Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
lundi 8 mai 2017
Drew Barrymore: "I Want to Be the Rock That Floats"
I enter through a grand wooden door of a mansion in Monterey, CA - we're talking Big Little Lies status with sweeping views of the Pacific in front of me. I'm there to interview Drew Barrymore, who is in the midst of an elaborate photo shoot for Barrymore Wines, a wine label she has developed in partnership with Carmel Road. She has just released the 2016 Monterey Rosé of Pinot Noir ($23), a wine I'll try while catching up with the ever-quotable actress. As I step into the foyer, Drew cuts across the room, half sandwich in hand to take her lunch break. She stops upon recognition and draws me in for a hug.
"It's been a year," Drew sighs. "What a year it's been," I echo. Last April, we sat at a sunny window seat, sipped Rosé a little too early in the day, and discussed everything but her relationship status on what might have been the most challenging day of her life. The afternoon before, she and Will Kopelman announced their divorce. "[E]ventually you start to find grace in the idea that life goes on," the two said in the official press release. Those words seem to ring true for Drew. We have a lot to discuss.
I'm led down rugged stone steps in the backyard to a flat, leaf-blanketed nook. After her break, Drew floats down the steps to join me, wearing a floral BCBG dress. A teal-and-indigo Missoni cardigan hangs off her shoulders. She scrunches her tousled hair - it's become somewhat of a legend since this year's Golden Globes.
The man responsible for Drew's hair is Daniel Howell (he goes by Mr. Daniel). He uses a diffuser to dry her hair "without breaking up the natural wave pattern," Mr. Daniel tells me. Then, he wraps the midsection of the completely dry hair (not the roots or the ends) around a curling iron to "enhance and define the texture." To finish, he mists her hair lightly with Evian to soften "that curling ironed look." Fine mineral water spritzed in her hair isn't the only reason Drew looks so luminous.
Drew's eyes glow thanks to her makeup artist Debra Ferullo, who uses Drew's own line of makeup, Flower Beauty. Debra combines the Foxy Brown Shadow Quad and Shimmer and Shade Eyeshadow Palette and dresses the waterlines with Long-Wear Eyeliner in Brownstone. I can't help but become transfixed when Debra pats something iridescent on the center of Drew's lids. It's the Astral White Pigment found in Pat McGrath Labs DarkStar 006, and it ignites the rosy shadows into a luscious, pearly glimmer. Drew looks damn good - and I know that sort of stunning beauty comes from feeling good too.
We sit alone on wooden stools set next to a rustic table styled for the shoot. The sun and sea breeze dance around us. It's completely silent save for the distant noise of waves crashing on the rocky cliffside and leaves rattling on the treetops. We sip our glasses of Rosé. It's tangy and thirst-quenching and tastes like a memory of a cold, rocky coastline. It juxtaposes the warm day nicely. This moment, these surroundings, Drew and I both breathe in the splendor and smile at one other. I start the interview with a simple question and hope she gives me an honest answer.
"How are you?" I ask earnestly. She responds, "We're all going through so much hard, wonderful, amazing . . . it's blessings; it's lessons; it's hardship; it's life. I guess, I don't know what the definition of life is. I now know the meaning of my life, because of my daughters, but mine is one little tiny speck in the universe. It's nice to not be pretending everything is perfect all the time, because it isn't, but I do love happiness and joy and optimism. I'm not a depressive type; I don't want to be around them. I don't even want to watch a dramatic movie right now. I can't, it's too heavy."
POPSUGAR: You recently said something in an interview that made me think, "Yes! I want this to be my mantra." You said, "I want to be optimistic, problem-solving, solution-oriented. I want to make people happy." How do you live by those values even on hard days?
Drew Barrymore: I can't get caught up in darkness. I just don't. I always want to gravitate towards light. I love picking yourself up or surviving or being grateful for the good stuff and not getting lost in the tough stuff. The discipline is so natural for me.
PS: It seemed like this year was really good for you . . . The public appearances you made, you seemed so radiant. What inspired that?
DB: It was a really hard year actually. I tried to put on a brave face. I felt it in the moment and I never felt inauthentic, but it wasn't without its reality checks and struggles. When you have a big life change, it takes a long time to get used to either the new format or the understanding that you need to create a new dream. Or if things didn't work out, mourning the death of that dream. It's hard, because that's a very private journey. If I read something that's really intense and depressive, I will face it; I will try - but there's plenty of times I also run away. I think it's trying to find a balance between the positive and the negative. They don't exist without each other. It's the polarity; it's two sides of a coin. You can't get one without the other. I don't wallow. I can't stand it.
PS: You mentioned creating a "new dream" for your life. Do you mind sharing it?
DB: My life is so different than what I thought it would be when I engaged in this new chapter. Whether it be like married-with-kids or living-in-California, all these funny things you tell yourself about what your plan is and then your plan goes out the window. I think it takes a while to transition, but you will get there if you get yourself there. I'm excited about the work you have to do. Happiness takes work. It doesn't always fall off trees or come easily. You really have to be someone that doesn't fall prey to being sad. I don't want sad, I can't be sad, I don't want to be about sad; I avoid sad. It inherently envelops you, so do everything that you can to escape it all the time.
My best friend Nancy Juvonen always loved to say, "Happiness is a choice." When I was a kid I would say, "Happiness is a choice"; it's so hippie and lovely. Then as a woman, it's the word "choice" that's the war. That's the valiant effort to be happy, sometimes it takes a lot of work.
"My life is so different than I thought it would be."
PS: I'm sure that involves habits. Did you form any new ones this year?
DB: I did a lot of exercise to feel good in my mind. Whether my body changed or not was superfluous. The discipline of going somewhere and sweating or moving gave me all the more incentive to go to the corner store, get the slice of pizza after, and completely annihilate everything I had worked for - but my brain felt good. Physicality was a big wake-up call for me.
Not to like sit in the sh*t but work out and walk and keep my headphones with me everywhere I went. I loved listening to music again. You have kids, you have a family and you kind of lose touch sometimes with habits, as you said, rituals that you had before. You're so overwhelmed and distracted, and it's so wonderful and you're so present with it. You, in a good way, lose yourself. And then, over time you start to find things that you had love for, and they come back. Music has been a big one for me.
PS: Who are you listening to right now?
DB: I'm so obsessed with Solange's song with Blood Orange "Losing You," "I Dare You" by The XX. Fun, great songs. Those are my two favorites right now, and I'm sure they're not even the current this week.
PS: I think songs find us at the right time.
DB: I walked by this woman at a burger stand the other day and she was telling her friend - really trying to painfully figure things out. I was like, "Yup! Isn't everybody." Their life is so relevant to them, and their problems are so big. The way that they solve them is so interesting. I don't think anyone is coasting on this earth. I think everybody does feel incredible struggles. Any day that you're not held down by the struggle, celebrate it! Be present, because I feel like I lost sight of that for a while going through hard stuff. And now, I'm really enjoying the good moments.
"Any day that you're not held down by the struggle, celebrate it!"
PS: No one would ever know that about you. How you live is an example to many.
DB: Know it's no rodeo clown, like, "Everything is awesome!" I really worked hard on myself and things and struggled to get to a good place, to a better place.
PS: You're involved in so many projects too. How do you do it? How do you become an entrepreneur in so many facets?
DB: My personal life never affects my focus on work and [the] joy that that work brings me. That's a really important lesson for my daughters - have a good work ethic. I really enjoy applying myself. I like the distraction that it causes. Having kids now obviously I dial back the time I spend at work so I can be more with my kids. But when I get back to work or get to do work, I'm very focused and psyched. All moms feel so much guilt all the time, so the more time you spend with your kids the more you time you also enjoy being able to step away and do something that makes you want to make them proud. I think my whole life, work has been a very important and positive thing for me. It never was something that made me feel unhappy or disengaged from life. It always makes me feel like I'm plugged in, in a really healthy way.
"I want to be the rock that floats."
PS: So many of our readers come to our site because they may be in a rut, whether it's in a relationship or a job that's not working. What advice do you have to offer?
DB: Get yourself out. Be brave. Don't leave before you're ready, because you should know that you tried everything. So there's a conviction and a confidence when you step away from something that may or may not be conducive to your life. I think if you run away too quickly, you're going to have that "Oh God, did I try everything?" feeling. Try everything. Make it work. Do everything you can. If it's not working, then know when the signal is and move on. Change. Try something different.
PS: I love that idea of confidence with conviction. How have you found that for yourself?
DB: I stay in it until it no longer works.
PS: Did anyone teach you that confidence?
DB: No, because I grew up in such an inconsistent family dynamic. I don't know why I have a rock-like behavior but I refuse to be the rock that drowns. I want to float and live and survive. I want to be the rock that floats.
PS: I'm watching Santa Clarita Diet and I'm dying laughing, meanwhile my boyfriend is white as a ghost. "She's just eating fondant cake body parts," I keep telling him!
DB: Exactly! Victor [Fresco], the creator and I, we don't think it's that gross or gory. I'm like, "Is something wrong with us, Victor? Seriously." People are losing their lunch. Hopefully, I would suggest not eating while you watch the show, [so] you can get into [it]. Aside from all the blood and guts, it's about a family and the human condition. I found the show at a time where I knew I was getting divorced. It was very helpful [for] me to have this man say, "I've been married to my wife for 25 years and if she woke up one day and everything was turned upside down, how would I deal with it?" I thought that's so hopeful and cool. Set to a really f*cking weird backdrop. I loved it.
