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.
jeudi 1 février 2018
Every Single Thing on the Fabulous Menu at Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen Restaurant
Gordon Ramsay's first Hell's Kitchen-themed restaurant opened in Las Vegas at Caesars Palace in January, and it's a must visit for big fans of the chef and the show. Not sure what to order if you're planning a visit? Check out the entire dinner menu below!
Chilled Seafood
HK Grand Shellfish Tower
lobster, king crab legs, Jonah crab claws, gulf shrimp, oysters, clams
$49
Oysters on the Half Shell
chef's daily selection, HK mignonette, gin cocktail sauce
half dozen $21, full dozen $31
Lobster Risotto at Hell's Kitchen.
Appetizers
Wagyu Meatballs
slow-roasted tomato sauce, polenta croutons, Parmesan cheese, basil
$18
Scampi Prawn Flambé
garlic white wine sauce, drawn butter
$24
Pan-Seared Scallops
celery root, braised bacon lardons, pickled Granny Smith apples
$19
Seared Foie Gras
spiced carrot cake, golden raisins, candied pecans
$25
Lobster Risotto
butter-poached lobster tail, butternut squash, sage
$24
Tuna Tartare
soy chili vinaigrette, pickled Fresno chilies, cilantro
$19
Smoked Golden Beets Salad at Hell's Kitchen.
Salad/Soup
Smoked Golden Beets
Greek yogurt, kumquats, pistachio granola, white balsamic vinaigrette
$21
Caesar Salad
Parmesan cheese frico, garlic croutons, lemon zest
$16
Red Quinoa Salad
Honeycrisp apples, dried apricots, goat cheese, toasted hazelnuts, honey vinaigrette
$16
Pumpkin Soup
spicy chorizo, crème fraiche, toasted pepitas
$12
Beef Wellington at Hell's Kitchen.
Entrees
Beef Wellington
potato purée, glazed root vegetables, red wine demi-glace
$49
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Vadouvan carrots, Bloomsdale spinach, harissa lamb jus
$39
Braised Short Rib
creamy polenta, baby vegetables, beef jus
$34
Brick-Pressed Chicken
lacinato kale, sweet potato hash, chicken jus
$29
Crispy Skin Salmon
beluga lentils, shaved fennel salad, citrus herb beurre blanc
$32
Broiled Alaskan Cod
spicy olive tapenade, patatas bravas
$30
From the Grill
Filet Mignon
8 ounces, roasted tomatoes on the vine, béarnaise
$47
Dry-Aged NY Strip
12 ounces, glazed wild mushrooms, shishito peppers, red wine demi-glace
$49
Prime 30-Day Dry-Aged Porterhouse For Two
32 ounces, choice of two side dishes, bearnaise
$125
Sides, $9 each
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
smoked Gouda, crispy prosciutto
Roasted Cauliflower
chili lime gremolata, mint
Potato Gratin
fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese
Wild Mushrooms
shallot white wine glaze
Brussels Sprouts
pickled Fresno peppers, cilantro
Potato Puree
crème fraiche, chives
Sticky Toffee Pudding at Hell's Kitchen.
HK Signature Pre-Fixe Menu, $69 ($120 With Wine Pairing)
First Course
(choice of)
Pan-Seared Scallops
celery root, braised bacon lardons, pickled Granny Smith apples
Caesar Salad
Parmesan cheese frico, garlic croutons, lemon zest
Main Course
Beef Wellington
potato purée, glazed root vegetables, red wine demi-glace
Dessert
Sticky Toffee Pudding
speculoos ice cream
The Best Beach Getaways For Every Type of Couple
Dreaming about your next warm-weather getaway with your significant other? Whether you're a couple who likes activities, animals, or simply a beautiful sunset, there's an option for everyone. From the blissful waters of French Polynesia to the islands of Thailand, here are the best beach getaways for every type of couple.
12 Unique Things to Do in Seattle
Over the past few years, people have been flocking to Seattle - and with good reason. It's one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, and booming companies such as Amazon and Microsoft have helped with that increase of population and tourism. But what is there to do in Seattle? People often head immediately to Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, but there is so much more to the Emerald City than what you've seen on Grey's Anatomy. Whether you're already a Seattleite or want to visit and find unique things to do, check out this list of 12 spots.
What I Learned From Not Wearing Makeup For 2 Months
Image Source: Tori Crowther
I've had the travel bug for as long as I can remember; I just can't stay put for too long. Last year, before I'd even finished the last of my university work, I'd jetted off to the USA to stay with family for six weeks. From there, my boyfriend and I traveled around Southeast Asia, part backpacking, part nice (budget) holiday-ing. I'd managed to pack up my belongings in a bag of a similar size to the one I now carry to work every day. I'd also packed less makeup and skin care for the trip than I use in a single day at home.
I packed only six items: cleanser, exfoliator, moisturizer, SPF, shampoo, and mascara. That's it. I'd recently had an HD Brows treatment (which included tinting), so I didn't need to worry about them. I didn't even take conditioner or hair oil (though I later regretted this and bought some on my travels). To say I packed light is an understatement.
Over the first few days, I missed my acid toner, mists, and array of concealers to rid my blemishes and dark circles. But surprisingly, after the initial shock of only having minimal products, I actually forgot about my lack of beauty products and didn't miss having those extra steps in my day.
Although I've been blessed with a quite a good complexion, I still have my skin hangups. Right now I could tell you exactly where all my skin concerns are (two spots by my nose, a scar on my left jaw, and a weird blackhead on my left cheek). I stare at them every time I do my skincare routine, wishing them away. But I actually can't tell you if my skin was particularly good or bad when I was traveling, because I didn't notice it, nor did I care. I didn't have the time (nor energy) for a 15-minute skincare routine, which is one of my favorite things at home.
Image Source: Tori Crowther
My skin has definitely benefited from using an array of products, and I don't think I could ever have such a minimal routine long term. However, I have learned that giving my skin a break also gave me a break from obsessing over every blemish and imperfection. It also made me appreciate makeup. When I did decide to wear a slick of mascara once or twice in the evening, I felt great - like really great. I was amazed what such a tiny amount of product could do as a confidence booster. Never underestimate the power of mascara!
Now, I'm not saying that you shouldn't ever think about skin care again. Although there is more to life than beauty products, I strive for perfect skin and I really enjoy trying different products to find what works for me. But, there are no benefits to scrutinizing your every blemish in the mirror twice (or more) a day, because it probably isn't doing you or your skin any good. Sometimes, the basics are all you need. Embrace your natural beauty and enjoy those no-makeup moments as much as the makeup moments.
The 15 Best Independent Bookstores in the US
When it's time to hit the road for a vacation, there are two things that bookworms know to be true. First of all, you can never pack too many books in your suitcase and carry-on (although those overweight luggage fees are definitely not on our side). The other is that, no matter where we go, it would be straight-up sacrilege to not visit any and all renowned independent bookstores in the vicinity.
With no disrespect to chain bookstores, there's nothing quite as magical as an independent bookstore. Each has its own unique atmosphere, decor, selection, and claim to fame, but they all have one thing in common - when a bookworm steps inside, we immediately know that we could spend an entire day there.
Despite the rise of e-readers, there's no shortage of incredible independent bookstores in America. In fact, some of us (*raises hand*) have even planned trips just so we can visit certain indies. Luckily, many of them are located in popular tourist destinations like New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. So before you head out on your next trip, check out this list of the 15 best independent bookstores in the country.
