With many candidates already criss-crossing the country and new ones coming into the race, the 2020 presidential election is well underway — and the Democratic field of candidates is getting crowded.
There are more women in the race than ever before, which is both exciting to watch and inevitably means there will be sexist coverage of the presidential hopefuls.
All eager to beat a historically unpopular president — who has already raised over $100 million for his reelection campaign — ahead are the current Democratic contenders.
We will update this story as more information becomes available.
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand
New York Sen. Gillibrand officially announced her candidacy on March 17. While she used to be a centrist politician, in recent years she has been a strong proponent of Medicare for All and universal paid family leave. In the Senate, she has made fighting sexual harassment a priority, and together with Sen. Harris, she introduced a bill attempting to combat the U.S.' shockingly high maternal mortality rate.
Photo: Zach Gibson/Bloomberg/Getty Images.
Sen. Cory Booker
The Senator from New Jersey is the least surprising of all the candidates. He rolled out his campaign on February 1 with a message of unity. He's struck a conciliatory, "love-heavy " tone on the campaign trail.
Photo: Earl Gibson III/Getty Images.
Pete Buttigieg
The mayor of South Bend, IN, Buttigieg is a military veteran and would become the first openly gay president in American history.
Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images.
Julián Castro
The former San Antonio mayor and Housing and Urban Development secretary is the grandson of immigrants and has made strong statements against Trump's border wall.
Photo: Scott Eisen/Bloomberg/Getty Images.
John Delaney
Delaney is a former U.S. Representative from Maryland and finance exec who has already been unofficially "running " for years. However, only 1% of Iowa Democrats consider him their first choice.
Photo: Daniel Acker/Bloomberg/Getty Images.
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard
Hawaii Rep. Gabbard is a Bernie backer who has received scrutiny for being friendly with Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad and anti-LGBTQ+ comments (which she has since walked back). She has made foreign policy a big part of her campaign, standing up against "regime-change wars."
Photo: Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call.
Gov. John Hickenlooper
The Colorado governor announced his run on March 4. The former mayor of Denver, he considers Colorado's near universal health insurance coverage one of his major accomplishments.
Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images.
Sen. Kamala Harris
The former California attorney general has been criticized for her record as a prosecutor, but has embraced progressive programs such as Medicare for All and evolved her views on legalizing marijuana. She's a great example of the unprecedented diversity on the Democratic roster, with more women and people of color running than ever before.
Photo: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg/Getty Images.
Gov. Jay Inslee
The Washington governor announced his presidential bid on March 1. He plans to make the fight against climate change a central part of his campaign platform.
Photo: Mat Hayward/Getty Images.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar
Often called the Senate's pragmatist, the moderate Minnesota senator is known for her record number of bipartisan bills. Responding to recent reports that she's mistreated her staff, she said, "I can be tough."
Photo: Stephen Maturen/Getty Images.
Beto O'Rourke
O'Rourke, a three-term U.S. Representative from Texas, rose to stardom when he came closer than anyone expected to defeating Sen. Ted Cruz in the 2018 midterm election. He has promised to challenge President Trump on immigration and border security.
One of the most recognized faces in the field, the Massachusetts senator is looking to challenge Trump on trade and has proposed an "ultra-millionaire tax." She has made universal child care one of her campaign's priorities.
Yang is an entrepreneur and former Obama administration official whose platform includes a guaranteed "universal basic income" of $1,000 a month for all Americans over the age of 18.
Photo: Daniel Acker/Bloomberg/Getty Images.
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Every time we question whether a personal-care product is truly safe or not, the "answer" we're given is so ambiguous, we might as well be shaking a Magic-8 Ball: "More research is needed." (So much for living in the information age.) Deodorants and antiperspirants that contain aluminum salts are the perfect example. The ingredient, which is used to plug up sweat glands, is brimming with controversy — and vastly differing opinions.
On one hand, nascent studies have detected high levels of aluminum in breast tissue, and researchers continue to look into how absorption of these compounds may cause estrogenic effects, something that can trigger the growth of breast-cancer cells. On the other, the National Cancer Institute says that there’s no connection between breast cancer and antiperspirants, while the Alzheimer's Association points to 40 years of research that shows aluminum not to be a significant health risk.
Raja Sivamani, M.D., a dermatologist and adjunct associate professor of clinical dermatology at UC Davis, has a more nuanced view. ”The current evidence is not conclusive and does not prove that aluminum-based antiperspirants increase the risk for breast cancer," he says. "This leaves us in an area where a connection between aluminum salts and breast cancer is neither proven or disproven at this point."
So how does Dr. Sivamani advise his patients best stay fresh without the salts? First, he acknowledges that antiperspirants are generally more effective at reducing sweating and body odor than straight-up deodorants. But if you're concerned about potential side effects, there are plenty of aluminum-free options to be had. See some of the newest formulations that help us keep our cool through long work days and even exercise, 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.
Many aluminum-free deodorants do a fine job of neutralizing body odor, but this stick somehow manages the additional trick of making our underarms smell like young coconut milk and gardenia. Bonus: It doesn't contain baking soda, which can irritate more sensitive skin.
Kopari Beauty Coconut Deo, $11.9, available at Kopari
This Canadian deodorant brand, founded by a mother and daughter duo, is quickly garnering fans for its ability to perform as well as conventional formulas, but without phthalates, potential carcinogens, aluminum, and other questionable ingredients. We put its strongest formula to the test — a sandalwood and bergamot blend that smells like an earthy perfume — and were equally impressed.
Nala Care Free-From Deodorant, $26, available at Nala Care
Applying deodorant is one of the most mundane things about our a.m. routine. But make that deodorant a non-staining, crystal-clear stick from Kai — that smells like actual roses, not a sad imitation — and suddenly, swiping the stick under our arms feels like a luxury on par with spritzing fragrance.
Kai kai*rose deodorant, $24, available at Nordstrom
Love the scent of fresh laundry? This new option from Type:A is for you. But it does more than just smell nice: The formula is made to release odor-fighting ingredients when it comes in contact with sweat. Also key is that the cream doesn't dry up over time, thanks to an innovative squeezable tube that dispenses just enough product for every use.
type: A Deodorant in The Dreamer, $10, available at Credo
Dove's first foray into aluminum-free deodorant gets a lot right: The formula applies clear, its collection of four fragrances don't overpower, and the stick's oblong shape ergonomically fits where it needs to go (unlike so many perfectly-cylindrical sticks that puzzlingly dominate the aluminum-free deodorant landscape). The deodorant's drugstore price is also a welcome reprieve in an otherwise costly category, but most importantly, it did a fine job of fighting back body odor as we schlepped through a sweaty afternoon of moving boxes.
Dove Zero Aluminum Cucumber & Green Tea Deodorant, $5.99, available at Target
The clean scent of saltwater faintly sweetened with coconut is what drew us to this new stick from Schmidt's — but it's the formula's performance that made it a keeper. This deodorant didn't leave a rash on our skin like some baking soda-based versions (likely thanks to arrowroot inside) and the stick kept our underarms smelling fresh through a day at the office.
Schmidt's Waves Natural Deodorant, $8.99, available at Schmidt's
There's a reason this deodorant sold out in eight minutes before racking up a 13,000-person wait list last summer. The formula — made without aluminum, alcohol, or baking soda — uses corn starch to soak up sweat and sage, sandalwood, and horsetail to minimize bacteria.
Megababe Beauty Rosy Pits Daily Deodorant, $18, available at Ulta Beauty
Think of this powder deodorant as dry shampoo for your pits. Just like with powder-based dry shampoo, the method of application has proven divisive: Online reviews show people either love or hate the aerosol-free "spray." But we're fans — after pumping puffs of the baking soda, charcoal, and food-grade starch blend onto skin, it not only minimized sweat but stickiness, too.
Boscia Charcoal Deodorant A Natural Talc-Free Powder Spray, $20, available at Sephora
The heavy plastic casing that houses most aluminum-free deodorants may look chic, but they can't be environmentally kind. This version is sturdy enough to survive weeks of being knocked around in a gym bag without spills, but is made to be refilled with one of five scents.
