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17 Cute Halloween Costumes Your Pet Will Hate

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In case you were wondering whether your best friend really, really loves you, this is the time of year to deploy the harmless litmus test known as dressing up your pet. Halloween is a little over a week away and for anyone cohabiting with an adored animal, the temptation of getting them into the holiday spirit with plush, ridiculous get-ups is palpable. We would never condone forcing an animal to do something it didn't want to do (cat's included), but for those lovable mushes who are game in the name of some peacocking around the neighborhood, snuggles, and a photo-op with their humans, now's the time strike with the most ludicrous costumes you can find online.

Read on to discover and shop all the well-intentioned horror and betrayal Halloween 2018 can be for your most-loved four-legged friend.

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.

Pineapple costume today, trash bin contents on the floor tomorrow.



Target Pineapple Pet Costume, $12.99, available at Target

A fitting look for your true king of the castle.



Pet Krewe Lion Mane Wig, $14.95, available at Walmart

Cone of shame, straight up.



Bootique Dirty Puptini Dog Costume, $6.99, available at Petco

Pizza cat is not here for eye contact.



Trendy Halloween Pizza Slice Pet Costume, $13.2, available at Trendy Halloween

Hand-sewn from hand-woven serape blankets straight from Guadalajara, Mexico with proceeds donated to Baja California Spay Neuter Foundation. The face says no, but the heart says, !



Baja Ponchos Authentic Mexican Blanket Dog Poncho, $19.99, available at Etsy

The true inspiration behind the peach emoji.



Target Aerobics Pet Costume, $12.99, available at Target

Hello darkness, my old friend...



Rubie's Sweet Sunflower Halloween Costume, $11.89, available at Walmart

Acting like they don't already moonlight as Bunnicula come October.



Toffee Crafts Vampire cape pet costume for small animals, $15, available at Etsy

Always be yourself, unless you can be a unicorn. Then be glad you got away with only a headpiece this season.



Pet Krewe Unicorn Dog Costume and Cat Costume, $16.95, available at Amazon

For pups who feel most dignified in formalwear.



Dog Fashion Living Tuxedo With Rose Bandana, $12, available at Dog Fashion

There better be a bacon and peanut butter reward for this.



Costume Kingdom Elvis Cape Pet Halloween Costume, $21.95, available at Costume Kingdom

Glam never looked so good.



Pet Costume Center Rainbow Bob Wig , $6.13, available at Pet Costume Center

As seen on Shark Tank...and in your dog's nightmares.



Pandaloon Walking Teddy Bear with Arms, $34.99, available at Amazon

If you say Beetlejuice three times I'll probably go hide under the couch.



Spirit Halloween Beetlejuice Pet Costume , $34.99, available at Spirit Halloween

I hope you like my outfit for your last day on Earth, hooman.



Spirit Halloween Aristocrat Cat Costume, $19.99, available at Spirit Halloween

For pups who prefer to hang loose during Halloween.



Casual Canine Hawaiian Breeze Camp Shirt Dog, $17.99, available at Amazon

"Why are you like this?"



Animal Planet Raptor Dog Costume , $19.99, available at Healthy Pets

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Photographic Proof That John Krasinski Is The New Glow-Up King

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Sorry to break it to longtime fans of The Office, but John Krasinski is not Jim Halpert, no matter how much we wish he was. He doesn't live in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He isn't married to a woman named Pam. And, no, he doesn't sell paper. But despite our love for the character that made him famous, Krasinski's IRL story is actually a lot more interesting.

Most Krasinski fans would say he had a record year. He directed, co-wrote, and acted (alongside his wife Emily Blunt) in A Quiet Place. He also landed a TV show, pulled more pranks on Jimmy Kimmel, and announced the sequel to his blockbuster hit. However, we're not here to celebrate any of that — no matter how impressive it is. We're here to acknowledge the glow-up we never saw coming.

Yes, most people would call Jonah Hill the glow-up M.V.P. of the year, but there's someone else to consider the next time you're walking down memory lane: Krasinski. Ten years ago he was simply the lanky 20-something who was a borderline townie on TV, now he's a movie star with a really great beard. You can't deny it: he just might have the best beauty evolution in Hollywood.

Keep clicking for the photo evidence.

2004

The Office hadn't officially aired yet, but Krasinski had already filmed a good portion of the first season. At this point, he and Jim are one (flipped ends included).

Photo: Justin Lubin/NBCU Photo Bank/Getty Images.

2005

For most of us, Krasinski was Halpert by the time everyone thought Pam was in denial and in love with Jim. Please note his haircut had to look like that for the character.

Photo: Michael Buckner/Getty Images.

2006

Someone found some pomade and the air-dry method.

Photo: Hal Horowitz/WireImage.

2007

Krasinski in a newscaster cut isn't our favorite, but at least he's starting to experiment.

Photo: Michael Loccisano/FilmMagic.

2008

Even though the strongest reaction to Krasinski's beard doesn't come for several more years, this marks the first time the actor tested out the look.

Photo: Jason Kempin/WireImage.

2009

If you ever wanted to know what a small town paper salesman looks like when nominated for an Emmy award, here's the best example. This look — slicked back with medium hold — becomes Krasinkski's signature.

Photo: Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.

2009

Stubble, casual flow, and tons of volume: Krasinski officially has — some — swag by 2009.

Photo: John Shearer/WireImage.

2010

Men wear makeup, too! Case in point: a bit of bronzer did wonders for Krasinski's complexion at the premiere for his rom-com Something Borrowed. (Or at least he looks like he was groomed by a Hollywood pro here.)

Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images.

2011

Now it's really clear Krasinski found a groomer with the best advice: less is more (at least, in the case of hair gel).

Photo: Brad Barket/Getty Images.

2012

The higher Krasinski's hair got, the more interested fans and subgroups on Reddit became.

Photo: Jeff Vespa/WireImage.

2013

Even Krasinski had to joke about the introduction to his new look.

Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images.

2014

A year later, Krasinski is officially on the beard bandwagon and sporting a slight fade at the Critics' Choice Movie Awards.

Photo: Kevin Mazur/WireImage.

2015

Do you think he takes biotin to get this facial hair so shiny?

Photo: Aaron Davidson/WireImage.

2016

Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan might not have growth like this, but Krasinski (and his character in AQP) does.

Photo: Todd Williamson/Getty Images.

2018

The glow-up... is complete.

Photo: Dave Benett/Getty Images.

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What Donald & Ivanka Trump's Body Language Reveals About Their Relationship

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A lot has been written about the relationship between Ivanka Trump and her father. Her siblings Donald Jr., Eric, and Tiffany all openly admitted that she's Donald Trump's "favorite child " in a 2015 interview with Barbara Walters. But the fact that she's a senior advisor in his White House adds a layer of complexity to their dynamic, especially given that they reportedly don't always agree.

"She feels a certain level of power. So does he. They each have their own internal feeling about the power they have with the other person," body language expert Patti Wood, author of Snap: Making the Most of First Impressions, Body Language, and Charisma, told Refinery29. "Meanwhile, we see her desire to connect with him in many of the photos of them."

Ahead, Wood breaks down the complicated relationship between the president and Ivanka based on their body language.

Context: Trump thanks Ivanka before addressing the Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons annual meeting at the White House in October.

"Her placement of her arm on his seems to be out of comfort, but it's high, which indicates she believes she has a certain power in the relationship," says Wood.

Photo: NICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images.

Context: Trump and Ivanka are participating in an Iowa roundtable about job development with Gov. Kim Reynolds in July. Here, he makes a joke about the Perkins Career and Technical Education Act, after she had just finished proudly announcing it: "Maybe I'll veto it!"

Wood says that on her Facebook page, she showed a closeup of Ivanka's face after he says that. "Just before this, she showed sadness, then you see this nonverbal 'withholding cue.' If you look at her eyes, you can see she is withholding anger." But right after that, she bounces back and they do a playful "gun battle" with their fingers. "It was a putdown. He was asserting power over her," says Wood. "She recovers and plays it off."

Context: In this cabinet meeting in July, Ivanka made a speech about her new jobs initiative. After she finished her remarks, the president said, "Wow. So if that were Ivanka ‘Smith,’ the press would say that was totally brilliant. As Ivanka Trump they’ll say, ‘Oh, she was okay,’" adding, "That was really great, unbelievable."

"What nonverbally I find interesting is that instead of clapping here, he's got his arms crossed," Wood says, comparing it to Trump's body language when he recently met with Kanye West in the Oval Office, because he had his arms crossed throughout most of it, too. "He doesn't get everyone applauding. The arms crossing is a closing off an opening to connect with anybody who's there. I've seen him doing it before when another person is the center of attention, like with Kanye. And when a powerful person is doing that closing off, it's telling the rest of the group that it's acceptable to do that to the speaker."

Context: Ivanka hugs her father after he finishes delivering his acceptance speech after winning the presidential election in November 2016.

"This one is interesting to me," says Wood. "Look how straight up and down he is. His head is not fully forward. Compare that to her energy, to how far forward her head and body are. He's standing in his strength and power, and he's not giving her a lot of close affection with that arm around her. He's not about being a dad in this moment, but she's all about being a daughter. The fingers around his upper arm are going for affection, but she's also showing she feels she has some strength in the relationship."

Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty Images.

Context: Donald and Ivanka visit his Scottish golf course in July 2015.

"She's looking at him with such adoration and love and happiness," says Wood. "I think that is really marked, really obvious. There's no artifice in it. The smile is unusually big for her and it's not plastered on. It's genuine."

As far as her father, says Wood, "His hand is clasping at her neck. That's slightly unusual, just because it's so high and so gripping. He's holding her where the carotid artery is, a very vulnerable part of the body. The higher the placement of the hand, the more control. This is an interesting combination of control and protection. That combo of placement and firmness is interesting in an adult child and a parent; I don't see it that much."

Photo: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images.

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The 4 Outerwear Pieces To Get You Through Winter

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Once your dormant apartment heater starts hissing again, you know that winter is officially en route. And with the cold-weather season comes cozy, oversized scarves; the ready-for-whatever boots; and — of course — the bulky coats that take up half our tiny closets. Feeling more practical than popular, winter outwear is a tough code to crack: Too often, it feels like a jacket or coat either offers only warmth or a wow factor, rarely ever both.

Well, we're on a mission to make sure that is not the case for your wardrobe this time around. Never ones to leave you high and dry (er, cold and confused?), we've rounded up the only four outerwear styles you need to have on your radar this season, all from H&M 's latest winter collection. From sleek, long silhouettes to double-breasted button-ups, these pieces marry style and survival for any and all of your outdoor activities. Click ahead to see for yourself how winter wear can be anything but an afterthought.

The Cool-Girl Puffer

A puffer jacket manages to do the impossible: possess that undeniable cool factor while also providing the ultimate in insulation. Go for a cropped, plum pick instead of a standard black style, and embrace a monochrome vibe with a matching turtleneck and trousers.

The Wool-Blend Coat

Perfect for your everyday commute or weekend museum hopping, a knee-grazing, gray coat with clean lines and a smart collar is the definition of chic. Pair it with a striped button-up shirt (half-tucked for an unfussy feel) and pinstriped pants for a look you can truly take anywhere.

The Classic Camel Coat

Every woman needs a camel coat in her life, and this sophisticated, double-breasted option pretty much proves it. Pair it with a black-and-white printed blouse, classic blue jeans, and a skinny braided belt for the perfect transitional look.

The Practical Parka

Detachable faux-fur trim and all, a lightly padded parka is a staple for any type of winter weather. Wear the zip-up, snap-fasten piece with fresh corduroy pants and doubled-up tops for that extra bit of warmth without ever feeling heavy.

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A Curly Girl's Guide To Hair Oils

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When it comes to curly hair, oils are a major key. In fact, almost every single complaint you have about your curls can be resolved with the right oil: from frizz to lack of shine, brittle hair, and even split ends. Curly hair tends to hold less hydration than straight hair. This lack of hydration causes frizz, making hair look dull (read: no shine). A lack of hydration also causes hair to feel brittle, which leads to more split ends. All of this stems from your curl pattern, not a natural inclination that you have for drier hair. The oils produced on your scalp — a.k.a. sebum — are what hydrate hair, adding shine, decreasing frizz, and giving it strength.

For those with straight hair, those oils slip down the shaft rather easily. Brushes help pull oils from the scalp down, and distributes them throughout the hair. Since it's difficult for oils to slide down a spiral or coil, this is why curly hair textures are drier than straight versions. But you don't need a brush or even your natural oils to get a shiny, frizz-free style. All you need is the right hair oil. "They're a wonderful way to moisturize the hair," says Sarah Stevens, a curly-hair vlogger for WaterLily716. "And, they are totally natural. Most pure oils are easy to remove from the hair and they don't contain synthetic ingredients."

There are two main types of oils: sealing and moisturizing. Sealing oils (think jojoba) seal in moisture, meaning that you'll need to apply water or conditioner to your hair beforehand for them to really work. Moisturizing oils (we're talking coconut, olive, or avocado) are heavier than sealing oils and can be used alone to moisturize the hair. Sealing and moisturizing oils are meant to be used at different times — one after a shower, for instance, and the other during a deep-conditioning treatment — and each applied in different ways. You can use an oil to hydrate your scalp, encourage hair growth via massaging, reduce split ends, add in your conditioner, apply a heat treatment (with a heavier oil) — the options go on.

In general, though, most people with curly hair use multiple types of oils to perfect their style and to address their individual needs. Ahead, we've identified some of the most common natural oils, plus tips on how to use them. Read on to find the one for you.

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.

Olive Oil
You're probably more accustomed to using olive oil in the kitchen, but this moisturizing oil is also a great beauty aid. The added slippage that works so well in cooking also aids in detangling, moisturizing, and adding shine to hair.

"I use olive oil to detangle my hair and for hot oil treatments," says natural-hair blogger Sugar of WhoIsSugar. "When I'm running low on conditioner, I'll add some olive oil to it, too," she adds.

Olivers & Co. Everyday Olive Oil, $25, available at Olivers & Co.

Palmer's Conditioning Spray Oil, $5.95, available at Palmer's.

Kiehl's Strengthening and Hydrating Hair Oil-in-Cream, $25, available at Kiehl's.

Jojoba Oil
When it comes to replicating your sebum to get all-natural shine, Stevens' go-to is jojoba. "I absolutely love jojoba oil," says Sugar. "I use it to seal in the moisture in my hair, to add shine, and to reduce frizz. Also, jojoba oil doesn't clog the pores on my scalp because it is similar to sebum, the scalp's natural oil."

Stevens is a fan of the LOC method (liquid-oil-cream), and says jojoba is the best oil for this popular hair method. "I spray my hair with a water conditioner mixture. Then I apply a few drops of jojoba oil to either side of my hair, and seal everything by applying a small amount of gel or cream," she says.

The best way to use this sealing oil, adds Sugar, is to apply it to freshly washed and conditioned hair. "I apply it to soaking wet hair or on top of a leave-in conditioner. This is how I seal in the moisture," she says. "I tend to focus more of the oil on the ends of my hair because they are the oldest and more prone to breakage and split ends. I also pair jojoba oil with my gel when I do a wash-and-go. The jojoba oil adds shine and it reduces the crunch. When I take out my two strand twists (for twist outs), I use jojoba oil to reduce the frizz and to add shine."

For those with thinner curls, Stevens says jojoba is your best option. "If you have thin hair that is easily weighed down, try to stay away from heavier oils like coconut and olive oil when you are styling your hair," she says. "Try jojoba oil or grapeseed oil instead."

