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.
mardi 1 janvier 2019
Tess Found Health and Strength With BBG - Oh, and She Lost 20 Pounds, Too
For 27-year old Tess Lankers (@robiinfit_xv on Instagram), losing weight wasn't the issue at first. She had struggled with her health growing up all the way until age 24, and was actually underweight. Doctors couldn't figure out what was wrong with her.
She was tested for cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, Lyme disease etc., but the tests all came back negative. Tess told POPSUGAR, "doctors started thinking it was all in my head." She wanted to start working out, but with her health not being great, it just wasn't realistic. Doctors finally found out what was wrong, which was amazing, but treatment made her gain weight. Keep reading to learn Tess's amazing story.
Related: These 11 Inspiring Before-and-After Transformations Prove BBG Works!
17 Brand New Books You Need to Get Your Hands on in January
Ah, yes, January. Is there a better month to curl up by the fire with a cozy blanket, a cup of cocoa, and a good page-turner while you avoid all of those brand new resolutions you made for the year? No, there is not. Fortunately, regardless of your favorite genre, we have a few stellar options coming to bookshelves over the next few weeks that should please every reader. From buzzy female authors to writers who are publishing novels for the very first time, check them all out, ahead!
- Additional reporting by Lindsay Miller
Learn How to Lift Weights (and Build Muscle) With This 4-Week Beginner Workout Plan
Weightlifting is one of the best ways to build muscle and lower your body fat percentage. A 2006 review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reported that weightlifting will also increase your bone mass, improve your cardiovascular levels, and enhance your sense of well-being.
If your goal is to learn how to lift weights, but you aren't exactly sure where to get started, I've got you covered. This four-week strength program will provide you with a strength foundation and teach you the basics.
Because everyone has different strength levels, here are general recommendations to determine the amount of weight you should lift. For upper-body exercises, I recommend starting with 7.5- to 10-pound dumbbells. If the weight is too light or too easy, feel free to make adjustments. For lower-body exercises with dumbbells, start with 10- to 15-pound dumbbells increasing or decreasing the weight as necessary. For barbell exercises, begin by adding 10 pounds to each side increasing or decreasing the weight as needed.
As always, make sure to warm up and cool down before and after your workout. Here's a dynamic warmup and a total-body stretch sequence to follow.
19 People Who Freaked the F*ck Out Over Black Mirror: Bandersnatch's Very First Question
Black Mirror: Bandersnatch is here, and so is a hell of a lot of stress for audiences all over the world. Luckily, the interactive, "choose your own adventure"-style film is also giving fans a reason to laugh thanks to its seemingly silly (and surprisingly stressful) first question.
The Black Mirror film, which presumably takes place in the same universe as Netflix's bleak-as-f*ck sci-fi series, has been described as a "morally compromising adventure" that follows programmer Stefan in the '80s as he attempts to create a bestselling, text-based computer game inspired by a novel given to him as a child. The book was originally written by a deranged artist who murdered his wife, so you can expect things to get dark, as only Black Mirror can.
As Stefan descends deeper and deeper into the world of Bandersnatch, the young programmer starts to experiment with pills, which alter his perspective of reality in drastic, dangerous ways. But first he needs to decide which kind of cereal to eat in the morning, which is where you come in: Sugar Puffs or Frosties?
See how Black Mirror fans have been hilariously struggling with the question ahead!
Clear Your Schedule, Because These 40+ Titles Are Leaving Netflix in January
Out with the old and in with the new! January is right around the corner, and with the new year comes a ton of new movies and TV shows to enjoy on Netflix. But, that also means that the streaming giant has to clean house to make room, so while we'll be able to watch The Addams Family and American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace, we'll have to say goodbye to classics like The Princess Diaries, Rent, and three seasons of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. We still have some time left before these titles are gone from our queues forever, so cancel your plans and check out the full list of movies and TV shows ahead.
14 Horror Movies Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2019
If you like to bounce back from all the holiday cheer with a little bit of horror, the first few months of 2019 have plenty of scares to keep you jumping in your seat. Some are straight-up horror movies, while others are the type of psychological thriller that may stay with you for days afterward. Either way, you don't have to look too far for a screaming good time. Here's a lineup of the spooky movies we know are coming. Stay tuned, as more will get added to the list!
The Secret to Making a Fitness Resolution You Can Stick to Is Actually Really Obvious
Chances are you've made losing weight or getting healthy your New Year's resolution - or part of it - at least one time in your life. And if you're like the majority of Americans, you start out strong on that goal, but by February, the steam is running out. You're not alone: 80 percent of Americans fail by February, and by March it's like, "What resolution?"
I've suffered that fate many times, but I still love the idea of making a New Year's resolution, and I'm determined to get it right in practice. That's why this year I'm focusing on making it for the long haul.
Typically, in the past, I have made a superficial resolution, like losing 10 pounds. To do that I've gone on sugar detoxes, smoothie cleanses, and Paleo diets to no avail. While I've had some short-term success, it has rarely carried over into a sustainable habit, and rarely have I reached my goal of 10 pounds. This year, though, will be different, because I've discovered the secret that I think will work for me.
