For bath lovers, soaking in a tub with your favorite bath oils can feel like a slice of paradise. For years, enthusiasts have been sprinkling in coconut oil as a hydrating (and cost efficient) substitute to epson salts. But, as one woman learned last winter, there can be too much of a good thing — and we haven't been able to stop thinking about it since.
It started out innocently enough: Imgur user denshan was feeling sick, tired, and in need of a pick-me-up, so she hopped in a bath and poured in a heavy hand of coconut oil. But once the water drained, she was stuck — literally. Unable to stand, sit, or crawl her way out, she posted to the social account to document the experience.
As you can see, the copious amounts of oil are lining the tub and her legs, making it impossible for her to move. “Went to get out after pulling the plug and I just slide around like a giant greased up potato in a roasting dish," she captioned the post. "There is no traction. No grip. Just me... slipping around covered in oil."
In reality, we all know the struggle of using too much product — and it's easy to go overboard with oils. Luckily, Denshan eventually did make her way out of the tub with a few splashes of water and some heavy-duty soap. We'd be willing to bet she won't be touching a jar of coconut oil for some time.
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It's Saturday night and you're already 30 minutes late to your coworker's holiday party. Unfortunately, you still have half of your makeup to finish. You're at the point where you must decide between two eyeshadow options: a soft bronze or a cool-toned silver.
Most people would choose the former in this situation. It's reliable, easy, and laid-back. It's that ex from your early 20s who never argued about where to eat — but you guys never really argued about anything (now that you think of it) and the relationship was, frankly, kind of boring and predictable.
Silver? Well, silver is your latest Tinder match. There's a high chance of it going horribly wrong and not working out, but it could also end in your next winter love affair. Silver eyeshadow is risky (with any kind of shimmery, micro-glitter you're taking a chance), fun, and almost always draws attention at the party. And tonight, you're going with silver.
If you're ready to get involved in a committed (until further notice) relationship with silver eyeshadow, keep clicking for the best picks that won't make you look like the Tin Man.
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.
Our love for glitter comes and goes, but 2018 was by far the year that the makeup trend re-entered our lives with gusto. From the lids of Emma Stone to Priyanka Chopra, the sparkly stuff was everywhere. This eyeshadow takes the drama of glitter and liquifies it, so it's not only fuss-free to apply, but also lasts hours longer than a loose pigment.
Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow, $24, available at Sephora
The biggest celebrity endorsement for glitter, glitter, and more glitter? Rihanna. Earlier this year, she launched a gray highlighter (yep, gray!) and now is back with a pure platinum sparkle that can be used on your cheekbones, lids, lips... Hell, it can be used all over your body — and we're guessing RiRi would co-sign the suggestion.
Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Diamond Bomb All-Over Diamond Veil, $38, available at Sephora
Ah, a classic. There are few makeup products that exist today that can transport you straight to 1999 — and this is one of them. Although it's available in other retro shades (think: baby pinks and blues), it's this liquid shadow's white-silver hue we enjoy the most. In fact, it's exactly what we imagine Matthew McConaughey meant when he said, "Frost yourself."
Giorgio Armani Beauty Eye Tint Liquid Eyeshadow, $39, available at Sephora
The only way we can justify buying this $50, five-shade palette is because there are three silver shadows that look just as good solo as they do worn together.
Natasha Denona Eyeshadow Palette 7, $48, available at Sephora
Aptly named Shiny Pretty Things, this little eyeshadow from MAC is the quintessential silver. It's warm, but icy; sparkly, but creamy — and, because of this, looks flattering on all skin tones.
MAC Shiny Pretty Things Shadow, $21, available at Ulta Beauty
Looking for a slightly more affordable option? Nyx has you covered with this metallic silver that's so pigmented you can skip the brush and apply it with your fingers.
NYX Professional Makeup Prismatic Eyeshadow, $5.99, available at Ulta Beauty
Add some iridescence to the last pick and you've got L'Oréal's Galaxy Lumière Eyeshadow. It's just the pop of holographic sheen you need to master inner-corner strobing.
L'Oréal Infallible Galaxy Lumiere Holographic Eyeshadow, $12.99, available at Ulta Beauty
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Ivanka's schedule has not been made public, so each week, we will do our best to cover the public events and forums she attends, the meetings she has with lawmakers and government officials, and her social media presence.
Friday, November 30
• Ivanka attended the G20 summit in Argentina.
Important that the #G20Argentina countries recognized and committed to our top pro-growth, people first policies, including in the Communiqué a strong commitment to workforce development and the economic empowerment of women.https://t.co/cFEJdARkptpic.twitter.com/MBD1GfOIXD
• Ivanka outed herself as a fan of the Washington Redskins, who still haven't changed their name to something non-offensive, by retweeting a reporter's game commentary.
• Ivanka joined the Secretaries of Education, Labor, and Commerce in the signing of an agreement with the Swiss government to promote collaboration in workforce development.
• The conservative Washington Examiner published a story praising Ivanka for her work to combat human trafficking.
Tuesday, December 4
• Ivanka has landed a spot on Forbes' World's 100 Most Powerful Women list for the second year in a row, which proves the power of her carefully curated brand.
Wednesday, December 5
• Ivanka attended the funeral of George H.W. Bush (and awkwardly sat next to Chelsea Clinton). In the video below, you can see the interaction between the two, who reportedly used to be friends. In March, Clinton made it clear on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert that those days are over. "I have not spoken to her in a long time," Clinton said. "It’s clear, though, that she has supported policies and decisions that I don’t agree with. I’ve been very vocal about my opposition to President Trump and this White House." It looks like Ivanka's doing all the talking here.
• An increasing number of parents are naming their baby girls "Ivanka" and "Melania," according to Social Security Administration records. "Ivanka is a much more distinctive and much less intrinsically likable name [than Melania]: That 'ank' syllable is not very attractive," Pamela Redmond Satran, author and cofounder of Nameberry.com, told Refinery29. "Figuratively, at this point there's still only one Ivanka — just like there's only one Kanye, one Barack, one Madonna — no matter how many other people get the name."
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Knock on wood, but it's been years since the TSA has seized one of our bulging makeup bags or an airline has lost our dopp kits. It's not that either entity has become more forgiving about what we can take on a plane or more efficient about handling our gear. We've simply learned a few things along the way: N ever place prized beauty products inside anything other than a carry-on and always make sure you have appropriate housing for what shockingly adds up to thousands of dollars in goods.
We've probably just jinxed the whole thing by acknowledging our good fortune, but the truth is that having the right makeup bag isn't just about being able to whip out a separate pouch at security. It's all about knowing what kind of person you are, and how many designated compartments you need to keep yourself from leaving a Tom Ford lipstick behind at a hotel (again).
Before holiday travel gets any more harried, check out the best options for keeping your beauty shit together in the slides ahead.
Best For: The Neat Freak
Liquid foundations, jelly highlighters, goopy lip glosses — makeup is messy stuff. This vegan, quilted poly case — which is water resistant, machine washable, and has a wipeable interior — is made to look good, even in the wake of spills and loose lipstick lids. It's also engineered with sturdy, extra-wide zippers, RFID cloaking to protect from identity theft, and can be adorned with cheeky statement badges that adhere with a blast from your hair dryer.
Oliver Thomas Not A Trainwreck Case, $55, available at Oliver Thomas
Best For: The Frequent Flyer
Short of boasting its own set of wheels, this marbled makeup case does everything your favorite full-sized suitcase can: A hard shell protects its contents from aggro handling, interior zippered compartments keep everything snuggly in place, the elastic strap slings around the handle of your wheeled carry on, and a detachable strap allows you to carry the whole thing like a laptop bag. The endgame: Never having to mourn a missing makeup bag due to lost baggage again.
Calpak Calpak Vanity Case, $75, available at Calpak
Best For: The Pragmatist
Most makeup bags are built with compartments for compacts, pencils, and bullets. Others are designed to house brushes. Unfortunately, few are designed to accommodate both. Leave it to Sephora to split the difference: A panel devoted to makeup brush storage features elastic straps to house any sized handle while zippered pockets keep compacts and palettes in place. There's even a soft wedge pouch to contain everything else without the extra bulk that can come from more structured cases.
Sephora Collection Sephora Collection Fold-Out Organizer, $28, available at Sephora
Best For: The Minimalist
Glossier has been hooking customers up with these souped-up Ziplocs since day one — and over the years, we've repurposed them for just about everything. Now, beginning December 10 and after a long hiatus, the chic little cases will once again be sold on the brand's site, a la carte.
At $6, the set of two medium-sized pouches aren't just affordable, they're the perfect catch-all for the less-is-more set. The cloudy, quart-sized numbers provide plenty of room for all the GRWM essentials (like lip balm, eyeliner, concealer, and a vape pen) and just enough visibility to see what you're reaching for, without advertising exactly what's inside.
