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 1 mai 2017
Paul Wesley and Phoebe Tonkin Have a Romantic Date Night After Their Split
There might be hope for Paul Wesley and Phoebe Tonkin's romance after all. The couple, who ended their four-year relationship in March, recently enjoyed a dinner date at Madeo restaurant in LA on April 6. The former couple looked to be in good spirits as they chatted outside the restaurant, and like a true gentleman, Paul even opened Phoebe's car door for her. While the two reportedly remain good friends, their recent outings together have certainly raised a few eyebrows. After holding hands during their stroll through the farmers market last month, The Originals actress added even more fuel to the "are they back together" fire by posting a snapshot of Paul on Instagram.
Paul Wesley and Phoebe Tonkin Have a Romantic Date Night After Their Split
There might be hope for Paul Wesley and Phoebe Tonkin's romance after all. The couple, who ended their four-year relationship in March, recently enjoyed a dinner date at Madeo restaurant in LA on April 6. The former couple looked to be in good spirits as they chatted outside the restaurant, and like a true gentleman, Paul even opened Phoebe's car door for her. While the two reportedly remain good friends, their recent outings together have certainly raised a few eyebrows. After holding hands during their stroll through the farmers market last month, The Originals actress added even more fuel to the "are they back together" fire by posting a snapshot of Paul on Instagram.
26 of the Most Memorable Looks From Met Galas Past
Fashion's most anticipated night out has always been a feast for the eyes, especially in terms of beauty. We've rounded up 26 of the most iconic looks from Met Galas past. Click through to take a walk down memory lane . . . or should we say the red carpet? Be sure to check back for more Met Gala coverage, and tune into this year's red carpet live on May 1!
26 of the Most Memorable Looks From Met Galas Past
Fashion's most anticipated night out has always been a feast for the eyes, especially in terms of beauty. We've rounded up 26 of the most iconic looks from Met Galas past. Click through to take a walk down memory lane . . . or should we say the red carpet? Be sure to check back for more Met Gala coverage, and tune into this year's red carpet live on May 1!
How Whitney Houston Factors Into Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warwick's 5-Year Feud
If Ryan Murphy needs any inspiration for Feud's third season, he might want to consider the drama unfolding between Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warwick. The "Respect" singer, who recently announced plans for retirement, accused fellow soul diva Dionne Warwick of making "libelous" statements about her on Wednesday, according to the Associated Press. Aretha notably covered Dionne's hits "Walk on By" and "I Say a Little Prayer" in the late '60s, but apparently the bad blood between them has been simmering for years. "At this point, it isn't about an apology, it's about libel," she said. "We've never been friends, and I don't think that Dionne has ever liked me."
The drama allegedly all started five years ago at Whitney Houston's funeral. Dionne was making a speech in front of the funeral-goers and introduced Aretha before realizing that she wasn't actually there. "'Ree's not here, but she is here," she said, using the 75-year-old's nickname. "She loves Whitney as if she were born to her. She is her godmother." Though Aretha insists her reason for not being there was genuine - she was resting her swollen feet so she'd be in good enough shape to follow through with a contractually obligated performance later that night at Radio City Music Hall - she was angry her name had been brought up at all, especially since she's not actually Whitney's godmother (a fact she claims Dionne is well aware of, since Dionne and Whitney are cousins).
In the days following the funeral, Whitney's mother, Cissy Houston, clarified that Darlene Love was actually her daughter's godmother, but in Aretha's eyes, the damage had been done. She planned to address Dionne's mistake herself, but said, "There's been so much going on around [Whitney], around the service, around the drugs, around her and Bobby [Brown] supposed to be fighting, I didn't want to add anything to that and I didn't want to be a part of that." Apparently five years is long enough. After sending the AP "a lengthy fax" about her beef with Dionne, she hopped on the phone to describe their most recent run-in, and said that Dionne's statement at the funeral was intentional. "She blatantly lied on me . . . fully well knowing what she was doing."
While both singers were at the Tribeca Film Festival's premiere of the documentary Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives, Dionne reportedly approached Aretha backstage. "She said, 'Give me a hug.' I said, 'Oh hell no. You couldn't be serious,'" Aretha recalled. Although no video footage of the incident exists (that we know of), we can only imagine it went something like the time Aretha famously denied Patti Labelle a hug at a performance at the White House. As for a response to Aretha's fighting words, Dionne released a statement through her representative, Angelo Ellerbee: "She will not dignify a response to the statement made by Aretha Franklin."
How Whitney Houston Factors Into Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warwick's 5-Year Feud
If Ryan Murphy needs any inspiration for Feud's third season, he might want to consider the drama unfolding between Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warwick. The "Respect" singer, who recently announced plans for retirement, accused fellow soul diva Dionne Warwick of making "libelous" statements about her on Wednesday, according to the Associated Press. Aretha notably covered Dionne's hits "Walk on By" and "I Say a Little Prayer" in the late '60s, but apparently the bad blood between them has been simmering for years. "At this point, it isn't about an apology, it's about libel," she said. "We've never been friends, and I don't think that Dionne has ever liked me."
The drama allegedly all started five years ago at Whitney Houston's funeral. Dionne was making a speech in front of the funeral-goers and introduced Aretha before realizing that she wasn't actually there. "'Ree's not here, but she is here," she said, using the 75-year-old's nickname. "She loves Whitney as if she were born to her. She is her godmother." Though Aretha insists her reason for not being there was genuine - she was resting her swollen feet so she'd be in good enough shape to follow through with a contractually obligated performance later that night at Radio City Music Hall - she was angry her name had been brought up at all, especially since she's not actually Whitney's godmother (a fact she claims Dionne is well aware of, since Dionne and Whitney are cousins).
In the days following the funeral, Whitney's mother, Cissy Houston, clarified that Darlene Love was actually her daughter's godmother, but in Aretha's eyes, the damage had been done. She planned to address Dionne's mistake herself, but said, "There's been so much going on around [Whitney], around the service, around the drugs, around her and Bobby [Brown] supposed to be fighting, I didn't want to add anything to that and I didn't want to be a part of that." Apparently five years is long enough. After sending the AP "a lengthy fax" about her beef with Dionne, she hopped on the phone to describe their most recent run-in, and said that Dionne's statement at the funeral was intentional. "She blatantly lied on me . . . fully well knowing what she was doing."
While both singers were at the Tribeca Film Festival's premiere of the documentary Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives, Dionne reportedly approached Aretha backstage. "She said, 'Give me a hug.' I said, 'Oh hell no. You couldn't be serious,'" Aretha recalled. Although no video footage of the incident exists (that we know of), we can only imagine it went something like the time Aretha famously denied Patti Labelle a hug at a performance at the White House. As for a response to Aretha's fighting words, Dionne released a statement through her representative, Angelo Ellerbee: "She will not dignify a response to the statement made by Aretha Franklin."
Goldie Hawn's Life Advice Will Make You Want to Kick So Much Professional Ass
Goldie Hawn is, and will forever be, a badass. The legendary actress recently sat down with Interview magazine for an in-depth chat with none other than her daughter, Kate Hudson. (Note: Before the two even get started, Kate's brother Oliver calls. After Kate says, "Yo, I'm interviewing mom right now," Goldie says to tell him she needs her car back. When he says he still needs it, Goldie tells Kate to hang up on him.) The incredibly close mother-daughter duo then chat about everything from why Goldie took a 15-year break from Hollywood (she costars in this year's Snatched with Amy Schumer) to how she handled her haters over the years. See her best quotes below.
- On what first brought her to California: "I was almost 20, and I was going to dance in a show in a theater across from Disneyland. I had never flown over the entire United States before. I had 250 dollars saved, but my mom bought my ticket because I'd taken 200 of those dollars and bought a dog. [Hudson laughs] My priorities might have been mixed up, but this little puppy poodle came with me on the plane, and I'll never forget flying across the desert. I wrote - granted this was after one or two Bloody Marys - but I wrote in my diary, 'If anyone could doubt the existence of God, then they have to look again.' It was a profound spiritual experience, going to where I could see space and nothing else. As far as I could see was as far as my spirit went. And I had no idea where my life was going. I believed this was a short gig and that I would come home and marry a Jewish dentist and have a beautiful little house with a picket fence and raise children and have a dancing school."