Set the Bar Low
This year I'm not focusing on the quick fix to drop the extra holiday weight, but that's not to say I don't have high expectations for myself. Nutritionist Veronica Cardon agrees and advises that to be successful, start with short-term goals, spread out.
"Don't start with an overly ambitious goal such as 'I will lose 20 pounds in three months.' It's better to set up small-step objectives that make the milestones achievable and realistic, such as 'I will lose two pounds a month,'" Cardon says.
In order to achieve those goals, I'm starting by mapping out specific things I'll do each month. In January, I'm starting with giving up the creamer in my coffee and committing to making it to the gym three times a week.
Health coach Marcey Rader suggests mini habits throughout the year in order to create lasting habits that will help you achieve your resolution.
"In January, I'll increase my meditation by two minutes per day, and in February, I'll only get sugar in my coffee on weekends," Rader says. "In March, I'll stretch every day or do five Sun Salutations as an end to my workday and transition to personal time."
Rader also says this helps to keep us from feeling like we failed when we don't see immediate results or face a setback.
"It also helps to know it's only for a short time (30 days), which by then may have become a habit," Rader says. "If the habit doesn't work out, because maybe it's not as beneficial as we thought, we gave it the 30-day college try and can move on."
To keep yourself accountable, it's also a good idea to set reminders to stay on track. It's easy to get distracted and forget your goals, which is where you can use technology to your advantage. I'm starting by setting daily reminders for myself on my cell phone and planning my workout schedule ahead of time. I notice when I see the reminder, I'm more likely to feel compelled to stick to it. I'm also going to journal at the end of every week, tracking my progress (or lack thereof).
Here's to another year of setting resolutions . . . and this year, sticking to them!
Cozy Up to These Low-Carb Soups, and Say So Long to That Dreaded Winter Weight
Throw on your sweater, slip into your fuzziest pair of socks, and put a pot on the stove because it's officially soup season. There might be nothing cozier or more satisfying than a hearty bowl of soup, but if you're trying to cut back on carbs, you'll need to take some precautions. Even the smallest amount of sugar in the recipe - or, ahem, those tortilla strips on top - can sabotage your weight-loss efforts. That's why we've rounded up these foolproof, low-carb recipes. Whether you like your soup creamy, stuffed with veggies, or high in protein, you'll find something to satisfy your taste buds.
5 Quick Morning Habits You Need to Start Now
Want to make the most out of your morning, no matter how late to work you are? These morning tricks will set you up for success. Altogether they'll just take up five minutes of your time, so you can add them into even the most hectic morning routine.
1. Don't snooze:
It's easier said than done, but trust us, this works. Forgoing the snooze button and getting up as soon as your alarm goes off will help you feel less tired.
How to do it: Set your alarm for the time you want to get up, not an earlier time just so you can hit snooze. Using a fitness tracker or smartphone app that tracks your sleep cycle can help rouse you out of slumber when you're not in your deepest sleep.
2. Stretch:
Feeling groggy? Try waking up your body with a few stretches that will also aid digestion and help you become more flexible (an important aspect of staying injury-free, no matter how active you are).
How to do it: The good news is that you can do these soothing, energizing stretches right in bed to ease you into your morning routine.
3. Be mindful:
Even the most meditation-averse among us can benefit from being present and more mindful. No need to spend five minutes trying to concentrate on thinking about nothing (although, if you want to, it works) - a pause to be in the moment, whatever that moment is, can help.
How to do it: Use this mindfulness guide to find different ways to be more present in your daily actions, sipping your morning coffee (or tea) to your commute.
4. Breathe:
A few deep breaths can go a long way to center your mind and increase your focus throughout the rest of the day.
How to do it: Use this breathing technique when you're lying in your bed before you get up.
5. Hydrate:
The first thing you should think about when you wake up is water. Overnight, your body loses hydration, so replenishing fluids helps wake up your body (and metabolism) while flushing out toxins.
How to do it:Drink an eight- or 16-ounce glass of cold water in the morning as soon as you get out of bed, or opt for a mug of hot water with lemon.
You Have to Really Love Sleep to Wear This Travel Pillow, and We'll Take 2, Please
Absurd or absurdly comfortable? That's a decision only you can make. The head-hugging design of the OstrichPillow Original Travel Pillow ($99) promises to wrap you like a cocoon, blocking out your surroundings so you can get some sleep and feel calm and rested for your next vacation. It's perfect for airplanes, trains, long car rides (as long as you're not driving), and any time you want to block out the loud person next to you. Essentially, this is just the pillow your life needs.
While the reviews of this kooky pillow are a bit mixed, there are some definite fans, and for a variety of reasons. "I travel frequently to visit my girlfriend and this works great to block out light and noise on my flight," one Amazon customer wrote. "Her dog is a little freaked out by my face when I wear it, so I like to spook her with it for free entertainment." There you have it, friends.
