A lot has changed since Kate Middleton, who turns 38 today, waltzed down a charity runway ina sheer dress as a young undergrad at St. Andrews. Between moving into Kensington Palace, becoming a mom of three, and completing countless royal tours, the young royal has gracefully stepped into a very public-facing role — while staying true to who she is.
While bikini-baring dresses no longer necessarily fly under the palace's strict appearance standards (which famously even dictate what nail polish is deemed appropriate), Middleton has continued to experiment with her look — especially when it comes to her signature glossy brown hair.
From her classic full-volume blowout to barrel curls under a pillbox cap, find the most memorable hairstyles Middleton has mastered over her royal tenure, ahead.
Bouncy Blowout
A few months after their wedding was broadcasted around the world, Middleton was full-fledged royalty, debuting her signature bouncy blowout at the 2011 Wimbledon Championships.Photo: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images.
Side Fringe
The following year, Middleton proved she was a true princess of the people and tried side bangs.Photo: Arthur Edwards/WPA Pool/Getty Images.
Smoothed Straight
For Prince George's birth announcement in 2013, and mere hours after labor, Middleton debuted a windblown, pin-straight style on the steps of St. Mary's Hospital in London.Photo: Chris Jackson/Getty Images.
Barrel Curls
Middleton ushered pillbox caps into the modern age with tousled barrel curls and heavy black liner. Photo: Samir Hussein/WireImage.
Swingy Ponytail
With softly curled ends, smoothed flyaways, and pearl droplet earrings, Middleton instantly upgrades an easy ponytail for palace life.Photo: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images.
Gradual Layers
To give her long hair extra body, Middleton had her stylist cut seamless and gradual layers through her mid-shafts and ends.Photo: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images.
Half-Up
The half-up hairstyle never looked more elegant than on a 2017 Kate Middleton. Photo: Richard Pohle/WPA Pool/Getty Images.
Velvet Bow
The hair accessory of 2018, a black velvet hair bow, basically became a royal mandate once Kate wore it that year.Photo: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images.
Warm-Brown Highlights
Last year, we detected a lighter, honey-tinged highlight glazed over Middleton's dark-brown hair. Though we can't confirm for certain — the colorist's NDA is ironclad— we can say her warmer waves seem to almost radiate sunlight.Photo: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images.
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You can choose to eat pizza. You can choose to read your favorite novel. You can choose to text your crush with a Michelle Tanner meme. And all of those actions can certainly boost your mood, if only for a few minutes.But can you choose to be happier in any real, lasting way?
Brain chemistry also plays a role. Telling someone with anxiety or depression to “just cheer up” completely misses the mark — and is rude and hurtful to boot.
All that said, there is good news. Research has shown that at least a portion of your happiness is well within your control. “Happiness doesn’t just happen,” says Pileggi Pawelski, “but healthy habits certainly can determine our individual wellbeing.” You can influence your mood in a real and enduring way, just by taking a few simple actions.
We looked into the latest positive psychology studies and spoke to top happiness experts, who clued us into the most powerful steps you can take make your outlook brighter.
Build strong relationships.
“Connections with other people are the single most important component of happiness,” Pileggi Pawelski says. Just look at Harvard’s 80-year study on emotional wellbeing and adult development, which found relationships were crucial to feeling your best. “The clearest message that we get from this 75-year study is this: Good relationships keep us happier and healthier. Period,” says the director of the study, Robert Waldinger, MD, in his TED talk.
All you need is one solid relationship to experience the mental perks, Pileggi Pawelski says. Someone you can call in the middle of the night if you’re having an emergency; someone you can lean on during a super-stressful times; someone you can share positive experiences with too.
Even if you’ve got a group of besties you love, the effects are so powerful that it’s worth putting in some time to strengthen those bonds. Set aside at least two nights a month to spend face time (IRL or digital, if you’re in a long-distance friendship) with your pals.
Or join a club to meet people with common interests, suggests Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project. Get creative. “You could start a podcast or New Yorker article club,” Rubin suggests. “I once new someone who started a cereal and Serial group, where they’d eat different cereals like Coco Puffs while they listened.”
Do things that help you grow.
Rubin says most people thrive when they’re part of an “atmosphere of growth.” And the research backs her up. Research shows that people who have a sense of purpose in their lives tend to be more fulfilled and are reportedly healthier.
“Perhaps because people with purpose have an overall outlook regarding the importance of their goals in life, they take care of themselves better,” Eric Kim, PhD, of Harvard’s School of Public Health, who’s studied the effects of purpose, suggested in a previous interview.
Build on your passions, or take steps to strengthen your weak spots. Start a blog; take a photography class; download a language app; hire a financial coach. The goal? Never stop learning.
Listen to music you love every day.
It’s a simple one, but Rubin says it makes a surprisingly big difference. Studies show that it can even reduce your levels of cortisol — a stress hormone that can change your immune system responses and suppress the digestive system — and potentially can relieve pain.
Listening to one song won’t lift your mood for any sustained period of time, but listening to a few faves daily can keep you feeling as groovy as your tunes.
Do a good deed.
You don’t have to start volunteering every week. But try to keep an eye out for opportunities to take small, kind actions throughout your day. We’re talking about things like giving a pregnant woman your seat on public transit, looking your barista in the eye and sincerely wishing them a good day, or celebrating friends’ accomplishments a little extra.
A review in the International Journal of Behavioral Medicine confirms that this strategy works. The research found that being altruistic is associated with greater well-being, happiness, health, and longevity.
Change your mindset.
This tip can feel overly simplistic or like magical thinking — but it really works. Focus your attention on what’s going well in your life rather than what’s going poorly, suggests Pileggi Pawelski. (So: The nice weather vs. the fact that you just missed your train, or your upcoming happy hour with your friends vs. the crappy day at work you’re having.) It’ll elevate your mood in the moment, and help train your brain to keep noticing the nice things.
To get yourself into the habit of giving more weight to happy events, consider using a gratitude journal. Research indicates that gratitude can make you feel more “positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships,” notes Harvard Health.
Go a step beyond by savoring good moments, says Pileggi Pawelski. This method is proven to increase happiness, and it’s easy to do. Look for the “small, daily, magical moments in our lives,” she says, and take an extra second to intentionally appreciate them. That good weather? Spend a breath or two enjoying the feeling of the sun on your skin.
Try meditating.
You don’t have to do a full-on, sit-down, traditional meditation session to weave mindfulness into your life, says Pileggi Pawelski. The practice, which emphasizes focusing on the present moment, will train you to turn your attention away from negative events, she says.
A Harvard study affirms how insanely powerful mindfulness is — it literally changes the brain in ways that may be linked to improving the way we manage stress.
If the trendy meditation apps aren’t working for you, try yoga. It combines mindfulness and exercise, an another happiness booster.As Elle Woods famously said: “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.“
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Signage is displayed outside a Dunkin’ Donuts Inc. location in Los Angeles, California, U.S., on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2017. Dunkin’ Donuts announced a signing of store development agreements with franchisees QSR Group and Guzaratti LLC to develop six new restaurants throughout Georgia, including two multi-brand locations with Baskin-Robbins and one location in a gas station convenience store. Photographer: Patrick T. Fallon/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Behold, the battle of the dairy alternative milks is upon us. Just a few days after Starbucks announced that it’s upping its non-dairy drink game, Dunkin’ Donuts is dropping its own big news: The fast food restaurant chain is adding oat milk to its menu nationwide. Starting this spring, oat milk drinks will be available in stores just in time for iced coffee season!
Customers will be able to add oat milk to Dunkin’ Donuts’ full lineup of “espresso drinks, hot and iced coffee, cold brew, and frozen beverages,” according to a company press release.
