Good news: At long last, Daria is coming back to MTV.
The iconic MTV cartoon about the life of Daria Morgendorffer is headed to a new channel called MTV Classic, according to Vulture. Previously known as VH1 Classic, the channel will be closer to MTV's best days: clever cartoons, music video mania, and that good ol' 90s/early aughts vibe.
Daria isn't the only show returning to our TV diets. Erik Flannigan, MTV’s executive vice-president of music and events strategy and development, told Vulture that fans can expect reruns of Wonder Showzen, MTV Cribs, Beavis and Butt-head, Laguna Beach, and Clone High. There will also be evenings dedicated to Pimp My Ride, Jackass, and Run’s House. MTV Classic will be a constant run of TBTs to shows that originally aired over a decade ago. Imagine it: More Xzibit, more LC, and more "Hello, MTV, and welcome to my crib."
The channel will be the permanent home for the shows and broadcasts unearthed by a project called MTV Vault, Flannigan told Vulture. For the last five years, over a million physical tapes from three decades of MTV history have been digitized for this opportunity at a second life. "So much great content from MTV’s past has gone unseen on any platform for years,” Flannigan told Vulture, adding that the “timing seemed right to bring the best of it back to life in a new context."
Get a feel for the channel before it airs August 1:
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Gwyneth Paltrow puts the "gp" in Goop, but is something about to change? And is it too soon to bust out another round of "consciously uncoupling" puns?
“In order to build the brand I want to build, its scalability is limited if I connect to it,” she shared. “So I always think: ‘How can I grow the brand? How can I separate myself from the brand?’ and I think it's going to be more its own brand. More and more I would like it to be its own brand. My dream is that one day no one will remember that I had anything to do with it."
Yeah, no. We'll always remember. The water. The sex toys. Those memories aren't going anywhere.
"The challenges I encounter every day running a business and operating a business are incredibly fulfilling, and totally terrifying and really awesome,” Paltrow added. “It’s been an amazing journey.”
An amazing, gluten-free, 100% organic journey.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Earlier this week, Florida health officials announced that they were looking into two possible cases of local Zika transmission. Today, CNN reports they've confirmed that those two cases (plus two others) were likely acquired locally, rather than via travel to an area already battling a Zika outbreak or by having sex with someone who'd traveled to those areas.
The country has already seen over 1,600 travel-related cases of the virus, according to CDC stats. But these four patients — located in Miami-Dade and Broward counties — would be the first instances of Zika virus being acquired from local mosquitoes in the U.S.
This morning, Florida Governor Rick Scott said that mosquitoes in the state still had not actually tested positive for Zika. But because travel-related transmission had been ruled out in these four cases, local transmission is assumed to be the cause.
Public health experts have been saying this kind of spread of the virus would be inevitable for months now. But there's no need to freak out. Although small, localized outbreaks like this may be increasingly common, a widespread outbreak is very unlikely. And it's always good to remember that, although the virus does pose risks for pregnant women, it's a mild illness for most people.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Will it be a Charles Manson-esque cult? An isolated house full of murderous hillbillies like in Texas Chainsaw Massacre? Will there be a demented antichrist child? Will there be an appearance from the enigmatic Slender Man? Or more like Village of The Damned or Children of The Corn?
These are our strongest theories about the upcoming sixth season of American Horror Story, which returns to FX on September 14, but we still have so many unanswered questions. The promotional videos and teasers are all creepy and as unsettling as ever, but the theme isn't crystal clear. Fans on Reddit have guessed that this season will hint at, and overlap with season one's Mansion House, based on the image of the farmhouse on the hill is where most of the action will take place. Above the house is a plume of smoke spelling out 6 which has been a teaser for the season.
The confirmed cast members include familiar faces to the Ryan Murphy lineup: Lady Gaga, Denis O’Hare, Matt Bomer, Cheyenne Jackson, Angela Bassett, and Evan Peters.
So, let's get into all those teasers.
Sunset Stroll — The family walking towards the camera looks either possessed or like aliens. Though maybe it's a bit of that Children Of The Corn effect?
What's Cooking? — Gives us a long glance at the house where the evil resides. We hear a chainsaw, a scream, and see clouds of smoke. Perhaps we have a cannibalistic residence on ours hands?
Descent — A terrified woman running from zombie-like hands grabbing at her ankles. Yep, looks like classic AHS to me. Perhaps this is the basement of the house, and a little shop of horrors at that.
Post Op — Our first bit of dialogue! We hear a British-sounding man telling a deformed individual to "try to keep it dry" as he staples his scalp back together. Bleck.
Milli Crossing — Is this Gaga? Are we cooking with bugs now too? Or is this a nod to The Human Centipede?
Lullaby — This clip basically confirms that there is a creepy baby. Look at that hand!
One Reddit user also pointed out that the mobile spells out "Pig" which could refer to the "Piggy Piggy" episode in season 1.
Photo Courtesy of FX.
What do you guys think the theme is? Let us know below.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Eyeliner can be the saving grace of the time-strapped girl. A quick swipe or a flick of the wrist and you've got a statement makeup look that takes literally no time to create. Unfortunately, high summer humidity and creamy, dark liners do not necessarily make for a great match — all that moisture and heat causes sweating, slippage, and smearing. Suddenly, your perfectly defined gaze is looking more raccoon than ravishing.
Fortunately, there is a fix for this hot-weather primping problem: long-wear liner. These stay-put pens, pots, and pencils grab on tight to your lid and hold on for dear life. They're so good, you might find your only issue is how the hell to get them off your lids. (Hint: We love a good cleansing oil for this particular task.)
Ahead, the R29 beauty team's top picks for stay-in-place liners.
Makeup artists, editors, and bloggers alike have raved about this drugstore gel eyeliner for years. Once slicked onto the lids (just use the A+ brush that comes with it) the formula allows for some time to blend before it dries — and once it does, it's not going anywhere.
Maybelline, $9.99, available at Ulta BeautyPhoto: Courtesy of Maybelline.
Marc Jacobs Beauty has managed to fuse the precision of a gel and the ease a a pencil into one user-friendly product that doesn't budge once it sets. That's a long way of saying it's great for those of us who don't moonlight as makeup artists.
Marc Jacobs Beauty, $25.00, available at SephoraPhoto: Via Sephora.
This tried-and-true liquid eyeliner has a super-fine tip making it ideal for tracing cat eyes. Plus, the long-wearing formula doesn't get flaky, even if you head out straight after work. (And stay out past midnight.)
L'Oréal Lineur Intense Felt-Tip Liquid Eyeliner, $8.99, available at Ulta.
— PAID —
Pick a shade, any shade. That's right: Not only does this new Aqua XL eyeliner from Make Up For Ever stay put through any summer activity, but it also comes in shades that go beyond the black-to-blacker range. Turquoise, cobalt, yellow, plum — once you swipe on these colorful liners, they aren't going anywhere.
For those of you looking for a long-wearing no-tug liquid liner, this one will be right up your alley. It also has a high-satin, rich-girl finish we're mad about.
Chantecaille, $34.00, available at NordstromPhoto: Via Nordstrom.
Although we can't say we've worn this eyeliner-eyeshadow hybrid for 24 hours straight, we have counted on it to get us through two conferences calls, three appetizers, and um, a few aperitifs. We're happy to report the color held up the whole time.
Too Faced Bulletproof Liner 24 Hour Eyeliner, $24, available at Too Faced.
Photo: Via Sephora.
The long, felt-tipped nib of this liquid eyeliner makes it super easy to draw on graphic designs or itty bitty flicks. Plus, it's waterproof meaning it's designed to last — whether you stay in and stream Beaches and Titanic, or head out to brave the outdoor heat.
Napoleon Perdis, $22.00, available at NordstromPhoto: Via Nordstrom.
NYX's Retractable Eye Liners come in a host of fun colors (silver, teal, cobalt) that will see you through every picnic, festival, or pool party you go to this summer.
NYX, $4.49, available at Ulta BeautyPhoto: Courtesy of Nyx Cosmetics.
This fella will last through an hour-long gym sesh, dip in the pool, and even a light showering of rain. (We tested.)
Urban Decay, $20.00, available at SephoraPhoto: Courtesy of Urban Decay.
Like this post? There's more. Get tons of beauty tips, tutorials, and news on the Refinery29 Beauty Facebook page. Like us on Facebook — we'll see you there!
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
I get so nervous before job interviews — sweaty palms, dry mouth, butterflies in my stomach. It’s really not fun. But once I’m sitting down with the interviewer, things usually get better, in part because I love talking about myself and my work. I don’t mean this in a braggy way, but how often do you get to sit down with someone and really talk about the projects you love or how you want to grow your career, except in an interview setting? And sure, the lead-up is nerve-wracking, but with a little practice, you can master the most common questions a hiring manager will throw your way. Ultimately, being prepared is an easy way to ease the tension.
