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19 Fall-Friendly Coats You Can Get For Under-$150

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Come fall, we've only got one thing on our mind: staying warm. While tights, chunky sweaters, and yes, leggings, deserve a shout-out for helping us stay heated, the real MVP of the latter half of the year is our trusty outerwear. From a fluffy sherpa jacket to the quintessential camel waist-tie, our coats are what keep our spirits up, no matter how cold it is outside. And when you're over it and want to wear the same sweats and tee combo for the third day in a row, your coat has you, and your outfit, covered. Literally.

As our tastes in outerwear varies from cropped and furry to sleek and knee-length, so do our budgets. The cost of a nice coat can run higher than we're comfortable shelling in out in one setting, so we set off to prove you can still get a good coat for less than your Thanksgiving flight home. Ahead are 19 picks under $150 that are a far cry from the same black pea coat you've been wearing out for years. Bring it on winter.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Sephora Has All The New Hair Products You Need For Fall

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If you frequent Sephora, then you're very familiar with the rigmarole that is "I'm just running in to grab [insert anything here]." You need a new Benefit mascara, and you walk out with that, plus a plastic tin of Cocofloss you eyed while standing in the checkout line, a few sheet masks, and a discounted cologne for your dad's birthday. Well, the temptation is about to get even worse, because the cult store's hair section just grew...again.

No matter your budget or need — cheap semi-permanent pink hair dye for Halloween or the best hairdryer money can buy — you can find it all at Sephora this fall. Scroll through to see all the best, fresh, new arrivals in haircare, ahead.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

You may have heard the claims that Dyson's new Airwrap hairdryer will replace every hot tool in your bathroom. For those intrigued, and able to entertain the $500 price tag , Sephora has the dryer, plus all the fancy attachments.



Dyson Airwrap™ Styler, $499, available at Sephora

Bumble and bumble's new glimmer finishing spray is like Lemonhead for your hair.



Bumble and bumble Glimmer Finishing Spray, $17, available at Sephora

Unfortunately, there's no quick fix for a chronically dry scalp — at least not if you're looking for lasting results. This leave-in treatment is meant to be used three times per week for four weeks. Not only will it give you instant itch relief, but it also works to balance your scalp's microbiome , so you're flake free for the long haul.



Living Proof Restore Dry Scalp Treatment, $32, available at Sephora

Because you're probably picking up your hair dryer more often — now that the oppressive summer heat is behind us — you might find yourself in need of a new round brush. This one has bristles infused with tourmaline ions, which help dry hair faster, adds shine, and eliminates frizz during heat styling, all of which leaves hair soft and bouncy.



Sephora Collection BOUNCE: Round Thermal Brush, $18, available at Sephora

Halloween is quickly approaching, so now's the time to stock up on some good ol' semi-permanent hair dye. These Good Dye Young dyes are bright, which means you can go all out with your hot pink hair, without having to wear a scratchy wig all night.



Good Dye Young Semi-Permanent Hair Color, $18, available at Sephora

Charcoal shampoo is not revolutionary, but pink charcoal? Ee've never seen that before. The color comes from the infusion of pink clay, which works with the charcoal additive to draw out scalp buildup without striping away the skin's essential oils.



Amika Reset Pink Charcoal Scalp Cleansing Oil, $25, available at Sephora

Kérastase recently dropped a few fresh, new iterations of its luxe potted hair masks — and this one is our favorite. No matter your texture, a dollop of this leave-in mask will give you bounce and definition, leaving your hair glossy and smooth.



Kerastase Hair Discipline Mask for Curly Hair, $59, available at Sephora

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Emma Stone's New Haircut Is The No-Fuss Style We Needed For Fall

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It's already October and we expect you've probably asked yourself, at least once or twice, What haircut should I get for fall?

Talk to a friend, hairstylist, or simply scroll through your Instagram saves and you'll spot a feast of inspiration, like Lady Gaga in micro-bangs, Cara Delevingne still rocking a pixie, and Bella Hadid getting yet another blunt trim on her '90s bob. But, what if you want inspo that's neither dramatic or transformative? Who do you look to if you want a no-fuss haircut that's equally low-maintenance and refreshing on your dead ends? Our suggestion: Emma Stone.

Yep, the Maniac star just a got a haircut, but it's nothing to scream about — and perhaps that's exactly why we love it. Mara Roszak, Stone's long-time hairstylist, debuted the actress' new style on Instagram, co-signing the look with a quick caption, "Someone got a chop chop✂️ today! Blunt & little shorter in the back."

Although Stone is no stranger to rocking shorter styles (she's maintained something between a bob and a chest-grazing length for years), it's this trimmed lob you should take straight to the salon. Why? Not only will it get you out of the chair in under an hour, but it's also a take on a rad style trending in New York.

Joseph Maine, a stylist at Serge Normant at John Frieda Salon, told us that blunt bobs are cool (we get it), but adding invisible layers to a longer look can add quick texture where it otherwise wouldn't be with such a straightforward style. In Stone's case, Roszak kept the length in the back shorter than the front — a trick that adds movement to your wash-and-go style without even really trying.

Not like we should be too surprised Stone is ahead of the curve. After all, she's the one who convinced us perms were cool again — and that's saying something.

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5 Beauty Lessons We Learned From Practical Magic

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5 Beauty Lessons We Learned From Practical Magic

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Before Netflix made cult movies their own subcategory on the streaming service, niche films like Heathers, The Room, and Monty Python and the Holy Grail had no place in your queue. Back then, you were a part of a small, passionate fanbase that would resort to watching the films alone on DVD whenever your roommate was out of town because they just "wouldn't get it."

These days, that's not the case. Thanks to blockbuster remakes and reboots, our go-to cult favorites are getting a second life with a warm welcome from wider audiences. That's exactly why we're celebrating the anniversary of one cult film that remains more popular now than it was when it first premiered: Practical Magic. Although the 1998 film still holds a 20% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, that doesn't change how dedicated fans are to this movie.

The movie taught us a lot, like how to overcome the haters, to never trust Transylvanian cowboys, and how to make a really good midnight margarita. But the '90s beauty trends riddled throughout the movie shouldn't be overlooked, either. In fact, we're still rocking most of them today, and maybe a few for Halloween.

In honor of Practical Magic 's two-decade anniversary, we rounded up the best beauty lessons we learned from the film — plus a few looks worth copying — ahead.

Green Beauty Was Cool Before Sephora Said So

Before Sephora had its green stamp of approval and way ahead of Goop, Sally Owens formulated, packaged, and sold her very own body-care products in a tiny shop in New England (the movie was really filmed in Washington, but you get the point). Sure, she was totally fictional, but her potions shop for self-care goodies would be a major hit today.

Photo: Moviestore Collection/REX/Shutterstock.