"Aside from all the blood and guts, [Santa Clarita Diet] is about a family and the human condition."
PS: Have you started filming season two? Can you provide any more details?
DB: We start in like a month and a half and I'm so excited. Victor took me through the whole second season, because I produce the show. I get to be privileged to know what I'm going into, which really helps, because TV is so mysterious. I wouldn't know how to sign up as an actress. What if I'm signed up for something I don't like? I have nothing to do [with the writing]. This man comes up with all this crazy sh*t that I'm totally into. There's such humanity and normal themes behind it that I can relate to it. I think it comes from my training with E.T. You can have aliens, but it's in suburbia. It's in your backyard.
I would not know what to do if you put me in outer space. I'd be like, "Where the f*ck am I?" I love science fiction. I'm all for it, but I would be lost as an actor. Make it in a backyard, in a house in a suburbia, and I'm good to go. Back to the Future? Time travel, but it was suburban, so you believed in it. Don't go so far away from home. Home is the best theme. You can do flesh eating, time travel, aliens, but you're watching human beings go through it, so you have a nicer relatability at the end of the day.
PS: Can you tease anything about the "crazy sh*t" that goes down in season two?
DB: Weirdly, Netflix is secretive, so they don't allow it. I'm always like, "Is it that serious that we can't give a storyline away?" But they're pretty private. I like it, because they're internet savvy. They know how quickly something will go. They're a very cool partner to work with.
PS: Do you anticipate working more with TV now that you've had this experience?
DB: I have no idea where my life is going and for the first time in my life, I find that to be the most liberating feeling I've ever known. I've always been untethered in my life. Sometimes out of that chaos, you want to create stability. I'm at a moment right now where as long as my daughters have stability, then I like the life adventure and not knowing where it's going. Ironically, my daughters, every time I present an airplane ticket to them, they're like, "Where are we going?!" They're so excited. I'm glad we didn't stay still. Staying still is a very easy thing to fall into. It can be as easy as going out on a Saturday and trying to discover a new thing. It doesn't have to be grand. Getting out of your comfort zone, creating an adventure is really good.
Can You Spot These Beautiful Celebrity Tattoos From the MTV Movie Awards?
There are a lot of obvious elements to admire when a celebrity walks the red carpet at an award show - her gown, her hair, her makeup - but make sure you don't miss the details. And by that, we mean her tattoos! Stars often cover their body ink for different movie and TV roles, but everything gets exposed when they rock those sexy dresses.
Also, because celebrities get access to top tattoo artists, they often have chicer-than-average designs. So if you're thinking about getting inked, you may want to look for some Hollywood inspiration. Keep reading to see all of the tattoos we spotted at the Golden Globes, People's Choice Awards, SAG Awards, Grammys, Oscars, Met Gala, and MTV Movie and TV Awards.
Just 16 Pictures of Charlie Hunnam Looking Hot as Hell in King Arthur
King Arthur: Legend of the Sword truly has something for everyone: Guy Ritchie as the director (meaning kickass action), a tale as old as time, and Charlie freakin' Hunnam. Sure, Jude Law, Djimon Hounsou, and Eric Bana are some grade-A hunks too, but don't even try to tell me that you're not stoked to see Hunnam as the brave young Arthur. Ahead of the film's release, take a look through all the pictures of Hunnam looking fierce AF.
If You F*cking Hate Dealing With Diaper Genie Bags, This Dad's Hack Is For You
Diaper Genie Users: save the blue ring and use your own trash bags - we've saved a lot of money with this one! from lifehacks
Attention all Diaper Genie users who have had more than one frustrating encounter with the contraption's unruly blue bags: your days of cursing out the stinky, tubular device are over. Thanks to one dad, Reddit user UncoolDad31, you can all now slam your palms into your faces as you marvel at this simple time- and money-saving hack.
Accompanying a photo of his own Diaper Genie, the dad wrote, "Diaper Genie users: save the blue ring and use your own trash bags - we've saved a lot of money with this one!"
In the photo, the dad demonstrates how to use a regular garbage bag in your own Diaper Genie rather than the ones that are meant to be purchased with the product: place the bag into the can, then wrap the top of the bag over the top of the opening as you would with any garbage can. Place one of the leftover plastic blue rings from the Diaper Genie bag refills over the top of the bag opening, reattach the lid, and throw away diapers as usual.
So simple. So genius. So much less of a clusterf*ck.
Just 16 Pictures of Charlie Hunnam Looking Hot as Hell in King Arthur
King Arthur: Legend of the Sword truly has something for everyone: Guy Ritchie as the director (meaning kickass action), a tale as old as time, and Charlie freakin' Hunnam. Sure, Jude Law, Djimon Hounsou, and Eric Bana are some grade-A hunks too, but don't even try to tell me that you're not stoked to see Hunnam as the brave young Arthur. Ahead of the film's release, take a look through all the pictures of Hunnam looking fierce AF.
WTF, a Congressman Actually Said "Nobody Dies" From Not Having Healthcare Access
One Republican congressman was met with a boatload of criticism for his seemingly uneducated explanation of the new healthcare bill and its potential effects. In an Idaho town hall meeting on May 5, an attendee asked Rep. Raúl Labrador about the impact the GOP bill would have on Medicaid recipients specifically. "You are mandating people on Medicaid to accept dying," the woman said in the video ahead.
The conservative congressman, who is also a member of the House Freedom Caucus, responded to the woman's concerns in the most rage-inducing way. "No one wants anyone to die," Labrador said. "That line is so indefensible . . . nobody dies because they don't have access to health care." As you may expect, his comment was met with a flurry of boos and yells, which could probably be heard from outside the meeting room.
After catching wind of the backlash on social media, Labrador took to Facebook to offer an explanation of his comments, admitting that his answer "wasn't very elegant." He continued, "I was responding to a false notion that the Republican health care plan will cause people to die in the streets, which I completely reject." He clarified in his Facebook post that the Republican healthcare plan does not alter patients' right to seek emergency hospital care, even if they're unable to pay for it. And yet, here we are still shaking our heads as to why he even made the ridiculous comment in the first place.
If You F*cking Hate Dealing With Diaper Genie Bags, This Dad's Hack Is For You
Diaper Genie Users: save the blue ring and use your own trash bags - we've saved a lot of money with this one! from lifehacks
Attention all Diaper Genie users who have had more than one frustrating encounter with the contraption's unruly blue bags: your days of cursing out the stinky, tubular device are over. Thanks to one dad, Reddit user UncoolDad31, you can all now slam your palms into your faces as you marvel at this simple time- and money-saving hack.
Accompanying a photo of his own Diaper Genie, the dad wrote, "Diaper Genie users: save the blue ring and use your own trash bags - we've saved a lot of money with this one!"
In the photo, the dad demonstrates how to use a regular garbage bag in your own Diaper Genie rather than the ones that are meant to be purchased with the product: place the bag into the can, then wrap the top of the bag over the top of the opening as you would with any garbage can. Place one of the leftover plastic blue rings from the Diaper Genie bag refills over the top of the bag opening, reattach the lid, and throw away diapers as usual.
So simple. So genius. So much less of a clusterf*ck.
Noah Cyrus's MTV Performance Will Have You Hitting Repeat Over and Over
VÍDEO | Actuación completa de Noah en los #MTVAwards http://pic.twitter.com/0EeQX4c9AV
- Noah Cyrus Spain (@NoahCyrusSpain) May 8, 2017
Noah Cyrus hit up the MTV Movie and TV Awards on Sunday, where she slayed not only the red carpet but also the stage. The 17-year-old up-and-coming singer is following in older sister Miley Cyrus's footsteps with memorable performances, and her lively rendition of "Stay Together" at the annual award show was no different. Thanks to its California-themed set and the song's Summer vibe, we can't help but be reminded of a certain Miley anthem, "Party in the U.S.A." Now excuse us while we go put this on repeat from now until forever . . .
Billy Cyrus Is a Total Stage Dad For Noah at the MTV Movie and TV Awards
The MTV Movie and TV Awards were Noah Cyrus's big night - she performed her new single "Stay Together" for the first time, and like any good dad, Billy Ray Cyrus also showed up to support his younger daughter. There was no sign of sister Miley, so it made for an adorable daddy-daughter date, complete with the two hanging out in the audience, just the two of them.
35 Laundry Tips and Tricks That Everyone Should Know
The words "laundry day" strike fear in even the bravest of hearts. Still, it simply has to happen - but it doesn't have so bad! We've rounded up the best DIYs, tips, and laundry hacks that will make laundry day the best it can possibly be.
Visit our Snapchat today for our favorite laundry hack to keep your whites bright!
The Blade Runner 2049 Trailer Is Way Grosser Than Anticipated
While most of us are worried that the world will end by 2020, apparently the real problems won't start until 30 years from now, according to the full trailer for Blade Runner 2049. The Blade Runner sequel kicks off three decades after the events of the first film, following a new blade runner, LAPD Officer K (Ryan Gosling), as he gradually uncovers a secret that might mean the end of humanity as he knows it. Fans of the original need not fear: the trailer looks promising, and Harrison Ford's Rick Deckard character is back in action. Blade Runner 2049 also costars Jared Leto and Robin Wright and has Arrival's Denis Villeneuve as director and futuristic horror king Ridley Scott as executive producer. The movie is out on Oct. 6!