If you're like us, you'll try anything to feel more at ease on a flight, including wearing a pillow like it's any other fashion accessory. However, if the enclosure is just a bit too much for you to handle, you can always rest your head on it like a normal pillow, but where's the fun in that?
Scroll through to see just how cozy this pillow can be, whether you want to take a nap under your desk or hide yourself away from your weird ex-boyfriend - or, you know, finally sleep on a flight.
Here Are the Top iPhone Apps of 2018 - How Many Do You Have?
Let's face it, smartphone apps basically rule the world now. If you're not watching videos on Netflix or YouTube, you're probably scrolling through Instagram or Facebook, or updating your schedule in your Calendar app. We bet even your last date was found on an app, too. Everything is run on apps now!
Apple announced the top iPhone apps of 2018, and just when we thought we had all the best apps, there are so many new ones to discover. Click through to see if your favorites made the list - and don't be surprised if you end up visiting the App Store for a few more.
Try These 15 Tips Before Giving Up on Your Relationship and Moving On
If you're not happy in your relationship or you're going through some ups and downs, don't fret. First off, it happens to most couples (it's not always smooth sailing!), so don't think it's just you two. Second, a few tiffs don't always mean you have to call it quits. That said, if things haven't been going well for a very long time and you can't find a resolution to reconnect as a team, take some time to try these easy suggestions to see if there's a way to get the relationship back on the right track. You may find some common ground that gives you both hope for the future.
Netflix Rang in 2019 by (Finally!) Dropping the Premiere Date For Stranger Things Season 3
Proving that the Duffer Brothers know how to start the new year properly, Netflix rang in 2019 on Tuesday by giving fans what they've been waiting an eternity for: the premiere date for Stranger Things season three. According to an appropriately New Year's Eve-themed teaser, we can add binge-watching to our Fourth of July plans, since that's when the eight-episode third season will officially drop.
While the teaser did give us a fun look at Dick Clark's 1984 New Year's Rockin' Eve special, it didn't reveal any new footage from the upcoming season. It does include a secret coded message that reads, "When blue and yellow meet in the west," and we can briefly hear what sounds like Mike calling out for Eleven, but that just adds to the enigma that is season three. We speculated that the third season would premiere during the summer back when Stranger Things dropped an '80s-tastic teaser for the new season on July 16. The teaser introduced Starcourt Mall, the new shopping mall for the town of Hawkins, and a mysterious new character, Robin.
Considering it's been more than a year since the second season's October 2017 premiere, it's safe to say that fans are ready for the Summer of mystery season three promises to be. Especially since there are suspicions that the series will be ending sooner rather than later. Exactly what will this summer change for our young heroes? How will Steve juggle his new job at Starcourt Mall with babysitting and monster hunting? Will Hawkins ever be free of The Upside Down? Guess we'll have to wait until this summer to find out!
Get Comfortable: We Found 53 Perfect Presents For Every Woman in Your Life
Put that mug of hot chocolate down! It's time to get to the real business of the holidays: Christmas shopping. We know it can be hard to find presents for the women in your life, so that's why we created the ultimate gift guide for you to browse through. These items are excellent for mothers, grandmothers, sisters, BFFs, friends, and any other gal you know. Whether she's a fashion girl, couch potato, techie, or makeup maven, we have something she'll be thrilled to receive. You don't even have to get out of your pajamas to look through these goodies; they're all available to purchase online. Let's get going!
Related: 103 Gifts Your Best Friend Will Obsess Over in 2018
After You See These 11 Comfortable Boots, You Won't Want to Wear Anything Else
As much as we all love a fashion-forward boot, if it's not comfortable, we aren't wearing it. This is especially true in Winter, because when boots take up their own section of the closet, comfort is key. We need to be able to wear these boots all day long and not worry about hobbling home. Enter the shearling boot. Made popular by the classic UGG Australia boot, more and more designers are now creating cute, comfortable shearling boots that you're going to want to live in. These are our absolute favorite picks; you can thank us later.
Taylor Swift's Hands-Free Bag Is Practically Perfect in Every Way For Winter
Taylor Swift was spotted on a rare outing in NYC with her boyfriend Joe Alwyn, and the duo were bundled up for the brisk weather. Their color coordination might not have been obvious, but while Joe stuck to cool blue outerwear, Taylor warmed things up in a rust-tone furry coat and plum skinnies. The romantic touch? Taylor and Joe held hands as they walked, which might not have been possible if Taylor was toting a purse. Luckily for Joe, she opted for a hands-free YSL belt bag that she strapped across her chest. So, is this accessory not the best possible option for a day date in Winter? Call it what you want, but we're going shopping.
11 Wardrobe Staples Every Curvy Girl Needs in Her Closet This Winter - Starting at Just $35!
Hunting for the perfect Winter wardrobe just got a whole lot easier. We shopped the POPSUGAR collection at Kohl's because it's filled with everything you could ever dream of at prices that are actually worth it. The best part: it comes in a wide range of sizes, from 0-24, and everything starts at just $35. So what are you waiting for? Keep reading to shop our favorites for work, the weekends, and beyond.
