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.
mercredi 10 janvier 2018
This New Mom Is Applying to Jobs With Her Baby - Here's Why Companies Should Take Her Seriously
On a typical weekday, Meesha Chang is doing what countless other New Yorkers in between jobs do: endlessly perusing LinkedIn and other sites for open positions, her laptop like an inanimate appendage. Her last job, a highly coveted creative consultant position within the cultural department of a tech giant, is almost certain to attract the attention of most hiring managers. However, there is one significant detail in her application that she knows could repel some potential employers: her 5-month-old baby, Lucia.
Lucia is Chang's daughter with her fiancé, John. Round-cheeked and wide-eyed, the infant is a pleasure at home - but what about in the next cubicle over?
For the past two months, Chang has been applying to any and every position that matches her vast qualifications, but unlike her competition, she's applying with Lucia in tow. Her ideal plan is to bring her infant daughter with her to her new office every day. "I'm being very transparent about my situation," she explains. "Lucia's name has equal billing on my résumé." She even lists her daughter's qualifications - "quiet, observant nature and positive attitude" - on her résumé and in her cover letter in hopes that companies will see Lucia as not just a caveat, but an asset. She's even brought Lucia along to interviews, once in person and once over Skype, with the newborn cooing in the background. The hiring managers greeted Lucia awkwardly, unsure of what to make of the mother-daughter duo, Chang recalls.
This may seem like a pretty unconventional, maybe even bizarre, strategy for job hunting, but in Chang's view, there's no viable alternative. She prioritizes her career and motherhood equally, and she doesn't feel it's fair to have to choose between the two. "One of the most challenging things about becoming a mom for me is figuring out what kind of mom I am and can be to my child," Chang says. "I always thought I would be the kind of mom to get straight back to work. Having a child now has changed everything." For her, that means bringing her baby to work, which, to her, is not such an outlandish request.
Chang is fully aware that she is fortunate to work in a field that could accommodate babies at work and senior enough in her career that she feels comfortable making certain demands of potential employers. And she is more than grateful to have John, who helps with both baby and financial duties, while she job hunts. "I know not everyone is in this position," she acknowledges.
"We are told over and over that women can't have it all, can't be present parents and have a great career. This is not because it's impossible; it's because we don't have systems in place to provide that life."
There are parents who don't have the luxury of requesting such policies and who have to shoulder all responsibilities alone, but Chang hopes that her advocacy for babies-at-work programs will be the first step in shifting the standard in favor of more parent-friendly policies in general.
"Part of why I am pushing for companies to accommodate babies at work is so that more parents have choices in the future," she says. "We are told over and over that women can't have it all, can't be present parents and have a great career. This is not because it's impossible; it's because we don't have systems in place to provide that life."
What ends up happening, Chang points out, is women leave the workforce to care for their newborns and oftentimes don't come back for years or even decades (she refers to Lori Hill, a software developer who took a break from her career to raise her kids and reentered the workforce after 22 years). This contributes to what many experts refer to as a "brain drain" in the US workforce and economy. If only companies could see this larger picture, she says, maybe then they would be more open to more parent-friendly policies.
Since Lucia's birth, Chang has applied to a wide range of positions, from established companies to brand-new start-ups, and even a weeklong stint as the mayor of Danzhai Wanda Village in Southwest China. As expected, the responses have been mixed, but some companies have been surprisingly receptive. "I think it opens people's minds and makes them think backwards and forwards, reflecting back on their childhood and mother," Chang says, "as well as envisioning what kind of workplaces will exist in the future." One aspect of a mother-baby team she tries to emphasize to prospective employers is the symbiotic relationship between loving mother and industrious worker. "I feel my new skills as a mom are transferable," she says. "Why not have the next step in my career path work with, rather than against, my new role and instincts?"
Though she has not received an offer just yet, Chang remains undeterred. "I live by the philosophy 'where there is a will, there is a way,'" she says. "And I want to be with Lucia as much as possible during this critical time. I am a better person because of her and with her."
Babies at Work Are Becoming More CommonChang is not alone. For at least the last decade, a burgeoning movement advocating for bringing babies to work has been taking shape and gaining momentum. Though the practice is still very much a fledgling one, forward-thinking companies - such as advertising agency T3 and PR firm Vanguard Communications - are starting to catch on to the value of bringing babies into the workplace.
According to the Parenting in the Workplace Institute (PIWI), which provides resources and best-practice guidelines for implementing babies-at-work policies, more than 200 businesses in the US have adopted such policies. Founded in 2007 by Carla Moquin, the PIWI has helped dozens of companies implement babies-at-work programs.
"There is a disparity between what people expect when they think about having babies in a work environment compared to what well-structured baby programs actually look like in practice," Moquin explains. Once a company observes the overwhelming benefits, she says, "they are typically eager to make the policy permanent."
Moquin knows firsthand how valuable and life-changing these programs can be for new parents - and that many moms and dads don't have the financial and social privileges Chang has when it comes to forcing an employer's hand. In fact, Moquin herself had to return to work when each of her daughters were less than 5 weeks old.
So how does a babies-at-work program work exactly? With PIWI's help, a company starts by implementing a short-term pilot program, a month-long "experimentation" that determines what a long-term policy might look like. "Once a pilot program is in place and companies see how well it works," Moquin says, "it is extremely rare for a company not to move forward with a permanent policy."
PIWI also offers a downloadable template, which outlines a recommended checklist of things to consider, like eligibility parameters, waivers and agreement forms to complete, and rules for the parent to adhere to.
At Badger, a family-owned company that makes organic bodycare products, employees request to participate in the program and are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. To date, the company has been fortunate to make the program work for every employee who has requested to participate. When an employee is approved, other logistical arrangements are put into place, such as a meeting room designated to easily be converted into an office/nursery, a separate room set up specifically for mothers to breastfeed or pump, and designated voluntary, alternate caregivers within Badger for those times the parent needs a break or needs to attend a meeting.
As for Chang's ideal setup, she envisions a small space in the office not too far from her desk where her baby can play and sleep that would be private enough for nursing or pumping. But since Lucia loves being "in the mix," Chang hopes she can also keep her even closer, perhaps in her carrier under an adjustable standing desk, as she suggests. If there are important meetings where a baby's presence might not be appropriate, having an onsite sitter like the ones at Badger would be the perfect solution. And while Chang believes in the value of working closely with her work team, she also knows that a flexible work-from-home policy would be immensely helpful for any new mom.
In Moquin's experience, these programs are adopted and integrated as seamlessly as any other company policy. It typically takes a week or two of sharing the office with their baby for the parent to find their "rhythm." "This is aided by the emotional and logistical support that most coworkers are eager to provide once they find themselves bonding with the babies," she says.
The Concrete Benefits to Baby-Friendly OfficesWhile parents might be the ones overwhelmingly pushing for baby-friendly policies, data suggest that companies see tangible benefits to instituting those policies, too. According to Moquin, here are some of the ways babies at work can help businesses:
- Increasing retention
- Encouraging employees to voluntarily return to work earlier, which saves the business money
- Increasing employee morale and loyalty, not just for the parents but for their coworkers as well, making employee recruitment easier
- Increasing teamwork and collaboration due to the presence of the babies and the social dynamics they create
Several organizations with similar programs have witnessed nearly identical results. Badger has seen the benefits of babies at work firsthand and cannot envision running their business any other way. "We've seen higher morale, increased engagement, and greater loyalty among employees," says Dee Fitzgerald, Badger's Marketing & PR Manager. "Parents feel supported and come to work knowing they are embraced by a community that sees them as a whole person and cares for their well-being."
While there are inevitably going to be a few downsides, namely the occasional distraction of a crying baby, the list is minuscule compared to the benefits. "Our experience so far has been that the benefits far outweigh the concerns or inconveniences." Plus, Fitzgerald exclaims, "It's the right thing to do!"
The Nevada State Health Division, which first introduced its program in 2009, noted increased productivity, improved morale, and better communication with no formal complaints. The NSHD's program was so successful it inspired other organizations in the state, like the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services and Nevada Child and Family Services, to adopt babies-at-work policies of their own.
According to a report by Society of Human Resource Management, who interviewed Virginia architectural design firm Peck, Peck & Associates on its babies-at-work program, the increase in retention is a standout benefit. "We've had people who were offered jobs [elsewhere] but stayed with us because of this," founder Dianne Peck told SHRM.
Curious companies, if you're reading this, perhaps one particular benefit should be underlined: not only do these programs cost very little, or virtually nothing, to implement, they will actually save you money.
"If your company has an open-door policy and is invested in the well-being of its employees," Fitzgerald says, "it is a relatively easy benefit to implement with little cost and a high return." She also emphasizes that such programs are powerful recruiting tools, which saves the company money in the long run. The NSHD made a similar note in its report, calling the program a "minimal investment as long as clear expectations and rules are in place."
But families benefit too, as Moquin notes:
- Parents can be present for those critical first six months of their baby's life
- Parents and babies don't have to experience the trauma of separating in those very vulnerable early months
- Parents face lower daycare costs/more financial stability
- Breastfeeding opportunities for moms increase
Chang hopes to highlight this multitude of benefits each time she applies to a job with Lucia, who she calls "a natural Chief Happiness Officer."
Advice For Parents Who Want to Bring Their Baby to WorkAs of press time, Chang is still job searching for the right position and company that will allow her to fulfill her dual roles as mother and creative whiz. She always knew that it might be trickier to apply as a "package deal," but she remains "hopeful and curious about the outcome." In the meantime, both Moquin and Fitzgerald offer invaluable advice to new moms like Chang.