Desert Essence Organics 100% Pure Jojoba Oil, $13, available at Walgreens.

Coconut Oil
While jojoba oil gets rave reviews from several curly and natural hair bloggers, coconut oil comes in a very close second for its ability to reduce dandruff and help heal a dry scalp.

"Coconut oil is a little harder to work with because it's often a solid at room temperature, but it's worth it," says Stevens. "I use it in deep treatments for the hair and on my scalp as well. It's one of the few oils with small enough molecules that will penetrate the hair shaft."

One downside of coconut oil is that it's solid when at room temperature, so you have to be a bit more careful with it than you would using a lighter oil like jojoba or rose oil. "Coconut oil is great, but during the colder months, it will solidify in your hair and turn your hair white," says Sugar. "So, only use a little bit!"

"If my scalp is feeling dry or flaky, I will apply coconut oil to my scalp for about 30 minutes before I take a shower or the night before," says Stevens. "I might also do a deep treatment on my hair with oil. I will take a regular conditioner and mix in my favorite oils along with some honey, then apply the treatment to wet hair."

Trader Joe's Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, $5.99, available at Trader Joe's stores.

Moringa Oil

Trying to make your curls or coils even longer? Moringa contains vitamin B, known for its ability to aid in the growth of hair. It's a key ingredient in this fast-absorbing formula, but that's not the only reason we love this particular pick: True to its name, the oil disappears instantly as it's worked through hair, so you never get that too-shiny wet look that's a telltale sign of overdoing it. But make no mistake — it might feel light on the hair, and won't weigh even fine strands down, but when it comes to hydration, it's a heavy-hitter.

Verb Ghost Oil, $14, available at Sephora.

True Moringa Face Hair Body Oil, $36, available at True Moringa.

Argan Oil

If you're blowing your curls straight, this stuff gives you blow salon-worthy results. "It works best as a treatment to add moisture and shine — and to help prevent frizz," hairstylist Ryan Richman says. It can also be used after you style: "Simply rub a few drops in the palm of your hand and comb through hair with your fingers for a healthy, shiny finish."

Morocconoil Moroccanoil Treatment, $34, available at Sephora.

Crème of Nature Argan Oil Treatment, $9.99, available at Target.

Castor Oil

If growth is your goal, then add castor oil to your routine. "It has been shown to improve circulation, which helps hair growth," Ron Robinson, cosmetic chemist and CEO of BeautyStat, previously told Refinery29. The oil has a thick consistency and is perfect if your scalp (or any part of your body) is dry. No wonder it has been used for centuries in Jamaica as an all-purpose beauty ingredient on hair and skin.



Tropic Isle Living Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil , $14.95, available at Amazon

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The Mistakes You're Making With Your Acne Scars — & How To Fix 'Em

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Illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Oh acne, the confidence-sucking mammoth of skin issues. It plagues the best of us. And, just when we finally think it's gone, a new problem — the dreaded acne scar — rears its ugly little head (or just lingers around so we never forget). They tend to turn up after that pesky pimple has finally subsided and can hang around for months before fading. Some even require more advanced treatment for relief.

So, we turned to board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Ted Lain and Dr. Julia Tzu to give us the inside scoop on acne scars. "Acne scarring develops when recurrent inflammation from deeper cystic lesions damages the collagen in your skin," explains Dr. Tzu. "Normal healthy tissue is then replaced by thinned-out scar tissue, which can manifest itself as depressions along the contour of the skin."

Not all acne scars are created equal. In fact, there are three specific kinds: Pitted or "ice pick" scars (these are deep, but small in diameter), boxcar scars (these tend to be rectangular), and rolling scars (these resemble hills and valleys). The longevity of an acne scar can also vary depending on your skin type. "For people with darker skin tones like Indian, African American, and Asian people, the skin produces more pigment," says Dr. Lain. "When their skin gets inflamed, the natural response of their skin is to produce more pigment."

Age also plays a factor. "When the diminishing collagen and subcutaneous fat levels of our body can no longer help provide the structural support it used to in our earlier years, acne scars can become more pronounced," Dr. Tzu adds. There is some good news, however. Many people believe that the red marks (scientifically known as post-inflammatory redness) are acne scars when they really aren't. Dr. Lain is quick to point out that "if the acne bump is gone but the persistent redness stayed, it may not be an acne scar, it's just redness and it will get better," he says.

Another thing some people may not realize is that certain things may be exacerbating the issue. With the help of Dr. Lain and Dr. Tzu, we've compiled a list of things you need to stop doing, stat, in addition to tips for preventing acne scars in the future.

Mistake: Picking At Your Pimples

We all know that picking your pimples is a huge no-no, but who hasn't done it at some point or another? Well, no more, and for real this time. Both Dr. Tzu and Dr. Lain urge patients to avoid it at all costs. "Picking leads to a secondary infection or more inflammation, both of which can lead to scarring," Dr. Lain warns. "It's so important that people keep their hands off their faces and get treatment for the acne instead of trying to pop their pimples."

Illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Mistake: Falling Into An Acne Rut

The best thing you can do to keep scarring at bay is to effectively treat any existing acne. "If you're dealing with mild to moderate acne which isn't associated with hormones, using an over-the-counter system will work for over 50% of people," says Dr. Lain. "Acne systems that use benzoyl peroxide or an alpha hydroxy acid tend to work well. But, if those don't work or stop working, you need to see a dermatologist."

A good skin care system is a must when combatting acne. "Poor skin care regimens may bring out more acne and cause future scarring and irritation," says Dr. Tzu. "Using harsh bar soaps to cleanse the face, using irritating facial washes, washing too frequently, or using comedogenic (pore clogging) products to hydrate the skin [can make things worse, too]."

Moral of the story? It's important to pivot when something just isn't working – which might include seeing a dermatologist.



SLMD Acne Spot Treatment, $25, available at SLMD Skincare

Mistake: You Aren't Wearing SPF

"Sun exposure of any type can make scarring worse," says Dr. Lain. "A lot of women in particular rely on the sunscreen in their moisturizer or makeup rather than using a dedicated sunscreen on their face." If you haven't already, he suggests adding an SPF into your skin care routine ASAP. "I like Elta MD's UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46. It has a very high SPF with other ingredients that help reduce redness," he says. "I also like Cetaphil's DermaControl Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30, which is great for teenagers." And for the melanin-blessed crew, Bolden's SPF 30 Brightening Moisturizer is formulated just for you.



Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (1.7 oz.), $33, available at DermStore

Mistake: Overdoing It At Home

Turns out your at-home recipes might be making your skin worse. "I've seen people apply lemon juice to their scars, only to develop a reaction to the lemon juice," Dr. Tzu says. Do-it-yourself masks and treatments can do wonders for your skin, but hopeful DIYers can go overboard causing their skin to become irritated and inflamed.

Dr. Lain warns that the most common at-home treatment that he has seen go wrong are chemical peels. "Due to a lack of knowledge and experience, I have seen many of these 'treatments' result in chemical burns," he says. "Despite their best efforts to help reduce acne, scarring, or pigmentation, people then have an additional issue to deal with that is just as difficult to improve."



Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Glow Moisturizer, $65, available at Ulta Beauty

So What Should You Do?

Apart from keeping your hands off your face, wearing a dedicated SPF, and introducing a good acne-fighting system into your skincare routine, there are a few products and procedures that can help make your acne scars less visible.

Over-the-counter scar fading creams tend to work on hyper-pigmented scars that aren't too deep. Dr. Lain normally prescribes a fading cream like Retin-A, in combination with hydroquinone, kojic acid, or licorice, to those looking to lighten scars. "Retinoids can help build collagen under the cells and build them up [to fill in scars]," says Dr. Lain. But, both Dr. Lain and Dr. Tzu make sure to point out that topical treatments don't always provide the miraculous results most patients are looking for.

This is where treatments like lasers, chemical peels, or subcision (which involves the use of a needle to sweep under the scar and break the "tethers" of the scar to the underlying tissue) come into play. These procedures can be costly, but patients are usually happy with the results.

But, if lasers aren't up your alley, there are some less-intensive treatments available. Micro-needling, for example, is a technique that builds collagen underneath the scar and costs much less than the traditional laser, however, multiple sessions are normally needed to get scars to become more shallow.

Corrective makeup can also help keep acne scars out of sight and out of mind. If you just want to cover up a few minor scars, "green-tinted makeup can conceal some of the red," says Dr. Tzu. Our favorite redness-reducing concealer? Urban Decay's Correcting Fluid in Green. The new Bye Bye Redness Correcting Cream from It Cosmetics is shockingly effective at diminishing redness, too, even without a green tint.

Acne scarring can happen to anyone. Fortunately, there are even more non-invasive treatments that can help reduce their appearance — you just need to figure out which method is right for you. All skin is different and no treatment is one-size-fits-all, but hopefully, with a little more information, we'll all be one step closer to clear, smooth skin.



Shani Darden Shani Darden Texture Reform™ Gentle Resurfacing Serum, $95, available at Shani Darden

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This New Jewelry Brand Just Dropped A Pastel Collection Of Lab-Grown Diamonds — & We're Obsessed

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Diamonds are — as we know — a girl's best friend. Often gifts for those major life milestones (graduations, engagements, and anniversaries alike), the shiny desirables are no doubt some of our most prized possessions. But what if they didn't have to feel so high-stake? (Considering the sheer number of tiny charms and slightly loose rings we've lost over the years...yikes.) That's why Lightbox, a new line of less-expensive, lab-grown (yes, lab-grown!) diamonds, is seriously catching our eye.

The innovative jewelry line utilizes scientific research to create lab-grown diamonds that feel completely accessible. These are the kind of studs and pendants we can break out on any occasion, from fancy to just-for-fun. Not to mention, the pastel hues add that little something extra we always seek out in our accessories. Check out our curated top selects from the candy-colored collection ahead, and start making room in your jewelry box. Because, hey — you can never have too many BFFs, right?

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Why This Old-School Acne Treatment Deserves Another Chance

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If you had acne as a teenager, you probably remember stockpiling foaming face washes, topical gels, and all manner of other products that promised to keep your breakouts under control. The star ingredient was always tea tree. You know the one — and you definitely know that earthy, slightly medicinal smell, which lingered long after application.

A lucky few of us managed to leave our zits back in high school, but recent research actually suggests a noticeable increase in adult female acne, meaning we're still reaching for the spot treatments to this day. Somewhere along the line, however, we've upgraded our ingredients list and ditched a humble dab of tea tree in favor of exfoliating acids, like lactic, glycolic, and salicylic, as well as retinoids, the vitamin A derivatives that have the ability to speed up cell turnover and unclog pores.

All the above ingredients are proven to keep breakouts, and the dark spots that follow, at bay. But why have we forgotten tea tree, especially when the experts argue it could be just as effective?

During a recent panel, dermatologist Anjali Mahto made the case for the unassuming ingredient as part of a consistent skin-care routine. "Tea tree oil is derived from the plant melaleuca alternifolia," Dr. Mahto said. "It has been found in some studies to work better than placebo treatments alone in reducing the number and severity of acne lesions, and can be a useful agent due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity," she says. That means tea tree has the ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and bring down redness — which Nauseen Qureshi, a biochemist and founder of skin-care brand Elequra, takes seriously.

"The tea tree's leaves are either ground into a powdered extract or pressed to create an oil," Qureshi said. "Tea tree includes a terpene compound within it called terpinen-4-ol, but the compound is more present and available in the oil form." That terpene, she said, has been shown in some studies to reduce the growth and presence of some types of bacteria, including P. acnes, which aggravates the skin by creating an immune response that leads to breakouts. "Tea tree can help combat the growth of this bacteria to help reduce the occurrence of acne."

According to the experts, tea tree oil formulated at a concentration of 5% is most beneficial for treating acne; it's likely most effective as a targeted spot treatment, concentrated to one specific area. That said, there are numerous best-selling cleansers, moisturizers, and facial mists infused with the ingredient. Medik8's Beta Cleanse, for example, makes for the perfect nighttime wash, thanks to the addition of salicylic acid (which penetrates pores, dislodging sebum and dead skin cells), niacinamide (which regulates oil production and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores) and, of course, tea tree oil to bust bacteria and reduce inflammation. Elequra's Boosting pH Mist harnesses tea tree to soothe and reduce redness when spritzed liberally onto clean, dry skin, and Benton's Tea Tree Cleansing Water is consistently sold out for very good reason.

But just because tea tree oil is derived from a natural source doesn't mean it works for every skin type. According to Dr. Mahto, it may cause sensitivity and irritation just like other essential oils, so if you're thinking of incorporating it into your skin-care routine, do it as if you were using retinoids or acids for the first time — slowly and with caution. And if your skin reacts, give it a break and seek help from an experienced dermatologist. Say it with us: Just because it's supposedly Meghan Markle's favorite zit-zapper doesn't necessarily mean it'll be yours, too.

This story was originally published on Refinery29 UK.

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A Week In North Carolina On A $51,593 Salary

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Welcome toMoney Diaries , where we're tackling what might be the last taboo facing modern working women: money. We're asking millennials how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we're tracking every last dollar.

We're going on book tour for our new book, Money Diaries: Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About Your Finances... and Everyone Else's. Next stop: Chicago on Wednesday, October 24. More details here!

Calling all entrepreneurs: We want to hear from you! If you’re a freelancer or self-employed, we’d love to feature your Money Diary. Submit here.

Today: an occupational therapist working in healthcare and the public school system who makes $51,593 per year and spends some of her money this week on a cheeseburger from Wendy's.

Occupation: Occupational Therapist
Industry: Healthcare/Public School System
Age: 24
Location: North Carolina
Salary: $51,593 for my 10-month full-time job, plus $50/hour for my PRN job
Paycheck Amount: $3,000 monthly from full-time job, and $400-$700 2x/month from my PRN job

Monthly Expenses
Rent: $1,300 for the two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment I live in with my boyfriend, N. This includes laundry, water/sewer, cable/wifi, valet trash, and a pool. N. and I split bills proportionate to our incomes. I'm able to contribute more and cover a majority of the bills, while N. covers his car payment and our furniture credit card. (We had a little too much fun during Memorial Day sales.) We split all gas, groceries, shopping, and entertainment expenses.
Student Loan Payment: $330 for private loans and $0 for federal, as I'm on an income-based repayment plan and was in school last year
Electric: $100-$150
Car Payment: $335
Car Insurance: $225
Cell Phones: $150
Health Insurance: $0 (I'm still on my parent's medical but I pay all copays, prescriptions, etc.)
Renters Insurance: $10
Lincare: $15-$50 (I have sleep apnea and use a CPAP.)
Apple Music: $10
Hulu: $7.99 (Our parents use our account.)
Netflix: $0 (We use N.'s parents' account.)
Amazon Prime: $0 (We use my parents' account.)
Savings: ~$500-$1,000, depending on my PRN income

Day One

8 a.m. — I wake up to N. leaving for a short shift at work, and our two dogs (we recently rescued two pugs, who are the CUTEST!) snuggled next to me. One has taken over my pillow and the other is nestled under the covers. I pet them for a few minutes and then roll out of bed to take them for a morning walk.