Never Go Without SPF — Even If You're A Witch

This was never outwardly said, but it's clear Gillian kept her skin protected throughout her time in L.A. Whether she was partying by the pool or dancing in a beachside cabana, Gillian relied on SPF (and maybe a little bit of magic) to keep her fair skin looking luminous.

Photo: Moviestore Collection/REX/Shutterstock.

Smoky Eyes Aren't Just Cool After Dark

You've heard it before and you'll probably hear it for the rest of time: Smoky eyes don't go out of style. Although it's always been a universally flattering trend, it's Gillian's '90s take (lots of kohl liner and even more gray shadow) we love the most.

Photo: Moviestore Collection/REX/Shutterstock.

Wrist Tattoos Aren't Just An L.A. Thing

Gillian was rocking a tiny snake on her arm decades before the minimalist tattoo phenomenon hit both coasts. Count us inspired and ready to get our own wrist tattoos ASAP.

Photo: Moviestore Collection/REX/Shutterstock.

A '90s Bang Is Always The Right Move

There's no shortage of bang inspiration in this movie, that's for sure. Not only do Gillian and Sally have their own iterations on the timeless cut, but so does Sally's eldest daughter. Whether you're looking for fringe that's wispy, center-parted, or simply trimmed into face-framing layers, Practical Magic has plenty of options to consider.

Photo: Moviestore Collection/REX/Shutterstock.

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The Best Products To Soothe Dry, Itchy Skin

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As much as we love to talk about mascara and lipstick, sometimes we need to get into the nitty-gritty of beauty. Sure, we could wax poetic about acne, dullness, and the like — but there's another skin ailment that most of us suffer through (and no one seems to talk about): itchy, irritated skin.

And now that we're at the start of the cold weather season, tight, itchy, and sometimes even cracked skin is about to hit its peak. So, we rounded up a few proven skin soothers that alleviate the urge to scratch. Check them out in the slides ahead.

Chapped lips, dry elbows, eczema — they don't stand a chance against this emollient ointment.



CeraVe Healing Ointment , $16.19, available at Target

We all know that dry air can wreak havoc on sensitive, eczema-prone skin. That's why we reach for hydrating and soothing creams like this one.



Avène Skin Recovery Cream, $35, available at DermStore

This rich cream doesn't contain any chemical dyes, lanolin, fragrance, parabens, or formaldehyde that could potentially irritate your already sensitive skin.



Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream, $13.39, available at Amazon

This gentle bar soap isn't drying like so many of its similarly solid counterparts. It's packed with allantoin, colloidal oatmeal, squalene, and shea butter to soothe and moisturize irritated skin.



First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Gentle Cleansing Bar , $14, available at DermStore

Although this body oil is technically for babies, we love using it post-shower to hydrate and soothe our dry, sensitive skin.



Burt's Bees Baby Nourishing Baby Oil, $9, available at Burt's Bees®

This body wash is formulated with eczema-prone skin in mind. It's super-gentle and free of any artificial fragrances and parabens, meaning it won't irritate itchy skin. Plus, unlike most body washes, this one never makes our skin feel tight or parched after a shower because of the shea butter and sunflower-seed oil in the formula.



Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Body Wash, $14.99, available at Bed Bath & Beyond

For anyone with eczema, this hydrocortisone cream is a great over-the-counter option to treat dry, raw patches.



Cortizone 10 Intensive Healing Anti-Itch Crème , $6.49, available at Target

This is, by far, one of the the best hand creams we've tried. It's super hydrating, yet absorbs in a matter of seconds. Plus, since the formula is infused with aloe vera and chamomile, it's a great treatment for itchy, eczema-prone skin, too.



Skinfix Ultra Rich Hand Cream , $9.99, available at Target

Although the directions on this pack of bath salts call for just two cups, we like to double the amount for a super soothing soak. Mixed in with the epsom salts are bits of colloidal oatmeal, which coddle inflamed skin.



Dr. Teal's Sensitive Skin Soaking Solution Eczema Therapy, $4.62, available at Walmart

Next time you feel an urge to scratch, reach for the aloe vera gel you've got relegated to your sunscreen stash. The cooling gel doesn't just relieve sunburns — in a pinch, it immediately alleviates skin irritations, too. Plus, you can get a pretty sizable tube for less than a fiver.



Fruit Of The Earth Aloe Vera , $4.49, available at walgreens.com

If you have easily irritated skin, chances are you've tried and loved this no-frills lotion. The lightweight formula is enriched with colloidal oatmeal, which we know calms skin on contact.



Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion , $6.99, available at Target

It's no secret that South Korean beauty products are becoming more popular and rightfully so: With all the natural ingredients and innovative formulas — like this soothing serum — what's there not to love? This calming product works to treat and refresh red and inflamed skin, while also giving it the moisture it needs.



Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Serum, $22, available at Soko Glam

Did you know that your skin is most receptive to hydration when it's wet? That's where this lotion comes in. You apply it right after you get out of the shower while your body is still damp, and allow the moisturizer to melt onto your skin.



Curél Hydra Therapy Itch Defense Wet Skin Moisturizer, $10.94, available at Walmart

Want to multitask and treat your irritated skin while you sleep? Just rub this overnight oil on your face before going to bed, and let its skin-calming properties go to work as you catch up on z's.



FARSÁLI Volcanic Elixir Polynesian Beauty Oil, $39, available at Sephora

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Proof That After 50 Years, This Iconic American Brand Is More Timeless Than Ever

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Fifty years is a long time, especially when it comes to fashion. Turning the big five-o this year is none other than iconic American brand Ralph Lauren. Through the decades, the heritage brand has remained a recognizable household name, at the top of our shopping lists, and on the forefront of our IG feeds — all of which are no small feat.

This is the label that made polo shirts a thing and that continues to give us fresh, modern wears that never fail to elevate our wardrobes — everyday basics and unforgettable statement pieces alike. To honor this milestone anniversary, take a look at how some of our favorite style stars are continuing to make RL pieces their own today. From neutral knit maxi-dresses paired with polished, navy blazers to monochrome pantsuits dressed down with chunky sneakers, 50 is looking pretty good.

Nail a tailored, collegiate vibe in a double-breasted blazer with a neutral, long-sleeve maxi-dress.

@blakevond

What's more iconic than a crisp, white button-up and an all-American pair of jeans? We'll wait.

@lindsaymarcella

Let's be real: Turtlenecks are the most underrated staple of our seasonal wardrobes. This cozy, ivory option will go with anything.

@alyssainthecity

Dress down a gray pantsuit with sporty accessories, like fresh white sneaks and a mini crossbody bag.

@rutaenroute

Consider a chunky knit and houndstooth tweed blazer your never-fail fall getup.

@chelseaasoflate

Brighten up a camel coat and subtle layers with a pop of cherry red — bag, shoes, or both.