The Blade Runner 2049 Trailer Is Way Grosser Than Anticipated
While most of us are worried that the world will end by 2020, apparently the real problems won't start until 30 years from now, according to the full trailer for Blade Runner 2049. The Blade Runner sequel kicks off three decades after the events of the first film, following a new blade runner, LAPD Officer K (Ryan Gosling), as he gradually uncovers a secret that might mean the end of humanity as he knows it. Fans of the original need not fear: the trailer looks promising, and Harrison Ford's Rick Deckard character is back in action. Blade Runner 2049 also costars Jared Leto and Robin Wright and has Arrival's Denis Villeneuve as director and futuristic horror king Ridley Scott as executive producer. The movie is out on Oct. 6!
10 Things to Never Say to an Independent Woman
If almost every Destiny's Child song is your life anthem, throw your hands up at me. Independent women are often perceived as man-hating feminists who are intimidating and cold. It's easy to misunderstand us, but the truth of the matter's that we're a no-bullsh*t breed. We're strong willed, comfortable with ourselves, and above all, self-reliant. So when something or someone challenges us in anyway, we're not the most soft spoken. But that's not to say we're not as compassionate and loving as the next person. We just have a more direct route of getting from point A to point B, whether in conversation or life. So to avoid any "intimidating and cold" responses the next time you speak to us, try to refrain from using any of the following phrases.
1. "You're going by yourself?"
Telling someone you went out to dinner alone or on a solo movie date evokes almost the same reaction as would saying you played catch with yourself. Some give you that sad look and others just don't get it. No, it's not lonely or depressing for us. We're comfortable enough to have a great time on our own. In fact, it's the best way to achieve mental clarity and self-awareness, and personal outings are something more should embrace.
2. "He completes me."
I'm sorry - were you only half a being before? This phrase may seem "romantic" but if you think about it, it's kind of sad. Saying that another person is responsible for making you feel whole suggests that you can't stand on your own. Independent women love themselves first before loving anyone else, which is why we're not as hung up when insignificant flings don't work out.
3. "Why are you single?"
Simple - because we want to be. Sure, we may have options, but we don't want to waste our time on meaningless relationships. We like to surround ourselves with those smarter and better than us. If we don't believe the potential candidate can contribute equal or better qualities, there's no appeal.
4. "He should pay because he's the guy."
Who doesn't enjoy being treated once in a while? But once it becomes an expectation, that's when it gets problematic. Ladies, we work and pay bills, too. There is no excuse (especially gender) for us to peg the bill on our date when we're fully capable of it ourselves.
5. "Your loss."
No, dude - your loss. It's not about being overly confident or cocky. We know our self-value and don't feel the need to have to educate someone else if they can't see it on their own.
6. "You shouldn't . . ." or "You can't . . ."
Wait, who are you? Unless we actively sought your opinion (which we have no problem doing), your permission is not required for anything. Independent women know what we want and don't like being told what to do. However, we know the difference between stubbornness and assertiveness. We value multiple views and openly welcome thoughts outside of ours, but if it just feels like you're trying to exert power over us for the sake of control, we won't have any of it.
7. "Can I bring my boyfriend/husband/date/partner?"
Heads up - this one really irks us. There are appropriate times to bring your significant other and then there are occasions (like girls' night, dinner plans, etc.) that don't require bringing a plus one. It's not that we have any issues with him or her (unless we do) - it's slightly irritating when one can't bear to stray away for a period of time.
8. [Insert overly glorifying compliment here.]
Independent women like to be respected but not placed on a pedestal. Sometimes, it can even get a little uncomfortable. We like for our talents and qualities to be recognized but we don't need constant reassurance. We're secure enough to take care of that department on our own.
9. "Let me do that for you."
Thanks, but no thanks. Last time we checked we had arms and legs, too. We don't have any issues asking when help is needed but we take offense when you assume we can't do it ourselves. It's not about feeding our ego - we don't like feeding gender roles that continue to trap us into this perception that women need help. Feel free to offer your assistance but please don't insist on it.
10. "I need him/her."
Independent women want but don't need a partner. We view relationships as a plus, not the means to an end. We welcome connections that can add value to our lives but aren't on the hunt for the sake of filling a void.
The Full, Funky Soundtrack For Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
One of the biggest reasons we all fell for Guardians of the Galaxy back in 2014 is its retro soundtrack that possibly made you feel like you were at a rowdy wedding reception in 1982. We're happy to report that the soundtrack for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is just as fun. The 14-track collection includes hits from Fleetwood Mac, Electric Light Orchestra, Cheap Trick, and Cat Stevens. Listen to all the songs here, and scroll to the end for a Spotify playlist!
The Cast of Stranger Things Had the Best Reaction to Their MTV Award Win
The adorable cast of Stranger Things took home one the biggest trophies of the night, winning show of the year at the 2017 MTV Movie and TV Awards. Their joyous reaction to their victory made us love them even more, if that's even possible. Watch their speech above, then read on to see how the cast celebrated backstage with their popcorn trophy.
The Full, Funky Soundtrack For Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
One of the biggest reasons we all fell for Guardians of the Galaxy back in 2014 is its retro soundtrack that possibly made you feel like you were at a rowdy wedding reception in 1982. We're happy to report that the soundtrack for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is just as fun. The 14-track collection includes hits from Fleetwood Mac, Electric Light Orchestra, Cheap Trick, and Cat Stevens. Listen to all the songs here, and scroll to the end for a Spotify playlist!
Emma Watson Had the Sweetest Reaction to the MTV Awards's Beauty and the Beast Opener
Emma Watson reacts like everyone else when she see Belle IRL #MTVAwards http://pic.twitter.com/xATq4XiO5r
- Nicole Dellert (@nic_heartsburgs) May 8, 2017
Emma Watson might be the biggest Belle fan of them all. The Beauty and the Beast actress looked overjoyed during the Disney-themed opener at the Movie and TV Awards on Sunday night. While host Adam DeVine's beast costume was certainly over the top, Hailee Steinfeld shocked everyone when she ripped off her jacket to reveal Belle's iconic ballgown. Thankfully, the camera caught Emma's priceless reaction as she mouthed "So cute!" to the person sitting next to her. You can catch the adorable GIF below.
Dad Figures Out How to "Punish" His Son After He Admits to Stealing
When his 5-year-old admitted to stealing a pack of gum, one dad knew that rather than take things away from his son or ground him, he needed to come up with a way to teach him about the real-life consequences of theft. The father, who goes by userbelowisamonster on Reddit, shared his method in a post aptly titled: "Parenting, just making it up as we go. Theft edition."
This dad first realized something was fishy when his 5-year-old offered him a piece of the contraband after a trip to the store. "When I had my back turned he apparently just picked it up and walked out," he wrote. "I found this out after he was chewing it and offered me a piece (because 5-year-old logic). So I asked him if he paid for it and he told me no. I told him how proud I was for him telling me the truth, but disappointed that he had to resort to stealing."
He thought carefully about how to "punish" his son, and came up with an age-appropriate way the boy could "pay off his debts."
So I figured how much the gum cost and added on $0.50 for a "fine." So total came to $2.50. I made him do odd jobs that are appropriate for a 5-year-old and told him until he pays off his debt he doesn't get any privileges like TV, tablet, or playing outside. So he worked off $1.50 and then I told him for "community service" he needs to clean his room by himself and clean up his brother's toys, too. I told him that this would also count for his last dollar. So now he's in his room cleaning it up and I can hear the occasional "Ugh! I'm never going to steal again!"
So there you have it. Child-size versions of real life consequences. I'd rather he learn them now than steal as a teenager and face hefty fines, community service, or even jail time. But to make this into a positive I'm going to start giving him an allowance for completing his chores and teaching him about money and proper finances.
And as for fessing up his actions to the store? "After he earns his money he will go apologize. Dad's not paying for this to bail him out."
13 Reasons Why: What We Already Know About Season 2's Plot
Netflix has officially renewed 13 Reasons Why for a second season, and what little information we have about the new episodes has already disproved most of our theories about how it will go forward. We thought perhaps season two could take place at another school, or maybe it would revolve around Alex's perspective, but it sounds like the new episodes will simply pick up where season one leaves off. According to Netflix, season two will begin "in the aftermath of Hannah Baker's death and the start of the characters' complicated journeys toward healing and recovery." Executive producer Selena Gomez also posted a teaser with the caption, "Their story isn't over."
Before the renewal news was confirmed, creator Brian Yorkey told The Hollywood Reporter, "Hannah's story is still very much not finished. She's an integral part of whatever the next chapter of the story is, and she's very much still at the center of it."
Stay tuned for more season two news!
Dad Figures Out How to "Punish" His Son After He Admits to Stealing
When his 5-year-old admitted to stealing a pack of gum, one dad knew that rather than take things away from his son or ground him, he needed to come up with a way to teach him about the real-life consequences of theft. The father, who goes by userbelowisamonster on Reddit, shared his method in a post aptly titled: "Parenting, just making it up as we go. Theft edition."
This dad first realized something was fishy when his 5-year-old offered him a piece of the contraband after a trip to the store. "When I had my back turned he apparently just picked it up and walked out," he wrote. "I found this out after he was chewing it and offered me a piece (because 5-year-old logic). So I asked him if he paid for it and he told me no. I told him how proud I was for him telling me the truth, but disappointed that he had to resort to stealing."
He thought carefully about how to "punish" his son, and came up with an age-appropriate way the boy could "pay off his debts."