8 Ways to Avoid Jet Lag, According to Airline Staff
Traveling is one of the best things in life, in my opinion. But there is one thing that we all hate about the activity: jet lag. It can knock you out for a good few days, both during your trip and when you return home, and unfortunately there isn't a magic cure. However, there are tips and tricks to help get over the worst of it, and for that you need to look to the experts.
When it comes to the field of jet lag, nobody understands it quite like airline crew. Being an in-flight expert is their job, and they've found some pretty great ways of dealing with the downsides of traveling. Read on for some of the best tips to reduce jet lag from Nadia Clinton, Delta's country manager for the UK and Ireland.
Set Your Watch to the Time of the Destination
Do this even before you set off and you won't be tempted to look at the clock and think, "Oh, it's actually 3 a.m. at home." Nadia says, "Psychologically, it helps get the mind tuned in to that city and what I should be doing when I land, rather than what I feel like doing in my current time zone."
Stay Awake During Daytime Flights, and Sleep During Nighttime Ones
It's so tempting to fall asleep to a good in-flight film as soon as you get on the plane. But Nadia says it's important to stick to the rhythm of daylight, as it's the key to staying fresh.
Drink Water
Lots of it! Dehydration during a flight is so common and can make you feel very groggy toward the end of a journey. Staying hydrated will help you stay alert and feeling fresh to combat tiredness.
Take Time in the Sun
Don't soak in the sun, because that isn't good for anyone. But do take a walk in your new destination, rather than retreating to your hotel room for Netflix in the dark. Sunlight will help your body wake up and adjust your internal clock. Oh, and don't forget to wear SPF!
Avoid Heavy Foods
Heavy food, especially at lunchtime, can lead to an afternoon slump and throw your body clock even further out of sync. Try to keep it light if you want to keep your energy levels high, Nadia suggests.
Turn Off Your Phone at Night
When adjusting to a new time zone, it's vital you give yourself the best possible chance to sleep. When it's time to sleep, turn the phone, tablet, and laptop off. See it as an excuse to tune out and get some much-needed rest.
Pack Your Sneakers
Exercise might be the last thing on your mind when arriving at your destination, but it is one of the best ways to keep your energy levels up. It will also let you see the sights of your new city. Nadia notes this can be especially useful for business travelers who need to ensure they have energy for those important meetings.
Avoid Alcohol and Coffee
If you're consuming multiple cups of coffee, that doesn't equal hydration. It's tempting to say yes to all the free drinks on long-haul flights, but make sure you also say yes to the water!
8 Reasons to Visit the Great Wall of China at Least Once in Your Lifetime
One of the greatest wonders in the world lies in China. The Great Wall was named that for a good reason. It's huge, it's epic, and it's the perfect bucket-list destination to put at the top of your list if you have a chance. With travel becoming more accessible than ever, it's easy to make a journey to the wall a possibility. Personally, I took a day trip there on a layover, which was a great way to stretch my legs after a 14-hour flight to Beijing and get to view a huge cultural icon that was entirely man-made and well-preserved for tourists to still visit to this day.
The 6 Best Spring Cruise Destinations
Spring is the best season for travel in terms of weather. It's dry and not yet hot in many places around the world, and if you know when to book your cruise, you can score some amazing deals. A rule of thumb for springtime travel is to go when Spring breakers are leaving and before Summer vacationers roll in. It's also the best time of year when you can see the most beautiful flowers in full bloom. Keep reading to see which six destinations are great to visit in the Spring.
Pack Your Trunks, Muggles - You Can Now Take a Harry Potter Cruise!
Ever dreamed of being chauffeured in style from one Harry Potter-inspired landmark to the next? There are countless Harry Potter travel destinations we have on our bucket lists, and now fans can knock out several with just one trip down the River Thames. Traveling by land is for Muggles; floating down a river is much more magical.
Barge Lady Cruises is offering a special itinerary for guests called the Harry Potter Magic Cruise, which allows up to eight guests a chance to spend seven days making stops that fit the theme along the way. The river cruise starts and finishes in London, and travelers can expect to experience places that they'll recognize from the movies. Some of the stops include:
- Virginia Water: where Harry first meets Buckbeak the hippogriff in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
- Dorney Court, Visit 4 Privet Drive: guests will travel to Picket Post Close, the location for the filming of 4 Privet Drive in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.
- Warner Bro's Harry Potter Studio Tour: Potterheads can experience the Harry Potter Studio Tour, which is one of the top destinations for fans in the world. You can go behind the scenes and explore how the films were made, see real props from the movies, and so much more!
- Explore the Great Hall at Hogwarts at Christ Church College: the Great Hall at Christ Church College in Oxford is what the Hogwarts Great Hall is modeled after. You'll feel like a true wizard standing in the middle of the massive room. The room was used to film scenes in both Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
According to Travel and Leisure, guests will also be served Hogwarts-inspired meals by a gourmet chef on board. This year's Harry Potter cruises run Aug. 5-11 and Aug. 19-25, but there's one not-so-tiny catch. You'll need to dip into your pile of galleons - sorry, dollars - for this cruise. The trip costs about $34,000, which can be split up to eight ways ($4,190/person).
Some Welcome Changes Are Coming to It's a Small World at Disneyland This Spring
One of the best parts about It's a Small World at Disneyland is staring at the beautiful white-and-gold facade while you wait in line. The queue, however, has some room for improvement - and Disney is on the case! The attraction just wrapped up It's a Small World Holiday and reopens Feb. 2. However, guests will start to notice a few welcome changes when they visit the popular ride in the coming months. Updates will be occurring in the promenade at the front of the attraction, where the actual location of the line is being moved.
"The location of the queue will be moved - along with other enhancements, including a new parade route entrance and stroller area - allowing guests to travel through It's a Small World Mall with greater ease," said Disney. "In addition to accessing It's a Small World, guests use the promenade in front of the attraction to get to Mickey's Toontown and Fantasyland Theatre, among other offerings. The slightly adjusted parade route will make room for the attraction's new queue, creating more space in the area."
The changes are expected to be ready by Spring, just in time for the return of the Pixar Play Parade, which will kick off April 13 as part of Pixar Fest.
Forget Grad School - Millennials Are Making Travel the "New Master's Degree"
If it seems like your Instagram feed is saturated with other people's vacation photos, you're not alone. Many of us are green with envy at every cocktail raised against a white-sanded backdrop and equally guilty of posting "candid" shots of ourselves admiring landmarks. With geo-tagged photos becoming the new postcard, our wanderlust is only fueled with every scroll. Not so surprisingly, Booking.com's global research highlights found that one in three 18- to 34-year-olds admit that "they travel more and try more first-time travel experiences so they can post new pictures on their social media."
Despite this disappointing statistic, consider that only half of all millennial travel is purely for leisure. A 2016 study found that about 50 percent of millennial travelers are globe-hopping after high school and college for other reasons: to pursue higher education, volunteer, and study language. While international travel certainly isn't accessible to all, many millennials make financial and personal sacrifices as a tradeoff for new experiences. Gone are the days when the postuniversity track was either heading straight into the workforce or continuing your education at grad school. Now, a number of millennials - who we're dubbing the "travel generation" - have found a way to build travel into their career paths.