@jenniferlake

Add a mod twist to a black cashmere midi-dress by throwing on lucite hoop earrings.

@waityouneedthis

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How These Female Breadwinners Defy Tradition — & Break Stereotypes

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Connecting Thread: India (Full)

Some American workers dream of working from home — creating our own hours, providing for ourselves, while having the flexibility to take care of our families.

Now, imagine this life in India, but with no electricity, no running water, and barely any access to education. That’s what life is like for the beading breadwinners of Bareilly, highly talented artisans commissioned by designers such as Dolce & Gabbana, AllSaints, and Ralph Lauren. These are the protagonists of the latest documentary film from UNLEASHED, featuring female artisans around the world.

Gudia Khan, Fulwano Noor Bano, and Nazama Begam are going against tradition and working to help support their families. Begam, in particular, works so her children can continue their education.

“After [my children] finish their studies, I want them to get jobs,” Begam says. “They’re not ready for marriage. I want them to study first.”

UNLEASHED co-founders Jaclynn Brennan and Kara Ross discovered these revolutionary artisans after researching beading trends. When they discovered Adda, a popular embroidering-style in India, they got in touch with one of the production managers who oversees the women featured here. Ross and Brennan flew to Bareilly to check out the women's impressive handmade work.

“We were shocked,” Brennan told Refinery29 in a phone interview. “These women sit on the floor of their hutch hours on end and never got credit or recognition. We made it our mission to tell their stories and share what motivates them.”

During their two-week journey with the artisans, UNLEASHED commissioned the women to bead at 1.5 times the wages paid by couture brands, in addition to bringing Gudia Khan, the main subject of the film, to Delhi to debut her work at the FDCI Amazon India Fashion Week.

Khan, who became the financial and emotional head of her family after her father passed away, works to take care of her mother and siblings. “I think a woman can pick up work from outside the home and then do the work in her own home with honor,” Khan says in the film.

As for Begam? Her goals are already in fruition, with her work inspiring her own daughters. “After I finish my studies, I will relieve my mother from this work,” Begam’s daughter says in the film. “I’d also like to take her on vacation.”

Watch the entire film above.

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4 Glitter Sprays That Won't Mess Up Your Hair This Halloween

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With less than two weeks now until Halloween, chances are high that you've already decided on what you're going to be. So now it's time to think about the kinds of makeup, nails, and hairstyles are going to take your costume from good to exceedingly great. The easiest way to make sure all eyes are on you this Halloween? A shit ton of glitter of course.

Like, why would you dress up as just a zombie rather than a glittery zombie? Why would even think to go as Cardi B when you could go as super sparkly Cardi B?

With innate dramatic flair, glitter for Halloween is a necessity, and we're not just talking about glitter eyeshadow here. Glitter has every right to be in your hair too. And thanks to more high-quality brands getting into the glitter hairspray trend, these aren't gonna totally ruin your hair for a week.

We rounded up our favorite glitter hairsprays that won't destroy your hair, or your bathroom, ahead.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

A Refinery29 staffer liked this glitter spray so much, she wore it daily for a week — waaaay ahead of any scheduled costume parties. “It creates the perfect veil of shimmer that makes your hair look shiny, while still feeling soft and touchable,” says Mi-Anne Chan. “Rather than leaving your head looking like a disco ball, this spray lightly mists your hair with tiny silver sparkles. In fact, the effect is so sheer that you can only see the glitter when your hair catches the light just so.”

A bonus with this glitter spray too is that it contains a few booster ingredients aimed at helping condition the hair, including moonstone extract, coconut fruit extract, and hydrolyzed pea protein.



IGK Preparty Hair Strobing Glitter Spray, $16, available at Sephora

While this formula doesn’t contain all the hair-nourishing ingredients found in the IGK, this is the formula to use if you've got a Kesha-level love of glitter.

Even though we aimed strictly for the hair when pressing the canister’s nozzle for the first time, falling particles festooned our clothes, face, arms, shoes, and floor in silver specks. Pro tip: Strip down, cover skin and face with towels, then spray. When in the sun and club lights, our hair (and shoulders) sparkled like Cinderella’s, but when the clock struck midnight and we were ready to wash the sparkle away, not a regular shampoo, apple cider vinegar rinse, or even swim in a pool could do the job. As glitter started to cake around our hairline, we pulled out the big guns: a meticulous wash with Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo, which finally did the trick.



Jerome Russell Jerome Russell B Wild Hair and Body Glitter, $6.38, available at Amazon

This sea salt spray is more about more shimmer than glitter, but leads to gorgeous results all the same. (Just prepare to spray a ton if you're after a really noticeable amount of sparkle.) With organic aloe vera, sea kelp extract, and essential oils like rose geranium and palmarosa, the spray adds moisture to the hair while nourishing the scalp, with a beach-y rose scent that's irresistible. If silver doesn't meld with your costume, Captain Blankenship has this formula in gold and rose gold too.



Captain Blankenship Silver Fox Sea Salt Shimmer Spray, $28, available at captainblankenship.com

If you like the idea of showering your locks with a rose gold-colored mist, but don't want to spend nearly $30 to do it, this Kristin Ess formula in a chic little rose gold can is a solid alternative. Unlike all these other sprays, this one is best used in-shower, as damp hair better absorbs the color and shimmer. Your bathroom counter will thank you.



Kristin Ess Kristin Ess Rose Gold Temporary Tint, $12, available at Target

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How To Get Someone Out Of Your Head

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Have you ever found yourself unable to stop thinking about someone in your every waking moment? A new crush you can't stop Insta-stalking? The ex you can't get over? The new acquaintance you're dying to be friends with?

Kate Stewart, a psychotherapist and dating coach, says that if you can't get someone out of your head, you can likely blame your brain chemicals — especially if your obsession is with someone you've just met.

Stewart says that when we bond with someone, that triggers a release of dopamine in the brain, which is a feel-good chemical that's released when you achieve a goal you've worked really hard for.

"When we ruminate and really obsess about someone, it’s because the dopamine response has gotten triggered," she says.

That's why, more often than not, you obsess over people you don't really know quite as well — as opposed to someone you've been in a relationship with for five years.

"Dopamine draws people together and when they’ve been together a little longer, the oxytocin sets in and that’s a bonding hormone," Stewart says. "It’s more about comfort and stability."

Eventually, you'll likely stop thinking about them so much, either because you've found someone new to think about, or you've realized that the person you can't stop thinking about wasn't as great as you initially thought. But that beginning stage — where they seem to occupy every part of your waking mind — can be tough to get through.

If you want to stop thinking about them, Stewart says that unfortunately, there's no fail-proof method to completely get them out of your head.

The one thing you can do? Distract yourself.

"What I usually tell people is, when you catch yourself thinking about someone, turn to something else that you can think about, whether it's a project you want to do, or something else positive," Stewart says.

