and mirrors — a.k.a. the expertise of makeup artist Mary Phillips and nude lip liner from Nudestix.
But here's the thing: Whether Munn got lip injections or not is, frankly, none of anyone's business. If you can't think of anything else to tweet about besides a woman's appearance, may we suggest cheering on your favorite Olympic athlete, pushing for gun control, sharing your pick for Best Picture... or just putting down your damn phone.
When we think of the runways at fashion week, we think big picture: the clothes, the venues, the overall vibe and aesthetic each designer puts forward. But, what about the smaller details? What about the outfit-finishers: the bags, the shoes, the jewelry, and the accents you perhaps can't see from your computer screen, Instagram live stream, or fifth row seat? Those smaller add-ons are often what really make the looks shine — and also what tend to show up in our closet first (hey, it's way easier to afford a designer belt than a head-to-toe runway look).
It's time to take the magnifying glass to the accessories that have jumped out at us thus far. With New York and London under our belts and Milan underway, our eyes have scanned the catwalks from top to bottom to spot the bags, shoes, and more that will be finishing off our outfits come fall and winter. They may be bold, but the payoff will be totally worth it. Here's the can't-miss details you'll want to try ASAP.
Can't-Miss-Me Tights They'll see you coming from a mile (or more!) away in these bold prints and patterns.
Tom Ford
Shrimps
Jeremy Scott
Statement Gloves It was hard for us to spot a runway that didn't feature statement-making gloves, whether polka dotted, sheer, or studded. But we've got just one question: Will these be iPhone friendly?
Alexander Wang
Saks Potts
Erdem
Wide-Brim Hats We can all have our Beyoncé moment after all.
Marc Jacobs
Zimmermann
Isa Arfen
Beaded Bags Whether you spend a pretty penny or just hit up your local thrift shop, make sure to get your hands on one of these little numbers before next fall.
Emilia Wickstead
Edun
Shrimps
Wear Your Blanket To Work Day Don't feel like leaving your bed? You don't really have to. Blankets are fashion now, basically.
Roksanda
Esteban Cortazar
Calvin Klein 205W39NYC
Waistband-Brushing Necklaces Long baubles ruled the runways, so say bye-bye to those chokers.
3.1 Phillip Lim
Isa Arfen
Coach
Checked Bags To go with your checked blazer, of course.
Natasha Zinko
Marques'Almeida
Emilia Wickstead
The Power-Waist Belt Over corsets, tops, jackets, and bottoms, don't leave the house without one.
Brock Collection
Maryam Nassir Zadeh
Adam Selman
Ring-Handle Bags Crossbody straps are so last season.
Roksanda
Edun
MM6 Maison Margiela
Fuzzy Footwear We wouldn't say they're ideal for rainy days, but they do complement the silks and leathers of the season with ease.
Brock Collection
Cristian Siriano
Coach
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This story was originally published on November 28, 2015.
Regardless of the time of day or week, it's impossible to scroll through your Instagram feed without seeing handfuls of Outfit of the Day posts. Between photos of food porn and your BFF's cat, you'll find a slew of fashion bloggers and the well-heeled putting out a seemingly constant stream of style shots complete with tons of "tap for credits" goodness. Follow enough of these stylish ladies and you'll start to see a pattern: A handful of poses tend to pop up again and again — and they may just be the secret to getting those thousands of double-taps.
If you're a beginner in the world of outfit photo ops, figuring out just how to pose can feel awkward and intimidating. But it doesn't have to be. For days when you're really feeling your look (but don't know how to show it off), we've compiled 15 fool-proof, industry-approved poses that will showcase both you and your outfit. Click on and let the #OOTD veterans show you how it's done.
The Knee-Pop An instant way to make your legs look longer, this pose is not surprisingly a favorite among the fashion community on Instagram. It also comes in handy when wearing wide-legged pants — a little leg separation prevents them from looking like a skirt in photos.
The Almost-Curtsy Find yourself wearing a sweet, mod, Alexa-Chung-style look but don't know how to show it off? A raised brow and slight pinch of your skirt will do the trick.
The Armpit Air-Out Aside from cooling yourself on a hot day, the causal, one-arm-up pose is model-approved and instantly chic. Sticking one leg out and sporting a parted pout complete the overall look.
The Headless Mirror-Selfie For when you're loving your outfit but feeling like your face isn't quite ready for its close-up, opt for the headless selfie to let your neck-down statements do the talking.
The Over-The-Shoulder Sit Who, me? I'm just sitting on the curb, minding my own business... For this pose, it's all about appearing like you were just kicking back, pondering tomorrow's outfit, when someone called out your name and snapped an unexpected (but totally expected) photo of you.
The Laid-Back Profile WeWoreWhat blogger Danielle Bernstein is the master of nonchalantly looking at something in the distance, showcasing the head-to-toe, front-meets-side view of her outfits.
The First Day Of School This one's pretty simple — all you have to do is stand like you used to when your parents would take your first-day-of-school photo every year. Here, showing your face (and gap-toothed grin) is optional.
The Cross-Legged Stance Another guaranteed leg-elongator, this pose should be your new go-to for dresses and jeans. Extra points for tilting you're head back like someone just told you something really funny.
The Straight-On Street-Style Veteran With legs hip-width apart, lean more weight to one side, keep your arms hanging down, and offer a half-smile. Boom — you've officially achieved street style photographer gold.
The Clothes-In-Motion For an artsier, slightly less contrived outfit photo, have your friend or photographer snap you while you're moving for a chic and frame-worthy in-motion shot.
The #EvaChenPose Eva Chen has made a franchise out of her go-to outfit pose, which showcases only the ankles, shoes, and bag of the day (oh, and a healthy serving of fruit). Just don't forget to use the hashtag (#EvaChenPose) if you give this one a whirl.
The Twirl If you're feeling whimsical, there's nothing like a classic twirl to showcase a flowy dress or skirt. Make sure to turn slowly enough, though, so you don't totally blur out your look.
The Hand-In-Pocket Stylist and blogger Pernille Teisbaek has made this cool-girl stance her signature. While standing slightly pigeon-toed, give a slight bend in the knee and tuck one hand in your pocket while you shyly look away from the camera.
The Mommy-Blogger The latest #OOTD accessory? A stroller. That's right: Just because you've got a little one doesn't mean you can't strike a pose and show off your model mother off-duty look. If anything, your likes will only double with that cutie in tow.
The Mirror Shot You don't always have someone around to take your #OOTD for you. So, find a full-length mirror, cross one foot in front of the other, and boom — got the shot.
Locate the nearest mirror and open up your #OOTD to a whole new world of angles. Show off your French braids (or your butt!), all while preserving the valuable front view of your 'fit.
The Carefree Shoe
Casually draw attention to your killer footwear and advertise how carefree/chill your life is, all in one pose. It's about the details, darling.
Everyone loves a good Cinderella story. Perhaps that's why Belcalis Almanzar, also known as Cardi B, has amassed over 11 million followers on Instagram and Twitter since 2015 — and the numbers keep boomin'. Some OG fans remember watching the college student-turned-grocer-turned-stripper's hilarious Instagram videos back in 2015, where she outlined her sexcapades, her plastic surgery procedures, and anything else you — or she — could imagine.
Her audience grew by multitudes once she landed a spot on Love & Hip Hop: New York. Even though that whole "love" part wasn't all that prevalent (her ex-boyfriend is incarcerated and they ended up calling it quits), America still loved the Bronx native's sharp wit, endless one-liners, and rainbow of colorful hairstyles.
As her spotlight grew brighter, Cardi's beauty game has become stronger. She'll still pull a wildcard by throwing on a fiery red, waist-length wig or a bright green lip, but lately, the star has been playing with softer looks, too. Of course, she's had ample opportunity to do so: She's become a red carpet and Fashion Week regular.