Meet Kristina Choi, 27, and Desiree Anderson, 24: two millennials who've fully taken advantage of travel opportunities and benefited from their experiences in more ways than one.
Furthering Education on Another ContinentChoi, who's now a management consultant, killed two birds with one stone by earning her master's degree abroad. Though she didn't travel straight out of college, she did study abroad in Bristol, England, for a semester during her junior year in 2012. After graduating with an English degree and working in public relations for about three years, Choi decided to quit her job to go to grad school - overseas.
Though she applied to a few MBA programs in the US, Choi said, "My priority was to attend a school in London for three main reasons: master's programs are cheaper in the UK than in the US, they are shorter (mine was 12 months), and I would have the chance to live abroad again. I loved my experience of studying abroad during college and knew that I would gain so much more than a degree by moving abroad."
In September 2016, she relocated to London to study at University College London (UCL) for its Master of Science (MSc) in Management program and completed her degree in a year before moving back to the States - all of which she documented on her YouTube channel. Within that time, Choi was able to visit 10 countries outside of England: France, Germany, Slovenia, Croatia, Portugal, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Italy, Ireland, and Scotland.
"All of the cool kids on Instagram today have shifted from posting pictures of their new handbag to posting pictures of their awesome ziplining experience."Expedia's recent multigenerational travel study discovered an overall shift to prioritizing experiences over material possessions, which could align with the surge in millennial travelers. In that same study, the travel company learned that 65 percent of millennials are currently saving for travel and nearly half would sell their belongings to fund a trip.
"If you remember Sex and the City, which was very Gen X, you'll remember it was pretty focused on 'stuff' - your new pair of shoes, your fancy new dress," Sarah Gavin, vice president of Expedia Inc. global communications, told POPSUGAR via email. "Flash forward and all of the cool kids on Instagram today have shifted from posting pictures of their new handbag to posting pictures of their awesome ziplining experience."
Fortunately, Choi didn't have to give up her possessions. Instead, she calculated exactly how much to save from each paycheck to cover the costs of grad school, visa fees, living expenses, etc. prior to moving. "I was fortunate enough to live with my parents [back home in Los Angeles after college] and saved even more money that way," she said. "I ended up saving enough money to pay for my tuition and dorm, as well as most of my other living expenses before going abroad." Getting a part-time job in London for about six months also provided extra income and travel money.
When I asked Choi over email what traveling had offered that an immediate career path couldn't, she explained that returning to school and living in London provided a stronger global perspective and network, which helped her jump into her next job.
"While I was taking a break from work, I still used so many skills important in the workforce while I lived and traveled abroad," she said. "Traveling requires good time management, budgeting, and especially the ability to deal with different types of people - all while seeing and experiencing beautiful places in the world."
In addition to making friends and memories in the most picturesque places, Choi was also able to challenge her independence, overcome communication barriers, appreciate various cultures and backgrounds, and learn to better deal with unexpected changes.
"Every person has a story, and I think my unconventional path towards my current career helps me stand out and adds to my story," Choi said. "Yes, I probably could have become a consultant much more quickly if I had majored in business as an undergrad and pursued that career immediately, but the experiences I've had up to this point make my work that much more valuable."
"Every person has a story, and I think my unconventional path towards my current career helps me stand out and adds to my story."
Bucket List Over Law SchoolAnderson, who has spent two years working as a legal assistant at an intellectual property law firm, has similarly reaped the benefits of her worldly adventures. After graduating from UC Berkeley in May 2015, Anderson watched many of her peers take off on their international gap year. But paying off students loans and being freshly out of school limited her to local experiences instead.
Rather than traverse the globe, Anderson decided to travel around the US while applying to jobs at law firms. "Traveling that extensively just wasn't in the cards for me, which is why I place an importance on smaller local trips that will still give me that revitalized feeling," she said via email.
Working part-time jobs throughout college, never dipping into her savings (unless for emergencies), and being smart about expenses allowed Anderson to be self-sufficient postgraduation. She also hunted for cheap flights using tools like Skyscanner, Hopper, and other airline apps.
In those five months before landing her current position, she embarked on a multiday backpacking trip through the Narrows in Utah, earned her open-water and advanced scuba certification, and more.
Anderson's original plan was to gain a year of work experience at her firm while studying for the LSAT. Although she didn't intend to stay at the firm for as long as she has, after taking the LSAT, she came to the conclusion that law school would always be there. With the travel bug still kicking since her senior year at the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG), Anderson decided to put her higher education on hold and, instead, use her extra income to cross destinations off her bucket list.
"What I don't want to miss out on is my youth - the blessing of being young, able-bodied, and not having any true restrictions or responsibilities," she told POPSUGAR.
Anderson has since visited 12 countries (with her upcoming Thailand trip to be number 13), including 20 states and counting.
The largest student and youth travel company, STA Travel, has also noticed a trend in "more experiential, authentic adventures" among the more than two million travelers it assists each year, most of whom are between 18 and 35.
"It makes sense, as student and youth travelers nowadays are more likely to invest in experiences than things, and so the travel industry has responded," Tiffany Harrison, senior marketing manager at STA Travel, told POPSUGAR over email. "Many post-grads nowadays are already considering traveling before jumpstarting their careers."
Even with a 9-to-5 job and 10 paid vacation days a year, Anderson still makes it a priority to travel - even if that means taking a red-eye on a Friday and flying back Sunday evening. On top of taking advantage of paid holidays, she makes the most of her weekends checking off new cities within the States.
Though Anderson's job allows her to support herself, the real reason she's able to travel so often is all thanks to her cutting out expenses wherever possible. She cooks meals at home, drinks her office's free coffee, and spends her hard-earned money on round-trip tickets in lieu of trendy accessories and beauty services.
"No one is going to care what your $40-gel manicure looks like when you post a photo of you standing in front of the Eiffel tower," Anderson said. "If you do spend your money on these things, just understand that you're putting off your travels in exchange."
The one exception, however, are accommodations that are culturally unique to that country she's traveling in. In Japan, for example, Anderson allowed herself to splurge a little on her stays at multiple capsule hotels and a traditional ryokan. Otherwise, she prefers hostels all the way.
Anderson's passport has become just as important as her résumé. In addition to feeling personally enriched, her global experiences have translated to the workplace, as well.
"In college, if I could get through a semester without the professor knowing my name and sitting in the back of the classroom, I counted that as a success," Anderson said. "Even though formal education has given me the knowledge and opportunities to attain better careers, no company would hire me if I had the same attitude and behavior in an interview that I had in the classroom. Traveling, and more specifically traveling alone, has allowed me to interact with people of different ages, languages, and nationalities, and find common ground."
Despite graduating from UC Berkeley (as did Choi), the world's No. 1 public university, Anderson argues that the real-world education she received during her travels has been far more valuable.
"Traveling before settling down into a serious career has given me the ability to learn about myself as well as the world around me," she said. "Traveling has allowed me to learn about worlds different than my own, whether I'm underwater diving the Silfra Fissure in Iceland, trekking through mountain ranges of Alaska and warding off grizzly bears, or shopping in the souks of Morocco. Through my travels I've learned about different cultures, animals, ecosystems, traditions, etc., which are all things no classroom or desk job could teach you. Traveling has given me the opportunity to learn about the deepest parts of my personality when faced with new challenges and taught me that I am a lot more capable than I believed I could be. I can honestly say that traveling has shaped who I am entirely."