- On standing up for herself in Hollywood: "Liberation is an interesting word, because you can be liberated from external things, and also from your internal dialogue. During the era when women were burning their bras - which, by the way, they never actually did - but when women were first becoming liberated, I was 23. And I met a woman who asked, 'Don't you feel bad because you're sort of acting like the stupid airhead blond?' And I totally surprised myself. I said, 'Liberation can also come from the inside.' My sense of liberation and the freedom to speak the way I want to and to feel solid in my shoes was getting stronger and stronger. That's what helps me move through other people's perceptions of how I should or should not be liberated. I would never listen to those rules. Don't tell me I can't do that. Watch me. Don't tell me I can't direct this movie. Watch me."
- On why she waited so long to make another movie: "Because I believe that life is about doing. It's about changing. It's about transitioning. I can't imagine, as a human being, not being able to grow. When I turned 50, I asked some of my girlfriends, all actresses of the same age, 'What are we going to do now?' I wanted to go live somewhere for a while, learn archaeology, or take part in healing the world on some level. I wanted to dig deep and say, 'Who am I now? What do I have to offer? What do I have to learn?' I started learning about the brain, psychology. And after 9/11, I decided, 'I know what I'm going to do.' I ended up writing two books and creating MindUP [a neuroscience, mindfulness, and positive psychology-based curriculum for children, grades pre-K through 12]. It's now in Jordan, Serbia, the UK, America, Canada, Hong Kong. I never looked back. I never wished to be acting again. I was so engaged."
Goldie Hawn's Life Advice Will Make You Want to Kick So Much Professional Ass
Goldie Hawn is, and will forever be, a badass. The legendary actress recently sat down with Interview magazine for an in-depth chat with none other than her daughter, Kate Hudson. (Note: Before the two even get started, Kate's brother Oliver calls. After Kate says, "Yo, I'm interviewing mom right now," Goldie says to tell him she needs her car back. When he says he still needs it, Goldie tells Kate to hang up on him.) The incredibly close mother-daughter duo then chat about everything from why Goldie took a 15-year break from Hollywood (she costars in this year's Snatched with Amy Schumer) to how she handled her haters over the years. See her best quotes below.
- On what first brought her to California: "I was almost 20, and I was going to dance in a show in a theater across from Disneyland. I had never flown over the entire United States before. I had 250 dollars saved, but my mom bought my ticket because I'd taken 200 of those dollars and bought a dog. [Hudson laughs] My priorities might have been mixed up, but this little puppy poodle came with me on the plane, and I'll never forget flying across the desert. I wrote - granted this was after one or two Bloody Marys - but I wrote in my diary, 'If anyone could doubt the existence of God, then they have to look again.' It was a profound spiritual experience, going to where I could see space and nothing else. As far as I could see was as far as my spirit went. And I had no idea where my life was going. I believed this was a short gig and that I would come home and marry a Jewish dentist and have a beautiful little house with a picket fence and raise children and have a dancing school."
- On standing up for herself in Hollywood: "Liberation is an interesting word, because you can be liberated from external things, and also from your internal dialogue. During the era when women were burning their bras - which, by the way, they never actually did - but when women were first becoming liberated, I was 23. And I met a woman who asked, 'Don't you feel bad because you're sort of acting like the stupid airhead blond?' And I totally surprised myself. I said, 'Liberation can also come from the inside.' My sense of liberation and the freedom to speak the way I want to and to feel solid in my shoes was getting stronger and stronger. That's what helps me move through other people's perceptions of how I should or should not be liberated. I would never listen to those rules. Don't tell me I can't do that. Watch me. Don't tell me I can't direct this movie. Watch me."
- On why she waited so long to make another movie: "Because I believe that life is about doing. It's about changing. It's about transitioning. I can't imagine, as a human being, not being able to grow. When I turned 50, I asked some of my girlfriends, all actresses of the same age, 'What are we going to do now?' I wanted to go live somewhere for a while, learn archaeology, or take part in healing the world on some level. I wanted to dig deep and say, 'Who am I now? What do I have to offer? What do I have to learn?' I started learning about the brain, psychology. And after 9/11, I decided, 'I know what I'm going to do.' I ended up writing two books and creating MindUP [a neuroscience, mindfulness, and positive psychology-based curriculum for children, grades pre-K through 12]. It's now in Jordan, Serbia, the UK, America, Canada, Hong Kong. I never looked back. I never wished to be acting again. I was so engaged."
The 7 Best Sex Positions For a Female Orgasm
There are certain positions every women has in her own arsenal, guaranteed to make her orgasm. Knowing what works for you is a surefire way to make sure you reach your peak. After all, orgasms are no easy feat.
Only 25 percent of women orgasm during intercourse (penetration) alone. In many cases, this has a lot to do (read: almost everything to do) with the clitoris. A lot of women need to have clitoral stimulation to get off. Unfortunately, many sex positions just do not deliver. Luckily, there are some wonderful positions that are both sexy as hell and also prioritize female pleasure. Here are seven of our favorite sex positions for female orgasm that combine penetration with penis or toy and clitoral stimulation.
1. Sit to Stand
How to do it: Fold the top half of your body over the bed, on your back. Have your partner stand behind you and enter you from behind. You can keep your legs on the floor or wrap them around your partner's waist.
Why we love it: "I truly despise any position that requires work, so sit to stand is my go to. My boyfriend loves it because he doesn't have to work that hard since he's standing and thrusting. I like bringing a vibe into it," says Julie, 25.
2. Doggy style
How to do it: Get on all fours. Have your partner enter you from behind. You can bring a finger vibe to use with one hand for extra stimulation.
Why we love it: "Doggy style allows for you or your partner to reach around and stimulate your clitoris," says Polly Rodriguez, sex expert and CEO of Unbound.
"Doggy style remains my fave for lots of reasons - there's something super animalistic about it (I mean obviously hence the name) that just makes me feel dirty in a good way when I'm doing it in this position, and I love that the position lets either my partner or me (or whatever new toy I'm trying out) add some clit stimulation into the mix," says writer, Danielle Page, 29.
3. Lotus
How to do it: Have your partner sit up on the bed. Lower yourself on top so that you are facing each other. This intimate position let's you rock back and forth for optimal clitoral stimulation.
Why we love it: "I love how intimate Lotus feels. I can kiss my partner and get a lot of grind-action against my clit. It's the best, " Brianna, 31, tells us.
4. Lifted Missionary
How to do it: Lie on your back with your legs open, and put two pillows under your butt. The extra lift will make entering you easier for your partner, and gives you much needed g-spot and clitoral stimulation.
Why we love it: "I love missionary because I love feeling a man on top of me, " Erin*, 27, tells us.
"When I put a few pillows under my butt, I'm able to align my public bone with my partner's pelvis, " says Grace*, 31. "This is called coital alignment technique and it makes for easier orgasm."
5. Cowgirl
How to do it: Climb on top of your partner like a cowgirl. Mix up your moves between grinding and larger thrusts. You can utilize a finger vibrator over extra clitoral stimulation. This can help make orgasm easier.
Why we love it: [When] you [are] on top, you have more control over clitoral contact and touching yourself)," Rodriguez tells us.
"I like straddling him on the couch while he's almost kind of slouching, and I can spread my legs wide enough to grind my clit on his pelvis," says Candice, 23.
6. Flat Doggy
How to do it: Lie on your stomach, legs closed, and have your partner enter you from behind. This take on the classic doggy style position makes orgasm easier by allowing for G-spot stimulation. It also takes pressure off you, as you get to lie down on your stomach and relax.