It's a little bit like meditation: When you get distracted, gently bring yourself back to your breathing or what you're meditating on (in this case, something other than this person). And, like meditation, you have to try not to beat yourself up if your thoughts drift somewhere you don't want them to be.

"What happens for a lot of people is they catch themselves thinking about someone and beat themselves up, like, oh I shouldn’t think about them anymore," Stewart says. "That doesn’t help, that makes it worse. But if you focus on redirecting [your thoughts], there isn’t a judgment there — it’s just like, ok we’re going to think about something else."

So whether you can't stop thinking about a new crush, an ex, someone you barely dated, or the friend who ghosted you, the next time you catch yourself obsessing, switch your thoughts over to something positive.

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Experts Share Their Most Surprising Strategies For Traveling On The Cheap

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Let's just say it: Sticking to a budget while traveling is extremely difficult. Not only are flights and lodging pricey, but activity fees, cabs, and on-the-go meals can add up quickly. And don't even get us started on stuff like exchange rates and foreign transaction fees. But just because we're watching our bank accounts doesn't mean we're cool with missing out on seeing the world.

There are plenty of small strategies you can implement while traveling that will help save dough without ruining the fun and spontaneity of being in a new place. In some cases, it might even make your experience feel more authentic. We asked three bona fide travel experts — women whose passport stamps inspire serious FOMO — to share their strategies for saving money on everything from flights to food. Read on to hear what they had to say.

"Be flexible with your travel dates," suggests Beth Whitman, a women's travel expert and the founder of WanderTours.com. "When searching for flights, if you can be flexible on the day and time you’re flying, you can search for the least expensive options and book accordingly. Most airlines and online travel agent sites give you the ability to choose flexible dates to find the best fares."

While this can be difficult if you're trying to be somewhere for a wedding or holiday, if you work at a company that allows you to sometimes work from home (or you just have extra time off you can take), consider flying to your destination a little or earlier or leaving a little later than you normally might.

"With most people trying to get home in time for work, airlines usually hike up the prices for weekend flights. Instead of traveling back on Sunday, which tends to be a peak day, try flying home Monday or Tuesday to avoid the extra costs," agrees Ariana Pierce, a travel influencer and the founder of Style & Travel Girl.

While Airbnb is a great temporary housing resource, it's a misconception that it's always going to be cheaper than a hotel. "A seemingly cheap Airbnb or homestay option may not be so cheap after additional fees are included at the time of booking," cautions Alyse, the blogger behind The Invisible Tourist. "In some cases, homestays may end up costing more than an actual hotel room, especially for only a few night’s stay. Be sure to compare accommodation prices on various websites and shop around for the best deal."

Pierce also suggests being open to staying in hostels, even if you're no longer in your early 20s. "If you are set on having your own room and bathroom, those options are also available and more than likely will be less than your average hotel room. Plus, it’s a great place to meet new people and make friends," she explains.

"Carry healthy snacks with you on the plane so you don’t have to rely on expensive airport or plane food. Consider an apple with a packet of Justin’s Almond Butter or a mix of nuts and dried fruit," Whitman says, echoing the sentiments of some flight attendants we recently spoke to. After all, why shell out for pricey airport food that's rarely tasty or wholesome when you could pinch your pennies until you reach your (hopefully delicious) destination?

This one is for all of you intrepid travelers abroad: "In some countries, restaurants have separate menus for locals and an English menu aimed at tourists. Depending on the country, this creates a problem when the pricing on the English menu has been set much higher than the local one to rip off unsuspecting visitors," says Alyse. "By learning a little of the local language beforehand, know what to order off the locals’ menu to save money avoid being scammed." Who knew?

Even the most popular destinations typically have an "off season," and if you can find out when it is (and don't mind potentially not-so-great weather), that's the time to travel there on the cheap.

"Many times, you will find that plane tickets, hotels, and activities cost less, which makes for a great vacation and — the best part — less tourists," Pierce says. "For example, Quebec City has an amazing deal at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac where they are offering Christmas in November for guests to get significant discounts this season. What I love about this is that you can save money and stay at a luxurious hotel."

Okay, so it's kind of annoying getting text alerts and promotional emails all the time, but sometimes, it's worth it — literally. "Most companies love to reward their subscribers with deals and specials as a thank you for signing up and being a loyal customer," Pierce says. "Take some time to join your favorite airline and hotel’s newsletter, and watch for daily deals that come through for various destinations."

If you really don't want all that stuff clogging up your inbox, Pierce suggests opening a special email account just for those kinds of messages. Why didn't we think of that?

While its tempting to rely on taxis and Ubers in a foreign city, they can be a real money-suck. "Walk at your destination rather than taking a taxi," Whitman suggests. "You’ll definitely save money but you’ll also see more sights at a slower pace and have more interactions with local people."

If walking really isn't an option — say you're going to or from the airport, or you're staying in a place that's off the beaten path — Alyse suggests doing a little research ahead of time to figure out how best to get around. "It’s easy to find out the most cost efficient way to get into the city centre, which is usually by train or bus. An added bonus is you’ll get a realistic glimpse into local life at your destination," she says. And it could mean the difference between shelling out $40 and saving that cash for shopping or food.

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What To Be For Halloween When You're Pregnant & Don't Have Time To DIY

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If you are a pregnant person right now who is looking for a celebrity or fictional character to emulate for Halloween, you're in luck. Between the Kardashian baby boom, and the multiple pregnant Mamma Mia! characters you could dress up as, Halloween in 2018 is a good time to have a baby bump.

But pregnant or not, chances are you do not have time to DIY an elaborate costume that you saw on Pinterest or Etsy, which is understandable. But with a little imagination, you can whip up a witty Halloween costume with clothes and accessories you probably have in your house already or can easily buy in a pinch.

Ahead are a handful of pregnant celebrities and fictional characters that you should dress up as this year.

Meghan Markle

America's duchess announced in mid-October that she is pregnant with her first baby with Prince Harry. Honestly, who doesn't want to be a real-life princess for Halloween?

What you need: Markle has the best coats in the game. Finish it off with some too-big heels and a fascinator and you'll look royal, baby.

Kate Hudson

At the beginning of October, Kate Hudson gave birth to her first daughter with Danny Fujikawa, Rani Rose Hudson Fujikawa. Got a blonde friend who needs a costume? They can go as Hudson's mom, Goldie Hawn.

What you need: A pixie cut and a head-to-toe Fabletics outfit. (Hey, you can count on being comfortable.)

Photo: Cindy Ord/Getty Images.

Ali Wong

In May, Ali Wong blessed us with yet another Netflix special featuring dozens of pregnancy-related jokes — like wearing "Asian pear underwear " and needing to "Roto-Rooter your titty " — so she's the perfect funny pregnant person to dress up as this Halloween. Oh, and don't forget to tag her in your Insta, because you might just get a re-gram.