But perhaps the best part of this epic come up? Cardi has solidified her position as an artist, too: "Bodak Yellow" hit number one on the Billboard charts yesterday, making her the first female rapper to do so since Lauryn Hill's "Doo Wop (That Thing)" back in 1998. That means we'll be seeing a whole lot more of the "regular degular shmegular" New Yorker... forevaaa.
To celebrate this rising star, we're walking through her beauty evolution, ahead.
Don't let the bright smile fool you. "I ALWAYS BEEN UP TO NO GOOD," Cardi captioned a throwback Insta post.
Photo: Via @iamcardib.
Class of 2010's best bob cut goes to... (If only we were giving out the graduation accolades.)
Photo: Via @iamcardib.
"Yes I did my own makeup," a pink-haired Cardi captioned a post in October 2015 — and she did a damn good job, too. We can't decide what we love most: the carefully-winged liner, expertly-placed shimmer, or that glossy red lip.
Photo: Via @iamcardib.
Shortly after VH1 announced that she'd be joining the cast of Love & Hip Hop: New York, a raven-haired Cardi (with even shinier lids and chocolate brown gloss) made this unapologetic introduction: "For the new followers my name is Cardi. Im crazy, I spell fucked up, my teeth all chopped up but I got good pussy:)."
Photo: Via @iamcardib.
Cardi, pictured in May 2015, once admitted that braids are her preferred protective style. "If braids didn't pull out so much of my hair I would go back to this," she wrote. "The Original Cardi with the braids. I can't stand rocking weaves and wigs."
Photo: Via @iamcardib.
Bangs are obviously Belcalis' thing.
Photo: Via @iamcardib.
Even though we love her in bright colors, Cardi's sleek, jet-black locks and light mauve lips were refreshing to see at the BET Hip Hop Awards in September 2016.
Photo: Paras Griffin/BET/Getty Images.
If we could like an Instagram post more than once, well, it would be this one. "When I was a little girl I used to hate my hair. Now I loooveeee it," she captioned a photo in October 2016, letting the world see her gorgeous head of natural hair. Ditto, CB.
Photo: Via @iamcardib.
If you asked us, we'd say that Cardi's short hair phase was one of her best. For example, it gave us space to really see her long lashes and pretty matte lip in November 2016.
Photo: @iamcardib.
Back to bangs? Duh. Later that December, she opted for a blunt, shoulder-length cut, blue highlights, and soft makeup.
Photo: Via @iamcardib.
The self-described "sexy alien forehead bitch" sported some poppin' highlighter in January 2017.
Photo: Via @iamcardib.
When Cardi commits, she really goes for it. In March 2017, around the time she dropped her single "Red Barz," Cardi rocked a lot of red hairstyles: bobs, ponytails, and this waist-length wig were all in the mix.
Photo: Johnny Nunez/Getty Images.
Hello, blondie! The "Bodak Yellow" rapper hit the 2017 BET Awards with a blonde, blunt bob. And she wasn't the only one...
Photo: Allen Berezovsky/WireImage.
For an August 2017 event, Cardi inadvertently channeled her fellow New York musician (and fan!) Nicki Minaj with these long locks.
Photo: Prince Williams/WireImage.
Still riding the wave off the success of "Bodak Yellow," Cardi attended the 2017 MTV Video Music Awards with a wavy bob, Champagne eyeshadow, and light brown lip gloss.
Photo: Steve Granitz/WireImage.
A storm's a comin'! We're not sure if she meant to channel an X-Men character, but Cardi pulled it off perfectly at Christian Siriano's September 2017 fashion show.
Photo: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images.
Followers compared Cardi B's Diamond Ball look to Cinderella — and rightfully so. Her elegant low bun and curly tendrils went perfectly with her ice blue Christian Siriano ballgown and Helen Yarmak diamond earrings. All she needed was the glass slipper.
She may not have made history as the first woman to take home a Grammy for Best Rap Performance, Cardi B's look — from her white ballgown to her ethereal makeup — was easily the big winner of the night.
Photo: John Shearer/Getty Images.
Cardi B is the next celebrity — right after Beyoncé — to prove soft center-parted curls are this year's raddest hairstyle on the rise. "We wanted to created create a look that was bold and fashion-forward," stylist Kendall Dorsey tells us. "The wig itself was provided by Real Exotic Hair. To prep and style, I used the Dove Style + Care collection, which accentuated the beautiful natural texture of the hair. Then, we used the Dyson to diffuse. I knew her hair would expand throughout the night to the perfect shape for a curly texture and style."
Photo: Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images.
Cardi B recently swapped out her curly bob for a belly-grazing look that is very blond.
Photo: Kevin Mazur/WireImage.
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For the average person, getting a highlighter for your birthday means receiving one as a gift — which, don't get us wrong, is great and all, provided that's what you wanted this year and not a car or something. But on Rihanna's birthday, "getting a highlighter" means something even more thrilling than the euphoria of tearing the red tissue paper out of a Sephora gift bag to see what's inside: the launch of a special limited-edition version of her own bestselling highlighter, from her own beloved beauty brand.
In honor of the superstar's 30th birthday (and her 10,958th trip around the sun, as she wrote in an Instagram caption dedicated to her mom) yesterday, Fenty Beauty "surprised" Rihanna with the one-of-a-kind gift of a custom, blinged-out edition of the Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter in Trophy Wife — and now they're making it possible for you to get your hands on one, too.
Well, sort of: The ones that launched exclusively on the Fenty Beauty website sadly won't come encrusted in crystals, which is a bummer, but they will feature special commemorative packaging honoring RiRi's "Dirty Thirty," and the luxe powder will come embossed with XXX, the Roman numerals for 30. The luminous metallic-gold shade and longwear cream-powder hybrid formula is the same, but it goes without saying that this take on Trophy Wife is just a liiittle more special.
If you're not content to simply carve three X's into your half-used one and want to spring for the brand-new edition, you can shop it at Fenty Beauty right now for $34 — but you'll want to act fast. Who's to say if the limited-edition stock will even last until Rihanna's 10,960th day on earth? (That's tomorrow, by the way.)
For hundreds of years, babies — no matter their gender — wore white dressing gowns. There was no children's aisle at the local tailor peddling blue, monster truck-clad overalls for boys or pink, frilly dresses for girls. Yet, somewhere along the line (around the 1940s) things changed and the mythical adage "blue is for boys, pink is for girls," came to be.
It's this stereotype that's propagated a host of insults on the playground, designed to reduce a little girl to a color. Suddenly pink was "girly," and "girly" was "weak." But over the past few years, women everywhere have turned the color on its head, reclaiming it as a symbol of resilience, power, and expression.
Neon-pink lipstick looks even more striking against bare, fresh skin.
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
Model Nyakim Gatwech debuted a bright pink crop at Flying Solo's New York fashion show earlier this month — and we are in love. Judging by her Instagram, it appears the look is here to stay awhile.
Photo: Jared Siskin/Patrick McMullan/Getty Images.
We love a good one-shadow look, especially when said shadow is peachy pink.
Better yet? Make it metallic.
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
Not feeling powder pink or neons? Try reaching for shades of mauve like model and activist Halima Aden.
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
Trade in your go-to cat-eye for a swipe of pink underliner.
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
We don't know what we love more, this style star's navy blue hair, fierce cat-eye, or fuchsia lips.
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
Proof that pink hair goes with absolutely anything — from plaid to graphic tees.
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
Jazz up a black-and-white ensemble with a swipe of magenta lipstick.
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
Want to cut down your morning routine? Just reach for a tube of pink lipstick and a pair of sunnies.
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
This beauty makes the case for all pink everything (gloss, hair, and purse).
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
You don't need bright pink lipstick or liner to make a statement, a swipe of rosy blush will do the trick, too.
Photographed by Joanna Totolici.
