Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
lundi 5 mars 2018
Why Frances McDormand Mentioned Inclusion Riders on the Oscars Stage
Frances McDormand literally brought the audience to their feet during Sunday night's Oscars in LA. After winning the best actress award for her transformative performance in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, McDormand did an incredible thing: she told all the night's female nominees to proudly stand up together. The gesture was meant to convey the power of female storytelling, as well as the need for even more female voices in Hollywood. Then, to close out her speech, McDormand ended with two mysterious words: "inclusion rider."
An inclusion rider is basically a stipulation in an actor's or actress's contract that requires a project to assemble a diverse group of people, both on screen and behind the scenes. Whether it's a little-known secret that's been around for years or a relatively new kind of negotiation is not totally clear. What is clear, however, is that plenty of people don't know about it. Frances McDormand made that much clearer to us backstage in the Oscars press room.
"We're not going back. . . . It changes now."
"I just found out about this last week. There has always been available to everybody that does a negotiation on a film an inclusion rider, which means you can ask for and/or demand at least 50 percent diversity in the casting for the cast and the crew," she said. "And so, the fact that I just learned that after 35 years of being in the film business? We're not going back." This revelation alone makes McDormand's acceptance speech special. If she hadn't heard about it in her 35 years in Hollywood, how many other people were equally oblivious? In that moment, she was bringing awareness to a whole room of powerful people.
Of course, McDormand ended her answer in a moment that made the whole press room erupt in applause. She acknowledged that by speaking those two words, she was ensuring a massive impact moving forward. "So, the whole idea of women 'trending'?" she asked. "No. No trending. African-Americans 'trending'? No trending. It changes now. And I think the inclusion rider will have something to do with that."
Everything We Know About Frances McDormand and Joel Coen's Son, Pedro
Frances McDormand just took home her second Academy Award for her heartbreaking and powerful performance in the critically acclaimed Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. In her acceptance speech, she thanked her husband, Joel Coen, and their son, Pedro, saying, "These two stalwart individuals were well raised by their feminist mothers. They value themselves, each other, and those around them. I know you are proud of me, and that fills me with everlasting joy." Pedro's childhood experiences - believe it or not - actually helped her prepare for her role as the grieving and enraged mother wreaking havoc on a town for the unsolved investigation of her daughter's murder.
We may not know much about McDormand's son, but the way in which his mother talks about him and her own experiences in motherhood strikes a chord in all of us.
- Pedro is the adopted son of McDormand and Coen.
When he was just a 6 months old, McDormand - who also came from an adoptive family - and Coen adopted Pedro in 1995 from Paraguay. In fact, adopting him had her considering penning a book on adoption, given her own experiences of being adopted by a Disciples of Christ minister and his wife. - McDormand has been known to be very protective of her son.
In a 2003 New York Times profile, McDormand said she disliked when people would come up to her for pictures and autographs when she was with Pedro because they completely ignored him in the process. She also tried to take on a lesser workload by limiting herself to a movie and play per year so she could focus more on raising her son. - Pedro is a personal trainer and massage therapist.
While his parents are hotshots in Hollywood, their son decided to go in another route. According to Woman's World, he's a certified massage therapist and trainer. - Pedro became a major inspiration for McDormand in preparing for Three Billboards.
In an interview with Belfast Telegraph, McDormand explained that Mildred's anger as a mother resonated with her because "as a parent, you also come to see how the worry and the anxiety that goes along with protecting someone who you give yourself to in that way - that you surrender to - can become degenerative." She went on to elaborate on how holding her son for the first time made her realize how high the stakes were in keeping him alive, and she tapped into that fierce sense of protection for her character.
Emma Stone, an Icon, Brilliantly Calls Out Lack of Female Best Director Nominees at Oscars
Emma Stone is the latest actress to brilliantly call out this award season's lack of female-nominated directors. Seemingly taking a page out of Natalie Portman's book, the Oscar winner made a jab at the Academy when she presented the nominees for best director. "These four men and Greta Gerwig created their own masterpieces this year," she told the crowd. Even though the Lady Bird director didn't end up taking home the award (it went to The Shape of Water's Guillermo del Toro instead), we can't help but applaud Emma for throwing shade at Hollywood's sexism.
Meryl and Nicole Linked Up at the Oscars - Do You Think They Shared Big Little Lies Secrets?
In case you haven't heard yet, Meryl Streep was recently confirmed to star in season two of HBO's hit Big Little Lies. The actress is set to play Mary Louise Wright, the mother of Alexander Skarsgard's character Perry Wright, and on Sunday, Meryl had an adorable reunion with her onscreen daughter-in-law Nicole Kidman (Celeste Wright) at the Oscars. The two ladies were spotted chatting in the audience - do you think they whispered BLL secrets?
Not much is known about Meryl's character yet, other than that she's "concerned for the well-being of her grandchildren," so we'll just have to wait until the series returns in 2019 to find out. In the meantime, we'll just be over here obsessing over this adorable moment.
Snapchat's New Filters Turn the Sky Into Stunning Masterpieces
Say goodbye to those cliched Snaps of sunsets and cloudless skies: with Snapchat's new sky filters, you can add a rainbow, make it a starry night, or create a beautiful sunset on any photo you take. The new feature is yet another example of the company being innovative in using augmented reality to enhance your everyday world.
To use the new filters, just take a photo that includes the sky. Snapchat will automatically detect the photo has the sky in the background and will let you swipe through to find a sky filter. You can expect to first see filters like a starry night or stormy clouds, but just like the 3D Bitmoji, these will change daily. The feature started rolling out to iOS and Android users on Sept. 25.
Unlike 3D World Lenses, you don't need to tap the screen to activate the filters - they just show up, like how the altitude, speed, time, and geofilters already do. Ahead, see some of the filters we've been able to play around with, then give them a try on your phone.
A Catholic Nun Perfectly Explains the Major Hypocrisy of the "Pro-Life" Argument
A Catholic nun's explanation of the term "pro-life" from 2004 is resurfacing - and it's powerful. On PBS's Now With Bill Moyers, Sister Joan Chittister explained why being against abortion doesn't mean you're pro-life.