What you need: A leopard-print dress, red cat-eye glasses, bedazzled flats, and a microphone.

Photo: Courtesy of Ken Woroner/Netflix.

Khloé Kardashian

The carefully orchestrated Kardashian pregnancy reveals this year began with Khloé, who announced her pregnancy on Instagram, then confirmed it on Ellen.

What you need: There are a few ways you can play pregnant Khloé. Maybe you buy a pair of maternity Good American jeans? Or stick to workout clothes and a blonde ponytail? Or maybe you go all-out in recreating her pregnancy announcement, with jeans and a Calvin Klein bra?

Photo: Randy Holmes/ABC/Getty Images.

Donna Sheridan (from Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again)

If your squad decided to dress as Mamma Mia! characters this Halloween, first of all, that's amazing. And if you're the mamma of the bunch, you could easily copy Donna's or Sophie's style. Bonus points if you get a friend to play auntie Christine Baranski or grandma Cher.

What you need: A knit poncho or pair of maternity overalls will do the trick.

Photo: Courtesy of Universal Studios.

Cardi B

Cardi B's pregnancy was pretty iconic from start to finish: She announced it on SNL, twerked at Coachella, graced the cover of Rolling Stone, and slayed at the Met Gala. Serve one of her many different looks on Halloween night, okurrr?

What you need: Check out Fashion Nova for lookalike pieces that would work as a costume. Since you have the bump, why not go for the all-white dress she wore on SNL?

Photo: John Parra/Telemundo/NBCU Photo Bank/Getty Images.

Kylie Jenner

As Kim Kardashian West recently put it, Kylie's pregnancy was "the best-kept secret of our generation." Although technically nobody saw Kylie pregnant until after she had given birth, chances are everyone will know who you are.

What you need: Wear an all-black outfit, "disguise glasses," and the Stormi-inspired Kylie Cosmetics lip kit if you can score it.

Photo: Kevin Mazur/MG18/Getty Images.

Chrissy Teigen

Dressing up as the mother of the cutest children on earth, Miles and Luna Legend, seems like a daunting task, but it's worth it. Since we all know how to pronounce Teigen properly now, you can go around correcting people all night if you want.

What you need: A Nintendo Switch, a copy of Cravings: Hungry For More, a taco truck, a silk robe, and a headband of the day.

Photo: David Crotty/Patrick McMullan/Getty Images.

Evelyn (from A Quiet Place)

Those who prefer dressing as spooky characters over cute ones on Halloween should consider going as Evelyn (played by Emily Blunt) from the apocalyptic thriller A Quiet Place. You don't have to be completely silent like she was in the labor scene, but you might want to shh people for effect.

What you need: A long floral maxi dress and a sweater.

Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures.

Serena Williams

Since giving birth to her daughter Olympia, Serena Williams has become an outspoken advocate for maternal healthcare. Seems only fitting, then, that you should honor her.

What you need: A fierce tennis outfit and maybe some Snapchat spectacles.

Photo: Kevin Mazur/WireImage.

Kate Middleton

Meghan Markle and the Royal Wedding may have stolen the show this summer, but just one month prior, Kate Middleton gave birth to the third royal baby.

What you need: A chic ensemble, immaculate hairdo, and a fascinator if you're into that.

Photo: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images.

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Cardi B Says Giving Birth "Broke" Her Vagina

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Childbirth may be a wonderful occurrence, but as Cardi B found, it definitely was harder than she thought it'd be.

Cardi, who gave birth to her daughter Kulture in July, made an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live on Wednesday night, where she discussed the very real pains of childbirth.

"It was totally harder," she told Kimmel. "She broke my vagina."

She continued: "Why nobody tells you about those things? Nobody told me they were gonna stitch my vagina,. People just be like, 'Oh, you know, when you give birth, it’s gonna hurt.'"

She's not the only new mom who has pointed out just how little we talk about the realities of childbirth. Nor is she the first to describe her "broken vagina," for that matter.

Your vagina can definitely change after natural childbirth — it's not unusual for the vagina to feel wider, dry, or sore, and the perineum (the skin between the vagina and the anus) may tear. Despite those pains, Cardi told Kimmel that she was definitely enjoying motherhood.

"It’s the best," she said. "It’s like, ‘Oh my gosh, I should have had you when I was a teenager. This is what I was missing my whole life? I love you.'"

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Ivanka & Tiffany Trump's Body Language Together Is VERY Revealing

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Ivanka and Tiffany Trump have a unique relationship. The half-sisters are 12 years apart (Ivanka is about to turn 37 and Tiffany just turned 25) and Tiffany was raised by Marla Maples in California after she divorced Donald Trump in 1999, while Ivanka grew up on the East Coast. They didn't grow up together.

But in a 2016 People magazine interview, Ivanka said that "we would see each other on all of the holidays and talk to each other frequently," even though they weren't always on the same coast. "She’s my little sister! I’ve been close to Tiffany her whole life, and I really love her," Ivanka said. During the 2016 presidential campaign, they had a chance to spend more time together and grow closer. Now, Tiffany is attending Georgetown Law School in D.C. and is mostly out of the spotlight, unlike her older sister, who's a senior White House advisor.

How close are they, really? Ahead, body language expert Patti Wood, author of Snap: Making the Most of First Impressions, Body Language, and Charisma, gives us an inside look at Ivanka and Tiffany's relationship.

September 2018

In this family photo, Ivanka and Tiffany mirror one another in body language, says Wood. "I like that they're doing a bit of overlap with one another. The matching foot and knee placement, and they're both doing a slight tilt with the hip to the side. The curve of the hand with the slight openness, the shoulder placement, and the big smiles with front teeth showing are similar as well."

December 2017

Wood says the sisters look like they're very close in this cutesy video. "I love how Ivanka tilts her head in to be close. They're both being playful, sexy, and feminine, and mirroring the blowing motion. They're pressing their shoulders and chests together, which is a deliberate show of closeness."

However, she noticed, Tiffany has a different demeanor in photos with her friends. "With other friends, Tiffany is more relaxed and spontaneous. It's as if she's a totally different person, and that different person is more herself. She tenses up to a certain degree around Ivanka," perhaps because she looks up to her.

November 2017

This photo, from the Thanksgiving turkey-pardoning ceremony in the White House Rose Garden, highlights Ivanka and Tiffany's personality differences, says Wood. "Ivanka is standing very upright and being very formal. Her smile is very small even though there's this huge turkey right there," she says. "She's keeping her daughter calm with her hand around her shoulder. But Tiffany looks like she's going, 'Holy heck, I'm petting a turkey! Do you want to pet the turkey?' She's looking at Ivanka to share this fun, playful, crazy thing that's happening. Her lean, her smile, her spontaneity, the lift of her face, all say, 'This is so fun, this is so wild.' But if you look at Ivanka and her daughter, they could be at a formal wedding. There's nothing in their body language that says they are responding to Tiffany or the turkey."