"For a new mom applying to jobs, we recommend asking the hiring manager or HR representative what kinds of family-friendly benefits they offer and if babies at work would be something they would consider providing in the future," Fitzgerald says. "If the answer is 'yes,' then you know that the company culture is family-friendly and its leadership team places a high value on the happiness and well-being of its employees."
Moquin's advice is more practical. "For new moms who already have a baby and are looking for jobs, we actually recommend that they focus on flexible or work-from-home jobs unless they have a potential employer that is already eager to implement a baby program," she advises, acknowledging that not all moms can afford the luxury of a lengthy job search for an office that fulfills all their asks. "It can take weeks to months to convince a company to implement a program."
But Chang isn't giving up on finding a full-time job in an office environment. She has a newfound tenacity bolstered by her tiny teammate. "Babies are just everything," she says. "Babies represent new hopes, new aspirations." And if that means making the case for bringing Lucia to work knowing most companies will reject the very notion, she will do it, because she genuinely believes in the value of working alongside her daughter.
"As a team," Chang wrote in one cover letter, "we can bring positive energy and change to almost any situation we encounter, and would love to bring it to you."
A Gay Cafe Owner Had the Perfect Facebook Response to a Homophobic Couple
We've updated this story with comments from Horne.
Homophobia, despite progress toward equality, unfortunately remains alive and rampant. A gay cafe owner in Cairns, Australia, named Jay Horne posted his tale of prejudice (and how gracefully he handled it) on Facebook, and it's since gone viral.
🤔 I'm curious... 🤔
Do you think you are going to turn gay (if you're not already) if you eat and drink at a gay owned...
Posted by Jay Horne on Thursday, March 16, 2017
In the post shared on March 16, Horne explains that a couple who frequent his restaurant, Paradiso Cairns, recently decided not to return after discovering it was gay owned and operated. "Do you think you are going to turn gay (if you're not already) if you eat and drink at a gay owned and operated cafe?" Horne hilariously asked in the post.
"One of our regular 'straight' couples have stopped frequenting our cafe because we are gay owned and operated and they had no idea," he went on to detail. "All I can say is . . . their loss!"
POPSUGAR spoke to Horne about the experience and community response via Facebook messenger. "I don't want the world to think that Cairns is a homophobic city, as it's definitely not," Horne said. "I have been living here for eight years and proudly promote the Cairns region as an LGBT hot spot to both national and international travelers."
Horne told us that he's witnessed an outpouring of support from the community in Cairns following his post. "One gentleman came in on Saturday who was so thankful that he broke down in tears," Horne wrote. "Another couple who sat in the cafe in hope the old regulars would walk by so they could confront them. I know I don't stand alone."
He also added that using his profile to fight homophobia is important. "Cairns has one of the highest if not the highest youth suicide rate in Australia, which is often related to fear of not being accepted in the community as being gay," Horne said. "If I have helped one person or saved one person from taking their own life through sharing my experience, I am happy [sic]."
While incidents like this are widely reported in the United States, Horne's experience demonstrates that homophobia is an international issue. It's also an applaudable instance of responding to intolerance with dignity and a dash of humor.
This Teacher Was Arrested at a School Board Meeting After Speaking Out Against Unfair Pay
An Abbeville, LA, teacher voicing her opposition to a superintendent's salary increase was kicked out of a school board meeting on Jan. 8 and subsequently arrested. A video of the incident quickly went viral, raising concerns about the treatment of educators. Middle school English teacher Deyshia Hargrave is shown in the video being ejected from the board meeting after clashing with the school board over a contract renewal vote, then being handcuffed on the floor by a marshal and escorted from the building.
According to local news sources, Ms. Hargrave addressed the Vermilion Parish School Board to contest the renewal of superintendent Jerome Puyau's contract, which reportedly included a $30K raise. "I have a serious issue with a superintendent or any person in a position of leadership getting any type of raise," Hargrave, who won a teacher of the year award in 2016, told the board. "I feel like it is a slap in the face to all the teachers, cafeteria workers, and any other support staff we have . . . we work very hard with very little to maintain the salaries that we have."
The New York Times asserts that local teachers like Hargrave have reportedly not seen a permanent pay raise in a decade, which is what prompted the English instructor to protest the renewal of Puyau's contract. "It's a sad, sad day to be a teacher in Vermilion Parish," she said in the meeting. "We are doing the work, the students are doing the work. At the top, that is not where kids learn. It is in the classroom, and those teachers like myself are not getting a dime from that. And that is unspeakable."
Vermilion Parish School Board President Anthony Fontana told local news that he supports the actions of the school resource officer who arrested Hargrave: "He followed the procedures completely. She's the one who made the choices that got her arrested."
But attendees of the board meeting and citizens viewing the video alike have voiced concerns about the First Amendment rights of public educators. Read the full story at The New York Times and watch the 12-minute video of the incident above.
More States Are Officially Recognizing Gender X in Addition to Male and Female
It seems even more US states and districts are warming up to the idea of recognizing a third gender option. The new distinction - known simply as gender "X" - is a way for individuals to identify outside of the traditional and rigid gender binary of official documents and identifications including driver's licenses, state ID cards, and birth certificates.
The latest to recognize a third gender identification is Washington state, which defines "X" on its official governmental website as "a gender that is not exclusively male or female, including, but not limited to, intersex, agender, amalgagender, androgynous, bigender, demigender, female-to-male, genderfluid, genderqueer, male-to-female, neutrois, nonbinary, pangender, third sex, transgender, transsexual, Two Spirit, and unspecified." According to CNN, Washington will begin issuing the option on Jan. 27.
Washington state follows just a handful of other states and districts that have begun to adhere to the same guidelines. In June 2017, Washington DC began issuing its own gender-neutral driver's licenses with the "X" distinction. In early July, Oregon followed suit and became the first state to offer a third gender option on driver's licenses. Then, in October, California marked another first: the state introduced official legislation that allows citizens to choose a third gender on California state-issued IDs, birth certificates, and driver's licenses.
As for the future, it seems Vermont may be the next to join the "X" movement - according to Vermont Public Radio, the state DMV is considering adding the third option to identification. Beyond Vermont, it's not yet clear if any other states have plans to follow suit, but every time a new state aligns with the movement, it's another step toward a more progressive (and inclusive) future.
Say Goodbye to Surge Pricing Forever With This 1 Uber Feature
Once again, Uber is coming through with the perfect new feature for the holiday season - but it just so happens that this year, it's the feature we've been dreaming of for all these years. Never again do you have to stick around at that party for just a little bit longer in order to get the pricing down just a teeny-tiny bit, and you can completely forget about cutting your airport arrival horridly close in order to save a couple bucks - you can now officially beat the holiday surge by scheduling your ride in advance and locking in an upfront fare. The new feature works for scheduling rides that are between 60 minutes to 30 days in advance and will be rolled out to major cities across the US in the next week.
"The holiday season is always a stressful and busy time of year for travelers - whether they're rushing to make an early flight or heading to a holiday party," said Uber product marketing manager Alana Epstein, in a statement provided exclusively to POPSUGAR. "That's why we're introducing upfront fares for scheduled rides. Now, you'll always see the price ahead of time when you schedule at least an hour in advance, which ensures a care-free travel experience and no surprises on availability or fare."
To get started with scheduling out your holiday, tap "Where to?" as you normally would, select a date and time at least 60 minutes in advance, add in your pickup and drop-off locations, and voila! Before your very eyes will be an upfront, hassle-and-surge-free price. Keep in mind that adding in any additional stops will likely affect your final price, and of course, the ride is subject to additional fees if there are delays.
So, what are you waiting for? Get those rides booked now for optimal savings, and we promise your bank account will thank you come January.
The 6 Most Important Issues in the World, According to Millennials
We all know that millennials have a lot of feelings. It's that abundance of feelings that countless brands, marketers, and entrepreneurs have seized upon, crafting their products to the needs of the 20-something, shifting their messaging to be more in line with the ideals that millennials embrace. But while it's easy to identify and target a specific demographic, success among a particular generation is far less frequent. It can be incredibly difficult to separate what a group cares most about from what it is they want others to believe is their raison d'être - and those two sentiments are not always in line with one another.
As the first age group to enter maturity with access to the internet and social media, millennials have a unique brand of public persona that can sometimes be completely independent from an individual's true feelings. As a result, it's hard to predict what apps will be popular with millennials a week from now - let alone what global issues they find to be of most concern. That is, until the Global Shapers Survey came along.
Now in its third year, the World Economic Fund's annual poll measures the pulse of millennials on issues ranging from economic inequality to climate change and everything in between. The nearly 25,000 participants in the 2017 survey came from 186 different countries, and those involved were asked questions pertaining not only their city or town, but also about the world they live in.
Ahead, we've highlighted the top six issues that matter the most to millennials, according to this year's study. For a more in-depth look at what these findings mean, check out the full report or head over to the Global Shapers site for more information.
A New Shave Club Called Billie Is Here to Free Us From the Pink Tax Forever
If you're anything like me, you've spent the last couple years wondering why nobody had ever attempted to launch a Dollar Shave Club for women. Think about it: the so-called "pink tax" makes everything slightly more expensive for women, and there's no possible way to deny the straight-up racket that is the razor industry - so why not tap into that already-captive audience? Thankfully, there's now a brand that's willing to step up and take on the existential challenge - and it goes by the name of Billie.