But, if you live in California, you’re in luck: The company’s new oat milk latte is already available in Dunkin’ locations across the Golden State. In conjunction with their new oat milk release, Dunkin’ Donuts is also letting people customize their favorite drinks with both oat and almond milk as replacements.
It’s not too much of a surprise that the brand is jumping on the oat milk trend, though. Demand for dairy alternative milks has skyrocketed in recent years as both a healthy alternative to regular milk and part of an active effort for people working to live more sustainably.
According to the Financial Times, oat milk has been a favorite among the non-dairy crowd, outpacing almond and soy milk sales. Millennials may very well be the reason for that, with everyone from hip baristas to “socially conscious” influencers expressing their devotion to the plant-based alternative. While the Financial Times reports that almond milk still reigns supreme in the United States, that dominance could be coming to an end as people become more aware of the environmental impact of producing milk from almonds. (In short: It’s not good.)
In an article examining the budding oat trend, the University of California San Francisco Office of Sustainability reports that many people choose almond milk for having a smaller carbon footprint when compared with dairy milk. “What may be surprising, though, is that almond milk takes a toll on the environment in other ways. The main issues associated with almond milk production are water use and pesticide use, which may produce long lasting effects on the environment in drought-stricken California, where more than 80% of the world’s almonds are grown.”
These realities should always be considered when you’re deciding which dairy alternatives to buy and consume. For the most part, oat milk is regarded as one of the better plant-based milks, especially if overall environmental impact is a concern. And although Oatly once dominated the oat milk scene, other players have entered the picture.
Narrowing it down to your favorite might be tricky, so we did all the heavy lifting and ranked a selection of the top oat milks currently on the market. But if you are itching to try out Dunkin’ Donuts’ new oat milk drinks and live in California, they are giving out samples of their Oatmilk Latte on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. while supplies last.
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Nail-polish trends tend to line up with the seasons: For winter, deeper shades like glossy black and midnight blue perfectly complement the windchill and the 4 p.m. sunset. But according to the pros, this season's up-and-coming picks also draw inspiration from emerging color trends in the fashion world, not to mention the glittery red and pink undertones of Valentine's Day (which, yes, will be here before we realize it).
Ahead, you'll get your first look at the experts' nail-polish trend predictions for winter 2020. Shop your favorite shade now, before you see the shimmery rose gold of your dreams poking through the wide-knit weave of someone else's chunky sweater.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Rouge Noir
Selena Gomez sported a glossy burgundy manicure this week — in this exact shade, Chanel's classic Rouge Noir — and, just like that, all of our winter mani-pedi indecision was solved.
Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Rouge Noir, $, available at Holt Renfrew
Pale Lilac
Not quite white, a creamy lilac is the perfect nuanced light tone for cooler weather. Nail pro Rita Remark tells us her favorite pale-lavender polish is Paintbox Like Dreams.
Paintbox Nail Lacquer in Like Dreams, $, available at Paintbox
Olive Green
According to celebrity nail artist Gina Alcedo, green — specifically, the color of a martini olive — will continue to gain traction through winter. "Light pistachio was popular on the designer runways, but for winter I see one shade deeper," Alcedo says. "Olive is on trend and plays well around the holidays. My favorite is Olive for Green by OPI."
It's official: Dark brown is the new black — and even chicer, at that, according to Olive & June founder Sarah Gibson Tuttle. "A rich chocolate brown is the most fashion-forward neutral," she says. "Our take is a glazed dark-chocolate brown, and we'll definitely be seeing a lot more of it this winter and into award season."
Olive & June Olive & June CN Nail Polish, $, available at Olive & June
Rose Gold
Tuttle also confirms that shiny metallic manis are of the moment, especially the pale pink-tinged variety. "Rose gold is currently our clients' favorite shade," she says. "You can wear as a solid color or add it as a nail-art accent." This polish — Reflection Perfection from Essie's new metallic line — is that perfect sparkling-rosé shade.
Essie Intergalactic Metals Collection Reflection Perfection, $, available at CVS
Deep Purple
There's something about a deep gothy purple that is both edgy and elegant at the same time — the perfect complement to any sweater or sequin dress. To make this NVLA polish all the more appealing, Alcedo tells us it's one of Amal Clooney's go-to shades.
The real shocker of this trend report might be the dark-yellow prediction. "Mustard is going to be one of the top winter nail trends," says Alcedo. "It's not bright or pastel, but a deep and rich yellow. I love Urbanized by Cirque Colors."
Cirque Colors Urbanized, $, available at Cirque Colors
Statement Red
If you're wavering between candy-apple red and glitter — wear them both. Remark tells us the statement reds will trend this season. "Red is always a classic, but around Valentine's Day you'll see it take a sparkly form," she says. "I love Knotty or Nice by Essie for its perfect velvet red finish and iridescent glitter."
Essie Essie Winter 2019 Nail Polish in Knotty or Nice, $, available at Ulta Beauty
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Call me crazy, but I love a good run. The second I get out of the door and hit the pavement, I’m glad I did. I use the time to parse through tough situations in work and life, and also to jam out to both Lizzo and the Les Mis soundtrack.
But here’s the thing. Before I leave my apartment — before I even lace up my tennis shoes — jogging is often the last thing I want to do. Especially in the mornings when my bed feels so warm and the rest of the world seems so chilly.
On those dark, early mornings (or even at night after a long day at the office) I need extra help to get me going. Starting is hard. And that’s just for me, a person who generally likes a good sweat session. But research shows that many people don’t like aspects of exercise, in part because so many of us feel intimidated in the gym. Another reason: Some people are genetically predisposed to get less pleasure from working out, as one study found. Even pro athletes feel this way sometimes. Tennis star Serena Williams once told Star Magazine: “I hate working out more than anything, but I have to — when I’m running, I think about how much I want to win. That’s the only thing that keeps me going.”
But fear not. There are tons of tactics you can use to motivate yourself to workout if you want to get moving more. We asked coaches and health experts to give us their best tips so you can get yourself out of the door in 2020.
Find your purpose.
You need to figure out a reason to train that’s bigger than the exercise itself. An example: Exercise can improve longevity and you want to live long enough to see your child get married. Or it could be wanting to spend more time with your best friend, who’s always asking you to accompany her to boxing class. Whatever it is, it can’t just be that you want to do push-ups so you can say you did. That’s boring, says health strategist and fitness professional Jay Cardiello.
“You have to know your ‘why,’’’ he says. “How do you go from ‘I have the desire to do this’ to ‘I must do this?’ Everyone needs a ‘why factor’ and you can go from there.”
Figure out what kind of exercise you like.
Just because you hate lifting weights, doesn’t mean you won’t like another kind of workout. Maybe yoga will make you feel totally zen — while also causing you to break a sweat. Or perhaps you’re more of a barre or bootcamp kind of boo. Play around until you find something that doesn’t make you want to throw your sneakers in the dumpster.
Wear your gym clothes to bed.
This will give you one less excuse to sleep in instead of getting #Sporty, explains John Honerkamp, an NYC running coach and the founder and CEO of Run Kamp. If you find your leggings less comfy than your jammies, just laying your leggings and sport bra out the night before can make it easier on yourself.
Just do a little.
It’s easy to psych yourself out of a workout by telling yourself you have to do a full hour every time. Just a mile, or even a walk around the block counts. “Initially people think they have to ‘go big or go home,’” says Honerkamp. “And often they go home.” Instead, Honerkamp recommends starting with something that seems short or even too easy. Then, the next day, you’ll come back rearing to go harder. “It’s the carrot on a stick approach,” he says.
Build time into your calendar.