Or reach for a soft pink stain — preferably in the same color family as your hair.
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Today's modern version, for example, is more of a precision event, as if drawn on by the kind of pre-programmed robot arm that's used for laparoscopic surgeries. And that's where my struggle begins. Because I'll never be as dedicated to the craft as her highness — only allowing myself an additional 30 seconds each morning to apply eyeliner — my wings always extend a few centimeters off from the other. This was something I learned to accept over time.
Then, the Lyda Beauty Cleopatra Cat Eye Stamp landed on my desk, promising to stamp on a bold and even cat-eye in seconds — and suddenly, I felt all my Elizabeth Taylor-reincarnated dreams come true. Using the diamond-shaped end, all I had to do was press down the stamp at the corner of my eye, then fill in any gaps with the pointed felt-tip applicator on the other. Easy.
Of course, as with all new makeup techniques I try, nailing it took me somewhere around 320 attempts (and a whole lot of makeup wipes). The shape of the stamp is thick, so unless you want a particularly robust cat-eye — think Adele or Nicki Minaj — you have to be careful to only press down the pointed part, as opposed to the rounded edge, of the pen. As soon as I got the technique down, though, I was stamping with abandon. Cleopatra, I'd like to tell myself, would be proud.
And while my hand-eye coordination may not be advanced enough for me to apply makeup while pointing an iPhone camera at my face (though you can see someone try the product on for size in the Instagram video below), at least my days of uneven eyeliner are ancient history.
As the main event on the Milan Fashion Week schedule, if not the most highly anticipated show of all Fashion Month, Gucci quite literally had attendees counting down until its fall 2018 show (which is hilarious, given the known fact that fashion shows couldn't start on time if they tried, but made for great Instagram content). The invite came in the form of an orange timer, inside a Ziploc bag, with an old school, retro timer counting down to the spectacle. On the front of the timer, a sticker read: “Parental Advisory, Explicit Content.”
Staged in the brand's Milan hub, a former aircraft factory made into their new headquarters, the show space was transformed into a surgeon's operating room — replete with PVC flooring, stark white LED lamps, and hospital waiting room chairs surrounding an eerie operating table. Let's just say any and all nosocomephobes and tomophobes were not invited. "The concept reflects the work of a designer – the act of cutting, splicing and reconstructing materials and fabrics to create a new personality and identity with them," the brand shared on Instagram.
As with every Gucci event, designer Alessandro Michele left showgoers mesmerized. Seated in the front row of the hospital waiting room chairs were Nick Cave, Susie Bick, and their son Earl Cave, joined by TheEnd of the F***ing World stars Jessica Barden and Alex Lawther, Donatella Versace, Chloë Sevigny, Rowan Blanchard, Edward Enninful, and Anna Wintour. After sitting alongside Her Majesty The Queen at Richard Quinn's fall 2018 show (and no, we're not talking about Cardi B), it's safe to say the Vogue editrix is having quite an unusual week.
An essay written by Donna Haraway in 1984, entitled "A Cyborg Manifesto," served as the main source of inspiration — and was enough for a whopping 90-look lineup. If you're unsure of where to start, try here: In the essay, Haraway describes a cyborg as a distinction between "human" and "animal" and "human" and "machine"; the manifesto also criticizes traditional perceptions of feminism. In other words: You didn't expect Michele to send feminist tees down the runway, did you?
Alas, the show was political in its own way, and in true Michele form, he kept it weird: Some models emerged carrying frighteningly realistic replicas of their own heads, while others cradled reptiles, such as a snake or a chameleon, and even carried a baby dragon — all of which, inspired by the "legend of the baby dragon in the jar," the true story of an author who staged the discovery of a baby dragon in his garage in Oxfordshire, England. It's like, if Harry Potter took mushrooms, became an influencer, walked a Gucci show, and made it back to Hogwarts — which has now relocated to Times Square — just in time for his Defense of The Dark Arts class.
To no one's chagrin, Michele's maximalism shows no sign of dialing down — and, from Jupiter to Mars, Saturn and back, we are here for it. Based on the rapturous applause from celebrities and editors alike, the creative director will continue to reign supreme for yet another season.
Dang it. That Taylor Swift will stop at nothing.
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
When you just can't let your 2017 self go.
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
Bus stop lewks.
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
If these transparent garment bags become the new studded bodysuit, à la Rihanna, we give up.
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
"Hush, my child. It's just Anna Wintour. "
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
Put your hands up! This is a stick up.
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
Because business casual is just too easy.
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
Walking past your ex like...
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
Them: "How's your head?" Us: "Haven't had any complaints!"
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
Showing up to work on the first day being like, "Is this too much?"
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
Dr. Michele will see you now.
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
Coming soon to a street style blogger near you.
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
Let's just say these aren't paparazzi — or jaywalking — friendly.
"It's not even that cold."
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
The latest in French girl accessories is...
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
"Right this way, please."
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
A look fit for a queen (or Leigh Bowery).
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images.
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Welcome toMoney Diaries, where we're tackling what might be the last taboo facing modern working women: money. We're asking millennials how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we're tracking every last dollar.
Today, as part ofYour Spending In Your State:a web writer working in finance and accounting who makes $60,000 per year. This week, she spends some of her money on Cool Ranch Doritos.
Occupation: Web Writer Industry: Finance & Accounting Age: 25 Location: Bergen County, New Jersey Salary: $60,000 Paycheck (Weekly): $1,200 pre-tax
Monthly Expenses Rent: $0. (I'm lucky that my parents still let me live at home since my job is nearby.) Loan Payments: None. My parents paid for my education. Health Insurance: $181.26 E-ZPass: Usually around $40. Phone Bill: $42
Additional Expenses Roth IRA Contribution: I make one yearly lump sum contribution of $5,500 (the max amount) around tax season.
Day One
10:45 a.m. — I wake up way past my alarm (whoops) and spend time going through my phone. I have a kickboxing class scheduled for 12:30 with a friend and I'm glad I didn't sleep through it. It's Friday but my friend and I have been off from work all week because our firms (big accounting firms) are closed between Christmas and New Year's. Small blessings, but also kind of a bummer for me since I'm a contract employee, meaning this time off is unpaid. My contract started a few weeks ago and it's so far, so good. I drink a hot coffee with collagen, eat a banana, and then my friend picks me up and we go to the class, which we paid for previously on Groupon. It's our first time so we get free gloves and they really take the time to explain things to us. The class is great and I'm feeling powerful, but before we can escape they try to get us to sign up for a membership. We want more time to think about it and they tell us we can decide after our second class.
2:30 p.m. — I get home and shower and I am DAMN hungry. I make myself a massive sandwich of leftover Christmas roast beef, mayo, and Swiss cheese on a long white roll. I wash it down with leftover coconut cream cake and carrot cake. It's my friend's birthday tonight in NYC so I start to get ready and convince my brother to drive me to the George Washington Bridge so I don't have to take a local bus from my house. I drive over to the liquor store to buy my friend a bottle of wine and Tito's for tonight, as well as a handle of Tito's for New Year's. $62.06
5 p.m. — Brother drives me to the bridge and it is freezing. I'd usually hop into a stranger's car so that I can get across for free and they can get the carpool E-ZPass rate, but there aren't many cars out on a night like this. Instead, I take the little bus across the bridge, which costs $2. I then refill my MTA card and hop on the subway. The subways are all messed up with the holidays and I end up having to walk across town in the bitter cold. My fingers are numb and I'm ready for a drink. $22
11 p.m. — After a few hours of eating and pre-gaming, we head out to the bar. I buy a few rounds of vodka sodas and beers for myself and the birthday girl and we dance for hours. $47
12 a.m. — Hop into a cab to get to the horrible Port Authority and make it there just in time to catch a 12:30 bus home. $21.35
Daily Total: $152.41
Day Two
11 a.m. — Whoa. I am hungover despite feeling good when I went to bed. I was supposed to wake up at 9 to drive to Hartford and spend a few nights at my cousin's house for New Year's Eve. I crawl out of bed late and manage to hop into the shower and get my bag packed. I don't have the stomach to eat yet so I grab water, get into my pickup truck, and hit the road.