Glossier Glossier Medium Pink Pouch, $6, available at Glossier
Best For: The Scatterbrain
We've become absolute pros at leaving at least one thing in the bathroom when checking out of a hotel room. Or, we used to be. Now, we rely on hanging makeup bags to keep everything in its place. Because its inside pouches are clear, this case acts more like a bathroom shelf while dangling from a door hook; we can see every inch of what we packed, without having to dig through an entire bag just to get to a skinny eye pencil. The pouches snap out and easily slip into our day bags, not that we mind taking the whole thing with us.
ban.do Getaway Travel Organizer in Field Day, $35, available at ban.do
Best For: The Maximalist
Take a look at any pro artist's kit: Like makeup matryoshka, you'll find bags in bags in bags, because the multi-pouch system offers the best way to stay organized. This four-piece kit is stocked with a wide pencil case, a soft round-top case (for lipsticks, foundations, bronzers, and highlighters), and a large zippered pouch for palettes and wipes. All of those nest in a clear weekender case, ensuring there's a proper place for everything but the bathroom sink.
Sonia Kashuk Sonia Kashuk™ 4pc Makeup Bag Set, $34.99, available at Target
Best For: The Trendsetter
Makeup artist Daniel Martin is turning out some of the most sophisticated looks this year, and we're not just talking about Meghan Markle's wedding makeup. The pro also co-designed this timeless leather makeup case, made with a secondary pouch that neatly nestles inside an exterior pocket and can be monogrammed or embossed with gold foil hearts, stars, or clovers. As if that weren't smart enough, Martin is donating all of his partnership proceeds to the nonprofit H.E.A.R.T., which helps provide support to survivors of abuse and neglect, something that Cuyana will match in full.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez catapulted into the nation's consciousness this past summer after pulling off one of the most major election upsets in recent political history — and she's lived rent-free in all of our minds since then. Progressives adore her, right-wingers hate her, and everyone in between still follows her every movement.
"Her gestures show that she's trustworthy and honest. When identifying integrity or deception in a statement, you look for when the gesture occurs. When someone is being authentic, they gesture just before or at the moment of their statement," Wood said, pointing out at how Ocasio-Cortez gestures to emphasize the key points of her platform during speeches and other talks. "She does that, over and over again. What happens in your primitive brain is that you trust, you believe, because it's in sync. It almost musical, it makes you feel good to watch her."
Wood also said that the way Ocasio-Cortez speaks (in the 29-year-old's own words, "like a girl from the block ") also makes her constituency feel closer to her. "She often uses very casual or colloquial language like 'yeah,' which would identify her with her constituency and signals 'she's like us,'" Wood said. "Until recently that was unusual, but the Trump presidency changed that." And unlike other women lawmakers, who historically have exerted control over their expressions in an effort to avoid sexist criticism, Ocasio-Cortez is part of a crop of millennial lawmakers that don't shy away from tapping into their personalities.
That idea of connecting and being real seems to be one of the reasons why Ocasio-Cortez has given her followers a look into that Congress Life™ via her social media posts, specifically Instagram Stories. Wood said it was interesting that the congresswoman-elect has allowed her constituents a peek of different parts of her life. "She has allowed herself to be seen on different levels of attractiveness or formality. She doesn't have the need to brand [herself]," Wood said. "She's telling us 'I'm showing you who I am at all times.' It's interesting, because it's unusual. For most of celebrities, their brand is a mask for them. Ocasio-Cortez doesn't have that."
When asked about her overall impression of Ocasio-Cortez's body language, Wood said it was easy to understand why she has become a political rising star. "She feels strongly about particular issues. She's not faking her passion," Wood said. "And truly she doesn't seem to need a facade to have her confidence."
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Everyone has their favorites, including the Recording Academy. But this year the snubs flew fast and furious for some of our favorites, seemingly the the name of making room for some new blood. After the 2018 Grammy Awards, the Recording Academy has seen a lot of internal shifts, with their chairman Neil Portnow, who faced massive criticism for the underrepresetation of women in the telecast, stepped down. The Academy also started a Diversity and Inclusion Task Force, led by Tina Tchin, to help increase visibility for underrepresented communities. The snubs in the 2019 Grammy nominations to some degree reflect those shifts, making way for first-time nominations in the big four categories (Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Record of the Year, and Artist of the Year) for underrepresented communities.
The biggest snub of all went to Grammy darling Taylor Swift, who has taken home the Album of the Year award twice, one of only two women to do so. Her album reputation was eligible this year, but failed to secure any nominations in the top categories. Instead, the Academy saw fit to relegate her to a nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album. And...that's it.
There was also a major snub of Ariana Grande, who was nominated again in the Best Pop Solo category for "God Is A Woman." She was nominated in 2017 for "Dangerous Woman," but did not win. Many expected Grande, who has had the most successful release of her career by every metric with sweetner, to dominate the top categories. Instead, the Academy's voters have opted to shift away from female pop artists entirely. Normally there would be an equivalent artist whose slot she would fit into, but the closest similar artist is different by a mile: Zedd and Marin Morris's "The Middle." Grande is also nominated for Best Pop Vocal album.
On the face of it, Nicki Minaj has been snubbed to a lesser degree by the Academy. She is not nominated at all for Queen, and in the past she has been nominated for all of her albums even if it was in the pop or rap/hip hop categories and not at the top of the ballot (and she has never won). Her shutout is a much bigger snub this year, however, because of the nominations of her (maybe?) nemesis Cardi B, who received first time nominations for Record of the Year, Album of the Year, and Best Rap Album. Nicki has stoked the flames of an on again/off again feud with Cardi all year and she undoubtedly knows that these nominations are the Academy taking the baton of top woman in rap from Nicki and handing it to Cardi.
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Ariana Grande is officially Billboard' s Woman of the Year, and reminded everyone exactly why she deserved the honor with a raw and emotional speech that brought most of the audience, including Grande, to tears. After Billboard 's Women in Music awards wrapped, the record-breaking singer celebrated the one way she knows best: with family, friends, and tattoos.
Just a few hours after the show, Grande posted a photo on Instagram that shows her brand-new tattoo: a lively moon and cluster of stars on the top of her hand, created by her go-to artist Mira Mariah. (Mariah is the same tattoo artist who gave Grande her worker bee and Spirited Away tattoos.)
Despite the fact that this might be her biggest tattoo yet, it's still no surprise Grande chose this lunar design in particular: History tells us she's been a fan since she got a crescent moon tattooed behind her ear in 2015 and a similar, but smaller set of cosmic shapes on her foot this November.
Within seconds though, Ari's tattoo was old news, thanks to Marjorie, Grande's grandmother (a.k.a. Nonna). Apparently feeling left out of the festivities, Nonna decided to get her first tattoo — on her finger — and Grande recorded the entire process on her stories.
If getting inked at 3 a.m. on perhaps one of the most painful spots on the body — at 93 years old — isn't badass, then we don't know what is. And in true IDGAF form, Nonna didn't even flinch. In one video, Grande asks her grandmother, "How're you feeling?" Nonna looks at the camera and shrugs, "I feel fine," then adds, "I've had a little bit more excitement than this."
In a string of more videos, Grande reveals the final tattoo on the inside of Nonna's left ring finger that reads, "Ciccio," an Italian translation of Frank (short for Francesco), the name of her late husband. Clearly, couple tattoos run in the family.
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What are your goals for 2019? To dream big, do more, and actually achieve your resolutions? We've got a planner for that. Or maybe it's just to keep all your dental appointments and brunch dates corralled in one fly notebook? We've got a planner for that, too.
We've scoured the internet far and wide (and even consulted a few calendar junkies) to find the BEST daily, weekly, and monthly organizers to get you through the New Year. Whether you want to plan out every hour of the next few months or just have a place to jot down to-dos, we've found a planner for you. Oh, and for those of you just starting out your organizational journey, we have some undated options as well, meaning you can start and stop whenever you want — no blank pages left behind.
Ahead, planners that make being organized easy, fun, and stylish.
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.
The secret to a streamlined schedule? A très chic agenda.
Clare V. Linen 2019 12-Month Planner, $38.4, available at Anthropologie
This Amazon's Choice purchase is a best-selling planner that takes a scientific approach towards increased productivity and happiness within its layout.
Panda Planner Daily Planner, $24.97, available at Amazon
Looking to organize your life down to the very day? This is the planner for you.
The daily layout includes dedicated boxes for tracking meals, exercises, to-dos, and nightly reflection. Our favorite part? Every day has a motivational quote from our favorite muses, like Shonda Rhimes and Maya Angelou.
The Happiness Planner The Happiness Planner® | Jan-Dec '19 | Daily, $59, available at The Happiness Planner
Getting your life organized doesn't have to be dull.