Ivanka Trump went above and beyond a typical congratulatory tweet when sister-in-law Karlie Kloss made her Project Runway hosting debut this week. It’s the latest of Trump’s exultant efforts to bond with Kloss — remember her over-the-moon comment on Kloss’ engagement announcement on Instagram? — who, it should be noted, has never publicly interacted with Trump.
Project Runway is a big professional step for Kloss, though, as she’s stepping into supermodel Heidi Klum’s shoes after the latter’s departure from the show last year. This was clearly not lost on Trump. To commemorate the occasion, she posted a short video clip of herself in front of a TV screening the season opener.
“Karlie, it’s happening!” Trump said, followed by a smattering of generic #GirlPower platitudes: “Am aaaa zing —” *thumbs up* “— Project Runway —” *swings camera from herself to the TV* “— Karlie is host —” *delicate, tinkling laugh* “— epic.”
Kloss tied the knot with Josh Kushner in October — yes, that’s Kushner, also as in Jared, Trump’s husband — which also made her tenuous ties to the Trumps official. But the supermodel has been careful to keep her personal life private. Kloss hasn’t really spoken out about her in-laws, although she has hinted at distancing her own politics from the Trumps, telling Vogue that she and Kushner “share a lot of the same liberal values.”
Still, as perfunctory as it might be, Kloss clearly has some kind of relationship with Trump, who attended her wedding and follows Kloss on Instagram (as of this writing, Kloss has not followed Trump back). But without some context, Trump’s video can come across as tone-deaf, with some absurdist undertones. Cue the internet.
So what you are saying is you are devastated about the mass murders in New Zealand today, and it is a time to reflect on how hatred and intolerance breeds violence? Oh, I'm sorry. For a minute I thought you were a president's daughter and advisor.
— Anonymous White House Official (@dvorakoelling) March 16, 2019
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 kindergarten teacher who makes $65,000 per year and spends some of her money this weekend on strawberry gelato.
Occupation: Kindergarten Teacher Industry: Education Age: 28 Location: New York, NY Salary: $65,000 Paycheck Amount (2x/month ): $1,935
Monthly Expenses Rent: $1,475 for my half (I share a one-bedroom with my boyfriend, and we split household costs evenly.) Student Loans: $168 minimum, though I usually pay closer to $200 Netflix: $10.99 Phone: I pay my mom $79 for the family plan Internet: $45 Electricity: ~$30 HBO: $0 (We use my mom's boyfriend's account.) Spotify: $0.99 thanks to a three-month trial The Be.come Project: $35 Retirement: $110 with 6% employee match Savings: $300-$400 (I put about $200 in a high-yield savings account and $100 into a separate account for travel/big purchases. I also use a credit card for almost everything, which I pay off monthly, and transfer all the cash back into this account.)
Annual Expenses Amazon Prime: $119
Day One
7:30 a.m. — I wake up to my boyfriend, R., up and about before our alarms go off. It's Saturday, but we both have to work this morning. We teach at the same school, which requires teachers to attend a few admissions-related events each year, and today happens to be one of mine. He coaches basketball, and they have a game this morning. I start getting ready and try to pretend it's not the weekend, even though I was up until 2 a.m. I hold cold spoons under my eyes to try and minimize the puffiness caused by one too many glasses of wine at last night's happy hour(s).
9 a.m. — After a shower, some granola, a cup of coffee, and making myself fairly presentable, I take the subway to the school, where a few of my teacher friends are also working the event. I feel energized when I see them, and we spend the next three hours schmoozing and answering parent questions. I feel really aligned with the school's philosophy and enjoy working there, so it isn't too hard for me to sell it, but the constant mingling and smiling is tiring. I didn't think I'd ever work for a private school but I applied here when I first moved to New York and was still in the process of switching over my out-of-state teaching certification, a very slow process because I was struggling to pay for all of the requirements. Fast forward a few years, and I'm still here. It can definitely be tough to navigate the fine line between business and education at a private school, but this works for me for now and, while the bar is high and a lot is expected of us, I'm grateful for being treated relatively well.
12:30 p.m. — Finally done! I call R. to see if he's wrapping up too so we can start our weekend. He meets me at school, and we resist the urge to skip out of the building out of sheer excitement to get a break from it after being there for six days in a row. We take the train home, and I'm back in my pajamas within 30 seconds of walking into our apartment.
3:40 p.m. — We decide to order this week's groceries online. We do this pretty often because there aren't any big grocery stores in our neighborhood. This also allows us to get everything all at once and split it down the middle, without leaving the couch. I place an order of orange juice, chicken sausage, almond milk, cheddar cheese, ice cream, cauliflower crust pizza, clementines, frozen berries, bananas, a rotisserie chicken, gluten-free pasta, tortilla chips, salsa, pesto, chickpeas, coffee, rice cakes, granola, avocados, bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and sweet potatoes, then send R. a Venmo request for half. $84.04
7 p.m. — I spend the afternoon lounging in bed with our cat. Eventually, R. and I order from our favorite taco place. We take turns paying for Seamless orders, and today it's my turn. We order a bunch of tacos, rice, beans, and maduros. This place is a splurge, but it's SO good. $45.73
8:30 p.m. — My mom is coming for a quick visit tomorrow, so R. and I spend some time cleaning the apartment. I go to bed around 10:30 with the intention of reading my book, but pass out before I'm able to open it.
Daily Total: $129.77
Day Two
7:15 a.m. — Why does my body insist on waking up before 8 on weekends? I scroll through my phone for a while before eventually getting up to make coffee and eat a bowl of granola with almond milk.
8:30 a.m. — I realize we didn't do a very good job cleaning yesterday and spend most of the morning sweeping up cat hair, which I find so satisfying.
12 p.m. — I leave to meet my mom at Penn Station. (I'm too nervous to let her take the subway to Brooklyn by herself.) I jump on the train to essentially pick her up and turn back around. She pays close attention, in hopes that she can do it by herself next time. I use my Metrocard for her subway fare and mine. Somehow, we end up making brunch plans with my dad's first wife/the mother of my half-siblings because she's also in the city today. She and my mom have become close friends since my parents' divorce, and this is my first time hanging out with the two of them without my dad. I don't know how to make that sound less weird without going into too much detail, but it feels totally normal and turns out to be a lot of fun. I offer to split the bill, but the moms treat.
3:30 p.m. — Extremely full from the heavy brunch, my mom and I walk back to my place so she can say hi to R. It's supposed to snow later, so she calls an Uber to Penn shortly after. We hug goodbye and hold back tears because we always go a little too long without seeing each other.
6 p.m. — R. and I get simultaneous alerts that tomorrow is a snow day! It feels like a gift after working on a Saturday, and we both do a happy dance around the living room. Nothing like a snow day to make stressed out teachers feel (and act) like kids again!
8 p.m. — I still feel so gross from lunch, so I decide to do a quick Be.come Project workout. I recently became obsessed with Bethany C. Meyers and their app. I love the “body-neutral” approach, and I'm finally enjoying a consistent and convenient workout for the first time in my life. It's also much cheaper than therapy and has a similar effect. Afterwards, I feel so much better, and R. is happy because he's been waiting for me to stop feeling bloated so we can eat dinner together.
9 p.m. — I'm craving something light, so I make us some quinoa with sautéed veggies, salsa, cheddar cheese, and avocado. We spend the next few hours cuddling on the couch, blissful that we don't have to wake up early, though based on my track record lately, I probably will anyway.
Daily Total: $0
Day Three
7 a.m. — Called it! Up early again but I don't care because SNOW DAY! I cuddle with R. and the cat for an hour before getting up to make coffee, cheesy eggs, and gluten-free avocado toast. I generally do most of the cooking between the two of us, and we both prefer it this way even though I'm not very good at it. R. is a messy cook and gets stressed with even the simplest of recipes. I like to be in control of what I'm eating, thanks to some lovely digestive and inflammation issues.