Why we love it: "Me and my boyfriend are currently loving doggy style, but really low to the bed (like my hips at a very obtuse angle) with my legs closed between his. I like it because I like being able to feel his whole body on top of mine, and doggy is great because he can hit the G-spot. Having my legs closed just makes all the sensations better for both of us because it makes me tighter," says Gabby, 22.
7. Open-Legged Spoon
How to do it: Instead of lying on your side like you would a classic spoon, lie on your back and spread your legs. Have your partner lie on their side and enter you from below.
Why we love it: "This position is amazing for lazy people like me. I get to just lie back and use a vibrator on my clit, without having to worry about anything else. I also love how sexy I look from this angle with so little effort," says Maria*, 32. "It's easy for me to come like this because I know I look great, which makes me feel confident. I know he loves it too, because he gets to just lie there and thrust."
*Names have been changed to ensure confidentiality.
Naturally, Beyoncé Ordering Food at a Restaurant Has Become a Meme
Beyoncé shared a handful of snaps from a recent night out with Jay Z and DJ Khaled, including one of her growing baby bump in a stunning red dress, close-ups of her accessories and beauty look, and a shot of her ordering from a restaurant menu. The last photo caught the attention of fans on social media, and the "Sorry" singer quickly and naturally turned into (another) amazing meme - but really, haven't we all ordered vegan ice water? It's not that weird. See the best reactions to Beyoncé's fine dining experience.
This Latina Mom Is Putting Her Own Spin on Parenting
At just 6 months old, Dominican-born actress Dania Ramirez's parents moved to the US in pursuit of the American dream. Though she was raised by her grandmother, the absence of her mom left an important piece missing from her life. After achieving success on the big screen, Dania went on to have children of her own and discovered a beautiful relationship with her mother along the way, too. Watch the video above to see how love can bind differences and change lives, no matter who you are or where you are.
We've partnered with JCPenney to show how the power of motherhood can unite generations.
Naturally, Beyoncé Ordering Food at a Restaurant Has Become a Meme
Beyoncé shared a handful of snaps from a recent night out with Jay Z and DJ Khaled, including one of her growing baby bump in a stunning red dress, close-ups of her accessories and beauty look, and a shot of her ordering from a restaurant menu. The last photo caught the attention of fans on social media, and the "Sorry" singer quickly and naturally turned into (another) amazing meme - but really, haven't we all ordered vegan ice water? It's not that weird. See the best reactions to Beyoncé's fine dining experience.
After His Mom Disowned Him For Wearing Makeup, This Teen Had the Bravest Reaction
Jauan Durbin is a freshman at Morehouse College, and at 18 years old, he's determined to live his truest life, even if he doesn't have his mother's support. Jauan recently posted a screenshot of a conversation with his mother on Twitter, where she berated him and basically disowned him for wearing makeup . . . makeup that looked seriously amazing, if you were wondering.
"I do not approve of this bullshyt," his mother wrote alongside the photo of her son in full glam. "Wth is wrong with you? I am so disappointed. You are a male. Wth do u have on eyelashes, eyebrows and makeup. I'm completely done."
While Jauan responded to his mother with a simple "Ok," it was his tweet that has everyone reading it applauding him. "Lol, this hurts," he wrote. "It really does. But I'm going to live in my truth until the day that I die."
Since he posted the conversation on Twitter, the reactions came flooding in. While some were nasty, most people were praising him for his strength and bomb look. He said he received hundreds of private Twitter messages thanking him for being so bold and standing up to his mother, the way many people wish they had the courage to do.
Jauan was truly hurt by his mother, writing, "I want to cry man. My mom ain't disappointed in me because I'm on the streets not doing anything with my life. She's disappointed because I have on makeup. I'm in college. Heavily involved in Student Government and bettering myself and my community. And she's disappointed in me because I have on makeup because she feels makeup is only for women. I'm sick. I've never felt like this."
Though it's heartbreaking to see that his mother doesn't seem to accept this form of happiness, Twitter users from all over have shown their support for him. Keep reading to see some of the empowering responses to Jauan's conversation with his mother and remember to always try to be your glowing, true self!
Galaxy Brushes Are Here to Add Extraterrestrial Excitement to Your Makeup Bag
It may seem like there's a new mermaid or unicorn-inspired makeup brush collection launching each day, but it doesn't make them any less magical. Peachy Queen is the latest brand to offer whimsical brush sets featuring chic gold mermaid tails, dreamy pastel unicorn-tail bristles, and - our new favorite - sparky multicolored galaxy tools.
These dreamy sets will surely stand out on your vanity if you're too lazy to do Spring cleaning. The Peachy Queen ones are extra fabulous thanks to the gorgeous colors (they look filtered IRL!) and shapes (just check out the Ziggy Stardust set, which looks like beautiful Harry Potter wands). Keep reading to see some of our favorites, all under $30!
20 of the Cutest Korean Beauty Products You've Ever Seen
Korean beauty products are famous for being innovative, offering skin-loving ingredients and, frequently, adorable packaging. The over-the-top cute factor of K-beauty is one of the reasons the category has surged in popularity in recent years. Plus, it makes the goods completely irresistible.
Korean brands are great at transforming ordinary, boring products into items that seem to come straight from the sugar-filled imagination of a child. While in the United States we wrap our hair in boring velcro rollers, in Korea you can get your voluminous 'do from strawberry-shaped ones. Even hand creams in Korea are delightful. Whether you prefer a cream-cheese- or penguin-inspired bottle, there's a lotion that will get you excited to moisturize.
If you're tempted to upgrade to the most loveable products around, you're in luck. We've rounded up the cutest kitschy cosmetics that are sure to make you smile. Read on to see all the delightful beauty picks.
27 Hollywood Ladies and Their Hot Younger Guys
When it comes to celebrity relationships, is age really just a number? According to a recent study, the less of an age difference there is between partners, the more likely a relationship will last. While troves of Hollywood men have been notorious for testing the limits, A-list ladies have also given junior companions a shot. Read on to discover the most memorable relationships between famous women and men who are at least five years younger, and then find out which celebrity couples have stayed together the longest.
Helix Tattoos Are the Adorable New Trend Guaranteed to Replace Your Earrings
If you didn't have pierced ears growing up and found yourself jealous of your trendy toddler friends with studs, this new trend is the ultimate way to make up for the lack of bling in your youth. First spotted by Elle UK, helix tattoos are the adorable new tattoo trend taking over Instagram, and by the time you're done reading this, you'll probably want them to take over your ears as well. The helix is the thin curved portion on the side of your ear, and it's being spiced up with some awesome ink.
While heartilage piercings were unquestionably our favorite piercing trend, helix tattoos are right up there for favorite ear decor. With these elegant designs, you can always look chic (you don't have to worry about your tat falling off the way earrings could!). But the best part is, there are so many unique ways you can design your ear tattoo. Between flowers, simple lines, and even tiny leaves, the possibilities are endless. Keep reading to see photos of the awesome helix tattoos.
Why 1 Mom Called Out a Sephora Employee After Shopping With Her Self-Conscious Teen Daughter
Even the most seasoned beauty pro can feel a little intimidated by the product-packed wonderland that is Sephora. Add insecurities into that mix, and what should be a simple shopping trip can be a seriously stressful one. A mom in Windsor, Ontario, took to Spotted In to share how a recent visit to Sephora could have gone that way for her self-conscious teen daughter, but the mother-daughter duo left the store with renewed confidence.
"My daughter is 15 years old is having a very hard time with her self-esteem," explained the mother, who disclosed that her child is being bullied for her appearance - including her hair, skin, and eyebrows - at school. "It breaks my heart to say that this bullying has convinced my beautiful daughter that she is ugly, and her formerly outgoing and peppy personality has dimmed."
In order to help her feel more comfortable at school, this mom (reluctantly) took her on a trip to Sephora to buy a few beauty products. "I was against this at first, but if there was a possibility of it boosting her confidence, I decided it would be alright," she said. After a bit of browsing, the two were approached by a petite blond sales associate, Shayna - someone who looks like the girl's bullies in school - who asked if she could provide any assistance.