Photo: Xinhua/Yin Bogu/Getty Images.

November 2016

While their body language in this photo says "we're close," Wood says, "the tension is there for both of them." Their torsos are leaned away from each other, and the smiles look forced. "What's great about it is that they have their arms around each other, which you don't see in many other photos. But the pulling back and stiff smiles say they're not super-comfortable with this," she adds.

October 2016

"I really like how their upper arms and shoulders are touching intimately," Wood says of this photo from the Trump International Hotel ribbon-cutting ceremony. "Both of them have their attention in other places, but they're still sharing a moment of amusement. I see this with celebrity couples, when something funny happens and they kind of lean in together, like, 'Isn't this fun?' They're sharing a laugh naturally here; it's not posed like some of their other photos."

Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images.

May 2016

This photo, from Tiffany's college graduation, seems more staged and tense than some of the others, Wood says. "Ivanka is doing that kiss she always does, which is a very posed, puckered lip. Tiffany here, you'd think that's a real smile, but it's tense and tight. Normally, an open-mouth, front-tooth smile like that shows great joy, but there's so much tension around it. She's also looking down and away. If you're really happy, you'd be looking towards the person who's kissing you or upwards."

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17 Minimal Jewelry Pieces We’re Eyeing This Fall

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There's a time and a place for maximalist jewelry. Take this past summer, for example, when beach-y shells and beaded fruit were strung around our every limb. But there will always come the time when you'll tire of oversized earrings and multi-colored friendship bracelets and opt for something a little more minimalistic. So unless you have a beach vacation on the horizon or plan to dress up as Spencer Pratt for Halloween, the moment has come to put those kitschy pieces to rest.

First things first, minimal does not equate to being boring. All it means is that you can wear it more and get way more bang for your buck. What are you more likely to gravitate towards on the regular? $300 beaded cherry earrings, or classic gold hoops that cost the same? Exactly. So this fall, why not try a pendant necklace or simple pair of white gold studs that you can wear to any and every occasion? And if you're not sure where to start, here's 16 options, from bracelets to rings, that just so happen to ring in under $500.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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We’re YouTube Stars —& Welcome To Our $1,500 DIY-Decorated Home

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In Refinery29's Sweet Digs, we take a look inside the sometimes small, sometimes spacious homes of millennial women. In today's episode, the Sorry Girls YouTube stars welcome us to their DIY-decorated dream loft in North Toronto.

If your entire brand revolves around DIY, it makes sense that your home would, too. For Kelsey Macdermaid and Becky Wright, the team behind mega-popular YouTube channel Sorry Girls, they chose to apply those DIY touches to an industrial loft, which they filled to the brim with plants.

"We did a no-light plant challenge on our YouTube channel to see which plants would survive — before that challenge there were only faux plants in here," Macdermaid says. "Those that survived were moved around the loft."

The duo made their North Toronto loft a hub for work and home, utilizing its 1,000 square feet for separate work spaces and living spaces. But true to their style, practically everything is personalized or DIY-ed.

"Once you know that you can make something and you can make it your own and you can customize it, you kind of just can’t let that go," Macdermaid says. "Everything you do has to be customized a little bit because you know that you can make it or make it better."

Watch the video above (and click and drag the video to see a full 360-degree view) to see their $1,500 USD Toronto loft, and learn how to make a home and work space both affordable and on-trend.

Do you have some sweet digs you'd like to share? Submit yours here.

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We Bought All The Cauliflower Products At Trader Joe's — & Ranked Them

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In case you hadn't heard, cauliflower is kind of a big deal right now. Everyone from Ina Garten to Chrissy Teigen can't get enough of the trendy vegetable. Even Queer Eye 's Antoni Porowski took a break from his beloved avocados to make a cauliflower dish on the show's most recent season. But, as much as we want to keep up with the latest food trends, we're not always up for putting in the work to make a dish worthy of Ina, Chrissy, or even Antoni, especially when it involves delicately slicing up messy florets and a food processor. That's where Trader Joe's comes in. Unsurprisingly, the always on-trend grocery chain carries a number of cauliflower products that involve little to no prep.

Recently we went to three different Trader Joe's locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn and snatched up all the cauliflower products we could find. Then, we put them to the test. We wanted to see which products tasted the best, which ones were easiest to prepare, and which ones might even impress the three food gurus listed above.

Ahead, we've ranked the nine items from our least favorite to the one we'll be adding to our weekly shopping lists, so you'll know exactly which cauliflower products are worth purchasing.

9. Kung Pao Tempura Cauliflower
Vegetable tempura is supposed to have a crunch. It is after all battered and deep-fried. Unfortunately, TJ's Kung Pao Tempura Cauliflower doesn't live up to that particular tempura expectation. Perhaps because the florets come frozen, the result is disappointingly mushy. Of all the items on this list, this product also takes the longest to make, though it's still only around 20 minutes. Though the cauliflower's texture leaves something to be desired, the Kung Pao sauce it comes with offers an enjoyable sweet heat.

Serving Tip
Since the sauce is the best part, we suggest serving with rice (so you can eat the sauce over top) 0r, if you're trying to a stick with a theme, riced cauliflower.

8. Cauliflower Gnocchi
We know this is likely to be an unpopular opinion, but — perhaps because we love authentic gnocchi so much — Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi left us a little disappointed. It doesn't have the same fluffy texture as classic gnocchi, and it has that definitely cauliflower-y smell, so if you're trying to trick yourself into forgetting what the dish is, that may not happen.

Serving Suggestion
When microwaved, the frozen food turns into a gummy glob instead of a soft pillow. So, if you have a stove and a little bit more time, we suggest sautéing them. The veggie-based gnocchi can be vastly improved by any of your favorite pasta sauces and some grated parmesan cheese.

7. Organic Riced Cauliflower
This product is pretty much as basic as it sounds, but that doesn't mean it's not delicious. Plus, it's extremely easy to prepare. Unlike making riced cauliflower on your own, the frozen product doesn't require a pricey food processor that barely fits in your apartment.

Serving Tip
TJ's frozen riced cauliflower can be the base for many different dishes like jambalaya, an Asian-inspired stir fry, or any kind of curry. Or, you can add some salt, pepper, and fresh herbs and serve it as a simple side.

6. Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry
To prepare this product, all you have to do is heat it in a pan with two tablespoons of olive oil or butter for. We chose butter. With its tamari sauce, sesame oil, peas, red bell peppers, corn, and onions, you honestly can't tell this is made with cauliflower and not rice.

Serving Tip
Add whatever protein speaks to you and make this stir fry into a meal. It would be extra-tasty with a fried egg on top and a few squirts of Sriracha.