So I figured how much the gum cost and added on $0.50 for a "fine." So total came to $2.50. I made him do odd jobs that are appropriate for a 5-year-old and told him until he pays off his debt he doesn't get any privileges like TV, tablet, or playing outside. So he worked off $1.50 and then I told him for "community service" he needs to clean his room by himself and clean up his brother's toys, too. I told him that this would also count for his last dollar. So now he's in his room cleaning it up and I can hear the occasional "Ugh! I'm never going to steal again!"
So there you have it. Child-size versions of real life consequences. I'd rather he learn them now than steal as a teenager and face hefty fines, community service, or even jail time. But to make this into a positive I'm going to start giving him an allowance for completing his chores and teaching him about money and proper finances.
And as for fessing up his actions to the store? "After he earns his money he will go apologize. Dad's not paying for this to bail him out."
Why Millennial Women Are Embracing Atheism
Danielle Schacter never thought she would become an un-Christian. "I slowly became more and more disgusted by the way I saw people treating others," says the 32-year-old, who was raised Baptist. "I didn't want to be associated with a religion that preached so much hate."
Danielle Schacter, who identifies as agnostic, is one of a growing number of people who identify with no religion. Photo courtesy of Danielle Schacter.
Schacter, like so many millennials, has chosen a secular life, and she's not alone: according to the Pew Research Center, only four in 10 millennials say that religion is very important to them, compared with six in 10 Baby Boomers.
The numbers of religiously unaffiliated support this, too: 23 percent of the population identifies with no religion. This number is up from 2007, when it was only 16 percent. Of older millennials, 35 percent are religiously unaffiliated - and they're driving the overall growth of the nonreligiously affiliated in America.
"I didn't want to be associated with a religion that preached so much hate."This is a big deal. To be religiously unaffiliated means you not only avoid identifying as a Christian or Jew or Muslim, but that you eschew organized faith altogether. From there, "nonreligious" can be broken down into four categories: secularism (the belief in separation of church and state and that all beliefs are equal), agnosticism (the belief that it's impossible to know if there is a god), humanism (the idea that human reason drives us, not higher powers), and atheism (the belief that there is no god). This last group, the atheists, has become increasingly vocal in recent years. They are fighting to keep religion separated from laws that affect them and to shift society away from religious trappings.
Kayley Whalen, a queer transgender Latinx woman who identifies as "a humanist and an existentialist and an atheist." Photo courtesty of Kayley Whalen.
What's fascinating is that while millennials are moving away from religion, they are moving toward spirituality. This demographic considers itself just as spiritual as older demographics, even as they represent an exodus out of organized religion and into the throes of secularism. When you consider the issues facing young people today, the reasons for the exodus are easy to understand. In rejecting religion, millennials are asserting their progressive attitudes and passion for social justice. They're committed to the idea that they don't need religion to know the difference between right and wrong.
Perhaps no one represents this cultural shift better than millennial atheist women. While they may sit at the most extreme side of the nonreligious spectrum, atheist women are fueled by the same concerns plaguing millennials in general: a quest for independence and a rejection of the status quo.
The Atheism and Feminism Connection
Lauryn Seering, 27, has never been religious, but she found atheism in high school in reaction to mainstream fundamentalist Christian ideas that condemn her lesbian mother. "Millennial women want autonomy over their own bodies," says Seering, communications coordinator for the Freedom From Religion Foundation, which is dedicated to protecting the separation of church and state.
"They recognize that all the arguments against this autonomy (contraception, birth control, marriage) are religiously fueled," Seering continued. "Women aren't being pressured by society anymore to get married at a young age, have children right away, and tend house while their husbands work."
Lauren Seering, an atheist who works for the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Photo courtesy of Lauren Seering.
Schacter identifies as agnostic. She's based in Kansas City, MO, where she founded a digital marketing agency called Boxer & Mutt. To her, growing secularism is a sign of independent women. "It's becoming more socially acceptable for women to think for themselves and really question why things are the way they are rather than blindly accepting them," she says.
Kayley Whalen, 31, is a queer transgender Latinx woman who identifies as "a humanist and an existentialist and an atheist." These different identities certainly influence how she approaches the world. "We have ethical values without the need for the supernatural," Whalen says. "We believe in social justice, that we can live a life with meaning, purpose, and dedication to social justice without the need for supernatural guidance." Unsurprisingly, Whalen's beliefs are tied up in her activist work: she's the digital strategy and social media manager for the National LGBT Task Force and is on the board of directors for both the Secular Student Alliance and the Trans United Fund.
As Whalen epitomizes, many young women who do not believe in god share a point of view that goes beyond just being atheist or just being a woman. The two are intertwined identities oppressed similarly in the United States.
"We have ethical values without the need for the supernatural."Lee Blackwolf, who runs the popular Facebook page Black Atheists, constantly copes with this intersection. "It's important to me because, as a black bisexual woman, there's not many of us who are atheist," explains Blackwolf, a 29-year-old stay-at-home mother in Twinsburg, OH. "We're not welcomed in most spaces that are atheists. We already have a lot of hurdles to jump through in life so it takes a lot of strength. I lost an entire family because of it. I actually have the luxury to say that I'm better off without them. It's not the same for most."
Blackwolf's concerns hint at societal assumptions about atheist women, which every woman we spoke with touched on: being a woman who isn't religious breaks away from the social norms that frame femininity. Emily Greene, an artist and activist working in promotional marketing in Augusta summed it up best. "You're probably seen as less feminine," the 32-year-old said. "You're definitely judged, looked at more harshly. It's an assumption that it's a negative thing."
Ironically, being atheist can mirror being religious, as it plays a role in many aspects of young life. "That was very important to me in choosing a partner," says Katherine, a 32-year-old HR manager in California. "I have gotten into some debate with friends before where they're like, 'If you're an atheist, why do you care if the other person is of faith?' I'm like, 'You - as, say, a Christian person - would not want to marry a non-Christian person."
Why Are Young Women Interested in Atheism?
Phil Zuckerman, professor of sociology and secular studies at Pitzer College, believes that young people are turning away from religion as a result of how closed-minded and conservative many congregations can be, particularly when they are responsible for enabling xenophobic and queerphobic mindsets. For instance, many churches reject the idea of same-sex marriage, while 71 percent of millennials support it (in comparison with only 46 percent of Baby Boomers).
"A lot of young people are being turned off of by that brand of Christianity," he explains. "They're just seeing religion as an institution and saying, 'Ah, screw it.' Even though that brand of Christianity is not the majority - most Christians are decent, kind people who aren't anti-gay and aren't racist and aren't anti-Islamic. But they don't make the headlines. They're not dominating the news."
Emily Greene, an artist, activist, and atheist. Photo courtesy of Emily Greene.
The internet is also serving as a conduit for less religion. As technology occupies more of our time, says Zuckerman, it chips away at "religion's ability to maintain a monopoly on truth . . . It's really corroding religion's ability to dominate our culture and dominate people's lives."
While there have always been religious skeptics - the farthest back is believed to be the Charvaka movement in 7th century BC - the present shift away from religion is notable because the numbers of religiously unaffiliated and atheists are way up. Although the movement is still predominately male and white, more women are stepping forward as religion reveals itself to be optional in their lives - and sometimes to stand in the way of their independence.
Zuckerman believes this has to do with traditional organized religions' male-centrism: teaching women that they're second class, must remain virginal, and must stay out of leadership positions. Pair this with the amount of women in the workplace rivaling men, and the group doesn't need to turn to a church for social or financial support that churches typically offer.
Being an Atheist Is a Political Act
Molly Hanson grew up in a Catholic household but has always been skeptical of the "invisible man in the sky" who tells people what to do. The 23-year-old Hanson, like many atheists, finds that questioning faith and religion makes people wonder if something is wrong with her womanness.
"If a woman doesn't bow down to this god and lord, she must have an issue with that god or lord," says Hanson, an editorial assistant at the Freedom For Religion Foundation. "She must have been damaged. There's a reason why she decided to leave that god. She might have been morally corrupted by another man or might have - I don't know - been wronged."
This issue isn't confined to religious communities. One woman - a 30-year-old Indian American writer in New York who declined to give her name - finds this flaw in atheist leaders, too.
"The movement itself is really alienating toward women," she says. "Leaders like Richard Dawkins are pretty sexist and condescending and talk down to women. Women have been left out in those major discussions of atheism."
The nonreligious believe that, once the church is taken out of the state, equality can be achieved.Whalen agrees: "It's really difficult that one person like a Richard Dawkins or a Bill Maher can be seen as the face of atheism. The difference between a woman who is an atheist, and a male, cisgender atheist is that a woman doesn't have the choice to be a single issue. She can't say, 'Oh, religious discrimination is the most important thing - and being a woman comes second.'"
For women who are atheists, discrimination is complicated further by the many ways their identities intersect. Gender as it relates to religious affiliation is complex, and it's even more complicated as it relates to black female atheists, as Blackwolf can attest. "A lot of black atheist men are often heard saying, 'Black women sure do love them some church!'" she says. "When we start having a discussion, there are implications about where my place in the community should be, and that's behind the man.'"
Atheist Women Want a Future of Equality
In speaking with young atheist and secular women, some through lines appear, among them a hope for equality that could be stymied by religion's grasp on society. There is a desire to normalize differing points of view, from LGBTQ people to atheists.
Katherine sees public events like the inauguration of President Donald Trump as a perfect example. "I was really struck by so much praying happening," she says. "I'd like to see us move kind of away from that and use logic and science and that holistic definition of freedom."