"Both myself and my daughter sometimes feel intimidated in this store," the mother admitted. "The girls are often made up beautifully, they exude confidence . . . for someone new to makeup, or someone with pre-existing self-esteem issues, it's easy to feel somehow inferior, regardless of their sunny disposition," she said. "This time, I was blown away."
Not only did Shayna help them shop, but according to this one happy mom, she went above and beyond the duties of the average sales associate by making her daughter feel comfortable and confident. "She pointed out the areas that my daughter has been most insecure about lately . . . and expressed how beautiful she thought they were," gushed the mother. "SERIOUSLY girl, are you psychic???"
She went on, "They talked about what had been going on at school, self-confidence, what truly makes a person beautiful, and how makeup is just something to enhance your natural beauty. These are things I've been trying unsuccessfully to convey."
While not everyone can expect to experience such a heartwarming moment during their next visit to Sephora, it inspires us to know that there are sales associates at the beauty retailer that are incredibly helpful, especially in young women's times of need. Read the heartwarming post below in full.
27 Hollywood Ladies and Their Hot Younger Guys
When it comes to celebrity relationships, is age really just a number? According to a recent study, the less of an age difference there is between partners, the more likely a relationship will last. While troves of Hollywood men have been notorious for testing the limits, A-list ladies have also given junior companions a shot. Read on to discover the most memorable relationships between famous women and men who are at least five years younger, and then find out which celebrity couples have stayed together the longest.
Are You Making These 6 Terrible Hair-Washing Mistakes?
You already know that overwashing your hair is a major no-no and that using superhot water can wreak havoc on your strands. You're also probably aware that applying conditioner to your scalp makes for an oily head, and that excessive scrubbing can weaken the shaft and leave you with a tangled mess. These are all commonly discussed mistakes, but with the help of notable hair care experts, we're going beyond the basic hair-washing don't and dishing on the less-often-discussed blunders. Here's to a million glorious hair days in your future, babe.
Shea Moisture's Latest Ad Has Even Its Most Loyal Customers Enraged
For years, Shea Moisture has prided itself on catering to the hair product needs of women of color, but the brand's most recent advertisement has even the most loyal fans really pissed off. The ad, which featured mostly white women, spoke about "hair hate" and the tagline encourages users to "embrace hair love in every form." While the company may simply have been trying to be more inclusive in the ad, its supporters claimed that Shea Moisture abandoned its core brand and audience.
A post from Curly Nikki said that this is "the perfect example of gentrification." It explained that the one black woman in the beginning and the group seen in the last three seconds take away everything Shea Moisture has represented through the years. "I don't understand why inclusive campaigns aimed at white women necessarily exclude dark skinned Black women," Nikki said herself.
Twitter users also went off on the brand, questioning what "inclusiveness" means to Shea Moisture and some even boycotting its products. Just four days later, Shea Moisture deleted the video and issued an apology.
"Wow, okay – so guys, listen, we really f-ed this one up," the company opened the apology on Facebook. "Please know that our intention was not – and would never be – to disrespect our community, and as such, we are pulling this piece immediately because it does not represent what we intended to communicate. You guys know that we have always stood for inclusion in beauty and have always fought for our community and given them credit for not just building our business but for shifting the beauty landscape."
Keep reading to see some of the Twitter reactions and understand just how horrified some of Shea Moisture's fans were.
How Ellen DeGeneres Gave 1 Makeup-Loving Boy the Surprise of a Lifetime
In case you haven't seen him on Little Big Shots, it's time you became acquainted with Welsh singer Reuben De Maid. The 12-year-old performer recently stopped by The Ellen DeGeneres Show to show off his immense talents, but it was then that Ellen revealed to the audience that he's not just musically skilled!
"There's something else that you love as much as singing, what is that?" she asked. "Makeup," he responded. Audience members and show viewers could see that the young singer was wearing a glamorous look that included bronzed skin, a smoky eye, and defined brows. Reuben shared that ever since he was 8, he has spent hours watching beauty tutorials on YouTube.
Unfortunately, Reuben has been teased for wearing makeup to school. "I used to get bullied a lot," he said. "In my drama group I got hit, punched, and kicked." He said that after two months of trying to brush off the snide remarks, he stood up to his bullies and eventually transferred schools. He still embraces his passion for cosmetics and even told Ellen that he'd like to have his own makeup brand someday.
It was then that the talk show host shared a surprise: a gift of Reuben's very own miniature YouTube studio. It featured a backdrop of the Kardashians (who serve as a major source of inspiration for him), a ring light for crafting well-lit tutorials, plenty of makeup, and a MacBook.
Keep reading to watch the clip from his appearance on Ellen's show and to see some of Reuben's best beauty masterpieces, then visit his YouTube channel. Keep an eye on the feed, because he's definitely destined for stardom!
1 Life-Changing Airplane Hack From Someone Who Flies First Class Often
If you're going to take airplane travel advice from anyone, you should to take it from someone who flies first class frequently. A multimillionaire app developer recently shared his clever (and surprisingly affordable) airplane hack for securing an entire three seat row to himself:
Fly first class? No need. When I fly alone, I just book an economy class ticket in the center of a three seat row. Usually this means that in a not so full flight, nobody will want to sit next to you when they can sit somewhere else. If it's a couple, they wouldn't want to be separated. When checking in, you can try to change your seat, and you can tell from there, where the empty seats are. Now that you have the whole row to yourself, you can lift up the armrests and basically have a giant couch that is wider than what first class and business class gets.
Yup, it really is that simple. Another pro tip straight from a POPSUGAR editor: "Get the aisle and window if you're flying with someone. Middle seats are often left empty because no one wants them." So there you have it. No more stressing about sitting next to the guy or gal who snores too loud. Now go forth and book your airline tickets!
If You Thought Nikki Bella Looked Good in the Ring, Just Wait Till You See Her in a Bikini
As a two-time and longest reigning Women's Divas champion, Nikki Bella knows how to bring the heat on WWE Smackdown and on social media. When she's not sharing photos of fiancé John Cena or twin sister Brie, the 33-year-old wrestler is showing off her bikini body (and sometimes even her birthday suit). Whether she's posing poolside or simply taking a bathroom selfie, it's clear that Nikki definitely knows her angles.
These Graduating Latinas Are Honoring Their Heritage With Inspiring DIY Caps
Every year, we marvel at the creativity of graduates who customize their caps. We've seen DIY ideas that feature inspiring quotes and even ones that proclaim Disney princess obsessions. But lately, we've been completely blown away by how Latinas are using their caps to honor their parents and roots.
Instagram accounts like latinarebels and xicanisma spotlight some of the best designs from Latinas. Keep scrolling to see our favorite designs - but be prepared to get teary-eyed, because these are incredibly touching!
If You Thought Nikki Bella Looked Good in the Ring, Just Wait Till You See Her in a Bikini
As a two-time and longest reigning Women's Divas champion, Nikki Bella knows how to bring the heat on WWE Smackdown and on social media. When she's not sharing photos of fiancé John Cena or twin sister Brie, the 33-year-old wrestler is showing off her bikini body (and sometimes even her birthday suit). Whether she's posing poolside or simply taking a bathroom selfie, it's clear that Nikki definitely knows her angles.
These Graduating Latinas Are Honoring Their Heritage With Inspiring DIY Caps
Every year, we marvel at the creativity of graduates who customize their caps. We've seen DIY ideas that feature inspiring quotes and even ones that proclaim Disney princess obsessions. But lately, we've been completely blown away by how Latinas are using their caps to honor their parents and roots.
Instagram accounts like latinarebels and xicanisma spotlight some of the best designs from Latinas. Keep scrolling to see our favorite designs - but be prepared to get teary-eyed, because these are incredibly touching!
Are You Making These 6 Terrible Hair-Washing Mistakes?