3 p.m. — After hours of slow driving (due to the snow) and terrible traffic, I arrive in West Hartford and call my cousin (who is also slightly hungover) to ask about the snack situation. She tells me it's dire so I stop at CVS to pick up staples: Cool Ranch Doritos, peanut M&Ms (half-off cause they're Christmas-themed!), Cheetos, Smartfood, and a ginger ale for my stomach/hangover situation. I get to the house and land on the couch with everyone else, where we all catch up and decide what to have for dinner while eating all our snacks. $17.49
6 p.m. — Our friends want to go out but my cousin, her boyfriend (who lives with her), and I would prefer to stay in. I am on Team Order Food And Never Leave The Couch. I desperately want Thai food so I suggest that, and then my cousin's boyfriend and I order green curry and panang curry, respectively. The girls order Chinese food and my cousin's boyfriend, who is a saint, goes out into the cold to pick up everyone's orders. When he gets back, I Venmo him and eat a third of the curry before my hangover haunts me again and I need a nap. After a nap, I wake up and we play a few rounds of Catch Phrase and Pictionary while the others have a few drinks. We go to bed early because tomorrow (New Year's Eve) is gonna be a long one. $15.64
Daily Total: $33.13
Day Three
9 a.m. — I wake up feeling a hell of a lot better and crawl into my cousin's bed while her boyfriend and the girls clean up downstairs to prepare for the New Year's Eve party we are having. If there's something that my cousin and I are good at, it's avoiding cleaning. We're not totally horrible though, so after I heat up my leftover curry and she eats a bagel, we go to the grocery store. We stop at the McDonald's drive-through because my cousin wants a coffee, and I pay ($1). We make it to ShopRite and buy the stuff we need to make food for the party later. I decide on croissants wrapped around brie and jam, and I buy seltzer as well. My cousin is making meatballs and a croissant ring stuffed with chicken, sauce, and mozzarella. Yummy situations all around. $14.16
7 p.m. — We get home, laze around for a bit, and then start getting ready for the evening. People start coming at around 7 and we eat and drink way too much: prosecco spiked with rose liqueur to start, followed by John Daly's for my cousin and me. We ring in the new year, play a few games of pong and flip cup, and then my cousin and I sneak off to bed at 2.
Daily Total: $14.16
Day Four
10 a.m. — I wake up feeling great, and pack up so I can leave and beat the traffic home. But after saying my goodbyes, I try to turn on the car and it won't start. Long story short: It's too damn cold and the diesel has gelled. My cousin's boyfriend tries to help me jump-start it in this -8-degree weather (God bless his soul) but nothing is working. We go back inside and eat the McDonald's sandwiches that the girls picked up for us. New year, same us. We try to jump the truck again but nothing happens. Naturally, I'm blocking in everyone else in the driveway, so we have to push the truck to the back as best we can so that the other cars can drive out over the lawn. AAA won't answer us and 2018 is doing me dirty.
3:30 p.m. — I come to terms with the fact that I will not get this truck moved and abandon it. I book a bus ticket for Hartford to NYC and leave the keys with my cousin and her boyfriend before they drop me off at the bus stop. Miserable, I wait on line in the cold for the bus, which is late. I also pull a muscle in my neck during the stress of the day and cannot move my head. I get on the bus and the guy sitting next to me won't get off the phone. I'm over this day so I tell him he's rude and he finally gets off. By some miracle, the bus gets into NYC on time. I take the subway to 175th Street and then the little $2 bus across the bridge. My mom picks me up on the other side and feels bad enough for me that she buys me a Five Guys burger and fries. $25
Daily Total: $25
Day Five
7:30 a.m. — I wake up for work after a terrible sleep and start crying from the pain in my neck. I definitely have a cold now. But since I've had the past 10 days off, I know I can't pass up on work today. First thing's first, I cancel the kickboxing class that I scheduled for tonight. I have a feeling this neck issue isn't going anywhere for a while. I drink a hot coffee with collagen and half and half while I get ready for work, and make two fried eggs and shovel them into my mouth as I run out the door. I drive my dad's van to work (and he takes a different truck) since mine is still abandoned in Connecticut and walk in a few minutes late. I catch up on emails and get to a few writing assignments.
12:45 p.m. — I bundle up and leave to get lunch. I usually meal prep for the week, but given that I got home at 9 p.m. on New Year's Day, there was no time for that. I go to the salad bar and grab lettuce, kale, broccoli, cucumbers, chicken, feta, and a bean and wheat berry salad. I throw balsamic garlic dressing on it and head back to the office. The rest of the afternoon goes slow since I feel so crappy. $9.28
5:45 p.m. — I get home from work and eat turkey soup while catching up on reality TV. I usually like to read after work (my first book of the year is The Light Between Oceans) but I'm tired and in too much pain to care. I watch Vanderpump Rules and revel in the gossip before taking Advil PM and going to sleep.
Daily Total: $9.28
Day Six
7:30 a.m. — I wake up and get ready for work while drinking my collagen coffee. I had the energy to make pumpkin overnight oats (canned pumpkin, oats, unsweetened vanilla almond milk, honey, chia seeds, cinnamon, and nutmeg) last night before going to bed, so I bring that along with me to work and eat at my desk. I got a Fitbit for Christmas and decide to get my steps in today by taking a few walks around the office. Later, I do some work and then catch up with my cousin. It looks like there's going to be a blizzard tomorrow and my cousin and I are panicking about the truck situation. She has to park her cars in the driveway because there will be a street parking suspension and my truck is still stuck in the way. Not a good day. It's about 25 degrees today and my cousin is going to try and start the truck when she gets home. Prayers up that it moves because if not, I will have to pay to get it towed.
1 p.m. — I dug through the fridge this morning and managed to find food to bring for lunch. I have chicken and potatoes in a creamy lemon sauce. Mmmm.
5 p.m. — I stop at Trader Joe's to stock up on the essentials I will need. I like to get my cooking oils and shelf items here because they're usually cheaper, while I get my meats and produce at my local grocery store. I pick up ghee, coconut aminos, Turkish honey, yuzu hot sauce (I'm VERY interested in this), Turkish dried figs, New Zealand sweet apple rings (dried apples), kalamata olives in EVOO, canned wild Alaskan pink salmon, nutritional yeast (I literally don't know why I bought this, but I always end up with a few rogue items when I go to TJ's), unsweetened organic pea protein powder, prosciutto slices, riced cauliflower, and a frozen seafood blend. $67.91
6 p.m. — After a few days of thinking about it, I decide to buy a membership to the kickboxing place. I know it's a huge expense, but I also know I will really enjoy it and that it'll supplement my home workouts. The manager said the gym would honor the 2017 pricing if I signed up after my second class but I haven't been back since my neck was killing me. I go today to see if they will still honor the pricing (my friend already signed up) and they do! Somehow, I get a great deal for a 60-class package: All told, it works out to just under $9 per class. I hand over my credit card and rip off the Band-Aid, praying that my neck will feel better soon. $494
7 p.m. — I get home and there's pulled pork and a red cabbage, red, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro slaw waiting for me. Damn am I happy. I eat dinner, watch Jeopardy, get into bed, play and lose HQ Trivia, and go to sleep.
Daily Total: $561.91
Day Seven
8:54 a.m. — SNOW DAY! The offices are closed because of the "bomb cyclone" and I relish in the extra sleep. I log onto my computer in my pajamas, sip hot coffee with collagen and half and half, and send emails and work on a few campaigns. I'm not the most productive when I work from home, so I try my best. I eat oatmeal cooked in unsweetened vanilla almond milk with sautéed apples, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a big scoop of almond butter on top.