5. Cauliflower Pizza Crust
Listen, if you put marinara and melted cheese on almost anything, it's going to taste good, and Trader Joe's Cauliflower Pizza Crust is no exception. Because it's made from a mixture of cauliflower or corn flour, the crust has a bit of a grainy texture, but that wasn't a turnoff. If you're a pizza purist, however, this might be a tough sell for you, and we get that. It's just not quite the same as classic pizza crust.

Serving Tip
Aside from using it at the base for your favorite pizza toppings, the cauliflower crust can be baked — put it straight on the middle oven rack to make it extra crispy — and cut into triangles for snacking and dipping.

4. Mashed Cauliflower
This trendy mashed potato substitute is ultra-creamy, which makes it the perfect side dish to bring to Friendsgiving — whether or not you reveal it's from the Trader Joe's freezer section, we'll leave to you.

Serving Tip
If you want the mashed cauliflower to taste less like a healthy vegetable and more like a classic comfort food, stir in a few pats of butter and add salt and pepper to taste. You could even get fancy and mix in some roasted garlic.

3. Organic Rainbow Cauliflower
If you're looking at this rainbow cauliflower and thinking so what? it's just cauliflower, you're going to be pleasantly surprised. We certainly were. Not only are the multicolored florets pretty, but they also taste so incredibly fresh despite having come from the freezer aisle. They don't bare that slightly unpleasant smell that many veggies like cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts sometimes have. The florets are almost sweet and after just a few minutes in the microwave, they're perfectly tender.

Serving Tips
They're beautiful enough to be served in a simple white or glass bowl, and they don't call for any added seasoning. However, they could be a canvas for a olive oil, flaky sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. But, even left alone, they're a eye-pleasing side for any meal.

2. Cauliflower Tabbouleh
This grain-free twist on the traditional Mediterranean salad is straight-up delicious. The salad is tart and fresh and the veggies packed inside maintain a slight crunch. The dish's packaging makes it a nice option for a grab-and-go lunch or snack.

Serving Tip
While the plastic container the Tabbouleh comes in makes it good for on-the-go snacking, it doesn't exactly look sophisticated. If you're hoping to serve up the salad at, say, a luncheon, spoon it into a decorative bowl and garnish with a few sprigs of fresh parsley.

1. Riced Cauliflower Bowl
Joining the riced cauliflower base in this dish are marinated chickpeas, sweet potatoes, baked tofu, roasted onions, and a tahini sauce. In other words, it has all the makings of a comforting Mediterranean-inspired meal. The dish brings a little heat with red chili, garlic, and paprika and the chickpeas add a pleasant crunch.

Serving Tips
Because it's microwavable and comes in its own compact bowl, this is an ideal office lunch. If you're bound to your desk for the day, don't worry, you can still have a not-so-sad desk lunch. The bowl food is so good though, it could also be transferred to a nicer-looking dish for a dinner in.

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10 Beauty Products That Will Bring Out Your Dark Side On Halloween

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There are only two weeks to go until Halloween, and your group chat is buzzing every three seconds. All the same costume ideas keep popping up on your lock screen: Betty Cooper, Lara Jean (yes, you're still talking about that movie), and Kate Middleton are the few you catch before another suggestion pushes the last deeper into the thread.

For the record, those are all great , commendable costumes. Being the "good girl" is always fun: She's royal, she's sweet, she even dates Jughead Jones. But we've decided to go in another direction this time around. We're skipping the pink lip gloss, school-girl ponytails, and cubic-zirconia tiara and trading it in for something a little... darker. Hey, even Betty has a dark side, and frankly, we wouldn't mind dressing up as her — black wig and all — for a night.

This means we're in the market for moody eyeshadows, eyeliners, and lots of black lipsticks this year. If you are, too — whether your idea of Halloween plans entails channeling your inner Nancy Downs or skipping the party altogether to stay home and listen to Joy Division — we've got every product necessary to make your October 31st a total success. Our go-to goth makeup, ahead.

While everyone else will be reaching for the shimmering peach shades, we're headed straight for this blueish-black lid tint that's perfectly iridescent for smoky eye beginners.



Jillian Dempsey Lid Tint ™, $28, available at Jillian Dempsey

Calling this multipurpose cream dramatic is definitely an understatement. Inspired by the shadow of an eclipse, this black pigment is key for adding a dark, glossy intensity to eyes, lips, and cheeks.



Rituel De Fille Inner Glow Crème Pigment: Eclipse, $29, available at Rituel De Fille

A liquid lipstick that lasts through several rounds of themed punch (spooned out of a cauldron, naturally) that's under $10 and named Roseblood almost seems too good to be true. Luckily, it's not.



L'Oreal Paris L'Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-matte Liquid Lip, $7.49, available at Target

Last year, Rituel de Fille collaborated with singer-songwriter Chelsea Wolfe to create this lipstick that pays homage to the '90s goth-punk scene. It's just a spooky bonus that if you blot it onto your lips, it kind of looks like stained blood.



Rituel De Fille Enchanted Lip Sheer: Swarm, $24, available at Rituel De Fille

Diving deep into goth beauty always requires one very important product: black lipstick. After all, it does go with everything.



Marc Jacobs Beauty Collector’s Edition Le Marc Lip Crème Lipstick, $30, available at Sephora

Don't want to ditch all your glitter this year? Try a liquid lipstick infused with some sparkle for a glitzy take on the trend.



Black Up No Transfer Double Effect Liquid Lipcolor, $27.5, available at Sephora

This deep-purple lip color probably wouldn't be Downs' first choice (she prefers something matte and slightly terrifying), but it's one we keep in our bags year round.



Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire Deliciously Shiny Lipstick, $32, available at Sephora

Ready to color your waterline in black like it's 1996? Try Milk Makeup's new gel formula, which goes on smoothly without turning your eyes red and lasts longer than Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness.



Milk Makeup Long Wear Gel Eyeliner, $22, available at Sephora

Kajal liners like Shiseido's latest make transforming into Lydia Deetz as easy as summoning Beetlejuice from the underworld.



Shiseido Kajal InkArtist Shadow, Liner, Brow, $25, available at Shiseido

Sure, this smoky palette is an investment, but if you're prepared to lean into the moody vibe there's no better way than with this jewel-toned set.



Pat McGrath Mothership I Eyeshadow Palette - Subliminal, $125, available at Sephora

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Berets Are On A Whole New Level This Time Around

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One of the things we can't help but look forward to most about fall style is all the outfit add-ons we can't be bothered with during summer: scarves, gloves, thin coats, thick coats, and, of course, hats. While there's something liberating about the less-is-more approach to getting dressed when it's 80 degrees outside, it's the little outfit-finishers that can really take an outfit to the next level.