Ahead, 24 questions you should answer without second thought, advice on how to nail the interview, and how to land your dream job.
This question can be a little tricky if you haven't done some research about the company, as well as asked your interviewer some smart questions about the job you're applying for. While some of the questions on this list are general, and you can prep for them regardless of where you're interviewing, this one calls for a little more background information.
Before going into the interview, read up as much as you can on the business and changes within the company and the industry. The key here is to appear knowledgable, as well as be upbeat about any challenges you might face. It's okay to be honest, too. If you see something wrong that you think you can fix, an interview can be a great chance to point it out — as long as you take the time to offer some solutions for fixing the problem as well.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Your résumé is just one page, and it only tells a fraction of the story of what you do on a daily basis. It should feature a lot of impressive numbers (you’ve managed a $1 million budget; you organized a 1,000-person conference), but during the interview, you need to add context. Share anecdotes that display your management skills; have a good explanation for why you left your first job; and be able to talk about your accomplishments.
When prepping for this question, it can be good to take a look back at past performance reviews and pull out all the positive feedback you’ve received. This is an interview — talking about your successes is key.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
This question shouldn’t be a surprise, and you should have a clear and concise answer. You’re looking for an opportunity to grow. You love cats and taking photos, so this position as a cat photographer is a natural fit. You’ve dreamed of writing about beauty products your whole life.
Your answer should show how passionate you are about the position and that you’ve done your research into what the job will entail.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Your answer to this question should reveal that you’ve done your research on the company and the people you’ll be working with. Were they in the news recently for a big accomplishment? Mention that. Do they have world-class research facilities that are unparalleled? That’s a no-brainer. This is your chance to express your enthusiasm for the company, and help the hiring manager understand why you’d be a good fit for the job.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
It can be really hard for some people to really talk up their accomplishments, but it’s crucial in a job interview. Again, go through past performance reports and make note of the positive feedback. And then take a few minutes to think about the things you do that make you feel really good. Those are the strengths you want to talk about — and make sure you have some anecdotes to back them up. You don't want to just state, "I'm a great manager." You need to share a few stories that illustrate your point.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
My favorite episode of the British Office is when David Brent is going over Big Keith’s year-end review, and Keith lists that his weakness is “eczema.” Makes me laugh every time. This is one of the most difficult questions to answer, and saying “perfectionism” will drive your interviewer bonkers.
Having a smart and thoughtful response to this question can show the hiring manager that you’re self-aware, and willing to grow and change. No one is perfect at their jobs — if they are, it’s probably time to find something more challenging. And everyone has an area where they struggle. Be honest, but don’t reveal too much.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
I really hate this question, and the first time I encountered it, I had a really hard time coming up with an answer. But it comes up all the time in interviews, and it’s a great chance to show off your problem-solving skills.
Remember, the problem doesn’t have to be epic, but your reaction needs to show that you’re flexible, capable of making smart decisions, and able to think on your feet.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
This is not the opportunity to bash your current employer, as much as you might be tempted to say a few nasty things about that bitch of a boss who’s holding you back from a promotion. That’s a conversation to have with your friends over cocktails, or with your therapist. Playing the growth card is always good — you love your current job, but you’re looking for an opportunity to grow. And again, this is a time to show you’ve done your research, and explain why you’ll be such a good fit at this new company.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
I love this question, because it’s a chance to talk yourself up using other people’s words. Again, reference those performance reviews, mention great feedback you received from clients, and talk about how well you work with your colleagues. If you’re really unhappy at your job — you feel minimized, there are no growth opportunities, you’re isolated — it’s okay to explain that you don’t think your boss and colleagues see your full potential, and tie your answer back to the question about why you’re looking for new a gig.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Again, this is a question where you need to do your research. And similar to the question about your weaknesses, you need to be honest without being harsh. You should not only have a list of improvements you would make, you should explain how you could help institute these changes. That will help the interviewer understand the value you'll bring to the job.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
It's a deceptively simple question, but it can be a really good conversation starter that can help you better understand the company's culture. Do you put your headphones on and power through a bunch of work? Do you thrive on being busy? Do you like strong direction or do you prefer a hands-off manager? Before you go in for an interview, take a while to ruminate on how you work best and what you look for in a boss (or how you like to be the boss, if that's the case).
When a hiring manager is considering a new employee, it's important for him or her to consider how you'll fit with the team. And while it can be disappointing not to get a job, just remember that you don't actually want a gig where you don't fit in.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Work is not all sunshine and roses, and when you're interviewing, sometimes you have to talk about the tough stuff along with all your achievements. Even if you and your boss have the best relationship of all time, there are moments when you will disagree. How do you handle those situations?
Obviously, you're not going to tell the story about the time you had a meltdown and cried in front of your coworkers (hey, it happens to the best of us). But you can talk about how you've successfully navigated tricky situations and survived an awkward conversation or two. This will show that you're diplomatic, flexible, and able to "manage up" — all qualities of a desirable candidate.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
This is a surprisingly important question, and the answer probably shouldn't be "I like to binge-watch Law & OrderSVU " (even though there's nothing wrong with that). It also doesn't need to be something as selfless as "I spend my weekends feeding the homeless" (though that's great if you do).
These days, many hiring managers and recruiters are as concerned that you'll fit into the work culture as they are about your skills. So, you should be honest about your answer, but make sure you do include some of the cool things that keep you entertained during your downtime — activities that really reflect your personality.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
One thing that can be hard about interviewing is self-promotion. It's natural to feel like you're bragging when you start talking about your accomplishments, but that's what you need to be doing. And when this question comes up, it's time to show off your skills and talk about how you exhibited grace and resilience when facing work craziness.
Is your job so boring that you've never had to deal with a crisis (even if that so-called crisis is your mean boss having a meltdown over spilled milk)? Then take a story from your day-to-day life. Because everyone faces high-pressure situations from time to time, and how you stepped up and handled the problem shows a lot about your character. Polish this anecdote so you'll really shine.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
It took me a while to figure out my management style, and I think for the best managers, it's an evolving thing that differs depending on whom you're managing. But this question goes back to the issue of culture, and culture is a big concern for recruiters, so be thoughtful with crafting your answer.
If you've never been a manager before, look back on all your past bosses and use that experience to form your response. A bad boss can teach you almost as much as a good boss (sometimes more). Most of us have had a moment when we thought, When I'm the boss, I'll never, ever treat an employee like that. You've been learning a management style all along, even if you weren't tuned in to it.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
This is one of those simple questions that can trip you up, like when your date asks you to name a favorite band. But, it's a super easy one to prepare for. Even if you're not reading anything impressive at the moment, you can mention some favorite books (or even magazine/newspaper articles) that made an impression on you in the past. This is less about proving you are The Most Well-Read Person Of All Time and more about showing some outside-of-work personality.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
I hate this question. In my dream world, the recruiter/hiring manager would be up-front about salary, and the two of you wouldn't waste time playing mind games. But that's not how the job-hunting process works, and at some point, you're going to have to talk about money.
I've read a lot on this topic, and everyone says something a little different. Some experts suggest you should never give away your requirements first — wait until the hiring manager tells you a number. Others say you should do your research and offer a range. Another school of experts argues you should never, ever play coy. With so much conflicting information, what are you really supposed to do?
I think this is a purely personal answer: You need to choose the response that works best for you. Some people will be good at avoiding the questions and coming across as master negotiators; others will have more success providing a range.
Whatever you do, make sure you do some research, so you know your worth (sites like Payscale provide some insight into how much people are paid depending on experience level and industry) — and have a number you are okay with in your head that you stick to when offering a range. Being personally comfortable and confident with your own salary requirements will only help the process be less awkward.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
I'm not sure I've ever been asked this question, but you never know when you're going to have an interviewer throw you a curveball. Tech companies are famous for their nutty questions, but you might come across a surprise regardless of the industry you're in.
There's no right answer to this question, but there is a right way to respond. You want to be game for these silly twists and come up with a creative answer that shows off a little bit of your personality, whether you most closely identify with a lion or a zebra. Just don't say "a house cat, because they get to sleep all the time." I mean, you could, but it's probably not the quickest way to get hired.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
I hate this question, because I've never been someone with a five-year plan. I don't have a next-year plan, for that matter. And I think that's prevented me from getting jobs in the past. What I perceive to be flexibility (I'm game for anything!), hiring managers might view as flightiness. But, the truth is, I do have long-term goals, and even if they aren't concrete (editorial director by 40!), sharing them with an interviewer shows I am invested in growing my career.
Like with so many answers to interview questions, you should worry less about having a super-specific answer and more about displaying your personality and drive. Because, realistically, it's unlikely your career path will be so straight and narrow, but it's definitely not going to move forward if you don't have a good answer to this question.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Money? Fame? Saving the children? What inspires you to do good work? There's not really a wrong answer to this question, but you probably want to make sure your response fits with the industry culture of the job you're applying for. If you're interviewing at a non-profit, I wouldn't recommend saying you're motivated by the desire to earn a big paycheck.