11 a.m. — I look out the window and the roads are completely clear. We definitely could've had school today. Oh well! I give my plants some TLC because they've been struggling in our dry apartment this winter, then relax on the couch and scroll mindlessly through internet articles while R. plays video games. I snack on a clementine and enjoy the quiet with no plans of being productive today.
3 p.m. — I throw in a load of laundry and do this week's Be.come routine, then take a shower and get back to lounging. I snack on some tortilla chips and start the first episode of The Umbrella Academy.
6:20 p.m. — Okay, I initially found this show way too weird, but now I'm into it. I take a break to feed the cat and start cooking dinner, which is the rotisserie chicken from yesterday's grocery order with roasted sweet potatoes, rosemary, and broccoli. I make way too much, but R. plays in sports leagues throughout the week and I know he'll eat it after his games. While everything's in the oven, I sort the recycling and R. takes it out, along with the compost.
8:30 p.m. — We eat — way more than I thought we would — and then watch Last Week Tonight. I program the coffee maker to run as soon as my alarm goes off in the morning and then curl up with Michelle Obama's Becoming for a little bit. R. joins me in bed and we go to sleep around 11.
Daily Total: $0
Day Four
6:30 a.m. — Ugh, I slept horribly. I guess that's what I get for doing absolutely nothing yesterday. I snooze for 20 minutes and then take a quick shower. I throw on a professional-but-can-sit-on-the-floor outfit, apply some light makeup and CBD lotion to a psoriasis patch I'm trying to get rid of (it's working!), then sit for a few minutes with a cup of coffee and granola with almond milk while checking my email. R. leaves while I'm getting ready because he follows a different class schedule and kisses me goodbye. I grab my lunch, a banana, and a clementine.
8 a.m. — I catch the train to school. For some reason, I woke up with John Legend's “Stinky Booty” song in my head — really makes me wonder what I was dreaming about? — so I listen to this week's Discover Weekly playlist on Spotify to try and replace it with something else. When I get to work, I fill my travel mug with the coffee the school provides. I'd rather get more sleep and take my time at home than get to school early to prepare, so I usually walk in about 15 minutes before first period and plan and prep after school. I also try to get quick tasks done as much as possible throughout the day. I have pretty limited prep periods (and don't take breaks) compared to my coworkers in older grades, but the school day is a little shorter for the younger ones so I'm usually okay with it. It's taken a few years, but I can finally say I rarely take work home.
10:30 a.m. — I snack on a banana and quickly respond to a parent email while the students eat their morning snack and talk about sharks. So far, we've had math this morning and started a unit on measurement, which is a fun concept to teach, but the kids are a little all over the place after yesterday's snow day and we have to rush a little to make up for the lost time.
12:20 p.m. — The students eat their lunch in the classroom followed by some quiet time, which means I get to eat my lunch. I have leftover quinoa and veggies at my desk and work on report card comments. Kindergarteners don't like being quiet, and my work computer isn't functioning properly, so I don't get much done.
4 p.m. — I leave a little earlier than usual because I have a doctor's appointment. It's not easily accessible via public transit from my school, and it's cheaper and easier if I go home first. I take the train home while watching the new Game of Thrones trailer, which gives me mixed feelings of excitement and dread because I know this last season is going to be brutal. I drop off my work bag and spread some almond butter on a rice cake for a quick snack. I check all three of my ride-share apps and call an Uber because it's the cheapest ($6.86). When I get to the doctor's office, I pay my specialist copay ($60). $66.86
6:30 p.m. — I decide to walk a few blocks and wait for the bus. It's so cold! Hard to believe it's almost spring. When I get home, I feed the cat and make gluten-free pasta with pesto, chicken sausage, tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. R. will probably be home late, so I set some aside for him and for myself for lunch tomorrow.
8 p.m. — Not satisfied with that pasta, I eat some ice cream and watch the latest episode of Crashing on HBO, then follow it up with High Maintenance. R. comes home and we talk for a few minutes about our days. He's really stressed and burnt out, and I feel a little helpless. We both read in bed until about 10:30.
Daily Total: $66.86
Day Five
6:30 a.m. — My cat jumps up to lay on top of me as soon as my alarm goes off, making it even harder to get up. After about 15 minutes, I'm successful but not happy about it. I go through my usual routine, drink some coffee, and head out to catch the train.
10:30 a.m. — Snack time! We're having a really productive and busy morning. I eat my banana standing up and several students get excited because they have bananas, too.
12:30 p.m. — I eat last night's pasta and work on my weekly parent newsletter. I'm feeling good because one of my struggling students just read her first entire book to me. Her face lit up when she got to the last page and my heart is full.
3:40 p.m. — Wow, this afternoon was draining. The kids are all in their respective after-school activities, so I eat a clementine and prep for next week. I make copies and try to get organized. Organization is my greatest weakness as a teacher.
5 p.m. — I get home and realize we need olive oil, so I head back out to the pricey bodega across the street. I wander around and forget what we have, then end up with way more than olive oil: paper towels, eggs, gelato that looks good, granola, tomatoes, and more chips and salsa for some reason. I don't send a Venmo request to R. because these one-off trips tend to even out, and I take full responsibility for my impulse purchases. I do a Be.come workout when I get home. $47.42
6:30 p.m. — I remember that I have a medical bill for $140 due soon, so I pay it online. My school provides an HRA debit card with $2,000 towards my deductible, and I have plenty left, so I use that and then start making dinner. I'm so tired from the day, so I decide to throw rice, black beans, salsa, green peppers, tomatoes, corn, and some spices into the Instant Pot.
8 p.m. — R. gets home after coaching a basketball game. The Instant Pot beeps, and I shred some cheddar cheese on top of everything. We eat and talk about a party my sister-in-law is throwing for my brother this weekend. We put on Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj and try the gelato I bought today (strawberry Gelato Fiasco), which is delicious. Then we watch clips of the R. Kelly interview with Gayle King until I decide I've had enough for one night. I head to bed around 10 and only read about two pages before passing out.
Daily Total: $47.42
Day Six
6:45 a.m. — I scroll through my phone in bed and realize my eyes are still closed while my thumb is moving. Why is it so easy to wake up when I don't have to, but next to impossible when I do? I force myself up to shower and do my morning routine. R. is going in a little later today and tries to pull me back in bed, but I resist.
12:15 p.m. — I can't even put into words how much I hate indoor recess. Kids need to run and be loud and, if they can't, it messes up the whole day. Their behavior has been awful this week, and it feels like it should be Friday, even though we didn't even have school on Monday. I blame it on the cold weather, but I think the weeks leading up to spring break are always hard. I scarf down last night's leftovers and respond to an email from the dean of students. I need to finish my newsletter and submit it for approval, so I try to get that done, too, so I can focus on grades after school.
4:45 p.m. — I work on report card comments for a while and make a note to update my grades in the online gradebook tomorrow. I'm struggling to focus, so I head home. Waiting for the train, I scroll through Instagram and see a friend has posted a TBT about a well-known celebrity who happens to send their kid to my school. I laugh to myself because I just saw them at drop-off, looking like every other parent in sweatpants, calling after their kid to have a good day and be a good listener.
7 p.m. — I do this week's Be.come routine again, which feels amazing now that I've practiced it a few times. I feel more energized but still don't feel like cooking, so I put two Caulipower pizzas in the oven. I remember it's my brother's birthday and send him a text because I'm afraid I'll say something to ruin this weekend's surprise party if I talk to him in the phone.
Daily Total: $0
Day Seven
6:40 a.m. — I wake up with a headache, but at least it's Friday! I take a shower and put some CBD lotion on my head. It has a really nice soothing sensation, but I know it's not going to be enough so I take Advil, too. I go through my routine and end up taking a Lyft to school with R. He pays. I get a text from my family friend about giving us a ride to the party tomorrow, which will save us from either a long train ride or a super expensive Lyft.