70+ Outfit Ideas to Get You Through the Long Winter in Style
We're not about to let a little snow or ice stand in the way of a good outfit. That doesn't mean going bare-legged or refusing to bundle up - remember, we want to look stylish, not clueless - but we refuse to wear a sleeping bag masquerading as a coat.
Clearly, this street styled crew knows the feeling, showing off a set of Winter-ready outfits that don't include oversize puffers or snow pants. Instead, their looks inspire a sleek, pulled-together standard for your cold-weather style, because a little inclement weather should never stand in the way of a great outfit. Click through for the inspiration, and prepare to layer up in style.
16 Insanely Cozy Sweaters That Actually Look Stylish - Starting at Just $40
There's one staple we can't live without in Winter: a stylish sweater. If you're on the hunt for the ultimate cozy pick that matches everything in your wardrobe, we did the hard work for you. Ahead, you'll find 16 cute and comfy picks to wear on repeat this season. Plus, they're all available at Nordstrom and start at just $40. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites.
Lea Michele Knows How to Pull Together a Swimsuit Look Like Nobody's Business
Lea Michele isn't shy about sharing a bathing suit shot - and why should she be? She works hard for that confidence! Trendy bathing suits are fun in theory, but sometimes they aren't always practical, and you'll get way more use out of simple one-pieces or separates. This year, Lea has been showing us just how hot those simple swimsuits can be! You won't find a lot of patterns, frills, or complicated straps here. Take it from this Grammy-nominated star; you'll get a lot of use out of the suits that you can easily throw on.
The 18 Most Stunning Pieces of Jewelry Kate Middleton Has Received From the Royal Family
From brand-new bling to centuries-old diamonds, in her first few years of marriage, the Duchess of Cambridge has already worn some impressive pieces of jewelry. Kate Middleton's new family has helped her build her very own collection of sparklers, but when it comes to really putting on the glitz, nothing beats having access to the Queen's incredible and iconic collection.
We took a look at the top 18 pieces of jewelry Kate has received or borrowed from the royal family - so far.
12 Shearling Shoes That Will Keep Your Feet Cozy All Winter Long
Have you ever met someone who doesn't want their feet to be cozy? Us neither. So as fashion girls, we love finding the cutest, most on-trend shoes that are also comfortable. Enter the fur-lined shoe. This trend has been spotted on every silhouette from boots to sneakers and slides; we can't get enough. This Winter, why would you wear anything else?
18 Outfit Ideas For Engagement Photos You'll Actually Love
We've seen the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to engagement shoots, but with so much riding on one set of pictures, we want them to be perfect - and to feel like us. The trick isn't just having the right photographer or great lighting - a lot of it is what you and your partner are wearing. That's because what you wear is likely going to dictate how comfortable you are moving around, or how you and your fiancé look together.
Like we said, there's a lot riding on these photos (just like your wedding photos!) - you'll have them for a long time and may even use them for your wedding invites or save the dates. So the necessary attention must be paid: we've come up with a set of tips to help you get the look just right. Scroll on to see - and pin away! - these engagement-shoot success stories.
10 Fashion Trends of the Past That Are Making a BIG Comeback in 2019
While the fashion world loves to look to the future, the Spring 2019 runway shows indicate that this year's biggest trends are taking a cue from the past. Top designers like Fendi, Louis Vuitton, and Givenchy are making the fashion trends of yesteryear, like bike shorts, puffy sleeves, and cargo pants, popular again.
It's not just the runways that are favoring old-school styles either. Bloggers, editors, and influencers alike have all embraced retro-inspired trends and found cool new ways to give them a fresh modern spin. From bold shoulders to retro headscarves and cool tie-dye fashions, click through to see all the trends making a comeback in 2019.
A Former Forever 21 Employee Breaks Down Everything You Need to Know
Forever 21 is a girl's dream come true when it comes to fast fashion. I worked there for almost two years, and I learned a lot of insider shopping secrets during my time at the store. It's probably why half of my closet comes from there - I know exactly what to look for.
There are so many strategies for finding standout pieces with small price tags. You should take my word for it when I say that these are genius hacks that will take your shopping experience to the next level. Read on to find out what you need to know.
1. The good stuff is "blended" in the back.
When there's only one size left of a particular item, sales associates are taught to take those onesies and "blend" them into a rack of other clothes. Basically, they hang that product behind a batch of clothes in a similar shade. If there's only one item of a certain style left, that usually means it was very popular and on trend so it sold fast. Look at the back of racks to find cute pieces you wouldn't normally see while walking around. They're literally hidden gems.
2. You can get a 10 percent discount on flawed or damaged products.
If you find something with a stain, tear, or missing button, a store manager will give you a 10 percent discount without blinking an eye. If the damage is too terrible, the store won't sell it to you and will return it back to the warehouse. This is a great way to get a little money off of your purchase if it's an easy stain to remove or button to sew.