Fitness influencer Kayla Itsines previously told Refinery29 that it can help to build a block of “exercise” time into your calendar, like you would a meeting or a dentist appointment. This will help you mentally prepare, and not push it off until tomorrow.
Have a killer playlist.
Honerkamp recommends having a power playlist, or listening to podcasts. It gives you one more thing to look forward to about working out that isn’t the workout itself. Another tactic: Have one show you love that you only watch on your smart phone when you’re on the stair-master, treadmill, or elliptical.
Build good habits.
Of course, motivation isn’t everything, Cardiello adds. Many researchers believe building healthy habits is the best way to succeed, rather than leaning on willpower. Many researchers believe the best way to build a habit is to start small, as BJ Fogg, Ph.D., the founder and director of Stanford University’s Behavior Design Lab and co-founder of the Tiny Habits Academy. This comes back to Honerkamp’s “carrot on a stick” approach. Try doing five squats every time you make your morning coffee, or three push-ups before every shower. This will get you into the swing of things.
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It’s easy to get into a rotation of the same winter knits: chunky sweater, turtleneck, long sleeve black dress, repeat. But during the recent holiday season, we couldn’t help but notice a micro trend throughout our Instagram feeds, sported by celebrities, influencers, and our most fashionable friends. There’s been a major uptick in asymmetric necklines. Whether intentionally scooped right or left of center, or sporting a one-shoulder design, the modern silhouette is subtle yet transformative.
Asymmetry was a common thread across runways from New York to Paris, making an appearance on the Spring '20 catwalks of Stella McCartney, Cushnie, and more. We love Simon Porte Jacquemus’ inventive take in which he managed to create a cardigan that doubles as symmetrical, or asymmetrical, depending on how you button it.
The eye-catching trend void of ruffles, rhinestones, and flash but its anything but boring, And it adds an edge to the most basic rib-knit top. It's a comfortable alternative to the off-shoulder look, and we're so pro going lopsided, we've curated 14 of our favorite styles out there.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. The product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
BDG Urban Outfitters One-Shoulder Long Sleeve Thong Bodysuit, $, available at Nordstrom
Jacquemus La Robe Maille Azur, $, available at Jacquemus
Eloquii Asymmetrical Neckline Top, $, available at Eloquii
Lulus Soltera Black One-Shoulder Dress, $, available at Lulus
Cushnie Metallic Gold Silk Lame Asymmetric Mini Dress, $, available at Cushnie
IRO Coatli One Shoulder Puff Sleeve Silk Top, $, available at Verishop
Plus Asymmetric Snake Print Longsleeve Bodysuit, $, available at
Lovers + Friends Cullen Bodysuit, $, available at Revolve
Pretty Darling Asymmetric Sleeve Jacquard Midi Dress, $, available at ASOS
Alix Willett Metallic Thong Bodysuit, $, available at Shopbop
Reformation Misfit Top, $, available at Reformation
Bec & Bridge Anaconda Midi Dress, $, available at Shopbop
Nasty Gal Ruched Asymetric Slinky Body, $, available at Nasty Gal
RtA Beckett Off Shoulder Sweater, $, available at 11 Honore
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Update: On Friday, Marianne Williamson announced that she would no longer make a bid for president in the 2020 election. In a message to supporters, Williamson said, “With caucuses and primaries now about to begin, however, we will not be able to garner enough votes in the election to elevate our conversation any more than it is now.”
This story was originally published on January 3, 2020.
Lots of people like to start off their new year with a cleanse of sorts, you know, to start fresh — some go with cleaning their home or trying to start fresh at the gym. For Democratic presidential candidate Marianne Williamson, a new year has started with a more specific kind of cleanse — firing her entire campaign staff.
On January 2, the self-help guru-turned-presidential-hopeful announced in a statement that she has laid off her whole campaign staff and will be relying on volunteers to snag her bid at political office. Yes, you read that right. But for those wondering, this doesn’t mean that Marianne Williamson is throwing away her shot. She will be staying in the presidential race.
“We’ve had a wonderful team, and I am deeply grateful for their energy and talents. But as of today, we cannot afford a traditional campaign staff,” Williamson explained in her statement sent out Thursday night. She added that she’s not giving up, and that “a campaign not having a huge war chest should not be what determines its fate.”
At the height of her run for office, Williamson employed 45 campaign staff members in four different states. But, reports on Tuesday circulated, suspecting that Williamson was going to clean house and is now officially down to no paid staffers. According to sources who spoke to NBC, she made the decision based on financial issues. Williamson’s former representative from New Hampshire, Paul Hodes, as well as former campaign manager Patricia Ewing, confirmed that they are no longer working with the campaign. But of course, Williamson has backpedaled the decision already via Twitter.
Reports of the end of my campaign have been drastically exaggerated today. Here is my statement…https://t.co/fwr94k4ZUW
The unconventional move is not such a surprise from this, well, unconventional candidate. Straying from mostly traditional campaign promises, Williamson previously stated that she’s running to bring a “moral and spiritual awakening” to the country. So far, her platform has included an Anti-Poverty Plan, which includes forgiving all student debt, and a more spiritual plan focusing on “Whole Health,” among others. Williamson has said little about concrete policy during debates, but she did make a splash in her proposal for a country-wide atonement for slavery.
Although it’s unclear how exactly she’s planning to helm the intense amount of work that needs to be done in order to run a presidential campaign, she’s determined to try. According to polls and, of course, the memes on Twitter, Williamson is one of the least liked and most mocked Democratic candidates this season. Besides being criticized for having dangerous ideas about disability and mental health, she’s also been pegged as a “woo woo” candidate for her more unusual, spiritual rhetoric.
Obviously trying to infuse her email to supporters with some positivity, Williamson said, “The point of my candidacy has been to tell the heart’s truth and that does not cost money. Forging a new path for campaigns is going to be necessary, if we’re ever to forge a new path for our country.” Trying to run an operation that big takes moolah, and anything she tries could only be called unpaid labor.
We know that Williamson, former roommate of actress Laura Dern, seems to live on a different plane of existence from us all, and now without a staff or money to back her campaign, one can only hope that the spirit of her presidential bid may not come back to haunt us.
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We’ve still got a month until Valentine’s Day, but astrologically, the time for romance is already here. On January 13 Venus, the planet of love, will enter Pisces, where it will stay until February 7. This is a particularly special time: In astrological terms, we say Venus is “exalted” in Pisces, meaning that the planet is particularly well-placed in this sign. It makes sense, because Pisces’ gentle, artistic, emotional vibe is one that’s perfect for romance.
Venus’ transit through Pisces is “one of the most tender times of the year,” explains astrologer Lisa Stardust. “When Venus enters sensitive and dreamy Pisces, we’ll all be washed away by the rapturous undercurrents of love. Venus’s placement in the sign of Pisces is its favorite spot! Venus is exalted in Pisces because love has no depths here.”
During this time, embrace romance in all forms. Spend time with your partner if you have one, schedule some dates if you’re single, be generous to your friends, and make space in your life for art. “Giving all to others comes easily, as the heart has infinite depths,” Stardust says. “Music, art, creation, and emotions become very fluid in this placement, as well as the imagination.”
Stephanie Powell, head of content at Astrology.com and Horoscope.com, adds, “When Venus enters Pisces, the collective energy will shift in matters of love — we’re eager to focus on deeper, meaningful bonds. In matters of love and beauty, Venus will operate at its highest octave.”
Enjoy everything this time brings, but keep in mind that it’s akin to wearing rose-colored glasses: We’re seeing things as a little bit better as they are. “The energy is receptive, healing and compassionate, which can also have us ignoring red flags,” Powell says. “It will be a period of time that can blur our boundaries, so it will be important to be firm in maintaining and clarifying your wants and needs.”