3:30 p.m. — I send the kids off, enter some grades, and get my room ready for Monday. Then I head to a bar nearby with a few coworkers, where we catch up over a couple glasses of wine. $19.20
8 p.m. — R. and his friend end up in the same place. We all hang out for a while and then R. and I decide it's time to get some food. I call a Juno ($11.61) to a restaurant near our apartment, but when we get there we're told there's over an hour wait. It's too cold to wander around between restaurants, so we decide to just walk home and order food. We struggle to settle on something we both want, so we just place a Seamless order of pad thai for him and a Postmates order from a Venezuelan place for me. (I get another rice bowl, this time with delicious Gouda cheese, steak, avocado, pico de gallo, and rice.) We order from our own accounts, so I pay for mine. ($17.94). $29.55
10:30 p.m. — We end up talking about how our relationship has been sort of on the back-burner lately. R. has been really busy, and we both seem to be pouring from empty cups at work, with little left for each other at the end of the day. This is not the first time, and I know it comes with us both being teachers. Most of the time, we appreciate having someone who understands, but it can be hard to lean on each other when we're both exhausted at the same time. I know we'll feel better after the weekend because we always do. He gives me a big hug and goes to bed. I watch The Umbrella Academy until I can't keep my eyes open, then join him.
Daily Total: $48.75
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The cruel cycle of mass shootings is basically routine now, which is truly horrifying: the rage, the helplessness, the thoughts and prayers, the online backlash, the political posturing. The controversy, as if human life and death should ever be a controversial issue. The dull dread of knowing that it is not a matter of if, but when it will happen again.
It happened again. In the wake of this week’s tragic shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, there has been an overwhelming urge to act. Now, some surprising figures have come to the fore to voice mass frustration on the issues at hand.
On Saturday, Kim Kardashian West posted a tweet praising New Zealand’s move to implement strong gun control laws while condemning the United States’ own failure to do so.
“Just 24 hours after the Christchurch shooting New Zealand bans semiautomatic guns!” Kardashian wrote. “America take note! Why can’t our elected officials put public safety over gun manufacturers’ profits?!?!”
Just 24 hours after the Christchurch shooting New Zealand bans semiautomatic guns! 👏🏼 America take note! Why can’t our elected officials put public safety over gun manufacturers’ profits?!?! https://t.co/nsufYNygoO
Kardashian’s reaction hit a nerve: her tweet was trending on social media and picked up by news outlets worldwide. But she wasn’t the only one to garner attention for speaking out on the issue.
On Friday, Australian teen William Connolly — now known as Egg Boy — gained near-immediate internet fame after smashing a raw egg on the head of right-wing Australian Sen. Fraser Anning. Connolly’s action was in retaliation for the senator’s Islamophobic and xenophobic remarks in the wake of the New Zealand mosque shootings, according to The Washington Post. The seven-second clip has already been shared hundreds of thousands of times across different accounts on social media.
to the teenager who just egged the racist aussie senator fraser anning, ur a goddamn hero and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise pic.twitter.com/NXXR7HSPQx
Policymakers remain largely inactive on the matter of gun control and regulation, and Islamophobia continues to spread on and offline, often unchecked. But the people will find a way to make themselves heard, however unorthodox it may seem. Kardashian and Egg Boy have become unlikely proxies for our global anxieties, and are voicing the same simple message we all seem to be saying: we need to take action now.
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The attack was carried out during Jumu’ah, one of the most attended congregational prayers. Four suspects are in custody. Authorities have not released their names; however, they have stated that the alleged shooter has an online history of espousing white nationalist views in addition to writing a 74-page manifesto where he speaks at length about his hatred for Muslims and immigrants. In a statement, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden called the unprecedented violence “one of New Zealand’s darkest days.” Police have been racing to identify all of the victims so that their loved ones can bury them in accordance with Muslim tradition.
Organizations around the world are setting up relief efforts. Some come from group-coordinated crowdfunding, others have been set up by larger programs such as the New Zealand Red Cross. Some are geared toward the immediate needs of the victims and their families, while others are in wider support of Christchurch’s Muslim community. All are coming together to make sure something like this doesn’t happen again.
New Zealand Islamic Information Centre: The information center has set up a crowdfund campaign with LaunchGood. Since it was started, they have already raised more than $1.8 million. According to the campaign, “All proceeds will help with the immediate, short-term needs of the grieving families.”
The New Zealand Council of Victim Support Groups: Already raising over $4.5 million, the support group has partnered with Givealittle to coordinate the campaign. According to the donation page, the funds will go to “provide support and resources for people affected by the Christchurch shootings and their family members.”
The Al Manar Trust: The organization has launched an emergency appeal for the victims of the shooting and to “offer a simple help from the community around New Zealand to support the affected families.” Their campaign is also supported by LaunchGood.
New Zealand Red Cross: The New Zealand Red Cross is accepting donations of money, volunteer hours, and blood for all emergencies across New Zealand, the Christchurch shooting included. If you are in the area, you can volunteer to donate time, and if you’re not in New Zealand, you can opt to donate money.
Penny Appeal: The U.K.-founded, Muslim nonprofit has partnered with its Australian offices to provide community care and to help with “funeral costs and ongoing practical support.” On their campaign page, they write: “Reading the news can make you feel hopeless; but when we stand together in solidarity, we can make a real difference to the victims of these attacks.”
The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh: In October 2018, the Tree of Life Synagogue was targeted by an anti-Ssemitic shooter who killed 18 people. As they are still processing their own tragedy, they have invited donorsations to support the Muslim community of Christchurch.
Charity Navigator: Anyone wishing to donate to an organization, charity, or crowdfund can research them on Charity Navigator, which reviews organizations based on transparency, accountability, and financial health.
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That’s not only an extremely corny platitude — it’s also my extremely corny pun referencing her new tattoo. Grande posted a new photo on Instagram on Sunday showing off some delicate new ink: a branch of leaves splayed across the left side of her ribcage.
Under the photo, Grande wrote, “post run thrus, 3 am with @girlknewyork :) not a cover up just evolvin. also, our show opens tomorrow. i love u and i’m so grateful. see u soon.”
The caption isn’t just a shoutout to her upcoming world tour (which kicks off on Monday). It’s also a breezy acknowledgment of the strategic placement of her tattoo, which covers up some older art she got last summer during her whirlwind romance with Saturday Night Live comedian Pete Davidson.
It was one of many tattoos Grande got during her relationship with Davidson, which ended with a broken engagement in October. It’s also not the first tattoo she has modified or covered up — both Grande and Davidson have taken time post-breakup to change their ink, and Grande most recently had that unfortunate mishap where she inadvertently tattooed “Japanese barbecue grill” on her hand in kanji characters (hey, at least she was a good sport about it).
Grande’s modification to her “Always” tattoo, however, doesn’t seem to be an effort to hide or gloss over the past — rather, she seems to be focused on personal growth, appropriately symbolized by the new flora she has inked on her torso. That’s a message we can all get behind.
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Weekends are built on the fundamentals of snoozing and brunching. These two extra days of sleeping in and afternoon breakfasting serve to adequately prep us for the GOAT leisure-activity: shopping. And lucky for us, deal-heavy home siteWayfair just kicked off its massive three-day March clearance sale that we can put all that shut-eye and fluffy omelette-energy towards.
Starting today and lasting through our impending Monday scaries on March 19, the site is offering up to 70% off an enticing selection of big home buys. From top-rated beds and headboards to living room furniture, area rugs, lighting, kitchen essentials, and more, now's the time to get your space in fresh shape for spring. Scroll on to shop our top picks from the super-sale lineup, all boasting rave customer reviews — and then go grab another mimosa to celebrate your steals.
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.
Good: Top-Rated Area Rug Deal: 59% Off This vibrant and vintage-feeling area rug boasts 4.9 out of 5 stars on Wayfair with glowing reviews ranging from, "One of the best purchases I’ve ever made from here! Good quality and amazing price," to, "We could NOT be happier with this purchase. It looks beautiful in our living room."