11 a.m. — I'm easing into my day off by watching reruns of reality TV and snuggling the pugs. I scroll through social media and an advertisement for the Carolina Ballet pops up on my screen. I've been debating buying tickets to see Swan Lake in May. (I danced ballet throughout my childhood, and Swan Lake is the one ballet still left on my bucket list!) I decide to go for it and buy two tickets for N. and me! $97.61

1 p.m. — N. gets home from work and we decide to get our weekly grocery shopping out of the way. We stop by Wendy's first to use some coupons we got in the mail and avoid the pitfalls of shopping hungry. We both get cheeseburger meals and chicken tenders to share. I pay. $12.97

1:30 p.m. — We stop at Trader Joe's to buy our favorite green curry sauce and also pick up apples, oranges, and sugar cookies. Then we pick up the rest of our supplies at Harris Teeter: berries, lettuce, bell peppers, onion, sandwich thins, ground beef, steak, chicken, shredded cheese, milk, juice, frozen pizza, chips, cereal, a taco kit, dryer sheets, toilet paper, dish soap, Coke, and deli meat. N. and I split the total at the register. $61.42

3 p.m. — We watch football (more like N. watches and I play on my phone) with the pugs and take them for a walk at halftime. We've been looking forward to our first Halloween with them and are talking about possible pug costumes. We decide to go shopping tomorrow after work!

7:30 p.m. — I set the rice cooker to cook brown rice (best invention ever!) and then quickly cook chicken breasts. N. and I eat green curry bowls and end the evening with our respective leisure pursuits. For N., it's more football (and yelling at the TV), while I tune in for new episodes of my favorite reality TV shows. I gather all my supplies for work tomorrow morning and call it a night around 10 p.m.

Daily Total: $172

Day Two

6:30 a.m. — I wake up to the puggos licking my face since they know the alarm means it's walking time! I roll out of bed, attach their leashes, and take them for a quick walk. They love it.

7 a.m. — I start the Keurig to fill my travel mug as I hop in the shower. Then, I get dressed and apply face lotion and makeup (eyeliner, mascara, eyebrow pencil, and sometimes eyeshadow). Lastly, I pack my lunch of leftover green curry from last night's dinner, an apple, and a granola bar.

7:40 a.m. — I put the dogs back in bed with N. (since he usually works a later morning/early afternoon shift) and head to my designated school for the day. I'm responsible for three schools all together, but my schedule is organized nicely to limit my going back and forth each day.

8 a.m. — I arrive at the school and settle into my office to plan my day before the kiddos arrive. As an occupational therapist in a school system, I treat kids during the school day and fit in department meetings, treatment planning, and SO MUCH PAPERWORK. I spend some time planning my treatment sessions for the day, printing worksheets, and gathering supplies.

10:30 a.m. — After a few treatment sessions, I quickly clean my office and set up for my next kiddo. As a pediatric OT, my sessions are centered around achieving goals to promote the students' access to their education and participation in meaningful daily tasks and routines. In the school setting, this typically involves increasing fine motor coordination, handwriting and scissor skills, activities of daily living (self-feeding, putting on/taking off jackets and clothing), and sensory strategies. I quickly review the goals of my next student and head off to facilitate self-feeding skills and strategies.

12:45 p.m. — I complete my sessions for the morning and head off to the district office for an afternoon of department meetings. Then I eat my lunch once I get to the office and complete my documentation from my morning sessions. I signed up to check out supplies and gather weighted vests, body socks, pencil grips, adapted scissors, a sensory brush, and adapted lined paper. But I forgot to bring an extra bag to carry everything, so I lug everything around in my messenger bag. Oof.

4:30 p.m. — Finally done for the day, so I run home to pick up N. so we can go to Spirit Halloween for pug Halloween costumes. We are very excited and talk the whole way about how adorable they will look.

5 p.m. — Spirit is complete craziness — we are warned of a unsavory customer speaking to children, and the police are called to intervene. N. and I don't want to get caught in the middle of it all, and the store doesn't carry animal costumes, so we leave. I remember seeing some costumes recently at PetSmart, so we drive back across town to the store. On the way, I drive by my three schools and proudly show N. where I work now. He "oohs" and "ahhs" and we discover a new lake/park near our house that we didn't know existed. We plan to come back and explore it with the pugs.

6 p.m. — We buy the cutest dinosaur and bumblebee costumes from PetSmart. (N. buys one and I buy the other.) But when we get home, we realize we bought one in the wrong size, so we decide to walk from our apartment back to the pet store with the pugs so they can stretch their legs. (We love living so close to everything.) We pick out an adorable skunk costume in place of the dinosaur costume and spend the next hour taking pictures and crying about how cute they are. $18.22

8 p.m. — We forgot to take meat out of the freezer for dinner, so we settle on frozen pizza. When we lived in upstate NY last year, we loved making homemade pizza with dough from Wegmans, but the dough down here doesn't taste as good. N. rents a movie ( The First Purge — it's terrible) and we snuggle until I go to bed around 10 p.m.

Daily Total: $18.22

Day Three

5:45 a.m. — I have two schools to see today and the first one starts early at 7:15! I roll out of bed and complete my morning routine quickly. I almost forget to make coffee in my Keurig, so I wait for my travel mug to fill up before heading out. I'm going to need it today.

6:45 a.m. — I arrive at my first school and quickly send a text to N. to tell him I didn't take the dogs out this morning, so that he remembers to when he wakes up. I log into my email and check my schedule for this school. Then I review goals and head to a classroom.

7:30 a.m. — I spend an hour in one of my special education classrooms working with various students and addressing teacher concerns.

8:45 a.m. — I head over to my second school for the day, which is luckily right down the road and doesn't start until 9:15! I go over my schedule and plan a few treatment ideas to be used with several students. One way occupational therapists address various goals is to plan one main activity, and then upgrade or downgrade it when students have different needs. This way, we can compare progress, save time planning, and utilize various approaches at the drop of a hat.

9:30 a.m. — But of course, when I take the time to plan an activity, my students exhibit needs for other tasks and I end up adapting on the fly. It is important to be flexible in the therapy world, as nothing ever goes perfectly to plan. I save my planned activity for another day and provide my students with different tasks to complete. They love my tennis ball fine motor coordination activity to increase strength and dexterity in their hands as a warm up for handwriting. The tennis ball has a large slit in the side that looks like a mouth. Students use their hands to squeeze the ball to open the mouth and grasp/release small pegs to increase their hand strength, visual motor skills, and hand eye coordination. We affectionately name the tennis ball “Mr. Fuzz.”

12 p.m. — I am starving, and since we didn't have leftovers last night, I eat a simple turkey, cheddar, lettuce, and mustard sandwich with an apple and granola bar. I take an hour to catch up on notes and review goals for my afternoon kiddos.

3:30 p.m. — I finish my sessions and notes for day, and then head home to relax. N. has a short late shift tonight, so I decide to surprise him and bring home donuts from our favorite local shop. As I pull into our complex, I see him driving away and sadly miss him by a few minutes. I call him to let him know he a surprise waiting for him later, and he is grateful. $8.61

5 p.m. — I FaceTime my parents to have our weekly catch up, and it's so nice to see their faces. I haven't lived near them in years, but since my first year in college we've done our best to FaceTime weekly. Usually, they ask about life and I complain about adulting responsibilities. We always end with close-ups of the pugs and their cats and obsess over how cute they all are.

9 p.m. — N. is home and we enjoy a late dinner of steak tacos with brown rice, lettuce, cheese, salsa, and taco shells. I usually save some meat and rice to have a taco salad for lunch the next day, but we're hungry and there are no leftovers. Oh well! I sit up to digest for a little and then head to bed.

Daily Total: $8.61

Day Four

7 a.m. — Alarm is blaring after I snooze for an HOUR. Crap. I leap out of bed, complete my morning routine, and send N. a text since I definitely don't have time to take out the puggos.

8 a.m. — I get to my school at the worst time and get stuck in the carpool line. Ugh. Luckily a teacher recognizes me and lets me cut off the line to find a parking spot. I make it to my office in time to remember my first kiddo is absent this week and I don't have a therapy session until 9. This is definitely not my morning.

11:30 a.m. — I spend time reviewing a continuing education course that is coming up and decide to go. I need the credits for my licensure renewal and it'll be a great way to learn more about the pediatric world. Plus, my employer is trying to locate funding, so I may be reimbursed. I recently switched from geriatric to pediatric and am really enjoying the change. I was working in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) and the summer low census was causing me to have very low paychecks and consequently high stress. While the salary in the public school system is overall less, I am much happier (which was a huge deciding factor). I still get my geriatric fix on the weekends. (I usually pick up eight hours on Saturdays at a per diem rate, which is great money and easy work.) $60

12 p.m. — I eat my lunch (another turkey sandwich, apple, and granola bar) and steal a few pieces of candy from my “prize drawer.” Yes, a prize drawer…but if a small trinket or Starburst gets my kiddos to follow my directions and work on handwriting, then by all means I will buy their love.

3:30 p.m. — School's out but I have a parent/teacher meeting to attend this afternoon. The parent is so sweet, and I enjoy talking with her and collaborating on new approaches to assist in meeting her son's goals. I leave school today feeling fulfilled and professional in my newly acquired role.

6 p.m. — N. and I are hungry and I'm fighting the hump day blues. I refuse to cook, and N. happily suggests Chick-fil-A. I give in and convince him to pick it up if I pay. He obliges and picks up a few chicken sandwiches and nuggets to share. $27.83

9 p.m. — We take the puggos for a night walk and talk about our weeks. N. is hoping for good things to come from an upcoming interview, and I give him reassurance that he is the best! It would be a significant pay raise and in the field he got his degree in. I tell him funny stories from work and we enjoy the time together.

Daily Total: $87.83

Day Five

7:30 a.m. — I get to school early enough today to avoid the carpool line thankfully, and enjoy easing into the day with my coffee and emails. The speech pathologist stops by to ask if I'm attending a meeting this morning and I ask a few questions to ensure my documentation is correct. I finish my coffee and head to the meeting.

9:30 a.m. — Meeting is over and I have a few hours before another meeting at a different school. I prepare for a few treatments sessions and touch base with some teachers regarding any sensory or adaptive equipment concerns they may have. In the pediatric OT world, my services are either direct (treatment sessions with scheduled minutes and goals) or consultative-based (open-ended where I work with teachers to ensure there are no barriers to achieving academic work).

12:30 p.m. — I head to my other school and stop to get gas on the way. A full tank will usually last me a week and a half. Upon arrival, I prepare for my next meeting and discuss my thoughts on exiting a student. She agrees and we complete the necessary paperwork before the meeting starts. I quickly eat another turkey sandwich with an apple and a granola bar and fill up my water bottle. $26.78

3 p.m. — All done with my day, and it's time to head home. N. texted me earlier to say he bought us tickets to see Venom! We decide to eat a quick meal out before the movie. I get a chicken sandwich and N. gets chicken strips and a cup of chili. I pay for both of us. $27.55

7 p.m. — Movie was great! We love to discuss our favorite and not-so-favorite parts afterwards and give a rating out of 10. We both give it an 8/10 and head home to see the pugs. Then I call it an early night and head to bed around 9:30 p.m.

Daily Total: $54.33

Day Six

6:30 a.m. — Alarm goes off and I get out of bed in a timely manner today. N. has an early day as well, so I take the pugs for a quick walk and feed them breakfast while he catches a few extra zzz's. Then it's off to the school!

10 a.m. — A group treatment session goes awry. I pull out a fun cause and effect activity to calm things down. Whew! I consider it a success and transition them back to class.

1 p.m. — The PTA is providing free lunch for staff. Win! I get a salad, ham sandwich, chips, and a cookie. Free food is the best food.

3 p.m. — School is out for the weekend and so am I! I go home and take the pugs out for a walk around the complex. We recently moved to North Carolina and I still don't understand how it's 80+ degrees in October, but I'm looking forward to an easy winter.

5 p.m. — N. is home and we decide to have a scary movie night! I throw together shrimp scampi while N. selects Friday the 13th and Halloween from his movie shelves. We snuggle the pugs and watch the movies, laughing at how far special effects have come.

8 p.m. — My per diem job manager texts me that she has a little over seven hours for me tomorrow. Score! After the movies are over, N. and I call it a night, since we both have to work in the morning.

Daily Total: $0

Day Seven

7:45 a.m. — Alarm goes off and I quickly shower and throw on scrubs. N. agreed to take the dogs out this morning since he has a later shift, so I run out the door with my coffee in hand.

8:30 a.m. — My friend is having a housewarming party tonight, so I stop by Whole Foods to grab barbecue potato chips, various corn chips, guacamole, salsa, ranch, and carrots to bring later. Plus a small frozen meal to tide me over until the party. $46.03

9 a.m. — I check my schedule and see I have four patients and two evaluations today. My coworker who I haven't seen in forever is also working today, so we take a few minutes to catch up.

10:30 a.m. — I emerge dripping in sweat from a patient's room after a full session. In the geriatric setting, I focus on bathing, dressing, toileting, grooming, self-feeding, and toilet transfers. We assist patients in these tasks by providing safety techniques, energy conservations techniques, and adaptive equipment to promote a patient's independence with the tasks, along with physically assisting them with aspects they are unable to complete.

12 p.m. — My next patient is able to complete her tasks with supervision for safety, but I want to increase her upper body strength and endurance for these tasks, so we have our session in the therapy gym.

1 p.m. — I quickly eat my frozen meal while writing treatment notes. I have to maintain 85% productivity, which means 85% of my clocked-in time must be spent in direct treatment of patients. Today, that leaves me with around an hour of extra time to complete any and all documentation, communicate with nurses and other staff, find my patients in the building and transport them to the gym, and pee.

3:30 p.m. — I complete all treatments and evaluations, and then it's time to write up my evaluations. There's a lot more paperwork associated with this role than they prepare you for in school, but sometimes I don't mind this aspect, since it gives me a chance to collect my thoughts at the end of the day.

4:15 p.m. — I'm off for the day, but my coworker and I both forget to buy our other friend a housewarming gift. She still has 30 minutes left to her day, so I offer to buy a gift from both of us and meet her at the party. She agrees to reimburse me later.

4:30 p.m. — After getting lost (I think I know where I'm going…and then I end up on the other side of town), I find a cute little shop and buy a fireplace-scented soy candle and fall flower arrangement ($40.21). I text my coworker and she sends me $20 for her half. $20.21

5:45 p.m. — I finally get to our friend's new house with my snacks and gift. We eat burgers, hot dogs, and snacks, and enjoy a tour of the house. I have a beer and relax with friends as we catch up after a couple weeks apart.

9:30 p.m. — N. had to work late tonight and couldn't make it to the party. I had promised to bring him home a burger and snacks, but all the food is gone. I pick up food for him on my way home, and he is very grateful. $6.79

11:30 p.m. — After a long day and night, N. and I stay up to digest and relax from our days. He plays video games and I snuggle the pugs before heading to bed. I get to sleep in tomorrow!

Daily Total: $73.03

Money Diaries are meant to reflect individual women's experiences and do not necessarily reflect Refinery29's point of view. Refinery29 in no way encourages illegal activity or harmful behavior.

The first step to getting your financial life in order is tracking what you spend — to try on your own, check out our guide to managing your money every day. For more money diaries, click here.

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How Can Gigi Hadid Be Sued For Posting A Photo Of Herself?

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Gigi Hadid has had it. The model is leading a crusade against the paparazzi, and with good reason. But that crusade has come at a cost. She is now being sued over an Instagram post of...herself.