Leuchtturm 1917 Weekly Planner and Notebook 2019 , $22.95, available at Leuchtturm 1917
This ban.do agenda keeps you organized, while letting everyone around you know that you're VERY BUSY.
Bando Rough Draft Mini Spiral Notebook, $12, available at Amazon
For the minimalist — this lightweight year task-planner comes simply yet chicly designed in a charcoal-textured gray.
Appointed 2019 Year Task Planner, $38, available at Need Supply Co
Is planning easier if we trick ourselves into thinking we're actually gardening? Either way, this notebook is very pretty.
Urban Outfitters Patterned Daily Planner Journal, $20, available at Urban Outfitters
A very chic addition to your desk vignette that also happens to help you keep your whole life organized.
Blue Sky "Banana Leaves" 2019 Desk Calendar, $45, available at Blue Sky
There is no project too big or too complicated for this mighty project planner. The undated format breaks down into four sections: yearly plan, monthly plan, weekly plan, and project plan. In total, you can plan 100 projects within its 160 pages. Side hustles, here you come!
Poketo Project Planner in Clay, $38, available at Poketo
Jot down notes, plans of action, and day-to-day tasks in a classic and simplistic style.
ink+volt 2019 Planner – Limited Edition Series, $45, available at ink+volt
For the more creative type, this planner features colorful weekly vertical layouts and monthly vision boards. Plus, the hardcover and thin coiled design make it easy to tote around — no matter where the inspiration takes you.
Bloom Daily Planners 2019 Vision Planner & Calendar, Marble, $28.95, available at Bloom Daily Planners
The rainbow-embossed cover of this planner sends a clear message: You mean business in 2019 — this heavy duty planner has inspirational quotes inside to boot.
ban.do 2019 large 12-month annual planner , $32, available at ban.do
Calling all students! This planner is perfect for keeping your classes, short-term assignments, and long-term projects organized. (Pro-tip: It has a ringed binding so you can refill the pages as you knock out your work over the course of the year.)
kikki.K 18-Month Leather Perpetual Planner, $59.95, available at Nordstrom
A very elegant textured agenda so you can keep track of all your weddings, meetings, birthdays, and happy hours.
Anthropologie Mila 2018-2019 Planner, $24, available at Anthropologie
This little black book gives you a plan for getting your shit together every day, week, and month of the year.
Simple Planners Get Shit Done 2019 Daily Planner, $8.36, available at Amazon
This soft leather planner is perfect for long-term brainstorming.
Gallery Leather LEATHER LARGE MONTHLY PLANNER, $24, available at Gallery Leather
Nicole Miller 2019 Weekly & Monthly Planner, $14.99, available at Amazon
You may have heard a person or two talk about this so called "life planner." We're here to tell you: it's worth all the hype.
The planner comes in three layout options (horizontal, vertical, and hourly), two layout colorways, three coil colors, optional monogramming, and endless cover options. Our favorite part: all the bells and whistles easily attach to the coils so you can organize every part of your life right down to what you're making for dinner or what you're packing for vacation.
Erin Condren luxe permanent - LifePlanner™, $65, available at Erin Condren
Never forget another to-do with this planner featuring a punchy, gold-foiled and energetic design.
ban.do 2018-2019 Moonstone Orange Planner, $15.71, available at Paper Source
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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.
Today: a consultant working in healthcare who makes $71,000 per year ($149,000 when combined with her husband) and spends some of her money this week on tickets to see The Grinch.
Occupation: Consultant Industry: Healthcare Age: 27 Location: Charlottesville, VA My Salary: $71,000 My Husband's Salary: $78,000 My Paycheck Amount (Biweekly): $2,073.48 My Husband's Paycheck Amount (Biweekly): $2,274.75
Monthly Expenses Rent: $1,235 (for a TINY one-bedroom apartment) Student Loan Payment: $500.18 ($362.50 for mine, the rest are his) Car Loans: $650 Hulu: $12 Netflix: $11 Playstation VUE Streaming Service: $45 Internet: $50 XM Radio: $14 Billie Razor Subscription: $9 every other month Utilities: around $100 Health, Dental & Life Insurance: $151.98 (each; taken out of our paychecks) Car Insurance: $138.86 Rental Insurance: $14.75 Phones: $75 Pets: $130 (for food/treats/occasional days at daycare) Storage Unit: $125 (We moved from a 2,200-square-foot house to a 649-square-foot apartment, so most of our stuff is in storage or really weird places in our apartment.) Savings: We're trying to save around $4,000 a month right now since we just moved from North Carolina. We sold our house and made $50,000 a few months ago, and we're trying to save to about $25,000 more before our closing date in the spring on the house we're building. Retirement: We're not putting money into the 401(k) while we save for a few months, but then we'll go back to contributing. Our company puts in 1% right now.
Day One
7 a.m. — Alarm was set for 6 a.m., but of course I'm not up until 7. I don't know why I keep pretending I'm going to wake up from that alarm. I washed my hair last night so I don't have to do much today — I put on makeup, run a straightener through my already straight hair just to get out some weird kinks, and I'm out the door. (My husband gets up earlier and takes care of the dog.) On the way to work, I reload my Starbucks card ($10) and order a toasted white chocolate mocha. $10
12:30 p.m. — I didn't make anything for lunch today, so I run down the street to Chick-Fil-A. $7.86
1 p.m. — As I'm eating lunch, my friend and I nail down plans to see the new Grinch movie tomorrow night. I grab the tickets ($16) and she Venmos me $8 for hers! $8
4:40 p.m. — On Mondays I work at a local barre studio (checking people in, cleaning up after class) so that I can take the class for free. I head out of work at 4:40 so I have time to get changed before people arrive. Then I take the free class, and after I'm done cleaning the studio and chatting with some of the teachers, I get home to find my new Google Pixel 3 has arrived! We ordered new phones on Black Friday ($400 off original price!), so I've been waiting impatiently for three whole days. I make dinner from groceries bought over the weekend, and we watch SNL since we weren't able to watch it yesterday.
Daily Total: $25.86
Day Two
7 a.m. — Dry shampoo, makeup, and I'm out the door to Starbucks because I have a free reward today! Large Toasted White Chocolate Mocha it is.
12 p.m. — On my lunch break, I run to Target for some Christmas items for my office (tree, ornaments, star, tree skirt) and pantry items (spices, bread, tomato soup) since my husband is home sick and craving comfort food. All of it comes out to $71 — a great deal, since the tree was originally $45 but I got it for $17.50! For lunch, I have leftover chicken soup from last night's dinner. $71
5:30 p.m. — After work, I drag my friend to a cardio barre class before we head off to see The Grinch. It's her first time doing barre, and she likes it! At the theater, we order popcorn and loaded cheese fries to split because Alamo has the best snacks ($21), and I get a soda as well ($5). She Venmos me $11 for the food. While we're at the movies, our husbands play video games together with beer and pizza. My husband pays for the frozen pizza ($8). $23
9 p.m. — I get an email saying Shutterfly's Cyber Monday deal has been extended, and since I forgot to order our Christmas cards yesterday, I quickly add them to the cart and take advantage of the deal. I order over $120 worth of cards and only pay $69 with free shipping! $69.72
Daily Total: $163.72
Day Three
10:30 a.m. — I have a meeting on a different side of town. After, I stop for a biscuit on the way to my office ($4.83) before walking into back-to-back meetings. $4.83
2 p.m. — I have leftovers from Monday's dinner.
5:30 p.m. — Since we're new to town, I've been trying really hard to make new friends quickly so it starts to feel like home here. Tonight, I have a friend date at a local coffee shop near our apartment. If I drink coffee too late, I'll toss and turn all night, so I have a delicious caramel spiced cider ($4.20). Thankfully, we really hit it off, and we're already making more plans to hang out. Thanks, BumbleBFF! When I get home, I quickly make my favorite lazy but healthy dinner — Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi with their frozen turkey bolognese sauce. And I have some Cheez-Its. $4.20
Daily Total: $9.03
Day Four
6:30 a.m. — It's hair washing day, which means I run out of time to make coffee at home, and end up reloading my Starbucks card to cover my coffee. $10
11:45 a.m. — Run to Target with a coworker to pick up a couple things for our charity gift basket and Shout stain remover wipes since I spilled coffee on my white pants today. $13.21
1 p.m. — I grab lunch from a cafe because I left my cauliflower gnocchi in the fridge at home. Turns out my husband did the exact same thing an hour before me. Oh yeah, we work for the same company. Thankfully, we don't see each other too often during the day. We do occasionally grab lunch together, but we try to keep things separate. $14.84
5:30 p.m. — My barre class for tonight was cancelled, so I stop by the library to pick up books and head home. I currently have eight books checked out, so I've got to get a few read this weekend. (I'm an aggressively fast reader and have read 49 books this year.) Once I'm home, I make some lemon chicken pasta with snowflake-shaped noodles from Trader Joe's (because the little things excite me), and we catch up on our shows since this is my only free night this week!