This season, berets have taken center stage as the must-have fall-to-winter accessory — just take a look at how popular they've become over the past year. The best part, though, is that berets aren't just limited to classic black. While that certainly is the most versatile, now that they've been trending for a minute, tons of brands are putting their own twist on the beret, from unexpected materials and embellishments to (you guessed it!) lots of logos. So not only will you be able to find a beret for whatever look you choose, but you can also keep updating your hat game well through February.

Ahead, find 18 berets to get your collection going.

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Surprising Health Signals Your Body May Be Sending You Right Now

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It might seem like fertility is an easy thing. All you need is a sperm and an egg, right? Certainly, your typical sex ed makes it seem like it's extremely easy to get pregnant. But there's a lot more that goes into it than you might think — especially when you're talking about ovulation.

So what's actually happening when you're ovulating? "A follicle inside an ovary is releasing a microscopic egg so the fallopian tubes can catch it," explains Carolyn Alexander, MD of the Southern California Reproductive Center. This happens roughly midway through your menstrual cycle. From there, the egg will eventually make its way through the fallopian tube to meet up with a sperm in your uterus. If that doesn't happen, your body will just reabsorb the egg, you'll have a period, and the whole cycle will start again.

But that's just the short version of the story. "There’s actually a lot of mechanisms going on in order for the egg to safely exit and be caught," she says. During all of these steps, there is, of course, the surge of hormones that affect a lot of your body's processes (not just your menstrual cycle). There are also specific enzymes released that are responsible for opening just the rim of the follicle to allow the egg to escape. Finally, we can't forget the granulosa cells, which form a sort of shell for the egg and help prevent miscarriage down the line.

With all of those complex factors at play, it's no surprise that so many of us are kind of clueless when it comes to ovulation. This can set us up for some frustration when we start to think about fertility. "The window of opportunity for fertilization is actually quite slim when you think about a whole month of timing intercourse," Dr. Alexander says. "Once the egg has been ovulated, it has about 24 to 36 hours to see sperm." That means that the few days right before and after you ovulate are when you're most likely to conceive.

Knowing your cycle can make your life so much easier — whether you're trying to get pregnant or actively avoiding it. In addition to tracking your periods (with or without the help a friendly app), there are some common (if not universal) signs that you're ovulating:

1. The "hallmark" sign that you're about to ovulate is that your vaginal discharge will become thinner, clearer, and stickier, Dr. Alexander says. This change in consistency, compared to the thicker stuff beforehand, makes it easier for sperm to embark on their long journey to the egg.

2. Your basal temperature (a.k.a. your temperature when you first wake up, which you can track with a thermometer and more apps) will also fluctuate throughout your cycle. But there's a temperature spike right after you've ovulated. So, if you're trying to get pregnant, your prime sex-having time is right before that, which means you may need to track it for a few months.

3. One of the more unusual signs is a change in libido. Specifically, Dr. Alexander says it's common for her patients (and many women) to report an increased desire for sex around the time of ovulation. That's all thanks to climbing estrogen levels combined with the surge in testosterone that results in ovulation.

4. Ovulation may also cause a particular kind of cramping called mittelshmerz (literally "middle pain"). Not everyone gets it, but those who do tend to feel a dull, aching pain on one side of their lower stomach. The side that's painful corresponds to the ovary that's releasing an egg that month. Luckily, the pain doesn't usually last for more than a day and may be as short as a few minutes. (If it's lasting or it's really uncomfortable, you can take acetaminophen to ease it.)

5. You may also notice some spotting around the time of ovulation.

Sometimes this spotting is actually implantation bleeding. This happens when an egg has been fertilized, and "the embryo [is] trying to burrow into the uterus," Dr. Alexander explains. It usually occurs around the time you'd expect to have a period, but it can happen as soon as five days after ovulation, Dr. Alexander says.

Otherwise, any mid-cycle bleeding should be investigated by your doctor. Sometimes this is the result of normal hormonal changes, but it can often be a sign of a fibroid (a benign uterine growth). So your doctor will want to know what's going on.

6. Some women also have PMS-like symptoms when they ovulate, including breast tenderness and bloating. "But that can be clouded by actual PMS because estrogen has spiked," says Dr. Alexander. So it's hard to tell whether those are coming from ovulation or the hormone surge right before your period.

However, not everyone experiences all of these signals. First of all, if you're on hormonal birth control, you are not ovulating at all (this is how the pill and similar methods prevent pregnancy). For those who are not using a hormonal method or are trying to get pregnant: Some of these signs, such as the changes in discharge and temperature, are more universal than others.

Additionally, women with other issues affecting their reproductive systems may have unique challenges when predicting ovulation and fertility. For instance, the environment around the egg in the follicle may be altered in women with endometriosis. And patients with PCOS often ovulate later in their cycles than others (around day 16-20 compared to day 13-15), Dr. Alexander explains. Still, if you think something might be up with ovulation (or any stage of your cycle) it's worth checking in with your gyno.

Correction: This story has been updated with clarifications about basal temperature, pain relief during ovulation, and implantation bleeding.

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Everlane Commits To Being Plastic-Free By 2021

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Our favorite fashion brands aren't just going fur-free — now, going plastic-free is a growing trend among retailers. On Thursday, Everlane, the direct-to-consumer company bringing radical transparency in pricing, ethical manufacturing, and social responsibility to fashion and retail, doubled-down on its commitment to sustainability. On Thursday, Everlane announced that by 2021, it will eliminate all virgin plastic from its supply chain.

"Plastic is destroying our planet and there is only one solution — stop creating virgin plastic and renew what’s already here," Michael Preysman, Everlane's founder and CEO, said in a press release. "Companies have to take the lead and any company that hasn't made this commitment is actively choosing to not improve our environment." Presyman believes companies have a responsibility to work towards a waste-free future, especially considering the world is currently, as The Guardian put it in June, "on the edge of a global plastic calamity."

From this point on, all new Everlane products containing synthetic materials will be made with recycled versions; anything made with virgin synthetic fibers will also be replaced with a more eco-friendly equivalent. Eventually, all Everlane apparel, footwear, accessories, and packaging will be virgin plastic-free, as will its all of its stores and its San Francisco-based headquarters.

We'll get our first look at the first plastic-free items on October 24 when Everlane releases its 'ReNew collection,' which features men's and women's parkas, puffers, and fleece sweaters, priced from $55 to $198. Each piece is made from three million recycled plastic bottles, and, within five years, Everlane promises to have recycled 100 million plastic bottles.

"We try not to use polyester and nylon where we don’t have to because, in general, it is still petroleum-based, and we’d rather use natural materials," Preysman told Vogue of the retailer's commitment. "With outerwear, you need polyester, and we had done these [pieces] before, so it felt like the right way to revamp and rebuild the product." Presyman wants Everlane's customers to adopt this mindset, but he also wants it to inspire the fashion industry as a whole. "It is our hope that other people follow suit towards a path of using renewed materials."

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