Here's the full quote:
"I do not believe that just because you're opposed to abortion that that makes you pro-life. In fact, I think in many cases, your morality is deeply lacking if all you want is a child born but not a child fed, not a child educated, not a child housed. And why would I think that you don't? Because you don't want any tax money to go there. That's not pro-life. That's pro-birth. We need a much broader conversation on what the morality of pro-life is."
Chittister's position is not only informed by her faith, but also her academic experience: she's written over 50 books and has multiple degrees (including a doctorate).
The crux of Chittister's point is that there's a difference between advocating for birth and advocating for that child's entire life. If antiabortion proponents are truly "pro-life," then those same legislators would not argue for defunding programs like those that provide school lunches or health care. Many who oppose abortion also oppose access to contraceptives. Antiabortion congressmen have consistently also advocated for defunding Planned Parenthood, which provides women with birth control options.
Liberals have pointed to Chittister's quote as an argument for the social benefits that Republicans hope to limit without providing feasible options for women if they cannot obtain abortions.
Celebs Are Sharing Their Google Arts & Culture Face Matches, and Oh My Gosh
Unless you've been living under a rock, you've likely come across a few (OK, dozens) of social media posts about Google's Arts & Culture app. Though the app was originally created so users could admire famous artworks at their fingertips, a brand-new feature has the internet up in arms: one that allows you to see your portrait painting doppelgängers in a matter of seconds.
So how exactly does this newly viral tool work? All you have to do is download the Google Arts & Culture app from either Google Play or the iTunes store, and scroll until you see the "Is your portrait in a museum?" feature, which prompts you to snap a quick selfie. Once it receives your snapshot, the app sifts through the thousands of artworks in its database and matches your face to a collection of supposedly similar paintings in side-by-side collages, along with the exact percentage of how much the two images resemble each other. Some are pretty spot on, while others are, er, a bit off, to say the least.
The app is pretty darn hysterical, especially because it'll match you with different portraits if you make a funny face in your selfie. As soon as people started catching wind of the addicting feature, a snowball effect took place, and seemingly the entire internet began sharing their artistic look-alikes - including celebrities. In case you need some motivation to finally delete some photos to free up space on your phone for the Google Arts & Culture app, allow these hilarious celeb 'grams and tweets to convince you.
Prepare to Spit Out Your Water When You Hear What These Men Think About Birth Control
A recent study is causing quite the uproar, and once you learn about its findings, you'll likely want to scream in frustration, too. PerryUndem, a non-partisan public opinion research firm, surveyed slightly more than 1,000 registered voters nationwide about contraceptives and the policies that surround them. One statistic in particular really stood out among the rest.
Only 37 percent of men noted that they had benefitted personally from women having access to affordable birth control. Allow me to repeat that: only 37 percent. That meant a whopping 52 percent of men who stated they did not personally benefit from the presence of affordable birth control (with the other remaining percentage saying they were unsure about the matter or refusing to answer).
Apparently these men are unable to comprehend how many babies they could have potentially had roaming the earth if it weren't for birth control. As news of this survey's particularly ludicrous finding spread across social media, so did the plethora of disgusted reactions from people who couldn't seem to wrap their heads around the absurdity of it all. Check out their reactions ahead.
Nope, You're Not Crazy - Your Bitmoji on Snapchat's Snap Map Do Change
If you can't stop opening up Snapchat and checking in on Snap Map, we don't blame you. The feature, which offers a fun, instant way to check in on what your friends are up to, is quickly becoming addictive. And with Bitmoji on the map, it's hard not to check back often. The Bitmoji (now called Actionmoji) on the map will change and show up riding in cars and airplanes or taking part in activities like building a sandcastle on the beach.
The Actionmoji change depending on a variety of factors, like your location, time of day, and how fast you're traveling. Most of the time, you'll see your Actionmoji simply standing wherever you are. But if you're near an airport, you might see yourself in a plane. Driving? You'll suddenly be in a car on Snap Map as well.
Ahead, see some of the Actionmoji we've spotted so far, and then try to get them yourself. And remember: you can control who can and cannot see your location on Snap Map, and if you don't open the app for a few hours, your Actionmoji will disappear off the map.
25 Awesome Experiences Today's Kids Will Never Understand
Some children alive today have never used a phone with buttons or a bulky computer. The internet has been available to the public for more than 20 years.
If those facts don't make you feel old, think about this: most of your favorite childhood activities have become completely obsolete thanks to modern technology! Today's kids will never experience the glories of Game Boy, a VCR, a boombox, or even a physical encyclopedia. Whether they're better off gone or you'll think back with fondness, let's remember these 25 childhood experiences that technology has made extinct.
15 Easy Ways to Make an Old Home Look Like New
This past weekend, my husband and I moved from the 94-year-old home we've been renting in the Berkeley Hills to a 58-year-old home around the corner. I have always had a soft spot for old homes - the architecture, the charm, the doorknobs! - but they definitely come with their quirks. Love 'em or hate 'em - if you're living in an old house, you know there are some issues to contend with. Read on to find a list of 15 (relatively) quick fixes to make your old home feel new again.
49 International Disney Park Differences Only Hardcore Fans Will Notice
If you're a Disney fan, you've undoubtedly made the pilgrimage to Disneyland or Walt Disney World at some point in your life. Upon opening Disneyland (the original Disney park in Anaheim, CA) in 1955, the wildly successful mass-media corporation became a staple in more than just family movies - its theme park topped the bucket lists of travelers worldwide. Disney mania couldn't be contained when parks eventually opened in Florida, Japan, France, and Hong Kong. Today, there is construction on a sixth park: Shanghai Disney. While every Disney park maintains a similar atmosphere, the magic feeling at each location is totally unique. Take a look at the features that make each Disney resort special, and then decide for yourself which is truly the "happiest place on earth."
You'll Know You're a "Real" Adult When You Accept These 25 Truths
I'm a firm believer in tough love. When it comes to figuring things out, I take the "sink or swim" approach, and even if it seems a bit harsh at the time, in the long run it usually means people come out better and stronger for it. There are some valuable life lessons to be learned that are easier pills to swallow than others - here are some brutally honest ones.