But preparing for this question is also a good way to think a little more about the kinds of jobs you do want. Are you excited by the opportunities a certain industry might offer? Will your responsibilities and the potential rewards (whether monetary or something else) keep you motivated? Once you've given it some thought, you shouldn't have any trouble giving the interviewer a great response; plus, you'll be on your way to working in a field that will actually keep you motivated.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
You don't need to be a boss to have leadership experience. If you're searching for your first real job, you can talk about running your college paper or how you organized your sorority's annual charity drive and raised the most money ever. If you're two or three years into your career, look back over your experience and pick out moments when you stepped beyond your job description and took on extra responsibilities. And if you really find yourself tripping over this question, maybe ask yourself if you need to seek out more leadership opportunities so you can develop that essential skill.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
This is a chance to really show your passion, knowledge, and enthusiasm for the job. Don't hold back: Tell the story of why you were drawn to this profession and the steps you've been taking to grow in the field. Talk about how this job will help you continue on your desired career trajectory. And don't be afraid to "talk shop," so to speak, and discuss areas where you think there is room for improvement, whether in the business where you're interviewing or in the industry as a whole.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Don’t say no. Always have at least one question, even if it’s been a thorough interview, and you’ve asked almost as many questions as you’ve answered (a great interview is usually more like a conversation). This is a great time to ask about the hiring timeline and figure out the next steps. This isn’t the time to ask about vacation days.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
You are a special butterfly — truly. And it's impossible to express that on a résumé. It can be hard to even make clear just how awesome you are during an interview. I'm no natural at boasting about my strengths, but here's the thing: In an interview, talking about how great you are isn't really boasting. Sure, you could come across as cocky if you use the wrong tone. But if you're passionately sharing your experiences, you'll only come across as enthusiastic. And that's what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for in a job candidate. So take this moment and savor sharing some stories about your successes and what makes you so special — it's essential if you want to land this kick-ass job.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Thirty-five years ago today, Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer tied the knot at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. It was the BBC 's first televised wedding, and with 750 million viewers worldwide, it remains the most popular broadcast ever.
From the cost of Diana's dress to the length of her veil, here are a few highlights from the day that you can casually bring up on your lunch break...
3,500 Guests
Attended the ceremony at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
FOTO: Anwar Hussein / GETTY IMAGES
£9,000 ($11,900)
The cost of Diana's dress at the time. Designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, this dress would cost the equivalent of £31,000 ($41,000) today.
FOTO: Lichfield / GETTY IMAGES
8 Meters (26 Feet)
The length of Princess Diana's veil. It took three-and-a-half minutes for her to walk down the aisle.
FOTO: David Levenson / GETTY IMAGES
27 Wedding Cakes
For the guests of the couple. The cakes took 14 weeks to make.
FOTO: Princess Diana Archive / GETTY IMAGES
12 Days
The duration of the honeymoon: a cruise on the Royal Yacht Britannia in the Mediterranean.
FOTO: Princess Diana Archive / GETTY IMAGES
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
We've all experienced that summer day, when the temp is upward of 80, the air so sticky we have a permanent sweat 'stache, and wearing clothes sounds like the absolute worst. But since going naked in public isn't an option, we get by with clothing that doesn't feel like clothing — those loose, drapey styles that barely touch our bodies, catch welcome breezes, and protect our skin from sticking to every surface. And, fortunately for us, casual is au courant. The challenge, of course, is styling these effortless, oft-oversized pieces in ways that won't swallow us whole or appear sloppy.
We could look to the obvious fashion destinations for inspiration, but one city in particular has been on our radar as a burgeoning style hub: Toronto. Between its thriving indie designer scene and the heavy '90s and skater influences found within this bike-commuter culture, we knew we could count on our northern neighbor to deliver. So with the help of Destination Canada, we explored trendy 'hoods like West Queen West and Trinity-Bellwoods and were pleased to see that there wasn't a restrictive or trying-too-hard ensemble in sight. From wide-legged trousers with sneakers to billowy, shoulder-baring blouses, the outfits ahead show exactly how laid-back chic is done.
Too hot? Cuff your sleeves and unbutton your top all the way up, except for the top button (just remember to wear a sporty bra or crop top underneath). This'll make those streetcar rides way more bearable.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
Wide, kick-flare denim meets its match with this tucked-in graphic tee.
Give an oversized shirtdress some shape by using another button-up as a makeshift belt. Then, take this breezy look exploring as you hit up local faves like Kensington Market and the neighboring Art Gallery of Ontario.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
Take a feminine, A-line skirt down a notch with a vintage tourist tee. Hop on a bike for added coolness.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
This abstract-floral minidress gets the casual treatment with worn-in low tops.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
A striped dress makes for the perfect commuter outfit — structured enough to keep you covered, but loose enough to cycle freely.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
We love a good peekaboo sleeve and bold, tropical print. This girl nails the combo with shoulder-grazing earrings.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
A boxy, cropped button-up easily balances out high-waisted, wide-legged trousers.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
This eclectic ensemble puts an emphasis on comfort with airy sleeves and easy sneaks, which means you can traipse around the shops on Queen Street West, sans blisters.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
Drapey T-shirt dresses are always a yes, not to mention perfect attire for lounging around Trinity Bellwoods Park.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
This Torontonian totally masters proportions with high-waisted white jeans, a lightweight tee, and an oversized, vintage denim jacket.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
With a floral five-panel hat, tattoo choker, halter tank, and neutral slides, this gal isn't one to shy away from trends. And check out those pants!
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
These fringe shorts are proof that minimalism doesn't have to be boring.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
Voluminous pieces on both top and bottom can be tricky, but this girl makes it look easy. The peek of skin from her off-the-shoulder blouse and the outfit's light color palette make a fabric-heavy look feel summer-appropriate.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
Never underestimate the power of printed socks and slides...or a rainbow tote.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
The attitude behind this jeans-and-tee combo makes it all the more awesome.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
Carwash pleats add a cool-girl, summery vibe to this modest skirt silhouette.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
With an of-the-moment straw bag, tropical jumpsuit, and '90s double buns, this outfit is ready to get some eyeballs.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
Give your old skinnies new life with a slip dress and slides.
Photographed by Jenna Marie Wakani.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
It's hard to believe that the day is finally here, but the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child script will hit bookshelves on Sunday, July 31. Of course, HP fans know that the 31st is both Harry and J.K. Rowling 's birthday. And the play that brings the script to life officially opens the night before. There has been a lot of news about the play and its script scattered around over the past few months, so here's a nice primer rounding up all the important things we already know about The Cursed Child.
It's a script — not a novel, and not a prequel. People were actually very confused about this at first, so Rowling clarified on Twitter (#NotANovel#NotAPrequel). So it is not an eighth Harry Potter book nor a Harry Potter prequel.
It's not only by Rowling. Respected British screenwriters and playright Jack Thorne and Tony Award-winning theater director John Tiffany helped Rowling pen the script, working off of an original story she wrote.
It picks up right where we left off. After the end of the final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, there was an epilogue that fast-forwarded to 19 years in the future. Harry and Ginny and Ron and Hermione were at Platform 9 3/4, seeing their children off to Hogwarts for the first time.
Harry is now an overworked family man. "It was always difficult being Harry Potter, and it isn’t much easier now that he is an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband, and the father of three school-age children," reads the official site.
Draco Malfoy is back. And the fan-favorite Slytherin has a son — named Scorpius, of course.
Things are going to get dark. "While Harry grapples with a past that refuses to stay where it belongs, his youngest son, Albus, must struggle with the weight of a family legacy he never wanted," it says on the play's site. "As past and present fuse ominously, both father and son learn the uncomfortable truth: sometimes, darkness comes from unexpected places."
You can get it as an eBook or hardcover. If you haven't ordered your copy yet, Amazon and Barnes & Noble are both selling digital and hardcover special editions (which you'll want to snag before they sell out).
The actual play is doing very well. The show has been doing preview performances since June. On Saturday, July 30, it will officially open at the Palace Theatre in London's West End. The cast is awesome, the reviews are great, and the attendance is crazy. The two-part show — which you can see in one night or two — is sold out until May 2017, according to the New York Times. The good news is it's just been announced that another 250,000 tickets are being released for the rest of the 2017 run.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
We're great fans of accessorizing in the bedroom. Au naturel stimulation is wonderful, but sex toys can do things that people just can't. The sex toy industry is now attracting an impressive $15 billion a year in global sales, and with a plethora of clever products at a range of prices on the market, we're spoiled for choice. This also means that smart shopping can be tricky.
To help you cut through the noise, we're curating a roundup of some of our favorite picks. We've got you covered with everything from silky lube that will take both your partnered and solo play to the next level to a bullet that packs a surprising punch. Click through to browse some seriously sexy finds, and check back as we continue to add more. You might discover something you never knew you needed. Happy shopping!