As long as you don’t forget caution, though, go ahead and get romantic. “Venus in Pisces ultimately offers us a chance to re-connect and embrace intimacy — a few weeks where there’s no such thing as too much cuddling,” Powell says.
According to Stardust, we’ll see an even greater boost in our love lives on January 26 and 27. On January 26, Venus squares Mars, meaning that they make a particular angle that puts the planets’ energies into conflict. But with Venus ruling love and Mars ruling desire, “this will be the steamiest day of Venus in Pisces transit,” Stardust says. “Expect to feel sensual and magnetic on the 26th.”
Then, the 27th “is the best love day of the whole year,” she says. “Neptune adds some fluff and flirtations to Venus’s beautiful imagination. We will be swept away by the dream and magic brought our way.”
Meghan McCain has quite the knack for controversy — especially when it comes to her roundtable talk. The 35-year-old co-host of The View is well-known for her contrarian opinions and non-answer answers, often to the point of visibly irritating her fellow co-hosts.
Just last month, after a heated on-air debate about Trump’s impeachment, the usually-collected Whoopi Goldberg bluntly told McCain, “Girl, please stop talking. Please stop talking right now.” On the show, McCain seemed taken back and simply responded, “No problem, I won’t talk for the rest of the show.” The very next day, she took to Twitter to draw comparisons between herself and Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones. Which, was a stretch, to say the least.
These days, it looks like McCain’s future on the show that made her a household name might be in question. For starters, there’s a literal petition to replace her, specifically with another conservative commentator like Ana Navarro or Jedediah Bila (who actually left The View back in 2017). As of press time, the petition had more than 8,300 signatures.
Complicating matters even more are several unsubstantiated claims that McCain’s co-hosts are not currently on speaking terms with her. On Thursday, she was mysteriously absent from the live taping of the show. This drew further criticism considering the recent tensions with both co-hosts and guests.
Namely, her being MIA comes just two days after her on-air confrontation with Senator Elizabeth Warren. The Democratic presidential nominee appeared on The View to talk about her platform and the ongoing military crisis with Iran. McCain accused Warren of flip-flopping her description of Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani and said, “I don’t understand why it was so hard to call him a terrorist, and I would just like you to explain the change.”
For the record, Warren called Soleimani a “murderer responsible for the deaths of thousands, including hundreds of Americans,” but that response clearly didn’t satisfy McCain. McCain badgered Warren to refer to Soleimani as a “terrorist,” which led the senator to clarify her perspective on the whole situation.
“Of course he is [a terrorist],” Warren said. “He’s part of a group that our federal government has designated as a terrorist. The question, though, is, ‘What’s the right response?’ And the response that Donald Trump has picked is the most incendiary and has moved us right to the edge of war — and that is not in our long-term interests.”
Warren outright ignoring Meghan McCain is the energy I need for 2020. https://t.co/ioFi1iCr3P
That response effectively shut down additional retorts from McCain, though it didn’t save her from getting criticized on social media. Many felt that Warren not only made her points very clear during her appearance on the show, but that she also expertly ignored McCain’s other attempts to interrupt her while she was speaking.
Now, McCain’s career as a commentator and co-host on The View seem to hang in the balance as so many speculate her absence and possible dismissal.
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Earlier this week, nearly 200,000 tech enthusiasts and exhibitors from the world over descended on the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, NV. There have been a great many robots, even including a toilet paper robot. There have been mattresses. In fact, there have been smart versions of nearly every household appliance the mind could dream up. Also, a $9,000 oxygen chamber.
As a CES newbie, I have been nothing short of overwhelmed by the more than 4,500 exhibiting companies on the show floor, wandering around with my CES media lanyard and probably looking more like a college freshman during orientation. Needless to say, I have seen a lot of crazy stuff. But my favorites can be distilled into a few key categories: namely, robots, vibrators, and of course, all the beauty.
Ahead, here's what is jumping out as the key tech trends of 2020.
There's A Robot For That
The robots showed up big time this year, from Charmin's RollBot, which promises to bring you toilet paper when you're otherwise occupied, to a series of freakishly cute robots intended not for productivity but instead for emotional support.
Of this latter group, my favorites were Qoobo, pictured here, a self-described "tail cushion that heals your heart." While it does not respond to voice commands the way Sony's Aibo robot dog does (or is at least supposed to), Qoobo responds to pats and caresses and wags its tail accordingly.
Even cuter than Qoobo and Aibo is Lovot, another robot intended to provide emotional therapy. It kind of looks like a hobbit with a camera on its head and rolls around on wheels whilst batting its big, round eyes. You can also dress it in a flannel t-shirt and glasses. It will follow you, coo at you, and cuddle you. And it can all be yours for $3,000 — that is, when it comes to the U.S...whenever that will be. (It's currently only on-sale in Japan.) It is perfection, and I think my cortisol levels dropped immediately when I spotted it amidst the madness of the CES showroom floor.
You heard it here first — skin analysis apps are going to be everywhere this year. (A personal horror to me — I can't stand taking a selfie and having all of my face's flaws pointed out to me by my phone — but it's apparently a thing that the people seem to want.)
With Neutrogena's Skin360 app, you take a photo of your face, and the app does the work for you — recommending a unique combination of products meant to address your specific skin issues and then tracking your progress over time. Of course, it should be noted that the app only recommends Neutrogena products, of which there are certainly many, but if you really have problem skin, you're still better off seeking help from a professional rather than an AI assistant.
L'Oréal's new Perso at-home skin treatment device takes this technology a step further by dispensing personalized foundation, lipstick, and skincare combinations from its accompanying device based on your skin concerns. Duolab and Reduit also caught my attention for their similar personalized dispensing systems for skincare and haircare, respectively. All three of these dispensing systems come in futuristic, shiny robot-looking devices. Whether or not all the smoke and mirrors are necessary, I'm not sure, but at a moment where items like beauty mini fridges are sweeping the culture, these seemingly very extra devices feel right in line.
And then there was a literal inkjet printer for your face made by Opté Skincare that scans your face for hyper-pigmentation and then uses printing technology to cover it all up with serum in one single movement.
More Than Just A Bullet
Sex tech has had a fraught history at CES (just last year, Lora DiCarlo's innovation award was rescinded and the company was banned) but it's finally getting its due time in the spotlight. I've seen a lot of fancy vibrators, proving that long gone are the bullets of yesteryear. I have come across no fewer than 10 vibrators on the showroom floor this year, and on the whole, they've been both smart and sleek AF.
There's also OhMiBod, a sex tech veteran, that let's you connect your music to your vibrator and, say, make it pulse along to "Love in This Club" if you so desire and lets you share the experience remotely.
And then there's Lora DiCarlo — perhaps the sleekest-looking of the bunch, which debuted three new products, including a personal massager called Osé (pictured in the center) that does...a lot of stuff at once. And of the more simple variety is Crave, known for their vibrator necklaces and now rings, which pass as cool jewelry pieces but double as powerful sex toys.
Smart House
From smart toilets to smart cooking assistants, CES was full of literally every household appliance and accessory made smart.
I played basketball with a voice-activated Simplehuman trash can. I stood in front of a smart mirror with the ability to detect outfit repetition (Nessa by Shiftall). I watched in awe as different food dishes were placed beneath an augmented reality pendant lamp (BeamAR by Shiftall) that then projected the name of the food onto the table beside it.
I also watched as a Litter-Robot spun around (with a toy cat inside of it), demonstrating its ability to self-clean, and marveled at many smart toilets. For example, Kohler's Numi 2.0 Intelligent Toilet, which has dynamic lighting, Alexa functionality, Bluetooth, and a heated seat, because doesn't want to ask Alexa to play "thank u next" whilst sitting on the toilet.