2 p.m. — The weather is so bad outside so there is no leaving the house. I scramble up eggs with Italian sausage and onion and then clean my room. After another half hour of work, I take a shower and ice my neck.
6 p.m. — I help my brother shovel and clear the snow off the cars outside, even though I am still in pain (maybe not the smartest move) and then have leftover pulled pork with cabbage slaw. I finish the evening off with the last slice of coconut cream cake, watch Jeopardy, and then go to bed.
Daily Total: $0
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Spend a good portion of your free time cuddled up in front of Netflix? Hey, us too! You'd think all those minutes in front of the screen would translate into becoming a Netflix expert. But it turns out, there are some amazing secrets you might not know — even if you're 'flix-obsessed.
Since you’ve already devoted plenty of hours to culling your watch list and staying up until midnight taking in a new season of Orange Is the New Black, the next step in becoming a Netflix power user is committing to memory a few keys that will make your streaming experience better than ever. These will help ensure you always get the best quality video feed, and receive suggestions for movies and shows you'd actually want to watch.
Feel like you can never find movies to fulfill your “steamy thrillers” guilty pleasure? Wondering how to break free from the instant next-episode play that keeps you fixed to the couch? Read on to learn how to make the most of your many hours spent on Netflix.
This article was originally published on February 10, 2016.
Don't see what you're looking to watch? Put in a request here. You can enter up to three titles at a time and, if Netflix does end up adding one or more, it will notify you via email.
Hide Activity From Your History Whether it’s because you promised your S.O. that you wouldn’t watch Jessica Jones without her and later broke down in a moment of weakness, or you just don’t want a rogue film-viewing to disturb your carefully tuned recommendations algorithm, you can remove a title from your activity history.
Navigate to Netflix.com/WiViewingActivity to see a chronological list of every TV show episode or movie you’ve ever watched on your account. First, be impressed at your true dedication to the art of Netflixing. Then, click the “X” to the right of each title you'd like to wipe from history, and it’s like it never happened!
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Browse Endless Categories With Search Codes Back to that “steamy thrillers” movie category we mentioned. Yes, it is really a thing on Netflix, and you can find it — as well as dozens upon dozens of other categories that won't appear on your home screen — by using specific search codes in the URL field.
Just type in www.netflix.com/browse/genre/ and add the search code at the end of the link. The URL for steamy thrillers, for instance, would be www.netflix.com/browse/genre/972. For Disney movies, the code is 67673; for film noir, it's 7687, and for independent comedies, it's 4195. You can get the full list of categories at whatsonnetflix.com.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Use Multiple Profiles Prevent your roommate’s taste in all things Disney from throwing off your science fiction-heavy recommendations by creating up to five viewing profiles within one account. Each profile will have movie and TV suggestions based on its Recently Watched list along with any ratings given to programs.
How we really love to use multiple profiles, though, is by creating fine-tuned recommendation lists for any sort of viewing mood. Set up a Back From the Bar profile as a place to indulge in silly comedies, or School of Life as an easy way to access the documentaries and mesmerizing nature shows you love but don’t necessarily want influencing your Netflix stats.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Control Your Data Use An hour of streaming Netflix in HD can use up to 3 GB of your data plan. At that rate, expect to go through a monthly data allowance or bandwidth-capped home internet fast. Monthly budget blown!
Control your data usage by navigating to Your Account, My Profile, Playback Settings. Now choose from the Auto, Low (about 0.3 GB per hour), Medium (about 0.7 GB per hour), or High (about 3 GB per hour) data usage categories. While our screen grab is from a desktop, obviously this is particularly important if you're streaming on your phone.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Customize Subtitle Font If the usual yellow or white fonts used in foreign films cause your eyes to cross, customize subtitle appearance by changing the font type, color, size, shadow, and even background.
To tailor the font, click into Your Account, My Profile, and tap Subtitle Appearance. Now, concentrate on the plot instead of trying to figure out what the words blending into the screen say.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Know Which Browsers Stream in 1080p Sorry, Chrome fans, Netflix only streams in 720p high-definition through Google’s browser. Now, if you’re watching on your laptop while laying in bed, 720p is probably fine, but when you plug your device into a high-def TV, you’ll want that 1080p stream for sure.
Refuse Netflix’s Episode-Binge Enabling We’d like to believe that a weekend spent on the couch watching an entire season of Buffy wouldn’t happen so regularly if Netflix's sneaky autoplay feature didn’t make it so damn easy. Should you want to claim back a few hours of freedom, or at least give yourself time to use the bathroom between episodes, disable this feature (called Post-Play) by heading to Your Account, Playback Settings, and unchecking Play Next Episode Automatically. Now you are the master of your Netflix domain.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Stop The Buffering Just because your WiFi connection isn't the best doesn't mean you should have to sit through painful minutes of buffering. On Chrome, press Ctrl, Shift, and Alt/Opt+S at the same time to open the secret Stream Manager menu. This gives you buffering fixes you can choose from. You can also access this menu by pressing Shift and Opt (or Shift and Alt on a Windows PC) and left clicking.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Know What The Critics Think You can supercharge your browser-based Netflix experience with the Chrome extension NEnhancer. Once installed, this extension adds valuable information to Netflix listings. When you hover your pointer over a title, instead of just a synopsis and its star rating, you'll also get IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes ratings, and options to view the show's trailer.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Get The Latest Recommendations From Netflix Lovers Still not sure what to watch? You can head to r/netflixbestof on Reddit to see what other Netflix diehards think about new titles, and long lost gems you've never heard of. Warning: This might help your indecision... Or open up an entirely new can of worms.
Photo: Courtesy Reddit.
Search Netflix With The Upflix App If you're watching Netflix on a set top box such as an Apple TV, searching through titles can be cumbersome. Instead, use the Upflix app (free on iOS and Android). With this app, you can sort movies by their IMDb, Flixster, or Rotten Tomatoes rating; more easily browse titles by genre; and even let fate decide what you're watching with a roulette feature. If you plan to watch on your phone, you can also tap in the app, and it'll take you straight to Netflix to watch your movie of choice.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Check What's New (Or Leaving) Netflix That Month Netflix titles don't last forever, and the site has a rotating list of movies and TV shows that come and go. To keep track — and use that ever-changing list to better inform your viewing habits — you can check out everything that's new to Netflix, or leaving Netflix, right here on Refinery29. For this month's new releases, check here, and for the ones we're saying goodbye too, click here.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Fast Forward, Mouse Free You don't have to move your hands off the keyboard to fast forward or rewind if you're watching Netflix on your desktop. Just tap Shift and the Right Arrow if you want to fast forward, or Shift and the Left Arrow to rewind.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Use Other Keyboard Shortcuts You can actually control a lot of your Netflix experience without ever touching a mouse or trackpad. Tap the letter M to mute what you're watching; F to go fullscreen, Esc to exit fullscreen; and tap the space bar to pause or play what's on-screen (we use that one all the time).
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Keep Your Netflix Experience Consistent Ever notice how sometimes, your main Netflix screen is arranged slightly different than other times? Chances are, you were involved in a small test or preview of a redesign or a new feature. Sometimes these changes are great, but other times they're befuddling. If you don't like these occasional changes, head to Your Account, and under Settings, select Test Participation. You can toggle that button from On, to Off.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
Never Press The 'Continue Watching' Button Again
If you just want to watch eight hours of Netflix in peace without moving a muscle, we hear you. You can do that with the Flix Assist Chrome extension. It automatically presses the Continue Watching button when you're having a binge-a-thon, and eliminates the tiresome countdown in between episodes of a series.
Photo: Courtesy Flix Assist.