This innovative toy has become a must-have in the collection of many a pleasure connoisseur — or at least mine. The clitoral arm vibrates while the shaft both vibrates and moves back and forth for a double dose of G-spot and clitoral stimulation. It's a lot, but in a good way.
If phallic toys are not your thing, this classy five-speed vibrator very well might be. You can insert it if you want, but it's an equal delight when used externally.
Iroha Vibe Kushi Cream, $120, available at Babeland.
Photo: Courtesy of Iroha.
Leave the metal handcuffs to the movie sex scenes and invest in these silky restraints instead. They're much more seductive and comfortable.
Lovehoney Tease by Lovehoney Black Silky Restraints, $22.99, available at Lovehoney.
Photo: Courtesy of Lovehoney.
This compact silicone massaging bullet is versatile and quiet, with six vibration cadences to match your mood. It's also waterproof — shower sex, anyone?
B Swish Bnaughty Deluxe Waterproof Bullet, $30, available at SheVibe.
Photo: Courtesy of B Swish.
You may think that all lubes are created pretty much equal. You'd be wrong. This lube is to other lubes what silk underwear is to a spandex blend.
Trojan Continuous Silkiness Lubricant, $12.19, available at Target.
Photo: Courtesy of Trojan.
We love the modular concept behind the Ooh By Je Joue vibrator collection: One motor and many attachments make for some exciting combinations.
Ooh By Je Joue London Collection No. 1 & No. 3, $95, available at Fab.
Photo: Courtesy Of Fab.
Design-oriented sex toy company Crave's newest product is a sleek bullet vibe that is waterproof and USB rechargeable, with a recessed button that helps people avoid unintentionally changing the speed or turning it off.
Crave Bullet Vibrator, $45-75, available at Crave.
Photo: Courtesy Of Crave.
For the décor-minded, this gorgeous green aventurine dildo is just as alluring on your mantle as in your vagina.
Chakrubs The Original Indian Jade, $150, available at Chakrubs.
Photo: Courtesy of Chakrubs.
For those of you who are serious about your sex toy collections, the elegant, discreet Moi Box Deluxe is the perfect place to hygienically store and organize your treasures.
This blindfold isn't designed for using during sex, but many that are let in potentially scene-ruining amounts of light. If you're looking for total darkness in your bondage play, the Mindfold is for you.
Mindfold Sleep and Relaxation Eye Mask, $12, available at Amazon.
Photo: Courtesy of Mindfold.
The 10-inch Stronic Eins isn't for everyone, but those who like it love it. Rather than vibrating, this toy thrusts. Yes, like a penis. As one Stronic Eins enthusiast told me, "I lie there lazily like a dead fish and let it do the work!"
Fun Factory Stronic Eins, $189.99, available at Fun Factory.
Photo: Courtesy of Fun Factory.
This wand is the LBD of sex toys: reliable, makes you feel amazing, and belongs in everyone's collection.
Hitachi Magic Wand Rechargeable, $124.95, available at Babeland.
Photo: Courtesy Of Hitachi.
The Duet is ideal for women who like their toys on the subtler (and less phallic) side, and its unique, pronged shape offers a range of possible sensations for any body.
What's better than nipple clamps? Vibrating nipple clamps.
Good Vibrations Nipple Teasers Vibrating Nipple Clamps, $29, available at Good Vibrations.
Photo: Courtesy of Good Vibrations.
If you're interested in exploring anal play, these graduated-size beads on a flexible shaft offer an approachable, affordable point of entry.
California Exotic Novelties Booty Beads Silicone Anal Beads, $12, available at Good Vibrations.
Photo: Courtesy Of Good Vibrations.
Some penis rings are so inflexible as to be uncomfortable, but this stretchy, vibrating iteration is a joy for everyone involved.
Lovehoney Bionic Bullet 5 Function Vibrating Cock Ring, $22.99, available at Lovehoney.
Photo: Courtesy of Lovehoney.
This darling little toy has arms that nestle in your labia to provide you with hands-free clitoral stimulation.
Dame Products Eva, $105, available at Dame Products.
Photo: Courtesy of Eva.
We love this cheery little vibrator for its genius user interface: Instead of fumbling with buttons, you set its intensity by squeezing it. Harder squeezing equals more intense vibrations.
If you're a flogging newbie, remember to read up on technique and take it slow (and communicate!).
Bondage Boutique Intermediate Thick Suede Flogger, $30, available at Lovehoney.
Photo: Courtesy of Lovehoney.
This ejaculating, strap-on dildo has a sweet backstory: Its creator, Stephanie Berman, developed the toy so that she could get her wife pregnant without using the traditional and utterly unromantic turkey baster or needleless syringe. (Their daughter Isabella is about to celebrate her second birthday.) POP is now a favorite among both people looking to get pregnant and people who love ejaculation.
Berman Innovations POP, $139.95, available at POP.
Photo: Courtesy of Berman Innovations.
If you're interested in anal play but want to ease your way into it and work your way up, this set is for you.
Adam & Eve Booty Boot Camp Training Kit, $29.95, available at Adam & Eve.
Photo: Courtesy Of Adam & Eve.
A luxurious little blindfold that can double as a sleep mask, if you like.
Bijoux Indiscrets Shhh — Blindfold, $15.50, available at Bijoux Indiscrets.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF BIJOUX INDiscrets.
When burned, massage candles transform into oil that can heat up your skin-to-skin contact. Can everything in our life smell like Babeland's smoky, delicious Tobacco Sandalwood scent please? (Just remember not to use massage candles with latex products, such as condoms.)
Babeland Massage Candle, $6 to $16, available at Babeland.
Photo: Courtesy of Babeland.
Because bondage tape sticks to itself rather than skin, it's secure while you use it and easy to take off afterward — no complicated rope-tying or -untying required.
The Pleasure Chest Pleasure Tape, $9.95, available at The Pleasure Chest.
Photo: Courtesy of The Pleasure Chest.
We were first drawn to this toy because of its adorable seahorse shape. Turns out, it's also the perfect shape for hitting both your G-spot and clit.
Fun Factory Delight Click N Charge, $119.95, available at The Pleasure Chest.
Photo: Courtesy Of The Pleasure Chest.
Yeah, the name is unfortunate, but this thing works wonders. Its gentle sucking draws blood to the clit, which can lead to explosive orgasms (yes, plural).
Womanizer Womanizer Rechargeable Clitoral Stimulator, $189, available at Good Vibrations.
Full-body bondage with minimal set-up: All you need is a bed.
Sportsheets Under The Bed Restraint System, $76.99, available at Sportsheets.
A dab of this all-natural formula delivers a pleasant, tingling sensation where it counts. Your clit, to be specific. (Again, don't use this with latex.)
Sliquid Organics Stimulating O Gel, $3.50 to $19, available at Babeland.
Photo: Courtesy of Babeland.
If food in the bedroom is your thing, you'll love this rich milk chocolate body paint.
The Kama Sutra Company Lover's Body Paint — Chocolate Caress, $13.99, available at DermStore.
Photo: Courtesy of The Kama Sutra Company.
We're super amped to try the Lioness vibrator when it's out in the fall. This smart vibe records vaginal temperature and motion and connects with an app that delivers users insight into their sex lives — from how long it takes them to get aroused to when in their menstrual cycles sex might feel best. Since the fundraising campaign for it was launched on Indiegogo on February 9, it has already attracted $76,000, which is $26,000 more than its initial goal of $50,000. Hop over to Indiegogo to claim yours.
We're not shy about our love of penis rings. This strong and flexible version can take simultaneous orgasm during opposite-sex intercourse from pipe dream to reality.
Good Vibrations Bound To Please Neoprene Restraints, $17.00, available at Good Vibrations.
Photo: Courtesy of Good Vibrations.
Deliciously weighty, silky-smooth anal plugs in three sizes or avant-garde conversation pieces for your mantel? You decide.
Njoy Plugs, $60, available at Early2Bed.
Photo: Courtesy of Early2Bed.
Designed for use during intercourse, We-Vibe's Fling is flexible, quiet, and USB-rechargeable — and oh, did we mention that you can even buy it at CVS?
This isn't a sex toy, but it will do wonders for your sex life. This comprehensive tome from Babeland founders Clare Cavanah and Rachel Venning covers everything from birth control to BDSM; its illustrated sex-position guides will bust you out of your bedroom rut, stat.
BabelandMoregasm: Babeland's Guide to Mind-Blowing Sex, $22.50, available at Babeland.
Image: Courtesy of Babeland.
This vegan, latex-friendly herbal infusion heightens the sensitivity of your clit. It can help you reach orgasm more easily (and feel like a tingly goddess in the process). Start with a pea-sized amount, because it's powerful.
Wicked Sensual Care Awaken Stimulating Clitoral Massaging Gel, $19.99, available at PinkCherry.