Daily Total: $38.05
Day Five
8:30 a.m. — Oh look, Starbucks again. OOPS. At least this is covered with the reload from earlier in the week. If I could just stick to black coffee and no breakfast, I would save a little more.
12 p.m. — Good lord, I am at Target again to get wrapping paper since I want to get all our gifts wrapped and under the tree! Originally we were supposed to head up to D.C. for the weekend to do holiday activities, but my husband has a horrible cough that is exacerbated by the cold, and the weather is going to be gross and rainy, so we postponed our trip. Thankfully, I have gift cards from Black Friday purchases, so it's $0 for today's Target haul! I swear I don't go to Target this much except at Christmastime. Lunch today is a frozen meal I had in the work freezer that I forgot about until today when the "we're cleaning out the fridge today" email went out.
5:30 p.m. — My barre studio just added a Friday afternoon class, and I missed Thursday's workout, so I head over after work (Wednesday and Friday are usually my rest days). After class, my husband and our friends met me downtown for our town's Christmas tree lighting. Once the tree is lit, we head over to our favorite Mexican restaurant. Chimichanga for me, quesadilla and a margarita for my husband, and we split cheese dip! We have a coupon, so our total comes out to $34.61 with tip. $34.61
Daily Total: $34.61
Day Six
10 a.m. — If we're in town, I start my Saturdays off with cardio barre before running errands. Today's errand is returning some stuff (-$28.41) and picking up spiked sparkling water, Coke Zero, and two boxes of Chai concentrate ($22.26). So technically, I made money on this transaction, right? My second stop is my weekly Trader Joe's haul, where I pick up food for the week through Saturday and chili for dinner tonight at our friend's place. For tonight: ground beef, cheddar cheese, guacamole, corn chips, tortilla chips, and tomato paste. For the rest of the week: chicken breasts, milk, Parmesan cheese, frozen cheese bites, tuna, pork chops, cauliflower latkes, and Greek yogurt. $72.75
1 p.m. — When I get home, my husband makes us grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup while we watch some Christmas baking shows and he cleans and does laundry. (There are very few things he can cook, and grilled cheese is one of them, so I always leave that to him!)
4 p.m. — We head over to our friend's apartment to sadly watch the Dawgs lose to Alabama. We devour the chili I whipped up in my Instant Pot, decorate Christmas cookies from a kit I picked up last week at Trader Joe's, and play some games to end the night.
Daily Total: $72.75
Day Seven
9:30 a.m. — Today is lazy. I wake up early and make caramel apple cider from groceries we already have and start my 50th book of the year by our Christmas tree. Once my husband gets up, we have cauliflower latkes for breakfast while catching up on SNL like we do almost every Sunday morning. Then I nap on the couch before doing a TON of laundry and watching Netflix Christmas movies.
1 p.m. — For lunch, my husband makes another round of grilled cheese and soup, since the bread is about to expire. We take the dog for a long walk through our new neighborhood to check out the progress, since they just broke ground on our house this week!
7 p.m. — After our walk, I finish cleaning up and make a chicken stew in the Instant Pot for tonight's dinner plus a few lunches this week. We finish out the night watching How The Grinch Stole Christmas. (Yes, I've watched both Grinch movies this week, and I feel no shame about it.)
Daily Total: $0
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Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.
Update: Thank you for all of your amazing input in the comments. We've since updated our story with a few popular options.
This article was originally published on October 31, 2018.
Black leggings, divisive as they are, have undeniably become a fashion staple. So much so, there are brands (apart from LulaRoe) dedicated to delivering the "perfect" legging. But with the range of styles out there — cropped, not cropped, high-rise, mid-rise, faux leather, moto style, performance, loungewear — choosing which ones are right for you takes some thought.
Like with most things, turning to the internet is your best bet when you need to comb through the infinite options available. We've curated a roundup of the top-reviewed black leggings across the world wide web. Covering everything from the best budget leggings to leggings you can wear to work (yep), this list is bound to help you find your black leggings OTP. Click through to see which leggings come out on top.
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.
The Essential Legging Few legging brands see as much public praise as Zella. The Live In high-waist leggings tout moisture-wicking technology great for running at the gym or running errands.
The hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 5,416 reviews on Nordstrom
What they're saying: "These leggings really live up to their "live in" name. They are so comfortable, I didn't want to take them off! (I actually wore them two days in a row.) The material is super buttery soft and thicker so you don't have to worry about underwear showing through. Also, the little pocket in the front is perfect for keys, smaller phones (no Iphone7 plus), cash—basically anything you don't want to/can't carry. I have heard complaints about them being too hot, but I have worn them in 90+ degree weather and didn't feel like they were uncomfortable or unbearably hot. They are super durable and I am sure they will last me a long time." - BRD975, Nordstrom Review
Zella Live In High Waist Leggings, $54, available at Nordstrom
The "Leggings Are Pants" Legging Uniqlo rarely lets us down when it comes to functional clothing. These deceptive leggings look like a pair of legitimate pants on the outside, but feel like a pair of leggings on the inside.
The hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 135 reviews on Uniqlo
What they're saying: "I literally live in these. I have them in several colours and prints, full length and cropped versions. They are not as thin as usual leggings, what makes them appropriate for work. Very versatile from day to night, from winter to summer. Who needs jeans when you can have a black version of these going with everything. LOVE THEM." - SK18, Uniqlo Review
Uniqlo Leggings Pants, $19.89, available at Uniqlo
The Best Budget Legging Ballin' on a budget? These under $15 leggings on Amazon come with a plethora of rave reviews.
The hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 7,924 reviews on Amazon
What they're saying: "Soft, comfortable, flattering, and long-leg-friendly. I am 6'0" and medium build with a 34" inseam and these hit right at the top of my ankle bone—a very satisfactory and versatile length for a legging. The fit is sleek in a good way, hugging curves without being either too-tight and revealing or too loose and baggy. I have the black color and it is dark and opaque enough to wear a more cropped shirt with if desired. No see-through sections at all. The waist is high, hitting right at my natural waistline. I'm partial to a high waist (and this is the point in the review where I out myself as a mom of 5), but if you want a lower rise these may not be the leggings for you. Overall, I am very happy with these and would consider ordering additional pairs or colors. They replaced a pair of dying big box store leggings and totally blew them out of the water in fit and quality, at the same price point!" - Munchasaurus, Amazon Review
Leggings Depot Basic Solid Leggings, $10.99, available at Amazon
The Performance Legging When you're in need of actual "workout" leggings, turn to these. This performance pair comes with a high-waist and a nifty little side pocket to hold your cell phone in.
The hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 499 reviews on Target
What they're saying: "This is a great tall girl legging option which other tall girls will know, are extremely hard to find. I am 6 ft, size 6 sometimes 8, and mediums are actually long enough and fit great. I bought 2 pairs and went back for 3 more because long leggings at such a reasonable price point is so rare. I use them mostly for lifting and cardio, but also prefer them to any other leggings for travel. The pocket is a huge plus, perfect size for an iPhone to listen to your music by Bluetooth while lifting. Please never discontinue these Target, its so hard for us tall girls to find leggings long enough, let alone ones that will hold up over time." - bcsideout, Target Review
C9 Champion Training High-waisted Leggings, $29.99, available at Target
The Work Appropriate Legging Leggings to work? 500 Everlane reviewers say, "Yes!" These stretchy, yet structured, leggings are just the trick to feeling comfortable during your 9-to-5.
The hype: 4.45 out of 5 stars and 500 reviews on Everlane
What they're saying: "I bought these in black a few months ago and just bought them in green and blue as well. They are the perfect work pant — stretchy, wrinkle free, and comfortable! The side zip makes untucked shirts lay smoothly, and the elastic waistband gives you versatility if you do want to tuck your shirt... I've never been happier with a work pant!" - Katharine M, Everlane Review
Everlane The Work Pant, $50, available at Everlane
The Classic Athleisure Legging These best selling leggings are almost ubiquitous within the leggings fan community. To achieve the true athleisure look, opt for this classic Adidas pair.
The hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 2,126 reviews on Adidas
What they're saying: "Bold leggings that fit perfectly, don't get a size too small if you're between two. Always go for the larger one! They look great and I can't wait to wear them with my superstars" - Auorora, Adidas Review
Adidas 3-stripes Leggings, $40, available at Adidas
The Lounge Legging Looking for a pair of leggings that are as basic as they come? Look no further. This tried and true Gap pair will have you buying more than one so you can keep them in constant rotation.
The hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 235 reviews on Gap
What they're saying: "I own 5 pairs of these. Two are in constant rotation and three are back ups because I'm afraid Gap will stop making them. They are quite long which is no problem because I always wear them inside boots. I find they fit large overall side I sized down. I take care not to wash them with anything cotton or light colored, and I *try* to hang them to dry after putting them through the machine. They are holding up very well. I highly recommend them as a basic sytle [sic] but really good legging." - MsdotQ, Gap Review
The "One Size Fits All" Legging This pair comes in only two sizes and a whole host of positive reviews. You can choose from the regular size which fits sizes 0 through 12, or the plus size which fits sizes 14 through 24.
The hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 3,766 reviews on Amazon
What they're saying: "I think after purchasing 6 pairs of these it’s time to offer some feedback on them. These leggings are amazing!!! I held off on trying them for such a long time and wish I would of gotten them sooner!! They are soft and feel great. Even better than the ones ppl sell on Facebook!! Some ppl don’t like the waistband but their yoga leggings have the wide waistband made of fabric is the elastic one is not your thing. They hold up well even after several washes. I never got a defective pair and I own 6 so far. Most are solid colored ones. I haven’t gotten random holes in them. They even withstood my kittens digging their nails into them. Which for me is the ultimate test LOL. Seriously though, they’re inexpensive, fit great (I got the regular fit not plus) and have a huge selection of colors and prints to choose from. For reference I have thick legs and thighs and usually wear M or L (depending on manufacturers) leggings. I’ve recommended these to a lit if ppl on social media and they all loved them..." - LC78, Amazon Review
Viv Collection Soft Leggings, $13.99, available at Amazon
The Luxury Legging Who said leggings couldn't be luxurious? The Takara legging comes in a glossy liquid finish for that perfect model-off-duty look.
The hype: 4.59 out of 5 stars and 312 reviews on Carbon38
What they're saying: "These leggings are amazing! I am so happy I finally found a style/size that fit amazing (I'm 5'6, 125lb, and the XS fits perfectly). I tried the High-Waist Takara Leggings in two different sizes and the waistband on that style is way too uncomfortable and high, regardless of size. The regular Takara Leggings have a fairly high waistband with a super flattering and comfortable fit anyway, which makes these are the perfect leggings for working out and wearing around town!" - Jackie, Carbon38 Review
Carbon38 Takara Leggings, $98, available at Carbon38
The Going Out Legging If you're of the "ride or die" variety when it comes to leggings, then you'll know they don't have to be reserved for just the day time. These faux leather leggings are your Friday nights' new best friend.
The hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 1,770 reviews on Nordstrom
What they're saying: "I’ve been looking at these leggings for over a year! I wanted them but wasn’t sure I could justify the cost for “leggings”... seriously, don’t even think twice! They are amazing!! The can be dressed up or down so easily! they are so comfortable and really do compress/smooth in the right places!!! I immediately ordered the motto [sic] style the day these came because I love them so much! I am 5’5” 140lbs and ordered a medium! They fit great!" - Harlihol, Nordstrom Review
SPANX Faux Leather Leggings, $98, available at Nordstrom
The Basic Legging Comfort is key. And that's exactly how these reviewers on Zappos feel about this classic pair from Hue.
The hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 132 reviews on Zappos
What they're saying: "Pretty much the gold standard in "basic" leggings. These are TOTALLY opaque (nobody's gonna see your underwear or anything else, even if you're bending down etc.), extremely comfortable (you might as well be wearing pajama pants, they're truly that comfy), and the wide waistband is a godsend to all of us, let's be honest!...I feel like the waistband needs to be talked about, because I've worn other brands with wide waistbands that don't work well for me (the waistband rolls down, doesn't stay where it's supposed to, is placed/sits at an odd length, etc.). None of those problems with these! You put that waistband right where you want it and it's gonna stay there and hold you in and it will not ride up or down!...And you can wear these with ANYTHING! Casual with t-shirts, I wear them at work with blouses and blazers, tunics, underneath dresses or skirts, at the gym, as pajamas (I do, they're so comfy!)..." - Anonymous, Zappos Review
HUE Ultra Leggings w/ Wide Waistband, $36, available at Zappos
The "So Good It Launched An Entire Brand" Legging Girlfriend Collective may have only launched in 2017, but thanks to these comfortable leggings made from recycled plastic bottles, it's already gained a cult following.
The hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 340 reviews on Girlfriend Collective
What they're saying: "I saw the reviews too. I was sceptical (sp) too. I thought “they’re just a pair of leggings, why are people so obsessed?” too. But they are. They really are just the best leggings. They have the perfect amount of compression - enough to keep you together but not a battle to get in to. They’re the perfect rise. They don’t go sheer. They don’t pill. They just work so well. I don’t even notice I’ve sweat in these. I love." - Madeline G., Girlfriend Collective Review
Girlfriend Collective Black Compressive High-rise Legging, $68, available at Girlfriend Collective
The Super Soft Legging If you're looking for leggings that are equally soft and stretchy, look no further.
The hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 503 reviews on Lou & Grey
What they're saying: "It’s hard for me to find leggings that fit me well because I’m short and petite. I’ve been holding off on buying leggings for months because they all are too long and too big. My LOFT leggings, however, fit just perfectly. They’re the appropriate length for me and hug me just right. My friends, who are taller than I am, bought some in a different size and theirs look good on them too. The leggings are also extremely versatile. I wear them to exercise and I can dress them up with a nice blouse." - Court1982, Lou & Grey Review
Lou & Grey Essential Leggings, $24.5, available at Lou & Grey
The Popular Legging Lululemon can take a good chunk of credit for kickstarting the athleisure trend. While not the most popular leggings from the brand, this pair has seen the most consistent positive reviews.
The hype: 3.2 out of 5 stars and 960 reviews on Lululemon
What they're saying: "The Fast and Free tights are hands down my favorite and best tights Lululemon has to offer. The tights have a moderate compression around the waistband and has a adjustable waist string to tighten during your runs. They are light weight and feel like a second skin. I wear these tights for yoga, strength and conditioning, everyday wear, and for running. The side pocket is a great feature especially when running to hold your phone. I am 5'2 and the length of the tights fit me perfectly so I don't have to get them hemmed. My only complaint about these tights is that darker colors will fade slightly and the light sheen will fade, but other than that I would recommend these tights to everyone." - Shavasanaallday, Lululemon Review
lululemon Fast & Free 7/8 Tight II Nulux 25", $128, available at lululemon
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While we like to think of winter as a time filled with nothing but guilt-free, cozy TV show binges on the couch with a mug of hot chocolate, reality is a little more hectic than that: Between end-of-the-year projects at work, holiday shopping, and visitors seemingly rolling in every weekend, we have our hands pretty full. That's why it's important to slow down and focus our attention on all the important relationships in our lives: our significant others, our close friends, and our families.
So for this episode of Try Living With Lucie, Lucie Fink decided to do exactly that. For five days, Lucie left all the craziness of the holiday season behind and rounded up her loved ones for a week of unique date nights. Watch above to see it all go down, and get ready to steal a few ideas for your own winter dates — from making Ocean Spray ® Pink Lite Cranberry cocktails and homemade pasta to spending a night "camping" at home.
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Whoever makes the seating arrangements for state funerals certainly showed their sense of humor by putting former friends Chelsea Clinton and Ivanka Trump right next to each other on Wednesday. Or did they really choose to sit together at George H.W. Bush's funeral?
The two, who have many of the obvious things in common — unintentional fame, for one thing — used to be friends. In a 2015 Vogue interview, Chelsea actually praised Ivanka: "She’s always aware of everyone around her and ensuring that everyone is enjoying the moment. It’s an awareness that in some ways reminds me of my dad, and his ability to increase the joy of the room. There’s nothing skin-deep about Ivanka." In the article, Ivanka says she prefers "smaller groups" of friends — of which Chelsea and her husband Marc Mezvinsky were frequently a part of.
But, just like Ivanka consistently stands by her brand, Chelsea stands by her convictions. In March, she spelled it out clearly on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert that their days of friendship are over. "I have not spoken to her in a long time," she said. "It’s clear, though, that she has supported policies and decisions that I don’t agree with. I’ve been very vocal about my opposition to President Trump and this White House."
Just like Ivanka consistently stands by her brand, Chelsea stands by her convictions.
In a May 2018 Guardian profile, Chelsea was asked if she feels anything sympathy for Ivanka. Speaking just two days after Ivanka was seen smiling at the opening of the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem as over 50 Palestinian protestors were killed and dozens wounded, she replied, "She’s an adult. She can make the choices for herself. I mean, she’s 36. We are responsible for our choices. In 2008 I was really proud to support my mom — but I disagreed with her fundamentally on a few things, particularly her then opposition to equal marriage rights for LGBTQ Americans. I never defended that position, because it wasn’t what I believed was the right thing to do."