The nonreligious believe that, once the church is taken out of the state, equality can be achieved. Hansen believes these roadblocks arise as the result of unequal representation. "Women understand what it's like to be oppressed by laws that are rooted in religious ideas that oppress women and their sexuality," she explains. "To get more women in government positions is going to be a challenge, especially right now."
When women hold elected office, it inspires more women to run - and more women in government has a powerful trickle-down effect on women as a whole.
But what if these women leaders were atheists? Would they still succeed?
Surveys have shown that atheism is one of the traits in a leader that Americans are most biased against. "I cannot imagine a president who identifies as an atheist," says the Indian-American writer in New York. "I'm a woman and a person of color: a female person of color who is an atheist could never be the president of the United States. It feels like another barrier."
Others, like Whalen, see these many layers as vital to change: "I want a woman politician to run and say that she's an atheist and that she's for reproductive justice, that she's for transgender rights, and win. I want a transgender woman to be able to do that."
Ultimately, for atheist women (and atheists in general) to succeed at changing society, they need to continue on the path they are on and not settle for being silenced. Zuckerman draws parallels to the LGBT community. "Coming out does have an effect," he says. "More and more people feeling comfortable saying 'I'm not that religious' has an effect." Atheists just want to be seen as starting from the same place as any other decent American.
Greene sums it up nicely: "We want to get up, go to work, and enjoy our friends and families and our lifestyles just the same way as the person who gets up on Sunday and goes to church. We have our own ways of self-care. A lot of people find religion and that's how they take care of themselves - and that's great. We just do things a different way and that's OK."
The 16 Stages of Dating After Divorce
The best part about being divorced after a short marriage is being single again at 35. Seriously. When my marriage ended after just two years, the idea of navigating the dating world all over again seemed daunting, unappealing, and pointless. Plus, the last time I'd been seriously single, it was 2006; texting was barely a given, much less Tinder.
But, I figured, if Robin Wright can snag a hot younger boyfriend after 15 years of marriage and a very public divorce, I could at least give dating a shot. To my pleasant surprise, my 30-something jadedness confidence combined with the dawn of casual online dating culture made for one damn fun year and a half. Turned out, dating as a divorced 35-year-old was a great way to pass the time until I felt ready for a relationship again. Behold the 16 stages of my journey, illustrated with GIFs featuring sassy women.
Source: Corbis Images
Yes, You Can Become Debt-Free Even on 1 Income
It was a crazy thought - paying off and cutting up every single one of my credit cards. It was an even crazier thought that one day we may not owe anyone a single dime.
I kept thinking to myself, "It'll never happen" and "I'm a stay-at-home mom with another baby on the way and my husband is a contractor, we can't make this work." But little by little, we did.
We killed off over $55,000 of debt in just two years all while living on one income and growing our family of five. It was anything but easy, but it was the best decision we ever made - to become debt-free.
Our family members looked at us like we had lost our minds when we told them we no longer had a credit card for "emergencies" and when we got rid of our fully loaded Mac Daddy Tahoe for a well-loved, paid-for Sequoia with leather interior being the only bells and whistles it has.
My friends thought I was insane when I started walking dogs for extra money to pay off our debt even faster. "Uh, you're hugely pregnant and you're walking dogs in this heat?! Y'all must really need the money."
And the truth is, we did need the money. We needed every penny because we had a crazy plan of paying off all our debt. And this year, we are going to finish that plan and pay off our house.
By now, our friends and family don't think we're crazy anymore because they've seen firsthand the blessing that becoming free from the hold of debt has been to our family. My husband was able to quit a job that he no longer loved in favor of starting his own business again and being home more with our three children. We've been able to give like never before without fear that we won't have enough money left to pay the bills. We've been able to send our two oldest children to a private preschool, and we've been able to go on several vacations. All without using credit cards and all while paying off debt.
It hasn't been easy, but then again, nothing worthwhile ever is. If you want to join my family in the crazy and pay off debt, here's how you get started:
1. Stop Using It
In order to completely become debt-free, you have to make a commitment to stop using debt - of any kind. That means no more credit cards, no more taking out loans of any kind, and no more borrowing money from a relative.
It'll be scary at first, like real scary. You'll feel a little panic like you won't know what to do if this or that happens, which is why you must do step two . . .
2. Start Saving
Trust me when I tell you this - once you make the declaration to become debt-free, all of a sudden all these worries and panic will hit you. You'll start worrying how you'll pay to fix the car when it breaks down or how you'll pay your insurance deductible if an emergency happens. This is why you must absolutely start building up an emergency fund.
Start with your starting point - talk to your spouse about how much you want to save first. It could be as little as $500 and as high as $5,000. The point with the starting point is to pick a number that works well for your family but is not overwhelming.
A great emergency fund will end up having six months of your living expenses saved in it. Which for most folks, if you tallied up how much money it takes you to live every month, then multiply that number by six, it's probably at least $20,000 if not more.
The truth is that if you tried to make $20,000 your starting point instead of, say, $1,000, you'd end up overwhelmed and feeling defeated when you struggled to save up that amount. Don't do that to yourself. Pick a starting point that you can realistically save in the next month to three months.
Then once you've reached your starting point, pick another point and work your way up to your six-month emergency fund goal.
3. Pick Your Method
There are a lot of arguments in the personal finance community of which debt payoff method is better - the debt avalanche method or the debt snowball method. For me personally, I love the debt snowball method (and it's the one we used) because it helps you build up momentum and keeps you from feeling frustrated by little visible progress.
But obviously, you should pick the method that best works for you and your family. In case you're not familiar with these methods, here's how they work:
- Debt Snowball Method: In this method, you pay off the lowest balance debt first and then "snowball" up from there to the next lowest balance debt.
- Debt Avalanche Method: In this method, you pay off the debt with the highest interest rate and then "avalanche" from there down to the next highest interest rate debt.
4. Which Debt to Start With?
Once you've decided on the method you're going to use, you'll then pick which debt you're going to start paying off. In order to pay off this debt, you're going to have to throw every extra penny that you have at it.
5. Stick to It
This is the hard part of killing off the debt monster. You have to stay committed and focused to paying off your debt. Even when there are setbacks (and there will be setbacks!), you must keep going. The debts aren't going to pay off themselves.
Always remember to give yourself grace when you hit a stumbling block, but don't be afraid to get back up and back to work. Write down what your life will look like once you're debt-free, and keep that as inspiration for those tough days to help keep you motivated.
Stylish Gifts to Spoil Your Mom With on Mother's Day
When shopping for Mother's Day, we like to think realistically. Our moms might be stylish, but they probably value functional pieces rather than trendy It items. We want to buy them something they'll appreciate, then use forever, like a delicate wear-with-everything necklace or a fabulous floral tea kettle to coordinate with that new salad plate. Keeping the season in mind - perhaps your mom has a tropical vacation coming up? - we gathered a handful of beachside essentials along with seasonless must-have items that double as prized possessions. Ahead, see 48 standout picks for that very important holiday in May.
13 Reasons Why: What We Already Know About Season 2's Plot
Netflix has officially renewed 13 Reasons Why for a second season, and what little information we have about the new episodes has already disproved most of our theories about how it will go forward. We thought perhaps season two could take place at another school, or maybe it would revolve around Alex's perspective, but it sounds like the new episodes will simply pick up where season one leaves off. According to Netflix, season two will begin "in the aftermath of Hannah Baker's death and the start of the characters' complicated journeys toward healing and recovery." Executive producer Selena Gomez also posted a teaser with the caption, "Their story isn't over."
Before the renewal news was confirmed, creator Brian Yorkey told The Hollywood Reporter, "Hannah's story is still very much not finished. She's an integral part of whatever the next chapter of the story is, and she's very much still at the center of it."
Stay tuned for more season two news!
Moonlight Winning MTV's Best Kiss Award Is a Huge Leap Forward
Moonlight's Ashton Sanders and Jharrel Jerome won the MTV Movie & TV Award for best kiss on Sunday night. While they aren't the first same-sex pair to earn the golden popcorn - Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger won for Brokeback Mountain in 2006 - their win is still important, and the internet at large is in full celebration mode. The pair beat out Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling in La La Land, Emma Watson and Dan Stevens in Beauty and the Beast, Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard in Empire, and Zac Efron and Anna Kendrick in Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates.
While Moonlight racked up awards at the Oscars (ugh, that best picture flub), Sanders and Jerome didn't really get to speak up. After all, Moonlight was an ensemble film. If you didn't catch the speech, it's a great moment for the young stars to finally speak to a large audience about the importance of black actors playing characters who are "out of the box."
It's wonderful to see the outpouring of support from viewers, especially after a show that included so many moments celebrating diversity. (Emma Watson's groundbreaking speech is also a must see.)
Moonlight won Best Kiss!
Moonlight won Best Kiss!
Moonlight won Best Kiss!
TWO GAY POC WON BEST KISS!#MTVAwards- Marshal Knight (@Marshal_Knight) May 8, 2017
@Ceilidhann @FemaleCritics Moonlight winning best kiss is important for all types of reasons
- Amanda In Wonderland (@princessgleek) May 8, 2017
Okay, MTV gets a lot of flack (and sometimes deservedly so) but this is SO SO SO RIGHT. Bravo. #MTVAwards https://t.co/A0klBudK2E
- Christina Izzo (@christinalizzo) May 8, 2017
You go, boys.