1. Life's tough. Get a helmet.
Relationships fail, people can be jerks, you can't always get what you want, and at some point in your life, you will have to stand outside in the pouring rain without an umbrella. Accept the fact that life isn't always easy, but draw strength from the knowledge that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and the hard stuff makes you appreciate the good things even more.
2. If you want to play hard, you really do have to work hard.
It's a trade-off, so deal with it. If it's any consolation, it's usually worth it.
3. If you f*ck up, it's your responsibility to fix it.
You're not a kid anymore, and no one is going to run behind you with a broom sweeping up your messes - nor should they. If you make a mistake, it's your obligation to rectify the mistake. As long as you're willing to admit it and embrace the consequences as yours and yours alone, then it's totally within your capabilities to make things right, too.
4. Your driver's license photo will never, ever be flattering.
Unwritten law of the universe: Any remotely attractive photo taken of a person getting their license will be secretly and immediately destroyed. The picture will be retaken until the end result is nothing short of cringeworthy.
5. Sometimes you have to give people the benefit of the doubt.
Some people don't even always deserve it. And it's never easy to do. And sometimes you give someone the benefit of the doubt, and it ends up blowing up in your face. But the best thing ever is when you give someone a chance, reserve your judgement, and realize there's a damn good reason for the way they are. You will definitely learn something more about them in the process, and you will probably figure some stuff out about yourself too.
6. You have control over your life.
Scary, right? The control you have over what happens to you can be both liberating and utterly terrifying. Do with it what you will - but you are the puppet master of your own play, so make it interesting, make it good, and make it something you can be proud of.
7. Making compromises is a good thing. Compromising yourself is NOT.
There's a fine line between changing your mind and changing who you are. Toe it with caution, and remember that nothing is worth compromising your core beliefs, even if it may seem like it will make your life easier at the time.
8. Success is just about perception.
You (and only you) can determine what success really means, because it differs from person to person. Maybe some days success is just making it out of bed, maybe other days it's parachuting out of plane. You get to decide.
9. Some people are just big assh*les.
And there's nothing you can do about it, so don't try. The good news is that the world is also full of really amazing people, too. So hang on to the good ones really tightly, and forget about the rest.
10. School doesn't come close to teaching you everything you need to know.
About life, that is. It's obviously valuable for countless logical reasons - getting a degree, broadening your horizons, teaching you how to fill in a tiny circle by the letters "A, B, C, or D," etc., etc. Still, it's just a tip of the iceberg and once you've left your 20s behind, it's easier to place your education in the box where it belongs and continue checking off other ones that aren't yet complete.
11. Love isn't just a feeling, it's a choice you make.
The older you get, the more complicated your relationships become. It's easy to fall in love, but it isn't always easy to stay in the same place you fell. Love is a choice you make every day, to love or not to love, to try or not to try, to work at it or not to work at it.
12. You can't help someone who doesn't want to be helped.
Sometimes you are fighting a losing battle with a person, and the best thing you can is bow out of the situation. As you get older, you get better at knowing when to recognize this and at making the (difficult) choice of just letting go.
13. Money won't solve your problems.
Money isn't magical. It can help with some of the more immediate problems, true, but you have to work through the real sh*t to be happy in life, and those things, more often than not, aren't money-related.
14. You are not the center of the universe.
Your problems are real, but they are not the only problems. Everyone lives in their own worlds, but it's essential to understand and acknowledge all the other worlds around you. It helps keeps things in perspective.
15. Things are rarely as cool as they seem.
No matter how big people talk, things rarely live up to the hype. But sometimes you have to weed through the mediocre to get to the really good stuff, so never shy away from a new opportunity. Approach new experiences with the expectations of a realist, but the hopes of an idealist.
16. You can't make everybody happy.
You can't make everybody happy, so don't even try. The harder you to try to please people, the more you forget to focus on your own happiness - and your happiness matters! Be kind, be considerate, but know that not everyone is going to like what you do or say, or even who you are, and that's totally OK.
17. Sometimes you have to put yourself first.
Thinking of yourself first isn't necessarily synonymous with being selfish. Sometimes your immediate needs or wants take precedence over someone else's - and there's nothing wrong with that. The key is knowing how to recognize when and where to exercise this luxury.
18. Jealousy is a huge waste of time.
Someone is always going to have something you want, and you're always going to have something someone else wants. See the conundrum here? The grass isn't always greener, and worrying about what could be will drive you insane.
19. Change is good. Sometimes.
All change is not bad change, even if it's ridiculously hard at first. Still, don't feel bad if you hate it, because it's not always right, and change for the sake of change is not always a good enough reason to make big moves.
20. You're not getting any younger.
You're not getting any younger, and your bucket list isn't getting any shorter. Start crossing sh*t off, like, now.
21. Sometimes you just don't have the answers.
You don't always know if what you're doing is right. We're all just winging it most of the time anyway, so at the very least, it should be a comfort knowing that even if you're clueless, you're not alone.
22. It's never too late to change.
Though your 20s are arguably the decade you grow and change the most, it doesn't mean that you are done becoming who you ultimately want to be when you leave them. Nobody's perfect, and we should all be open to change. If there's something you don't like, there's always time to do what you need to do to get to a place where you really love yourself.
23. Even if you have "more important" things to do, you NEED to get a good night's sleep.
Don't be a hero. You can't always be that young college student cramming for a test, and pulling an all-nighter will probably do more harm than good in the long run. Sleep. The world will not end if you do.
24. You can't have it all.
You can have A LOT! You can have amazing things, you can do almost anything, and your life can be what you make it. But you can't have it ALL - no one can. So aim high, but not so high that you make yourself miserable trying to live up to unattainable expectations.
25. The only time you should look back is to see just how far you've come.
You're probably doing better than you think you are. When you see analyze things microscopically, you'll probably find a lot more wrong than if you take a step back, look at the big picture, and see all you've accomplished.
15 Things Depression Will Tell You That Are Actually Horrible Lies
For those suffering from depression, it can often feel like nothing will ever get better and nobody will ever understand. My personal bouts consist of oversleeping, undereating, shutting down at inappropriate times, disconnecting or isolating myself from the people I care about in an effort "not to burden them," and generally being a challenging person to deal with and get through to.