3. Shop between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. on weekdays.
Most customers think it's best to rush into the store right when it opens (for many locations that's 9 a.m.), but they've got it all wrong. Employees are still unpackaging new products and putting misplaced items where they belong, so 10 a.m. on a weekday is the perfect time to go. There are very few customers, so you'll avoid a long line. Plus, the brand-new items were just put out on the floor. It doesn't get any better than that.
4. No, everything is not out on the floor.
If an employee tells you that all their stock is on the store floor for you to see, they're lying. Forever 21 stores have back rooms with all sorts of clothes and shoes. That being said, if a product is out, all the sizes are probably out. All the inventory of one particular item goes out all at once. But if you're looking for a new product you saw online, it might be hiding in the back, waiting for its debut.
5. Each section of the store is organized by style and targeted to specific women.
If you find yourself gravitating toward a certain area of the store, it's probably because all the clothing in that section falls under a particular style. Every few weeks, Forever 21's merchandising team goes into the store after business hours and organizes each section of the store by trends. The store is changing constantly. One of my favorite lines is called Forever 21 Contemporary. It consists of sleek basics with special details; the fabrics tend to be a higher quality than most of the other clothes.
6. There are online-only pieces that are on trend and well made.
If you're shopping online, keep an eye out for items labeled "web exclusive" right below the listed price. These are limited-edition pieces you won't find in stores. Most of these products are sourced from other brands with great fabric qualities and designs. I always find myself filling up my shopping cart with these products.
7. The store mannequins are changed every week.
One of the downsides of shopping at Forever 21 is that employees are absolutely not allowed to give you clothes off the mannequin. However, the mannequins have a clothing change day that occurs once a week. If you're longing for a product that a mannequin is wearing, you can give a sales associate your name and number, and they will call you when the outfit change is happening. They will usually keep those items on hold for you for one day so you can swing by and make your purchase.
8. Browse the #F21xMe hashtag on Instagram for product previews and inspiration.
Forever 21 partners with many influential bloggers and Instagrammers who feature the brand's clothing on their own social pages. If you search #F21xMe on Instagram, you'll see lots of cool pieces that will be out in stores soon after the influencers are posting them to their accounts. It's also an excellent place to look for outfit inspiration.
9. Look at the accessories last.
If you plan to try on clothes, wait to look at all of the accessories. You're not allowed to bring any jewelry, hats, or purses into the fitting room. Browse through those smaller items after you've tried on your picks. It will make your life much easier.
19 Times Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Said, "Babe, We're Twinning," Before Leaving the House
I'm pretty sure that when I get all glammed up in a dress and heels for dinner, my boyfriend throws on sweats just to spite me. (See what I mean?) But Prince Harry and Meghan Markle - my goodness! - they must spend a good portion of their day comparing material swatches. They announced their engagement in 2017, then took on 2018 with a vengeance, obviously pretty dedicated to twinning, if ever a couple was.
You won't believe how often Harry matched the checks on his tie to Meghan's plaid coat, and there were clearly plenty of times Harry sighed, "Babe, I just feel like jeans and a blazer," and Meghan said, "RT." I don't know about you, but I'm demanding a couple's shopping spree this upcoming weekend, and you better believe I'm snapping outfit selfies before we leave the palace - er, apartment.
15 Puffer Coats That Are Fashion-Girl-Approved For 2019
In the new year, we're taking stock of all the trends we'd like to see through 2019, and when it comes to coats, there's one clear winner. Puffer coats are the trend to watch in outerwear; they're both functional and fashionable, so you don't have to pick between the two. Plus, so many designers are making coats that are far from basic. With oversized silhouettes, cool fabrics like leather and velvet, and so many fun colors to choose from, we promise there's a puffer for you.
Gabrielle Union's Approach to Fashion This Year: Totally Fearless
"Very busy but will stop to slay," Gabrielle Union captioned an Instagram post of one of her many amazing street style looks from 2018. The actress has had a busy year: not only did she welcome a daughter, but she's been busy filming her new show LA's Finest and even found time to renovate a house. All the while, she's been killing it when it comes to fashion, never shying away from a sexy neckline, bright color, or tricky runway look. From her own designs to that dreamy Oscars gown, we're taking a look back at the many times Gabrielle ruled the fashion roost this year.
What Different Diamond Sizes Look Like IRL
Full disclosure: we've dreamt about our engagement ring - and the guy who will give it to us - for as long as we can remember. We're fashion girls, after all. Sparkly diamonds, the excuse to buy the dress of our dreams, and all things wedding-related are pretty much our ultimate weakness. But when it comes to carat size and technical stuff, you might as well be speaking a foreign language. Because we know that the carat is the weight of the diamond and - sigh - the higher the weight, the higher the price, but what does that even mean? What does it actually look like? On real-people fingers?