"Traveling has given me the opportunity to learn about the deepest parts of my personality when faced with new challenges and taught me that I am a lot more capable than I believed I could be."However, it's also important to note that there are best practices when using your personal travels to your professional advantage. Lauren McGoodwin, founder and CEO of female-powered career site Career Contessa and a former university recruiter at Hulu, says it all depends on how you market your experiences.
"If while traveling, they had remarkable volunteer opportunities or were able to hone a skill that's relevant to the job, that would be really great - but they would have to market it to the interviewer," McGoodwin said via email. "For example, if you were applying to an event planning job, or had to explain how you are detail-oriented, you could utilize your vacation-planning expertise to explain how you fit those qualifications."
Rather than listing "travel" on your résumé, McGoodwin recommends tying your travel experiences into your cover letter to make specific connections to the role or company you're applying for. Your story may also be a way to connect with your interviewer or to explain a gap between jobs. But on a personal level, McGoodwin believes that travel can be incredibly valuable.
"Taking trips also allows you the opportunity to reach out to people in your network that you wouldn't normally have the chance to meet up with for an informational interview," she said. "So adding travel to your mental resume - I'm a total advocate of."
The benefits of traveling, especially for millennials, are unparalleled. Global travel company Contiki released a recent study, The Power of Travel, which was advised by leading psychologist Adam Galinsky, PhD, Columbia Business School. It found travel to have an overwhelmingly positive impact on 3,000 18- to 35-year-old travelers and nontravelers around the world, from their careers to their self-confidence.
And it makes sense. When you travel, you're quite literally out of your comfort zone when navigating a foreign place, which forces you to gain a sense of awareness, think outside the box, solve problems, face challenges, and learn to be open-minded. Sure, a diploma can absolutely be critical to achieving professional success. But pushing both your personal and geographical boundaries for new experiences? Now that's the secret to schoolin' life, as Beyoncé would say.
"Academic experience is certainly valuable, but travel adds a whole other element," said Gavin from Expedia. "It has the power to break down barriers, expose different cultures and change the way we see the world, which ultimately enhances your educational experience!"
This Couple's Icelandic Wedding Is a Romantic Fantasy Come to Life
Maja and Patrick fell in love with Iceland for its romantic, melancholy scenery. When the couple decided to get married, they wanted it to be an intimate affair. "With our families being spread all over the world (in China, Germany, and the UK), it was impossible to include everybody, so a private wedding followed by receptions seemed the fairest way," the newlyweds explained. "Iceland turned out to be the perfect destination – so much more breathtaking in person, every turn of the road brought us to new, spectacular views."
The pair were so enamored with the location that they drove 500 miles over the two wedding days in search of new vistas that M&J Studios so beautifully captured. "We already can't wait to go back," they said. Make sure to check out how incredible Maja and Patrick's wedding photos turned out!
This Train Passenger Woke to Find a Gift From a Stranger, and We're Crying Happy Tears
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Bonnie Burke
Every now and then, a meaningful act of human kindness has the ability to make me swallow my cynicism and smile through happy tears. Case in point: a story out of London about a young woman and a stranger's moving gesture on a train ride to Leeds. Ella Johannessen shared an experience she had on a recent trip, and the anecdote will remind you that sometimes it's the small things that make a true impact.
Ella was on the train speaking with her mom about how worried she was in regards to her finances. "I was rather stressed and upset over my financial situation and was trying to locate what had happened to £35 that had been sent to me over a bank transfer. I spoke to her about how little money I had, how worried I was about my finances and I got upset," she shared in a Facebook post.
A graduate of Leeds University, Ella told BBC that she went into debt during her last year at school because she quit her part-time job to focus on her studies.
After getting off the phone with her mom, Ella fell asleep. She woke up to find a napkin on her lap, and inside of it was £100 (about $140 USD).
"I started to cry - this is because I was incredibly thankful for your kindness to someone you don't even know," she said in her post. "After a terrible 18 months where I lost my father and both of his parents it showed me that there is kindness and good people in the world."
She thanked the person who gave her the gift, and vowed to pass the kindness on. Read her full Facebook post ahead, and remember to show kindness whenever you can. You never know what your simple gesture could mean to someone else!
Every Disney Fan Should Complete This Incredible, Edible Bucket List
If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, the abundance of food options across all four parks can be overwhelming, but rest assured that these 28 foods have been well-researched and reviewed in person so you know everything here is 100 percent worth your money (and the calories). While a few iconic treats have made the list (like the Mickey pretzel and Dole Whip), some are a little more obscure (pork nacho fries). Expect this list to be a little sweet, partially covered in gooey cheese, and just a tad bit spiked, for those partaking.
All the Times I've Been Sexually Harassed While Traveling
I am 100 percent here for the recent calling out of all horrible men who treat a woman as sexual objects against their consent. It's in trending feminist moments like these that it feels appropriate to join the conversation with stories of my own harassment and assault while traveling and just existing as a human woman.
Systematic oppression does not disappear overnight. Every time I see what's happening in the world and think to myself, "How can this still be happening in 2017?," it makes my brain hurt and spiral into a "What even is the purpose of humans on earth?" crisis. But the ignorant keep on running free with their ideals and the complicit allow it to happen.
Women are the ignored majority when it comes to people not realizing how badly we still have it in the modern world. While I still fight for justice based on the brown color of my skin, another daily battle of surviving as a woman takes place to an even further degree. I am not having racial slurs shouted at me as I walk the two blocks between my apartment and the subway; I am being spoken at like a lesser being because of my femaleness.
I am not what the media would consider "traditionally" pretty. I'm overweight, the opposite of photogenic, and have resting mean face. I am not fair-skinned nor do I have naturally straight, easily manageable hair. I try to dress fashionably, but most days I end up just wearing a t-shirt and jeans with minimal makeup of a simple cat-eye eyeliner flick I've mastered over the years. This is my average look, and it's just that: average. Despite this, I get catcalled every day, no matter what I'm wearing, even if it's just the baggiest clothes I own so I can drop off my laundry down the block and return to the safe haven of my apartment. I am never "asking for it."
I am never "asking for it."
And when I am traveling around the world, it seems sometimes that this unfortunate experience is intensified due to different cultures which have not yet seemed to find a way to give women a voice against these acts. However, even many of the Westernized places I assumed would be a bit more progressive have surprised me with the actions of the local men who violate a woman's sense of safety and autonomy. And these moments of harassment and assault have come in many different forms over my journeys abroad.
It came in the form of having a flight so delayed that I landed in Naples, Italy, and had to stay up in a train station overnight to catch the 6:45 a.m. departure to my intended destination. My lack of sleep led me to fall asleep on the train and wake up to the man next to me rubbing my thigh with a perverted look in his eye.
It came in the form of taking advantage of my nerdy, celebrity-obsessed youth by taking a bus to London in the cold of Winter and standing outside a cinema overnight so I could attend the premiere of the second Robert Downey Jr.-led Sherlock Holmes movie. As I stood there shivering in the freezing December weather with five layers of bulky coats on, I was assumed to be a prostitute by a man who kept begging me to name my price and also had my breasts violently grabbed by a random drunk passerby.