I think about all the ways depression (and its sh*tty second cousin, anxiety) have made a home in me; like a devil on either shoulder, telling me I don't deserve the things I want, the people I love don't love me back, and the roads to healthy relationships and self-confidence will always be closed for construction. But one of the things I can bring to my decades-long odyssey with mental illness (besides, you know, medication and therapy) is a wry, malapropos sense of humor - because sometimes, it really does seem like there is nothing else. That being said, here are some text messages I just know I'd get from my depression if it could fit its grubby little hands around a cell phone (and if I actually gave it my number).
- It's honestly so crazy to me that you have friends. Isn't that crazy to you?
- You realize nobody like, actually likes you, right? Try looking up "tolerate" in the dictionary, hun.
- They "just want you to be happy?" LOL, you don't really believe that, do you?
- Yeah, that dude is WAY out of your league. Cute that you thought he'd be into you, though.
- Don't you think you're being a little too . . . I dunno . . . happy right now? Snap out of it, girl. It's not always about you!
- Isn't Pinterest so inspiring? It's like, all the things you'll never have and don't deserve, but in one handy place. You should check it multiple times a day!
- You really are better off just keeping your head down, getting your work done, and going home. Nobody will notice because nobody cares!
- You really are better off just saying you're tired, turning down the invite, and staying home. Nobody will notice because nobody cares!
- Wait, you tried to explain our relationship to someone?! I bet you cried! Way to go. Have fun looking insane.
- OMG, my vacay was amazing. Looks like you had a fun couple of weeks without me but I'm so glad to be back - aren't you so glad I'm back?
- Did that doctor just call me "severe?" Way harsh, Tai.
- Hey, we have that 11 hours of sleep that we really need to get to. So what the sun's still out? Seems like the sun's problem.
- Um, Anxiety just told me you were awake half the night thinking about how f*cked up your life is and didn't get the 11 hours of sleep we need to function. Care to explain?
- Wait, who told you your life was f*cked up? Not me, I hope.
- Dude, you're so dramatic. You'll be fiiiine. When have I ever lied to you?
12 of the Best European Vacations to Take With Toddlers
When you have kids, your dreams of traveling the world, seeing exotic places, and tasting different foods can sometimes be narrowed down to Disney World, the nearest water park, and your kids' leftover PB&J. While those trips are just as fun, you might still have a European bucket list you long to complete. The exquisite works of art, cobblestone streets, and 9 p.m. dinners seem best suited for a romantic getaway, but there are actually tons of places across the pond that are ideal for the whole family. And best of all: these adventures don't need to break the bank. Yes, plane ticket to Europe can be pricey, but toddlers can sit on a parent or caregiver's lap (only paying tax; usually about 10 percent of the full ticket price) until the age of 2. In addition, certain airlines, like Scandinavian Airlines, have child tickets that are less expensive than a full price ticket.
Of course, when you travel with tots, you may need to readjust your expectations about what a Euro vacation means - au revoir, late night glass of Champagne at a romantic cafe (unless, of course, you book a babysitter), and hello, splash pads, playgrounds, and hunting down the best picnic spots in town. But the following destinations have something for everyone in the family. There's history, romance, and adventure for you, with enough play space and activities to delight your kids. Keep reading for 12 of the best European destinations for traveling with toddlers.
dimanche 4 mars 2018
5 Things That Make Your Boobs Appear Bigger
We're all about owning your breasts and body, no matter the size, but if you'd love to see more cleavage on yourself, there are some short-term tricks to having a perkier chest.
1. Working Out Your Chest Wall
You might be thinking, "Oww!" while you work out, but you'll be thinking, "Wow!" in no time if you stick to bust-boosting exercises. "The breast tissue will not increase from your workouts, but if what you want is the appearance of a bigger chest, you can build up the muscle wall to create the illusion of a bigger bust," says Rebecca Gahan, CPT and owner and founder of Kick@55 Fitness in Chicago.
Next time you hit the gym, devote some time to push-ups. "They work the chest muscles to make your chest wall larger," says Gahan. They're so effective because they "activate multiple areas of the chest, all in one movement, while supporting your full bodyweight," she adds. For best results, mix up diamond, lateral, traveling, and even tricep push-ups and do "three sets of 20 reps at the beginning of a workout and the same amount at the end. Include this combo in a minimum of three weekly workouts."
Chest flys are another great exercise to try. "Sit on a bench in an incline position, with your feet on the ground. Extend your arms out to the side while holding dumbbells heavy enough that you cannot complete more than 15 reps in one set," Gahan says. "As if you are spreading your wings, keep your arms slightly bent as you bring the dumbbells together, without letting them touch right in front of your chest." Do three sets of 15 reps twice a week.
The last exercise in the trifecta of chest-building moves is the chest press. "Sit on a bench in a flat position, with your feet on the floor. Lower a barbell with weights (heavy enough that you cannot complete more than 15 reps) to your chest line and extend your arms until they are straight but not locked," Gahan says. Aim for three sets of 15 reps twice a week.
2. Having Sex or Masturbating
That vibrator won't just better your orgasms - it'll better your breasts, too. If you're going solo or you have an SO, taking some time for pleasure will temporarily enhance your chest size.
"Arousal will inevitably spike the heart rate, which will increase blood flow to various parts of the body. "Any sort of arousal will pump blood to the boobs, which can make them look fuller and larger - and, yes, this includes masturbation - but the effect is only fleeting and temporary, and results may vary in terms of size. Don't expect too much of a change! Once you've cooled down, so will your boobs," says Hayley Ellis, a women's health expert and nutritionist at Maple Holistics.
3. Eating Phytoestrogen Foods
Experts say there are foods that are capable of contributing to an increase in breast size. "When going through puberty, women see their estrogen levels spike, which results in breast growth. As puberty tapers off, so does the estrogen level in women's bodies, leaving breasts in the same relative size for the rest of women's lives," says Ellis.
Here's the connection: "What we conclude from this is that estrogen will grow breast size, so foods which contain a lot of estrogen are capable of entering our bodies and growing our breasts as well. The list of phytoestrogen foods includes tofu, edamame, flaxseed, and soybeans," she says. Carrots, beets, and yams work as well, but only consume them in moderation, as there are studies that talk about possible side effects of consuming too much phytoestrogen.