Like Harry's and the aforementioned Dollar Shave Club, >Billie is a "female-first body brand built on providing premium-quality shaving and body care products through a convenient subscription model at affordable prices." And when they say affordable prices, that's really what they are - we're talking a mere $9 for the first order of two razor blades, a handle, and a holder. All of your subsequent refills (which come with four razor blades a piece) remain at that lovely price, as well - though it's totally up to you how often you get them sent right to your door.
Billie isn't just limited to razors, though. You can also add in additional products like shaving cream and body wash at an additional cost, based on how much you're willing to shell out. Given the prices listed on the website, it's probably safe to say that you're going to get a better deal on toiletries in your subscription than you would from your local drugstore, but you don't have to make a firm commitment up front, and the service is practically built for dabbling.
"We created Billie because women deserve to have a great shave experience at a fair price," cofounder Georgina Gooley told POPSUGAR. "Most shaving companies are created for men, and, unfortunately, women are an afterthought in this category. We're still overpaying for pink razors and subjected to the "pink tax." Our goal is to provide a shave experience that puts women first - we're delivering razors and bodycare products that are designed for the way women shave and pricing them at half the price of the competition and definitely without the pink tax."
And that sentiment isn't just a talking point. Billie's Nov. 14 launch is being celebrated with a very special "Pink Tax Rebate" program, which lets you earn credit that you can use toward a purchase simply by sharing a referral code with your friends and family. And like the service itself, there's no nonsense built into the way it works: for every 5, 10, or 20 people you get to sign up for the rebate, you get a $5, $10, or $20 credit added to your account.
Ultimately, it's hard not to be excited that there's finally a service like Billie that recognizes the disparity in pricing and the severe gap that's opened up between men and women's products. You can bet that I'll be signing up for the service starting today - and here's hoping that Billie is the first in a long, successful line of companies that help us banish the pink tax for good.
The 15 Best Independent Bookstores in the US
When it's time to hit the road for a vacation, there are two things that bookworms know to be true. First of all, you can never pack too many books in your suitcase and carry-on (although those overweight luggage fees are definitely not on our side). The other is that, no matter where we go, it would be straight-up sacrilege to not visit any and all renowned independent bookstores in the vicinity.
With no disrespect to chain bookstores, there's nothing quite as magical as an independent bookstore. Each has its own unique atmosphere, decor, selection, and claim to fame, but they all have one thing in common - when a bookworm steps inside, we immediately know that we could spend an entire day there.
Despite the rise of e-readers, there's no shortage of incredible independent bookstores in America. In fact, some of us (*raises hand*) have even planned trips just so we can visit certain indies. Luckily, many of them are located in popular tourist destinations like New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. So before you head out on your next trip, check out this list of the 15 best independent bookstores in the country.
The First Female Marine to Fly An F-18 in Combat Is Running For Congress in Kentucky
Lieutenant General Amy McGrath is a retired fighter pilot, and the first woman to fly an F-18 in combat. Now, she's running for Congress in Kentucky.
On August 1, a mere two months after retiring from a 20-year career in the Marines - during which she flew 89 combat missions, and bombed both al Qaeda and the Taliban - McGrath posted a YouTube video announcing her candidacy for the 2018 race in Kentucky's 6th district. While McGrath has always known that her dream job was to fly fighter jets, she's no stranger to the way that Congress works. In fact, her history with the governing body dates all the way back to the age of 13.
"When I was 13, my congressman told me I couldn't fly in combat. He said Congress thought women ought to be protected and not allowed to serve in combat," she says in the ad, while walking on a runway in front of a jet. "I never got a letter back from my senator, Mitch McConnell." McGrath goes on describe how she wrote letters to each and every member of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees asking them to change the rules, and while she may not have heard from the current House Majority Leader, she did in fact hear back from several who tried to tell her she couldn't do it - though the law changed when she was accepted into the Naval Academy.
It's this type of strength in the face of adversity that McGrath will bring to the race in Kentucky's 6th, where she will face off against two other Democratic challengers seeking to unseat Republican incumbent Rep. Andy Barr. Barr, a noted Trump supporter who has stood by all of the president's controversial policy decisions (and lack thereof) has been the subject of a lot of criticism from his constituency over the fact that he has taken stances on the issues that don't necessarily align with the values and beliefs of the people that he represents. The dissatisfaction came to a head this Spring when Barr held a Town Hall during the Congressional recess and was met with boos, interruptions, and angry words from those who attended the event, specifically about his continued support of a repeal and replace for Obamacare, as the program enabled Medicaid to expand in the state and now enables nearly half a million additional people to receive healthcare benefits.
These sentiments are not lost on McGrath, who is seeking to capitalize on Barr's shortcomings with a heavy focus on healthcare and the struggles of low-income families during her campaign. She joins a handful of other veterans who have already come forward as candidates for the 2018 election, looking to join the fight against President Trump.
And you can bet that we'll be closely watching her campaign in the coming months, because McGrath is one badass woman that we would love to see take a seat in 2018.
Get Your Wands at the Ready, Because a Harry Potter Exhibit Is on Its Way
If you need us, we'll be waiting on the edge of our seats until October. British Library exhibition Harry Potter: A History of Magic is debuting at the New York Historical Society on Oct. 5 and will run until Jan. 27, 2019. The tickets will go on sale for members on Feb. 14 and then to the general public in April.
The exhibit celebrates the 20th anniversary of the release of the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone book. It will take attendees through the history of the books and movies and the real-life magic and myths that inspired the creation of Harry Potter. You will also be able to walk away with a book on the exhibition, Harry Potter: A Journey Through a History of Magic. It's not exactly another Harry Potter book, but we'll take it.
Meet the Bachelor Winter Games Cast: Dean Unglert, Ben Higgins, and More!
Grab your nearest scarf, because the Bachelor Winter Games cast is here! Some of the most beloved stars from Bachelor Nation have signed on to the spinoff, which will see former USA contestants like Dean Unglert, Ben Higgins, Ashley Iaconetti, and Clare Crawley competing against international Bachelor and Bachelorette stars. The special series is only four episodes long and will be hosted by franchise mainstay Chris Harrison. Before you see the cast face off in exciting, Winter-themed challenges at The Hermitage Club in Wilmington, VT, on Feb. 13, get to know the whole cast.
Justin Timberlake's "Filthy" Music Video Has the Internet Majorly Divided
Justin Timberlake has divided the nation. This year's Super Bowl half-time performer dropped his first single, "Filthy," from his upcoming album, Man of the Woods, and people all over the world (see: the internet) had very strong feelings about it. "First I thought JT's song new song #filthy was trash. Upon second listen I think it's garbage," one person earnestly tweeted. And it didn't stop there. Timberlake's fans came out in his defense, calling the song and music video - which features a dancing robot - "experimental" and "sexy." Read on to see all the best reactions to JT's comeback single, then watch the video above and be the judge for yourself.
When Does 13 Reasons Why Season 2 Premiere? Here's What We Know
Ever since Netflix officially renewed 13 Reasons Why for season two in May 2017, fans have been anxiously awaiting the show's premiere date. While we already know that production started this past Summer and that some new faces have been added to the mix, Netflix has only confirmed that the show will return in 2018 for a 13-episode run. However, given that production wrapped up in December, it looks like we could be getting a Spring or Summer release. Fingers crossed!
According to Netflix, the show will pick up "in the aftermath of Hannah Baker's death and the start of the characters' complicated journeys toward healing and recovery." Katherine Langford recently told EW that we should expect to "see a very different Hannah," while Dylan Minnette hinted that Clay might be getting a new love interest while speaking to Us Weekly back in August. Guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens when 13 Reasons Why returns.
Award Season Scorecard: How the Buzziest Movies Are Doing So Far
The Golden Globe awards have kicked off 2018's award season, which means that a handful of 2017's most acclaimed movies have already taken home some awards. With the next shows coming up fast and furious - the Critics' Choice Awards are this week, followed by the SAG Awards on Jan. 21 - we're keeping track of who's already a huge winner this award season. With movies like Call Me by Your Name getting a ton of buzz but not the most nominations or awards (that would seem to be Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, thus far), it's already shaping up to be a very interesting award season. See which movies have what nominations and wins so far, and get very excited for it to all get shaken up when the Oscar nominations are announced on Jan. 23!
Get Your Wine Glasses Ready: Here's Your First Look at The Bachelor Winter Games
Brace yourself, because the first look at The Bachelor Winter Games is here, and we're in for a wild ride! In the sneak peek, the narrator warns fans that "Winter tears are coming" and then cuts to Ashley Iaconetti in a confessional room, crying and saying, "I don't understand why I'm always friend-zoned." The four-episode ABC series premieres on Feb. 13 and will feature a handful of Bachelor alums including Iaconetti, Ben Higgins, Luke Pell, and Rachel Lindsay, as well as current bachelor Arie Luyendyk Jr. Bring on the drama!
14 Things We Know About The Handmaid's Tale Season 2
We're officially in some new fresh hell in 2018, and when it comes to The Handmaid's Tale, we're already looking ahead. If you read the book, you'll know that the first season finale ends in the same frustrating way the book ends: June is taken into a mysterious van and carted off to a mysterious future somewhere else. In this case, though, we don't have to wonder endlessly. The story will continue. Since we're venturing into uncharted territory beyond the books, the sky is pretty much the limit. How much can we uncover about the show's next chapter? Well, blessed be the fruit - we've got a lot to go over. Let's see what we could uncover (under his eye).
1. It's Going to Be Longer
While the first season was 10 episodes, the second has been extended to 13.