Meditation Station
This year, we saw huge strides in health technology — from the practical to the plain ol' extra. Elvie and Willow brought innovations in new wearable breast pumps, and kegel machines were on full display from Elvie and OhMiBod.
I also watched a $9,000 oxygen chamber spin on a swivel and pump oxygen into its leather interior as well as, like, four smart toothbrushes and toilets.
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Saturn has a very hot interior, reaching 11,700 °C at the core, and it radiates 2.5 times more energy into space than it receives from the Sun.
Has this past week seemed particularly chaotic to anyone else? From international news (rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran) to celebrity gossip (Megxit), the headlines are so OTT that all I can think of is that infamous @Horse_ebooks tweet: “Everything happens so much.”
There’s a reason for this, says astrologer Lisa Stardust. Mercury, Saturn, and Pluto are all in Capricorn, and on Sunday, January 12th, they’ll align in what’s called a conjunction — meaning they’re all lined up in the same sign. During this day, we can expect big things to happen all over the world.
“On January 12th, we have a series of events that will shake up our lives due to the stellium (a cluster of planets in the same sign) of planets linking up in Capricorn,” Stardust explains. “First, we start off the day with Mercury aligning with Saturn and then Pluto.”
The fact that it’s these three particular planets lined up matters. “Whenever Mercury and Saturn come together, there’s a big story with authority and power. This sentiment is exemplified by Pluto’s connection to Mercury,” Stardust says. “These planets, especially in the cardinal sign of Capricorn, will force us to take action against those who aim to control us or hold us back. Finally, later in the day, Saturn and Pluto come together.”
This Saturn-Pluto conjunction is particularly important. “This is the fight. The rage against the machine. This is where we will unchain ourselves from the constraints or status quo of society and speak our minds,” Stardust says. “With the political climate being super heated, we can expect protests against the government and the patriarchy. This energy will set off the birth chart of the U.S.A., and force voices throughout the country to be heard.”
Pay attention to the headlines this weekend. “All of these planets want to expose the abuses of power in order to transform the world,” Stardust says.
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Of all the prep work you can do before going to the gym — having a workout plan, finding the right sports bra, knowing the basics of form, topping off your water bottle — nailing the pre-exercise food plan is probably the most important. Without the right fuel, there's a good chance you'll peter out mid-way through your workout.
The perfect pre-workout snack will contain the right mix of carbs, protein, and fat, says Mascha Davis, RDN, founder of Nomadista Nutrition and author of Eat Your Vitamins (on sale January 2020).
"You’ll need to get some carbs for energy, because your muscles need glucose to work," Davis explains. (Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, a.k.a. sugar, an easy-to-use energy source.)
Protein helps repair the muscles and increases muscle growth, she says. The final piece, fat, will help you to sustain energy levels during longer workouts.
How much of each nutrient people need varies, so Davis recommends talking to a registered dietician if you want a personal plan. Or try experimenting with some different options to see what feels best.
These pre-workout foods, selected by Davis, are a good step towards the right mix of carbs, protein, and fat to ensure you feel strong throughout your entire workout. Aim to eat the snacks roughly half an hour before you start moving.
Green Smoothie
Put that blender to good use. Davis says that phytonutrients make green smoothies the ultimate pre-workout snack.
Along with the known health benefits of leafy greens, multiple studies have found that consuming nitrate before a workout, which is found abundantly in things like spinach and kale, can have a positive affect on the mitochondria (the cells' energy engines).
Aim for a smoothie that combines carbs (bananas or other fruit), protein (protein powder, oats), and fat (yogurt, olive oil), plus leafy greens.Photographed by Mike Garten.
Yogurt + Fruit
Take plain yogurt and top it with fruit and nuts and seeds. You get protein (yogurt, nuts), carbs (fruit, nuts), and fat (yogurt, nuts). Photographed by Anna Jay.
Energy Bars
A packaged bar is perfect if you're in a rush. One suggestion from Davis: Try to find ones with limited added sugars, at least 3 grams of fiber, and mostly natural ingredients. Davis's personal favorites are from Bob’s Red Mill, 88acres, Larabar, and Rxbar.
(Davis is not affiliated with any of these brands.)Photo: Getty Images.
Egg-y Avocado Toast
It's not just a trendy brunch food. Avocado toast with an egg is the ultimate healthy pre-workout option, says Davis.
"Whole grain toast is loaded with fiber, and avocado has healthy fats," she says. "The egg adds protein, making this a complete meal."Photo: Getty Images.
Overnight Oats
Oats are nutritious and easily customizable. "Add pumpkin seeds for a great source of iron, and sesame for calcium," Davis says. "Top the oats with fruit to add an easily available energy source and add skim milk for even more protein."Photo: Getty Images.
Peanut Butter
A spoonful of peanut butter (or your favorite nut butter) straight out of the jar is certainly an option. "Nut butter is a great source of protein and fats," Davis says.But you can take it up a notch by combining it with other foods.
Bananas, for instance, are high in fiber and antioxidants. Apples are also a great choice to mix with your fave nut butter. Or try slathering PB on a rice cake for an extra hit of energizing carbs.Photographed by Alexandra Gavillet.
Celery + Nut Butter + Goji Berries
Celery is naturally water-rich and hydrating, Davis says. Top with nut butter and goji berries or raisins for a tasty, filling, and energizing snack. Plus, there's the nostalgia factor (ants on a log anyone?).Photo: Getty Images.
Veggies + Hummus
Hummus is mostly chickpeas, so it delivers solid doses of protein, carbs, and filling fiber, and the veggies offer up more healthy carbs and good-for-you antioxidants. You can swap out the dip for protein-rich Greek yogurt too.Photo: Getty Images.
Cheese + Crackers
This combo isn't just something to enjoy with a glass of wine on your night off — it's actually a pretty good snack to have before heading to your next kickboxing or yoga class.
Choose a healthy cracker (think Wasa) and a smaller portion of cheese (like one or two cheese sticks) for just the right amount of nutrients to support you through a grueling sweat sesh.Photo: Getty Images.
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The idea of long, booty-grazing box braids is sometimes more glamorous than the reality of having them. Sure, seeing Beyoncé with knee-length braids in her recent Ivy Park ad is convincing enough to go long or go home, but there are a few things to consider before you book your appointment.
For starters, long braids often require more maintenance — like needing to style them out of your face to exercise, wrapping them up before bed, and taking more time to wash and refresh them between appointments. Longer braids also mean you need more hair to create length, which can result in your style feeling heavier — and costing more— than you anticipated.
That's why bob-length box braids are the best of both worlds. If you're searching for a winter protective style that requires little-to-no work, but still looks fabulous, we've rounded up some of our favorite looks to inspire you, ahead.Burned ends, a deep side-part, and medium-sized braids make for the coolest 90s-inspired style.Hair accessories (like this patterned scarf) will come in clutch when you want to decorate your half-up ponytail. A short chop isn't limited to just box braids. You can also cut your side-swept lemonade braids into an asymmetrical bob to make them even sweeter. Chunky, chin-length braids will save you tons of time in the salon chair and still look super chic. Or, you can go a little longer, and ask your stylist to extend your braids into a center-parted lob.Gold details paired with brick-colored lipstick will make your protective style pop.Double buns and a swipe of electric green liner make this style feel fresh, sporty, and perfect for the upcoming festival season.One of the major perks of short box braids is that they're super easy to DIY. All you need are a few packs of braiding hair, edge control gel, elastic rubber bands — and one solid YouTube tutorial.
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This morning, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed its shortlist for the 92nd annual Oscars, with John Cho and Issa Rae appearing on livestream to announce the nominees in 24 categories. The backlash to the lack of representation was swift, and the snubs considerable: Of the 20 nominees for acting, only one was Black; Jennifer Lopez’s anticipated nod for her role in Hustlers was nowhere to be found; and zero women were named in the directing category for the second year in a row.