4. Hormonal Fluctuations
Like we mentioned, increased estrogen in the body can boost your cup size, and nothing boosts your estrogen better than pregnancy. "One of the benefits of pregnancy is larger breasts, since estrogen can stimulate milk glands and ducts to grow," says Dr. Angela Jones, an OB-GYN and Astroglide's resident sexual-health adviser. Estrogen isn't the only hormone present during pregnancy that plays a role. Progesterone and prolactin help as well, Jones says.
Birth-control pills and other means of contraception can also help "due to the extra hormones, like estrogen and progesterone," Jones says. While low-dose estrogen pills will still have some effect, you'll get a bigger boost with a high-dose pill like Yaz or Yasmin.
"It's not uncommon to notice a slight increase in breast size around the time of your period, too, primarily due to the slight weight gain that most women experience around that time of the month," the doctor explains. That temporary weight gain is - you guessed it - also related to hormonal changes.
5. Having Good Posture
This is an obvious one, but stop slouching. Good posture can make your boobs look bigger and perkier. "If your core is strong, then everything falls into place: your back is well-supported, so there is no forward lean, and your shoulders do not pronate but instead fall back," says Gahan. "This will make your boobs look larger, as they'll be pushed out, rather than shrunken inwards."
The 1-Second Hack That Will Improve Any and Every Exercise
Sometimes working out can be the best thing in the world. You feel great, you look great, and your hard work pays off in the form of the results and dream body you've always wanted. But in the real world, things don't always work that way. In fact, it takes a very long time and a lot of hard work to see the results that you want.
Aside from doing the work, being diligent in the gym and the kitchen, and staying committed to the process, there are very few other ways to get the body that you want. But there is one secret that most trainers and specialists don't advertise to just anyone. What is that secret, you ask? Pausing at just the right time when you're lifting. That's right! Stopping, and knowing when to do it during your workout, is the difference maker for many people seeking the same results as you are!
Here's How to Do It
Every exercise has a concentric and eccentric part. What does all that science mean? Simple: there's an up (concentric) and a down (eccentric) part to almost all the exercises you've followed your whole life. The key to this simple trick is to focus on the eccentric movement, or, in simpler terms, the downward motion of each set.
According to certified personal trainer Kendal Wood, CSCS and coauthor of Core Fitness Solution, "Many people allow the weight that they carry on the second part of each rep to simply swing down, and lose a lot of the benefits of the exercise in doing so." Wood told us that just letting the weight fall is only half of the exercise.
"Instead of dropping the weight, lower it to the start position slowly," said Wood. That's a normal rep. But if you want to take advantage of this key pointer for better results, you have to know when to put a pause in your rep! Halfway down through the lowering process, you should pause for a one count. "This ensures that you harness all your muscle to hold the weight at its weakest point," said Wood. "And only greater benefits come from that extra exertion."
Why Does It Work?
The answer to this is quite simple: more effort, more precise care to the movement, and total control of your muscles through each rep causes better results because there's nothing for your body to do but tone and tighten up. As Wood told us, "Doing this pause method for one of each set you do for every muscle group every week is almost like doing two sets instead of one." And being able to do two exercises in the space you planned to do one is a great way to ensure better results!
Experts Recommend Completely Avoiding Apple Cider Vinegar Pills For This Surprising Reason
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has myriad health benefits, so it's no surprise that it's currently all the rage. ACV helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels, lowers cholesterol, and can even ease the symptoms of a nasty cold. The only downside is that this serum isn't especially tasty, which is why some people are turning to ACV pills. On the surface, this sounds like the perfect solution - but experts say pills aren't effective and in some cases they may not even contain the active ingredient that makes ACV so healthy. (Yikes.)
Rachel Swanson, MS, RD, LDN of LifeSpan Medicine, told POPSUGAR that, because the FDA doesn't regulate supplements, it's common for the ingredient list to be inaccurate. "A lot of the ingredients listed are false, and there can be other sketchy ingredients in there," she explained. If you take ACV pills, Swanson said you run the risk of the supplement "not containing the active ingredient, acetic acid, which is where the documented health effects come from."
Vanessa Rissetto, MS, RD, CDN, has the same warning about ACV pills. "Supplements aren't regulated by the FDA so even though they say they have ACV in them doesn't necessarily mean it," she told POPSUGAR.
Jennifer Haessler, ND, noted that ACV pills aren't effective because "the bitter taste is part of what helps [ACV] work. It causes your stomach to produce more stomach acid and enzymes, which can help you to digest food better. Part of the reason many people have digestive issues (even reflux) is that they are not producing enough acid and/or enzymes." If a small amount of ACV makes you feel worse, Haessler said it's likely that your body is producing enough acid and enzymes already.
Due to the lack of clinical research on ACV pills, Swanson said another risk is the questionable dosages. ACV's benefits are achieved by taking one to two tablespoons each day, and experts advise against taking too much of the serum. "We can't extrapolate this dosage to capsules," Swanson explained.
The best way to take ACV is by diluting each tablespoon in eight ounces of water. Even if you're one of the few people who can bear to drink it like a shot, you still run the risk of damaging your esophagus and tooth enamel. Swanson said another way to integrate ACV into your daily regimen is by mixing it into your salad dressing. "I recommend consuming it at a culinary dose of two tablespoons as part of a salad dressing mixture," she told POPSUGAR. (You could also try out this apple cider vinegar drink recipe - it tastes more like a mocktail and provides a hearty dose of ACV.)
Swanson added that ACV pills aren't the only supplements to avoid. "There are so many cases that should remind us to stay away from this supplement habit until safety is established," she said. "Remember how high-dose beta-carotene supplements actually increased risk of cancer? It's a reminder that if one wishes to experiment with the effectiveness of various compounds, whether it's antioxidants or acetic acid from ACV, then stick to using food as your medicine [rather than] playing with fire by choosing supplements, which we don't have adequate data to support."