According to People, Hadid’s feud began when she reposted a now-deleted paparazzi image of herself on her Instagram account. It was a simple, “Hi! Look at me doing my thing!” photo that celebs are wont to post. Hadid later claimed she found the uncredited photo on Twitter. The next day, she pulled the shot down and posted a text-only image, informing her 43.8 million followers that she was being “legally pursued” for posting the copyrighted image.

“The photo is by a Paparazzi & is of me on the street outside an event last week,” Hadid explains. “I posed/smiled for the photo because I understand that this is part of my job,” she wrote, adding that she understands that such events are expected to bring out the press, and empathizes with paparazzi photographers who need to earn a living.

But Hadid is clearly upset at being sued for posting the photo, writing that “for someone to take a situation where I was trying to be open, and sue me for a photo I FOUND ON TWITTER (with no photographer’s name on the image), for a photo he has already been paid for my whatever outlet put it online (!!!), is absurd.”

Unfortunately, if the image is copyrighted by the photographer, paparazzi or not, it subject to the same laws that protect artists from having their work stolen. Celebs and regular folks: it’s not safe to post photos you didn’t take yourself on your social media accounts. Yes, even if they are of you.

Hadid also goes on to draw a distinction between public events and her privacy. “Most circumstances [in which I am photographed] are not this way, i.e. leaving my apartment, or anytime. I feel that my privacy is being unreasonably intruded upon, doing everyday things feel harder to face.” She goes on to describe the fear she faces from the photographers, writing that they “drive dangerously close and extremely recklessly; they put the general public in danger in pursuit of a photo.”

It’s no secret that celebs can’t stand the paps. Their methods verge on criminal stalking, dangerous car chases, and deeply invasive photographs of private moments. Addressing the paps directly, Hadid wrote, “I understand that this is how you make your living, and I respect that this is something I must accept with my job. But there is a line.” You can read her full statement below.

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Selma Blair Reveals MS Diagnosis After Years Of Not Being “Taken Seriously”

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Selma Blair has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, the actress revealed in an Instagram post on Saturday. Blair, 46, wrote that she received her official diagnosis in August, though she believes she has had the disease for much longer and was “never taken seriously” by medical professionals.

“I have probably had this incurable disease for 15 years at least. And I am relieved to at least know. And share,” the actress wrote.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that affects the central nervous system, causing interruptions in the transmission of nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord, and rest of the body, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. This can cause tremors, dizziness, fatigue, and numbness or weakness in the limbs. Though MS affects over 2.3 million people worldwide, it affects two to three times as many women as men.

It is also commonly misdiagnosed. According to a 2017 Health Union survey of over 5,000 Americans living with MS, 42% of respondents said they were initially diagnosed with another condition including depression, migraine, and fibromyalgia.

Blair thanked the producers, actors, and crew on her upcoming Netflix series Another Life for providing a supportive workplace environment as she navigates her life with MS, particularly costume designer Allisa Swanson. Blair wrote that Swanson “carefully gets my legs in my pants, pulls my tops over my head, buttons my coats and offers her shoulder to steady myself.”

Blair was frank about the symptoms she has experienced as a result of MS.

“I am disabled. I fall sometimes. I drop things,” Blair wrote. “My memory is foggy. And my left side is asking for directions from a broken gps. But we are doing it. And I laugh and I don’t know exactly what I will do precisely but I will do my best.”

MS does not yet have a cure, but treatments such as physical therapy and medication can slow the progression of the disease.

“I have MS and I am ok,” Blair wrote. “But if you see me, dropping crap all over the street, feel free to help me pick it up. It takes a whole day for me alone. Thank you and may we all know good days amongst the challenges.”

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A Week In New York City On A Joint $540,000 Salary

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Welcome toMoney Diaries , where we're tackling what might be the last taboo facing modern working women: money. We're asking millennials how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we're tracking every last dollar.

We're going on book tour for our new book, Money Diaries: Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About Your Finances... and Everyone Else's. Next stop: Chicago on Wednesday, October 24. More details here!

Calling all entrepreneurs: We want to hear from you! If you’re a freelancer or self-employed, we’d love to feature your Money Diary. Submit here.

Today: a law associate who makes $380,000 per year ($540,000 when combined with her husband) and spends some of her money this week on chips and guac.

Occupation: Associate
Industry: Law
Age: 30
Location: New York, NY
My Salary: $380,000
My Husband's Salary: $160,000
My Paycheck Amount (Biweekly): $6,000
My Husband's Paycheck Amount (2x/month): $3,250

Monthly Expenses
Rent: $4,600 (not including one-and-a-half free months that we received when we first moved in)
Loans: $0 (I had a full merit-based scholarship to college and law school, and we bought our car outright.)
Health Insurance: $450 per paycheck
FSA: $50
MetroCard: $121
Daycare: $2,700
Garage: $190
401(k): $100 (I recently cut back my contribution amount. I was previously contributing to it aggressively, and have about $42,000 saved.)
Cable & Internet: $ 160
Electric & Gas: $100
Cell Phones: $0 (Both my husband and I are on my parents' family plan.)
Netflix: $0 (We use my parents' account.)
Savings: I move about $10,000 from our checking account into a savings account that yields 1.8% annually. We have $380,000 in savings that we've earned over the last three years. I don't plan on staying in this job forever, so we try to save towards our future as much as possible.

Additional Expenses
Car Insurance: $600 twice a year

Day One

7 a.m. — Wake up to snuggles from my cuddly nine-month-old, T. My husband, G., honorably takes T. to play and lets mommy catch some more zzzs. I sleep for about an hour more, and then find my boys in the living room and make us breakfast. Coffee in the French press, sourdough toast with peanut butter for G., and toast with almond butter for me. I share a white peach I received from my farm share this week with T., and also give him a baby yogurt and puffs. (We paid $380 for 13 farm share shipments to be delivered every other week from June through October. Each box includes fruits, veggies, and a dozen eggs.)

9:30 a.m. — After cleaning up breakfast and making sweet potato puree for T. and butternut squash soup (more farm share haul), I pack T. up in the jogging stroller for a four-mile run across the 59th Street Bridge. The incline is hard! When I get home, I feed the baby some sweet potatoes — he loves them. Then G. brings him out for a run so I can pump in peace.

12 p.m. — Lunchtime. Butternut squash soup for me, and I make a veggie burger and a roasted beet salad for G. I mix pumped breast milk with whole grain rice cereal for T., and he also gets more sweet potato. We attempt to get T. to nap, but we fail because he's more interested in attempting to throw himself off the bed. I catch him by his ankles and dangle him upside down, and he thinks it's hilarious.

1 p.m. — We give up on the nap and head out for an adventure! We take the subway (using our unlimited monthly MetroCards), and stop at a bar for a drink to make braving the crowds of tourists in midtown more bearable. I get a spiced cider and G. gets a beer ($19). Then we stroll through Central Park since it's the most beautiful fall day! T. tries to grab leaves on the trees as we walk through the park. It's perfect. $19

4 p.m. — We make our way over to the Upper East Side, where my husband used to live in his bachelor days. We have a lot of memories over here. We stop in The Penrose for another drink – a pumpkin beer for me (#basic) and another beer for G. ($20). Then we head to one of our favorite restaurants, Beyoglu, for an early dinner. The food is great and cheap, and the people-watching is unbeatable (so much plastic surgery on the UES!). We share fried calamari, G. gets a chicken and rice dish, and I get a mezze platter with various vegetarian spreads ($74). I feed T. little bits of rice and bread from the restaurant, as well as baby food I brought from home (zucchini and peas). $94

8 p.m. — We take the subway back home. It's time to get T. ready for bed. We have a huge bathtub, and most nights T. and I take a bath together. He loves to play in the water. Then I breastfeed him in bed, and he plays around and falls asleep. I hang with G. in the living room while he watches tennis, and head to bed a little after 9.

Daily Total: $113

Day Two

7 a.m. — I'm not sure how many times the baby was up in the night. He sleeps in our bed with us. I know you're not supposed to do this, but I'm doing what I have to do to get by. He slept pretty well in the crib while I was on maternity leave, but when I first went back to work, he was waking up EVERY HOUR. My job is very demanding, and rather than walking into his nursery every hour and not getting any sleep, I brought him into bed with us. I can't stand letting him cry. When we wake up, I feed him oatmeal with breast milk. Then G. takes him for a run while I do a 20-minute yoga video on YouTube and go on a cleaning rampage. I make the bed, fold the laundry, vacuum the apartment, and scrub down both bathrooms. Cleaning is therapeutic to me.

9:30 a.m. — My Whole Foods groceries arrive via Amazon Prime Now. I ordered kombucha, soy milk, Siggi's yogurt, organic strawberries, a bunch of bananas, grapefruit, lemon, avocado, whole wheat orecchiette, cherry tomatoes, basil, tomato paste, sourdough bread, mint chocolate chip ice cream, a dark chocolate bar, and all-natural coffee creamer ($62.07). Convenient, but the basil is missing. I'll complain and get a refund. For breakfast, G. and I eat the delicious fresh sourdough bread with nut butters and fruit on top. I also make scrambled eggs. The baby eats eggs and cut up fruit for second breaky. He's just learning to eat "finger foods" with his little hands, and it's just so precious. We have French press coffee with Whole Foods creamer. $62.07

10:30 a.m. — My work friend sends me a picture of this super cute Halloween onesie that says "I vant to suck your boob" and says that T. needs it. I order a similar one from Amazon for my cousin's baby as a surprise ($13) and also a big cast iron griddle for myself to make pancakes ($29). $42

12 p.m. — We take the subway into the city again to meet my former boss, C., who has become one of my greatest friends, for brunch at Rosemary's. We share truffle focaccia and a trio of delicious vegetable appetizers including chickpeas, cabbages, and eggplant. I have a kale salad as my main with seared yellow fin, and G. gets pasta. I have a glass of red wine, too. C. orders a panini that he doesn't like, so we take it home for dinner ($112). Then we stroll around the village with T. in the Babybjorn. I get ice cream from Van Leeuwen's — a scoop of blackberry Danish and a scoop of vanilla on a fresh waffle cone. I share with the baby and G. ($9). It starts to mist, so we head home on the subway. $121

5 p.m. — We're not ready for the fun to end, so we open up a bottle of Wolffer red wine that my in-laws sent for my birthday. Then we walk around our apartment building with T. — there's an indoor courtyard with a garden. We talk to some neighbors, including a couple that also has a nine-month old son. And another neighbor tells me that the herbs in the garden are for anyone's use! Turns out I don't need that basil after all.

7 p.m. — I make G. leftovers for dinner — the panini, butternut squash soup, and beet salad. The baby and I have avocado toast. Afterwards, I clean up and then it's bath time and bedtime for T.

7:30 p.m. — I work on a research assignment for work for about two hours, and fall asleep by 9:30.

Daily Total: $225.07

Day Three

6:45 a.m. — Wake up and pack T.'s lunch for daycare (two bottles of milk and three jars of puree). I do yoga for about 20 minutes in the hall outside T.'s room while he plays with his toys and G. showers. Then we switch — G. watches T. while I shower. We eat breakfast together as a family — more sourdough toast with nut butter and bananas and strawberries. Nespresso with soy milk for me and creamer for G. T. gets oatmeal with mashed banana. Then we all head out. I can't believe it every time we make it out the door. T. and I walk G. to the subway because he needs to get to work by 9 a.m. I can get in later, so I bring T. to daycare. It's only a five or 10 minute walk from home, but we usually leave early to walk through the park together. I also call my mother and grandmother during this time to catch up.

9 a.m. — I hang out with T. for a few minutes at "school" (we call daycare school because it sounds nicer) and then head into work. He is always SO EXCITED to see his teachers and friends and toys at school, so I don't feel too sad leaving him. He cries when I leave, but I get picture updates throughout the day and can see that he's having a lot of fun. I get to work about 10 minutes later and dive into research.

10:30 a.m. — I head up to the "mother's room" at my office for a 20-minute pumping session. There's a computer and phone so I can continue my work pretty seamlessly. I talk to my best coworker friend, and we decide to order Sweetgreen for lunch. I get a modified custom salad with arugula, basil, chickpeas, heirloom tomatoes, roasted peppers, cucumbers, burrata, and pesto vinaigrette to pick up at 12:15. After we pick up our salads, I eat at my desk while working and drink a kombucha that I brought from home. $12.70

2:30 p.m. — Pump time again. I keep working, but definitely need a second coffee on this Monday. My coworker and I head to Starbucks, and I use my "reward" to get a free medium soy latte. It hits the spot on this cool fall day. Finally!

5 p.m. — I was very productive today. I pack up my bags (full of milk!) and head to daycare. G. has a work dinner tonight, so he won't be home until late. Picking T. up is the highlight of my day. The smile he gives me when he first sees me is so precious. We walk home, I clean his bottles and food jars, and then I make avocado toast for me and give him sweet potatoes for dinner. After we eat, I put him in the Babybjorn and we take a walk around the block. I see the bartender at our corner spot outside and say hello. T. is mesmerized by the trees and sky and tries to grab them. The sun is setting, there's a cool breeze, and I feel so peaceful spending this time with my baby. I love him so much.

7 p.m. — Bath time, then boob time, then bedtime for T. After he falls asleep, I work for about two hours. I'm up until about 10:30 when G. gets home from his work thing. I couldn't fall asleep without him, so I'm up later than I'd like to be.

Daily Total: $12.70

Day Four

6:15 a.m. — None of us slept great last night. Oh well. I do weight exercises and yoga in the baby's room while he plays on the floor. G. has an early meeting, so he leaves for work earlier than usual. I make the baby a scrambled egg for breakfast, and I have strawberry rhubarb Siggi's yogurt with cut up strawberries, Kind granola, and a scoop of almond butter. Aldi's has the best almond butter out there. I make a Nespresso pod with soy milk.

8:30 a.m. — It's pouring out, so I strap T. into the Babybjorn and pack up our bags (including bottles, food, and pumping parts) and we walk half a mile to school. It's SO HEAVY that I wonder if I'll make it. I try to sing "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" to teach T. about rain, but I'm out of breath and can barely breathe!

9:30 a.m. — Drop off went well, and now I'm at my office. I make an iced latte with almond milk in the kitchen. I'm working on a document review that's a little boring and frustrating because we keep changing the approach that we're taking and having to redo work. Argh.

11:30 a.m. — It's pouring rain, and I have a $10 promo code from Grubhub, so I treat myself to Blue Ribbon Sushi for lunch, delivered. YOLO. $23

5 p.m. — I leave work to pick up the baby. He's been boycotting his bottles at daycare this week (which I'm a little worried about), so I breastfeed him right when we get home. I order Indian takeout for dinner from this amazing place and get spicy lentils, sag paneer, spicy cauliflower, and garlic chili naan for G. and me to share ($48). I'm happy to have G. rejoin us for dinner since we had breakfast and dinner last night apart. After dinner, we head down to the basement game room and play ping pong with T. strapped in the Babybjorn. I put the paddle in his hand and we play against Daddy. He laughs and loves it and cries when we leave. $48

7:30 — After T. goes to bed, G. and I watch Ozark in bed. We're so into this show. We fall asleep around 9:30.

Daily Total: $71

Day Five

6 a.m. — T. was up a lot in the night and has a stuffy nose. I think the poor little guy is sick. G. takes him to play and lets me sleep in a little longer. (G. doesn't usually wake up when T. does, so he slept fine last night, but I'm exhausted!)

7:17 a.m. — Why did they let me sleep this long?! I wake up, throw our sheets in the laundry, whip up blueberry buckwheat pancakes on the new griddle that I ordered, clean up, shower, get dressed, pack our bags, and we're out the door by 8:30 to walk G. to the subway.