It came in the form of solo traveling in Paris and walking through the gigantic Père Lachaise Cemetery to find the grave of iconic writer Oscar Wilde and then going across the street to a small cafe to grab a bite to eat and decompress from the day. I walked to the nearest Metro stop and took the train to an entirely different part of the city and as I stepped back onto the platform, a man told me he had been watching me since the cemetery and wanted to know if he could buy me a drink (as if silently stalking me for the past two hours was something I would find chivalrous).
It came in the form of living in Los Angeles for a few months for internships and wanting to take advantage of what Hollywood had to offer and go out clubbing; of having a man come up to me and think it's hilarious to smack my breasts with a foam swim noodle and follow me around the venue to continuously laugh as he hit me - he was not even hindered as I grabbed it away from him and threw it aside and told him to leave me alone. Or even in the sleazy obvious way of an elderly gentleman in the "film biz" offering to give introduce me to connections in exchange for an "innocent" dinner date.
It came in the form of being extensively catcalled in Morocco to the point of it being hard to enjoy the beauty of the country without a constant yammering of men's voices in my ear making light of the aspects of my appearance they could isolate and squawk receptively at me.
It came in the form of sitting on a train in Sintra, Portugal, after a long day exploring the fairy-tale city and just wanting to get back to Lisbon when a man sat across from me and grabbed my bare legs. After begging him to leave me alone, he left for only a moment before coming back to keep pestering me. I stood up to leave and he grasped at my hips to try and hold me back.
It came in the form of eating dinner with my partner at a hole-in-the-wall taco place in Manhattan when a man came up to our table and got mere inches from my face, sang in my ear, and told me I was beautiful and to smile for him over and over. Silly me for thinking that having a male companion with me would stop men from getting all up in my business.
And it comes in the constant catcalling, attempted groping, and being told to "Smile, baby" that plagues every single day of my life whether I am walking around New York City or abroad somewhere. I've developed a form of PTSD as I walk the streets of the world, becoming suspicious of any man I pass, ready to wince at the disgusting words they say and attempt to ignore it as I continue walking. I do not want them to have the power they seek.
We need to talk about it more.
And we need to talk about it more. It's important to speak about what happens because many people do not believe how bad women have it on a daily basis. Sometimes our complaints are brushed off not out of malice, but because they don't also experience it. It's not like my boyfriend doesn't listen to me or have confidence in me when I tell him what I have to deal with each time I step out the door of my apartment, but he's not with me when it happens, so it's hard for him and many men to understand the extent to which it happens.
Women walk out into a world that lets us feel lesser for just existing in a female body. Believe the women who tell you what's happening. Don't make them feel like they're exaggerating or should feel lucky for having someone comment on their appearance. Stop making excuses for the behavior and check your privilege. Know that we're not humble-bragging when we say that we couldn't walk down the street without getting grossly hit on by a stranger. You don't live in the same reality as we do and all we want is someone to listen to our genuine complaints and frustrations about how we're treated and do better.
Things will take a while to change, and in the meantime, we free-spirited traveling women sadly may endure these hardships when we venture out to different countries, especially solo. And while I know I have no place to tell someone to push past it and immerse yourself in a new culture (because every woman has varying degrees of comfort when it comes to what level of harassment and assault they can handle based on past experiences in their lives), I take the approach for myself that no war has been won by staying home and not fighting.
No matter where you go, harassment will probably happen in some way, but with conversations arising around this subject and becoming a way to spark a discussion about the way women are treated - whether it be in the movie business by Hollywood executives, unfair practices in the workplace, horrifying acts of assault that end in much worse situations than I've ever known, or being grabbed on a train while on vacation - hopefully this is a way to explain some of our realities to the skeptics. Whether they listen or not, they will hear it because it's coming at them loud and vocally.
How Designer Aurora James Is Leaving Her Distinctive Footprint on Fashion
Africa is a continent brimming with a rich amalgamation of raw materials and endless inspiration spanning thousands of cultures. That influence is visible from head to toe in its inhabitants, from the immaculately decorative geles worn by Yoruba women in Nigeria to the intricately weaved kanga of the Masai in Kenya. Still, it sometimes takes a foreigner with ancestral roots to see how those styles might strike a chord outside a country's own borders. That sort of person is Aurora James.
Over the course of several visits to the continent, the New York-based Ghanaian-Canadian became particularly mesmerized by traditional South African shoemakers. Fortunately, she allowed that inspiration to guide her to launch her critically acclaimed label Brother Vellies in the Spring of 2014. The thought behind the brand was simple yet profound: to preserve the shoemaking craft in Africa and create new jobs for the artisans, specifically South-African shoemakers. Her effort paid off quickly - and bountifully.
In 2015, James was selected as a Council of Fashion Designers of America/Vogue Fashion Fund Award winner, becoming the first black woman to ever receive the coveted honor. She has gone on to show her collection in New York for six seasons and supported many artisans and South African children by working with a local school and using a portion of Brother Vellies sales to support their education. Even with all her accolades and the weight of maintaining the momentum of a flourishing brand, James remains unfazed. Today, she's steadily focused on impacting change outside of the confines of shoes and growing her brand to include other kinds of apparel. To better understand her past inspirations, current goals, and future prospects, we sat down with James, who seemed at ease calling between meetings on a Tuesday afternoon in New York. From our brief chat, we found ourselves even more enthused about what's next for James and Brother Vellies.
"I think that design was sort of just - no pun intended - woven into the DNA of who I am and how I was raised."
Grace Bukunmi: Since becoming one of the first black women to win a CFDA award, do you still find a dearth in diversity among fashion designers? If so, whose responsibility is it to rectify the imbalance?
Aurora James: There are some [designers of color] and I wish there were more. I think it kind of comes down to the way that the system's built. Not everyone still has an equal opportunity to be able to come intern in New York City for an entire Summer. That's really expensive. I think that when you take a lot of factors like that, that's where you end up seeing some of the disparity. Fashion is still a pretty old-school industry. It's not really as progressive as everyone thinks when it comes to corporate infrastructure. But is it anyone's responsibility? I don't know. I would hope that people just keep an open mind when they're hiring and not always just try to go through friends of friends of friends. And I think, hopefully, Instagram is opening peoples' eyes to all the different types of creative people out there as well.
GB: I think having sustainability as a foundation for Brother Vellies since its inception has contributed wildly to its success. Since you've expanded your collection, how have your original goals transformed?
AJ: When I first started, obviously, it was very different because I was in Africa making small batches at a time and bringing them back. So we've really been keeping our eyes on some of the bigger-picture goals. For me, that's about creating as many job opportunities in Africa as possible. We still need to make sure that we're building in a very thoughtful, cautious way. We need to make sure that we have artisan partners who are aligned with our goals and are going to make sure that everyone they're working with is taken care of. I have to think on a much larger scale now, because I can't really do some of the levels of sourcing that I did before, which was on a really micro level. Now, when I'm creating specialty products, I need to make sure that the specific product that I'm training people on is going to have some level of longevity so that they're not just not working for one season and then don't have a job afterward.
GB: I've always admired how imaginative and intricate Brother Vellies designs are. Can you describe the first piece you ever designed, either as a professional or even as a kid, and what you wanted to express with it?
AJ: To be honest, a lot of my early designs weren't related to shoes. They were related to furniture and food, if that makes any sense. I was really, really creative when it came to food and plating food as a child. And I was always super into architecture. My mom sewed a lot when I was younger. I think that design was sort of just - no pun intended - woven into the DNA of who I am and how I was raised.