You already know that overwashing your hair is a major no-no and that using superhot water can wreak havoc on your strands. You're also probably aware that applying conditioner to your scalp makes for an oily head, and that excessive scrubbing can weaken the shaft and leave you with a tangled mess. These are all commonly discussed mistakes, but with the help of notable hair care experts, we're going beyond the basic hair-washing don't and dishing on the less-often-discussed blunders. Here's to a million glorious hair days in your future, babe.
How 1 Small Beauty Mistake Caused a Woman's Horrifying Third-Degree Burns
Fans of yoga know that a few drops of essential oil can enhance the experience - but one woman found out the hard way that they can also be incredibly harmful. Scary Mommy reported that Facebook user Elise Nguyen suffered second- and third-degree burns after failing to read the fine print on her oils.
Elise explained that prior to a hot yoga class, she applied Doterra essential oils to her skin, then immediately followed her workout with a session in a tanning bed. "The next day, I noticed irritation where I applied the oil," she said. In the days to follow, she developed horrifying chemical burns. "Turns out, there is a teeny tiny caution on the oil that states 'stay out of sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after application' or something like that," she shared. "I developed second and third degree burns from the oils."
The terrifying images (seen below) are likely due to a case of phytophotodermatitis, which occurs when photosensitizing compounds in certain foods (such as citrus fruits, a popular source of essential oils) are exposed to UV. A chemical reaction takes place, resulting in skin issues from hyperpigmentation to burns. Elise's choice to lie in a tanning bed - which are full of UV, of course - after applying the oils magnified the effects of phytophotodermatitis, resulting in this extremely painful burn.
Elise is not trying to blame Doterra but spread awareness. "Every yogi that I've talked to has no clue that this could have happened," she said. "So as summer is getting closer, and the weather is getting nicer, I just want everyone to be aware of this. Please, please read the bottles of anything you put on your skin. I wouldn't want this to happen to anyone else. It's been hell."
Though it's unlikely that after reading Elise's story that anyone would forget to take caution with their essential oils, we recommend enjoying your favorite aromas in a different way. We like using the ArtNaturals Bluetooth Oil Diffuser ($59), which acts as a humidifier while filling a room with your essential oil of choice. And remember, always read the fine print on your favorite products! See Elise's horrifying story in full when you read on.
A Band on the 13 Reasons Why Soundtrack Slams the Show: "It's F*cked"
13 Reasons Why has been getting both praise and heat for its honest portrayal of teen suicide and depression ever since the show was released on Netflix in late March. While executive producer Selena Gomez recently responded to criticism that the show glorifies suicide, saying they stayed "very true" to the book by Jay Asher, other people involved in the show aren't being as supportive.
The band Car Seat Headrest, who lends their song "Oh! Starving" to the soundtrack (it plays in episode 12 when Hannah loses an envelope full of money from her parents' store), slammed the show on Twitter on Sunday. "As someone who contributed to the soundtrack for 13 Reasons Why, I am obliged to tell you all that it's kind of f*cked," they wrote. "Writers: please don't tell kids how to turn their miserable and hopeless lives into a thrilling and cathartic suicide mission." Another tweet read, "Kids: this is not a narrative you need to subscribe to. Go watch Spring Breakers instead," referring to the raunchy 2013 movie starring Selena. Since it looks like there will most likely be a season two, maybe the band will opt out of being a part of that soundtrack.
as someone who contributed to the soundtrack for "13 Reasons Why", I am obliged to tell you all that it's kind of fucked
- car seat headrest (@carseatheadrest) April 30, 2017
kids: this is not a narrative you need to subscribe to. go watch 'spring breakers' instead
- car seat headrest (@carseatheadrest) April 30, 2017
6 Major Benefits to Minding Your Own Business
Let me start off by saying that I come from a nosy family. Like, everybody on my mom's side of the family is and always has been extremely nosy (sorry, Mom). If being nosy can be passed down through DNA, I've definitely inherited nosiness. Growing up, I never gave a second thought to eavesdropping on conversations, rifling through closets for Christmas and birthday gifts, or saying "I'm just curious" when really I was just being nosy as f*ck. To be honest, some of the most fun moments of my life have been listening to other people's conversations and then talking about those conversations with other nosy people. I was always reprimanded for this because, coincidentally, nosy people love telling other people how nosy they are.
Once I hit my teenage years, being nosy felt like something I had to do if I wanted to stay in the know. Being nosy got you the best gossip, and having the best gossip made you either a go-to source or someone to stay away from. But I made my nosiness work by being genuinely interested in what was going on with people and keeping the secrets I was told.
As an adult, I've realized that my nosiness comes from trying to solve problems rather than start them. It's the reason I love murder mysteries and sticking my head out the window when something's happening on the street. I love getting information, offering my thoughts, and helping come up with a plan or resolution for co-workers and friends. But soon I found myself pushing people to open up to me so I could offer my opinions, which is problematic because A) not everybody wants to hear my opinions; B) I'm not a licensed therapist; and C) other people's problems aren't always mine to solve.
I don't believe in New Year's resolutions, but after a particularly rough 2015, I told myself that I would turn a new leaf and start minding my own business. Literally, if there was an opportunity for me to be nosy, I would say to myself, "But that's none of my business," just like the Kermit tea-sipping meme. Here are six ways that staying out of it can really benefit your life.
- You will feel lighter. I can't tell you how much less pressure I felt once I realized just how much of what I worried about was not at all for me to worry about. Brooding about things you can't change - especially when on behalf of another person - can contribute to a lot of unhappiness.
- Your to-do list will get shorter. Being nosy = taking on extra responsibilities, and extra responsibilities = more stress. When a problem arose at work, I used to insert myself into the fray in order to help offer a solution or moral support. But once I reminded myself that not everything is my business, it was easier for me to trust others to do their job. Now, I try to only offer my opinion when I'm actually asked for it.
- You'll realize how little credit you've been giving to others. You owe it to the people in your life, whether they're family, friends, co-workers, or significant others, to make their own mistakes and figure out how to fix them. Minding your own business lets you take a step back and give them room to solve their own sh*t.
- You'll finally be face to face with your own sh*t. When you're not concerning yourself with other people's business, guess what you're left with? Staying out of things that don't involve you will help you focus on the things that do. Since becoming more like Kermit with his cup of Lipton, I've had a lot more time to fret about my own life choices, career path, and goals for the future. Yes, it's a new type of anxiety - but at least it's about things I can actually control.
- You'll find it easier to stop another nosy person in their tracks. Nosiness begets nosiness, which is a thing I just made up. Being a nosy person will only bring more nosy people into your life, which could be why nosiness is in my genes. But once you've chosen the path of minding your own business, it's a lot more fun to (gently) remind others to do the same. People will always want to offer advice, because they (hopefully) love you and (hopefully) have your best interest at heart. But being able to hear those opinions and not let them judge you for yours will get a lot easier.
- You'll be happier! A wise soul named Kacey Musgraves taught me: "Mind your own biscuits and life will be gravy." It's totally true, because tying yourself up in other people's business only ruins your own joy. And staying in your lane doesn't make you rude or unsympathetic; it makes you someone who is emotionally healthy enough to create boundaries. Those boundaries will help the people in your life work out their own issues without you interfering and making it about you - and that makes you a better person in the long run.
Because I'm human, I've had some slip-ups (just the other day I pressed my ear to the wall while my neighbors were arguing, oops), but overall, minding my own business and understanding that not everything concerns me has brought me a certain freedom and made me a less stressed-out person. Hopefully it will do the same for you.
Why 1 Makeup Artist Refuses to Use a Blending Sponge
I appreciate what a beauty blending sponge can do. I am aware that professional makeup artists across the land are using this tool to create flawless looks on their clients. I know that the tool is like no other when it comes to blending makeup and getting rid of makeup lines or stripes.