While we'll never know what they talked about at George H.W. Bush's funeral, we do know that their falling out mirrors that of many friendships around the country. We hope that someday they can have a difficult, productive conversation rather than just make awkward chit-chat (which the video below suggests).
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The only Black woman to own and operate her own business in New York's diamond district is now selling her wares to the masses, thanks to the Home Shopping Network. Designer Sheryl Jones created a 12-piece collection, including rings, necklaces, and earrings, most of them priced under $300, and it's available on HSN.
"It was an incredible milestone for me to have a jewelry line on HSN featuring what I am most passionate about: diamonds and gemstones" Jones tells Refinery29. "I have been thinking about a collection like this for a very long time and it was amazing to have the opportunity to design statement rings, earrings and necklaces featuring stones like fire opal, red zircon, pink tourmalines, tanzanite, sapphires, and larimar." She says everything was produced with a high level of craftsmanship and "attention to detail at an affordable price."
In 2002, after a 10-year career in public relations in the entertainment industry, first as a film and television publicist and later as vice president of communications at MTV, Jones pivoted to open Sheryl Jones Designs. Her brand is "is known for a connoisseur’s level of craftsmanship, quality, and detail," she says. In fact, Jones’ client roster now includes Oscar-winning actress Cicely Tyson, Grammy-nominated singer H.E.R., singer Andra Day, who wore a diamond necklace Jones created to the 2018 Grammys and during her performance at the 2018 Oscars, and a few cast members on Love and Hip Hop New York.
Jones' pieces were featured in some of the promotional videos leading up to the newest season of the VH1 reality show, where she worked with stylists Khaliah Clark, Eric Archibald and Roger McKenzie. Her pieces were later featured on the Bravo reality show Married To Medicine.
But the designer loves working with non-celebrity clients, too – especially couples looking to create customized, highly personal engagement rings and wedding bands. "I am always impressed by how so many men want to make a beautiful ring their girlfriend will love," she explains. "They work really hard paying attention to every detail from the metal, to height of the center stone, how far the stones go down on the band, and design details on the gallery," she says. "It is really so sweet. When I meet the fiancée I always tell her, 'He worked really hard on this ring!'"
The future of beauty is here — and you’re invited. Check out the rest of our2018 Refinery29 Beauty Innovator Awardswinners for a full look at the products, brands, and people that are breaking the rules and redefining beauty standards, one lipstick at a time.
Jack Black is rumored to have once said, "You must never underestimate the power of the eyebrow." Chances are the comedian was referring mostly to his own expressive, shape-shifting set, but his wise words also apply to many a makeup routine.
The importance of a good brow is why people are spending hundreds every year on microblading, shaping, and waxing, and why Desi Perkins' new brow-kit collaboration with Benefit Cosmetics sold out less than 24 hours after launching. It's also why we decided to find the best eyebrow products on the market before the year ends.
So, instead of getting lost in all the new releases and hyped-up products of the last 12 months, we want you to know what's truly worth adding to your collection. We rounded up the most buzzed-about brow pens and gels of 2018 and had R29 staffers put them to the test. Ahead, the four honorees that proved to us the real power of the eyebrow.
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.
"I was slightly intimidated by this four-pronged tool at first glance, because I can confidently say that I'm no good at using brow pens and pencils. I normally just use a brow brush to keep mine neat, but when Maybelline says this product is foolproof, they weren't lying. It easily fills brows in with natural-looking, hair-like strokes, and to be honest, I don't know how I can live without this product moving forward. It's a winner, baby." —Nikki Tucker, Social Media Editor
Maybelline Maybelline Tattoostudio Brown Tint Pen , $7.99, available at Target
"This is like the Swiss Army knife of brow products: It has a brow powder, a pencil, and a spoolie brush all in one compact container, so you can get full, natural-looking brows without digging around your makeup bag. I can't stand when all-in-one brow products forget one of those key elements — especially the spoolie! — and include something random, like a sparkly silver brow highlighter. Who has used that since 2003?" —Cat Quinn, Beauty Director
"I've never found a brow gel that I could see myself adoring forever and ever and ever, but this one will do. It's definitely thickening, but it doesn't make your brow hairs muddy, and at this point, that's all I'm looking for in a gel." —Sam Sasso, Beauty Writer
Milk Makeup KUSH Fiber Brow Gel, $18, available at Sephora
"Most brow products are a pain for me to use, because frankly I'm not good at applying them. But this pencil's packaging is so fun — it works like those retractable pens we all had in elementary school — and it has so much product. By using the darkest shade on my brows and the highlighter stick on my inner eye, I was finally able to achieve Lily Collins' famous brows. Well, not really, but close enough." —Rachel Lubitz, Senior Beauty Writer
Benefit Cosmetics Brow Contour Pro 4-In-1 Defining & Highlighting Pencil, $34, available at Ulta Beauty
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There are plenty of people out there who have already finished holiday shopping and wrapping their gifts (and love to talk about it every time you see them). But joke's on them this year — because, for once, it pays to procrastinate.
For all you last-minute shoppers, Sephora just slashed prices on some of its most tempting holiday releases and year-round staples — and we're not just talking about a few dollars here or there. How about half off an eyeshadow palette stocked with staple shades that every makeup wearer should have? There's also a deal on Nars lip colors, which almost never go on sale, along with a few dope kits from Bite Beauty and GlamGlow.
In other words, the time for procrastination is over. Find some of our favorite deals, ahead.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Since December hit, we've been wearing nothing but Tannin (a poppy red shade) on our lips — and have racked up so many compliments, we wonder why we didn't start earlier in the year. The color and three others (including a limited-edition light brown called Date) are housed in a tin so sexy, you won't want to give it away.
Bite Beauty Four Little Bites Amuse Bouche Lipstick Set, $15, available at Sephora
The teeniest touch of this concealer stamps out all of last night's mistakes, which explains why several shades are already selling out fast.
Cover FX Cream Concealer, $14, available at Sephora
Is this gorgeous collection of four glitter liquid eyeshadows too pretty to break apart? Probably. But we'll be divvying up the contents of this kit among our girls as a pre-game present on NYE.
Stila Aura Alight Glitter & Glow Highlighter Liquid Eyeshadow, $30, available at Sephora
This limited-edition palette is chock full of eye-brightening shades, but what we really love is the included eye topper, which adds a wet finish to shadows.
Jouer Making Magic Ultra Foil Eyeshadow Palette Set, $36, available at Sephora
If heavy creams put a damper on your curls' bounce, try a soufflé. This one is lighter than most creams and oils, but still defines curl patterns while adding a hit of moisture. Also, it's not the only thing from this trusted hair brand on sale right now: You can stock up on shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments, too.
Madam C.J. Walker Coconut & Moringa Curl Whip Styling Souffle, $13, available at Sephora
For that teen in your life who only rolls her eyes at you a little bit, why not hook her up with a cream-to-powder blush in the cutest peach packaging? Choose from six shades at half price (and if you really want to go nuts, throw in a bronzer and highlighter from the collection too, which are also 50% off).
Too Faced Peach My Cheeks Melting Powder Blush, $15, available at Sephora
Show all those people who winter in Tulum that there's more than one way to get a glow. This overnight mask warms your complexion while you sleep — without the typical self-tanner stench.
Vita Liberata Self Tanning Night Moisture Mask, $22, available at Sephora
Velvet Matte Lip Pencils are the stuff of legend because they feel featherlight, but drench lips in color. The bummer: These bad boys never go on sale — until now. Score two neutrals and two bold shades for a few bucks more than the regular price of one.
NARS Manic Velvet Matte Lip Pencil Set, $36, available at Sephora
Our editors love the purifying power of this flash mask, which features bentonite and kaolin clay to clear your pores, witch hazel for toning, and aloe vera and licorice root to brighten. Ditto for this glow-inducing tinted moisturizer, making this kit a no-brainer for your friend who just wants to be J.Lo. (Is that too much to ask?)
GlamGlow Forget the Filter INSTAMUD™ Set, $35, available at Sephora
Fishing for a blanket gift to give just about anyone in your life? A solid collection of neutral matte eyeshadows cannot be fucked with (but grabbing one at half off makes it even better).
Smashbox Photo Matte Eyes Palette, $24.5, available at Sephora
We love the party vibe that confetti beauty products bring. After the merriment, you're left with an ultra-hydrating moisturizer that helps make complexions bright.
It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream Mini Confetti Popper, $8, available at Sephora
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The future of beauty is here — and you’re invited. Check out the rest of our2018 Refinery29 Beauty Innovator Awardswinners for a full look at the products, brands, and people that are breaking the rules and redefining beauty standards, one lipstick at a time.