8:30 a.m. — Realize I didn't put on deodorant! I head back home with T. and in the meantime get four emails from my bank's fraud alert asking whether I spent $400 on Amazon Australia. Uh, no. I give them a quick call, close out our current card, and am told that new cards should arrive tomorrow. That was painless, but I'll have to change all our auto-pay stuff later. I put on deodorant, drop T. at school, and head to work.

9:30 a.m. — This is a "slow" time at work for me, so I take advantage of it. My job is usually very busy and very stressful. I'm expected to be on call 24 hours a day, including weekends. It's pretty typical for me to work 70 to 80 hour weeks, so when I have a bit of downtime like this, I don't feel guilty. After pumping, I do a 30-minute yoga video from Aaptiv (my work friend sent me a 30-day free trial) in the mother's room. I feel so relaxed, and it's amazing. I've got to do this more often.

12:30 p.m. — We have an associate lunch today with limited veggie options. I eat iceberg lettuce and roasted potatoes, and some not-so-great creamed spinach. At least it's free?

1:30 p.m. — I place a FreshDirect order for apples, bananas, lemons, beets, avocados, carrots, kale, zucchini, Siggi's yogurt, nut milk, dried chickpeas, whole wheat English muffins, a bar of dark chocolate, a case of grapefruit LaCroix, and anchovy paste (for homemade Caesar salad dressing). $56

5 p.m. — Leave work, order Italian takeout (kale Caesar salad, garganelli pasta with mushrooms, and eggplant parm), and pick up the baby. G. meets us at the school since it's "open house" night. We chat with some of the teachers and other parents for a bit, and then head home. After dinner, we go to the game room again to play ping pong. T. loves it again and I envision him as Forrest Gump. $50

8 p.m. — Bedtime. We attempt to put T. in his crib, but he cries uncontrollably, and we don't even last five minutes. Then I snuggle him in our bed, and he passes out quickly. We go to bed around 9:30 again.

Daily Total: $106

Day Six

1:30 a.m. — In a lame effort to cut T. off the night feeds, I withhold the boob from him, which results in an hour of him whining and an hour of me being awake. I finally give in and give him the boob and he passes out immediately. Another mom fail…

6:20 a.m. — The intercom in our apartment goes off. FreshDirect is here. G. gets up to receive it and put the groceries away. They were out of my chocolate bar :(. I make us breakfast — Whole Foods peanut butter cereal for G. with sliced bananas, banana slices and puffs for T., and Siggi's yogurt with granola and banana for me. I think it's so cute that we all share the banana.

7:45 a.m. — G. has to take T. to school today because I have an early call at 8. I pack up the stroller with T.'s bottles and food and log into my computer to get ready for the call. My call ends at 9, and I take advantage of the alone time to run a quick 2.5 miles on the treadmill in the gym in my building. I finish up and my colleague wants to debrief, so I take a quick shower and jump on a call with her at 10. After getting caught up on work, I realize it's almost lunchtime and I might as well work from home to save on commuting time.

12 p.m. — I make a kale salad with homemade Caesar dressing (olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, anchovy paste, a dash of soy sauce, and cinnamon) and pumpkin seeds. I also eat an apple with almond butter. I feel weak. I think I may be getting sick. I work all afternoon while watching the Kavanaugh hearing in the background. She is a credible witness. He is angry AF and won't stop talking about beer. If I hear the word "beer" again…

5:15 p.m. — I meet G. picking up T. from school, and we all walk home together. G. says his throat hurts, and we both agree that we're sick. We stop in the communal herb garden in our building's courtyard to pick a heap of basil for dinner. I make G. a kale Caesar like what I had for lunch. I also make pasta — whole wheat orecchiette with yellow squash cooked with olive oil, garlic, tomato paste, anchovy paste, and red pepper flakes. Mix in butter, a ton of parmesan, and then cut basil at the last minute. It's delicious. We also have some more Wolffer wine and mint chocolate chip ice cream for dessert. Baby gags on plain pasta, so he eats chickpeas and bananas instead.

8 p.m. — We're all definitely sick. T.'s been especially boogery this week, so I blame him. I guess the germs are the cost of the snuggles. Fine by me. G. and I snuggle, take Tylenol PM, and go to bed early.

Daily Total: $0

Day Seven

6:45 a.m. — Wake up to an alarm because T. has his nine-month checkup. I'm still feeling sick, but at least not worse than yesterday. We shower, get dressed, eat breakfast, and leave at 8. G. and I disagree about how to get there. It's only 1.2 miles away, and I want to walk, but it's drizzling out, so G. wins and we take the car. The garage is in our building, so G. calls to give them a heads up, and then we're on our way. We actually find street parking and it's $1 for an hour. $1

8:30 a.m. — We love our doctor. I told him I was worried about some things, and he says whatever we're doing is great, because the baby is thriving. After the appointment, we drop the car at the garage. G. heads directly to work and I stop in the apartment to breastfeed T. and grab his food for the day. Then I drop him off at daycare. We arrive just in time for snack time, and I sit with him while he eats a few blueberries for the first time. Then it's off to work.

12 p.m. — I take a break to run to Sweetgreen with my coworker. I have $9 in rewards so my salad is only $3. We catch up about the hearing yesterday. $3

2:30 p.m. — It's pump time. I usually pump two to three times per day at work. My pumping schedule has to be flexible around my meetings. Then I go to a meeting for one of my cases. I can't wait to get home and for the weekend to start.

5 p.m. — I leave work, pick up T., wash his bottles and food jars, and then we take an early bath. Afterwards, I put his PJs on, breastfeed him, put him in the stroller, and head out with G. to our local Mexican spot for chips, guacamole, tacos (cactus for me, shrimp for G.), and margaritas! We head home at 7:30 for bedtime. $66.91

8 p.m. — The baby falls asleep in the stroller only a couple blocks into our walk home, so we decide to turn back to the Mexican restaurant and get a second round of margs! What a romantic treat for G. and me. We head home afterwards, transition T. into bed, and go to sleep. TGIF! $27.43

Daily Total: $98.34

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What $1,800 Gets You In Staten Island, NY

In Refinery29's Sweet Digs, we take a look inside the sometimes small, sometimes spacious homes of millennial women. In today's episode, Amanda Lee Domenech shows off her Staten Island two-story apartment, which she shares with her husband and a cat.

As a photographer, 28-year-old Amanda Domenech finds light very important. So for her, the selling points of her two-story Staten Island apartment were the high ceilings and morning light — something you can barely find in Manhattan.

"I can actually have plants in this apartment, which is crazy," Domenech says. "What really sold me was the kitchen with the vaulted ceiling. I feel so inspired when I'm drinking my coffee."

The bright two-bedroom space has an extra bonus, as well. Domenech and her husband outfitted the attic with a guest room, an office space, and even a space for her husband to jam out on the drums. And with their creative sensibilities combined (her husband is a videographer), they've created a colorful, punchy home inspired by their travels.

"I really wanted to go with a Scandinavian scene, but if it was up to my husband it would look like a hotel," Domenech says. "There would be nothing in it."

Watch the video above to get a grand tour of their home, and learn a few decorating tricks while at it. The most important one? Stay patient. "You’re never going to find the perfect piece at the time that you need it," Domenech says.

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How Trump Plans To Eliminate Transgender Recognition & How To Fight It

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This weekend, The New York Times reported that the Trump administration is considering implementing a strict definition of gender as “a biological, immutable condition determined by genitalia at birth.”

Should this come to pass, it would be a massive blow against the transgender community, effectively curtailing federal civil rights protections for trans people across the country.

How The Administration Plans To Enact The Change

A memo outlining the plan to narrow down the government’s definition of gender has been circulating among administration officials since last spring, per the NYT. The Department of Health and Human Services is leading the effort to establish a legal definition of sex under Title IX, which bans gender discrimination in education programs that receive financial aid from the government. The memo also states that any dispute over a person’s sex would have to be clarified using genetic testing.

Trump administration officials told the NYT that HHS is prepared to present the new definition to the Department of Justice to determine its legality by the end of the year. If the definition is approved by the DoJ, it can be applied to Title IX and across government agencies.

“This administration is willing to disregard the established medical and legal view of our rights and ourselves to solidify an archaic, dogmatic, and frightening view of the world,” said Mara Keisling, executive director of the National Center for Transgender Equality, in a statement to Refinery29.

According to the NYT, about 1.4 million transgender Americans would lose federal recognition under this new definition of gender.

Where Trump Stands On Transgender Rights

On the campaign trail in 2016, Donald Trump repeatedly promised to break from the GOP hard-line’s anti-LGBTQ sentiment. At the Republican convention, for example, he brought up the Orlando Pulse nightclub shooting — one of the largest in U.S. history, with 49 deaths — and swore to protect LGBTQ Americans. (If it wasn’t already clear to voters from the start, people close to the campaign later confirmed that it was, of course, a total sham.) He tweeted. He unabashedly waved the flag. At the time, his position attracted pundit support from across the aisle.

But since taking office, Trump and his administration have taken definitive steps to restrict trans rights. Last year, Trump lifted protections for trans students in school bathrooms. The Trump administration banned the Center for Disease Control and Prevention from using certain terms, including transgender, in its work and findings. He has repeatedly moved to ban trans people from joining the military, and earlier this year approved new guidelines limiting the capacity in which trans troops can serve. His administration rolled back regulations allowing prisoners to use housing and bathroom facilities corresponding with their gender identity, placing trans inmates at greater risk of violence and sexual assault.

How You Can Fight For Transgender Rights

This new definition could potentially have a huge impact on trans people, including affecting access to health care, education, housing, and employment, and the ability to acquire a photo ID (which, among other things, is required to register to vote in many states).

Omar Gonzalez-Pagan, a senior attorney at Lambda Legal, told Refinery29 that existing civil rights law, the majority of the courts, and medical and scientific consensus all go against the nature of this new definition.

“In any event, organizations like Lambda Legal stand ready to battle and fight against such an outrageous proposal so divorced from reality and the lived experiences of this community,” Gonzalez-Pagan said. “But I think in the immediate...Call your representatives. Call your media outlet. Find ways to elevate the voices of transgender people.”

While this proposal is administrative in nature, Congress is able to take legislative steps to safeguard trans rights, specifying that trans rights are protected under Title VII and Title IX. Keisling says that NCTE is pushing for Congress to pass the Equality Act, which is written to explicitly protect LGBTQ Americans’ civil rights.

Legislators on the state level are also able to pass laws protecting their trans citizens’ rights. Brianna Titone, a trans woman running for the state House of Representatives in Colorado’s District 27, says instances like these are why it is vital to vote. “We need more state legislation to protect civil rights, but many states refuse to advocate for their most vulnerable citizens,” Titone tells Refinery29. “We need to elect people at all levels who will stand up for these groups of citizens.”

The Trevor Project said in a statement that they have seen a significant rise in contacts from young transgender and non-binary people in the past year, now over 30% of their total crisis volume. “Trevor will always be here to let LGBTQ youth know they are not alone, we will always fight to keep LGBTQ youth safe, and we are exploring options to push back against any policy decisions that tell LGBTQ youth they should not exist,” they said. “And as always we will be available 24/7 for any and all LGBTQ youth in their moment of crisis.”

If you are an LGBTQ person experiencing a crisis or thinking about suicide, please call the Trevor Lifeline at 1-866-488-7386.

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Trump Should Be Worried About These White House Ghosts Coming Out To Haunt Him

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The White House is more than just the place our president lives and works; it’s where most of the major political moments in American history have happened. And all those moments, had by so many presidents and the leaders and founders of the country, means one thing: ghosts.

Jenna Bush Hager recently confirmed what many of you may have suspected for years: the White House is extremely haunted.

“My phone rang, it woke us up in the middle of the night. We had a fireplace in our room, and all of a sudden we started hearing, like, 1920s piano music, as clear as day, coming out of the fireplace,” Hager said on the Today show.

President Harry Truman also had a ghost sighting. He wrote in a letter to his wife, “I sit in this old house, all the while listening to the ghosts walk up and down the hallway. At four o’clock, I was awakened by three distinct knocks on my bedroom door. No one was there. Damned place is haunted, sure as shootin’!”

Sure as shootin’, indeed.

Anyway, if one accepts that the White House is haunted (which, again, it absolutely is), one must also accept that the many ghosts who are always present somewhere in the White House, Haunting of Hill House -style, may not be crazy about the current president who is banging around the place.

Unfortunately, we don’t yet have the security clearance to march right up to these ghosts and ask them just what they think of President Donald Trump. But what we do have are the powers of hearty speculation and knowledge of what Trump has done throughout his time in office. So, here are all the known ghosts of the White House, plus all the beef they could have with Trump.

Abraham Lincoln is one of the most commonly-spotted White House ghosts. According to the Washington Post, his ghost has been spotted by everyone from Winston Churchill to Grace Coolidge.

Lincoln reportedly appears whenever the country is in turmoil (he was supposedly seen by Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt during FDR’s presidency, which witnessed both the Great Depression and World War II). And, during his lifetime, he hated excess grandeur in the White House, even getting angry with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, when she spent too much money decorating “this damned old house.” So, considering Trump’s all-gold Oval Office decor, his bigotry against oppressed groups, and his divisive rhetoric that has ripped apart the country, Trump may just have reason to worry about spotting an angry Lincoln somewhere in the White House.

Photo: US National Archives/Getty Images.

Abigail Adams is another well-known White House ghost. She and John Adams were the first couple to live in the White House, which was being constructed during the Adams administration, and she reportedly liked to hang her laundry in the East Room.

According to Mental Floss, members of the Taft administration saw Adams’ ghost in the East Room, arms outstretched as though she was carrying a laundry basket, as well as the faint scent of laundry soap.

Adams, who was a strong advocate for women’s rights at a time when very few were available to them, would have many reasons to dislike Trump. In 1776, she famously wrote a letter to her husband, asking him and other members of the Continental Congress to “remember the ladies” as they waged a war of independence against the British. (“Remember, all men would be tyrants if they could,” she continued.)

Trump may not have forgotten about the women, per se, but he hasn’t exactly treated them well, either. Chances are, Abigail Adams (or, rather, her ghost) isn’t into him.

Photo: Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images.

There is another former president’s wife who reportedly still hangs out in the White House — Dolley Madison.

Madison, who is often credited with helping to create a role in the White House for the president’s wife (though the “First Lady” title wasn’t used until much later), cemented her legacy in the White House by planting the Rose Garden. Madison’s ghost reportedly still keeps watch over the Rose Garden and gets angry whenever changes are made there.

Madison was a Quaker — a religion that has taken a stand against Trump today and believes in the spiritual equality of men and women — and would probably not be a fan of Trump, who has bragged about sexually assaulting women.

Photo: Hulton Archive/Getty Images.

The ghost of Thomas Jefferson can sometimes be heard playing his violin in the Yellow Oval Room, according to the White House History page.

As a white guy born in the 1700s, Jefferson may feel aligned with Trump on certain issues. But there is at least one on which they would be decidedly opposed: Jefferson was an ardent supporter of the free press.

“Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter,” he wrote in a letter in 1787. There are some later instances that complicate this narrative — for example, he never actually said another quote, “When the speech condemns a free press, you are hearing the words of a tyrant,” that is often attributed to Jefferson in anti-Trump memes, and had a more complicated relationship with the critical press when he became president.