I'm a professional makeup artist, but none of these facts are enough to make me jump on the blending sponge bandwagon. Here are a few reasons:
They need to be washed daily
Most wisdom suggests that you wash your sponge daily. I don't have time to wash my clothes or my hair every day. I don't even have time to make my bed or clean out my car or put my Winter boots away. To think of adding an item into my life that needs daily care is preposterous. I don't care how good I look when I use it - it's not happening. I am just not into having an extra task to manage.
Reusable sponges are notorious for trapping bacteria and mold when not kept clean. If I do not properly wash my blender, then I am taking a real risk that I will be swiping bacteria and mold all over my face. That's not a risk I am willing to take.
You have to replace them frequently
Beauty blending sponges should be replaced every three months. What?!
First of all, I have already established that neither I, nor anyone I know, will be washing their blender every day. Considering that I am a working makeup artist who would be using the sponge on many faces a day, I'd go through my blenders more than once every three months. I like my tools to last a cool decade or I am not interested. I have makeup brushes that are older than my middle schooler, and I call that a tool that worth investing in.
They are best for heavier makeup application
Most makeup artists I know and read about mention their love for blending sponges because they allow them to blend heavy foundations and concealers seamlessly into skin. With a blender, you can get really great coverage with thicker makeup, and it will look more natural and more like skin. This is a definite benefit, but I don't ever use very heavy makeup on myself or my clients. When I do use makeup with moderate or heavy coverage, I am quite successful applying it with foundation brushes. The brushes I choose to use are the best quality, and the hairs of the brush are packed so densely that the makeup almost looks airbrushed.
My favorite brush is the new IT Cosmetics Heavenly Skin Skin-Smoothing Complexion Brush #704 ($48). This brush is custom-cut on an angle to enable the user to get every inch of the face looking flawless and airbrushed.
I don't have time to tap and stipple and tap and stipple
The best technique when using a blending sponge is to use the tool wet and then tap, tap, tap the product all over the face. This "stippling" technique is a slow method of pressing the products instead of wiping, to allow it to melt into the skin. The product gets deposited while simultaneously being blended, which creates a very perfect look. Sadly, whether it's my face I am doing or yours, chances are I don't have this kind of time.
I feel confident that I can create a very flawless look with my trusty foundation brush, and I value my time and yours. I don't have many clients who are willing to sit and have me apply foundation for long periods of time. Personally, when I am applying my own face, I generally have no more than 15 minutes in the morning.
They need a special bag for storage and travel
No matter where I am going, I am running late when I leave the house. My countertop is littered with makeup brushes, eye shadow palettes, and eyeliners. Skin care bottles and hair oils and sprays are all missing caps, because they rolled away somewhere weeks ago and I was in too much of a rush to find them.
To think that now I am going to stop what I am doing and put my freshly cleaned beauty blending sponge into a little breathable pouch is downright hilarious.
The same goes for when I leave a client's house or a photo shoot after a long day. I am throwing out mascara wands and disposable sponges and throwing everything else I can find into my kit like a maniac so I can get to my next client.
Who needs one more thing that needs to be worried about and cleaned? While reusable sponges are an innovative tool for blending, they aren't a necessity that will make that much of a difference for most people. If you don't use one, rest easy: enjoy your finger or foundation brush and live happily ever after.
RuPaul and His Very Tall, Very Handsome Husband Make Their Red Carpet Debut
RuPaul was honored with a spot on Time's Most Influential People of 2017 list and attended the annual gala with his new husband, Georges LeBar, in NYC on Tuesday night. The very tall, very handsome couple held hands on the red carpet before making their way inside, where Ru mingled with models Naomi Campbell and Ashley Graham and took his seat beside fellow honorees Megyn Kelly and Leslie Jones. Naomi penned a moving essay about Ru in the Time issue, recalling their first meeting and gushed about his "wit and intelligence," saying, "He's like an encyclopedia. And his beauty is far beyond skin-deep."
RuPaul and Georges secretly tied the knot in January, on the 23rd anniversary of their first meeting. It wasn't until March that Ru revealed the exciting news in an interview and explained their reason for making it official, saying, "What's happening politically right now, you know, you never know what could turn around at this point." Georges owns a 60,000-acre ranch in Wyoming, a place RuPaul visits frequently but calls "the most isolated place on Earth." "I dress up in the most gorgeous Westernwear . . . but nobody cares," he said.
RuPaul and His Very Tall, Very Handsome Husband Make Their Red Carpet Debut
RuPaul was honored with a spot on Time's Most Influential People of 2017 list and attended the annual gala with his new husband, Georges LeBar, in NYC on Tuesday night. The very tall, very handsome couple held hands on the red carpet before making their way inside, where Ru mingled with models Naomi Campbell and Ashley Graham and took his seat beside fellow honorees Megyn Kelly and Leslie Jones. Naomi penned a moving essay about Ru in the Time issue, recalling their first meeting and gushed about his "wit and intelligence," saying, "He's like an encyclopedia. And his beauty is far beyond skin-deep."
RuPaul and Georges secretly tied the knot in January, on the 23rd anniversary of their first meeting. It wasn't until March that Ru revealed the exciting news in an interview and explained their reason for making it official, saying, "What's happening politically right now, you know, you never know what could turn around at this point." Georges owns a 60,000-acre ranch in Wyoming, a place RuPaul visits frequently but calls "the most isolated place on Earth." "I dress up in the most gorgeous Westernwear . . . but nobody cares," he said.
Will Ferrell Hilariously Resumes His George W. Bush Impression to Roast Trump
Samantha Bee brought out the big guns for her Not the White House Correspondents' Dinner special airing on April 29, and it did not disappoint. Will Ferrell made a surprise appearance at the event, bringing back his infamous George W. Bush impression to hilariously speak out against President Trump.
"How do you like me now?" Ferrell asked the crowd, bringing on a massive applause. "Quick presidential update, I'm doing quite well, thank you. History has proven to be kinder to me than many of you thought."
Ferrell continued as Bush: "For the longest time, I was considered the worst president of all time. That has changed. I needed eight years, a catastrophic flood, a war built on a lie, and an economic disaster. The new guy only needed 100 days. He is widely considered the worst president of all time. I came in second. I'm fine with that. No one remembers second place. . . I'm the Martin Van Buren of the 21st century!"
But he did not stop there. Ferrell made fun of Bush's relationship with the press, and he also had some fashion advice for President Trump. "The tie stops at the belt," he said. "A big long tie that goes past your mid-thigh does not mean what you think it means. It means I don't know anything about fashion and I should not design my own ties."
His final three words of wisdom? "Eat a salad."
It's not a party without a special guest. #NotTheWHCD http://pic.twitter.com/UMxJWNke6V
- Full Frontal (@FullFrontalSamB) April 29, 2017
How to Have the Most Productive Week of Your Life - Seriously!
Mondays can always be a little stressful because you have to mentally prepare yourself for the week ahead. Seeing all your pending to-dos as soon as you wake up can be overwhelming, and before you know it, you're already hating the day. You don't have to make it so difficult on yourself, though! There are simple things you can do in advance and throughout that will help you take the week by storm.
1. Prep over the weekend.
Whenever you have a free moment, whether it's Sunday night or Saturday morning, map out all your to-dos for the week. That includes projects, personal errands, assignments, etc. I am a huge advocate for using physical planners because, one, you're more likely to remember something after writing it down, and two, seeing your plans laid out in front of you gives you a better sense temporally. Knowing your deadline is on Thursday vs. seeing your deadline is on Thursday has a different sense of urgency.
2. Take a look at your week ahead.
Check out your Google calendar and either mentally take note or add any events, plans, and meetings to your planner. This will prevent you from being surprised by any important dates and give you a heads-up on what you need to prepare for. Like getting that birthday gift you still need to buy before tomorrow's dinner? You're welcome.
3. Prioritize.
Now that you've got your list of to-dos, briefly rank them by importance. You don't need to make any physical notes; just getting an idea of your workload ahead eliminates the need for figuring all that out later. Knowing that you'll probably need a full day to work on that bigger project will be helpful enough to be able to manage your time for the remainder of your week.