2. Alexis Bledel Will Reprise Her Role
Thought you'd seen the last of Ofglen/Emily? Not so fast. Bledel has been confirmed as part of season two's cast! We'll get a glimpse of Ofglen in the Colonies, the toxic wasteland where women who commit crimes are sent as punishment. "We get to see the colonies. It's a terrible place where they send Unwomen to work them to death," executive producer Bruce Miller said during a pre-Emmy panel in August. Bledel also commented on her character's new situation, saying, "I'm very interested to see what that looks like because it's a completely different world we haven't seen on the show yet - and I'm scared."
3. The Colonies Are Even Bleaker and Darker Than They Sound
A new feature by Marie Claire describes the Colonies in all their grim glory. As a refresher, the Colonies are where deviants (known as Unwomen) get sent for misbehaving. The new story describes the Colonies as "a dark and grime-filled wasteland." Costume designer Ane Crabtree offered a bit more insight. "The Unwomen are kind of the new Handmaids in season two. They're turning over soil, trying to move radiation, so they get filthy," she revealed. "They have probably six months - at best two years - to live. We're trying to show that humanity in their costumes. I made beautiful sheer pieces to be worn under their outfits since they strip down, as their clothing is full of radiation." Yikes.
4. Surprise, Surprise: The President Has Inspired Parts of the Season
While season one of the show was planned before the 2016 election, the same is not true for season two. When it comes to some of Trump's "draconian policies," as Marie Claire phrases it, creator Bruce Miller can't help but incorporate today's reality into the fabric of the show. "Oh, I think we can't help but let it influence us," he said. "We have let it influence us. And there are a lot of issues we brought up last year that we want to address this year in ways we never had time to."
5. Things Are Only Going to Get Worse All Around
Earlier this month, The Pool interviewed Elisabeth Moss and grilled her on what's to come. "Wait till you see what's coming! It's going to get worse, girl. Season two is going to be bad too, really dark." Here we were, thinking June might have been rescued from the Waterfords. Maybe it's not that simple.
6. June's Romance With Nick May Intensify
Elle ran a profile of Moss in early June, and she dropped a small tidbit about her Gilead lover, Nick. "It's part of the reason that I'm really excited about a season two, she's in this position where she might be in love with two people," Moss said, "Honestly, I think she does love Nick - if I can speak for her - but I don't know if she knows that she does yet. But she has a husband who she also loves, who's the father of Hannah, who she also now knows is alive."
7. Pay Attention to the Marthas
Showrunner Bruce Miller noted, "The Marthas in general in Gilead are kind of invisible . . . it's been great for us that it's been such a slow and careful building of a relationship between Rita and Offred. That slow and careful build-up in season one leads to a payoff so that we can use her more in season two."
8. We Might See Aunt Lydia's Backstory
Meanwhile, Miller also spoke to The New York Times about season two. Aunt Lydia could still play a key role in the show's next chapter. "Aunt Lydia is one of my most fascinating characters," Miller said. "We would like to explore her back story, and what the lives of the aunts are like."
9. The Mayday Resistance Is Another Key Component, but Let's Not Get Too Excited
It's easy to assume Mayday means salvation for the Handmaids, but not so fast. "The Mayday resistance is going to be a big part of Season two," Miller admitted. "The part that I've been thinking about is that Mayday is not the handmaid rescue organization - it's the anti-Gilead organization. And the anti-Gilead organization is not necessarily a friend to June or a friend to Handmaids. If I was going to try to hurt Gilead, the first thing I might do is kill all the handmaids. You're trying to weaken the state."
10. The Waterfords Aren't Necessarily Going Away
After the finale, Miller talked about what's to come. In regards to the Waterfords, he said, "They're still a part of our plans for season two but in interesting ways."
11. We Might Meet June's Mother
Miller also explained how June's parentage could factor into the story. Miller spoke about June's mother: "We've been thinking about her a lot. June's mother is a big character in the book and representative of an interesting kind of feminism that was seemingly more of that time."
12. The Theme
"At the end of season one, we find out June was pregnant. The theme of season two is motherhood and what it means to be a mother," Miller explained at The Handmaid's Tale panel in August. "It's the way we mother our good friends and the people in our lives."
13. Luke and Moira Might Attempt a Daring Rescue
During the panel in August, Samira Wiley discussed the new possibilities season two holds since it's going beyond the story of the book. "The [first] season ends exactly where the book ends, and to be able to go in season two not knowing what's going to happen and to be in this completely new country with Luke who's the only family I have, it's exciting to see what's going to happen," she said.
14. The Premiere Date Has Been Set
The second season is going to drop in April, but there hasn't been any word on what day.
Is Black Mirror Feminist? Breaking It Down by Each Episode
The newest season of Black Mirror refreshingly centers each story around fleshed-out female characters - mind you, not only strong women, but flawed, nuanced women. I mean, what is a Black Mirror episode without dreary twists and less-than-perfect characters? From a female villain like Mia in "Crocodile" to a woman in the wild like Bella in "Metalhead," the fourth season of Black Mirror puts women at the forefront of its storytelling.
Let's break down this season to see how well Charlie Brooker develops the female characters. Just a brief warning - we have some season four spoilers ahead!
The 100: Everything We Know About Season 5
When we last left the The 100, "praimfaya," a highly radioactive fire spreading rapidly across the globe after the last nuclear reactors melt down, is threatening all of Earth's inhabitants. A bunker is protecting roughly 1200 people, a mix of people from the Ark and Grounders, while the core group of Bellamy, Murphy, Emori, Monty, Harper, Echo and Raven blast off into space to wait it out on the still-orbiting remains of the Ark. And poor Clarke, who nearly dies making it possible for her friends to escape in the shuttle, is left on the ground, presumably to die.
But her nightblood saves her, as a time jump reveals that Clarke has been living on Earth with a young nightblood girl, Madi, for the past six years. She has constantly been trying to contact the Ark, and just when she thinks they've returned to Earth, it turns out to be a prison ship . . . and it doesn't seem particularly friendly.
So, when the show picks up, what can we expect from season five?
At the 2017 San Diego Comic-Con, creator Jason Rothenberg revealed that the prison ship is from Earth, carrying prisoners from before the apocalypse 100 years ago.
"They're from our time, so they're from before the first apocalypse," he said. "That means it's probably cryo. They were in hypersleep. They've come back to this planet that they don't recognize and has been destroyed, and all that's left is this garden of Eden that Clarke's been living in, and there's not enough room for everyone."
That's obviously going to present a problem. But another problem is going to be digging the people in the bunker out from beneath the rubble. They are still alive, though. Marie Avgeropoulos revealed at SDCC that Octavia will be working hard to keep the peace among the bunker inhabitants in season five.
As for the space travelers, while we don't know exactly what shape they're going to return to Earth in, Rothenberg did tease some relationship shake-ups.
"People break up, people get back together, people fool around. They do have six years of time to kill, and there's not a lot to do," said the EP.
The creators have also revealed some specifics about the new threats our protagonists will be facing. There's a serial killer named Vinson, a cocky space pirate named Zeke, a new Big Bad named Robert McCreary, a former crime syndicate enforcer who has been a prisoner on the ship, and Banshee alum Ivana Milicevic as a military strategist named Charmaine. Side note: Banshee is an under-the-radar gem that aired on Cinemax from 2013 to 2016, so if you have some time to kill before The 100 returns on April 24, check it out.
The official trailer for season five of The 100 hasn't been released yet; CW president Mark Pedowitz told the 2018 TCA winter press tour that it will be released in March - but there is a teaser!
Yes, You Do Recognize This End of the F***ing World Star From Black Mirror
Netflix recently debuted a dark comedy following two unconventional teenagers who fall in love while on a road trip, and we're already hooked. Alex Lawther portrays one of the troubled teenagers in The End of the F***ing World, specifically a self-proclaimed psychopath named James who plans on executing his new girlfriend. Yikes!
Now that everyone is glued to the brand-new series, some people are scratching their heads wondering where they recognize the psychopathic protagonist from. He looks so familiar, right? Well, turns out he appears in the third season of Black Mirror.
Lawther stars in the third episode of the season, called "Shut Up and Dance." The narrative is set in a relatively normal world. Kenny is furious after his sister Lindsay infects his laptop with malware, and he downloads a supposed "anti-malware" program which is anything but. What the program actually does is allow a team of hackers to tap into his camera who force him to fulfill a crazed, chaotic series of demands in order to prevent an, erm, private video of himself from being leaked to the public.
I'm not going to spoil the ending for those who haven't seen it (in which case, what are you even doing??), but the episode is quite the adventure - much like his new series.
33 Bloody Brilliant Songs From The End of the F***ing World
The End of the F***ing World is in a league of its own. The new British Netflix show, which premiered Jan. 5, follows two teenage runaways as foul-mouthed Alyssa and self-diagnosed psychopath James make a break from their boring home lives, only to end up in more trouble than they bargained for. Eight episodes long, the show is dark and bloody while also maintaining a unique blend of humor and romance, a balance that plays out well partially because of the show's stellar, nostalgic music.
Like the cast, script, and look of The End of the F***ing World, the show's soundtrack is bloody amazing. Not only is the show self-aware enough to acknowledge its American influences, but the soundtrack even features songs from British artists whose sounds have roots in American blues, soul, and rock music. "Keep On Running" by 1960s-era UK band The Spencer Davis Group accompanies James and Alyssa while they themselves are on the run, and the soundtrack is riddled with doo-wop, classic rock, country, and soul songs that are enough to make you forget that the show is set in present day. At first it may seem as if James and Alyssa's grisly world is at odds with a soundtrack steeped in American of American-inspired oldies, but listen closer to the 33 songs we've compiled and it's clear why the music, like the main couple, is just crazy enough to work.