Thousands of disappointed moviegoers have taken to social media to express their frustrations in the hours since — and rightfully so. But there is one small-but-mighty victory that stands as a beacon of light amid so much controversy: the nomination of Hair Love for Best Animated Short Film.
The idea for the five-minute film, which tells the story of a Black father learning to do his daughter’s hair, was pitched by NFL wide receiver-turned-movie director Matthew A. Cherry and picked up by Sony Pictures Animation (with a bonus book adaptation) after surpassing its Kickstarter goal of $75,000 by over $200,000. Little did Cherry know when he launched the crowdfunding campaign in 2017 that his work would appear in theaters and star Issa Rae, much less that his dream of an Oscar nomination would come true.
In an interview at the time, Cherry told Refinery29 that teaming up with a major studio to make the film was little more than a pipe dream. “In a perfect world, I would love to treat it like an indie film and do the festival circuit,” he said in July 2017. “I would love if Disney, Pixar, or Sony animations saw it and would want to put it in one of their animated movies. Like maybe a short — that would be super ideal.”
With or without a major studio attached, the message of love and inclusivity behind the film has been a constant from day one. “Even though the film features an African-American daughter and her dad, I think it’s a universal story,” Cherry said. “Parents everywhere can relate to it in the same way. Kids of all ethnicities can see the humanity in this film. To me, it’s an important story because representation matters.”
With all the conversation around #OscarsSoWhite and the much-needed demand for more diversity in Hollywood, this nomination couldn’t have a better platform to drive home the importance of representation.
Refinery29 has reached out to Matthew A. Cherry for an updated comment, and we will update this piece if we hear back.
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On Sunday, Pelosi stopped by ABC’s “This Week” to make the vague and frankly terrifying claim that Trump has already been “impeached for life,” regardless of whatever shenanigans Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is inevitably planning to pull during the president’s upcoming Senate trial.
“This president is impeached for life regardless of any gamesmanship on the part of Mitch McConnell,” Pelosi said. “There is nothing the Senate can do to ever erase that.”
The comment inspired its own Twitter hashtag, #ImpeachedForLife, followed, in due time, by its unavoidable counterpart: #NancyPelosiFakeNews. It’s not the first time two of the most visible leaders of the free world have engaged in a spat so unproductive that it somehow makes the rest of Twitter look light and fun by comparison, and it certainly won’t be the last.
Trump and Pelosi’s feud runs deep and unrelenting — from the infamous Pelosi clap to the practically daily Twitterstorm sponsored by @realDonaldTrump to that letter about Trump’s impeachment. The bad blood between these two top-ranking U.S. leaders goes beyond just entertainment fodder — it’s elicited some of the most intense political quarrels (and low-brow jokes) perhaps in history. So without further ado, let’s take a look back at some of the high-profile clashes between Donald Trump and Nancy Pelosi.
Pelosi cancels Trump’s State of the Union
One of the most recognizable hallmarks of our current political moment is that, while everything feels uniquely bad, it somehow simultaneously feels like it’s all happening for the millionth time in a row — Groundhog Day-style. While it’s hard to remember for sure if the 2019 government shutdown was for sure the first time Pelosi and Trump publicly butted heads since the latter took office, seeing as how time doesn’t matter, it seems like a fine place to start.
After the House Speaker publicly rescinded her collegial invitation to Trump to deliver his State of the Union, citing the ongoing government shutdown as her reasoning, the president responded by summarily announcing that Pelosi’s planned trip to visit U.S. troops in Afghanistan had also been cancelled.
“Dear Madame Speaker: Due to the Shutdown, I am sorry to inform you that your trip to Brussels, Egypt, and Afghanistan has been postponed,” Trump wrote. “We will reschedule this seven-day excursion when the Shutdown is over,”
The infamous Pelosi Clap™
Nearly a month after the public meltdown over cancelled flights, Trump arrived at the Capitol Building to deliver his State of the Union address at long last. What he likely didn’t count on, however, was Pelosi being right there with him, locked and loaded, ready to antagonize like only someone who has spent their wading into political dogfights knows how to.
Not only did Pelosi show up in white — white! On HIS day! — she expertly stole Trump’s thunder with a couple of perfectly timed flashes of side-eye and an appropriately withering round of applause. Most importantly, the Pelosi Clap, which went down as one of the most meme-d moments maybe of Trump’s entire presidency. In this moment, Pelosi sarcastically clapped for Trump, pursing her lips, and seemingly holding back laugher as he turned around to look back at her and Vice President Mike Pence.
Pelosi announces the official impeachment inquiry into Trump
The incident that really launched the whole thing into the sun was the moment Pelosi caved to months of political pressure and officially announced that she was reversing her longstanding position on refusing to impeach Trump on some bizarre bipartisan impulse. This was the official mark of the impeachment inquiry into the president, to which he has refused to tolerate every step of the way.
At the close of one particular press conference Pelosi gave in the midst of a media firestorm over the impeachment proceedings, one reporter’s question wafted above the others as the House Speaker attempted to maker her way offstage: “Do you hate the President, Madam Speaker?”
The insinuation prompted to swivel around and hustle back to the podium for one final thought. “I don’t hate anybody,” she said. “I was raised in a Catholic house. We don’t hate anybody… I still pray for the President. I pray for the President all the time. So, don’t mess with me when it comes to words like that.”
It is widely acknowledged that telling somebody that you are “praying” for them is one of the most hilarious and classy ways to be rude, so hats off to Pelosi for really nailing the tone here.
The baffling Trump impeachment letter
Days before the House was slated to vote on two articles of impeachment against Trump, he published a jumbled six-page open letter addressed to “The Honorable Nancy Pelosi” in which he derided the entire proceeding as a partisan sham. Trump referred to the impeachment hearings as an “open war on democracy,” and Pelosi responded in kind by calling it “sick.”
Also within the letter, Trump accused Pelosi of “violating your oaths of office… [and] breaking your allegiance to the Constitution.” It quickly became the subject of Stephen Colbert’s “impeachment eve” rant.
Pelosi announces Trump’s impeachment with a distinct “mom side eye”
On December 19, 2019 — the day the House was set to vote on two articles of impeachment against President Trump — Pelosi once again threw a sartorial gauntlet. This time dressed in all-black and wearing a Mace of the Republic brooch meant to symbolize the legislative authority of the House of Representatives.
Also under close scrutiny on that day? Pelosi’s facial expression, which a body language expert told Refinery29could have been not-so-subtly repressed glee.
“She gave the mom side eye of admonishment,” the expert said. “If you look at her lips, there’s lack of symmetry. Part of her wants to be emotional and express outward.”
Merry Christmas, “Crazy Nancy Pelosi”
This is Trump’s go-to insult for the House Speaker on Twitter, and he’s deployed it dozens of times at this point. But, he even did it on Christmas this past year amid a riveting impeachment announcement. Middling burn, 4.5/10 stars.
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Highlights can be scary if you have dark hair: Too many of us have been burned by going into the salon for "subtle face-framing color" and leaving with our roots brassy and our hopes dashed. But that doesn't mean you can never consider a subtle lift — in fact, you should. Highlights can be an instant mood-booster and, when done right, look just like your hair, only brighter and shinier.
According to L.A.-based colorist Katie Cartwright, the key is finding a soft tone of brown to weave into your base shade. "You can brighten a dark hair color with a range of paler tones," she explains. "I often find the best undertones come from your complexion. For example, darker skin or eye colors will look great with bronze, copper, and caramel-colored highlights, while lighter complexions might opt for a toffee or beige-tinted lift."