Haldi Doodh: The Immune-Boosting Elixir You've Been Waiting For
Haldi Doodh, otherwise known as turmeric milk or golden milk, is the secret weapon you've been waiting for in your quest for better health. Mothers across the South-Asian subcontinent have been using Haldi Doodh to fight ailments for centuries, but in recent times, it has garnered the attention of the Western world. Haldi Doodh is an ancient Ayurvedic drink that contains milk, honey, a smidgen of turmeric, and a pinch of black pepper. The primary use of this home remedy is to treat ailments such as coughs, colds, digestive problems, and more. I personally have been using Haldi Doodh for my son who suffers from asthma, and though it took a little time getting him used to the taste, the results have been worth the trouble. Haldi Doodh has been such an effective tool in keeping my son's colds at bay while strengthening his respiratory and immune system.
The VIP ingredient in Haldi Doodh is turmeric, which contains a chemical compound known as curcumin. Curcumin works by blocking inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which can help with things like arthritis and joint pain. Plus the anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial, antiallergic properties found in turmeric help with dozens of ailments from respiratory illnesses to mood and memory disorders. Turmeric can also be used as an enema for people suffering from irritable bowel disease. As if this all wasn't impressive enough, turmeric also helps the body modulate the immune system, which can have beneficial effects for conditions like asthma, heart disease, and even cancer. Preliminary studies have found that curcumin has the potential to control knee pain from arthritis as effectively as ibuprofen, reduce how many heart attacks a person has after bypass surgery, and even reduce skin irritations after cancer radiation treatments.
There are countless variations of how you can make Haldi Doodh, but the main ingredient is always turmeric. Milk is used because curcumin gets absorbed in the fats and tissues of the body more effectively when mixed with milk. Some people like to use a cup of dairy milk, while others use almond, coconut, or soy milk. Another modification can be the amount of honey to use. Since turmeric has a very strong taste (and odor), honey can help disguise some of that, which is why it's more commonly used with reluctant children in the middle of the night. Luckily, you only have to use a small pinch of turmeric in Haldi Doodh because large amounts of it can cause stomach irritation. Some people add fresh ginger to their Haldi Doodh because it has antimicrobial properties that provide protection to the body's immune and respiratory systems. A key addition to Haldi Doodh is black pepper. Black pepper is a source of piperine, which is a molecule that can stop enzymes from attacking other molecules. Studies have found that when curcumin and piperine are combined before ingesting, the potency of the turmeric goes up exponentially along with the extent of absorption.
So now that you know all this, get cracking on your own version of Haldi Doodh and make sure to use organic ingredients, if possible. And since you're wondering, no, there really isn't anything that this superdrink can't help cure!
25 Healthy Foods to Eat at Night
Does this sound familiar? It's 9 p.m., dinner is a distant memory, and your stomach starts to grumble. You begrudgingly make your way to bed and go to sleep hungry because you've heard over and over that eating after dinner is a no-no.
Contrary to this outdated advice, certain foods can actually help you drift off to dreamland. You just have to choose the right foods in the right amounts. Each of these foods has the power to aid in digestion, stave off late-night hunger, or relax your body and mind. Keep the serving sizes small – just a 100 to 200 calorie snack is all you need to reap the benefits of these nutritious foods and fall asleep with a happy belly and a smile on your face.
22 Hot Guys Lifting Weights That Will Have You Booking It to the Gym, Pronto
Let's be honest: the biggest perk your gym has to offer isn't the complimentary mouthwash or the four different bikram yoga classes. It's the hot guys lifting weights. Think about it - do you catch yourself lingering outside the weight room, peering in at the exercisers and getting entranced by all the grunting? Maybe you even go inside and pretend you know how to use a lat pull-down machine just so you can ogle the throbbing muscles around you. Guess what? It's perfectly natural.
There's something mesmerizing about guys doing squats with a barbell, and then there's the CrossFit guys, who are truly a sight to behold - how are they throwing those heavy balls like they're baseballs? *Wipes sweat from brow.*
Here are 22 of the most smoking-hot weight-lifters on Instagram. Just brace yourself; you might need to catch your breath after a few slides.
An Instant Pot Cookbook Trend Got the Internet Smackdown It Truly Deserves
Regardless of whether or not you personally spend any time cooking, chances are you've probably come across Instant Pot, the wildly popular pressure cooker that has taken the internet (and our kitchens) by storm. But as Mike Rugnetta pointed out on Twitter on Jan. 22, there's one aspect of the cultural phenomenon that totally misses the mark, and it's all centered on a series of cookbooks that claim to deliver the best meals to make for two.
these poor women pic.twitter.com/MeVjZvpyb1
- Mike, who makes popular podcasts and web shows (@mikerugnetta) January 22, 2018
While these publications are by no means produced by the Instant Pot makers themselves, dozens of cookbooks have appeared in recent days that share one very uncomfortable trait: each cookbook cover features a man looming over a woman, often guiding her hands as she preps the meal - an action that one exceptionally brilliant Twitter user dubbed "handsplaining."
Naturally, the internet was not having any of this - and gave the "handsplaining" trend the smackdown it so very, very much deserved. Ahead, check out some of what went down when Twitter was made aware of the downright ludicrous branding that threatened to tarnish the reputation of 2018's most popular gadget.
Who Is Running For President in 2020?
Donald Trump has barely completed his first year in office, but presidential hopefuls from all parties are already lining up in public, in private, or in our dreams to run against him and take office in 2020. While very few political players have publicly spoken up about intentions to run, the signs that someone is running - serious fundraising, visiting battleground states, making political appearances, releasing a book, etc. - often make their ambitions fairly clear well before they're official.
So who might President Trump - if he is, in fact, the GOP's candidate - face in less than three years? Here's a look at 17 people who seem to be laying the foundation for a presidential run in 2020, two who are already trumpeting their 2020 campaigns, and eight people who say they absolutely will not run.
Every Emotional Photo You Need to See From Barack and Michelle Obama's Portrait Unveiling
A little over a year after departing the White House, Barack and Michelle Obama unveiled their official portraits at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery on Feb. 12. Much like the former president's time in office, the portraits are unique and unprecedented in their use of prints, vibrant colors, and personality.
Kehinde Wiley painted Mr. Obama's official portrait, while Amy Sherald painted that of Mrs. Obama. The two have made history as the first black artists to create official presidential portraits for the Smithsonian, with Wiley also being the first openly LGBTQ+ artist to do so.