Still, throughout it all, he supported the First Amendment. This is a vastly different approach from Trump, who has called the media the “enemy of the people.”

Photo: Hulton Archive/Getty Images.

According to CNN, an unnamed British soldier who died during the War of 1812 still roams the White House grounds.

Sure, it’s possible that a British soldier who died in a war trying to re-colonize the States and has been cursed to forever roam the White House would hate any American president. But considering the U.K.’s current views on Trump (there was that “Trump Baby ” blimp flying around London just a few months ago) this soldier might dislike Trump a bit more than the average White House inhabitant.

Photo: The Print Collector/Getty Images.

Andrew Jackson has also been spotted in the White House — Mary Todd Lincoln said she went toe-to-toe with Jackson’s ghost in the Rose Room, which was his former bedroom.

Now, at first glance, Trump and Jackson have a lot in common. Both are cantankerous, controversial presidents who have caused considerable damage to people of color. Trump also appears to be a fan of Jackson, who was referred to as “Indian killer” during his presidency and once placed Jackson’s portrait in a prominent position during an event honoring Navajos.

But Jackson would not be a fan Trump, we're guessing. Jackson was a penniless orphan who worked his way up to become president by being a war hero, and probably would have resented Trump’s draft dodging and privileged upbringing.

So, if you dislike Jackson’s legacy and you dislike Trump, you may be able to comfort yourself by thinking of your two nemeses duking it out in the Oval Office.

Photo: Hulton Archive/Getty Images.

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Don't Miss The Last Week Of The Money Diaries Savings Challenge & Save More Than $600

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Managing your finances can be a pretty personal project, but when I was writing Refinery29 Money Diaries, I was really inspired by the idea of women connecting online and IRL to cheer each other on as we all try to achieve the same goal: getting more comfortable with managing our money.

With that in mind, I've developed this savings challenge that you can follow along with here, in the book, and in our Facebook group. The challenges I'm going to be sharing over the next six weeks aren't always exactly same as the ones featured in the book, but having a copy will make this project a richer experience. (Don't have a copy yet? You can pick one up here! Don't want to buy the book — grab a copy from your local library!)

A few quick notes on our six-week money saving challenge:

How it works: Over the next six weeks, I'm going to challenge you to cross one financial task off your list every day and save a corresponding dollar amount. We'll start on Day 1 with writing down your financial info and saving $1. Once a week there will be a "Bonus Challenge," where you'll save even more money. You'll also get rest days where you don't have to save any money and can use that time to relax or get caught up on past challenges. At no point in the challenge will you need to save more than $32 in a single day. In the end, you can save as much as $628 if you do every single challenge.

When: Every Sunday evening, I'll post the schedule for the week ahead. While we're starting this challenge on a Monday, and each new week will kick off on Mondays, you can start this challenge on any day of the week.

Are you having an expensive month and can't manage to save $32 in one day, let alone $600 in six weeks? Don't stress. Try saving every other day, or every few days, or even once a week. The idea is to get more mindful with your money, not beat yourself up if you can't hit these goals.

Where: I'll update this page weekly with a new schedule, but you can also follow along in our Facebook group, where Anabel Pasarow and Kate Guarino, two Refinery29 employees, will be doing the challenge as well.

Let's get started, shall we?

Week 1: Getting Started

Day 1: Write down your financial info
Before you can even get started, you need to know where you stand. Take time today to write down all your financial information in one place. That includes your checking and savings account balance, your 401(k) balance, and any outstanding debt. To get the full list of what you should include see page 12-13 in the book. Save $1

Day 2: Do one annoying financial task
It wasn't until I started writing this book that I finally took care of some pretty annoying financial tasks — like rolling over a really old 401(k). (Hello, productive procrastinating!) Today, tackle one of the outstanding financial tasks on your to-do list. File an FSA claim. Ask the bank to refund any fees. Need some more suggestions? Check out page 32-33 in the book (and find out why you might want to take a whole money mental health day!). Save $2

Day 3: Check your credit score
Checking your credit score used to be an involved process, but it doesn't take much to track it down these days. You can sometimes find it on your credit card statement, or you can use an app like Turbo. These apps will also let you know if your score goes up or down, which can be helpful if you're about to get a mortgage, refinance your loans, or rent an apartment. For more about how your credit score works (and an easy way to bump it up), check out pages 28-29 in the book. Save $3

Day 4: Take the highlighter test
This might be my number-one favorite piece of advice in the book. Developed by the financial advisor Manisha Thakor, it's step one in a three-part challenge to help curb unnecessary spending (you can read about steps 2 and 3 on pages 22-24 in the book). The idea is that you go through your spending for a month (including everything from your rent to your cable bill) and highlight anything that doesn't bring you joy. Check back on Thursday when we'll be sharing the highlighter test from a reader. Save $4

Day 5: Use your credit card points
I've never been strategic about using my credit card points and maybe the best and worst thing that's ever happened to me is the new Amazon feature that lets me pay with my Amex points. Today, take some time to figure out how many credit card points you have and make a point to use them if they are going to expire soon. Don't have a credit card? Check out page 30-31 of the book to see why you should consider getting one. Save $5

Day 6: BONUS CHALLENGE: Write a Money Mantra
Financial advisor and founder of Stash Wealth Priya Malani first shared the idea of money mantras with me way back in 2015. I was initially a little skeptical — it sounded a bit too New Age-y for me. But I learned that it can be really helpful to have a mission statement when it comes to your money — a sentence or so that grounds your goals. I share a little more about my personal mantra in the book (see pages 15-16), and we've talked about them in the Facebook group before. (Plus, there was a whole room at 29Rooms dedicated to them!) Today, write down your own. Then save an extra $5 because this is a bonus challenge!

Day 7: Rest Day
You killed it tackling six money challenges! You've also saved $20. It's a good start! Enjoy a day off and get ready for Week 2!

Week 2: Raise Week

This week we’re going to focus on getting you paid.

Day 8: Calculate your compensation package
You know your base salary or hourly wage. But when was the last time you considered how much your other job benefits are worth? Today, take some time to calculate your whole compensation package, from your 401(k) match to the number of vacation days you have to any annual or semi-annual bonuses you might receive. You might even want to include all the money you’re saving on snacks if you work for one of those awesome companies that keep fully-stocked kitchens and serve gourmet (or even half-way decent) coffee. To get the full list of what you should include when adding up your compensation package, see page 100-101 in the book. Save $6

Day 9: Make a plan to ask for a raise
We’re coming up on the end of the year, so it’s definitely not too early to start talking to your boss about their plans and your goals for 2019 and beyond. Need more help asking for a raise? Check out pages 86-92 in the book for expert advice from Sallie Krawcheck and Fran Hauser (and also a few anecdotes from me). And this Tuesday, we’ll be publishing a piece from Fran, where she shares the negotiating success stories from women who have followed her good advice! Save $7

Day 10: Talk to a recruiter
One of my favorite pieces of advice in the book comes from Fran, who suggests the best way to know what salary to ask for in a job negotiation is to talk to a recruiter. I recently had dinner with a woman who said two different recruiters suggested she ask for two vastly different salaries (we’re talking $50,000 difference!). When it comes to knowing what you should be paid, the more data you can collect the better. So don’t just stop with one recruiter, ask a few. (Not sure how to find one? This Muse article has some great advice.) Save $8

Day 11: Go out to a networking coffee
It’s easy to fall into a habit of going to work every day and not thinking about your long-term career goals. But there’s no better time to look for a new job than when you have a job. And even if you have no desire to make a switch today, it’s always good to nurture your relationships. Take a page from one of our awesome book diarists (A Week in Philadelphia on $88,000) and go out to coffee with someone in your network today. Save $9

Day 12: Update your résumé
There are few things that are less fun than revising your résumé, but it’s so much easier if you update as you go along. Spend a little time tidying it up today — even if it’s just 10-15 minutes. We’ve got a lot of great résumé resources for you right here. Save $10

Day 13: BONUS CHALLENGE: Plan a vacation
Did you know that if you don’t take your paid vacation days, it actually means you’re working more for less money? So take some time off! (Want to know how much those vacation days are actually worth? See page 83 in the book.) With the end of year fast approaching, spend some time today planning a vacation. Don’t have an emergency fund? Then make that a staycation, okay? Then save an extra $10 because this is a bonus challenge!

Day 14: Rest Day
You made it through the second week of the challenge! Nice job! Take today to rest and relax, or catch up on anything you didn’t finish yet from week 1 or 2.

Week 3: Debt Week

It’s time to get back in the black.

Day 15: Write down your debt details
Do you know how much debt you have? You might have a vague sense of your credit card and student loan balance, but today let’s figure out the exact amount. And if you have student loan debt, write down the date the final payment is due. Even if that’s 15 years (or more) from now, you’ve got an end date and that’s powerful information. Save $11

Day 16: Set up a plan to manage your debt
There are two debt repayment methods that financial advisors typically recommend: snowball and avalanche. With the snowball approach, you first pay your monthly minimums, then throw any extra cash at the smallest amount of debt until you conquer it. The avalanche method focuses on interest rates, so you pay off the loan with the highest APY first, because that’s the debt that’s costing you the most money. Pay your monthly minimums first, and then focus on the debt with the highest interest rate. Want to learn more about the fastest way to pay off your debt and how to consolidate your loans? See Chapter 5 in the book. Save $12

Day 17: Do a Zero-Dollar Day
You’ll need to do a little prep ahead of doing a zero-dollar day to make sure you’ve got enough food, a full tank of gas or a prepaid Metro card, and your rent or bills aren’t due. Then simply don’t spend any money for one day. Looking for other easy ways to save some cash? See pages 132-133 in the book! Save $13

Day 18: Cancel 1 subscription
Most of us are paying for a subscription or service we don’t really need because sometimes it’s just easier to not cancel them. But do you really need Netflix and HBOGO and Hulu and cable? Or what about that gym membership you never use? Today, cancel one subscription you’re not using. Save $14

Day 19: Social your debt payment
Okay, I know this is a little out there, and even if you don’t want to share your debt payment with the world, you should still $15 today. But if we really want to change the negative stereotypes around debt (and we do!), we have to be more open talking about our money challenges. So today, social your debt. Take a snap of your most recent student loan or credit card statement (don’t include account numbers, I don’t want you getting hacked!) and share it on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Use the hashtag #MoneyDiariesDebtChallenge Save $15

Day 20: BONUS CHALLENGE: Use found money to pay down more debt
One of my favorite financial tips from Priya Malani, financial advisor extraordinaire, is to use any extra money to pay off more of your debt. So say you sell something on Poshmark, get an unexpected bonus at work, or your grandma sends you some birthday cash — use some of it to make an extra payment on your student loans or credit card debt. Every extra bit can help you get back into the black more quickly! Need some ideas for a side hustle you could take on to earn some extra cash? See pages 166-167 in the book. Then save an extra $15 because this is a bonus challenge!

Day 21: Rest Day
Nice job, you’ve made it through week 3, and we’ve only got three more weeks to go! Take today off, or get caught up on any challenges you might have missed!

Week 4: Emergencies Week

This week, let's lay some ground work to protect future you.

Day 22: Open a high-yield savings account
This simple task that Priya Malani has been preaching for years is a game-changer. It doesn’t take very long to do, but it can have a real impact on your savings. Do you know how much interest your savings account is earning right now? Most traditional banks offer pretty paltry interest rates (I’m talking 0.02%), but do a little digging and you can find a lot of great options at 1.5% or higher. Maybe that doesn’t seem like a lot, but just do the math. Say you manage to save $600 over this 6-week challenge. In a traditional savings account, you might earn $0.12 in interest. In a high-yield account with a 1.5% interest rate, you’ll earn $9. That’s $9 more dollars on your way to saving for a fully-funded emergency account. Save $16

Day 23: Make a plan to save $2,000
In the book, I worked with financial advisor Manisha Thakor to finally answer the question: how much money do you need in an emergency account? Her answer is $2,000. Today, map out a plan to save that much. It roughly breaks down to $5 a day over the course of a year, but maybe you can do it faster! Need some quick money-saving ideas? Check out pages 132-133 in the book. Save $17

Day 24: Deal with any outstanding medical bills
Is it just me sitting on a few medical bills that need some attention from the insurance company — as in, isn’t this included in my coverage plan? This kind of project is a bigger lift, so you might want to break it over a few days. See page 119 for more advice on understanding your insurance plan. And when dealing with insurance reps on the phone, just remember: It’s okay to ask questions until you get an answer you understand. Good luck! Save $18

Day 25: Decide if you need life insurance
Life insurance is one of those scary adult things that most people don’t worry about until they have kids. But I worked with Certified Financial Planner Barbara Ginty to determine just who needs life insurance — and what kind. Check out pages 128-131 to build out your ultimate “escape plan” — that’s the 21st-century version of an estate plan, and everyone needs one. Save $19

Day 26: Use your FSA dollars
An FSA account is a great idea — but only if you spend it. These pre-tax dollars can be used on everything from your birth control to your therapy copay. With only a few months left in the year, make sure you’re up-to-date filing all the paperwork. I have to admit, there’s nothing quite like seeing the reimbursement check hit your bank account to feel a little bit (unexpectedly) flush for a minute (or two). Save $20

Day 27: Rest Day
This has been a busy week, so I’m giving you a rest day a day early. Use today to get caught up on anything you missed or give yourself a break. You’ve made it through four weeks of this challenge — that’s amazing!

Day 28: BONUS CHALLENGE: Meal prep for the week
I swapped the rest and bonus days this week, so you could spend Sunday doing meal prep. One of my favorite Money Diaries money-saving tips is prepping your meals so you can save on lunch and dinners. Today, take a page from a bunch of awesome OPs and prep for the week ahead. Need some inspiration? My fellow Refinery29 food editors pulled together a slideshow of their favorite Money Diaries meal prep tips. Check it out here! Then save an extra $20 because this is a bonus challenge!

Week 5: Relationships Week

This week, let's talk about how our money impacts others!

Day 29: Share a financial secret with someone you trust
One big theme throughout the book is how awkward it can be to talk about money, whether you’re trying to navigate splitting the bill on the first date, chatting with your parents about their retirement savings, or asking your boss for a raise. But it’s awkward for almost everyone — it only gets easier if you talk about! Today, share a financial secret with someone you trust. It doesn’t have to be something super dramatic. Maybe just share a goal you’ve set for yourself, or finally fess up to how much student loan debt you’ve got. It might not be easy, but it will be worthwhile. Save $21

Day 30: Make a plan for kids & money
One time, in a Refinery29 focus group, a young woman said, “It’s not like you can save to have a baby.” Cue the record screech. You can save to have a baby — and it’s not a bad idea to think about the cost of raising a kid before you start trying to have one. Today, begin to plan for how you might afford a baby one day. Already have one? Do you have a 529 plan, a will, and life insurance? Never want kids? Start thinking about another long-term goal you want to achieve and start putting a plan in place to make it a reality. Oh yeah, the book has a whole chapter on kids and money — check out pages 168-193. Save $22

Day 31: Send your parents a thank you note
I’ve taught my toddler to say “please” and “thank you,” and it’s so sweet to hear him expressing gratitude for everything from a new toy truck to a cup of milk. Today, take a few minutes to send your parents (or a parental figure in your life) a thank you note for all the nice things they’ve done for you, whether they paid for college or still pay your phone bill. Save $23

Day 32: Make a money date
Got an S.O.? When’s the last time you talked money? Today, schedule a money date so the two of you can start really discussing your finances — and your future together. Not sure what to say? Check out pages 54-57 in the book for 21 questions to get you started. No S.O.? That’s okay! Make a money date with yourself! Save $24

Day 33: Donate money to a cause you care about
Okay, I know it might seem counter-intuitive to spend money during a money-saving challenge, but hear me out. Yes, I want you to save money, but I also want you to make sure you’re spending money in a way that makes you feel good. So today, take a few minutes to donate money to a cause you care about, whether that’s a friend’s GoFundMe, a political campaign, or a local nonprofit you believe in. Save $25

Day 34: BONUS CHALLENGE: Catch up on a missed challenge
We’re almost to the end of our six-week challenge — just one week left! And I bet you’ve missed at least one challenge along the way. Take today to get caught up on one of the bigger projects, whether that’s developing your escape plan or going out for a networking coffee. Then save an extra $25 because this is a bonus challenge!