Luckily, we've got a few friends in high places, and Ritani, a diamond company with a factory in NYC, offered to shed some light on our rock-size dilemma. So without further ado, here's what real diamonds look like on real-girl hands. Now your only issue is discretely sending this to your S.O.
62 New Year's Eve Dresses That Are So Gorgeous, You'll Want to Wear Them Through 2019
If you're still stumped on where to find a fabulous New Year's Eve dress, we're here to be your shopping BFF. Whether you want something sparkly or velvety, head-turning or minimal, we have created your ultimate guide to the best options online. They come in a variety of price points, so there's something for every budget. Shop through our dazzling picks, and consider one for yourself before the clock strikes 12!
Let's Talk About That Racist Sea Monster Julie Andrews Voices in Aquaman For a Sec
Image Source: Getty / Eugene Gologursky, Everett Collection
Warning: spoilers for Aquaman ahead!
Just when I thought it wasn't possible to feel any more pumped for Aquaman, I found out that Julie Andrews would make an appearance in the movie. Entertainment Weekly broke the news that the Sound of Music and Mary Poppins actress would lend her voice to a mythical creature named Karathen, who plays a significant role in how Arthur Curry (Jason Momoa) unifies the underwater kingdom of Atlantis with the surface world.
Now that I've seen Aquaman, I can confirm that she is indeed in the film and that the role of Karathen also happens to be the movie's most bizarre one. Like, really bizarre.
To give you some background on when her character comes into the plot, Aquaman and Mera spend most of their time on the hunt for an ancient trident that holds immense power, which just so happens to be guarded by Andrews's Karathen. As Aquaman attempts to retrieve the trident from its watery grave, Karathen (and all her massive tentacles!) rises from the deep and starts attacking him . . . with racist slurs.
I repeat: Julie Andrews. Hurling racist slurs. At Jason Momoa. Under the sea.
You see, Karathen is pissed that Aquaman doesn't have pure Atlantean blood - his mother, played by Nicole Kidman, is Atlantean, but his father is a human - and proceeds to inform him of that by repeatedly calling him a "mongrel" and "half-breed," all in her crisp British accent. Once Aquaman does get a hold of the trident, therefore cementing his place in Atlantis's royal lineage, Karathen finally backs down, but the memory of her wild dialogue will live in infamy forever (at least it will in my head).
Image Source: Everett Collection
So, how did this cameo come to be? Of wrangling the iconic actress - who has taken home an Oscar, two Emmys, and three Grammys over the course of her impressive career, as a reminder - to play such a character, Aquaman producer Peter Safran told Entertainment Weekly that they "wanted the Karathen to have the voice of a classic British actress, albeit somewhat digitally altered. . . . And when we found out Julie was interested and available and excited to do it, casting her was a no-brainer."
Aquaman hit theaters only two days after the Mary Poppins sequel, Mary Poppins Returns, starring Emily Blunt. Although Dick Van Dyke returns for a new role, Andrews decided against making a cameo to keep the focus of the film on Blunt. Luckily she had the role of Karathen, an elite and racist sea monster, to keep her busy.
- Additional reporting by Brea Cubit
Ricky Martin and Husband Jwan Yosef Welcome a "Stellar" Baby Girl
Image Source: Getty / Steve Granitz
Ricky Martin is a dad once more! The 47-year-old singer and actor welcomed a baby girl with his husband, Jwan Yosef, this week. Ricky shared the news in an Instagram post on Monday with an adorable photo of his little one that he captioned in both English and Spanish: "We are beyond happy to announce that we have become parents to a beautiful and healthy baby girl, Lucia Martin-Yosef." He added, "It has been a special time for us and we cant wait to see where this stellar baby will take us. Both her beautiful brothers and me and [Jwan] have fallen in love with Lucia."
Ricky and Jwan tied the knot in January 2018 after two years of dating. They are parents to 10-year-old twin boys Matteo and Valentino, who Ricky welcomed via surrogate in 2008. During an interview after his wedding, Ricky said that he and Jwan were "going to get ready for many more kids." Congrats to the couple on their growing family! See little Lucia's first photo below.
This Year, Beyoncé Reached a Level of Icon We Didn’t Even Know Existed - Let’s Reflect
Beyoncé might have had an amazing year in 2017, but in true Queen Bey fashion, she stepped things up even more in 2018. She owned the Grammys without even hitting the stage, graced us with some of the year's best jams, and dominated at Coachella - and that's not even half of it. Read on to see some of best moments and accomplishments from Beyoncé's incredible year of growth.
56 of the Sexiest, Steamiest Celebrity Shirtless Moments From 2018 - So Far
We've been treated to some sexy sights of shirtless celebrities this year. We've already surpassed 2017 levels , and Chris Hemsworth, Jesse Williams, and Charlie Hunnam have all done their part by giving us peeks at their drool-worthy physiques on vacation. Oh, and let's not forget that Justin Bieber also blessed us with a few shirtless snaps. Keep reading to see some of the sexiest shirtless moments of 2018 - so far!