Stylish Gifts to Spoil Your Mom With on Mother's Day
When shopping for Mother's Day, we like to think realistically. Our moms might be stylish, but they probably value functional pieces rather than trendy It items. We want to buy them something they'll appreciate, then use forever, like a delicate wear-with-everything necklace or a fabulous floral tea kettle to coordinate with that new salad plate. Keeping the season in mind - perhaps your mom has a tropical vacation coming up? - we gathered a handful of beachside essentials along with seasonless must-have items that double as prized possessions. Ahead, see 48 standout picks for that very important holiday in May.
Moonlight Winning MTV's Best Kiss Award Is a Huge Leap Forward
Moonlight's Ashton Sanders and Jharrel Jerome won the MTV Movie & TV Award for best kiss on Sunday night. While they aren't the first same-sex pair to earn the golden popcorn - Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger won for Brokeback Mountain in 2006 - their win is still important, and the internet at large is in full celebration mode. The pair beat out Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling in La La Land, Emma Watson and Dan Stevens in Beauty and the Beast, Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard in Empire, and Zac Efron and Anna Kendrick in Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates.
While Moonlight racked up awards at the Oscars (ugh, that best picture flub), Sanders and Jerome didn't really get to speak up. After all, Moonlight was an ensemble film. If you didn't catch the speech, it's a great moment for the young stars to finally speak to a large audience about the importance of black actors playing characters who are "out of the box."
It's wonderful to see the outpouring of support from viewers, especially after a show that included so many moments celebrating diversity. (Emma Watson's groundbreaking speech is also a must see.)
Moonlight won Best Kiss!
Moonlight won Best Kiss!
Moonlight won Best Kiss!
TWO GAY POC WON BEST KISS!#MTVAwards- Marshal Knight (@Marshal_Knight) May 8, 2017
@Ceilidhann @FemaleCritics Moonlight winning best kiss is important for all types of reasons
- Amanda In Wonderland (@princessgleek) May 8, 2017
Okay, MTV gets a lot of flack (and sometimes deservedly so) but this is SO SO SO RIGHT. Bravo. #MTVAwards https://t.co/A0klBudK2E
- Christina Izzo (@christinalizzo) May 8, 2017
You go, boys.
The MTV Awards Red Carpet Was Packed With Style
Though we doubt the Met Gala left you pining for celebrity looks, just one week later, movie and TV stars gathered to celebrate their latest projects. The stars lined up in everything from one-shouldered jumpsuits to sheer, flirty dresses. The looks were definitely a mixed bag when it came down to it, but tracking every glamorous arrival will be well worth your time. Scroll to see what we mean, then zoom in on the most impressive beauty looks of the evening.
World Class Hypocrite Jason Chaffetz Wants to Rescind Obama's Pension Over Speaking Fees
When a president leaves office, it's pretty standard practice that they get paid to give speeches. Whether they donate the money or keep it depends on the president: while President Jimmy Carter rarely accepted compensation for speaking engagements, President Barack Obama recently made headlines for accepting a $400,000 fee to address Cantor Fitzgerald, a Wall Street institution he once criticized.
Ex-presidents also get paid a pension by the federal government, which varies depending on the president's postoffice income. Now, Chairman of the House Oversight Committee Jason Chaffetz has decided to use Obama's Cantor Fitzgerald gig as a reason to go after his presidential pension. Chaffetz decided to chime in on a USA Today editorial, which argued that Obama's speaking fees might incite Congress to target his pension. "Yes, it will," Chaffetz wrote in a tweet sharing the article on May 3.
Obama's $400,000 speech could prompt Congress to go after his pension https://t.co/h17muKPMmE via @USATODAY Yes, it will
- Jason Chaffetz (@jasoninthehouse) May 4, 2017
Here's the problem with Chaffetz's moral outrage: presidents from both sides of the aisle have long amassed mini fortunes from private speaking gigs. Politico reported that George W. Bush has been paid between $100,000 and $175,000 per speech for the roughly 200 speeches he's given since leaving office in 2009. Former president Ronald Reagan was famously paid $2 million to visit Japan and open a trade dialogue with the country less than a year after leaving office.
Hillary Clinton's speaking fees, which were of much debate during the primaries, exceed W.'s: from 2001 until May 2016, Clinton gave 729 speeches and made roughly $210,795 for each. Collectively, former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton raked in a whopping $153 million in speeches between 2001 and when Clinton announced her candidacy for president.
This is not the first time Chaffetz has attempted to limit former presidents' pensions to $200,000. A bill that would restrict presidential pensions to $200,000 if their income exceeded $400,000 reached President Obama's office in July of 2016, but he vetoed the proposed law. With this in mind, it's hard not to see Chaffetz's commitment to going after Obama's pension as a ploy to bash a political foe.
We'll Probably End Up Buying Everything From Alexa Chung's Clothing Line
Our day just got a lot brighter, thanks to the prospect of Alexa Chung's new fashion line. The style star, who's flexed her style muscles collaborating with the likes of AG Jeans and Madewell and consulting for brands like Superga, is launching her own collection. The lineup will include denim, daywear, eveningwear, shoes, jewelry, and "daily permanents," which Alexa describes as "little luxuries" that will be priced at the high contemporary range.
Alexa has already enlisted Edwin Bodson, previously head of atelier at Haider Ackermann, as the brand's managing director, as well as a multidisciplinary design team. In addition, she launched her own website and Instagram. Alexa said in a statement:
"I have been fortunate enough to have found a wonderful team from various corners of the fashion industry and beyond to help realize my vision and make this lifelong dream a reality. We hope to bring you wearable, cool clothing you can live in and love in, whilst exploring the sartorial relationship between masculinity and femininity, something that has been a cornerstone of my personal style since I was old enough to dress myself."
Now we're setting our sights on May 30, when the collection launches, and currently creating a wish list of the pieces we hope to see when it debuts. With a history of trendsetting and a personal style that's attracted legions of fans, we're hoping her eponymous line will take us one step closer to nailing her distinctly nonchalant preppy-meets-ladylike look, complete with printed blouses, live-in denim, and quirky flats.
We'll Probably End Up Buying Everything From Alexa Chung's Clothing Line
Our day just got a lot brighter, thanks to the prospect of Alexa Chung's new fashion line. The style star, who's flexed her style muscles collaborating with the likes of AG Jeans and Madewell and consulting for brands like Superga, is launching her own collection. The lineup will include denim, daywear, eveningwear, shoes, jewelry, and "daily permanents," which Alexa describes as "little luxuries" that will be priced at the high contemporary range.
Alexa has already enlisted Edwin Bodson, previously head of atelier at Haider Ackermann, as the brand's managing director, as well as a multidisciplinary design team. In addition, she launched her own website and Instagram. Alexa said in a statement:
"I have been fortunate enough to have found a wonderful team from various corners of the fashion industry and beyond to help realize my vision and make this lifelong dream a reality. We hope to bring you wearable, cool clothing you can live in and love in, whilst exploring the sartorial relationship between masculinity and femininity, something that has been a cornerstone of my personal style since I was old enough to dress myself."
Now we're setting our sights on May 30, when the collection launches, and currently creating a wish list of the pieces we hope to see when it debuts. With a history of trendsetting and a personal style that's attracted legions of fans, we're hoping her eponymous line will take us one step closer to nailing her distinctly nonchalant preppy-meets-ladylike look, complete with printed blouses, live-in denim, and quirky flats.
Is Copper the Eye Shadow Color of the Summer? This Trendy Palette Suggests So
Natasha Denona worked as a makeup artist at both the editorial and celebrity level for over a decade before launching her own eponymous makeup line - so you know her stuff is legit. Though she's known for her extensive eye shadow palettes, you might also recognize her popular Face Glow Cream Shimmer, which has a coveted five-star rating on Sephora. Now, Natasha is launching a gorgeous, summery palette that's been met with much excitement.
The Sunset Eyeshadow Palette consists of 15 different shades that range from copper, warm brown, burnt orange, and more. The shadows also vary in in their finishes, with some of them being matte and others having a glittery metallic finish.
Now, this palette is definitely a splurge. At $129, it is pricier than other eye shadow palettes. The quality and range of shades, however, do make it a worthwhile investment if you're looking to find that one product to transform your makeup collection this Summer. Ahead, scope out the product before its official launch on May 12.
Is Copper the Eye Shadow Color of the Summer? This Trendy Palette Suggests So
Natasha Denona worked as a makeup artist at both the editorial and celebrity level for over a decade before launching her own eponymous makeup line - so you know her stuff is legit. Though she's known for her extensive eye shadow palettes, you might also recognize her popular Face Glow Cream Shimmer, which has a coveted five-star rating on Sephora. Now, Natasha is launching a gorgeous, summery palette that's been met with much excitement.
The Sunset Eyeshadow Palette consists of 15 different shades that range from copper, warm brown, burnt orange, and more. The shadows also vary in in their finishes, with some of them being matte and others having a glittery metallic finish.
Now, this palette is definitely a splurge. At $129, it is pricier than other eye shadow palettes. The quality and range of shades, however, do make it a worthwhile investment if you're looking to find that one product to transform your makeup collection this Summer. Ahead, scope out the product before its official launch on May 12.
How 1 Mom's "Obsession" to Exclusively Breastfeed Almost Killed Her Baby
Breast is best . . . until your baby nearly starves to death.
That's the message one mom sent with a candid Reddit post about her struggles with breastfeeding her newborn son, now 15 weeks old.