Bungalow Rose Arteaga Navy/Blue/Orange/Pink/Gray Area Rug, $98.37, available at Wayfair
Good: Covert Litter Box Deal: 36% Off This covert enclosure not only tucks feline friends' litter boxes out of sight, but it also serves double-duty as a stylish bathroom storage system.
Archie & Oscar Alfie Litter Box Enclosure, $93.24, available at Wayfair
Good: Platform Bed Frame Deal: 45% Off This steel, scrolling-designed frame looks like a chic vintage treasure...for a fraction of the price.
Fleur De Lis Living Pattonsburg Platform Bed (Queen), $151.99, available at Wayfair
Good: Storage Bench Deal: 53% Off The small-space trifecta: seating, storage, and a decor statement.
Charlton Home Annsville Wood Storage Bench, $93.96, available at Wayfair
Good: Glazed Earthen Dinnerware Deal: 73% Off This pink-glazed set of earthen dinnerware is ready to serve up a plethora of sweet spring fare.
Mint Pantry Valia 16 Piece Full Set, Service for 4, $32.58, available at Wayfair
Good: Bohemian Reversible Quilt Set Deal: 63% Off Make an effortless bohemian sleep situation with a three-piece quilt set that's reversible and machine washable.
Bungalow Rose Tamela Stripe 3 Piece Reversible Quilt Set, $73.73, available at Wayfair
Good: Modern Entertainment Stand Deal: 49% Off Invest in a modern entertainment stand that can double as stylish, open-air storage for decor and other living essentials.
Wrought Studio Choy TV Stand, $127.09, available at Wayfair
Good: Premium Knife Set Deal: 75% Off This premium 15-piece set includes a pairing, serrated utility, santoku hollow edge, chef's, bread, and steak knife, along with a sharpening steel, pair of kitchen shears, and a hardwood block.
J.A. Henckels International Statement 15 Piece Block Set, $86.96, available at Wayfair
Good: Full-Length Mirror Deal: 72% Off Open up any small dark room with this gleaming, full-length leaning mirror.
Wade Logan Full Length Mirror, $178.99, available at Wayfair
Good: Best-Selling Loveseat Deal: 78% Off Invest in a bright blue settee with a 4.5 out of 5-star rating and customers' rave reviews that state it all: "I'm so in love with my beautiful new settee! I've received so many compliments! It's the perfect addition to my room remodel. Very easy to assemble (I did it by myself in less than 20 minutes with only the instructions and tools provided)...A very high end chair for a fraction of the cost."
Andover Mills Bjorn Chesterfield Settee, $289.99, available at Wayfair
Good: Storage Headboard Deal: 40% Off Step up your space-saving tactics with a headboard that pulls double duty as a bookshelf-dresser.
Zipcode Design Grantville Bookcase Headboard, $124.99, available at Wayfair
Good: Sleek Storage Lamp Deal: 39% Off Maximize your minimal apartment size with a sleek lamp that wields multi-storage power.
Latitude Run Ariana 63.3" Column Floor Lamp, $42.99, available at Wayfair
Good: Gilded Shelf Duo Deal: 22% Off Brighten up your bare walls with a pair of floating golden shelves.
Turn On The Brights Forsyth Wood Floating Wall Shelf (Set of 2), $46.99, available at Wayfair
Good: Persian-Style Area Rug Deal: 81% Off No one will guess that you snagged this Persian-style, vibrant-blue, and hand-woven area rug for over 80% off.
Lark Manor Amhurst Dark Blue Area Rug, $81.41, available at Wayfair
Good: Storage Coffee Table Deal: 68% Off This rustic-chic pine wood coffee table packs a dual-storage punch.
Trent Austin Design Kinsella Coffee Table, $139.99, available at Wayfair
Good: 6-Piece Sheet Set Deal: 48% Off Spring clean your bed with a brand new set of top-rated, crisp white sheets from Wayfair's exclusive brand.
Wayfair 1800 Series 6 Piece Sheet Set, $25.99, available at Wayfair
Good: Accent Chair Deal: 55% Off Let this under $100 accent chair warm up your space with a splash of sunshine yellow.
Novogratz Collection Campbell Side Chair, $62.2, available at Wayfair
Good: Stylish Sleeper Sofa Deal: 54% Off This sleek MCM sofa secretly doubles as a pull-out guest room in a pinch.
Langley Street Tulsa Convertible Sleeper Sofa, $285.99, available at Wayfair
Good: Memory Foam Mattress Deal: 59% Off Improve your sleep-hygiene with a multi-layer premium foam mattress that's developed to promote circulation and reduce pressure for more peaceful snoozing.
Alwyn Home 8" Medium Firm Memory Foam Mattress, $110, available at Wayfair
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Women might be starting business in record numbers, but they are still struggling to raise money at the same rate as men. According to a 2018 study from PitchBook, companies with female founders only received 2.3 percent of venture capital last year. There's a lot of work to be done to even the playing field for women entrepreneurs, but there are a growing number of organizations trying to fix this problem. Rebecca Minkoff, co-founder and creative director of her eponymous clothing line, started the Female Founders Collective last fall. The organization is made up of 3,000-women-led businesses, and the goal is to both help consumers find and frequent these businesses while also providing female founders a supportive community.
With that mission in mind, Minkoff teamed up with Jennifer Bett Communications founder Jennifer Bett Meyer and her business partner, Melissa Duren Conner, publicists who primarily work with women-led brands, to launch a conference, Wide Awake: A Day For Female Founders, a free day-long event that aimed to provide thoughtful advice, valuable networking, and professional development for young female entrepreneurs.
The conference was held at the recently opened Luminary space in NoMad. It’s a bright and airy (albeit a little chilly) space decorated with pink couches and sea-foam green banquettes. On a bitterly cold Wednesday morning in early March, it was packed with smartly dressed women, mostly wearing the female entrepreneur uniform of leather jackets, dark jeans, heeled booties, and the requisite soft waves. It was a good looking crowd, many of whom owned businesses in the fashion, wellness, and beauty space, but these women are no lightweights. They took a day out of their busy schedules to talk business, strategize about everything from growing brand recognition to raising funds, and network with like-minded founders.
The packed agenda featured a mix of inspiration, aspiration, and practical advice. Sometimes, things were a little silly — when Arielle Charnas of Something Navy joked about hiring employees based on their astrological signs. But go beyond that off-hand remark, and it’s clear that she made smart business decision bringing on Tara Foley to help her handle day-to-day operations. While Arielle talked about how all her design decisions are based on her instincts, Tara quickly followed up by saying there was a lot of behind-the-scenes analytics backing up those decisions. The two also talked a lot about community, which was a theme that ran throughout the day.
Photo: Courtesy of Belathee.
The second panel featured a powerhouse lineup of women who are radically disrupting traditional industries. Michelle Cordeiro Grant left Victoria Secret to start the lingerie brand Lively. Mariah Chase is using her years of experience in fashion to run Elloquii, a fashion-forward clothing line for women who wear sizes 14+. And Nicole Gibbons is turning the paint industry on its head with her brand, Clare. Ann Shoket, author of The Big Life, moderated the panel and encouraged the women to offer actionable advice to the audience. Sure, there were some platitudes (“Perfection is the death of creation.”), but all three women were refreshingly candid when talking about the highs and lows of starting your own business. “If you can’t bet on yourself, who can you bet on?” Chase asked the audience. And in a world where women still face gender discrimination and pay inequity in the traditioanl workplace, that's a good question to ask yourself if you’re afraid to take the plunge.