Make Your Own Mixtape
The mixtapes of your childhood are making a comeback — kinda. Netflix recently launched Flixtape, an online service that lets you create a playlist of sorts for TV. You start off by creating a name for your playlist, such as "Ladies In Charge." Then, Flixtape recommends different Netflix shows that may fit within that category. You can keep their suggested picks, or add your own, and then share the resulting playlist via Facebook or Twitter. You can even add your own "cover art" to make your mix feel complete.
Photo: Courtesy Netflix.
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Two years ago, everyone from Taylor Swift to Emma Stone to Zendaya got haircuts inspired by Debbie Harry, the singer and punk icon of the '80s. And now, it seems as though Hailey Baldwin is trying her own rendition of the blunt cut and choppy bangs while spending time in London for fashion week. But this retro throwback isn't entirely what it seems.
Before Baldwin debuted her mid-length, platinum ends and face-framing fringe at the Naked Heart Foundation's Fabulous Fund Fair, the 21-year-old was rocking a relaxed bob that just barely hit above her shoulders. Then instantly, her entire look transformed. How? According to Jennifer Yepez, Kérastase's celebrity stylist who worked with Baldwin that night, you can credit her overnight evolution to a really good wig.
And yet, the trickery doesn't take away from the fact that this edgy new look still tops our inspiration lists. So if you want to cop the cut, Yepez told Refinery29 exactly how she styled it: "After I prepped it with Kérastase Force Architecte, I blowdried the hair to make it lay flat and then I used a flat iron to create a bit of wave. Then, I used Kérastase VIP Volume in Powder all over to give it some texture and Crème Magistrale on the ends."
In the meantime, Baldwin's hair will likely go back to normal. Not that this means we won't keep holding out for a full '80s revival...
As if Amangiri, the sprawling Utah resort where rooms start at $1,900, wasn't already all over your Instagram feed, reminding you that you are poor and do not deserve floatation therapy in saltwater imported from the Dead Sea, Kylie had to go and feature it in her baby announcement video. Now that the desert is officially Kardashian-approved, you have three options: keep living your life because that family means nothing to you; avoid canyons at all costs until Kourtney & Khloé Take Peru or something; embrace all things arid.
If you picked option C, good news: Desert-inspired fragrances are everywhere — not just in the Desert View Suite, beloved by billionaires for its "uninterrupted views of undulating dunes and stark plateaus." Ahead, the scents that'll transport you to a place with vast terrains, epic sunsets, and no cable connection... but just enough WiFi for you to document it all on your Story.
The fragrance you'd expect to smell on someone young and chic, with a colorful vacation home in Palm Springs, who went to Marfa simply for Prada Marfa (ok, and that artisan mezcal bar featured in Vogue). Notes of oak moss, freesia, and mirabelle plum make Nomade a floral chypre, meaning it's warm, dry, and minerally — just like a desert after a much-needed rainfall.
Not everyone loves the desert and not everyone will love this scent — but that's what makes it interesting. It's got serious heat and heaviness to it, thanks to spices, oud, incense, and patchouli, with a touch of sweetness by way of the date accord. It's not necessarily what we'd wear to the Sahara in the summer, but it's perfect right now with a cozy sweater and a whiskey.
Maison Margiela Replica Fantasies: Across Sands, $180, available at Sephora.
It's always harder to say what something is versus what it's not. For instance: What does the Grand Canyon smell like? Rocks? The color brown? Majesty? I'm not sure, but I can tell you it doesn’t smell like Proenza Schouler's first fragrance, Arizona, which seems better suited for the U of A Pi Beta Phi than the nomad who’s living out of her Volkswagen on a tour through the Southwest. That's not a dig; it's just to say that this sweet blend of cactus flower, jasmine, orange flower, and musks is more of a universally appealing, "pretty" scent than you'd assume given the specific name and offbeat bottle.
The second driest continent in the world, after Antarctica, is Australia. Outback likes to honor this fact by serving up America's driest steak; we like to wear this perfume made with Boronia and sandalwood from the region. It's what "dusty pink" would smell like, if "dusty pink" were a thing.
Ever gotten high, turned on the Discovery Channel, and been moved to tears by the dramatic fast-motion life cycle of those miracle plants and animals that thrive in the harshest environments? Yeah, no, we haven't either. Definitely not. But the ghost flower (Mohavea confertifolia, if we're being fancy) is one of those plants, and it's the inspiration behind this cult-favorite fragrance. Woody but light, musky but clean, soft but long-lasting — it sounds impossible, but it's just incredibly rare.
In West Texas, you'll find a very cool hotel/campground called El Cosmico. You can sleep under the stars in a teepee, a yurt, a trailer, or your own brought-from-home tent, and when you wake up, you can wander into the gift shop and buy yourself this fragrance to commemorate the trip. Or you can just order it online and trust that it smells exactly like shrubs, wood, and sand in a bottle.
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These days, we tend to think that denim is supposed to be "flattering." Sure, we've come a long way from owning only skinny jeans like we did just a few years ago — we love a good culotte or wide-leg at this point — but there's one denim silhouette we thought wouldn't be returning from our past any time soon (or ever).
Believe it or not, the baggy jean is about to make a comeback. Get ready to channel your inner '90s and early-aughts icons like Natalie Portman, Paris Hilton, and Drew Barrymore, because Levi's has surprised us all by launching the much-loved anti-fits of the period with a selection of loose-fitting pieces in soft, washed-down denim, including a jean, a trucker jacket, a pair of shorts, and some overalls that have all mastered that perfect throwback oversized fit. Ranging from $69.50 to $98, the items are a cheap thrill that'll shoot you right back to 2002. Now all you need to do is dig out those baby tees and scrunchies.
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Finding low-maintenance, budget-friendly beauty inspiration from Hollywood celebrities can be tricky. We know damn well that even if they go to the drugstore to buy makeup wipes, that balmy, red lipstick on their off-duty days isn't often under $10, and the three eyeshadows that were mixed to deliver that smoldering smoky eye at the Golden Globes don't come wrapped in plastic seals. Stars will never be exactly like us — except, maybe, for Drew Barrymore.
Not only does she put her makeup on while riding the subway, but she's also lazy crafty like the rest of us and sometimes sleeps in her makeup for the perfect "smudgy" effect. Even better, she has her own beauty collection, Flower Beauty, that lets everyone achieve the effortless beauty look she nails every single day. So, in honor of her birthday this month, we're sharing our editors' favorite Flower Beauty products, ahead.
"A good, solid blush that does the job on the cheap. It doesn't ever look patchy on, doesn't contain any annoying shimmer, and comes in four flattering shades." — Mi-Anne Chan, beauty writer
"I am firmly a cream highlighter girl, but this velvety powder hybrid has me changing my tune. The finish and shimmer is so natural, and the muted metallic colors are so flattering." — Cat Quinn, beauty director
"People always say of their favorite lipstick that they can swipe it on in the backseat of a cab without a mirror and not have to worry. But unless the lipstick is this size, I call bullshit (or maybe I'm just especially bad at staying in the lines). This little pencil-eraser sized circle of color fits my lip shape perfectly, so I really can apply it mindlessly like a balm, and Rose Petal adds the touch of natural-looking pink I want every morning." — Alix Tunell, senior beauty editor
"Whenever my friends raid my vanity, they think that this powder is something expensive that I got from the Bergdorf's beauty counter or something. Despite its low price, the translucent powder has the same blurring effects as its $$$ counterparts — and it doesn't leave an ashy cast like some white powders tend to. I also use it to give my sheer lipsticks a matte finish by just tapping some on top with a lip brush." — Khalea Underwood, beauty writer
"Despite how much I want them, I'm way too scared to try lash extensions. Luckily, this mascara satiates my long-lash craving in two swipes. There aren't a ton of bristles on the wand, so the formula evenly combs through every lash without making my eyes look artificially feathered." — Sam Sasso, beauty editorial assistant
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When confronted with foundation that reads "sheer" or "dewy," those with acne-prone skin have the same kind of involuntary, leg-jerk reaction you get when the doctor taps your kneecap (only maybe a little more subtle). After backing away, the next course of action is to layer on a heavy duty formula to cover all the red bumps up (then layer some more).