Ahead, our favorite examples of the luminous effect a stealthy highlight can have over a dark root — a refreshing, yet perfectly believable, winter pick-me-up.Cartwright shows how to expertly weave a pale toffee-toned highlight over a brunette root, creatinga sun-kissed, lived-in effect.This caramel color is the result of a warm brown highlight diffused through the ends of the hair.Celebrity colorist Cassondra Kaeding calls actress Olivia Munn's highlight her signature "smoky gold" color. As you can see, the effect is as subtle as it gets, with a gilded kiss just at the tips.The warmth of the honey-brown highlight acts as a halo of flattering brightness around the face.This reddish-brown, borderline-cinnamon shade of balayage is soft, yet creates so much shimmery dimension over a black root.
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Being a New Yorker is about more than having the right zip code. There are also a few New York-specific rituals you must complete: You must attend at least one Yankees or Mets game — if not for the crowd antics, then for the overpriced beer. You must partake in a Sabrett hot dog when it's offered to you by a street vendor. And you must, absolutely must, get pierced at one of the many historic hot spots scattered all over the island (and in some outer boroughs).
And while a last-minute baseball game or a spontaneous hot dog is within reason, we don't recommend a new piercing being a spur-of-the-moment decision. Getting a new piercing requires some research: You have to hunt down the best placements, scope out trends, and, most importantly, find a piercer who can can do the service safely. Lucky for you, we made the search a little easier by tracking down the best piercing studios in New York — and exactly who you should make your appointment with. Our picks, ahead.The Shop: Studs
You won't have to subject yourself to sitting in grimy tattoo parlors or getting botched mall piercings thanks to Studs. The boutique opened up in late 2019, and it's where the curated Instagram-friendly ear comes to life in a cool, modern setting. At Studs, you can shop a range of costume and genuine jewelry to dress your existing piercings or get new ones from a pro. Before the needles come out, you're invited to a quick consult with a Studs piercer, who chats over what you want, what jewelry is best for you, and who can help you curate your "earscape." Then, you're taken into a private, well-lit, super-clean room where you can get pierced in peace.
Unlike many of its neighbors on NYC's bustling Prince Street, a service at Studs won't drain your entire bank account: Piercings start at $35 for one and $50 for two. All we want to know now is: Why wasn't this a thing when we were teens?
If you spent any time around the NYU campus in the '90s, chances are you've gotten pierced at New York Adorned — most likely after aimlessly wandering the streets of the East Village one late Friday night. But that was then and this is now. Now the shop has moved to Elizabeth Street, toggling the line between SoHo and the Lower East Side — and you should probably make an appointment. Why? The shop is famous, and it offers some of the best gold jewelry in the city. There's even a mini shop, called Love Adorned, within the piercing parlor that's a go-to spot for vintage, one-of-a-kind pieces. Consider it an added bonus that the shop has an in-house jewelry specialist who will chat with you ahead of your appointment to figure out the best placement for your piercing and how it might work with the curated collection of jewelry you already have.
If you've ever been to Sacred Tattoo to get inked, then you've probably heard of Nine Moons Piercing, which operates out of the same loft off Canal Street. It might not be the most well-known (yet!), but that's what makes it so cool: It's never flooded with tourists. And once you have your first appointment with Johnny or Starr, you'll find yourself instantly addicted to the team's expertise, especially when it comes to piercing trends, like the conch, forward helix, and daith.
Where: 424 Broadway #2; 212-226-4286.The Shop:The End Is Near
No, you don't have to take the trip to Manhattan to get a body piercing in New York. In fact, one of the most reputable hot spots in the city is outside the mainland in Brooklyn, specifically Park Slope. The only thing better than the piercing service at The End Is Near is the jewelry they sell. And, truly, what's a piercing without the cool decor you plan on putting in it? Bonus: The shop often offers special discounts including free piercings with every jewelry purchase.
Where: 429 7th Avenue; 347-335-0846.Photo: The End Is Near. The Shop:Maria Tash
The same way celebrities come to New York to get a tattoo at Bang Bang, they come to Maria Tash to get a curated piercing and buy loads of dainty jewelry. But you don't have to be one of the Hollywood elite to get amazing custom service. The team makes choosing your latest and greatest piercing easy — even if you're not quite sure what you're looking for.
Where: 653 Broadway; 212-253-0921.
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That’s not all. Your new partner’s uncle has been accused of sexual assault by a woman who says she was a 17-year-old sex trafficking victim at the time. Oh, and that same uncle allegedly uses racial slurs, too. You hear a rumor that an employee of the family business was pressured to quit because he’s gay. Then, after your wedding, you get more involved with the family business yourself — but the job requires you to constantly interact with representatives from media publications who write a lot of racist, sexist, and just plain infuriating things about you. (They even take issue with you closing your own car door.)Throughout all this, your partner stands by you, but his family does nothing — even after you have a baby. You feel miserable. It’s “really challenging,” as you once tearfully put it.
By now, you’ve probably guessed that we’re talking about Meghan Markle — or as she’s now known, the Duchess of Sussex. Last week, she and Prince Harry (now the Duke of Sussex) announced that they “intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen,” and to “balance our time between the United Kingdom and North America.” And while we don’t know that any of the above incidences informed their departure, the move definitely made us think a little harder about how the couple might have been feeling these past few years.
The decision was immediately dubbed “Megxit,” a play on “Brexit.” In a statement, the couple explained, “This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity.”
Critics have characterized Harry and Meghan’s decision as needlessly dramatic, and TV personality Piers Morgan even called them “spoiled brats.”
Reportedly, the Queen isn’t happy with them either; on Monday, her office put out a statement saying, “Although we would have preferred them to remain full-time working Members of the Royal Family, we respect and understand their wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family.”
But when examined from Harry’s and Meghan’s perspective, the move makes a lot of sense, says Moraya Seeger DeGeare, MA, licensed marriage and family therapist and the co-owner of BFF Therapy in Beacon, NY. “It’s really all about boundaries,” she says.
She points out that, while we don’t know the full story, it’s very likely Meghan and Harry tried to resolve the issues that led to their decision behind-the-scenes before going public with their announcement.
DeGeare specializes in culturally diverse counseling, and she says that while some people get a sense of what they’ll be getting into with their partner’s family, others don’t realize how bad it will be before they get married. “I’ve worked with couples where it really started after the wedding,” she says. “Maybe your partner really protected you from it. Sometimes you might even be like, ‘If I had known about this, I might have made a different choice, but now we’re here.”
If it’s simply a matter of not getting along with your in-laws, or not understanding their culture, DeGeare suggests that you “lead with empathy.” “Learning some of the traditions, or if there’s a language barrier learning some of that language, can be huge,” she says.
On your partner’s end, they should sit down with their family — and often it’s more helpful if you’re not there. “Sit down with mom or dad and say, ‘This is what I’m seeing,’ and have a heart-to-heart conversation,” she says. “The parents are more likely to talk candidly with their kid, rather than with the new spouse sitting there.”
Honesty, however, is key. “To keep the connectedness of the partnership, that spouse really needs to be open around what their limitations are, rather than trying to placate everyone,” DeGeare says. “Something I see in couple’s therapy a lot is the person will say all the right things to their partner, and then go to their mom and say all the right things to their mom, and then six months later, it blows up, and the partner feels like they were being lied to.”
It appears that Meghan and Harry weren’t just dealing with a culture clash, though — there are serious ethical concerns with the royal family’s behavior, from Prince Andrew’s alleged involvement in Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking of minorsto all the racism.