After two hours of panels, the crowd split into smaller sessions where the real work was meant to happen. There were nine sessions to choose from on a range of topics: You could discuss benefits and HR questions with the Financial Gym founder Shannon McLay or learn about social media from Unbound co-founder Polly Rodriguez. I joined the session about growing your business with the help of lending and banking. We live in a time where there are two narratives that dominate the start-up story: either you bootstrap or you raise venture capital. A third option is to get a small business loan. The panel’s host, Mary Ann Reilly, the SVP of North America Marketing at Visa (the conference's sponsor) mentioned the stat that 61% of female entrepreneurs self-fund their business. Yet, there are a lot of good reasons why you might want to go the so-called “debt” route — you have more control over your growth strategy and aren’t beholden to investors. Of course, understanding loans can be complicated and finding lenders who look like you and believe in your business can also be tough (which might explain why only 1 and 4 female entrepreneurs take out a small business loan). But is it any harder than facing room after room of uninterested white men who are often the decision-makers of venture capital firms?
Photo: Courtesy of Belathee.
After a break for lunch and networking, the afternoon session kicked off with a panel featuring the Katia Beauchamp of Birchbox and Jennifer Fleiss, a co-founder of Rent The Runway, along with Sutian Dong of the Female Founders Fund, an early stage venture capital fund that invests primarily in women-founded businesses (including Shine and WayUp). Beauchamp and Fleiss are both graduates of Harvard Business School and helped launch two of the biggest fashion and beauty brands around. Still, they struggled in their early days, and both had some fairly harrowing fundraising stories to share. They also noted how much the female founders' space has changed — for the better — since they launched in the early-2000s.
The main space was only half full when Luminary founder Cate Luzio took the stage with Ellevest founder Sallie Krawcheck for the second-to-last panel of the day. Perhaps, it was too much to expect female founders could spend a full day at a conference while also balancing the demands of starting a business. But Krawcheck brought her typical humor and candidness to her conversation with Luzio making it one of the day’s highlights. She talked about getting fired, the struggle of not having an advocate in the room, and the problem of women not helping women. Sallie asked to go off-the-record when getting very open about some of the fundraising challenges she’s faced. It’s this kind of honest conversation that’s crucial for women to be having. While Krawcheck is always willing to dispel the myth that success is easy or something that happens overnight, she’s not sharing her negative experience to discourage others but encourage them to also be open, helpful, and supportive. Glossy inspirational quotes only set us up for disappointment.
The day ended with a cocktail hour, and after nearly eight hours of panels and breakout sessions, everyone was about ready for a drink and a little bit more networking. If there was one consistent thread through the day, it was the emphasis on building community. Meyer, Minkoff, and their teams set up a conference that attempted to cover a lot of ground in a single day — a huge value that was free for female founders. It was an impressive feat for first-time conference planners, and it will be exciting to see what they roll out in the future.
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Update:Kim Kardashian West has proven time and time again that she isn't afraid to show the world what struggling with psoriasisreally looks like. On March 12, the star posted another video of her most recent flare-up, which showed rashes on her cheeks and under her eyes. "Psoriasis face," she wrote on her Instagram Story. She followed up with a selfie on March 17 with the caption "Morning psoriasis."
Even with state-of-the-art treatments at her disposal, Kardashian West continues to battle the incurable condition, which an estimated 7.5 million Americans can definitely relate to. Read more about the treatments she's tried, ahead.
This post was originally published on February 12, 2019.
Psoriasis is technically incurable, so treating its symptoms is a constant battle — even for Kardashian West, who has continued to offer an unfiltered view of what dealing with psoriasis can look like. Most recently, she's used her Instagram Stories to show a few of her favorite at-home treatments, including a selfie on Monday that featured her face covered with a strange brown ointment.
Instagram
"Psoriasis is the shits," she wrote, adding, "It's just an herbal treatment." Though she doesn't clarify which herbs went into the making of it, the National Psoriasis Foundation says that herbal treatments and ointments with ingredients like aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, capsaicin (which is the ingredient in chili peppers that makes them hot), tea-tree oil, and turmeric have been used to sooth and heal the skin following a psoriasis flare-up.
Next up, Kardashian West posted a picture of the Blueberry Detox Smoothie from Medical Medium, a company that encourages juice-drinking to cure certain illnesses (as you can probably guess, Gwyneth Paltrowloves it). "I'm really trying it all!!!" she wrote. The NPF states that dietary changes haven't proven to be especially effective against easing symptoms — but hey, a smoothie can't hurt, right?
InstagramInstagram
That said, not everything Kardashian West shared on her Instagram Story was entirely natural: She also posted a photo of what looks like a tiny room walled in by long fluorescent bulbs, which is likely related to at-home UV-light therapy, a treatment she called "life-changing" in a blog post in 2017. Unlike changes to diet, phototherapy is backed by the National Psoriasis Foundation when administered under medical supervision.
Kardashian West clearly shouldn't be considered a professional when it comes to treating psoriasis; she is, after all, a celebrity and not a doctor. But the important thing the star is doing here is helping remove the stigma that still surrounds the common condition, which affects 7.5 million people in America alone. Given that she has more than 127 million followers on Instagram, Kardashian West really may be helping millions with the tap of a finger.
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Despite our love for fuzzy socks, rib-knit turtlenecks, and teddy-bear coats, we'll be the first to admit that we're pretty over playing the layer game (as in, piling on as many clothes as possible to brave biting-cold temps) and wearing the same tired combo day after day. Nothing against winter, but now that the seasons are gearing up to shift, it feels like an opportune time to do a little switcheroo and swap out our recent mainstays for some fresher pieces that are lighter, brighter, and break a little more sartorial ground.
So where to start? Together with Macy's — whose recent edition of The Edit features the latest and greatest fashion-forward pieces of the season — we tapped a group of R29 staffers with serious style smarts to help us assess which spring trends are actually worth buying into. From a powdery-blue pastel suit that walks the line between casual and cool to a pair of colorblocked kicks that'll make every outfit you put together a little more interesting, click through to see exactly what you need in your closet when puffer weather finally decides to call it quits.
The Pastel-Colored Suit
"Spring is one of my favorite times of the year: The weather is warm, the days are longer, and I can wear my favorite outfits without fear of freezing or burning up. Spring also means pastels and bright colors are back in full force, which excites me as a color lover and wearer. Pastel suits are the perfect way to mix the sharp tailoring of a traditionally masculine cut with the pop of fun color I look for in every outfit. I'm excited to pair suits with low-key pieces like T-shirts and sneakers to achieve a look that straddles the line between casual and formal. Having a matching set is the perfect way to feel instantly put together while keeping things playful and comfortable." —Lauren Thompson, senior editor, Snapchat
Kasper Toggle-Closure Stand-Collar Blazer, $99, available at Macy's
Kasper Crepe Slim Straight-Leg Pants, $79, available at Macy's
The Wear-Anywhere Woven Bag
"There are few things I love more than a handbag that can totally transform an entire outfit. I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect woven bucket bag for so long, and this one — which is polished, playful, and practical — is exactly what I've been looking for. I'll be carrying it everywhere this season: to dinners in the city, throughout my weeklong beach vacay, you name it." —Nicole Contursi, associate director, client services
INC International Concepts I.N.C. Ajae Bucket Crossbody, $79.5, available at Macy's
The Elevated Denim Trench
"This spring, I am moving away from my tried-and-true denim silhouettes (namely just throwing on a pair of my favorite jeans) and leaning toward more elevated pieces like this trench coat. I'm all about experimenting with layers and adding in the texture I love by mixing denim with interesting fabrics." —Channing Hargrove, fashion writer
BCBG MAXAZRIA Denim Trench Coat, $298, available at Macy's
The Airy Wide-Leg Trouser
"Give me a pair of high-waisted pants in any fabric or color with a great leg shape, and I’ll wear them to the office every day — or to post-work cocktails in Brooklyn. Classic and comfortable wide-leg pants are a continuation of my personal style; a perfect foundation to mix and match with any of my floral blouses, knit cardigans, and oversized button-downs. Throw on a leather belt and white sneakers, and I’m ready to go!" —Eva Lee, content operations manager
Lauren Ralph Lauren Wide-Leg Twill Pants, $115, available at Macy's
The Just-Below-The-Knee Skirt
"It might make me a bad acolyte of the Church of Miniskirts, but this spring, I’m ready for a hemline longer than fingertip-length. For one, it’s kind of counterintuitive to be wearing more clothes when it’s warmer out, and I like that contradiction; for another, a longer skirt aligns with the more modest, prairie-influenced turn fashion has taken. So when it’s still cold and damp, I’ll pair this skirt with a big sweater and hiking boots. And later, it’ll print-mix well with a tie-dye tee or a striped dress that’s been unbuttoned past the waist to make a long shirt." —Chelsea Peng, fashion editor, branded content
INC International Concepts I.N.C. Striped Ruffled Midi Skirt, $79.5, available at Macy's
The Chunky Statement Sneaker
"Let me let you in on a little secret. When it comes to (my) personal style, comfort is always key. After years as a heel-obsessed fashion editor, it's taken me a while to accept that no matter how much better I think I look in a block bootie or stiletto, they just can't compete with the ease and coolness of a practical shoe. Enter: statement sneakers. A no-fuss, attitude-heavy way to infuse style with comfort. I pair mine with both athletic attire and business boss looks that balance out the chunky kicks. Consider it a sartorial loophole for all." —Annie Georgia Greenberg, video editor, producer, and fashion editor at large
KORS Michael Kors Georgie Trainer Sneakers, $145, available at Macy's
The Ditsy Floral Blouse
"I'm all about balance when it comes to style. A light floral blouse with longer sleeves pairs perfectly with white denim shorts for a weekend picnic, or swap the shorts for a cigarette pant and it's the perfect work outfit that will take me day to night. Either way, I'd pair this look with my favorite espadrilles and run out the door ready for whatever spring has in store for me!" —Ellyn Puleio, senior manager, sales operations
Vince Camuto Printed Pintucked Top, $89, available at Macy's
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When you commit to short hair, you commit to a look. If you have hair that falls above the ears, you have fewer styling options than someone with waves cascading down their back. That's just a fact. But just because your strands are short doesn't mean your hair routine has to be one note. You can get in on cool styles — like braids — even when it's tough to put your hair into a ponytail.