We move pretty fast in relationships — when it comes to lipsticks, at least. Typically, we date around the beauty aisle, swatching different shades and formulas. Then we take a couple tubes home with us to wear for a bit... and if we fall in love and decide to take the next step? We're fully committed, just like that.
A ton of lipsticks launched this year, but only a few were worth locking down. Of course, we tested them, to separate the not-so-impressive from the cream of the crop. Among the elite were high-end tubes that became the most bougie of our collection, sheer tints that are better than lip balm, and powerful stains that that only look expensive. The 4 winners that are in our makeup bag for the long haul, ahead...
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
"The design of this product is gorgeous — the trapezoidal stick made it so easy to line my lips with color. I was really impressed with how smooth the formula went on, but it was also super easy to remove and didn't leave behind a stain. Even if you mess up and color outside of your lip line, you can easily clean it up and still have a rich color."—Lorenna Gomez-Sanchez, Senior Photo Editor
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture The Slim Matte Lipstick, $39, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
"I thought I'd hate this product because I tend to wear more gloss than liquid lipstick, and I expected the formula to be thick and messy. Instead, I got a lightweight fluid that faded beautifully to an even stain by the end of the day. It also lasted through eating an apple, which is pretty damn impressive, if you ask me. " —Sam Sasso, Beauty Writer
Physicians Formula Physician's Formula The Healthy Velvet Liquid Lip, $6.99, available at Target
"This gorgeous lipstick makes me feel rich, and since I'm pretty broke, that counts for something. When you hear 'comfort matte' you really wonder how that's even possible, but then you try this and you change your mind. It goes on super pigmented and lasts for hours. " —Sasso
Pat McGrath MatteTrance Lipstick, $38, available at Sephora
"I am not a sheer lipstick type of girl — I like my pigments bold and matte. But this Flesh formula made me realize that life is good on the subtle side, too. It gives me a nice wash of color that looks like my-lips-but-glossier. It's also super hydrating, so if you're on the go and forget lip balm, put this on and your lips will feel buttery soft." —Aimee Simeon, Beauty Writer
Flesh Beauty Fleshy Lips Lipstick, $18, available at Ulta Beauty
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Besides the obvious reason to protect our bodies from the elements, the purpose of clothing has always been to present the best versions of ourselves. Up until recently, that meant creating the illusion that our legs are skinnier, butts smaller, boobs bigger, “x body insecurity and image of beauty society deemed on trend”. But we no longer spend our precious brain cells worrying about such things – we haven’t for some time now.
In winters past, black tights were the ultimate neutral pants alternate due to their ability to detract attention away from the legs. But this season we’re doing a lil’ switcheroo. We’re bringing the focal point to our wonderful legs that enable us to walk, run, and go all of the places we need to go. We love them so much, why did we ever want to hide them in the first place? Our new all-about-legs philosophy has us exploring the many printed tights out there, from designer options to looks that you can DIY-customize with pairs you may already own. We’re also in the camp that most things are better in twos. So we enlisted two flexible babes – professional contortionists, in fact! – to showcase this season’s brightest and most whimsical tights while simultaneously performing editorial trust falls/leans/handstands.
Left: Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, $425, available at Shopbop; Foot Traffic Metro Retro Tights, $18, available at Foot Traffic; Loeffler Randall Jade Kitten Mule, $375 $225, available at Loeffler Randall.Photographed by Jess RichmondH.K.M. Gabriel Blouse, $274, available at H.K.M.; Danskin Camisole Leotard, $36, available at Amazon; Molly Goddard Bevan Tights Warp Rainbow, $101.95, available at Molly Goddard.Photographed by Jess Richmond
Kaleidoscope Of Funk
It’s difficult to wear psychedelic prints without giving off a specific ~vibe~. So lean into it, and don’t be afraid to pile on the colors. Graphic tights made their most recent debut on British designer Molly Goddard’s FW18 runway. But even with their unexpected and bright prints, they weren’t the main focal point of the looks. As a corrective to this injustice, we styled them here to be the star of the show. Find a complementary pair for a friend; you'll be able to trust them 100% to hold your legs as you handstand to the skies.
Marianna Senchina Asymmetric Midi Dress, $412.50, available at Shopbop; We Love Colors White Striped Tights, $12.50, available at We Love Colors; Trademark Knot Adrien Slide, $278, available at Trademark. Photographed by Jess RichmondRhode Resort dress, Hysteria By Happy Socks Robin Tights, $32, available at Hysteria By Happy Socks; Loeffler Randall Coco High Heel Knot Mule, $297, available at Loeffler Randall; Area gloves. Photographed by Jess Richmond
Been-There-Done-That Prints
If swan-diving head first into the printed tights trend isn’t for you, start with prints that you’re already familiar with. Stripes? Easy, we’ve already mastered it for our shirts. Why not throw it on our legs? Dots? Our middle school art teacher wore these with aplomb while teaching us how to watercolor a lake scene. Hence the tie-dyed frock we styled them with for optimal cool art teacher vibes. Curb your nervousness about bright horizontal striped tights by wearing them with a midi length dress that’s equally loud. The length will ensure that the attention stays on the dress but add movement, and your tights will peek out for a surprise.
Right: Madewell x Maiami Checker Big Sweater, $460, available at Madewell; We Love Colors Checkerboard Tights, $5, available at We Love Colors; MISBHV dress; Brother Vellies heels.Photographed by Jess RichmondThe Knitter The Ugly Intarsia Wool Sweater, $645, available at Net-A-Porter, Emilio Cavallini Two Toned Chess Tights, $26, available at Emilio Cavallini; Loeffler Randall Jade Kitten Heel, $225, available at Loeffler Randall. Photographed by Jess Richmond
Decked Out Checks
Depending on your experience, the checkered print might evoke memories of chess club, or race car driving, or just teenage days spent at Hot Topic in the mall. Whatever feelings the pattern may elicit, follow them. Embrace the Indy 500 vibe with even more checks on top and a futuristic bandage dress. Or match your checks with a chunky sweater and zebra print bodysuit for an out-of-the-box “going out” look this winter. We’re strong believers that tights can totally be pants (see another examplehere).
Tibi Heels, Falke Beeswax Tight, $53.45, available at Falke. Photographed by Jess RichmondAlix Forsyth Bodysuit, $295, available at Alix; The Frankie Shop skirt; Area fishnet tights; Brother Vellies Cher Dust Holiday Mules, $495, available at Brother Vellies; Agmes Ana Earrings, $415, available at Agmes. Photographed by Jess Richmond
Do-It-Yourself Graphics
We combined two things that are near and dear to our heart: layering and DIY. The formula for these “graphic tights” is simple: layer one pair of fishnet tights over another pair of plain colored tights, and ta-da. Your legs are now two mesmerizing landscapes of textures. Patterned tights come in lots of variations, but fishnet tights have just the same amount depending on the colors and thickness of the fishnet. Wear something with Angelina Jolie-high slits to show off your smart layering trick (and for standing splits, as shown here).
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When you have curly or natural hair, finding a hairstylist or salon you can trust is a lot like hunting for your soul mate. One amazing blind date could land you with someone who knows how to twist and cut your curls, and you live happily ever after in total hair bliss. Or, you spend a few years kissing frogs — and crying — before you end up with the one. Unfortunately, the latter scenario is more common for people with naturally curly and kinky hair.
Not all salons and stylists are hip to handling textured strands. Different types of curls require different care and — if done wrong — your salon experience (and your hairstyle) can deteriorate into a nightmare. Finding that person to give you a seasonal trim, a new fall hair color, or just a bomb twist out is a process of trial and error. But once you find a place to care for your curls, you've hit the jackpot.
If you're still playing the field and you live in The Big Apple, we scoped out some potential contenders. Ahead, find all the people and places our fellow naturalistas trust most with their hair.