Star Wars: Everything We Know About the Han Solo Spinoff Movie
By now we all know that Han Solo is getting his own . . . wait for it . . . solo film, and although many of the important details are still deep, deep under wraps, a few tidbits about the exciting new movie have managed to leak to the general public. The latest news is that the highly-anticipated title of the film has finally been unveiled (spoiler alert: it's very, very simple). Keep reading to see all the other important information we've rounded up about the space flick so far, then check out all of the actors who were formerly in the running to play Han!
15 Shiny New Shows Coming to Netflix in 2018
Netflix is making new TV series and movies at a blistering rate, with dozens of original programs currently airing, and having announced back in October that the streaming service is going to release 80 original movies in 2018. So what shows are going to be the next Stranger Things or Orange Is the New Black? Maybe it's one of these 15 new shows coming to Netflix this year.
There's a sci-fi offering set so far in the future that human consciousness is now downloadable, there's a new anthology series that sounds a lot like American Crime (and even has Regina King as one of its stars), and there's a reboot of the 1960s series Lost in Space, which sounds funny on its face but boasts an impressive pedigree with stars Toby Stephens, Molly Parker, and Parker Posey.
There Appear to Be Two New Beauty Babies on the Way For KKW Beauty
https://t.co/PoBZ3bhjs8 http://pic.twitter.com/WlwpbIGXKa
- Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) January 8, 2018
It's no secret that Kim Kardashian West can pretty much set, kill, and then bring back to life just about any trend on the internet. Case in point: baking. Only last Summer, West, after years of wearing the making setting technique, told the world that she was over it. Now, with the tease of her very own KKW Beauty baking powder, via Twitter, the trend is apparently 'set' for a comeback. (In case you forgot, baking is a technique used to set powder on the skin.)
Very little deets were given on the KKW Beauty version of the powder. We just see it being applied to West's face along with the caption "KKWBeauty.com." The beauty baking method had a major moment on Instagram and Snapchat and has been heavily used by West's makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, for years. Until of course, she ditched it for a simpler aesthetic and "monochromatic nudes." Naturally, the internet followed suit.
The still-infant brand has been cranking out newness with speed. Along with the baking powder tease, both West and Dedivanovic posted a pic of a new concealer, also expected to hit this Spring. It looks like the four-part undereye concealer that West hinted at back in July. What does four parts means exactly? We'll have to wait for the tutorial that West and Dedivanovic were filming to fully understand. Curious to see how it compares to little sis Kylie's recent release of a pretty extensive lineup of concealers? Only time and internet reviews will tell.
💋 @MakeupByMario http://pic.twitter.com/EtkiisaOvo
- Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) January 8, 2018
Emily Ratajkowski Is the Sexy-as-All-Hell New Face of Kérastase
Eyes up here! Emily Ratajkowski may be known for having curves that would make anyone blush . . . and we all did when she starred as the hot chick in Robin Thicke's famous "BlurredLines" video. She immediately made headlines and editorials while amassing over 16 million followers on Instagram.
In 2014, Emily proved she is more than just another sexy model by showing off her acting skills in Gone Girl. She is now establishing herself as a true beauty muse. And you know what they say: once you land a mega beauty campaign, it means you've "made it."
One of the most prestigious L'Oréal-owned haircare brands, Kérastase, has just named Emily its newest celebrity ambassador. In her campaign's images shot with Inez & Vinoodh, it's hard to pay attention to anything other than her voluminous, gorgeous hair.
"Hair makes me feel powerful in a way," Emily exclusively told POPSUGAR via email. "Hair is super feminine, and I find power in femininity."
"Hair is super feminine, and I find power in femininity."
She went on to discuss beauty, in general. "Being a woman today means living life on your terms, defining and pursuing an existence that is entirely your own. So my vision of an ideal beauty is a woman who is completely her own self. Beauty can also make you stronger because it sparks a level of confidence in what makes you unique, and an appreciation and self-love will make you stronger in all that you do."
When it comes to her top Kérastase products, she chose a range that is also a house favorite at POPSUGAR.
"I'm absolutely loving Aura Botanica, the new natural range," she said. "I love that the ingredients in this line are sourced responsibly and help create jobs for different women in different countries around the world. It's really what I'm all about. Empowering women. I love it. Plus my hair feels super clean and nourished but also really light and shiny."
Emily joins a prestigious roster of women in the Kérastase family, including Kate Moss and January Jones. Looks like 2018 may just be the hottest year in hair yet!
Breaking: Gal Gadot Is the New Face of Revlon - Because She's a Goddamned Superheroine
Mazel tov to Gal Gadot, the Israeli actress known for her outstanding role as Wonder Woman, who has just been announced as the new face of Revlon! Gal was tapped to front the beauty brand's campaign, dubbed Live Boldly. The idea behind this is to bring power women together to share experiences about life and beauty diversity. Gal represents these ideals perfectly as a successful working woman and mother, who is badass all around.
"I was very excited," Gal told POPSUGAR about this partnership. "Revlon is an iconic and ground-breaking brand. I literally think it is the first cosmetics brand that I was exposed to. My mom and my grandmother used to have their products. So I was very, very excited."
In the campaign shots, Gal is seen wearing a Wonder Woman-inspired red lipstick. She was also wearing it at the event in NYC where we interviewed her. "Certainly Red - that's my go-to," she said of the Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick shade we predict is about to disappear from shelves. "It's my favorite one, and it's all over the place."
Expect to see ads featuring Gal this month!
Kendall Jenner Silenced Rude Comments About Her Acne in the Best Way Possible
Kendall Jenner attended the Golden Globes on Sunday and looked stunning in a black strapless gown and an even sexier afterparty look. But rather than focus on how beautiful she looked while wearing all black to support the Time's Up initiative, some people made rude comments about her acne.
Because trolls are never ones to keep quiet, people called Kendall out on Twitter during the red carpet specifically for the appearance of her face. Kendall made sure not to let them have the last word, and she responded in the best way possible: with an inspirational tweet of her own. "Never let that sh*t stop you!" she wrote on Monday.
never let that shit stop you! 😎✨ https://t.co/uXlqwJxTPf
- Kendall (@KendallJenner) January 8, 2018
Kendall has opened up about her battle with acne in the past, saying that it "wasn't anything that happened overnight." The fact that the 22-year-old model still struggles with acne just like many of us proves she's more relatable than you might think, and her response is the perfect message for anyone whose confidence is affected by it.
You go, girl!
28 Gorgeous Wildflower Tattoos For Free Spirits
If you're stuck on what to get inked, consider going the flower route. On top of obviously being aesthetically beautiful, floral designs can be personalized to hold a whole lot of meaning, from representing your birth month to capturing your personality. For all you free spirits out there, wildflower and botanical tattoos would especially be fitting! You can choose to keep it minimal or go crazy with bunches and color. Get inspired by one of the 28 stunning ideas ahead.
Does This Viral Bum Bum Cream Really Work? An Investigation
When it comes to beauty and sex appeal, Brazil is the ultimate one upper. Just look at Brazilian bombshells Gisele Bündchen, Adriana Lima, and Alessandra Ambrosio!
It's also the country that took a once-sexy bikini bottom, eliminated half the fabric, added some ruching, and created the sexiest butt-hugging bottoms known to mankind. Brazilians have transformed the classic three-day blowout to extend it for months of frizz-free, glossy shine wash after wash. Their bronze is bronzier, their hair bouncier, their glow glowier, and that's just a simple fact of Brazilian life.
So when a product comes along that promises the smooth, polished skin of a Brazilian beauty, there's a reason the greater beauty universe freaks out about it - myself included. To help set the record straight once and for all, here's everything you need to know about the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream ($45) that's taking over the internet.
20 Incredible Drugstore Skincare Products You Need in 2018 - All Under $20
There's no easier way to pamper yourself in the new year than by indulging in a few new skincare items. Identifying a new product that can address skin imbalances can help put you on the right track. We rounded up a list of hydrating, refreshing items your skin will love. So whether you want to find a new cleanser or hydrating face mask, these reviving drugstore picks won't let you down.
Why Kendall Jenner's Acne Going Viral Is Part of a Bigger Problem
If you meet someone who hasn't dealt with acne, consider them a unicorn and put them in the Smithsonian. It's a rite of passage for many people, and as we age, we're learning that due to our hormones, adult acne is commonplace. And frankly, it's nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed of.
Acne does not mean you aren't clean. It doesn't mean you haven't tried everything you can to get rid of it. There are so many factors now when it comes to blemish-prone skin: it can be as simple as changing your laundry detergent or as complicated as the medication you're taking. The point is that for most of us, acne is normal. It might suck, but it doesn't make you different. In fact, it makes you human.
When it comes to social media, though, you'll see nary a blemish, a scar, a mark, a bump. Smooth, mannequin-esque skin is rampant thanks to photo-editing apps like Facetune - a built-in form of Photoshop for your phone. It's been reported that people are getting surgeries and treatments to look more like the edited and filtered versions of their photos. And of course we see poreless, perfect photographs for campaigns. One could argue that for professional images, retouching is commonplace, but when it comes to scrolling through Instagram, it seems like we should be a little more realistic.
Which leads us to Kendall Jenner at the Golden Globes. She looked stunning. Kendall is undeniably gorgeous: she's tall with striking features; she's a model, for god's sake. But it's hard to get through any type of big event without a woman enduring intense criticism, so many chose to emphasize something she probably would have rather been ignored: her skin.
The fact is that Kendall had a breakout. Shocking! A woman with real, uncontrollable skin! Normally this isn't something we'd call attention to, but seeing how people went after her for something completely normal, we felt this photo was important to discuss for a few reasons.