Image: Courtesy of Wicked Sensual Care.
This powerful, ribbed vibrator pulsates and thrusts to mimic the sensations of intercourse.
Fun Factory STRONIC DREI, $189.99, available at Fun Factory.
Photo: Courtesy of Fun Factory.
We love the flexibility and texture of jelly-rubber penis rings, but we don't love the toxic plastic softeners in them. Enter Jimmyjane's elastomer ring, which mimics the feel of jelly rubber with none of the phthalates. Use with a water-based lube and go chase that simultaneous orgasm.
Jimmyjane Iconic Ring, $20, available at Jimmyjane.
Photo: Courtesy of Jimmyjane.
If you like your lube and arousal gel organic and body-safe, you'll love this duo — and if you haven't yet tried arousal gel, we strongly encourage it.
Jimmyjane SLIP & ZING, $25, available at Jimmyjane.
Photo: Courtesy of Jimmyjane.
Instead of thinking of your G-spot as a magical love button that will drive you wild if only you can find it, think of it as a region of sensitive tissue located on the "front" (anterior) wall of the vagina that can feel wonderful when stimulated. Ask your partner to make a "come hither" motion with his or her fingers inside you, or give this boomerang-shaped baby a whirl. Its ergonomic design makes solo G-spot adventures a cinch.
You know that your clit is where the party's at and you're a fan of the personal-massager style of vibrator, but the heavy-duty Magic Wand packs a bit too much of a punch for you. If this is you, we've found your match. Rumble is a lightweight vibe with mid-range power that could not be easier to operate, and will get the job done.
Can't choose between labial, clitoral, and G-spot stimulation? Thanks to this vibrator's thicker shaft, clitoral arm, and curvy shape, you don't have to. (We're fond of the hot-pink one ourselves.)
Fun Factory Miss Bi G5 Silicone Vibrator, $149.99, available at Good Vibrations.
Photo: Courtesy of Fun Factory.
We love anything that does double-duty, and these beautiful cuffs will adorn your wrists until you're ready to repurpose them as restraints.
Crave Leather Cuff Bracelet, $62, available at Crave.
Photo: Courtesy of Crave.
For comfortable restraints that won't buckle under pressure, ditch the cheesy metal handcuffs and don these easy-on, easy-off Velcro ones. They're beloved by bondage newbies and experts alike.
Sportsheets Sex and Mischief Black Beginner's Handcuffs, $14.99, available at Sportsheets.
Photo: Courtesy of Sportsheets.
This curvy, weighty toy is crafted for mind-blowing G-spot or prostate stimulation. It doesn't hurt that it looks so elegant you could display it on a coffee table.
Have we mentioned that we love lube? Well, we do, and this formula is one of the best. Use it during partnered sex and masturbation, and even as a chafe protectant or styling product (yes, really!).
You don't need a partner to have a thunderous G-spot orgasm. This sleek vibrator's curved, flattened tip does just fine on its own — but feel free to invite a third party to operate it.
If you're into the idea of public sex but aren't looking to get caught (or charged), consider a toy you can wear anywhere, without detection. This slim, curved vibe comes with a black thong with a sneaky custom pocket.
OhMiBod Club Vibe 2.OH Panty Vibe, $79, available at OhMiBod.
Photo: Courtesy Of OhMiBod.
Kegel newbies especially will appreciate how this trio of weights allows the user to start small and then build up to the pelvic floor of a superhero.
When La La Land hits theaters in December, it will mark the third time Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone have, right before our eyes, been the coolest couple who've never actually been together.
We watched them in Crazy, Stupid, Love. We watched... okay, we watched the trailer for Gangster Squad and decided to pass, but still! Ahead of La La Land 's premiere, we need to know how these two friends maintain such uncanny chemistry.
Glenn Ficarra, co-director of Crazy, Stupid, Love, spoke to Entertainment Weekly about why Gosling and Stone have such a unique appeal.
According to Ficarra, many actresses who read for Stone's role in the 2011 film were too intimidated by Gosling to be playful. "Ryan walked in, immediately flubbed his first line, " Ficarra told EW. "And [Stone] just laid into him, like, ‘Oh, you’re killing this buddy.’ She was the only one not to be intimidated by him, and in that moment John and I knew, ‘Alright this is it, she’s right for the part.’ She continued that, and they just got along really well. They have a very similar sense of humor...they riff off each other really well."
Ficarra's theory about why the pair works so well together on screen? Their friendship and shared sense of humor run deep.
"They love each other in real life, and they get on like a house on fire," he told EW. "It wasn’t a lot of heavy lifting on our part. It’s making a move to hire the right chemistry."
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
If there's anything we've learned from entering the real world, it's that rent is crazy expensive. So is food. So is a phone plan. So are things like underwear and socks.
This is particularly shocking for anyone who grew up with some semblance of wealth, only to suddenly find themselves paying their own way. Striking out on your own and seeing the realities of the world can be jarring, especially for a young twentysomething accustomed to living a certain lifestyle.
So, when an AskReddit thread popped up discussing the experience of sliding from an upper-class lifestyle to a low-to-middle-class lifestyle, we were curious to see what users revealed. Ahead, five of the most revealing confessions from the people of Reddit. Share your own experiences in the comments.
I couldn't work out for ages why I had less money than the people on similar wages than me.
"...I grew up in a upper-middle-class family never wanting for anything, and now I'm in a lower-middle-class job mostly working with people who didn't have as affluent an upbringing as me. [This is] partly [because of] my choice of career and partly [because I don't have] the drive to work my way up in organizations I've worked for.
"I couldn't work out for ages why I had less money than the people on similar wages than me. They're never paycheck-to-paycheck like I am, but why?
"Simply because I'm used to having more. I go on a few holidays a year, but they'll save up for a big one. My taste in food and drink is more expensive and so is my taste in activities, I moved away from home for uni and then again [for] work, so I often travel to see friends, which I've never considered a holiday. I'm frivolous and I didn't realize it 'til I was in my late 20s." — realyak
Now, I'm 21, just started working this year and it's hard right now.
"Like others in the thread, I grew up never needing for anything, taking amazing vacations, etc. Now, I'm 21, just started working this year and it's hard right now. My parent still help me with rent. (They'll give me less and less the more I start to earn. I'm lucky they didn't just stopped helping.)
"I'm freelance, so some months I make really good money for my age/experience, but some months I make less and it's scary. I know it's mostly an issue of finding more companies that will call me when they need someone, and in a few years I should have either found ~10 studios to work for regularly, or gotten a steady job at one studio. It's just the beginning that is scary for me. Seing the people I work with that are over 30/40 makes me understand that they were once like me and now are successful and earning good money. I hope it's the same for me." — Haelx
I kept hearing that line from 'Lord Of The Rings': 'You are a lesser son of greater men.'
"I am the youngest child of a doctor who did well from the 1950s on and played it smart with his money. Dad is rich.
"Mom's parents were both doctors and, in fact, [grandpa] was up for a Nobel Prize in medicine in the '50s, but ultimately got a Lasker Award, instead. He and [grandma] traveled the globe doing research. Our home was filled with things from Africa, Brazil, and god knows where.
"Well, I'm not cut out to be a doctor. I went to college to be a mechanical engineer. You know what got me? When I was making my best, I got $63K; and I've been laid off since 2009. I kept hearing that line from Lord Of The Rings: 'You are a lesser son of greater men.' It was a massive mindfuck.
"Over the past few years, I have dealt with that. I have not worked due to a combination of a shit economy that doesn't need engineers and the fact that both of my parents are quite ill, as are my wife's parents. As I haven't been working, I'm the guy who can come charging in at a moment's notice and take care of crises — everything from getting my in-laws packed and moved to the assisted-living facility to moving in with dad for a few months when mom had her stroke and he was feeling horrible guilt about sending her into the nursing home because he couldn't take care of her.
"And you know what? I'm glad that it has worked out this way. The circumstances that allowed dad to get wealthy are not likely to happen again in my lifetime. Grandma and grandpa were geniuses who did fantastic things for the field of medicine, but at a cost to family life. I can't realistically compare myself to any of them — it's a different time in history. And let's face it, not everyone can win a Nobel prize. But I am doing something that they couldn't: I'm taking care of two sets of parents in their decline, helping them to retain their comfort and dignity as much as possible, and helping my kids deal with it emotionally.
"I am dependent upon my wife's income, at least for now, which has been hard to wrap my head around as an American man. But let's face it: If I were working as an engineer, would I have likely set the world on fire with my career? No. But can I set an example for my kids on how to love and support your family? Hell yes. And that will have a much more measurable impact on society than working as an engineer.
"I have been incredibly fortunate to have married a woman capable of supporting us both, obviously, but don't imagine for a moment that I don't work. I do. I just don't draw a paycheck from it. But we are both very grateful that I have this opportunity.