Setting a boundary and holding firm is a great choice, DeGeare says — and in fact, we can all take inspiration. “For couples to take a stance and say, ‘This racist comment or brooch, or that homophobic T-shirt you’re wearing, is not okay, and that’s why we’re not coming to the next family dinner,’ is the only thing that’s going to change our culture,” she says. That personal connection is vital: “Your uncle might be like, ‘All these millennials are so P.C.,’ but if his niece is saying, ‘I don’t want a relationship with you anymore because you’re really racist,’ he might actually listen.”
Similarly, stepping back from their royal duties is a logical decision — particularly taking a stance against the “Royal Rota,” the 40-year-old tradition requiring royals to give exclusive inside access to specific British media publications, including tabloids that have printed bigoted stories about Meghan. “It’s like if you had a homophobic person next to you in your cubicle and they kept making lewd comments. You might decide, Well, this paycheck’s not worth it. I care about my own existence. It’s the ultimate form of self-care.”
The newly-launched website (designed by the same company that worked with Meghan on her former blog The Tig, BTW)and statement Harry and Meghan released show that they’ve put thought into this decision, DeGeare says. “Clearly they’ve taken the time to be intentional with their actions. This isn’t, ‘We’re done!’ after getting mad over a meal. They’ve decided the consequences are worth it, otherwise, they wouldn’t do it.”
As Harry and Meghan move forward, the most important thing they can do is to maintain their united front, DeGeare says. And the same goes for any new couple dealing with toxic in-laws. “Honor the fact that you have a couple identity now, and really daydream about what that couple identity is going to look like,” she says. “That’s going to bring you back to how you handle all these situations. Ask, ‘Does this fit in with this identity we want to form?’” And if their new website is any indication, Harry and Meghan seem to know exactly what their couple identity is — free from centuries-old traditions.
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HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 27: Lupita Nyong’o attends the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences’ 11th Annual Governors Awards at The Ray Dolby Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland Center on October 27, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
The nominations for the upcoming 2020 Academy Awards proved to be very disappointing — as expected. Despite the fact that 2019 was one of the best years ever for women directors, the pool of nominees in the Best Director category didn’t include a single woman. Many of the awards across categories were also pointedly white, with some of the year’s most stunning performances by actors of color somehow not making the cut.
In March of 2019, fans filed into theaters across the country to watch Peele’s second horror project. Though we didn’t know what to expect, having seen and been scarred by Peele’s debut film Get Out (am I the only one who doesn’t drink tea like that anymore?), we already knew that the movie was going to be a true nightmare. That cursed remix of hip hop duo Luniz’s “I Got 5 On It” didn’t do anything to assuage our fears, but nevertheless, I entered the theater with high hopes.
For context, I am the last person to watch any horror film voluntarily. I am the most sensitive and easily scared person alive — literally everything gives me the creeps. But even my fears couldn’t keep me from supporting my two favorite people in Hollywood, Lupita Nyong’o and Winston Duke.
I was thrilled to learn that the actors, who I lovingly refer to as WinPita or LupSton, would appear in a film together as a married couple. Looking back, it was foolish of me to expect the duo, who are real-life friends, to be cutesy and couple-y in a horror film, but I was excited by the prospect. Nyong’o has always been my cousin in my head, and Duke…well, that’s my actual boyfriend and one true love. What could go wrong?
As it turned out, everything. In the two hours that I spent watching the film in the iconic Magic Johnson Theater in Harlem, I felt like I was too on edge to take a breath. I was filled with abject fear as I watched the story play out, each act more terrifying than the last.
In Us, Nyong’o takes on the role of Adelaide, a wife and mother whose childhood haunts her. She simultaneously plays the film’s antagonist Red, Adelaide’s bloodthirsty doppelgänger who is leading an underground revolution of Tethereds. She switches between characters with ease, playing Adelaide with anxiety that builds and spills out in a nearly barbaric survival instinct, while Red is played with an eerie and calculated calm. Talk less of Red’s throaty voice ( an artistic choice inspired by Nyong’o’s study of vocal disorders) or thatplot twist at the end of the film.
Us gifted audiences with one of the most textured, multi-dimensional, and convincing performances out of Hollywood thus far. I, as a former dues-paying member of Lupita Hive, even had to unfollow the Black Panther starlet on Instagram because I couldn’t look at her without seeing her Tethered and hearing her growl. After a performance that powerful, why didn’t the Academy honor her work with a nomination?
Nyong’o has won an Oscar before; in 2013, she took home the win for her role in 12 Years a Slave, based on the incredible story of Solomon Northup. But, as one Twitter user pointed out, she and the 34 other Black women in Oscar history that were nominated across the Lead/Supporting Actress categories only earned the recognition for roles in which they were either slaves, maids, or burdened by the weight of poverty.
Does the refusal to acknowledge the varied narratives of Black women during awards season reflect a general disinterest in our stories? Queen & Slim director Melina Matsoukas says yes. After her film was also snubbed for a Golden Globe, Matsoukas revealed that there were only a few members of the Hollywood Foreign Press who even bothered to take the time to watch it in full.
“It just represents an archaic system that is full of people who don’t value us,” the director said. “They don’t value the stories that represent all of us, and those stories are so often disregarded and discredited, as are their filmmakers.”
The bob may be the reigning cool-girl cut, and you may have a few friends who are snipping their hairstyles into impossibly chic pixies — but that doesn't mean we've turned up our noses at Rapunzel-like length.
Whether you've been growing your hair out for years or prefer to fake it with wigs and extensions, there's no limit to the number of hairstyles you can pull off with long hair. Braids woven with colorful scarves, top-knots secured with glittering clips, long locs styled into loose waves — the possibilities are endless.
So, for the next time you feel a style slump coming on, we've rounded up some of our favorite styles to try, from decorated ponytails for brunch with your crew to Old Hollywood waves for a black-tie event — most of which you can whip up with your own two hands, no salon styling experience necessary.Even if your hair doesn't naturally cascade past your shoulders, you can add extensions to your ponytail to replicate this trendy flipped-out look. Disguise your four-day-old blowout with a large scrunchie and blinged-out hair clips. No one will ever know you're overdue for a shampoo. Nicki Minaj's hair reaches all the way down to her Osmose boots — and looks amazing with a simple center part and stick-straight styling.Switch up your part and slick your waves back to keep all the attention on your makeup — even better if that means emphasizing your pink eyeshadow.Speaking of slicking back: Adding rhinestone hair clips to the mix is not only cute, but genuinely practical if you're tired of brushing your hair off your face.A tousled braid suddenly becomes an Instagrammable vacation hairstyle when paired with a floral printed scarf. Now we just need to book a flight…Tie your waist-length cornrows into a big plait and spend a few extra minutes swooping your baby hairs to recreate this fly look. A regular shmegular ponytail is cool, but to really turn heads, tie multiple pieces of black ribbon around yours to create a bubble effect that looks red carpet-ready, but is surprisingly simple.Practice this half-chignon, half-ponytail for when you need a classic style that's business in the front and party in the back.We're not even halfway through January, but this woven neon look has us hyped for festival season.When working with length like J.Lo's, take full advantage by rocking full, shiny Old Hollywood waves.Locs are even dreamier when styled in loose waves, which you can do with the help of flexi-rods overnight.Let this slick center part with waves be your motivation for spending a little extra time with your curling wand in the morning.Fair warning: We're only braiding our hair with colorful scarves this spring. The best part of rocking super-long knotless box braids? Your scalp won't cry for help when you pull it up in a high bun.Fishtail braids feel more modern when tied up into a top-knot bun.This half-puff, half-cornrow look is the perfect lazy protective style when you don't want to spend all day braiding your hair. Lea Michele basically dropped the mic on all ponytail-braid hybrids with her triple knotted plait.Weave some ribbon through a single plait and pin it into a low bun for instant class.
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