First, Kendall has been vocal about her acne in the past, and she had a great response in regard to the criticism she was receiving about her skin at the Globes. Kendall is also an inspirational standard of beauty for many. She is tall, and she seemingly has the perfect body, hair, and face. As a normal person, it can feel overwhelming to see perfect images online because it's feels like you're not living up to a particular standard when it comes to beauty. You place the blame on yourself.
How many times have you looked in a mirror and wondered why your lips weren't bigger or smaller? Your skin not smoother? Your eyes not more cat-like? Your hair not thicker or straighter? Your complexion not even-toned? Your waistline not thinner? Where did these lines come from? We all have something that, whether we realize it or not, bothers us because of the images we are fed each day online.
This picture, however, reminds everyone that Kendall is a 22-year-old. She has hormones and bad skin days, just like the rest of us. She's human. It's also a reminder that editing is just as commonplace on social media as it is in magazines. You can't trust every image you see.
You might not realize it, but many of the top influencers online are editing their photos with precision. It's not just a filter change anymore - things can be removed, plumped, lifted, and enhanced. Instagram account CelebFace has made an impact in the beauty community by posting extreme close-ups and before-and-after photos of celebrities. The people behind the account also post GIFs to demonstrate how they've been edited - sometimes extensively so. Some of the page's content can be gossipy at times, but in general, it's creating a dialogue about how far we'll go on social media to look our best. (CelebFace did not return POPSUGAR's request for comment.)
Many of those featured on CelebFace change the size of their already-tiny waists, their jawlines, and their eye shapes. The account also showcases filler and plastic surgeries, which is nothing to be ashamed of. These are not taboo topics in 2018, although it feels like everyone would rather ignore the sometimes-obvious elephant in the room. The changes become an issue when it's clear that a celebrity has done "something" but portray it as natural or as if it's makeup.
"We need to know the truth behind beauty to stop dysmorphia issues," said Andrea Berk, founder of digital beauty agency HDN. "If we don't love something about our physical appearance, we can change it, and that's the beauty of modern science. But not acknowledging the changes made causes so much confusion and inner struggle about our perceived flaws."
That said, one could argue that it's nobody's business what you do or don't do to your face and body. And that's true. But when you're influencing a large demographic of impressionable women and men, it's fair to want transparency, especially when body dysmorphic disorder starts as young as 12-13 years old. Because it's near impossible to know who and what's been edited or changed, it's important to make sure you keep a realistic perspective when it comes to beauty. And part of that is as simple as curating your Instagram so that you only see images that make you feel your best.
"I'm a strong advocate of responsible social media usage," said Daniel Lyman, LCSW. Lyman works with a variety of actors in Los Angeles who are experiencing body dysmorphia at the hands of the media. The celebrity is scrutinized for his or her appearance and feels pressure to look a certain way, which leads to cosmetic procedures or edited images. This all feeds into the unrealistic beauty culture that's been created online.
"It is more important that you follow the right people than it is to follow everyone," Lyman said. "What you see online is about controlling the content you subscribe to. If certain websites regularly body shame people, then don't continue going to that website. If certain Instagrammers make you feel worse about yourself, then it's important to unfollow them. Taking control of your internet usage means taking control of the content you allow yourself to see."
Whatever side you're on, we all know that more than ever, there is an unfair pressure to look perfect, regardless of what you're doing: with or without makeup, at home or at a party. But nobody is without flaws. Everybody, including celebrities, has bad days. This photo of Kendall, and others like it, should not encourage you to pick apart how someone looks. It should inspire empathy.
When looking at a photo, think: what if that were me? How would you want people to react and respond? This photo should remind you that you are beautiful regardless of what your skin looks that day or how a certain image made you feel about yourself. It should remind you that social expectations typically do not meet reality. That you are enough the way you are. And if you want to change something about yourself, go for it. Just make sure you're doing it for you, not anyone else - especially the pressure to look a certain way through typically inauthentic online images.
10 New Drugstore Beauty Products You Won't Want to Miss in 2018
If you're looking for a simple way to treat yourself in the new year, try testing out a few new hair and beauty products. You don't have to spend a fortune to pamper yourself, either, because there are trusted products at your local drugstore. From velvety lipsticks to cleansing sticks and even a micellar-water-infused shampoo, these fresh deliveries are worth trying. Make this your best year yet and shop these hot releases.
Things I Whisper to My Daughter
My dearest girl,
When I first learned that I was pregnant with you, many people told me how hard it is to raise a child in the current climate. I don't disagree with them. You're not my only child, but you are my only girl, which put a bit of pressure on me to really get it right.
The second I found out about you, I started to whisper things to you - things I knew you wouldn't understand then, things you still might not understand now. I whisper them to you because I want you to know that you can accomplish anything, no matter who tries to stand in your way. I whisper them to you because I know one day, after years of all my whispering, these thoughts will be ingrained in your brain as truth.
"You are strong."
When I was pregnant with you, your daddy and I were a newly married Army couple living in Alaska, and I felt lost amid a sea of strangers. I would marvel as you moved in my belly, and I would whisper, "You are strong." And the day you were born, we could instantly tell you were just that. You would (and still do) set your mind to things and always follow through. We revel in your strength.
"Yes, girl!"
Did you know that this started as a whisper? It happened the first time you sat up, and then again for each milestone after that. Now that you're a little older, I shout "YES, GIRL!" at an embarrassingly loud volume every time you do something at a gymnastics meet. I know it makes you cringe, but I want it to be something you hear in your thoughts as you get older. In your adult life, you will hear "No" far too often. That's just the way it goes. But at home, in our nest, you will hear as much "Yes, girl" encouragement as we can possibly provide.
"Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four Privet Drive, were proud to say they were perfectly normal, thank you very much."
Harry Potter has played such a huge role in the upbringing of you and your baby brothers. You, my girl, were the first to be treated to the entire series - I read them out loud to you as I rocked you in your glider and you drank a bottle. You would be drowsy but attentive as Hermione bossed those boys around and showed them what brains look like. I'd whisper in your ear that girls can be just as smart, and sometimes much smarter, than boys. I'd tell you, and still tell you, that you're just like Hermione.
"Take a deep breath."
In kindergarten, you started to realize that things are hard. School was hard, making and keeping friends was hard, and gymnastics was hard. There were many days when you arrived home and promptly burst into tears. I would hold you and whisper, "Take a deep breath." I never told you to stop crying, and I still never tell you not to cry, because you can! I feel so much pride when I see you take a deep breath and try something new. I'm also so proud of you for teaching this to your baby brothers. I have seen you calm two fussy babies by whispering sweetly to them to take deep breaths. They are so lucky to have you.
"Be kind, and ignore them."
Something girls with sisters learn early on is that girls can be jealous and mean when they want to be. I could tell you were shocked by other little girls when you arrived in the world of competitive gymnastics. And when you were in first grade, a few older girls told you your eyes were "poop-colored." I had never been so mad, but I told you to ignore them and to keep being kind. Don't let the haters bring you down.
"I love you."
I never knew I could love someone so much until you existed. When you were little and just wanted to be held, I would whisper, "I love you, little girl," over and over again. I tell you "I love you" as many times as I can during the day. I whisper it to you before you go to school, when you come home, when you leave for gymnastics, and when I check on you before I go to sleep. I also whisper it when you're not even near me. I just put it out into the universe and hope it finds its way to your heart.
These things I whisper will probably start to embarrass you in the next couple years, the years when being seen with Mom isn't the coolest thing in the world. But I promise to whisper them until I can't anymore, because even when you don't want to hear them, I still must tell you.
Love Always,
Mom
Trust Us: You Want These St. Ives K-Beauty-Inspired Cleansing Sticks in Your Gym Bag
Liquid skin care isn't going away anytime soon - in fact water-infused beauty was just named one of our hottest trends of 2018. But sometimes, life - or TSA guidelines - prohibits you from going the water route. Sure, it would be nice to fill your beauty bag with two cleansers, a toner, and a glycolic acid peel, but that's far from realistic. Luckily, St. Ives has just released on-the-go, liquid-less Cleansing Sticks ($10) - and you're going to want these tubes all over your life.
If you follow K-beauty, you're probably in the know about the cleansing stick trend. Over the past few years, we've seen a slew of sticks practically become an entire category of skin care. Aside from being travel safe, these chubbies are usually made of natural oils. As K-beauty guru and Soko Glam founder Charlotte Cho told us, this option "removes makeup really well and serves as an almost two-in-one double cleansing stick."
The creation of this St. Ives rinse eliminates the need for us to have to order such viral products online and wait for pesky shipping times. Now, we can just pick one of these up at the drugstore on the way to the gym, airport, or wherever we don't want to be bogged down with extra liquids.
There are three scents, and each targets different skin concerns. Matcha Green Tea & Ginger works as an acne-fighting detox that can also slough the sweat off your face after an intense workout.
Another option contains Cactus & Hibiscus, two plants that naturally hold tons of water. If your skin has become dry or damaged by Winter winds (runners, we're looking at you!), then this hydrating concoction is the ticket.
Finally, Apricot & Manuka Honey work together to brighten dull skin. Since Manuka honey contains a high concentrate of the astringent compound methylglyoxal, it has been used in countless clear-skin DIYs. Even Scarlett Johansson swears by the bee-produced ingredient. (Well, if it's good enough for Scar Jo . . .)
Plus, the sticks are packaged in bright colors (the Creamsicle orange of the Apricot & Manuka Honey option might make you hungry). So if you can't even with Winter, these cleansers are bound to make you smile.