Day 35: Rest Day
Look at that! You made it through week 5! Nice job! Today, take a real rest day and don’t think about your money. It’s good to take a break every once in a while, and you’ve been doing such an awesome job! Over $400 saved at this point! Well done!

Week 6: Future You Week

Let’s plan for the future, and let’s make it fun!

(Note, there's no rest day or bonus day this week — we're just going to power through and finish the challenge! You can do it!)

Day 36: Increase your 401(k) by 1%
Do you know how much your contributing to your 401(k)? Is it enough? I have to admit, when I was writing this book, I had to look up to see exactly how much of my paycheck was going to my 401(k) each pay period (10% for the record). If you don’t have a 401(k) yet, let’s take some time today to set one up. If you do have one, let’s see how increasing your contribution by 1% might impact your overall savings and spending goals. Bankrate has a great calculator to see how just a small change can help you reach big goals in the future. For more on retirement accounts in general, check out pages 270-278 in the book. Save $26

Day 37: Make a long-term savings goal
It can be really hard for some people to save if they don’t have a goal that’s motivating them. (Okay, sometimes it's just hard to save because of small paychecks and big expenses.) Today, let's make some long-term savings goals, whether that’s an amazing vacation next summer, a house in five years, or your own business in 10. See page 283-284 in the book for more advice on how to plan for and then successfully tackle your long-term savings goals. Save $27

Day 38: Rollover an old 401(k)
Oh, this dreaded task! I was sitting on two very old 401(k) accounts before I wrote this book, and I finally rolled them over last winter. Did you know that you get charged all kinds of hidden fees to leave those old 401(k)s just sitting there after you leave a job? Ugh, I don’t even want to think about how much money I wasted when it takes just a few minutes (okay, okay, more like half an hour) to take care of this annoying chore. Check out pages 279-280 in the book and get this off your plate once and for all! Save $28

Day 39: Research investment options
If you have an emergency fund and you’re maxing your match on your 401(k), today could be a good time to do a little research into your best plan for investing any extra money you might have (this will help you achieve those long-term goals). See pages 283-290 for more advice on investing; and also check out this interesting Refinery29 article on different robo-advising platforms. They can be a great place for beginner’s to get comfortable with the market. Save $29

Day 40: Write a review of Money Diaries
Did you make it through both the book and the six-week challenge? Can I ask you a favor? Can you write a review of the book on Amazon? And leave a comment below? We love to hear feedback, and good reviews on Amazon can help book sales! I really appreciate it! Save $30

Day 41: Take a screenshot of your savings account
You don’t have to share the screenshot with the world but save it for yourself. Did you manage to save as much as you hoped during this challenge? What are some changes you would make to your savings habits going forward? Take a minute today to reflect on the last six weeks, and decide if there are any outstanding challenges you still might want to tackle. Save $31

Day 42: Do a Money Diary
This is the last challenge in the book and one of my all-time favorite money tips! You don’t have to submit it to Refinery29 for publication (though here’s a link to the form if you do), but it’s a really great way to get more mindful of your spending and savings habits. Save $32

And with that, we’re all done with our six-week challenge! How did it go? Let us know in the comments if you made it through the whole thing! Either way, thanks for following along, and good luck getting your financial life in order! We hope if you learned anything over the last month and a half is that none of this is that hard, but the feeling of saving money can be really satisfying and motivating!

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27 Of The Raddest Nail Salons In New York City

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Frequent visitors and the born-and-bred alike know that New York City is known for a lot of major firsts, like the first bank-issued credit cards, the first teddy bear — even the first plate of eggs Benedict was served in the kitchen at the now-shuttered Waldorf Astoria.

And in addition to being the original home to our favorite brunch entrée, New York is also the birthplace of the very first nail salon in the U.S. Fast forward 140 years, and the city is home to more than a thousand of them. And while we can all appreciate giving ourselves a good DIY mani while binge-watching The Office, let’s be honest: Nail care is one beauty ritual that most people are happy to outsource.

To avoid the potential staph infections and design booklets of bad nail art, ahead are the go-to spots worth a standing appointment. Whether you're looking for one-of-a-kind designs or a simple gel manicure, these are the best New York nail salons to try today.

Akiko Nails
Into intricate nail art? Look no further than this LES nail shop. Here, nail artists borrow traditional Japanese techniques to create, well, anything you want. Not feeling so inspired? No problem: You can check out the gallery here or simply brainstorm with your technician, as the shop specializes in hundreds of designs.

Akiko Nails, 137 Rivington St. (near Norfolk St.); 646-841-6721.

Photo: Courtesy ofr Akiko Nails.

Bed Of Nails
This Harlem nail salon is arguably the neighborhood’s most posh; owner Candice Idehen, who’s tended to models’ nails at global fashion weeks, has stocked her spot with premium lacquers from the likes of Chanel, Deborah Lippmann, Tom Ford, and Essie. When she’s not on set for magazines such as Bazaar and Vogue, Idehen still takes appointments at her salon. It might not be a bad idea to become one of her regulars before word gets all the way out.

Bed of Nails, 2272 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard (between West 133rd and West 134th); 212-694-2200.

Photo: Courtesy of Bed Of Nails.

Bisou
Looking for a one-of-a-kind nail art experience? Make an appointment at Soho's Bisou. It's the en vogue nail art haven cranking out original designs you haven't seen all over Instagram.

Bisou Nail Art Atelier, 6 Spring Street; 347-330-3477.

Photo Courtesy of Vogue.

Chillhouse
Ever wish you could grab a cappuccino to sip on during your mani or follow up that gel nail art with a massage? Chillhouse makes it all possible. With an extensive service menu and an Instagram-worthy aesthetic, this newer favorite has it all — with a matcha latte on the side.

Chillhouse, 149 Essex Street; 646-678-3501.

Delacqua Salon
It's not cheap, but if you're looking for indulgence, this Brooklyn salon — which looks like a hipster tattoo parlor set in the Victorian era — is your spot. A popular service is the non-acrylic manicure using LNC gel, with some add-on 3-D nail art for drama.

Delacqua Salon and Spa, 2027 86th Street (between Bay 26th and Bay 25th Streets), Brooklyn; 718-266-1233.

Photo: Courtesy of Yelp.

Essie Flagship Salon
Situated inside Samuel Shriqui is nail legend Essie Weingarten's first-ever salon. Choose from over 300 of the brand's iconic shades (everything from Ballet Slippers to Mint Candy Apple) and sink into one of the oversized, lush leather chairs, which are just as colorful as the polish itself. It's a designer home for a household beauty name.

Essie Flagship Salon, 35 East 65th Street (between Madison and Park); 212-472-6805.

Photo: Courtesy of Essie Flagship Salon.

Green Nail Salon

This Brooklyn spa (that's only steps away from the L) specializes in one thing: affordable nail art. The experience won't be as glamorous as it might be in a boutique spot in uptown Manhattan, but walking away with a rad manicure that doesn't immediately trigger buyer's remorse is definitely worth considering when your budget is tight and your cuticles are overgrown.

Green Nail Salon, 354 Graham Ave Brooklyn; 718-218-8985.

Hortūs Nailworks
An appointment for one of this LES mainstay's totally indulgent — and blissfully affordable — manicure or pedicure treatments will have you feeling like you just came back from one of those spa retreats Gisele gets to take. Listen to smooth jazz, sip cocktails during Hortūs Happy Hour (11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday through Wednesday), and talk it out with Jane, the owner, who might be one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet.

Hortūs Nailworks, 210 Forsyth Street (between Stanton and East Houston); 917-475-1558.

Photo: Courtesy of Hortus Nailworks.

Jin Soon Natural Hand & Foot Salon
Nail artist Jin Soon is a mainstay backstage at fashion week, where she consistently whips up gorgeous nail looks that quickly become trends. But her salon, of which there are multiple locations across NYC, is definitely a more low-key experience. The spot is known for its luxe add-ons, like a flower-petal foot soak, to give you a seriously relaxing spa experience.

Jin Soon Natural Hand & Foot Salon, multiple locations.

Photo: Courtesy of Jin Soon Natural Hand & Food Salon.

Local Honey
This Brooklyn salon does it all — nails, lash extensions, brows, waxing, and more — making it a one-stop shop for all things beauty in Bushwick. Your options are unlimited, from nail art to a simple "quickie" manicure or pedicure. Bonus? The prices are super competitive.

Local Honey, 53 Irving Ave. (at Troutman St.), Brooklyn; 347-404-6139.

Marie Nails
The artists here make sure every manicure is photo-worthy and perfect down to the last detail, but we suggest booking an appointment far in advance — it seems the secret is out.

Marie Nails, 155 Prince Street; 646-370-4170.

Photo: Via @marienails/Instagram.

The Nail Boutique
Dying to try acrylic but never had the guts? The Nail Boutique has the liquid courage you need — we mean nail polish, of course. This boutique spa manages to be glitzy without forsaking cleanliness or professionalism. Their chief mission: to make you feel fabulous.

The Nail Boutique, 983 Fulton Street, Brooklyn; 718-636-2024.

Nail+Spa Sakura
Sisters Yumiko and Fumiko Kano have a long history of successful nail salons: The duo owned three spots in Japan before launching stateside, where they opened their first spa on the Upper East Side in 2007. Next came their serene Lower East Side haunt, which boasts a relaxing, sophisticated interior and a meticulous staff.

Nail+Spa Sakura, 35 East 1st Street (between First and Second avenues); 212-387-9161.

Photo: Courtesy of NAIL+SPA Sakura.

Paintbox
So maybe you’re interested in nail art, but you don’t want your thumbnails to have 3D dinosaurs playing ping-pong while a Precious Moments kitten pounces on your pinky. That’s where Paintbox comes in. The spacious studio features a menu of chic seasonal designs all dreamed up by celebrity manicurist and creative director Julie Kandalec. A host of smart touches (complimentary beverages, iPhone charging stations) has quickly placed this spot among the city’s best beautifiers.

Paintbox, 17 Crosby Street (between Grand and Howard); 212-219-2412.

Paintbucket
If you take the nail art options from Paintbox, mix it with the cool-girl vibe of Chillhouse, then stick it in Brooklyn, you'll get Paintbucket. Already boasting an extensive lookbook, a relaxing space to spend a Sunday afternoon, and free bubbly, this salon is located just far enough away from the busy streets of Williamsburg that the low-key spot is still a bit of a secret. Though, we have a feeling that won't be the case for long...

Paintbucket, 204 Wythe Ave. Brooklyn; 347-987-4700.

Pau Hana
If you still think of everything south of Williamsburg as a no man's land, then avail yourself of this teeny-tiny nail salon in one of Brooklyn's most charming neighborhoods. The Hawaiian-themed decor is kitschy in the best way, and they have numerous organic polish options on offer, as well as your Essie and OPI favorites. Just be sure to book a chair well in advance — walk-ins are accepted and the seats fill up fast.

Pau Hana, 235 Court St. (at Baltic St.), Brooklyn; 347-223-4224.

ph7
This tiny salon is decked out in minimal decor, packed with non-toxic nail polish from floor to ceiling, and stocked with organic herbal tea. If you haven't already noticed, this salon boasts a mission statement that includes eco-friendly services, organic essential oil hand massages, and handcrafted wood furniture that looks like something Aidan Shaw made on SATC — with low-key vibes to match. A gel manicure won't cost you more than $50 and walk-ins are totally okay (although appointments are appreciated).

ph7, 227 Grand St. (between Driggs and Roebling), Brooklyn; 718-218-8586.

Primp & Polish
No, this isn’t the cheapest spot in Brooklyn, and we’re not crazy about having to pay $4 more for Dior or Chanel lacquer. But we’re letting that go because of these three words: outdoor pedicure garden, where you can stretch out while your feet are massaged, your hangnails are removed, and your toenails are painted to a glossy shine. No need to worry about inclement weather, either — the patio is covered, so you can get groomed come rain, shine, or whatever crazy stuff Mother Nature throws at us next.

Primp & Polish, 172 Bedford Avenue (between North 7th and North 8th), Brooklyn; 718-384-3555.

Red Door Salon & Spa
If treating yourself to a luxurious mani/pedi appointment at Elizabeth Arden's famous salon (Marilyn Monroe was a patron) is wrong, then who wants to be right? For your first visit, consider the Escape service, which offers a 10-minute hand and arm massage in addition to the hour-long treatment.

Red Door Salon & Spa, 663 Fifth Avenue at 52nd Street; 212-546-0200.

Photo: Courtesy of Red Door Salon & Spa.

RounGe NYC
If Cardi B didn't have a personal nail artist already on call, we could envision her stopping by this salon any time she came back to the city. The hotspot imports techniques, styles, and equipment directly from Japan and employs a team of skilled artists for the bedazzled designs you never knew you needed. But be forewarned: One manicure can take upwards of three hours. (In this video, R29 beauty host Mi-Anne gets a Sailor Moon-inspired set.)

RounGe NYC, 201 E 23rd Street; 646-707-3504.

Sundays Nail Studio
Highlighting the industrial architecture the city is known for, this Flatiron nail studio brings a down-to-earth vibe to the typical NYC salon. Somewhere between Southern California and Scandinavian style, the hidden gem is a minimalist's oasis — and not just because of the earthy interior design.

Founder Amy Ling Lin was determined to create a studio that provided safer nail care for clients without all the frills, but packed with plenty of wellness benefits. Aside from her own nail polish line (called Sundays, of course) — which is non-toxic, cruelty free, and vegan — Lin's salon also offers guided-meditation manicures for anyone looking for some R&R from the busy city.

Sundays Nail Studio, 51 E. 25th St.; 646-998-5711.

Sweet Lily Natural Nail Spa
Sweet Lily's nail philosophy is consciousness: The spa actively avoids the use of harsh chemicals, instead opting for safe, natural, yet still effective products. All of the hand and foot exfoliants are made on site, and the spa exclusively uses Zoya polishes, which are free of formaldehyde, DBP, toluene, or camphor. Treat yourself both vanity-wise and health-wise.

Sweet Lily Natural Nail Spa, 222 West Broadway (between White and Franklin streets); 212-925-5441.

Photo: Courtesy of Sweet Lily.

Tenoverten
Better show up 10 minutes early for your mani/pedi — you’ll want the extra time to pore over Tenoverten’s massive selection of polish colors. Along with its excellent house brand of five-free lacquers, the salon has the latest hues from the likes of RGB, NARS, Essie, and Dior. As for the services themselves, the cheerful technicians and their obsession with cleanliness are top-notch.

Tenoverten, multiple locations.