GB: Your designs showcase the rich, multicultural influence of African diaspora. Can you explain why you felt it so imperative to integrate, and economically cultivate, countries like Kenya, Namibia, Ethiopia, and Nigeria?
AJ: The fashion industry has taken so much inspiration from different cultures over the years. For me, when you take something from someone, especially someone who is less fortunate than you, and you don't give them anything in return, that's a form of theft. If I was inspired by a group of people whom I could actually involve in the process, and also maintain the authenticity of the original inspiration, then why not? Just trying to replicate that process at a factory in China to me isn't the same. It's like the difference between a fake butterfly and a real butterfly. One is super magical and the other is made out of weird paper.
GB: Speaking of your work with African artisans, what has the response been from African communities whose traditional elements have inspired Brother Vellies shoes?
AJ: I think that it's a little bit mixed. I think the bulk of people are very excited and are celebrating it and are extremely happy to see their culture represented in that way. Also, because a lot of people in America are really displaced from their own cultures and roots, I think a lot of people are interested in fashion because it's an interesting way to explore your own background. With Vellies, our very first shape was this tragically uncool thing to wear in South Africa at the time when we started making it. Then we started selling it at Opening Ceremony, and JAY-Z had some, and suddenly it was like, "Oh, wow! Actually, this thing holds value and we don't have to only value things that aren't ours." Part of the goal is to change the value systems that exist there, as well. It was very jarring for me to go to Kenya and see that everyone was trying to dress like Cristiano Ronaldo. It was really disheartening to me, but I understood it; with the economy of used clothing donations there, people aren't embracing their traditional cultural apparel anymore. I hoped that by us celebrating it over here, they could also start understanding the value of their own culture that's been stolen from them.
GB: What advice would you give other women business owners who are trying to tap into their ancestral identity? Especially women of color who have been historically marginalized?
AJ: I would love to see women of color try to support each other more within the fashion space. Researching, talking to each other, sharing information, community building, etcetera. Just taking time out and being like, "I want to support you because there's a part of you that's intrinsically linked to who I am, and I want to learn more from you." Also, just remember that every time you spend money, you're voting for something and you are validating the existence of that thing. So if we don't want McDonald's to exist anymore, or we don't want to support the National Enquirer magazine, don't buy that. If you don't want to read about whatever celebrity, don't click on that. We have the power to sort of dictate those things. I think our culture will be raised up if we raise it up by engaging with it as much as possible.
GB: I would love to hear your experiences as a Canadian-born, Brooklyn-based woman who spends a good amount of time in various countries across Africa. How has that shaped your political consciousness?
AJ: I always say that America is like a cultural melting pot and Canada is more of a mosaic. In Toronto, specifically, people tend to maintain their own culture a little bit more and sort of just integrate it with other people and other ways of life. I think we kind of all celebrate our cultural differences. So that was a really great foundation to build from. Then, I was in Jamaica for three years when I was younger, so that also gave me a totally different viewpoint of the world. I also had a lot of pen pals from Africa because my grandmother sponsored children in Africa and I was always writing with them and understanding the differences of their lives vs. my life. I think that gave me an awareness of how big the world is.
Even though I can be in Canada, and someone else can be in the DRC, as a 15-year-old girl, we're kind of sharing a similar source of angst, even though the depths of their despair, at times, are definitely going to greater than mine because I have a much larger privilege than they do. We also have to acknowledge that we have access to a lot more potential than the people do in the rest of the world. We need to harness that opportunity and when we have that opportunity, we need to use it to lift other people up.
"My mom always said, 'Heels are made as a tool of suppression to stop women from being able to run away.' I'm like, 'How can we take this item and reappropriate it into a power item?'"
GB: One of your projects that did that, in a way, was your teacher project, which discussed how discarded American clothing piling up in countries like Kenya was becoming a huge problem. How do you think Americans can assist to a global good mission while also being environmentally conscious?
AJ: I think that we need to just focus on actual, longterm job creation. If you have a vested interest in Africa, then you should try your very best to support things that are creating jobs there. If you're Tom's Shoes, for example, maybe instead of just making shoes in China and then giving a free pair to someone in Africa, why don't you consider moving that production to Africa? I choose to do it my way, because I felt like that was the way that it worked for me, and I feel like the one-for-one model works in certain situations that maybe isn't the best in others. But nonetheless, it was very well-intentioned.
GB: Who are women of color from the next generation who inspire you?
AJ: I have a really amazing intern named Mercedes who has been helping me find workshops in Mexico to make shoes for my pre-Fall collection. She can't even work legally in this country right now because she only has a student visa, but I told her that I wanted to make something there, and she has been working to make it happen because she understands the importance of it. The model Paloma is really amazing. I think that she's doing a lot for women who don't fit into the traditional body sizes that we see in fashion, typically. Yara Shahidi. She's just absolutely mind-blowing. So smart, so talented, so cognizant of everything that needs to happen in the world, and she really inspires me. When I hear her talk, I don't have to worry about a thing, because the kids are going to be all right.
GB: Your brand was founded on sustainability in Africa. Do you think you're likely to take that model to other parts of the world?
AJ: Yeah, for sure. I love Africa, and I'm always going to celebrate it. But there's definitely opportunity to work with other artisans and support other artisans and do business with other artisans in different places. There are some traditional Mexican shoes that I have worn at different points in my life that I think are amazing, and there are so many cobblers there making those shoes. By all means, let's celebrate that, too. I think people are so rigid. "You said Africa!" And it's like, OK, well, we're all evolving and changing. I love Africa, it's huge for us, but does that mean that I'm going to exclude Mexico if Mexico's doing something amazing? No. Of course not. Why would I? We also do a little bit of work in Haiti as well through one of our sandals called the Oroboro sandal.
GB: What are some things that you're looking forward to expanding on in this new year?
AJ: I would say that I'm looking forward to increasing voter registration among African-American women. Beyond that, we just had our pre-Fall collection, and I'm really incredibly inspired and excited about that. I've changed so many different colors that we're using and they're a lot more bold. In light of everything that's going on in the world, I still want to make sure that women feel great being women and being sexual and being strong and not letting anyone else make us scared to do that or be that. With Brother Vellies, I'm definitely going to continue using shoes as a way to express ourselves as strong women. My mom always said, "Heels are made as a tool of suppression to stop women from being able to run away." I'm like, "How can we take this item and reappropriate it into a power item?" Have women be making the shoes and designing the shoes and wearing the shoes and kicking butt in the shoes and raising capital in the shoes and running for office in the shoes.
It Took Us All of 2 Seconds to Fall in Love With Kate Middleton's Velvet Dress
Kate Middleton is currently on a royal tour of Sweden and Norway. After standing out in a gold floral number by Erdem, the Duchess of Cambridge decided to wear another stunning ensemble by the British designer. While attending a reception at Stockholm's Fotografiska Gallery, Kate stood by Prince William's side wearing a blue velvet dress that was covered with a floral pattern. Her bell-sleeved dress came with a ribbon belt that accentuated her adorable baby bump. Read on to see her beautiful look and buy similar versions of her sold-out dress ahead.
You Will Gasp Over These 21 Rose Gold Items From Amazon - All Under $20
If you think rose gold products have to be pricey, you are so very wrong. Amazon offers all sorts of gorgeous products, and we chose our favorite under $20. We're talking jewelry, shoes, tech accessories, home decor, and more. Many of these items are offered on Amazon Prime, so you can get them in as little as two days. Get ready to feast your eyes on plenty of pretty things!