Why Roseanne's Grandson Is One of the Most Refreshing Things About the Reboot
Come March 27, the Roseanne reboot will premiere on ABC, and it will feature a 9-year-old boy who "dresses as a girl" (as executive producer Sara Gilbert phrases it). Mark (played by Ames McNamara) is Darlene's son and Roseanne's grandson. According to Entertainment Weekly's initial report, "it would be wrong to assume the 9-year-old character is transitioning or is gay." While the first photos of the reboot don't offer a glimpse of the character, we do have a bit of insight into his role and how he'll play into the show as a whole.
In the interview, Gilbert elaborates on the nature of the character, who is new to the cast. "He's a little boy. He's based on a few kids in my life that are boys who dress in more traditionally feminine clothing," she explained. "He's too young to be gay, and he doesn't identify as transgender, but he just likes wearing that kind of clothing and that's where he is at this point in his life." While it may be tempting to label Mark with a specific sexuality or gender identity, I'd argue that this is the stronger choice, and it teaches both parents and kids an incredible lesson about self-exploration.
In this context, the Roseanne reboot has created space for a little boy who is figuring himself out. Mark may one day realize he is actually transgender. He may, later on, realize he is attracted to individuals of the same gender. But at this point, it's equally possible that he might continue to identify as male and realize he's heterosexual. To have him in a time in his life when he's trying to express himself outside of these labels speaks volumes. It tells other young viewers that they don't need to have all the answers and shouldn't rush to jump in a box. Instead, they should feel free to take their time and figure themselves out.
Gilbert said Mark's decision to wear "girl's clothing" is just "one element of the character . . . I don't want to pigeonhole him and say just because he dresses this way that's the only thing about him. He happens to dress that way but he's an amazing, creative, brilliant kid, which you will see." We are in a time where gender is more fluid than ever. In fact, I think part of the point of Mark's character is to rebel against the concept of gendered objects in the first place.
Why are Mark's clothes "girl's clothes" and not just clothes? I don't mean to suggest Gilbert is wrong to label them this way, because I think viewers will be tempted to do the same. I think Mark will challenge our perspective. Why do we apply this label to these clothes? And couldn't this logic extend into gendered toys, names, and even colors? Mark's way of expressing himself marks a new way to parent: without gender bias. It's something we haven't seen nearly enough yet, though documentaries like 2017's Raised Without Gender have certainly begun to scratch the surface. That's why having a character like Mark on such a nostalgic show, with a loyal following, on a huge network like ABC, is a really big deal.
This $4 Rose Gold Peel-Off Mask Works Just as Well as GlamGlow GravityMud
It looked like something out of a Victor Hugo novel: it was 15 degrees on a Monday night, and I was home, cuddling with my dog under a space heater to conserve warmth. My fridge was pretty much empty, but it was too frosty for me to morally feel OK with ordering takeout. That meant sustaining solely on pretzel Goldfish, walnuts, and a travel-size bottle of Pinot Noir. It was time for a face mask.
Luckily, like some sort of glam mafia member, I have a literal briefcase full of masks. I usually opt for that of the sheet variety, but when I want a peel-off treatment, I almost exclusively use GlamGlow GravityMud Firming Treatment ($34). I use it so much, in fact, that on the night in question, I was all out. Of course, leaving my apartment, or the five-foot radius surrounding my space heater, was out of the question. So I picked up a Masque Bar Rose Gold Foil Peel-Off Mask ($4, out Jan. 19).
There are three ways to empty this new goo onto your face. First, you could opt for squeezing the formula out of a tube, à la GravityMud. You could also use prefilled pods or sachet packaging. I chose the last option, because ripping open a plastic, rectangular sack of gunk to swipe over my face seemed easy enough.
I was nervous the single-use pack would have too little product, resulting in uneven application. Or it could have too much, which would leave me with a clogged bathroom sink and an angry roommmate. But when I started applying the sparkling pink formula, I was impressed with the amount. I found there was just enough to provide a clean, thick, uniform layer over my face.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Alaina Demopoulos
I threw on a vintage SVU episode from the glory days of Benson and Stabler and let the treatment do its work. Just like GlamGlow, I felt the mask firm the longer I left it on. After about 15 minutes - the exact amount of time the packaging said it would take - things felt congealed enough to peel off.
For me, the best part of a GlamGlow mask - aside from the wonder that puppy works on my face - is the fact that it all comes off in one full piece. So I took a few quick breaths and readied myself for a similarly clean removal. Well . . .
. . . that didn't happen. As you can see, it all flaked off into multiple pieces, covering my sink with rose gold goodness (sorry, roommate). It didn't worry me too much - I'd be more concerned if things weren't coming off and stayed stuck to my face. Despite the setback, it was easy enough to peel everything off. The more stubborn bits disappeared with just a little bit of micellar water.
After some redness subsided, I looked into the mirror and quite frankly felt a little bit aroused by the clear skin that was staring back at me. This mask left my cheeks looking soft enough to rival that of a baby kitten. (Full disclosure: I have never actually touched a baby kitten's face, but I assume it feels almost orgasmically supple). Plus, on a day that would chill even my icy soul, everything felt superhydrated and healthy.
The ingredient that makes this mask work so well is a simple one. Witch hazel water, which you probably used as a toner in high school, works to pull oil off of the face, shrink pores, and serves as an astringent to prevent future breakouts. That's assisted by soybean and mushroom extract, both proven to nourish and rejuvenate skin.
I'll be stocking my mask suitcase full of this rose gold option, and luckily, that won't cost me my life's savings. And that's good, because I probably have like $27 to my name right now. You can try this drugstore fabulousness for yourself when it drops on Jan. 19.
Ulta Is Having a Sale on Skin Care All January, Including 43 Amazing Products!
Your New Year's resolution for clear skin just got a lot easier to keep. That's because every day from Jan. 7-27, Ulta is offering 50 percent off skincare staples that target every issue you can think of. Whether you want to get your hands on a Mario Badescu Drying Mask for crazy cheap, need a soothing Shiseido eye mask for an upcoming trip, or just want to cop a Lancome makeup remover for less than the price of your lunch, you'll probably find your next holy grail product this month.
But remember: the special price only lasts one day, and the offers change every 24 hours. So consider this your road map to the sale. Ahead, you'll find every product and its corresponding day, so be sure to set those calendar alerts!
Enabling This Feature on Your Amazon Echo Device Could Save Your Life
Alexa is capable of many things, including helping you with your fitness goals and getting you more organized, but there is one thing she can't do. She cannot call 911 for you in the case of an emergency. You can only communicate with those in your contacts who have their own Amazon Echo device or via the Alexa app.
However, there is a potentially life-saving skill that every Echo-device owner should enable ASAP: Ask My Buddy. Ask My Buddy is a free service on Amazon Echo and Google Home platforms that can alert anyone in your Personal Alert Network any time you need help. If your phone is out of reach and you need urgent assistance, simply say "Alexa (or "Hey Google"), Ask My Buddy to alert James," "Alexa, Ask My Buddy to send help," or "Alexa, Ask My Buddy to alert everyone." Alexa will then immediately send a text, email, and even voice call to your contact or everyone on your list alerting them to check on you right away.
This feature is a great backup for seniors, people with disabilities, and individuals who live alone. To get started, pull up your Alexa app and tap on "Skills" in the menu drop down. Search "Ask My Buddy" and enable. You will then be redirected to Ask My Buddy's site to create an account and add up to five contacts to your Personal Alert Network.
Though Ask My Buddy is not a substitute for 911, it can give you peace of mind knowing that help is nearby. You never know when you'll need it!
Behold, the Most Hated Comment in Reddit History
I will always be the first to admit that a lot of what I consume on the internet is a direct result of what I see being upvoted on Reddit. If you're not familiar with the phrase, upvoting is the equivalent of "liking" something on Facebook or "faving" something on Twitter - with the ultimate goal being not just the crowd's approval, but to land your post at the top of the Reddit charts and onto the so-called front page of the internet. That being said, despite making several trips to Reddit.com every hour of every day for the last several years, I rarely come across a post that gained attention not because of the number of upvotes that it garnered, but because so many people gave it a negative rating (or, more colloquially, downvoted it).
But that all changed on Nov. 12, when Electronic Arts (EA) decided to respond to some user criticism of the forthcoming Star Wars Battlefront II.
The title of Reddit user MBMMaverick's post is "Seriously? I paid 80$ to have Vader locked?" and reflects a sincere sense of dissatisfaction with the price paid for the forthcoming game. "This is a joke. I'll be contacting EA support for a refund . . . " the user writes, adding, "I can't even playing f*cking Darth Vader?!?!? Disgusting. This age of 'micro-transactions' has gone WAY too far. Leave it to EA though to stretch the boundaries." A little strong, perhaps - but certainly not anything too controversial. If I had a quarter for every time someone said a video game was overpriced . . . well, you get the idea. Anyway, the response from EA was swift and straight to the point:
Unfortunately for the gaming giant, Reddit is never the right forum for customer service jargon. As such, the post has racked up an absolutely staggering 443,000 downvotes in the span of a single day, with thousands more voting it down with each passing hour. For context, it's worth noting that the previous record holder for most downvoted comment on Reddit clocked in at a mere 24,333 downvotes - and it happened to be a comment that was explicitly asking Reddit users to click the downvote button. Literally.
Suffice it to say, EA is now unquestionably the company behind the most hated post in Reddit history, and we're willing to bet that it wasn't the record that it hoped it'd be breaking with the release of the first Star Wars game in years. The moral of this story? If you don't have anything nice to say, you probably shouldn't say anything at all - and you definitely shouldn't say it in a Reddit forum.