Valley Nails
Dream it up, and chances are good that Valley can make it happen on your nails. Since 2006, this downtown salon has been decorating nails with everything from Degas to Warhol, The Hunger Games to Grumpy Cat — and, if you bring in an inspiration photo, your manicurist will be more than happy to translate it to your nails.

Valley Nails, multiple locations.

Photo: Courtesy of Valley Nails.

Van Court Studio
Looking for something natural and chic downtown? This non-toxic spa is for you. All of Van Court's polish options are five-, seven-, or nine-free (think: LVX, Floss Gloss, Deborah Lippmann, and more) and its creams and oils are natural and often organic. Did we mention that you can book an appointment in your home? Think Seamless for manicures.

Van Court Studio, 90 Water St. (near Gouverneur Lane); 212-509-2222.

Photo: Courtesy of Van Court Studio.

Vanity Projects
It’s not quite a gallery, exactly, but this space is so much more than a nail salon. Here, founder Rita de Alencar Pinto fuses two of her professional interests — fine-art curation and nail art — into a high-concept mani/pedi studio. Video-art installations play on the walls, while the “residency” calendar features a rotating roster of well-known nail artists such as Masako Sasaki and Jessica Washick.

Vanity Projects, 99 Chrystie Street, 2F (between Grand and Hester); 646-410-2928.

Yukie Beauty Spa
A hidden gem just east of Central Park — right above the yellow Serafina awnings, for the uptown natives — Yukie Beauty Spa brings the elegance and sculpture of trendy Japanese nail art to an old-school Fifth Avenue studio, decorated with dark brown leather recliners and low hanging chandeliers. If you're looking to dip your fingers into the world of 3D nail art, this is the place to do it.

Yuki Beauty Spa, 40 East 58th St, 2nd Floor (between Madison and Park Avenues); 212-702‐9660.

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A Horror Makeup Pro Shares 6 Easy Costume Ideas For Halloween

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Whether you blame your jam-packed schedule, or cop to being lazy, no one deserves to be feverishly scrolling though Pinterest at 4 p.m. on Halloween looking for a last-minute costume. This time is meant for indulging in mini candy bars and the waxy goodness of candy corn, not stressing over what to wear. Luckily, this year can be different.

We feel you — in fact, we are you — so we've put together a step-by-step costume makeup guide that’ll give you time to spike your blood sugar in peace and still win best-dressed later. In fact, you can wear anything you want with the costumes ahead (no cat ears needed) and you probably already have the makeup, too.

For help, we tapped horror makeup veteran Valerie Star of Caravan Stylist Studio for all the ins and outs of letting your makeup be your look. Read on to find your costume, plus everything you need to pull it off.

Phantom of the Opera
Difficulty Level: 1

You'll Need:
White lace fabric
Clear eyelash glue
Matte red lip stain
Purple lipstick
Lip gloss

How-To: Start this look with the smoky eye, before applying the lace decal. Using a black pencil eyeliner, smudge the color along the upper and lower lash line. You can add further definition by adding a few coats of mascara or falsies over your eyelashes.

Place the white lace cutout over one side of your face. Secure the lace using clear eyelash glue, squeezing it along the edges of the lace, then pressing the lace down allowing the glue lines to dry.

The lipstick should be the last step, as it is the most intricate. "Start with a matte lip stain in a deep red shade, paint the red color all over the lips. For the ombré effect, apply a thin line of dark purple lipstick along the outer corners of the lips, blurring it into the red," explains Star. For shine, top the look with a clear lipgloss.

Courtesy of Valerie Star

Neon Skeleton
Difficulty Level: 3

You'll Need:
Bright pink eyeshadow
Black eyeshadow
Black pencil eyeliner
White pencil eyeliner

How-To: Start with the smoky black color around the eyes, smudging a black pencil liner along the upper and lower lash line and waterline. Then apply a few coats of mascara for definition.

Using a pigmented cream shadow in hot pink (Star recommends this one by Danessa Myricks, because it will not budge), apply the magenta color at the hairline, blending it along one side of the face and down to the cheekbone. "Once at the cheekbone, etch the color from the top of the ear, following the line of your cheek, curving the edge downward to the corner of your lip," Star instructs. Fill in half of your lip with the shadow, extending it over the lipline, on both the top and bottom contours.

"Use the black pencil to fill in half of the nose, going up into a point at the bridge," Star explains. "Blend the top edge of the black with more of the pink shadow. Lastly, use the pink to paint a few broad-stroke squares down the middle of the neck and a line across the collarbone.

Next, grab the white pencil to trace a thin line directly over the areas you just applied the pink: along the hairline, cheek area, the bridge of the nose, and the neck. "Paint the teeth starting in the middle of the lips bringing the white up to sharp points," says Star.

On the cheek without the skeleton, apply a contour blush for the illusion of a sunken cheekbone. Star's pro tip: A blend of the black and pink eyeshadows makes the perfect contour shade.

Chloe Montfort

David Bowie
Difficulty Level: 1

You'll Need:
Red lipstick
Blue eyeliner

How-To: Applying red lipstick on your face is easy — removing it isn't. To help prevent staining, skip liquid or long-wear formulas and opt for the one in your kit that wears off quickly, or pick up a bullet at the drugstore in a classic, creamy texture.

Start by outlining your lighting bolt shape (a brush will help) beginning at the top left and ending at the base of your right cheek, Star says. Then, after you've made the outline, fill it in. To finish off the look, add the blue liner like you see here. "Let the blue overlap onto the red slightly," Star explains. "This will give a little bit extra dimension to the shape."

Pro tip: You can use a blotting sheet, tissue paper, or a toilet seat cover to blot the red color if the lipstick looks greasy, Star says.

Vampire
Difficulty Level: 2

You'll Need:
Matte black and red eyeshadows
Black and red eyeliners
A small makeup brush

How-To: "Start by applying a dab of foundation or primer on your eyelids," Star says. "While the foundation is still tacky, apply your matte black eyeshadow all across the lid, starting at the lash line and blending upwards towards the natural crease of the lid." Go ahead and pack it on — you want the shadow to be totally opaque.

Then, for even more impact, go over the black with a red pigment. "Start blending the red shadow into the black, fading it out along the crease of the lid," Star says. Line the upper and lower lash line with a black pencil liner and smudge it with a small shadow brush or a clean finger.

To copy these undereye veins, take a small eyeliner or lip brush, dip it into your red lipstick, and draw squiggly lines under the eyes, Star says. To diffuse the look, mix a little black and red shadow on the back of your hand with the same brush and gently apply it over top. To finish, line your lips with the black liner, slick on some red lipstick, and lightly smudge 'em together with your pinky finger.

Comic Book Art
Difficulty Level: 3

You'll Need:
Black liquid liner
White eyeliner
Bright blue eyeshadow
Red matte lipstick

How-To: The success of this look lies in your black liquid liner — it needs to go on smoothly, set fully, and stay in place. Ready? Grab your liner and let's start.

"Outline around the outside of the face, near the hairline," Star instructs. "Create these lines in sections of about three to four inches, working your way all the way around the face." Then, apply a thin line along one side of the bridge of the nose and create a 'C' shape around one nostril. Define your brows and line your lips with the same liner.

Below one eye, use that same liner to outline the shape of a teardrop or two, Star says. "Fill in the teardrop outline with white eyeliner, and then apply blue shadow on top of the white," she says. Blend together using your pinky for dimension.

"Fill in the lips with a matte red lipstick, then use the white liner to highlight a little area on the lower part of the lip and a little area on the upper part of the lip," Star says.

Now it's time to add classic comic book dots. "Create a row of three uniform white dots above the arch of one brow, near the hairline," Star says. Repeat as you see here, going down and across the face, or make your own design, just make sure you keep them even.

Frankenstein
Difficulty Level: 4

You'll Need:
Matte eyeshadow in a dark color
Black liquid liner
Matte red lipstick
White and black eyeliners

How-To: Don't worry — this look only appears to be complicated. Let's start with the stitches: Create dash marks where you'd like your stitches, then draw a small 'X' between each dash. Now add a circle to the end of each point in your 'X' marks. Grab your white liner and lightly outline each 'X'.

To give the stitches a realistic, gory look, "Take a small makeup brush or a Q-tip and rub it in some red lipstick, use a tissue to wipe off the bulk of the red pigment, then apply the excess all around the stitches, blending it outward," Star says. Smudge any excess lipstick under your bottom lash lines.

Blur the harsh lines of your stitches by lightly dusting black shadow over top."Sweep some of the black shadow into the hollows of the cheeks and continue blending it up, above the arch of the brow to the hairline," Star says.

Lastly, Star says to finish the look by outlining your lips with a black pencil liner and filling them in with the red lipstick.

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Victoria’s Secret Is Collaborating With Mary Katrantzou

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Well, it looks like the #VSxBALMAIN movement was successful. Last October, the lingerie giant announced it would be partnering with Olivier Rousteing and company — its first high-fashion collaboration ever — on a 22-piece collection of bras, underwear, lingerie, T-shirts, and bags. Capitalizing on that momentum, Victoria's Secret announced earlier this month that its follow-up designer collaboration would be with the "Queen of Prints," London-based designer Mary Katrantzou.

“Everything that Victoria’s Secret creates is about a woman feeling confident and empowered —and also having fun with what she is wearing,” Katrantzou said in a press release. “This collaboration is going to be bold, fun, and playful." Customers will get their first glance of the pieces during the Victoria Secret Fashion Show in November. Following the event, similar to the pieces Rousteing designed, Katrantzou's offering will be available at select stores and online.

When the collaboration was announced, details were basically nonexistent (you'll have to watch the show for full effect), but Vogue is reporting that Katrantzou worked with Victoria's Secret angels, as well as the show's longtime creative director Sophia Neophitou and executive producer Monica Mitro, to get everything just right. For Katrantzou, that meant pieces that were uplifting and colorful, yet bold and strong. “It’s designed to empower women to have fun with their undergarments and feel free to explore pattern and color as a second skin,” she told Vogue.

The beauty of this collection, she says, is in the duality of the items. “The pieces can be worn as undergarments or as actual clothing so all the fabrications have dual purpose,” she explained. “I wanted to stay true to our brand heritage so pattern and color are integral to the collection but we always kept the Victoria’s Secret girl central to the design process. There’s a nod to silhouettes that we’ve developed in past collections but there are also new silhouettes that we designed with VS in mind.”

Now that we have an idea of who (and who isn't) walking in the show, we just have one question: Who will be wearing the coveted million-dollar bra?

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I Make $105,000 & Change Jobs In Order To Keep Raising My Salary

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In our series My 6-Figure Paycheck , women making more than $100,000 open up about how they got there and what exactly they do. We take a closer look at what it feels like to be a woman making six-figures — when only 5% of American women make that much, according to the U.S. Census w ith the hope it will give women insight into how to better navigate their own career and salary trajectories.

Today, we chat with a 30-year old associate director of social media marketing from New York, NY. Previously, we spoke with a 28-year old associate attorney from Orange County, CA, a 21-year old software engineer from Berkeley, CA and a 31-year old design strategist from Denver, CO.

Job: Associate Director, Social Marketing
Age: 30
Location: New York, NY
Degree: Bachelor's Degree, Public Relations
First Salary: $19,200
Salary: $105,000

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

"At various times, I wanted to be an actress, writer, actor, radio DJ, or lawyer. I loved communications. I would pretend to host my own radio show and would write a 'newspaper' that I delivered to our neighbors. I was passionate about writing and being creative, but couldn't define a set path for myself."

What did you study in college?

"I originally went to college to pursue a journalism degree, but then the recession hit and a professor convinced me to pursue a public relations degree instead. I quickly got bored with my core classes, so my attention wandered and I picked up more classes in digital media, web design and marketing.

"Twitter and YouTube both launched while I was in college, so I became interested in social media. I ended up developing an independent study on the affects of social on traditional communications for honors credit. I graduated with a Bachelor's in public relations, an Independent study on social media, and a Fine Arts minor."

Did you have to take out student loans? If so, how much were they for and how long did it take you to pay them off?

"Oh my god. I definitely had to take out student loans, but my parents handled it entirely, so I didn't know exactly how much. I did receive a partial scholarship and worked part-time jobs throughout college to have spending money, so I was proud about contributing.

"When I graduated from school and got my first job, my mom told me about three loans I had to pay for, which was about $40k in total. Okay, not a big deal. Then two years later after my salary increased, she told me about SIX other loans in my name that I had to pay for, equalling a minimum monthly payment of $1,380, which was an entire paycheck. I also found out my total loan package was $109,000.

"Over the past few years I've been able to pay them down and have about $11k left and a minimum payment under $400, thank goodness."

"The reason why I've had so many jobs is that you normally don't see a huge salary increase or promotion unless you move to a new position."

Have you been working at this job since you graduated college?

"Heck no. I've been working at agencies throughout my entire career, and it can be volatile. I am currently at my sixth job and had about seven internships when I graduated from school. I've worked and interned for various social strategy and social marketing roles throughout my career. I've worked at a few other marketing/communications agencies, a tech startup, and in-house for a brand.

"The reason why I've had so many jobs is that you normally don't see a huge salary increase or promotion unless you move to a new position. I've also worked at places that had to do multiple layoffs or weren't making profits, so I moved on for my own self-preservation.

"I've also had a challenging time trying to get paid what I'm worth. When I graduated from college, I was making less than my market value since it was only a year or two after the recession. I think I've done a good job increasing my salary over the years but I wouldn't mind if I made at least $20k more."

How would you explain your day-to-day role at your job?

"I oversee account, strategy, creative, and analytics teams executing social campaigns and content for a global travel client at a digital agency. I also help with social strategy for new business pitches and other clients, mostly for influencer marketing and social media.

"My day consists of a lot of answering emails, following up with clients to get feedback, reviewing creative work, writing strategies and brainstorming campaigns while overseeing my direct reports. "

Did you negotiate your salary?

"For my current job, I did negotiate my salary. I had done some research through LinkedIn and Glassdoor to understand my worth, and even asked some of my friends who had similar experiences what they were paid for.

"Right from the first phone call, I was firm about what I was looking to make for my next position. When they came back with an offer lower than my range, I called it out and made it firm that I wanted to make more. I also knew they were looking to fill the position quickly, so I knew I had some leverage."

Is your current job your “passion?” If not, what is?

"No. I would love to freelance and developing my own consulting/content development agency helping small, creative businesses set up their social marketing programs. I would also love to pursue painting and writing more (I used to do a lot of freelance writing).

"At one point, I thought about making a switch to work more in arts and culture, even potentially working for the city of New York in their cultural affairs department. I've always wanted to find a way to work in the arts and was somewhat discouraged from doing so when I was younger since my family didn't make enough money. In an ideal world, I'd find a way to freelance to earn a living and then have free time to work on creative collaborations."

If you could, would you change anything in your career trajectory?

"I did make $85,000 at a tech startup that would have given me quarterly bonuses and raises, but then went in-house for a brand that was very culturally and creatively focused where I made $75,000 and got an annual bonus of $10,000.

"While I thought I was pursuing my passion, I ended up working way beyond my role and should have been paid more. I wish I stayed at the tech startup longer until I found that 'dream job' that would at least match my current salary."

What professional advice would you give your younger self?

"Keep up with side hustles and build up an emergency fund early so you have more options in case you're worried about being laid off. Take your time when evaluating new job prospects so you don't dive into something you regret a year later."

Are you a woman under 35 with a six-figure salary and want to tell your story? Submit it here.

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