Kate Moss's Cool Girl '90s Style Is Just as Covetable Now
In July 1990, a fresh-faced Kate Moss graced the cover of The Face magazine. The accompanying spread, famously shot by photographer Corinne Day in Camber Sands, England, launched her career as a model. It caught the attention of the team at Calvin Klein, who soon had a topless Kate posing with Mark Wahlberg for one of the brand's most famous underwear campaigns, as well as signing her as the face of the fragrance Obsession. Along with her supermodel pals, Kate Moss ruled the '90s: she even had a hot Hollywood boyfriend in Johnny Depp.
Those early days gave us a glimpse at an evolving personal style that would turn her into an enduring style icon, from her predilection for all-black outfits, to a passion for simple satin slip dresses. Even in her early 20s, Kate knew exactly how to put together an outfit that would turn heads with its simplicity and nonchalance (um, and those supermodel good looks). Take a look back at some of Kate's early appearances now, as we plan exactly how to re-create some of her most memorable '90s looks for ourselves!
Prepare to Fall in Love With These 15 Stylish Sneakers - All Under $50
My closet is filled to the brim with sneakers. Needless to say, I'm pretty obsessed with the versatile shoes and will wear them anytime, anywhere. If you have a relatable addiction to kicks, you know how good it feels to put on a fresh pair. If you feel like treating yourself to some, you don't need to spend a fortune to do so. A ton of popular brands are constantly releasing new designs that are totally worth it. We shopped for you and found everything from plain canvas choices to glitter and embellished picks. Clear out your closet and prepare to make room for these stylish pairs.
12 Neutral Sweaters That Are Chic, Comfortable, and Everything You Need Right Now
My closet is filled with so many stacks of sweaters I've lost count, and I can't stop buying more. If you can relate to my addiction you know that wearing the perfect luxe sweater can instantly dress up any outfit. From sporting one with jeans on a cool Winter weekend to matching one with trousers at work, they never get old. In case you need more convincing, we rounded up a list of neutral and stylish pieces that you can keep in your wardrobe for years - they never go out of style! Shop our favorites.
21 Stunning Dresses That Will Have All Eyes on You at Your Engagement Party
Finding the right dress for every occasion can sometimes be stressful, but when it comes to your engagement party, you have the freedom to choose a fun option that reflects your personal style. So instead of digging through your closet and trying to make an old one work, you should get a new piece that you'll remember forever. To make it easier for you, we rounded up a list of both stylish and versatile picks so you can rewear them after the event and get your money's worth. From floral prints to sexy silks and delicate lace, prepare to obsess over these pretty choices.
44 Reasons Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden Is the Royal Glamazon You Need to Follow
If your royal style inspiration is limited to Kate Middleton, girl, you've got to expand your horizons. Don't get us wrong, Kate's sophisticated looks provide countless outfit ideas we consider on the regular, but there are plenty of queens and princesses up to par - Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden included. Not only is the duchess expected to inherit the throne, but she's got a vibrant wardrobe that will help her make power moves.
Jaw-dropping brooches and jewels, over-the-top tiaras, and glamorous gowns covered in sequins are all go-tos for Victoria, and her maternity style was just as regal. But sans baby bump, we expect the crown princess to take even more style risks. Just wait until you see her Pär Engsheden-designed wedding gown! Read on to see the 44 reasons this Swedish duchess, who happens to favor purple, is a fashion icon in her own right. We recommend you start following her, stat.
Miley Cyrus's Sexy "Suit" Will Play All Sorts of Tricks on Your Eyes
After taking our breath away in a Disney-princess-worthy gown at the Grammys, Miley Cyrus decided to have some fun with a different outfit. Miley posted a couple of pictures on Instagram wearing what we thought was a tuxedo at first. When we zoomed in closer, we realized Miley's jacket was actually floating and somehow strategically covering her chest. She turned around to reveal her Jean Paul Gaultier tux was actually a jumpsuit. Keep reading to have a look at her interesting ensemble and buy similar versions of her bold look.
Kate Middleton's Houndstooth Coat Is Here to Brighten Your Morning
On the second day of Kate Middleton's royal tour of Sweden and Norway, she bestowed us with even more outfit inspiration. After having spent the evening with Alicia Vikander in a beautiful gold Erdem gown, the Duchess of Cambridge stepped out for a morning with children wearing a coat from another one of her favorite brands, Catherine Walker.
The red and white houndstooth piece couldn't have been more perfect for Kate. Accessorized with a pair of fringed heels from Tod's, her gorgeous Chanel bag, and a pair of pearl earrings by the Swedish brand In2Design, it was a great pop of color, which perfectly complemented her cream Alexander McQueen dress. Read on to get a closer look at her outfit, shop similar options for your own outerwear collection, then see what Princess Victoria wore for the occasion.
Kate Middleton, I Like Your Dress, but I Can't Stop Thinking About Princess Victoria's Pantsuit
We're not here to compare royal wardrobes. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden has a signature look that's actually pretty different than that of Kate Middleton's. But since Kate is visiting Sweden on an official tour, naturally, we've been excited to see what she packed for her travels. On day two, she wore a houndstooth Catherine Walker coat that easily stole the spotlight away from her husband and their Swedish hosts. Meanwhile, Victoria stood by Kate's side in pastels that were certainly less vibrant.
But when both ladies shed their coats inside the Matteusskolan school in Stockholm, we laid eyes on Princess Victoria's Rodebjer pantsuit ($800) and instantly fell in love with the mint shade and the wide belt that cinched her waist. This was a delicate take on a power-woman look, played up by a Victorian-inspired, ruffled blouse and pearls. We were so happy to find that Victoria's set is still shoppable, but if you, too, are the type of gal who'd choose work pants over a dress any day of the week, read on to shop all the similar designs we found when we looked.
Kim Kardashian's Scandalous Thong Bikinigram Has Landed Her in Some Hot Water
Kim Kardashian is constantly posting photos of herself wearing bikinis (or lack thereof) on Instagram. Most recently, her shoot with photographer Marcus Hyde has landed her in some hot water. For the scandalous swimsuit shoot, Kim posed seductively in a pair of string thong bottoms and a see-through ribbed white tee. She styled her white thong with a pair of gray high socks and a long furry coat. But it wasn't just Kim's scantily clad ensemble that was making waves on the internet; it was also the star's hair. Many people were enraged by the fact Kim wore cornrows which she called "Bo Derek braids" during the photo shoot and called her out for cultural appropriation. (Side note: this isn't the first time Kim has worn a culturally inappropriate hairstyle. Kim responded back to the comments by captioning one of her photos, "Hi, can I get zero f***s please, thanks."
Perez Hilton posted a screen shot of Kim's hair asking what his followers thought about the look. Actress Lindsay Lohan actually commented on the photo writing, "I am confused." Kim immediately responded back, "@linsdaylohan you know what's confusing . . . your sudden foreign accent." Keep reading to have a look at Kim's controversial look ahead.
10 White Dresses Perfect For Your Wedding Celebrations - All Under $30 From Amazon
There are so many outfits to shop for when it comes to your wedding. While most brides splurge on their dream dress, they still have to worry about finding an engagement party and rehearsal dinner outfit, too. To save money for your big day, try getting something more affordable for those smaller events. We looked to Amazon because the mega retailer carries a ton of stylish brands that aren't expensive. We found everything from pretty lace choices to sleek off-the-shoulder pieces. Shop these hot picks.