"TL;DR: money is not the most important thing in life." — oldforger
"I know, deep down, that I've had maybe 40% of the success that my parents had."
"I lived an upper-class life growing up, but my dad was a farmer in his youth. It was odd, in a way. My parents would do things for us every great once in a while that nobody else could do...I went to Europe for three weeks when I was 17 on vacation, for example. But the other 99% of the time, my parents were obsessed with living frugally. I never really knew they had money, but the signs were there. They were very religious and conservative...and happy. Our problems seemed big at the time, but we were happy and blessed. My biggest concern was that I felt like I was somehow living in a bubble of safety and security that didn't represent the real world, and I had to get out of it as quickly as possible if I wanted any independence.
"Fast-forward to today, I'm going on 40, living a middle-class life. I'm about to buy my first house and I'm scared shitless of the debt. I've got a little boy and he's nowhere near living how I was growing up. He's happy, doesn't have a care in the world. But I see the differences every day. We can't just go places and do things without planning for it financially a year ahead of time. The bubble has burst for me...and you realize that life is, on many levels, a fucking brutal contest of assholes trying to survive as well as possible. And every year, the gap between what I had and what my son has widens. On the surface, I feel like I've done well: We'll have a nice house soon; my son's getting a good education; etc.
"But I know, deep down, that I've had maybe 40% of the success that my parents had. And that's all I'll ever have, more than likely. It makes you question things and changes your perception, for sure." — Beam7
I slunk back into my college town and took on jobs that I'd always considered beneath me: jobs with tips, jobs with hats and aprons.
"TL;DR Family lost it all, I ran off to live on minimum wage and learned some shit.
"My father was a successful business owner and my mother dedicated herself full-time to raising my sister and me. When we kids were finally both safely in college with good financial aid in place, my parents decided to take a big risk and move across the country to work on a fixer-upper property, which they hoped to get running as a motel.
"The next three years were the hardest my family has experienced. I sunk into a depression that led to withdrawing from school one or two credits away from a degree. My father invited me to come and help out with his new project, and so I went there with my fancy almost-college education and watched impotently as bad decisions, a bad market, and bad luck ate away my parents' life savings, month after insolvent month.
"With the inevitable foreclosure only weeks away, I told my parents I'd go back to finish school and start paying my own way. I was cutting and running, but my parents never blamed me; they only blamed themselves for not being able to give me gas money to get there. They went with the lie and wished me the best, thanked me for my help, and waved goodbye with brave smiles. I only made it a couple miles down the 95 before I had to pull into a gas station and cry into the steering wheel, with the odds and ends of what had been a nice upper-middle-class upbringing packed in my slowly aging car.
"I slunk back into my college town and took on jobs that I'd always considered beneath me: jobs with tips, jobs with hats and aprons. Part-time work at restaurants kept me afloat as I finished my degree. As I finally started learning how to manage my own life, I realized how much I had yet to learn about living and about other people. I never knew how EBT can mean the difference between a month that feels okay and a month of feeling vaguely hungry all the time. I never knew the amount of petty, sometimes unthinking injustice many employees endure from managers and customers, simply because there is no other choice if you want that paycheck. And I never knew that a person's level of education or income has very little to do with the worth of their character. Some of the best friends I have now are people I honestly would have dismissed as townies in my undergrad years.
"Next month, I'll be starting a full-time job with benefits, with enough pay to maybe help my parents out as they face retirement age. I thought about cutting up my EBT card, but now I think I'll keep it in my wallet to remind me of the wolf that is always at the door — and of the people who live their lives beating it back with brooms." — punnilinguist
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Decorating for one is hard enough, but decorating for yourself and a partner? In a totally new space with an open floor plan? Even less simple.
So when video producer and R29 fashion plate Annie Georgia Greenberg approached me about designing her space, I knew I'd have my work cut out for me. She'd just moved from a tiny apartment in Chinatown to a much more spacious abode in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn — and she'd brought along her boyfriend, Jack, and a chunk of mismatched furniture.
We immediately got to work figuring out the couple's inspirations. We made a pinboard where Annie and I could share reference images that were then used to inform the style of each piece we brought into the apartment.
The end result is a Brooklyn bungalow spin on California ranch living. Flashes of high-fashion femininity are balanced out by wood tones and earthy textures for an inviting space that makes use of Annie and Jack's favorite pieces of decor and art.
Click through to find out how we did it.
Before
The open floor plan of the apartment was a welcome challenge. We focused on scale and proportion to get the setup just right, since it had to function as both a living and dining room for Annie and Jack.
We didn't paint the walls and didn't alter any of the wood finishes; the high ceilings and ample natural light set the tone for our SoCal cool makeover.
Photographed by Erica Gannet.
After
The first order of business was finding the perfect sofa. After much trial and error we were delighted to score this incredible Rachel Ashwell Simple Sofa in a slubby linen, accented with vintage velvet pillows made from salvaged textiles Rachel collects herself.
Comfort and functionality were top of mind — Annie and Jack like to post up for some serious Netflix bingeing — and this down-filled gem ticked all the right boxes (and fit the space!). We grounded the area with a light gray Lulu & Georgia rug and chose a concrete cocktail table from High Fashion Home to round out the organic modern tone of the room. Linen, wood, and stone: a winning trifecta.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
We worked with Uprise Art to bring in prints that reflect the couple's varied tastes, including this incredible piece over the sofa by Millie Tibbs.
We left one section of the wall blank per Annie's request — a special spot to fill in later.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
The wide, low-slung cocktail table showcases Annie's collection of coffee table books, accented with a succulent and colorful snuff box from Chen Chen & Kai Williams. And there's still plenty of room for guests to put their feet up.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
Along the other side of the room we created a dynamic assemblage of art and curios. The works on the wall are from Annie and Jack's personal collection.
The Joybird armchair provides additional seating when guests are over, while a grouping of staggered height end tables from Everything But The House provides the perfect perch for plants near the sofa. We brought in a much-needed floor lamp from Shop Candelabra as an alternative to overhead lighting.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
The large TV called for an equally outsized credenza, and this walnut wonder from Joybird provides the perfect mix of closed cabinetry and shelving.
While initially we worried about the differing wood tones throughout the apartment, we found that they complemented each other well once the room came together. We left the space above the TV free for additional shelving, should it be needed in the future, while another tiny table from High Fashion Home provides space for a reading light in the dedicated "book nook."
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
A pair of mirrored end tables from Everything But The House provide an extra dash of elegance and function.
And yes, that is a derriere atop the taller one, one of a pair of cheeky bookends by artist Meegan Barnes.
A photograph shot by a friend of Annie's hangs on the wall next to one of Robert Otto Epstein 's figurative portraits inspired by fashion illustrations — perfect for our resident clotheshorse.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
Before
The dining area was underwhelming, to say the least. The table wasn't the right size or style and there wasn't anything to help visually separate this corner of the room from the rest of the space.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
We brought in a glass-topped, circular dining table that makes this section of the room easier to navigate (more corners, more problems), and plants from Ikea and The Sill to liven up the area.
A set of four gorgeous, leather and wood dining chairs from Anthropologie tie in with the room's focus on natural materials and nod to the mid-century modern aesthetic Annie and Jack both love. Tabletop accessories from Kikkerland and Chen Chen & Kai Williams encourage guests to play with their food.
But, of course, it's the large scale painting by artist Jen Wink Hays that truly makes the space!
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
A Lulu & Georgia bar cart nestled beside the sofa helps to further delineate the dining area from the living space. A wooden flamingo from Kenya reigns over the couple's drinkware.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
A fashion editor's home shoot wouldn't be complete without a little fashion. Yes, even at her own dinner table. Enter: the perfect moment for this Acne Studios gown and Marni sandals.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
Before
The bedroom was an unimaginative affair, with a low platform bed and...not much else.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
We reimagined the space as a luxury retreat, the centerpiece of which is this gorgeous upholstered bed from Pottery Barn, outfitted in complementary linen bedding (also Pottery Barn) in a light charcoal that ties in with the gray hues in the main living area.
Moving the bed away from the window helped the flow of the room and allowed for dual nightstands and lamps — actual #apartmentgoals Annie has had for years. These tables are from Lulu & Georgia and the hand-hammered brass lamps are from Shop Candelabra.
A minimal piece by the artist Alyson Provax hangs above the bed, setting the mood for peace of mind.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
Plants from The Sill line the window along with candles and curios from Annie's personal collection.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
The serene yet lively aesthetic that we established in the main living area continues into the bedroom. Pretty sure we can call this a #PinterestSuccess?
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
On the other side of the room we re-styled Annie's existing credenza with accessories and sensible storage options — baskets, trays, vintage hat boxes — perfect for small trinkets and toiletries.
We also hung the mirror to maximize space on top of the dresser and to reflect the natural light.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
Before
Jack's office was inefficient and cluttered, playing host to a variety of Annie's old furniture from her previous apartment.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
Now, the space is multifunctional, with both a sitting and standing desk as well as a comfy leather sofa, which was moved in from the living room.