But, as you probably know but don't want to think about, that only clogs pores, which makes matter worse. So what's one to do? If you want to kill two birds with one stone, go for a makeup base with salicylic acid or an exfoliating agent that will treat your blemishes as well as disguise them. Or, at the very least, choose a formula that isn't too matte, too drying, or too greasy.
A tall order, maybe, but we've got you covered. Click ahead for the best foundations for acne-prone skin.
The big sister to the brand's award-worthy concealer, this powder is loaded with all the ingredients you'd find in regular acne-fighting spot treatments — like witch hazel, sulfur, and gentle exfoliating acids — and leaves behind a buildable veil of coverage that feels like absolutely nothing on skin.
It Cosmetics Bye Bye Breakout Powder, $28, available at Ulta Beauty.
If you don't believe in the acne-clearing magic of this full-coverage (and salicylic acid-packed) foundation, perhaps the 1,381 reviews on Sephora will convince you.
Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup, $29, available at Sephora.
Makeup artist Jamie Greenberg recently tested dozens of drugstore foundations, and fell hard for this lightweight formula above the rest. Not only does it treat blemishes as it covers, it sets to a matte finish that's perfect for oily types — all for less than you'd pay for dinner.
Almay Clear Complexion Blemish Healing Liquid Makeup, $14.99, available at Ulta Beauty.
It may be the priciest foundation on the market, but when a 27 ml jar of creamy, full-coverage formula hides every last pimple and delivers the kind of glow only J.Lo has, does it really matter if it costs you as much as an Apple Watch?
Cle de Peau The Foundation, $250, available at Neiman Marcus.
This option from Oxygenetix pairs soothing aloe vera gel with powerful salicylic acid and settles to a matte, but never dry, finish.
Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation Acne Control, $76, available at Dermstore.
When all liquid foundations are too oily for your skin, reach for this long-wearing pressed powder. Kaolin Clay works fast to absorb oil, while perfectly concealing any blemishes along the way.
CoverFX Pressed Mineral Foundation, $38, available at Sephora.
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"To be a part of the Calvin Klein family is surreal and I feel like I’m carrying on a legacy," she tells Refinery29. "This will definitely be one of the most memorable things that I have ever done. When I’m 90, I’m going to be like, I can’t believe that was me at 13! Calvin Klein is feminine, it’s edgy; it’s something that I wear every single day."
Shot by Willy Vanderperre, the campaign sees the three in the brand's instantly recognizable western-inspired button-ups, striped trousers, and sports bras while posing in the same rustic location as the previous shoots — a nod to Calvin Klein's continued exploration of classic Americana.
"We shot this campaign in a barn and I think the setting completely embodies America and so does the fashion," Brown says. "I’m English, and I’ve always looked up to the American style. Calvin Klein is Americana to me. Raf has reincarnated Calvin Klein in a way that has made it modern and also takes it back to its roots."
Of this connection, Tenney adds: "In the past two years especially, I think Calvin Klein has taken American symbols and myths that everyone knows and has made them fresh again, by giving them new and interesting meanings."
Jackson couldn't agree more: "Calvin Klein is inclusive and whatever divisions we create as humans, I feel like they overlook that and speak to everyone. That’s American to me, and it’s beautiful."
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Comfort food can ease your pain a little when you're feeling sad. In some cases, however, what you really need to lift your spirits is some comfort entertainment. I'm talking about the movies that make you grin when not even that photo of a puppy and kitten hugging could get you to crack a smile. Fortunately, streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu have plenty of flicks guaranteed to brighten your mood. These are movies that bring on giggle-inducing waves of glee and nostalgia.
But what about when you don't want to get out of your rut, and you just want to wallow for a bit? There are plenty of intentional tearjerkers on streaming platforms as well. From weepy rom-coms to truly tragic dramas, these flicks are guaranteed to make you run through multiple boxes of tissues.
Click through if you need an entertaining antidote for a seriously bad week.
45 Years(2015)
After being married to Geoff (Tom Courtenay) for 45 years, Kate (Charlotte Rampling) discovers something about her husband that paints their time together in a new light. Geoff had been engaged before meeting Kate to a woman he still hasn't really gotten over.
Watch on: Netflix
Lion(2016)
When Saroo is five years old, he becomes separated from his older brother on a trip outside of their village to find work. After wandering lost in New Delhi, he is picked up by an orphanage, and ultimately adopted by an Australian couple. As an adult, Saroo, played by Dev Patel, uses Google Earth to track down his old home and find his biological family.
Watch on: Netflix
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas(2008)
In his wrenching film, available now on Netflix, a young boy (Asa Butterfield) befriends another kid his age who lives in a mysterious camp on the other side of a fence in his backyard. What happens next will astonish and deeply sadden you.
Watch On: Netflix
August: Osage County(2013)
All unhappy families are different — but the one featured in this movie is particularly unhappy. After the death of their family, three sisters reconvene at their mother Violet's (Meryl Streep) house. Violet has never held her sharp tongue back. Even though everyone's raw and hurting, she'll continue on her cruel rampages.
Watch On: Netflix
Titanic(1997)
You already know why you'll cry during this four-hour love story set on the doomed cruise liner.
Watch On: Netflix
Mustang(2016)
After being caught playing after-school games with boys, six Turkish sisters are pulled out of school by their conservative family and taught to be "good girls." Then, the arranged marriages begin.
Watch On: Netflix
Beginners(2010)
After discovering his father Hal (Christopher Plummer) has a young lover, Oliver (Ewan McGregor) realizes he doesn't know all too much about his dad. And he doesn't have much time to learn, either: Hal's just been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Watch On; Netflix
Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close(2016)
A boy's convinced his father left him a secret message before he was killed in the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, and sets off on a hunt through New York to find them. Of course you're going to cry.
Watch On; Netflix
The Little Prince(2015)
Sob over whimsy, love, your lost youth.
Watch On: Netflix
Netflix/Paramount/REX/Shutterstock
Snow Day (2000)
A film that promises both nostalgia and the unbridled joy kids feel when they realize they don't have to go to school.
Bridget Jones's Diary(2001) Things often look pretty bleak for Bridget, too, but she powers through and gets her happy ending (multiple happy endings if you want to get technical about it).
There's Lifetime-movie sad, then there's Oscar-worthy sad. This lovely film follows a devasted Colin Firth as he spends what he believes will be his last day on earth.
Photo: Weinstein Company/Fade To Black/REX/Shutterstock.
Short Term 12 (2013)
Before Brie Larson was an Oscar winner, she starred in this "sure to make you cry" story of a young woman who hides from her own past as she tries to help the kids and teens under her care deal with theirs.
Let Judi Dench's portrayal of a woman who searches for the child she unwillingly gave up for adoption decades ago take you through a full range of emotions, or at least from a sad cry to a happy cry.
Watch pretty people in pretty places as you absorb the message of this light, yet classic film — everything works out in the end (especially when you're talking about love).
Photo: 20th Century Fox/Chenault/REX/Shutterstock.
Camp (2003)
This sweet musical about high schoolers discovering who they are while enjoying the theater they love is super feel-good and has a truly irresistible musical number with a very young Anna Kendrick.
Photo: Dennis Yeandle/Killer Films/REX/Shutterstock.
Notting Hill (1999)
Notting Hill isn't just a rom-com, it's a British rom-com, adding the appearance of sophistication as you watch while eating ice cream right out of the tub.