Why It's Time to Celebrate Average-Size Women
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Paul KabataProduct Credits: (model on left) Zara Jacket, Levis Jeans, AUrate Long Bar Earrings, (model on right) Vince Jean Jacket, Jennifer Fisher Earrings, Brockenbow Jeans, Jerome Dreyfuss Bag, Tretorn Shoes
This post has been updated with new information.
Over the past few years, more and more brands have woken up to the fact that women come in all shapes and sizes. Not a year has gone by that hasn't been coined "the year of plus-size" by one publication or another. We've seen models like Ashley Graham and Robyn Lawley booking major campaigns (including the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition cover), and dozens of brands that previously only catered to slim women have launched plus or curve ranges; amongst them ASOS, Boohoo, and White House Black Market.
But to many, all of this positive action still feels like nothing more than a token nod in the right direction: a couple of models over a size 6 featured in big campaigns, a few celebrity fashion ranges that don't stop at size "large", perhaps a few nice things said about the tiny handful of actresses on the red carpet wearing something other than a sample size. But we are a long way from this industry ever truly embracing the breadth of shapes, sizes, and ethnicities of modern women. Bryce Dallas Howard still buys her award show dresses off the rack because designers have little choice in her size. Leslie Jones struggled to find anyone to dress her for the Ghostbusters premiere. When plus size blogger Callie Thorpe was featured in a Miss Vogue swimwear gallery, the backlash from some people online was horrifying.
As ever, the fashion industry itself is still far behind the world of influencers and bloggers. While the Victoria's Secret runway show was still sorely lacking in any form of body diversity, plus-size blogs are thriving, particularly in the US and the UK, where bloggers are collaborating on fashion lines, appearing on TV, and modeling for global brands. From Gabi Gregg to Georgina Horne, women have successfully turned their curves into careers. The Instagram hashtag #effyourbeautystandards has taken off to the point where the woman behind it, Tess Holliday, was signed to a major modeling agency despite being neither the height nor weight of your "average" plus-size model.
Because, as many of us have now realized, most plus-size models are not really plus-size. At least not in the way you'd imagine. Fashion has always thrived on aspiration, and just as runway models tend to be right on the lowest end of the "straight" size spectrum, plus-size models actually straddle the middle ground - the sizes that lurk at the back of the rail at high fashion stores but also mark the start of many plus-size ranges - 12, 14, possibly 16. This has started an unending argument about what "plus-size" truly is (and even a call to #droptheplus) as we question whether the models used really represent the women buying plus-size clothing (The short answer is no. Just like runway models don't represent people who buy a size 6 or 8).
Amongst those to come under fire was ASOS, whose Curve range started at a US size 14 when it launched (it now begins at a US 12). The brand has made an effort to use larger models following negative feedback from consumers, but when it launched, Bree Warren was a Curve model. Her model card lists her as having a 29-inch waist, which makes her closer to a size 8-10 than the 14 that the range started at.
Image Source: Getty / Kris Connor
Bree is stunning and excellent at her job (I immediately want to buy every "breekini" she models on her Instagram) but she's hardly representative of the 14-plus woman who were shopping for ASOS Curve when it launched.
Straddling two sides of the industry, women like Bree have been described as everything from mid-sized, to "in-betweeners". In model agency terms, they may count as "plus" or "curve", but that's not really the whole story.
In 2014, model Myla Dalbesio was signed for a big Calvin Klein campaign. Despite the fact Calvin Klein did not identify her as plus-size, the shock headlines quickly started anyway. A huge fashion brand was using a plus-size model for the first time! The truth? Dalbesio was a US size 10 with similar measurements to Bree Warren. She's also a statuesque 5'11". In the campaign she looks amazing and we should have just celebrated the fact a woman with a body slightly closer to that of many consumers was being represented in fashion. But because of the label, things went the other way entirely, as people complained she wasn't plus-size enough.
Source: Calvin Klein
What Dalbesio told Yahoo Style about the whole furore around her size sums up exactly how I feel every time I post a photo of myself online or try on a dress in H&M. I wear a UK size 14 (US size 10). Right now, my BMI is a little above healthy. I've been called "fat" and "chubby" more times than I care to mention. I would look ridiculous in the kind of outfits I see many fashion bloggers sporting. But I don't really fit into the plus size community either. I have had my body shape described as everything from "normal" to "Adele-sized" (all comparisons to Adele are gratefully accepted). When you straddle two very different sides of an industry, finding your place is difficult. As Dalbesio said back in 2014:
"I can never figure out where I fit in, and I'm always making someone mad. I'm not skinny-skinny, but I'm not fat and fabulous either. I'm a size 10 (US). There's been a whole public outcry about me not being as big as people think I should be. They say, 'What do you have to complain about? You have a great body.' But if you're a size 6 or 10, that doesn't mean you don't need to see yourself represented too."
The truth is, brands see using these in-between models as a "safe" way to dip their toes into unfamiliar waters. Rather than jumping from a size 2 to a size 18, they'll call on someone like Iskra Lawrence, who is a size 10 with the kind of curves you only see once in a lifetime. There has long been controversy over the so-called "glorification" of plus-size, with arguments that we have gone from one extreme to another. But is this really true, given that the majority of popular "plus-size models" are barely even a size 12? The plus-size industry is a huge one that will continue to grow, and perhaps by removing the labels on models who do not fairly represent their consumers, the plus-size industry will have the opportunity to diversify even more.
In an ideal world, in-between models should not be seen as token "real girls" alongside their size-0 colleagues. It just shouldn't even be mentioned. The average female dress size varies depending on the study, but most agree it's somewhere around 14 to 16 in the USA. In the UK, it's around a US 12. Naysayers have often complained that rather than using models who are either size 0 or size 18 with nothing in between, we should be showing a breadth of sizes. So where better to start than the middle? Despite apparently being "average" in size, women like me are not really the focus of anyone's attention in the industry!
What I remind myself is that in truth we are the luckiest of the lot, even if we don't feel like it sometimes. Those of us who're a size 10 - 14 can technically shop at more retailers than anyone of any other size. We can buy standard and plus-size clothes. Obviously, the disappointment comes when you then realise that neither are designed with us in mind. I get just as many funny looks from shop assistants when I walk into a plus-size retailer as I do when I ask if something in a bigger size at Urban Outfitters. But I have the option, something many other women are not lucky enough to have.
So it really comes down to being creative, and using that choice to build the perfect wardrobe. In-betweeners become experts at picking and choosing items from various retailers, learning what works and what doesn't from each range. As we often have larger busts and curvier hips and butts to consider, we rarely find one size fits all, and we have to shop around. We don't have many people in the public eye to look to for inspiration, because so often with fame comes pressure to lose weight and put out an fitness DVD. We look for inspiration online, as our blogosphere is growing too. More brands are adjusting their in-store displays to reference our body types. Hell, even Victoria Beckham now makes dresses in our size!
The future is ours, because we know the real truth. Years of not knowing quite where we fit has taught us that "normal" and "average" don't really exist, and while every body is different, all of them are brilliant. And as we continue to see more of them represented in fashion, it's our time to to shine.
Note: Unless otherwise stated, all dress sizes referenced are US sizes.
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