"To call this experience humbling would be an understatement," the former president wrote on Instagram. "Thanks to Kehinde and Amy, generations of Americans - and young people from all around the world - will visit the National Portrait Gallery and see this country through a new lens. They'll walk out of that museum with a better sense of the America we all love. Clear-eyed. Big-hearted. Inclusive and optimistic."
The unveiling ceremony was filled with many heartwarming moments, like when Mr. Obama stopped to just stare up at the former first lady's portrait. Ahead, enjoy every emotional picture from the historic event.
Here's How to Fully Turn Off Your Bluetooth and WiFi in iOS 11
With the introduction of every new software update, Apple usually manages to sneak in some much-needed features. However, the new customizable Control Center on iOS 11 is responsible for some serious headaches. As people have quickly discovered, when you switch off WiFi and Bluetooth on Control Center, it doesn't actually fully turn off these services - instead, it puts your phone right in the crosshairs of a possible security risk.
In the old Control Center, you could tap the WiFi and Bluetooth icons to turn off these services completely. Now, however, doing so just simply disconnects you from the WiFi network you're on or the Bluetooth device you're using and does not actually turn off WiFi and Bluetooth. To turn it off completely, you need to go to your Settings app and do it there. But - surprise! - there's another plot twist; not even that fully turns off WiFi and Bluetooth. If you restart your phone, go to a new location, or it's 5 a.m. local time, WiFi and Bluetooth will automatically turn on again.
On the surface, this doesn't seem like such a big deal. Sometimes people toggle those buttons on and off by mistake and then forget how to turn it back on. However, as security researcher Andrea Barisani explained to Motherboard, turning off Bluetooth and WiFi makes you less vulnerable to cyber attacks. And it's probably worth mentioning that it's also incredibly annoying. I usually turn off WiFi during my commute so that I can listen to Spotify and check my email seamlessly, but as it searches for other WiFi networks and attempts to connect them, it slows down my web surfing. Since I was so used to switching off WiFi before iOS 11 was released, it is not always easy to remember that I need to continue turning off WiFi as I walk around the city.
For Apple, the move is intentional and not a bug. It keeps WiFi and Bluetooth on so you can still use features like AirDrop, AirPlay, Handoff, and Location Services or products like Apple Pencil and Apple Watch. So, if you actually want to turn these services off, go to your Settings and do it there.
It's unclear whether Apple will "fix" this issue or simply keep it. If anything, at least now you know the possible danger and can try to remedy it yourself each day.
10 Unique and Useful Gadgets You Didn't Know You Could Find at Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters is known for its trendy clothes and cute home department, but it also carries a wide array of fun tech gadgets. These unique tools are here to make your life easier. From solar-powered phone chargers to smart gardens and even a music-blasting cooler, these useful picks also make for great gifts. To make shopping easier, we rounded up the retailer's best products for you. Take a look at our favorites.
This Popular Design Couple Just Launched a Kids' Collection at Walmart
Finding stylish, modern kids' furniture that's also affordable can be challenging, which is why Robert and Cortney Novogratz - designers and parents to seven children - jumped at the opportunity to work on a kids' furniture collection for Walmart. Known for their modern and whimsical aesthetic, Robert and Courtney have inspired design-lovers since their days starring in interiors-focused shows on HGTV and Bravo. Now, the couple are channeling their signature style into the newly launched Addison Collection. The Walmart.com-exclusive collection includes 16 pieces of furniture ranging from $60 to $230. While the collection captures the couple's playful style, its clean and simple design makes it versatile enough to mix and match and grow with your child. Take a peek at some of Courtney's favorite picks!
How a Necklace Made Me Question My Abilities as a Mother
While celebrating a past birthday with friends, we decided to wander the shops of our edgy downtown street. We stepped into one of my favorite places, a shop where vintage artwork popped from every corner and handmade jewelry hung from pegs. I hadn't planned on buying anything, but then I saw it: a pendant necklace that said, "Best Mom Ever."
"Can I buy this for myself?" I chuckled to my friends. Immediately, of course, they all said, "Yes." I took it to the register and paid.
I am my children's only mom, and therein lies a gift beyond any bronze chain, a gift that says no one else can validate nor eradicate what I know to be true.
When I got home, I showed it to my husband. "That's hilarious," he said, and we laughed together. I admit that I felt somewhat like Michael Scott from The Office, who kept a self-purchased "Best Boss Ever" mug on his desk. I know these types of things aren't meant to be purchased by the wearer, but given as a gift. But that necklace was beautiful and seemed like the perfect thing to dress up my frequent outfits of t-shirts and jeans. So why couldn't I get it for myself?
My children are still in the stages where they constantly shower me with love no matter what. They still want to snuggle in the morning and they always want extra hugs at bedtime. I'm still a valuable teammate for checkers, and I do all the good voices when reading their favorite books. "Your kids are great," my family and friends assure me, "and you're a great mom." But those words are just flattery unless I believe them, too.
When my oldest child - an always curious 6-year-old - saw my necklace, he read it out loud. "Best. Mom. Ever." Then he snickered and continued playing. A couple weeks later, he asked me why I wear it. "I like it," I said. "Do you agree with it?" "No," he said, "because sometimes we do bad things and you yell at us." I nodded, impressed with his honesty, and kissed him goodnight.
And he's right. I yell sometimes, frustrated over the little things. I can be grumpy every morning and snippy in the afternoons, and I question anyone's authority to speak to my parenting strategies. I know that no matter how rightful and loving my motherly discipline is, it doesn't always come out in the calm manner I know it should.
No, when compared to many other moms, I would likely not win the title that my necklace boasts. Still, I wear it because I have three children whom I love. Three self-purchased red words hang over my heart and speak a truth that goes beyond opinion or anecdotes. This truth is something that may take years to develop, but something that seeps positivity into all the minutes I spend with my children.
I am my children's only mom, and therein lies a gift beyond any bronze chain, a gift that says no one else can validate nor eradicate what I know to be true. I am the best if I choose to take on the title.
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
You're About to Fall Head-Over-Heels in Love With the Dresses at the Spirit Awards
Did the 2018 Spirit Awards sneak up on you? Not to worry. We kept an eye out on who was walking the blue carpet and, most important, what they were wearing. Hollywood stars such as Margot Robbie showed up in a leopard-print Louis Vuitton dress, while Lady Bird actress Saoirse Ronan wore a gorgeous Prada minidress.