4. Give yourself a head start.
Getting to work or waking up 30 minutes earlier can make a huge difference because your mornings have such an impact on the rest of your day. You can get a lot done within that time before everyone else starts to roll in and chat about their weekends. Even if you get into the office or get out of bed 10 minutes earlier, that gives you enough time to make your coffee and catch up on things. You'll be ready to tackle your list just about when you'd normally be starting your day.
5. Minimize chats.
Put off responding to texts until your lunch or break and resist unnecessary chats throughout the day. You'll be able to keep your head down and power through whatever you're working on instead of having to pause to respond to each message. You'll be able to get through your to-dos much quicker if you remove all distractions.
I'm French - and Everything My Country Stands For is at Stake in Our Election
Liberty, equality, fraternity. Those are the values France was built on. But today, those values I cherish - those values my ancestors fought so hard for - are being trampled. They seem to have been reduced to meaningless yet powerful words that politicians have taken hostage in a bid to have us believe that they care for our freedom and our rights. And I have never felt so disheartened.
Today, we find ourselves in an undeniably strange and stressful situation. For the first time in decades, two outsiders have gone through the first round of elections, ousting the two political parties that have been governing for what seems like forever. One, neither from the right nor the left, is young, and some would argue inexperienced. Emmanuel Macron has graced numerous tabloid covers with his wife, was part of a government that failed to keep most of its promises, and is the brain behind one of the most contested laws passed in the past five years. We don't know much about him or his policies, and his past as a banker isn't reassuring.
The other is from the far right. Marine Le Pen has been in the political sphere for as long as I can remember and took her father's place as National Front leader in the stated goal of un-demonizing a party that is known for its negationist views. Everybody knows what she stands for, although she very cleverly has managed to blur some lines. "She isn't the monster everybody thinks she is," someone recently told me. "She's not a racist. She just wants us to be safe." But see, closing down the frontiers, evicting illegal immigrants, and imposing a ban on Muslim headscarves is racism, because trust me when I say that the borders will not be closed to my white, Catholic friends who live in other parts of the world. And no, it will not prevent terrorism. What it will do, however, is reinforce this feeling of hatred, threat, and fear that we already have toward the "other" when we should be helping those who are in need.
Although none of the choices we are being given are ideal, the answer lies in this one simple question: would you rather vote for someone who plays on the fears of a nation, is against LGBTQ rights, abortion, and Europe itself, who is a threat to the freedom of the press, and who will not fight for women's rights? Or for someone else?
If anything, these elections have shown me that my country is more divided than ever. The population doesn't trust its representatives and doesn't believe in what they have to offer. Politicians seem completely disconnected from our reality, at war with each other and using us only to gain personal power. The country of love and culture that the whole world used to look at with envy is slowly but surely turning into a country of hatred, violence, and corruption, and some of us - whether we are conscious of it or not - are pushing in that direction. Only a handful of people seem to be concerned by the fact that our democracy is at risk, and that is a problem.
Now, I am by no means a political expert, but I know that the extreme right isn't the answer. France is a free country, and I wish we wouldn't forget about all the sacrifices it took our people to get to where we are now. It is still in our power to prevent history from repeating itself. It is still in our power to make sure future generations will live in a world where love isn't a crime, where the press isn't suppressed, and where our own beliefs are not used as a weapon against us. It is time for us to make the right choice. It is time for us to make our voices heard, even if it is by voting for someone who doesn't represent our values. Refusing to go to the polling station isn't an option when we are so close to destroying everything our country stands for. Anything but the extreme right.
The Chainsmokers Surprise High School Students by Crashing Their Prom
Students at Huntley High School just outside of Chicago got an amazing surprise at their prom on Saturday when The Chainsmokers decided to crash for a unexpected performance. After Grammy award-winning duo Andrew Taggart and Alex Pall noticed the dance at the Hyatt Regency Hotel near the venue they were set to play at that night, they hopped over and put on a 10-minute show. "Crashed this prom just now. It was across the street from our arena show, so why not :)," they tweeted alongside an epic photo with the sea of students.
While the surprise appeared to be last-minute, the whole thing was actually planned. The school's principal, Scott Rowe, told the Chicago Daily Herald that he had been talking to the band's manager for a few weeks after one of the students sent them a letter. "It was probably the toughest secret I've ever kept, because I knew the kids were going to go crazy for it," he said. "They just kind of came from backstage and just started performing 'Closer.' The kids weren't exactly sure what was going on. About three words in, somebody screamed 'That's The Chainsmokers!' It says a lot about those guys and how cool they are to their fans." And if anyone is bummed thinking that this is a one-time thing, the band tweeted, "Your prom could be next."
Crashed this prom just now. It was across the street from our arena show, so why not :) http://pic.twitter.com/BIOdSrfMKd
- THE CHAINSMOKERS (@TheChainsmokers) April 30, 2017
CHAINSMOKERS CRASHED PROM http://pic.twitter.com/eqh5gdZnMN
- sammy❤️ (@sam_rysavy) April 30, 2017
Selena Gomez Defends 13 Reasons Why's Graphic Suicide Scene
13 Reasons Why is being lauded for its honest and realistic depiction of depression and teen suicide, but there has also been a lot of controversy surrounding a scene in which the show's main character, Hannah Baker, takes her own life. Many critics have accused the scene of being too graphic or glamorizing suicide and feel that it's not doing enough to point viewers in the direction of preventative help.
Selena Gomez, the executive producer and driving force behind the hit Netflix series, addressed the backlash while on the red carpet at the We Day event in LA on Thursday. "We stayed very true to the book and that's initially what [13 Reasons Why author] Jay Asher created . . . a beautifully tragic, complicated yet suspenseful story," Selena told AP. "We wanted to do it justice and, yeah, [the backlash is] going to come no matter what," she added. "It's not an easy subject to talk about, but I'm very fortunate with how it's doing." Selena has also been vocal about her own struggles with mental health over the past year.
Selena's sentiments echo those of executive producer Brian Yorkey, who said, "We worked very hard not to be gratuitous. But we did want it to be painful to watch because we wanted to be very clear that there is nothing, in any way, worthwhile about suicide." Writer Nic Sheff opened up about their choice while touching on his own suicide attempt: "It seemed to me the perfect opportunity to show what an actual suicide really looks like - to dispel the myth of the quiet drifting off, and to make viewers face the reality of what happens when you jump from a burning building into something much, much worse."
I'm French - and Everything My Country Stands For is at Stake in Our Election
Liberty, equality, fraternity. Those are the values France was built on. But today, those values I cherish - those values my ancestors fought so hard for - are being trampled. They seem to have been reduced to meaningless yet powerful words that politicians have taken hostage in a bid to have us believe that they care for our freedom and our rights. And I have never felt so disheartened.
Today, we find ourselves in an undeniably strange and stressful situation. For the first time in decades, two outsiders have gone through the first round of elections, ousting the two political parties that have been governing for what seems like forever. One, neither from the right nor the left, is young, and some would argue inexperienced. Emmanuel Macron has graced numerous tabloid covers with his wife, was part of a government that failed to keep most of its promises, and is the brain behind one of the most contested laws passed in the past five years. We don't know much about him or his policies, and his past as a banker isn't reassuring.
The other is from the far right. Marine Le Pen has been in the political sphere for as long as I can remember and took her father's place as National Front leader in the stated goal of un-demonizing a party that is known for its negationist views. Everybody knows what she stands for, although she very cleverly has managed to blur some lines. "She isn't the monster everybody thinks she is," someone recently told me. "She's not a racist. She just wants us to be safe." But see, closing down the frontiers, evicting illegal immigrants, and imposing a ban on Muslim headscarves is racism, because trust me when I say that the borders will not be closed to my white, Catholic friends who live in other parts of the world. And no, it will not prevent terrorism. What it will do, however, is reinforce this feeling of hatred, threat, and fear that we already have toward the "other" when we should be helping those who are in need.