Of course, some of the most viral braided looks we double tap on Instagram are done with long hair. But for those whose strands sit shoulder-length and above, there are still cute options. Ahead, we rounded up some plaited looks that are easy to master on short hair, but be forewarned, these looks — and the fact that you won't have to spend an hour blowdrying and styling every morning — might make you reconsider growing out your bob.
A blunt bob is good on its own, but there's something about this chunky French braid along the hairline that makes it so much better.
You may be thinking — how the hell can I braid my hair if it's that short? Well, you can phone a friend, meaning grab some extra braiding hair. You can feed extensions into your natural hair to create a chunky accent braid that blends with your short haircut. And if the front part of your pixie is longer, you might be able to pull off a similar look without the extra hair.
If your braids aren't long enough to dangle down your back, tie the ends of them into baby buns.
Box braids that cascade down your back are fun, but they're equally cool when they fall right above the shoulders. If your hair is already shoulder length, you can DIY the look with your natural strands. For a thicker braid, add a few packs of braiding hair into the mix.
Chad Wood braided Ana Mulvoy Ten's bob into messy, straight-back plaits and pinned them down at the nape of her neck. The best part? You can copy this look whether your hair is short or long.
People with tapered cuts can get really creative by utilizing the longer pieces of hair around the crown and hairline, like Felicia Leatherwood did for Sonequa Martin-Green. Leatherwood braided the actress' curls into angular cornrows, which added some edge to her super-cool cut.
So what if your hair can't be pulled into a ponytail? Play around with accessories, like this velvet ribbon Lacy Redway used on Lucy Hale, to add texture and excitement to your braids.
Incorporating a chunky braid into your half-up hairstyle will instantly make your cropped cut look Pinterest worthy. This style by Riawna Capri could easily take you to a music festival or a wedding.
A prom (or special occasion) updo doesn't have to be structured. You can style your lob into a loose braid with colorful florals placed throughout to make it more romantic.
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It’s been more than 10 years since 3-year-old Madeleine McCann went missing from her family’s villa in the holiday resort of Praia da Luz, Portugal. Though the ongoing case has been the subject of intense media scrutiny for a long period of time now, the arrival of new Netflix documentary The Disappearance of Madeleine McCann has revived public curiosity around what happened to Kate and Gerry McCann’s daughter all those years ago.
The eight-part series takes us on a lengthy journey, rehashing facts and theories that are likely very familiar to many of us by now. But one line of thought with which you might be a little less familiar is the 'Pact Of Silence'.
As intriguing and plot-twisty as it sounds, 'Pact of Silence' (which is also the name given to the third episode of the documentary) was originally the headline of a controversial article co-written by Portuguese journalists Margarida Davim and Felícia Cabrita. In it, they suggested that there was an agreement among the McCanns and their friends to not talk about what really happened on the night of May 3 evening of 2007. In short, they implied that the group was hiding something crucial to understanding the truth behind Madeleine’s disappearance.
So what do we know actually happened? Kate and Gerry had taken Madeleine and their twin babies on holiday to the Ocean Club resort with a group of friends: David and Fiona Payne, Fiona’s mum Dianne, Matthew and Rachael Oldfield, Russell O’Brien and partner Jane Tanner. They had eight young children between them who, on the night Madeleine went missing, had all been put to bed before the adults went out for dinner at the resort's tapas restaurant. All of the children were left unattended but the group say that one member of the party would leave the table every 30 minutes or so to check on their respective children. When it was Kate's turn to check on hers, she discovered that Madeleine was gone.
Journalist Felícia found it odd that in the weeks after Madeleine vanished, the investigating police seemed to be focusing only on the suspected kidnapping and not the family involved. "We know that in most cases, the culprit is someone who is close to the child," Felícia explains in the documentary. She goes on to tell the story of a visit she made to the restaurant where the McCann group ate on the night of the incident. She sat at the same table as them and found that despite Gerry McCann's claim that the table had a "line of sight to the apartment" – which they say was a factor in deciding where to eat that evening – there was limited visibility. This was the first contradiction she found in the parents' statement to police.
"From the position I was in, it was completely impossible to see the apartment or the room where they had left the children to sleep," Felícia adds. "As an investigative journalist, I have to ask, why? Why would you lie about such a simple thing?"
Her colleague Margarida says that they had a feeling something was off with the timeline and that the McCanns' version of events doesn’t match that of the employees who served them in the hotel. Further doubt was driven by inconsistencies in Gerry's statements about which door he entered the apartment through and whether or not it was locked. There's also her understanding that the McCann group gathered to work out their timeline and then revise it 24 hours later. Gonçalo Amaral, former Chief Investigating Coordinator with the Portuguese police, says that statements by Jane Tanner, who claimed to have seen a man carrying a child in pajamas away from the resort, seemed to evolve as time went on.
And then there are all the questions that remained unanswered. Why leave the kids alone? Why not use the babysitting service that was available at the hotel? And why weren't the friends of the McCanns who had dinner with them on the night willing to say more? The journalists felt that things didn't add up.
"The word that we ended up using in the title – pact – came from David Payne when he said that they had agreed with Gerry not to talk about what happened," Margarida explains. Gonçalo also notes in the documentary that it wasn't just Kate and Gerry; the entire party had left their children alone that night and so "there seems to be an alliance between everyone to protect someone." After a few months with little progress in the investigation and no success finding Madeleine, it's unsurprising that the McCanns and their friends eventually came under scrutiny. However, as we know, the suspicion around them has not materialized into any significant evidence.
The Disappearance of Madeleine McCann is available on Netflix now.
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Sundays have taken on an entirely new meaning at the Kardashian-West household. The family has been hosting "Sunday Services" that serve as a weekly worship session and feature celebrity attendees, new Kanye music, and daughter North West jamming away as seen in clips posted by mom Kim Kardashian West.
Each week, the internet has been obsessing over North grabbing the microphone or showing off her best dance moves — but this Sunday's session stirred up different reactions after people spotted the five year old swaying to the music wearing a black dress, a big smile, and black lipstick.