We created a gallery wall to one side of the window to add visual interest and placed a vintage map (a gift to the couple from Annie's mom, a teacher) above the sofa. Last but not least, we brought in a low-light plant to help hide the computer.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
The Stand Desk was a must for Jack, who is a filmmaker. The X-Files poster was another must, obviously, sourced from Jack's personal collection.
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
"Making sure the space worked for both of us was important," Annie says. "But when it works, you just know! Y'all come back now, ya hear?"
Photographed by Nicholas Calcott.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Update: On Friday morning, six additional state employees were criminally charged in connection with the Flint water crisis, The Detroit Free Press reported.
Those charged, according to testimony presented in Flint's district court, are: Nancy Peeler, Corinne Miller, and Robert Scott from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services workers; and Liane Shekter-Smith, Adam Rosenthal, and Patrick Cook from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.
Update: May 10, 2016: Natasha Henderson, a former Flint, MI, city administrator, filed a lawsuit Monday. The suit claims Flint's mayor, Karen Weaver, redirected money intended to help the water crisis to her own account, rather than sending it to the Community Foundation of Greater Flint's official fund. Henderson alleges that she was fired after she asked the city attorney to investigate the claims in February. She claims the funds were redirected to the "Karenabout Flint" website, which isn't registered as a political action committee in state records, Michigan Live reports. Henderson seeks "unpaid wages, [and] compensatory and punitive damages" from the city, according to Michigan Live.
This story was originally published on April 20, 2016.
Charges have been filed against three officials involved in the Flint water crisis, which exposed many residents of Flint, MI, to lead-contaminated water.
The Detroit Free Press reported on Wednesday morning that criminal charges had been filed against two officials in the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Mike Prysby and Stephen Busch, as well as city official Mike Glasgow, Flint's laboratory and water quality supervisor.
The charges are related to the processes used to test homes for lead contamination, which prosecutors are alleging produced artificially low readings. Officials say that the city incorrectly documented tests from low-risk homes with low lead readings as belonging to higher-risk homes, and in fact did not test homes with lead pipes which were most at risk for contamination. The charges allege that Glasgow signed a document falsely claiming that the homes where the city tested tap water all had lead service lines.
Though the lead-contaminated water crisis began in 2014, it only came to national attention in December 2015, when Mayor Karen Weaver declared a state of emergency. A few weeks later, Gov. Rick Snyder declared a state of emergency in the county, activating the National Guard to help water distribution efforts. Official response to the situation came under criticism, with allegations indicating the crisis was initially ignored due to Flint’s majority Black population. Snyder has accused critics, including Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, of politicizing the crisis for personal gain.
Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette is expected to elaborate on the charges on Wednesday afternoon, according to The Detroit Free Press. More charges are likely to be filed as the investigation continues.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Hillary Clinton made history last night when she officially became the first female presidential nominee of a major political party. While the most riveting aspect of the night was, of course, that powerful speech, her outfit was also quite significant. The crisp white pantsuit did more than make Clinton look strong and pretty damn radiant. The outfit choice was quietly loaded with feminist history: American suffragettes frequently wore white while participating in demonstrations or marches rallying for women's right to vote in the early 1900s.
The connection between Clinton's all-white getup and feminist trailblazers that earned us our voting rights was quickly spotted and shared on social media during the presidential candidate's speech. The outfit's nod to feminist history isn't solely stateside, in fact: The hue's association with the fight for voting parity actually started across the pond, as British suffragettes wore white, in addition to purple and green, as Quartz pointed out.)
Some Twitter users linked Clinton's all-white look with another history-making female politician from over three decades ago. The country's first-ever female vice-presidential nominee also wore white while making her nomination speech in 1984:
Clinton, as the first major party female nominee, is wearing white, the color of suffragettes. As did Gerry Ferraro in VP speech in 1984.
Sure, it was yet another pantsuit. And after word spread yesterday that Anna Wintour has been low-key helping Clinton with her campaign wardrobe, we pondered the style possibilities for her big nomination acceptance speech. Clinton was expected to wear an American designer, Business of Fashion noted. But it seemed possible the pantsuit-favoring politician would go off-script, style-wise, with a rare appearance of a dress, maybe by a familiar name from Wintour's wheelhouse, such as Oscar de la Renta.
But Clinton was wise to stick with a familiar silhouette. Her clothing didn't need to compete with the strength of her words. There's still too much time spent talking about the outfits of politicians' wives; admittedly, we're not immune to this. And there isn't any precedent set for how to talk about a female presidential candidate's clothing. Is it even okay to talk about it at all, considering how little we discuss the suits of Clinton's male counterparts and male POTUS hopefuls that have come before her? (Along those lines, the "FLOTUS fashion" treatment that Bill Clinton has been getting is pretty fantastic, particularly this brilliant take, also on Quartz.)
But the mere hue of Clinton's pantsuit last night subtly, successfully made a statement. And it's a statement, a nod to history, that couldn't have been more appropriate for the occasion.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Note: This article was originally published on May 26, 2015.
Today, in news that is super obvious: Renesmee Cullen is turning out to be a lovely young woman. Actress Mackenzie Foy played the hyper-aging, vampiric offspring of Edward Cullen and Bella Swan in The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn (parts 1 and 2). She was just 11 when she was cast. While it hasn't been that long since the final Twilight film, Foy stepped out at the Cannes Film Festival this weekend, and it's amazing how quickly she's grown up.
Foy was at Cannes to attend the premiere of The Little Prince. According to IMDb, she voices the role of The Little Girl. The animated retelling of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's childhood tale also features James Franco as The Fox, Marion Cotillard as The Rose, and Jeff Bridges as The Pilot.
Mackenzie Foy is turning 15 this November, and she looked every bit like a little princess (sorry; we couldn't resist) on the red carpet at Cannes. Her career hasn't slowed down since the Twilight films. She played young Murph in Interstellar and was there to support her movie dad Matthew McConaughey when he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame last year.
If this photo is any indication, Mackenzie Foy is ready to embark on a long and successful career.
Photo: AGF s.r.l./Rex/REX USA.
Like this post? There's more. Get tons of celeb goodness, insider intel, movie and TV news, and more on the Refinery29 Entertainment Facebook page!
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
True love has no age limit, and this adorable Texas couple proved it with one very special photoshoot in honor of their 63rd wedding anniversary.
Joe and Wanda Nelson first began dating back when Joe was in college and Wanda was in high school. Their families knew each other, and one day Joe stopped his car when he saw Wanda walking down the street. He offered her a ride home, and the rest is history. The couple became engaged on December 28, 1950 and were married two years later, when Joe graduated college.
And now, 63 years later, their granddaughter Shalyn Nelson decided to hold a photoshoot featuring Joe and Wanda recreating the magic of their wedding day. According to Nelson, in addition to celebrating her grandparent's relationship, her goal was to show that love is a long journey that often takes effort. She said, "We are so wrapped up in seeing the 'instant-Polaroid pictures,' and not the huge hand-painted masterpiece of marriage that takes time, patience, passion, attention to detail, and hard work."
This shoot is part of Nelson's ongoing project Love, The Nelsons. For the project, she is traveling around to interview older couples about their relationships and take their photos. She's documenting her journey on Instagram with the hashtags #lovethenelsonsproject and #oldlovebook. We think this sweet photoshoot with her Mamaw and Papaw was an amazing place to start. See some of the best photos of Joe and Wanda below. (BuzzFeed)
Photo: Courtesy of Love, The Nelsons.Photo: Courtesy of Love, The Nelsons.Photo: Courtesy of Love, The Nelsons.Photo: Courtesy of Love, The Nelsons.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Looks like Joe Biden has chosen his post-vice presidential career: actor.
According to Entertainment Weekly, the VP is set to guest-star as himself on an upcoming episode of popular crime drama Law & Order: SVU. He will be applauding both the Special Victims Unit and Lieutenant Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) on her work clearing out the New York City rape kit backlog.
This is a case of art imitating life, as back in June Biden and Hargitay spoke at the White House's United State of Women Summit about sexual violence against women and the rape kit backlog in the nation.
Hargitay is an avid advocate for survivors of sexual assault; she doesn't just play one on TV. Her charity, the Joyful Heart Foundation, has been up and running since 2004, and Biden was previously honored by the organization for his work in fighting domestic violence.
Biden's SVU appearance won't be the first time America's kooky uncle has graced the small screen. He has also made a cameo as himself on Amy Poehler's Parks and Recreation.
Good to know everybody's favorite detective will finally be getting the recognition she deserves.
Check out Law & Order: SVU when it returns for its 18th season Wednesday, September 21, at 9 p.m. ET.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Earlier this month we predicted we'd see more and more halal beauty products hit the market — and we hate to say we told you so, but well, we told you so. In August, nail polish brand Orly will be launching a slew of new "breathable" nail polishes that practicing Muslims can wear.