"I have put literal blood, sweat, and tears into breastfeeding with low supply," she wrote. "Only I didn't realize I had low supply. My kid would have died without formula, it was that bad. He was in the [hospital's Special Care Baby Unit] until almost 2 weeks old due to accidental starvation because I had no idea my baby was starving."
The first-time parent explains how no one stepped in to intervene, not even nurses who could have easily detected the early warning signs.
"The nurses would come in and ask me if he was having wet diapers and I'd rub my finger in it and think 'that kinda feels almost wet?'" she wrote. "It wasn't until he was admitted to the SCBU and we started supplementing formula that I realized what a real wet diaper looked and felt like. And I cried and cried and cried because I realized how hungry my poor baby had been since he was born."
Even her supposed friend came down hard on her for questioning breastfeeding.
"My baby was nursing almost every second of every hour of every day until he fell asleep too exhausted to nurse anymore. I didn't think this was normal, I was stressed and harassed by my lactivist 'friend' who told me this was normal for a breastfed baby and I needed to tough it out. Well, that shit nearly killed my baby. I heard the usual chime of 'cluster feeding' again and again. . . . I was made by my friend to feel like I just wanted an excuse to use formula and that I just couldn't handle what real breastfeeding mums go through."
Mom's Message About Her Baby's Death: "If I Had Given Him Just 1 Bottle, He'd Still Be Alive"
When she finally introduced formula, doctors encouraged her to maintain a strict regimen of breastfeeding attempts followed by formula and around-the-clock pumping. They'd say the same pseudo-encouraging things like "the baby can remove more milk from the breast than a pump can" and how it's all about "supply and demand!"
But she knew it wasn't helping.
Despite these red flags, the nurses encouraged me to try to exclusively breastfeed my baby again. And I agreed because I presumed it must be safe because they said to do it. His latch was incredibly painful. He had a slight tongue tie that was deemed non restrictive yet was remedied anyway and made no difference to his feeding. My nipples bled, baby screamed constantly and I was told it was normal. I still pumped around the clock to "encourage my milk supply." Yup. Worst mother ever over here. I still didn't realize then that my baby and I were let down by people who should have realized there was a low-supply issue going on.
Eventually I stopped pumping. I was done wasting my hours hooked up to a pump watching other people cuddle and parent my baby while I was tangled up in pumps and tubes and bottles for 5 ounces per day. I had accepted not defeat, but that I was making myself unwell with the stress and lack of sleep and for what? Baby was happy with formula. Baby was healthy with formula!
Now he's 15 weeks old and every single one of his feeds is formula, because that's what he needs to survive and my body just can't give him what he needs to thrive. But we still nurse all throughout the day! It's wonderful. We enjoy our booby cuddles and when he cries it soothes him and he drifts off to sleep. He's not getting ANY milk beyond a dribble now. I wish I'd done better by my son by giving him formula feeds sooner instead of letting him suffer and go hungry for MY obsession to have him exclusively breastfeed.
This mom is still proud of their breastfeeding relationship, and that they continued to "dry nurse" safely, even when it's not about ounces anymore. And her son, who had been readmitted to the hospital for dropping 11-percent of birth weight in those first weeks, is faring much better these days. "HE IS HUMUNGOUS. He's 94th percentile!"
It's OK to Stare at Queen Letizia's Summer Dress - It's Damn Gorgeous
Queen Letizia is at it once again. The Spanish royal made it clear she's ready to show off her Summer wardrobe by wearing a gorgeous, short-sleeved, green floral dress during an official reception in Madrid in honor of Costa Rica's president's visit.
While the dress comes from Carolina Herrera's Pre-Fall 2015 collection and is no longer available, it couldn't be more fitting for the season. The bright shade is balanced by the dark purple florals and even inspired King Felipe VI, who matched his tie to the queen's look. Scroll ahead to check out more photos of Letizia's dress and find a few links to shop your very own green floral number.
11 DIY Beauty Remedies Your Grandma Always Talked About That Actually Work
Every abuela has one: that wild concoction she whips up from ingredients in her kitchen and swears by every time you have a pimple, dry skin, unruly hair - you name it. As kids, most of us rolled our eyes and went along with it, but we've done a little digging, and it turns out maybe Grandma wasn't so crazy after all. Many of those beauty recipes actually work! Warning: do try these 11 practices at home for smooth skin and silky hair - or get these beauty buys that are also grandma-approved.
1. Using mayonnaise as a deep conditioner for healthy hair.
According to hairstylist Nathaniel Hawkins, this old-school method works because of the fat to protein ratio. "The oil softens the hair, making it shinier - and the protein in the eggs will make strands stronger." He recommends applying the treatment to dry hair, and leaving it on as a mask for 15-20 minutes. Shampoo twice, and condition afterwards. But, Hawkins notes, this treatment works best for hair that isn't fine or limp.
2. Dabbing nails in olive oil for a healthier look.
Nail expert Stephanie Stone debunked the myth (common in Dominican culture) that rubbing garlic on nails will make them strong (according to studies, it has no benefit). But, she says, applying olive oil (a popular DIY beauty ingredient in Puerto Rico) on nails and cuticles throughout the day is a great way to improve their health. "Keeping your hands and nails moisturized is key, especially if you're trying to repair damaged nail beds. I'd also recommend applying it lightly throughout the day instead of a full on soak. But consistency is key!"
3. Coconut oil as a body moisturizer.
"This one 100% works," says dermatologist (and Sofia Vergara's derm!) Dendy Engelman, M.D., of coconut oil for soft skin, a popular technique in many Latin American countries. "Coconut oil is mostly made up of saturated fats and medium-chain fatty acids, which help repair the skin barrier, trap water to hydrate skin, and also reduce inflammation. And recent studies show it's also a great treatment for eczema."
4. Adding honey to hair conditioner for softer tresses.
A custom common in Caribbean Latin America, honey is a natural moisturizer, which Hawkins says does work to help rehydrate your locks. And using unprocessed honey will give you an extra bonus: it's full of enzymes that will help create a healthy scalp and prevent dandruff.
5. Agua maravilla to fight blemishes.
Also known as witch hazel, this is common in many Latino families, especially from Puerto Rican and Dominican backgrounds. Engelman says it works because the mixture contains anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antibacterial properties. Engelman also recommends Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel Refreshingly Clean Towelettes ($6) to control blemishes and calm bug bites.
6. Washing hair with Coca-Cola for shine.
This is a long-time favorite technique among not just Latino families, but celebrities like Suki Waterhouse. Hairstylist Nunzio Saviano gives this traditional trick the thumbs up: "The acidity closes the hair cuticle, which makes it look healthy and shiny. But be careful: the sugar can leave your hair sticky, so you might need to rinse it out quickly. Apple cider vinegar is an alternative that might not be as messy!"
7. Beach sand as a skin exfoliant.
"Sand is essentially finely granulated rocks, so it's perfect to remove excess dry skin cells," Engelman says. "But because it's so abrasive, I'd only recommend you use it to exfoliate feet. It might be too harsh for other parts of your body."
8. Manzanilla grisi shampoo to lighten hair.
Saviano says that this traditionally Mexican and South American product - which contains Flor de Manzanilla and claims to both wash and lighten hair - does work, but he would use it sparingly. "This will maintain your tone and even lighten it at times, but if you use it too much, your color might become dull or even fade."
9. Grape skin paste for glowing skin.
Grapes are a gold mine, says Engelman. "They'll have a brightening effect over time because they contain vitamins B6, C, and A, and minerals like potassium, magnesium, selenium, and flavonoids, which act as antioxidants and remove toxins from the skin."
10. Sugar and lemon juice as an antiaging exfoliant.
According to Engelman, the sugar crystals act as an exfoliator, sloughing away dead skin, while the lemon juice helps peel away dead skin cells because of their content of alpha hydroxy acid (which is found in many antiaging treatments). Exfoliating is important, Engelman says, "because as we age, our skin doesn't shed as effectively. Plus, getting rid of dead cells helps your moisturizers penetrate better."
11. Avocado for healthy cuticles.
"Actually, rubbing avocado oil on cuticles is more effective than actual avocado," says Stone. But good news for avocado lovers: "Avocados in a healthy, balanced diet will help you see overall improvement in your hair, skin, and nails, too." Bring on the guacamole!
See the Faces of Huda Kattan, Manny MUA, and Jeffree Star Drawn as Swatch Art
When we learned that these incredibly realistic portraits of beauty bloggers were created entirely out of makeup, we had to pick our jaw up off the floor. Known as Lanaartisry on her social media channels, Lana is a self-taught makeup artist from Australia who is amazing makeup mavens everywhere with her artistic talent.
Lana uses a base of concealer to start her impressive portraits, which she paints on her arm. She then adds shading with pencil and a variety of colored cosmetics to fill in eye and hair color, as well as applying makeup to the drawn blogger's face. The results are eerily realistic, and Lana even has been reposted by a few if the bloggers she's drawn.
Although Lana has only recently started her blogger portrait series, they're amazing to look at and we hope she continues making these beautiful pieces of artwork for us to admire.
1 Transgender Woman Explains Why She Feels Like a Superhero
When I was younger, I lived vicariously through the superheroes and heroines who appeared on TV screens or in comic books. Wonder Woman, Superman, Spider Man, the Power Rangers, you name them. I remember fantasizing over what it would be like to have supernatural powers and superhuman strength. No matter how dangerous situations became, there was never a threat big enough to deter these heroic figures from doing the right thing at all costs. As if their courage wasn't enough, they always held a certain je ne sais quoi I deeply admired.