Although none of the choices we are being given are ideal, the answer lies in this one simple question: would you rather vote for someone who plays on the fears of a nation, is against LGBTQ rights, abortion, and Europe itself, who is a threat to the freedom of the press, and who will not fight for women's rights? Or for someone else?
If anything, these elections have shown me that my country is more divided than ever. The population doesn't trust its representatives and doesn't believe in what they have to offer. Politicians seem completely disconnected from our reality, at war with each other and using us only to gain personal power. The country of love and culture that the whole world used to look at with envy is slowly but surely turning into a country of hatred, violence, and corruption, and some of us - whether we are conscious of it or not - are pushing in that direction. Only a handful of people seem to be concerned by the fact that our democracy is at risk, and that is a problem.
Now, I am by no means a political expert, but I know that the extreme right isn't the answer. France is a free country, and I wish we wouldn't forget about all the sacrifices it took our people to get to where we are now. It is still in our power to prevent history from repeating itself. It is still in our power to make sure future generations will live in a world where love isn't a crime, where the press isn't suppressed, and where our own beliefs are not used as a weapon against us. It is time for us to make the right choice. It is time for us to make our voices heard, even if it is by voting for someone who doesn't represent our values. Refusing to go to the polling station isn't an option when we are so close to destroying everything our country stands for. Anything but the extreme right.
11 Indie Movies That Will Charm You This Summer
Blockbusters aren't for everyone. The loud explosions, the car chases, the snarky one-liners delivered by a muscle-bound leading man . . . OK, I happen to love them. But I also love low-budget comedies and dramas! The ones with mellow film festival premieres, written by budding geniuses and packed with my favorite TV stars. Out of the many movies opening this Summer, here are the ones that you'll find playing at your local, off-the-beaten-path theater.
Eric Dane's TV Show Temporarily Shuts Down Due to His Battle With Depression
Eric Dane is taking some much-needed time off. The actor's rep revealed in a statement to Us Weekly on Sunday that production on Eric's hit TNT show, The Last Ship, has been temporarily shut down so that he can deal with depression. "Eric asked for a break to deal with personal issues," his rep said. "He suffers from depression and has asked for a few weeks of downtime and the producers kindly granted that request. He looks forward to returning." According to Variety, the hiatus will last through Memorial Day weekend.
Eric, who is also known for his role as Dr. McSteamy on Grey's Anatomy, has been open about his struggles in the past. The actor, who is dad to daughters Billie and Georgia with wife Rebecca Gayheart, entered rehab in 2011 to battle an addiction to painkillers that he developed following a sports injury.
Eric Dane's TV Show Temporarily Shuts Down Due to His Battle With Depression
Eric Dane is taking some much-needed time off. The actor's rep revealed in a statement to Us Weekly on Sunday that production on Eric's hit TNT show, The Last Ship, has been temporarily shut down so that he can deal with depression. "Eric asked for a break to deal with personal issues," his rep said. "He suffers from depression and has asked for a few weeks of downtime and the producers kindly granted that request. He looks forward to returning." According to Variety, the hiatus will last through Memorial Day weekend.
Eric, who is also known for his role as Dr. McSteamy on Grey's Anatomy, has been open about his struggles in the past. The actor, who is dad to daughters Billie and Georgia with wife Rebecca Gayheart, entered rehab in 2011 to battle an addiction to painkillers that he developed following a sports injury.
See All the Stunning Billboard Latin Music Awards' Red Carpet Looks
All of our favorite stars flocked to Miami for the 2017 Billboard Latin Music Awards. Sparkles, and white and black dresses (and a few pantsuits) reigned supreme on the red carpet for one of the biggest nights in Latin music, while the guys came dressed to impress with interesting twists on the classic tux.
From Becky G's burgundy backless gown to Luis Fonsi's power blue suit - and we can't forget Jennifer Lopez's most jaw-dropping naked dress yet - keep scrolling to see our favorite looks of the night.
11 Things That Won't Make Sense If You Don't Come From a Latino Family
We're not saying every Latino family is the same, but, if we're being honest, there are a few customs that most of us share. For example, "la chancleta" has a meaning to you, and the idea of calling everyone tío and tía even if you just met them doesn't seem weird. Scroll ahead for 11 things that someone who doesn't come from a big Latino family just wouldn't understand at all.
These Are the Tastiest Foodie Launches For April 2017
Ready to snack your way into Spring and wash Winter away with a refreshing Rosé? Us too. When it comes to the latest, best new snacks, buzziest cookbook releases, and Spring-break-approved booze, we've got it all right here. Take a look!
It Was Love at First Sight For Gisele, Even Though Tom Was Already Taken
Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen celebrated their eighth wedding anniversary in February, but their love story actually begun three years before their 2009 nuptials. The couple, who has three adorable kids between them (Jack, Benjamin, and Vivian), started dating while Tom was still in a relationship with actress Bridget Moynahan. "I knew right [a]way - the first time I saw him," Gisele told Vanity Fair in 2009. "We met through a friend. The moment I saw him, he smiled and I was like, that is the most beautiful, charismatic smile I've ever seen! We sat and talked for three hours. I had to go home for Christmas, but I didn't want to leave. You know that feeling of, like, you can't get enough? From the first day we met, we've never spent one day without speaking to each other."
Gisele also confessed that she "wasn't looking for a relationship" at the time. "I'd always been in serious relationships, but you learn a lot about yourself when you're by yourself, and I was enjoying that process. But you don't choose." While both of Tom's relationships overlapped just a tiny bit, Tom ended up breaking things up with Bridget, who later announced she was pregnant with Tom's child and gave birth to son Jack in August 2007. "It was definitely a surprise for both of us," Gisele recalled. "In the beginning you're living this romantic fantasy; you're thinking, this can't be true, it's so good! And then, whoops - wake-up call! We were dating two and a half months when he found out, and it was a very challenging situation. Obviously, in the beginning, it's not the ideal thing." Fast-forward to present day, and Gisele has fully embraced being a stepmom to Jack and seems to have an amicable relationship with Bridget.
Every Question You've Ever Had About the Met Gala, Answered in an Instant
We don't expect you to know that Vogue editor Anna Wintour has been cochairing the Met Gala since 1999, but you should absolutely know she's the woman behind the annual event, which always falls on the first Monday in May. And you don't need to know exactly how much money the ball raises for the Met's Costume Institute, but you should be aware that - behind all the glitz and glamour on the red carpet - there's a curated exhibit for attendees (and eventually you) to enjoy.
Just days after Hollywood's elite swarm the museum in New York, the doors are open to the public. This year, everyone will enjoy a tribute to Comme des Garcons womenswear designer Rei Kawakubo, who is "one of the most important and influential designers of the past forty years," according to chief curator Andrew Bolton. What goes into planning not only the display but also the most anticipated, exclusive night in fashion? Anna Wintour handles the seating charts and taps a couple of celebrity performers to entertain, but we're sure you have more questions than that, now don't you?
10 Easy-as-Can-Be Lunch Meal-Prep Options
Bringing lunch to work is something we all have the best intentions of doing, but oftentimes time gets away from us in the mornings, and before we know it, we're busting out our wallets in the Chipotle, sandwich, and salad lines again and again. The secret to maintaining a lunch packing routine is meal prep. By planning a variety of options and preparing food ahead of time at the beginning of the week, you'll find that it's not all that hard to pack healthy meals you'll actually want to eat. Here are 10 options that will have you counting down the minutes to lunch every day.
See All the Stunning Billboard Latin Music Awards' Red Carpet Looks
All of our favorite stars flocked to Miami for the 2017 Billboard Latin Music Awards. Sparkles, and white and black dresses (and a few pantsuits) reigned supreme on the red carpet for one of the biggest nights in Latin music, while the guys came dressed to impress with interesting twists on the classic tux.
From Becky G's burgundy backless gown to Luis Fonsi's power blue suit - and we can't forget Jennifer Lopez's most jaw-dropping naked dress yet - keep scrolling to see our favorite looks of the night.
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