I'd Just Like to Point Out That Dwayne Johnson Has Been Looking Especially Good This Year
Look, it's no secret that Dwayne Johnson is incredibly sexy. Between his perfectly chiseled body and those incredibly hot tattoos, Dwayne could honestly rock our world anytime. However, this year, Dwayne seems to have taken the hotness meter up a few notches, because he's been looking good - and I mean real, real good. Whether he's in a suit, rocking a tux, or just chillin' in a sweater, Dwayne can do no wrong. Just see for yourself!
The Best Books Written by Black Women in 2018 - and Yes, They're All Magical
It's no secret that I love books by black women - whether they're transporting me to mythic, reimagined corners of Nigeria or planting me firmly in the deep South. There's a certain magic that comes with literature by black women, born of resilience and situated within a literary tradition that's committed to telling the stories of men and women navigating their worlds.
This year, we saw incredible bodies of work published by black women - from the former First Lady's record-breaking memoir to an array of books examining what it means to be black and female in spaces designed to undo your existence. We also saw sharp, innovative, masterworks of fiction, books that serve as windows into experiences so raw and poignant they feel like our own. In other words, it was lit - and certainly worth celebrating.
With that in mind, I've rounded up my top 10 books by black women this year, all of which are a must for your to-read list.
7 Times Harry, Meghan, William, and Kate Made 2018 Seem Better Than It Actually Was
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may be distancing themselves from Kate Middleton and Prince William at Kensington Palace, but when it comes to royal engagements, it's clear the Fab Four are as tight as ever. In fact, Will and Kate welcomed Meghan into the royal family even before she tied the knot with Harry when they invited her to join them for Christmas service last year. In 2018, we got a closer look at their bond each time they stepped out together, and with everything going on in the world, it was such a breath of fresh air. From Trooping the Colour to Princess Eugenie's wedding to the Remembrance Day service, look back at all the times the Fab Four delighted us with a royal appearance in 2018.
American Idol Winners: Where Are They Now?
In case you've forgotten, American Idol used to be wildly different from what it is now. Back in the first season on Fox in 2002, the show was hosted by Ryan Seacrest and Brian Dunkleman, and the judges were the brilliantly mean Simon Cowell, the always colorful Paula Abdul, and everyone's favorite dawg Randy Jackson. The first season also, quite surprisingly, produced one of the most successful winners to date: Kelly Clarkson. Idol was also my favorite show on television, but that is neither here nor there.
Over the years, the show has been canceled and rebooted on a new network and 15 more Idols have been crowned, some having far more success than others. The winners have gone on to release dozens of singles and albums, star in Broadway shows, write books, cross the country on tours, and take home a slew of awards. For a glimpse at what all the winners have been up to since their shows ended, keep reading.
17 Ways Our Beloved Barack Obama Continued Livin' It Up in 2018
Barack Obama had quite the eventful year in 2017: he celebrated his 25th wedding anniversary with wife Michelle, he had a kitesurfing challenge with Richard Branson, and his bromance with Prince Harry only got stronger. Even so, it looks like Barack was just getting started, because he continued the fun into 2018 - can you really blame him, though? I mean, he did run an entire country for eight years. Between traveling the world and celebrating sweet milestones with Michelle, I think I speak for everyone when I say, "Keep doing you, Barack!"
Can You Guess Which Movie Made the Most Money in 2018?
In news that should surprise absolutely no one: Hollywood made a sh*t-ton of money this year.
As usual, the overwhelming success of superhero films like Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War - yes, both of those came out way back at the beginning of this year, if you can believe it - undoubtedly led to movie studio executives making snow angels in piles of money every day of 2018. (Hey, it's what we would do.)
If you're wondering which movie took home the top honors this year at the domestic box office, IMDb has helpfully pulled together a list of the top 10 highest-grossing films as of Dec. 10, 2018. If you want both your mind and bank account boggled, check out the full list of films (and how much each of them have made so far) ahead.
50 Films That Are Perfect For Your Next Solo Movie Night
There are some days when all you want to do is go home, put on your comfiest clothes, get your favorite movie-watching spread together, and be alone. It's that treasured time where you have no social obligations and all you have to worry about is getting up to refresh your drink of choice - I'm talking about me time. As someone with a huge family with no sense of personal space, I know that me time is sacred, and I do some of my best movie-watching during it.
It's the perfect way to watch something that either makes you weep like a child, brings out your ugliest laugh, or convinces the musical theater nerd in you that yes, you could totally have a show on Broadway. It's also the perfect occasion for all your "I-know-this-is-terrible-but-I've-seen-it-five-times-and-I'm-going-for-a-sixth" faves, because there's no judgment. Trust me, I have a lot of those.
In honor of that sacred solo movie night, here are 50 films that are perfect for watching by yourself. There are romances, comedies, and tear-jerkers galore, but if you're in a mood for something a little darker, we've got you covered with some horror flicks, too.