An adorable film guaranteed to give you a more positive outlook, whether you want to take an Amélie approach to life yourself, or hope you might run into a similar good Samaritan.
Photo: School Pictures/Parting Shot Media/Logolite Entertianment/REX/Shutterstock.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2012)
While most streaming food documentaries will just trap you in a pit of anxiety and despair, this profile of the world's best sushi chef is a really fun watch.
A little corny, sure. But watching Zac Efron sing while playing basketball is just too special of an experience to dismiss because the movie isn't "cool" in the traditional sense.
Let this holiday movie take you through the full range of emotions, from weeping at tiny Sam at the funeral to cracking up over Colin Firth's attempt at speaking Portuguese.
On the surface, the story of an orphan living in the Great Depression seems like it would go into the sad-films category, but the classic musical ends on a pretty cheery note.
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Bachelorette weekends can be a lot of fun — when they're done right. Whether you're the bride or the maid of honor, if you're in charge of planning, it’s your responsibility to remember that your squad is chipping in time and money. So your bash should be somewhere that feels suitable for the whole team.
And while you could head to typical spots like Las Vegas or Miami, why not go for something a little more unexpected? Ahead, we've got 10 ideas for destination bachelorette parties that you probably haven't considered — but should.
Solvang, CA In the mountains east of the Santa Barbara coastline, there is a small town called Solvang, a Danish-replica village complete with windmills. The town, which feels straight out of Disneyland’s “Small World” ride, is in the heart of wine country, so you can check out the nearby wineries while enjoying the homespun kitsch.
Solvang is remote and unique enough to feel like a distant getaway, but in reality it’s only a two-hour drive from L.A., and there are plenty of modern amenities to enjoy. Book a few rooms at chic boutique hotel The Landsby, which has an excellent local wine list in its lobby bar. And if you decide to up the ante on relaxation, head to Spa Élan in nearby Los Olivos before your tour of the wineries.
Photo: Getty Images.
Niagara Falls, NY You can head to Niagara Falls for the actual falls, but that’s only a quick boat trip, and will give you plenty of time to plan a series of fun activities to keep the group busy over the weekend. The Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino offers gambling, bars, and the possibility of an endless buffet, while the Niagara Wine Trail boasts a series of small wineries.
Most of the local hotels are big chains (except for the ornate boutique property The Giacomo), so consider renting a house on Airbnb for your crew. Need something more low-key to do during your stay? Niagara Falls also has a massive outlet mall.
Photo: Getty Images.
Mexico City Sure, you could head for one of Mexico’s many beach resorts, where the bottom-shelf liquor will be flowing freely. But you’re cooler than that, which is why you’re taking your squad to Mexico City, the cultural and culinary hub of Mexico, where the margaritas are far more legit than at Señor Frogs in Cancún.
Hotels are inexpensive, so you can shack up in a lux one like the W Mexico City or seek out a funky boutique property like Hotel Habita. When you’re ready to party, the city has a ton of cool cocktail bars worth checking out, like speakeasy Jules Basement and the literary-inspired Salinger.
Photo: Getty Images.
Louisville, KY Do you like bourbon? Do your friends like bourbon? (If not, you might need some new friends.) If so, Louisville is the exact right destination for your bachelorette festivities. Before you hit the distilleries and bars, though, book a block of seats at the city’s AAA baseball stadium to catch a game and pay a visit to Churchill Downs, the home of the Kentucky Derby, where you might be able to watch a race.
Score some rooms at the chic, artsy 21c Museum Hotel Louisville, which has its own art collection, and plan a celebratory dinner at the Mayan Café or Jack Fry’s. Now for the bourbon: Start at Haymarket Whiskey Bar, move on to Bourbons Bistro, and end your night at Proof On Main (which is, luckily, adjacent to your hotel).
Photo: Getty Images.
Marfa, TX The population of Marfa is less than 2,000, so consider this a destination for bridal parties who want to try something more relaxed. The town, a three-hour drive from El Paso, is best known for its art galleries and installations, which include the must-visit Chinati Foundation and iconic Prada Marfa (a 37-mile drive outside of downtown). The town itself is low-key, centered in the middle of the desert, and the amenities are simple.
Pick a historic hotel like the Hotel Paisano or a newer contemporary property like Hotel Saint George as your home base. In the evening, check out the Capri, which has outdoor fire pits, or relaxed bar Planet Marfa. Let’s be honest, though, you’re really here for that priceless photo in front of the middle-of-the-desert Prada store.
Photo: Getty Images.
Bozeman, MT If your crew is looking for an outdoor adventure, Bozeman, MT, is a good choice — especially during the warmer months. The city, nearby to Yellowstone National Park, can be a base for all kinds of activities, like whitewater rafting, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
You can elect to camp or book a room in town (try hip hotel The Lark). Even though Bozeman may look like a quaint mountain city, its nightlife also packs a punch. Stop by the Bozeman Spirits Distillery for a tasting, and check out the craft beers at the White Dog Brewing Company. End your night at the Zebra Cocktail Lounge, a late-night bar with plenty of dancing (and a weekly ladies' night).
Photo: Getty Images.
Dublin, Ireland If anyone knows how to celebrate, it’s the Irish. Dublin requires some commitment in terms of planning, but once you get there, you and your posse can head straight to the nearest pub and start downing Guinness. There are tons of hotels to pick from (look into centrally located boutique hotel The Brooks), but an Airbnb might be your best option for housing everyone inexpensively in the middle of the city.
While you’re obviously there to party, make sure to take some time to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the National Museum of Ireland. Once you have your culture fix, head to the Guinness Storehouse for drinks at the rooftop bar, and then grab some pints at The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub, which features live music nightly.
Photo: Getty Images.
Havana, Cuba Cuba has recently become a possible destination for Americans, with several airlines now offering direct flights to Havana. If you’re interested in experiencing and exploring a new culture over your bachelorette weekend, Havana is a great foreign option that is reasonably priced. There are some decent hotel choices in the city, but you’ll be better off booking an Airbnb property that can house your entire group.
You can opt for beach hangs or strolling through the city’s various neighborhoods during the day, and dance the night away at hot spot La Casa de la Música, known for its salsa and merengue. And, of course, you’ll need to sidle up to the bar at El Floridita for the infamous daiquiris. It’s an unconventional choice for a bachelorette party, but it’s also one that your friends will be trying to outdo for years to come.
Photo: Getty Images.
Martha's Vineyard, MA Cape Cod is a classic weekend destination, and if you’re looking to create a bachelorette weekend that rivals Taylor Swift’s Fourth of July parties, then Martha's Vineyard is the perfect pick. Rent a house near the beach (don’t worry that Jaws was filmed there) and stock up on things to grill and drink.
This is not a destination where you’re going to need to do much: Just hang out in the sun, pour rosé, and play party games. If you want to go out, grab a meal at The Red Cat Kitchen or Offshore Ale House, which offers one of the best lobster rolls on the island. It’s not mandatory that your crew all don matching Vineyard Vines shirts, but it will look good on Instagram.
Photo: Getty Images.
Memphis, TN Sure, you could head to Nashville to get your fill of Southern music and soul food, but been there, done that. Instead, opt for the buzzing metropolis of Memphis, where you can imbibe, check out amazing live music, and dance the night away. There’s a massive array of cool bars in town, but try cocktail joint Alchemy or the historic Mollie Fontaine Lounge, which is set in an old mansion.
If live music is your jam, try the raucous Wild Bill’s or Hi Tone. Alternatively, if you want to get the vibe of the city but feel like getting away from it all for the weekend, book a room (err, shack) at the Shack Up Inn in the nearby town of Clarksdale. The historic property, with its rock-‘n’-roll vibe, is the perfect place to treat yourselves to some rustic R&R — and a lot of beer.
Photo: Getty Images.
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