Prior to the creation of porous nail polish, devout Muslim women and men were not allowed to wear nail polish because it interferes with wudu or ablution — the Islamic procedure of washing parts of the body before prayer. "If something is blocking [your nails], that is not acceptable," says Habib Ghanim, director of ISWA Halal Certification Department and president of USA Halal Chamber of Commerce. "When wudu is performed, water has to touch every part of your body. If you have nail polish on that is non-porous, that is not considered halal."
Orly's nail polishes have similar technology to that of a contact lens. "[The nail polish] allows oxygen and hydration to pass through," the brand shared in a press release. Since water is able to penetrate the polish and reach the nail bed, Muslim people can wear it and still perform ablution. Orly is also working toward obtaining halal-certification in Europe. The process should be complete in three to four weeks, according to representatives from the brand.
While nails do not necessarily need to "breathe" to be healthy, Orly's Breathable polishes contain a host of conditioning ingredients, such as vitamin B5, argan oil, and vitamin C. The range also includes 18 polishes that come in a variety of shades from soft nudes to deep plums — which means they've got a wide appeal, too. But, it's great to see a popular American brand specifically embracing a group of consumers who comprise over 23% of the global population. Let's hope more major brands are taking notes.
Orly Breathable Treatment + Color, $8.99, available in August at Ulta Beauty.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Ed. note: We will continue to update this post with the latest iPhone 7 news.
Update July 29, 2016: Part of the mystery surrounding the new iPhone isn't just about what cool features it will have, but also when we'll actually be able to get our hands on it. This week, reporter Evan Blass, who has previously leaked accurate iPhone data, revealed a possible on-sale date. According to Blass, pre-orders will begin on September 9.
The news, picked up by BGR, implies that the big Apple announcement will come earlier that week, if Apple sticks with its typical schedule of reveal, pre-order, and in-store availability. Apple's large September event tends to come shortly after Labor Day, so a September 9 pre-order date would align with that timing. That also correlates with another rumor — that the iPhone will officially go on sale September 16.
Of course, in true super-secret Apple fashion, nothing is really confirmed until event invites land in reporters' inboxes.
Update July 19, 2016: This week, we've got some degree of corroboration for one of the first rumors we heard about the next iPhone. Back in March, reports suggested there might be three new iPhone models: an iPhone 7 and two versions of the iPhone 7 Plus. Now there's a photograph that seems to back up that idea.
The image, shared on French site NoWhereElse, shows three models of the phone labeled as iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, and iPhone 7 Pro. The iPhone 7 is the smallest of the three (about the same size as the iPhone 6s), while the iPhone 7 Plus and 7 Pro about the same size as the iPhone 6s Plus. The main differentiator between the Plus and Pro in the photo appears on the back of the phone.
The iPhone 7 Pro sports a dual-lens camera (something that was also previously rumored) as well as three dots along the bottom of the phone. That may be a smart connector, a feature already available on the iPad Pro used to connect it to keyboard accessories. Of course, as Mashable points out, the so-called iPhone 7 Pro and iPhone 7 Plus in the photo may just be two different prototypes that Apple played with for the larger phone, and come September, only one may be available.
Update July 6, 2016: An image shared by tech site BGR reportedly shows us once and for all what the new iPhone 7 could actually look like. If this photo is legitimate, it confirms earlier reports of a larger camera, missing headphone jack, and a change in antenna line design (no more white lines striping the top and bottom portions of the phone). The photo originated from Chinese website Baidu. Considering iPhone production should be ramping up soon for the phone's fall launch, there is a possibility this could be an accurate look at what to expect.
A leaked presentation slide from Foxconn, Apple's key manufacturing partner, also appears to suggest that the phone will finally support wireless charging, as well as water and dust-resistant components.
And then a recent report from The Wall Street Journal suggests that storage for the new iPhone will begin at 32 GB, as opposed to the current 16 GB starting option. This is great news: It means much more room for your photos and apps, and, thankfully, fewer low-on-storage notifications.
Update June 10, 2016: Is Apple debuting a new hue with the iPhone 7? Rumors from the Japanese Mac blog, Macotakara, suggest that "Space Gray" is no more, and instead will be replaced by a dark blue option. However, we're skeptical. Since Apple has Space Gray in both its iPad and Macbook lines, if anything, it seems more likely that a dark blue option would be an addition, rather than a replacement, unless the color change is very subtle — more of a blue-gray sheen.
Update May 27, 2016: Two, maybe dueling rumors about the size and looks of the next iPhone have cropped up. According to purported iPhone 7 cases encountered by Pocket-Lint, the next iPhone will be exactly the same size as the current 6 and 6s. But according to one of Apple's suppliers, Catcher Technology, the next iPhone won't have that brushed aluminum exterior we've grown used to. Instead, one iPhone model will be wrapped entirely in glass, à la the Samsung Galaxy S7, in a move to make it more "distinctive," Catcher Technology's CEO said. If both of these rumors were true (big "if"), it could be that the iPhone 7 remains similar in design to the iPhone 6s, while the 7 Plus gets a glass facade circled by a metal frame. Sure does sound like the old iPhone 4 design, so we're curious to see how this plays out.
Update May 23, 2016: Well, this is new. French site NoWhereElse, which has published prior iPhone 7 rumors, released new images revealing an extra pair of speakers on the iPhone 7. The photos also show a larger camera hole, which fits with earlier speculation about a high-quality dual-lens camera. As CNET points out, the extra pair of speakers would make the new iPhone more like Apple's iPads, which also have pairs of speakers along their top and bottom edges. More powerful beats? We're in.
Update May 11, 2016: The latest rumored images of the iPhone 7 agree with much of what has been speculated so far. The blueprints, leaked by @OnLeaks to uSwitch, come from Catcher Technology, where other rumored images have come from, as well. They show two models, a larger iPhone 7 Plus (or iPhone 7 Pro, perhaps) to replace the iPhone 6s Plus and a smaller iPhone 7 to replace the iPhone 6s. Both models lack a headphone jack, which means that wireless headphones will be a must. Only the 7 Plus shows the high-quality dual-lens camera, but uSwitch notes that both designs no longer feature a metal ring around the protruding cameras.
Now, the newest rumored feature of the new iPhone is a Smart Connector on the back of the iPhone 7 Plus, which would be compatible with iPad Pro accessories, such as the Smart Keyboard. The keyboard is handy, because it doesn't require switches, plugs, or, most exciting of all, pairing — it just snaps into the iPad and the rest takes care of itself. It would definitely be interesting to see an iPhone take on this feature...
Update March 14, 2016: We may have a first glimpse of the (supposed) iPhone 7, thanks to French site NoWhereElse, which has shared accurate leaks in the past. It looks largely similar to the iPhone 6/6s, except for those white antenna bands that stripe the back. In the photo, reportedly sourced from Apple's metal chassis manufacturer Catcher Technology, those white antenna lines are less visible, only ringing the edge of the phone's rear casing. This photo also shows a larger camera cut-out. This would support rumors that the camera may not protrude as much as the current iPhone, but not that Apple's going with the fancy dual-lens system previously reported.
If you held off buying a new iPhone 6s last year, you may have made a smart call. Reports about Apple's next iPhone are starting to roll in — and it sounds like it could be a big upgrade.
A report from KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, an often-accurate Apple analyst, says that two models of the iPhone 7 Plus are in development right now. The higher-end model will include an amazing new dual-lens camera system incorporating technology Apple gained when it acquired Lynx Imaging last year. The camera itself would be smaller (so no more protruding lens on the back) and would have better light sensitivity. In particular, it would offer better low-light performance.
Other reports suggest that all models of the iPhone 7 will be thinner than the current 6s. It will also ditch the 3.5mm headphone jack on the bottom — to listen to your tunes, you'll have to stream over Bluetooth or use an adapter to play audio through the Lightning port. It could also come with stereo speakers, making it a better option for on-the-go video watching. It will also likely include a bigger battery. There is no phone in existence that can boast having too much battery life.
Renders Courtesy Yasser Farahi (top) and Marek Weidlich (bottom).
Artist renderings of the new iPhone, such as these two on the right, suggest that it could also have a larger, edge-to-edge display, but we'll have to wait and see if that actually plays out.
If you've been counting, these rumors only account for three phones: The iPhone 7 and two versions of the iPhone 7 Plus. Apple is also reportedly working on a smaller 4-inch iPhone SE — basically a "special edition" of the iPhone 5s that shares its screen size and looks, but features upgraded innards that are more on par with the iPhone 6s, including an A9 processor.
While the brand-new iPhone 7 models won't launch until the fall (when Apple usually debuts new iPhones), we may get to see the smaller iPhone SE later this month at an Apple event on March 21.
This article was originally published on March 2, 2016.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