However, despite their incredible abilities, they hid who they truly were and instead assumed the identities of ordinary people. I always wondered if they would trade in their gifts if given the opportunity. One thing every hero and heroine had in common is that none of them ever chose the life. It was their destiny. Who would have known that, years later, as a transgender woman of color, I would become a heroine for revealing my true identity and standing my ground in spaces that didn't readily welcome me. What I do requires hero-like courage: to hold space in a society that oppresses women, people of color, gays, and lesbians and threatens to erase anyone who falls outside of a cisgender-heteronormative identity.
Imagine what it would be like if our favorite superheroes revealed their true identities to the world. Not only would they become more vulnerable to the villains who plot their demise, but they'd also have to deal with criticism and judgment from the very citizens they vowed to protect. As a trans woman of color, my very existence is revolutionary and disruptive to traditional societal norms, but I'm willing to challenge those norms if it means creating safe spaces for others to live authentically and without fear.
Despite the frightening times we live in, it's important that transgender people not allow ourselves to be bullied into rejecting our true identities. Regardless of the backlash, rejection, and fear-mongering we're subjected to, we must remain visible to the world free of disguise. This sends the message that we will not tolerate villainy in any form or fashion, nor will we be hindered from taking paths that lead to our true life's purpose. Our heroism comes from our willingness to hold space, without approval or permission. We must continue to stand in the face of adversity and tackle all obstacles that come our way.
It's important that transgender people not allow ourselves to be bullied into rejecting our true identities.Transgender women of color were on the front lines of Stonewall and led the movement toward LGBTQ liberation and equality. When the AIDS epidemic devastated the gay community in the '80s, it was lesbian women who rolled up their sleeves and came to the rescue. But even in cities like West Hollywood, which has a large gay population and is celebrated for its progressive culture, trans women of color still suffer a great deal of lateral oppression at the hands of some of our privileged white cisgender gay brothers.
Recently I had a reservation at Catch LA, an upscale restaurant in West Hollywood that boasts of its celebrity regulars. From the time I walked into the door until the time I left, I was exposed to transphobia, racist microaggressions, and humiliation and was treated so poorly I went home in tears. Everything that transpired that evening continued to replay in my mind on repeat. The attendant at the front door wouldn't honor my gender identity and correct pronouns. I was rejected despite my reservation. I was taken aside and monitored by security as if my presence was criminal. The worse part is that once I was seated, I was shown the discounted section of the menu and "sister-girled" - that is, spoken to with unnatural stereotypical slang that African-American women are supposed to better respond to. Convinced things couldn't become worse, the manager gaslighted me and dismissed me in front of other patrons, reinforcing society's beliefs that trans people don't matter. The most devastating part of this experience was that although this took place in a heterocentric restaurant, the employees who treated me so savagely were gay men.
Sadly, this doesn't come as a surprise to me. For gay men who struggle with internalized homophobia, being accepted into heterocentric spaces feels rewarding. However, when trans women or non-binary queer people who are more expressive in their identities enter those spaces, we somehow pose a threat to that acceptance. These individuals fear that our identities will reinforce the stereotypes and criticism they've endured in their lives. They project those fears onto us through subconscious lateral oppression.
This is problematic because the LGBTQ community at large cannot demand that society treats us with dignity and respect if we lack the capacity to extend the same respect to members of our very own community.
The most devastating part of this experience was that the employees who treated me so savagely were gay men.I wanted to write this piece for two reasons: to let trans, queer people, and people of color know that they aren't alone in the injustices they face and to reinforce that we deserve better. My intention is to encourage others to speak up so that our collective voices can amplify that message. Let this piece serve as a call to action for marginalized communities to unify and mobilize so that we're able to withstand everything coming our way in this social and political climate. It is all of us or none of us. The entire community and our allies must tap into our superhuman powers and push for change the best way we know how.
One of the most powerful ways to push for change is to be intentional about where we spend our money and what businesses we support. Without me having to name them, I'm sure you can think of at least three corporations that were recently boycotted because of their anti-LGBTQ, misogynistic, or racist views. Those boycotts were powerful and heavily impactful. When we withhold our resources from unethical business and companies, we send the message that we will be heard, and if we are not treated with the dignity and respect we deserve, we will not continue to place value in companies that don't see the value in us as people. A brand doesn't make us; we make the brand.
What corporations know that some of you may not is that LGBTQ people in the United States alone contributed $917 billion toward our economy in 2016, according to Bloomberg. We also spent a whopping $75 billion on tourism and travel. Protests, marches, and rallies are great, but we are also learning that there is power in our purchases. We need to hold to the fire the restaurants, businesses, and corporations that refuse to value our existence and to withhold our purchasing power to remind them how much we contribute to this country. I called out Catch LA on every review site and platform I could, and it touched my heart to see so many of our allies and other community members share the information and take a stand with me. By calling them out, it prevents them from benefiting from spending power that should go toward businesses that foster diverse and inclusive spaces. Change doesn't always welcome us through the front door. It's up to us to go through the back door, the chimney, the windows, and the basement to gain entry. We have the power to affect change. We are a powerful people. Now is the time to tap into that superpower.
Ashlee Marie Preston is a diversity speaker, media advocate, and transgender activist.
How 1 Mom's "Obsession" to Exclusively Breastfeed Almost Killed Her Baby
Breast is best . . . until your baby nearly starves to death.
That's the message one mom sent with a candid Reddit post about her struggles with breastfeeding her newborn son, now 15 weeks old.
"I have put literal blood, sweat, and tears into breastfeeding with low supply," she wrote. "Only I didn't realize I had low supply. My kid would have died without formula, it was that bad. He was in the [hospital's Special Care Baby Unit] until almost 2 weeks old due to accidental starvation because I had no idea my baby was starving."
The first-time parent explains how no one stepped in to intervene, not even nurses who could have easily detected the early warning signs.
"The nurses would come in and ask me if he was having wet diapers and I'd rub my finger in it and think 'that kinda feels almost wet?'" she wrote. "It wasn't until he was admitted to the SCBU and we started supplementing formula that I realized what a real wet diaper looked and felt like. And I cried and cried and cried because I realized how hungry my poor baby had been since he was born."
Even her supposed friend came down hard on her for questioning breastfeeding.
"My baby was nursing almost every second of every hour of every day until he fell asleep too exhausted to nurse anymore. I didn't think this was normal, I was stressed and harassed by my lactivist 'friend' who told me this was normal for a breastfed baby and I needed to tough it out. Well, that shit nearly killed my baby. I heard the usual chime of 'cluster feeding' again and again. . . . I was made by my friend to feel like I just wanted an excuse to use formula and that I just couldn't handle what real breastfeeding mums go through."
Mom's Message About Her Baby's Death: "If I Had Given Him Just 1 Bottle, He'd Still Be Alive"
When she finally introduced formula, doctors encouraged her to maintain a strict regimen of breastfeeding attempts followed by formula and around-the-clock pumping. They'd say the same pseudo-encouraging things like "the baby can remove more milk from the breast than a pump can" and how it's all about "supply and demand!"
But she knew it wasn't helping.
Despite these red flags, the nurses encouraged me to try to exclusively breastfeed my baby again. And I agreed because I presumed it must be safe because they said to do it. His latch was incredibly painful. He had a slight tongue tie that was deemed non restrictive yet was remedied anyway and made no difference to his feeding. My nipples bled, baby screamed constantly and I was told it was normal. I still pumped around the clock to "encourage my milk supply." Yup. Worst mother ever over here. I still didn't realize then that my baby and I were let down by people who should have realized there was a low-supply issue going on.
Eventually I stopped pumping. I was done wasting my hours hooked up to a pump watching other people cuddle and parent my baby while I was tangled up in pumps and tubes and bottles for 5 ounces per day. I had accepted not defeat, but that I was making myself unwell with the stress and lack of sleep and for what? Baby was happy with formula. Baby was healthy with formula!
Now he's 15 weeks old and every single one of his feeds is formula, because that's what he needs to survive and my body just can't give him what he needs to thrive. But we still nurse all throughout the day! It's wonderful. We enjoy our booby cuddles and when he cries it soothes him and he drifts off to sleep. He's not getting ANY milk beyond a dribble now. I wish I'd done better by my son by giving him formula feeds sooner instead of letting him suffer and go hungry for MY obsession to have him exclusively breastfeed.
This mom is still proud of their breastfeeding relationship, and that they continued to "dry nurse" safely, even when it's not about ounces anymore. And her son, who had been readmitted to the hospital for dropping 11-percent of birth weight in those first weeks, is faring much better these days. "HE IS HUMUNGOUS. He's 94th percentile!"
It's OK to Stare at Queen Letizia's Summer Dress - It's Damn Gorgeous
Queen Letizia is at it once again. The Spanish royal made it clear she's ready to show off her Summer wardrobe by wearing a gorgeous, short-sleeved, green floral dress during an official reception in Madrid in honor of Costa Rica's president's visit.
While the dress comes from Carolina Herrera's Pre-Fall 2015 collection and is no longer available, it couldn't be more fitting for the season. The bright shade is balanced by the dark purple florals and even inspired King Felipe VI, who matched his tie to the queen's look. Scroll ahead to check out more photos of Letizia's dress and find a few links to shop your very own green floral number.