Turn Your Tiny Bathroom Into an Organized Oasis
There's nothing worse than having one of those pedestal sinks that has no counter space - it can really make your morning routine a challenge. Aside from tiny countertops, sometimes having a smaller-sized bathroom makes it hard to keep all your products in place and looking neat. Luckily, there are so many cool hacks and storage items to make life easier. The Urban Outfitters home department always has the newest and cutest products, especially when it comes to its bathroom accessories. Check out some of our top picks that will make you fall in love with your space again.
11 Time-Saving Cleaning Products House Cleaners Swear By
Whether you've mastered this list of daily cleaning habits or avoid housework like the plague, everyone can use tips for making cleaning just a little bit easier. Spring cleaning is a great opportunity to get to those spots you've been avoiding for the past 12 months, but the last thing you want to do is spend your entire weekend tirelessly scrubbing your home.
Enter Merry Maids home cleaning expert Debra Johnson. She shares with us some of her favorite tricks and products that can make even the most tedious cleaning tasks quick and painless.
19 Hilarious Examples of What "Netflix and Chill" Really Means
The teens did it again - the slang term "Netflix and chill" is blowing up on the Internet with priceless memes, Vines, and other hilarious reactions. While its origins date back all the way to 2007, it's only now becoming part of mainstream vocabulary, including among those who aren't young and in college.
In case you need a refresher or simply don't know, the phrase is a euphemism for hooking up. If you still don't get it, look ahead to see how people are using it online. Soon enough, you too will start asking someone to watch Netflix and chill - if you haven't already.
16 Things You Didn't Know About Fixer Upper's Chip and Joanna Gaines
Chip and Joanna Gaines, the husband-and-wife team behind HGTV's hit show Fixer Upper, couldn't be more compatible. He's a real estate and construction pro who knows how to turn an affordable but "blah" house into a sparkling gem, and she's a designer with an eye for shabby chic flea market finds. Together, they own and operate Magnolia - and raise four kids. We took a break from watching Chip and Joanna help families purchase and renovate their dream homes on the small screen to talk to the couple in real life. What we learned made us love them even more. Read on for 16 adorable facts about the Gaineses.
33 Designer-Worthy DIYs For a Polished Home
There are few things that are as satisfying as pulling off a successful DIY project, especially when a guest asks where you purchased it. We've rounded up 50+ of our favorite tutorials that show you how to organize, entertain, and decorate with style, without spending a fortune. So, roll up your sleeves and get cracking! You can do it.
The Highs and Lows of Being an Idealist
There are two kinds of people in this world: those who don't care what people think of them and those who do. As much as I hate to admit it, I fall in the latter camp. I'm terribly self-conscious and always worry about how I'm coming across to others or what they really think of me.
Sound a bit paranoid? Welcome to the life (or should I say mind) of an idealist. We're a breed of people who see the world as what it could be rather than what it really is. Because, in an ideal world, people wouldn't think you're too uptight, too timid, or too boring. In an ideal world, there's no reason you shouldn't have that dream job, dream home, or dream partner. I'm an idealist to the core, and while it definitely has some advantages in life, it can also be incredibly trying. Below are the most common ups and downs of wanting everything to be better.
Lows
- Love (or lack thereof) hurts. I can't even count the amount of times I've shied away from what could've been a great relationship all because something about the guy wasn't what I hoped it'd be and I just couldn't live with it. Sometimes I'm too scared to give someone a chance for fear I'll end up falling for someone that doesn't fit the bill. I mean, this is a partner we're talking about; they've got to be the cream of the crop, right? (Otherwise, what will people think?!) A very unhealthy attitude to have, I know.
- You're a chronic overthinker - from wondering if your boss actually took that comment the wrong way to whether it seems like you're trying too hard by wearing a particular outfit. Sometimes it's as if everyone's out to get you.
- It's hard to let go. When you're faced with a less-than-perfect outcome for something, it can be seriously hard to accept it and move on. I always end up being overly engrossed with the how and the why, refusing to believe that a certain crappy situation is, in fact, real. My parents learned early on they have to give it to me straight: "Not everything is rainbows and unicorns."
- You are your own worst critic. When it comes to standards, yours are way up there. Because of these high expectations, you end up not having a lot of confidence in yourself. Sometimes you set yourself up to fail.
- You can be on the reserved side. It's important that others think well of you, so you take care in what you say and do and tend to be more of an internalizer. It's helpful when you actually need to bite your tongue, but in other situations, not so much.
Highs
- You get the best because you don't settle. There's always an article that could've been written better, a grade that can be one-upped, or more thought that could've gone into that project. You have incredible work ethic, and this keeps you on your A game at school and work. When it comes to relationships, you'll (hopefully) end up with someone amazing you love to pieces, because mediocre just won't cut it.
- It makes you a very caring person. Happiness is a top priority for everyone you know. When people are unhappy, you feel unhappy, so if something is somehow getting someone down, you do your best to help find a solution to fix it, fast.
- You have better friends. Something I've realized as I've gotten older is how much I've come to value meaningful, authentic relationships over knowing as many people as possible. Knowing you have a close circle of people that have your back and who you can talk to about anything is incredibly comforting and something to strive for.
- You fight for what you believe in. Dedication and willpower are big driving forces in your life, and once you put your mind to something, there's little that can stop you.
- You dream big - and then some. You're not afraid to aim high, and your mind is a minefield of possibilities of what could be, both professionally and personally. Dr. Seuss said it best: "Oh, the places you'll go!"
Say Goodbye to Surge Pricing Forever With This 1 Uber Feature
Once again, Uber is coming through with the perfect new feature for the holiday season - but it just so happens that this year, it's the feature we've been dreaming of for all these years. Never again do you have to stick around at that party for just a little bit longer in order to get the pricing down just a teeny-tiny bit, and you can completely forget about cutting your airport arrival horridly close in order to save a couple bucks - you can now officially beat the holiday surge by scheduling your ride in advance and locking in an upfront fare. The new feature works for scheduling rides that are between 60 minutes to 30 days in advance and will be rolled out to major cities across the US in the next week.
"The holiday season is always a stressful and busy time of year for travelers - whether they're rushing to make an early flight or heading to a holiday party," said Uber product marketing manager Alana Epstein, in a statement provided exclusively to POPSUGAR. "That's why we're introducing upfront fares for scheduled rides. Now, you'll always see the price ahead of time when you schedule at least an hour in advance, which ensures a care-free travel experience and no surprises on availability or fare."
To get started with scheduling out your holiday, tap "Where to?" as you normally would, select a date and time at least 60 minutes in advance, add in your pickup and drop-off locations, and voila! Before your very eyes will be an upfront, hassle-and-surge-free price. Keep in mind that adding in any additional stops will likely affect your final price, and of course, the ride is subject to additional fees if there are delays.
So, what are you waiting for? Get those rides booked now for optimal savings, and we promise your bank account will thank you come January.
Wow, the Honeymoon Capital of the World Is Trashed and Abandoned - See the Creepy Photos
The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania had been considered to be the "Honeymoon Capital of the World" for decades, but in the 1990s, hotels in the area started closing down. Soon enough, the romantic getaway spot turned into an abandoned area that's downright chilling. Photojournalist Seph Lawless documented many of the resorts in the area after their demise.
The Penn Hills Resort and Summit Resort are particularly spine-tingling. Check out some of Seph's fascinating video and photos. Wouldn't it be creepy to visit these places? It's amazing how they've been left like this.
These 37 Small Quote Tattoos Will Help You Follow BIG Dreams
Sometimes all it takes is just a little inspiration to help you make big moves. Inspiring words can motivate you - and there's no better way to remind yourself daily than with tattoos that will stand the test of time. We rounded up small and subtle quote tattoos that will change your life for the better.
24 Fun and Frugal Bachelorette Party Destinations
The bachelorette party is one of the many fun traditions that the bride-to-be generally partakes in - it's essential to get together with some of your girlfriends and spend some quality time before the big day. Lonely Planet travel experts Heather Dickson and Emily Matchar weighed in on the must-visit vacation spots that will give you a bang for your bachelorette bucks.
How to Create a Wedding Hashtag No One Else Will Have
Image Source: Brooke Images
There are some brides who ask guests to unplug at their wedding, and some who ask guests to go all out with the photo snapping and sharing. If you're the second type of bride, you're probably already brainstorming your wedding hashtag - you know, the one phrase that guests will use on Instagram and Twitter to round up pictures of your big day. Instead of the more standard conventions you've probably seen all over the place, we bring you 21 unique, creative ideas you haven't thought of. Of course, replace them with your own names, initials, wedding locations, and such to make them special to your big day.
What's the best one you've seen? Let us know!
1. #HappilyEverHarrison
2. #RuizPartyof2
3. #ThatOneMalibuWedding
4. #Newlywedsontheblock
5. #SeanandCassGetHitched
6. #TomKat, #Bennifer, or any other celebrified combo
7. #MrandMrBaker
8. #TimandAnneinWonderland
9. #WeSaidIDoOnJune2
10. #KristenLovesJustin
Image Source: SMS Photography
11. #SmithNoMore*
12. #LauBeachBash
13. #ThisisOurWeddingHashtag
14. #StokedtobeaHorowitz*
15. #TwasaGoodKnight
16. #WeCameWeSawWeWed
17. #SamandNicoleKissandTell
18. #JessandTimTietheKnot
19. #KylieWedsCara
20. #AdventuresofJuanandCelina
21. #TandGForBestWeddingEver
*Maybe better for a bachelor/bachelorette party than a wedding?
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