Cost: Haircuts, $80 and up; color, $80 and up; blowouts, $65 and up; locs, $90 and up; natural hair styling, $90 and up
Recommended stylist: Ursula Stephen
"Ursula Stephen is a celebrity hairstylist who has worked with stars like Rihanna and Bebe Rexha, and she opened up her own salon in Brooklyn a few years back. The cozy space is all exposed brick and oversized mirrors, and she’s always got R&B jams playing. This spot specializes in silk presses — look on any stylist’s station and you’ll see a flat iron and hot comb laid side by side — and weave installations. Ursula is also a master at cuts. She can give you anything, from a blunt bob to a textured pixie and even feathery layers. But you have to catch her when she’s in town, because she travels a lot to do magazine shoots and red-carpet hair." — Jessica Cruel, Deputy Beauty Director at Refinery29
Cost: Haircut & style, $92 and up; single process, $80 and up; wash and press, $80 and up; locs, $95 and up; natural hair styling, $90 and up
"Time Studio reminds me so much of the salon I used to go to growing up — the one I would spend hours in on a Saturday as I waited to get my relaxer refreshed. I haven't had a chemical treatment in about 10 years, and I do my own hair 95% of the time. But this is the place I call when I don’t have the energy for wash day because they can usually fit me in for a last-minute appointment. Time Studio has stylists who can do everything on natural hair, from a silk press to a twist-out. The dry scalp treatment is one of my personal favorites, because it really gets rid of the flakes and product build-up that I somehow seem to miss when I shampoo my own hair, and there's nothing like a good scalp massage." — Cruel
"I discovered Reece from a friend of mine who worked with her for an editorial piece. At the time, I had been natural for about two years, and I was trying to find someone who could help me get that big full 'fro that I loved looking at on Instagram. Reece didn’t do that. Instead she got me to be daring and do something I’ve been afraid to do for ages — cut off all my hair. Now I have a head of barely-there tapered curls that I adore and a hairstylist I feel 100% comfortable trying new things with. Not only does Reece know how to care for curls, she also knows how to make her clients fall in love with their hair. It’s amazing!" — Meki Pierre, Entertainment Editor at Popsugar
Devachan Soho
Cost: Haircuts, $80 and up; single process, $105 and up
"It’s difficult to find stylists that truly know how to cut and style type 4 hair. Some want to blow your hair out and then trim it; some simply cut too much off by not paying attention to your shrinkage. Candace starts off each appointment with a consultation to get an idea of what you want, and she'll give you her honest opinion on what may (or may not) work with your texture. She's trained in cutting curly hair so that the shape is tailored specifically to your face and style. I’ve left every appointment satisfied with my bouncy, healthy curls." — Kareen Jeanty, Sales & Education Administrator at Charlotte Tilbury
Cost: Haircuts, $285 and up; single process, $195 and up; blowouts, $150
Recommended stylist: Mona Baltazar
"When looking for someone to cut your curls, it's important to find a professional who will make you feel comfortable and, more importantly, knows what they're doing. With Mona, you know you're in good hands just from looking at her Instagram and seeing all her perfectly angled after photos.
"Mona speaks to you beforehand so that you're both on the same page before the scissors come out (which is super important for her), and she keeps you updated every step along the way. I never wondered, 'Omg, what is she doing now?' which is easy to worry about when hairstylists start snipping. Overall, she gave me exactly what I was looking for. She even followed up with me and messaged me on Instagram after the haircut to see how I was adjusting to my new look. Now, I can't imagine going anywhere else." — Thatiana Diaz, Beauty Writer at Refinery29
Hair Rules
Cost: Haircuts, $100 and up; single process, $125 and up; blowouts, $55 and up; curly style $55 and up; twist-out, $110 and up; finger coils, $125 and up; braids, $65 and up
"I went into Hair Rules salon for my first professional dye job (I don't count the pre-teen blonde streaks I got). My hair is natural, and I usually wear it straight, so I needed someone well-versed in styling curly hair both ways to do the job. I found Jaxcee on Instagram and saw that she frequently colors curls, so I took a chance. Jackie took my jet-black hair to a warm blonde shade in two sessions. She walked me through every single step of the process, and I never felt like any question or concern I had was invalid. Most importantly, I loved my hair, and I haven't experienced any damage or breakage since my appointment. My color looks extremely natural and there are no harsh lines. If Jaxcee's doing your color, know that your curls are in good hands." — Aimee Simeon, Beauty Writer at Refinery29
Courtesy of Hair Rules
5 Salon & Spa
Cost: Curly haircuts, $150 and up; single process, $75 and up; blowouts, $40 and up
"I normally don't travel out of my borough to go to a salon. But when I heard so many great things about 5 Salon & Spa and its owner, Ona Diaz-Santin, I was willing to travel to New Jersey. When I first got there, everyone was super inviting and friendly. Then I met Ona and my hair — and life — was changed forever.
"Sitting in her chair felt like being around an old friend. She has such an amazing soul and, not to mention, she's super talented with curly hair. My consultation was extremely detailed. Ona evaluated my hair type, density, and scalp health. She walked me through every step of my service, from the cut to the color. She has naturally curly hair and knows how to manage it firsthand. It's going on 3 years now that I've been going to 5 Salon and Spa, and I will forever be a loyal client." — Sandra Negron, Blogger and Co-Founder Of Blogger House Curly Closet
Cost: Haircuts, $69 and up; single process, $110 and up; blowouts, $39 and up; styling, $35 and up
"My hair can sometimes have a mind of its own, and I have to make sure I put it in the hands of people who are experienced with my texture. I immediately fell in love with the Beleza Naturals space and staff. Prior to getting my hair colored — I had highlights done previously, but I wanted to add more life to my kinks — I got a free consultation to ensure that my hair and scalp were in good health before proceeding with the service. My stylist did exactly what I asked for, and she shared helpful tips on how to keep my hair healthy at home. I am still so pleased with my hair and look forward to my next visit at the end of this month. I highly recommend this salon to anyone in search of a natural hairstylists experienced with different textures." — Yani Acevedo, Beauty Influencer
Cost: Haircuts, $160 and up; single process, $130 and up; blowouts & thermal treatment, $190 and up; styling, $100 and up
"I've been watching MoKnowsHair (Monica Stevens) on YouTube since she began her channel, so I was really excited when she moved to New York and eventually got her own space. She is extremely knowledgeable and can break down the science of your natural hair and identify its needs. The intimate setting of her salon has a positive vibe — it makes you feel like you’re hanging out with a friend while getting your hair done. Mo is in high demand these days and her salon schedule is often booked up, but if you can get an appointment, it's worth the wait." — Branda Johnson
Cost: Locs, $160 and up; braids, $40 and up; crochet loc extensions, $380 and up; natural hair styling, $45 and up
"I love coming into NappStar. The salon is a great experience — all around. The stylists are professional and super knowledgeable of their craft. The atmosphere is also extremely convivial. NappStar stylists have the fastest fingers in the industry, too. I've gone in for box braids and have been done in two hours. I couldn't recommend them more!" — Safie Da Costa Soares
Cost: Treatments, $36 and up; natural hair sets, $85 and up; braided styles, $100 and up; color, $120 and up; weaves, $360 and up; loc styles, $30 and up
Recommended stylist: Anta Fall
"My first visit to Khamit Kinks was back in 2012. While I've since relocated outside of the city, there is no other salon in the five boroughs that I trust to care for my curls. It's the premier salon in Brooklyn (dare I say, New York City) for natural hair care and styling. I am greeted with hospitality and professionalism from the moment I walk through the door. And, unlike many Black hair salons, I've never experienced a long wait because efficiency is non-negotiable.
"I would recommend Anta Fall for kinky-haired ladies who are fans of two-strand twists and textured hair extensions. She has a quiet disposition, but she means business. Her eye for detail is impeccable — no sloppy work!" — Dana Oliver, Beauty Director at Yahoo! Beauty
Courtesy of Khamit Kinks
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If you're ready to wash your hands of 2018, Bath & Body Works has got your back. Today, the retailer announced a year-end, half-off sale on all its cult hand soaps — bringing them in at just $3 a pop. That means you can breathe in the sweet scents of Crisp Morning Air and Vanilla Bean Noel for less than what you'd spend on plain ol' drugstore soap. It also means your guest bathroom will finally be ready for your visiting mother-in-law.
The deal only lasts through today (and with the code SNOWYSOAPS) so time is of the essence. Find out which scents we're hoarding gifting, ahead.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Yesterday, Justin Timberlake announced on Instagram that he'd been forced to cancel the rest of his December tour dates due to bruised vocal cords. Naturally, ticket holders were devastated — but then actor and director Jonah Hill stepped in and offered to take Timberlake's place on stage. The singer agreed with the plan, and reassured fans that, believe it or not, Hill absolutely slays his track "Mirrors."
Of course, this exchange was not the making of the most unexpected thing to happen in 2018 (and that's saying a lot), but a good-natured joke between celebrity friends. It wasn't until later that night that Hill seemingly took his new — fake! — job as Timberlake's stand-in a little too seriously.
To Twitter's shock and awe, Hill appeared at the Game Awards on Thursday night as a surprise presenter. The only thing more surprising than Hill's actual presence was the new hair color he was rocking: platinum blonde. Although we fully support Hill's freedom to play with hair color as he so pleases, others are not so sure about the 34-year-old's latest decision.
We don't know if Hill bleached his hair for an upcoming role or as a personal choice, but some fans (and haters) certainly think he's channeling a few famous blonde men with the latest look, like Guy Fieri...
His peroxide transformation comes just days after both Khloé Kardashian and Hilary Duff made similar decisions to go icy blonde. Given that it's turned out to be one of the more popular hair-color trends of the last year, we shouldn't be too surprised, especially where Hill is concerned. After all, he did dye his hair hot pink this summer — we should have known he'd go winter white next.
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