20 New Thrillers and Mystery Novels That Will Freak You Out This Winter
Now that the colder months are upon us, that means the leaves are changing, the cocoa is hot, and there are a ton of brand new mysteries and thrillers just waiting to freak you out. With a seemingly neverending parade of exciting novels arriving on bookshelves over the next few months, you might be wondering which ones are the most deserving of your time. Fortunately, as a self-confessed thriller-aholic, I'm here to help you decide which kidnapped kid, cheating spouse, and brutal murders are worth spending a weekend with. I've gone ahead and whittled down the following list to titles that are coming out between September and December, so you'll basically never be without a twisted book this Fall and Winter.
Us: We Can't Get Over Some of the Theories Fans Have Put Together After Seeing the Trailer
In case you missed it, Twitter celebrated the holidays by freaking out over Jordan Peele's much-anticipated follow-up to Get Out. The Oscar-winning director debuted the first trailer for his upcoming horror film, Us, and fans subsequently lost their sh*t.
To be fair to the fans, the trailer is the perfect mixture of suspense and terror. What starts off as an innocent vacation to a family beach house quickly takes a turn for the insane when doppelgängers show up and start murdering everyone. The film's main protagonists, parents played by Black Panther's Lupita Nyong'o and Winston Duke, have to protect their children from said sinister doppelgängers - which Peele revealed to Entertainment Weekly are known as "The Tethered." The two-and-a-half-minute preview doesn't reveal too many solid details about the plot beyond that, but it was still more than enough to get the gears turning for fans.
Considering how Get Out was a complex maze of plot twists and metaphors that people are still puzzling out, we have no doubt that Us will be the same. So it's no shock that fans immediately began taking apart every second to form theories about everything from Nyong'o's tempo while snapping to Luniz's "I Got 5 on It" to the use of rabbits throughout the trailer. Though Peele has stated that the story of Us isn't about race, that definitely hasn't stopped fans from creating parallels between the imagery in the trailer and real life. Check out some of the most intriguing theories ahead, as well as some hilarious reactions to the trailer in general.
We'd Watch 2018's Sexiest Video Moments by Female Rappers in Private, If We Were You
We were treated to so many sexy songs and music videos this year. However, if we had to choose, we'd say that female rappers definitely brought the most heat in 2018. From Nicki Minaj to Cardi B to Iggy Azalea, these videos are so hot, they could probably start a nationwide heatwave. Yep, they're that sexy. Check them out ahead, but fair warning: you may want to watch them in private.
14 Trader Joe's Party Staples For Busy Hosts
When it comes to hosting parties, we take a page out of Ina Garten's book and supplement from-scratch items with store bought saviors. One of our favorite resources is Trader Joe's; not only does the supermarket offer up a variety of creative, international options, but the prices also can't be beat. Keep reading for 14 finds you need to try for yourself.
See Ya Later, Unicorn Cakes - Pinterest Predicts These 10 Food Trends Will Be Big in 2019
Food brings us all together - around the table, around the world. With more than 23 billion recipes and dining ideas to discover, Pinterest has got you covered from breakfast to late-night snacks. What's on the menu for 2019? Healthy, sustainable meals with unusual ingredients, according to what millions of people are searching on Pinterest. Here are the top 10 surprising food trends to look out for in 2019.
14 Trader Joe's Party Staples For Busy Hosts
When it comes to hosting parties, we take a page out of Ina Garten's book and supplement from-scratch items with store bought saviors. One of our favorite resources is Trader Joe's; not only does the supermarket offer up a variety of creative, international options, but the prices also can't be beat. Keep reading for 14 finds you need to try for yourself.
See Ya Later, Unicorn Cakes - Pinterest Predicts These 10 Food Trends Will Be Big in 2019
Food brings us all together - around the table, around the world. With more than 23 billion recipes and dining ideas to discover, Pinterest has got you covered from breakfast to late-night snacks. What's on the menu for 2019? Healthy, sustainable meals with unusual ingredients, according to what millions of people are searching on Pinterest. Here are the top 10 surprising food trends to look out for in 2019.
Want to Try the Whole30 Diet? Here's Everything You Can and Cannot Eat
With so many diets out there today, it can be overwhelming choosing the right nutrition regimen for yourself. If you're not sure which one to go with, the Whole30 plan might be a good place to start since it's only a 30-day commitment. The goal of the Whole30 diet is to eliminate certain food groups that might have a negative effect on your health - not just weight - from mysterious aches to chronic fatigue. Then, after the 30 days are up, you'll hopefully have a better idea of which foods you should permanently cut out and which ones you can reintroduce to your diet.
Unlike many diets that focus on eating less, the Whole30 diet emphasizes eating healthier, which might make it the most sustainable diet yet.
Start 2019 Fresh With These 10 Bestselling Sneakers on Amazon
There's no better feeling than starting off the new year with a fresh pair of kicks. You don't have to drop a ton of cash on the perfect pair, either, because it's easier than ever to find high-quality brands at affordable price points. We searched on Amazon because the online retailer has so much to choose from. We found everything from Adidas to Nike and New Balance. Shop these top picks, starting at just $30.
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