Everyone looked downright gorgeous, and it's hard to believe the designer gowns and accessories don't end here. This event, among many over the weekend, is only a prelude to one of the biggest awards shows of the season: the Oscars. Before you tune in Sunday night for that, however, you'll want to check out every single look from the Spirit Awards ahead.
You Know Those Hunter Rain Boots You Love? You Can Get 'Em For $45 at Target
Target knows exactly how to reel us in with limited-edition collections. When it announced Victoria Beckham's collaboration, we ran to get our hands on everything. We'll be doing the same with its latest, a Spring line from Hunter that will include more than 300 items, with most pieces retailing for under $30.
"Hunter has long been regarded for its impeccable design aesthetic, rich heritage, and playful spirit, and based on our research, it's a brand our guests know and love. So a pairing between our two brands made perfect sense," Mark Tritton, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer at Target, said. "From the very beginning, we worked with Hunter to develop a well-designed, affordable collection that's all about fun, optimism, and accessible adventure for the entire family. The colorful, all-weather pieces found in this line are made for enjoying the outdoors - rain or shine - on any budget."
Everything will range from $5 to $80, with Hunter's famous Wellington rain boots retailing for $45 and under - a steal from the usual $150 price tag. Of course, the collection will include apparel and accessories for women, men, girls, boys, and toddlers, but for the first time, Hunter is releasing products for the home and outdoors.
The entire collection will be available from April 14 through June 14 at select Target stores and on Target.com. For women, the sizes will be XS to 3X; for men, S to XXL; and for kids, 18M to XL. If you are a Redcard holder, you will have early access to order exclusive colors in select styles on Target.com starting on April 7. Set your timers and get your wallets ready because we know we will be fully prepared.
Pause Whatever You're Doing Because the Best Street Style From Paris Fashion Week Is Here
If you love clothes, chances are you've been following Fashion Week street style from New York to London to Milan. And now, your final journey will end in Paris. Celebrities and the who's who in fashion have descended on the city for shows, and there's no better way to capture the lively atmosphere than through street style. Photographers were on hand to snap the most epic outfits, and it'll be difficult to pick your favorite look. As we wind down on Paris Fashion Week, there are already more outfits than we can count to inspire our own wardrobe choices for 2018. Take a look at all of them ahead.
Ditch the Heels - These 11 Cool Sneakers Are Perfect For Your Wedding Day
When it comes to your wedding, you want everything to be perfect - especially your outfit. While most brides opt for a pair of heels, you can also rock a pair of stylish sneakers. Whether you want to wear them the whole day or you're looking for something to slip on after the ceremony, these versatile shoes can totally save your feet. We rounded up a list of comfortable choices, from fun glitter to silky satin picks. Shop these trendy kicks.
8 Must Haves Every Woman Should Have in Their Suitcase
Whether you're headed on a big city adventure or relaxing beach vacation, packing light can often be difficult. There are a few items that are total must-haves when it comes to traveling and should always be in your suitcase, no matter the destination. If you need a little helps figuring out to get for your next getaway we rounded up a list of classics that are totally worth the investment. From sleek ankle boots to the perfect tee, you'll end up wearing these staple pieces more often than you think.
- Additional reporting by Alyssa Caverley
I Spent Years Looking For the Perfect Boot, and I Finally Found It (in So Many Colors!)
Call me plain, but I pretty much only wear sneakers and boots. Every year when Fall rolls around, I begin my hunt for the perfect ankle boot that I plan on exhausting through Spring. I prefer to find just one good pair that I can mix and match with all my outfits. I love wearing ankle boots with jeans, trousers, skirts, dresses, leather leggings . . . you get it - the options are endless. And my list of what makes them a dream pair is even longer.
My requirements: I won't be shy about my pickiness because if I'm going to drop a few hundred dollars, I want my splurge to be worth it. I'm not huge on heels (for obvious comfort reasons), but I'll go for something under three inches. I also need a rubber sole; having that extra support on the bottom of my footbed makes all the difference. Last but not least, I'm all about suede. Finding the ideal material that is actually nice but not too expensive isn't always easy.
By word of mouth over the past year, I've heard so many good things about M. Gemi. Its shoes are handmade in Italy with top-of-the-line leather. This photo-worthy brand has a wide variety of sneakers, flats, and boots, all known for high-quality craftsmanship and fair prices. I saw these Corsa Boots ($348) on my Instagram feed and immediately fell in love. The day I received them in the mail, I knew they were winners. The box even came with a cute personalized name-card.
My final verdict: The heel is my ideal height. I've spent the last week walking around all day in them, and there was no period of breaking in; they instantly felt comfortable. The shaft height also hits the right place on my leg, looking good with everything from tights and skirts to cropped jeans. Overall, the biggest positive for me is the quality; the leather is soft and supple, and it doesn't cut into my skin when I walk. The zipper is no fuss and slides up smoothly for easy on-and-off wear. I feel like I'm getting designer-quality shoes for half the price.
An added bonus is that these boots come in six beautiful suede shades. The brand also offers different styles of this shoe, including a leather version ($348), a leopard calf-hair-print choice ($498), and even a cool moto pair ($448).
How to Wear Spring's Hottest Color Trend Without Looking Like an Easter Egg
As much as we relish a saturated, punchy pop of color, there's an equal amount of space in our hearts for pastels. These soft, powdery hues not only translate to Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall, but also play nicely with many of our favorite fabrics (denim, for example).
We saw a slew of sorbets come down Spring/Summer 2018 runways - Tibi and Chloé included - and thus assembled your outfit and shopping guide to give a jump-start on your wardrobe for the season.
11 Kitten Heels That Are Cool, Comfortable, and All Under $50
There's no worse feeling than having to ditch heels you love because they're too uncomfortable; instead, try wearing kitten heels. This comfortable shoe is back in style, and we couldn't be happier. Not only are they cute, but they won't hurt your feet and they come in so many shapes and styles as well. We rounded up a list of fun picks you'll want to own. From velvet fabrics to gingham prints, all of these chic choices are under $50 - so you can treat yourself to more than one pair. Shop our favorites.
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