While many people found North West's coordinating look (plus, her epic moves) to be a whole mood, others criticized Kardashian West for letting her daughter wear makeup to a Sunday service. "She's adorable but why is she wearing lipstick to church? She's too young for makeup in public," wrote one Twitter user. Another said, "Um, isn't she a little YOUNG to have dark lipstick on? and tons of it?? gimme a break already."
But many more fans came to the defense of Kardashian West, pointing out that how she chooses to parent North West is her business. "North West wearing lipstick does not effect your life so like relax, it ain’t that serious I promise," wrote one Twitter user. "I really do not understand why people keep getting so pressed by North West wearing lipstick," wrote another. "When you had your dance recitals at 3, your momma put lipstick on you because it was a little special event, which it looks like they were at. It’s not an everyday thing people. Chill."
North wearing black lipstick to church is literally a whole mood for me. https://t.co/c0xRluMfXo
This isn't the first time that the reality star and makeup mogul has faced backlash for her daughter wearing cosmetics. Back in December, Kardashian West received criticism when North rocked red lipstick at their family's Christmas party. She responded to the controversy by tweeting, "She picked it though! It’s a special occasion," and took the opportunity to tease the fact that the shade was from an upcoming release. The young star also graced the cover of WWD last month wearing pink eyeliner, which came with a heavy side of mommy shaming as well.
While it's not surprising to see the young beauty influencer — who is known play in her mom's makeup stash — try a new look, it actually is new territory for Kardashian West. The mom once told us that black lipstick fell outside of her established beauty rules for the five year old. "I don't think she should wear lashes or too dark of a lipstick," Kardashian West told Refinery29 back in December. "I want her to express herself, but I want her to be appropriate, too." But hey, a lot can change over a few months, especially when you're trendsetting before you even learn to drive.
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In the immediate aftermath of the shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand that left 50 dead and 40 injured, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern swiftly deemed the attack as a act of terrorism and rejected the notion that the victims, many of them migrants, were not part of the country. "They have chosen to make New Zealand their home, and it is their home," she said in a press conference following the attack. She then emphasized: "They are us."
The address would set the tone for Ardern's extraordinary display of leadership as New Zealand grapples with one of the darkest chapters of its modern history.
On Saturday, the prime minister traveled to Christchurch to meet with members of the community who are Muslim and refugees. Ardern was clad in black and wearing a hijab, which was interpreted by many as a symbol of respect towards those affected by the attack. As she hugged some of the grieving families, she told them New Zealanders were "united in grief." The gesture was not empty, either. Ardern pledged to cover the funeral costs for every victim and offered additional financial assistance to the families who might need it. She also promised that her cabinet will pursue gun control measures to improve the nation's current laws and announced Monday the reforms would be unveiled "within 10 days of this horrific act of terrorism."
In videos from her visit to Christchurch, Ardern is shown visiting a makeshift memorial outside of the Wellington Islamic Center. She also met with community members, where she spoke clearly about her grief and addressed several logistical issues, such as retrieving the bodies of the victims so their families can begin the burying rituals, with compassion.
Ardern, who at 38 is one of the youngest leaders in the world, is by no means a perfect lawmaker. Domestically, she's been criticized over her handling of New Zealand's economy and other issues, such as her bureaucratic blunders as she tries to create more affordable housing in the nation. But her strong leadership after the shootings in Christchurch, the first attack of its kind in New Zealand's modern history, could teach a thing or two to other world leaders who at times have come short when tragedy strikes.
In the hours after the attack Friday, Ardern gave New Zealanders, as much information as she could at the moment. This decision helped the country at a time where fear and uncertainty reigned. Aldern also spoke clearly against assertions that the attack was not part of a bigger trend in the rise of white nationalism globally. At a press conference, she was asked whether she agreed with President Donald Trump's assertion that there has not been an increase in right-wing terrorism. Ardern answered with a simple, "No." When asked how could the U.S. help fight this trend, she said: "Sympathy and love for all Muslim communities."
Throughout her first 18 months in office, Ardern has been criticized as a weak leader for her openness, but she has not shied away from a style of leadership that relies on hope. "It takes courage and strength to be empathetic," she said last fall. In her country's most horrifying days, that strength has shined through.
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The third week of March is when most of us start itching for a pedicure. Whether you're going on vacation somewhere tropical, or just feeling understandably antsy about the warmer weather on the horizon, a fresh coat of polish on your toenails will get you excited to slip your feet into sandals.
Even if a salon appointment isn't in the cards for you this week (or next), you can still give your toes some TLC with an at-home pedicure — all you need is a little foot scrub and the perfect shade of polish, which is why we've compiled a comprehensive pro's guide to a flattering and on-trend spring pedicure. From classic poppy red to pastel blue, you'll find the exact polish shade you need to ready yourself for the impending open-toe shoe season, ahead. Think of it as a seasonal pick-me-up and a good omen.
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If you're looking for red, nail pro Nadine Abramcyk recommends picking a shade with a slight tinge of orange. "This is hands down my favorite pedicure color before spring hits in full force," she tells us.
Transitioning into a spring and summer wardrobe calls for something bright, pink, and, as Abramcyk recommends, designer. "Chanel's Camelia is a bright pop of pink that's almost an accessory in and of itself," she says.
Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color in Camelia, $28, available at Barneys New York
Think you can't pull off bright yellow nail polish? Nail pro Jin Soon Choi say a springtime pedicure using Dior's Tutti Frutti nail polish will change your tune. "This polish shade is actually the perfect yellow against all skin tones," she tells us.
Dior Vernis Pop'N'Glow in Tutti Frutti, $28, available at Dior
This shimmery chestnut brown isn't your typical spring shade — but that's what we love most about it. As manicurist Michelle Saunders tells us, it makes the perfect slightly shimmery yet neutral complement to a colorful spring wardrobe.
Essie Spring 2019 Nail Polish Collection in Teacup Half Full, $9, available at Ulta Beauty
Can you think of a better name for a spring and summer pedicure polish than Out of Office? Saunders recommends this shade because of its clever name and full-coverage finish. "This opaque pink brings a freshness to a mani-pedi that we’ve been longing for all winter," she says.
LondonTown Londontown Nail Polish in Out of Office, $16, available at Walmart
If you're thinking neutral, you can't go wrong with a polish from Essie's Sheer Silhouette collection. "These gel polishes last forever," says Saunders. "This is a foolproof nude to get you through the entire season with minimal toe touchups."
Essie essie Gel Couture Sheer Silhouettes Nail Polish, $11.49, available at Target
In general, green polish is pretty on trend for spring. Nail pro Skyy Hadley tells us that she's been loving this festive emerald Zoya polish. "This is a gorgeous sparkly mermaid kind of green," she says. "It combines two huge nail trends for spring: green and glitter."
Zoya ZOYA Nail Polish in Ivanka , $10, available at Amazon
For your first foray into sandals, a pastel blue feels fitting. "Essie's Bikini So Tiny polish is a cross between periwinkle and baby blue," says Saunders. "It’s been a favorite pedicure polish for spring brides who want a fun way to wear 'something blue.'"
Essie Nail Polish in Bikini So Teeny, $7.79, available at Target
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New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday that she plans to announce stricter gun laws within the next few days, just days after a white nationalist gunman opened fire at two mosques in Christchurch during Friday prayers, killing 50 people and injuring dozens of others.
"Within 10 days of this horrific act of terrorism we will have announced reforms which will, I believe, make our community safer," Ardern said in a news conference.
She did not give specifics, but said she supports a ban on semiautomatic, military-style weapons, which she has discussed with her cabinet. Unlike the U.K. or Australia, but like the U.S., New Zealand doesn't have a ban on semiautomatic weapons, although they do require a special license.
In contrast with the U.S., which managed not to pass any federal gun laws even after children were gunned down in the Sandy Hook massacre in 2012, New Zealand, Australia, and the U.K. have acted fast after shootings of this magnitude. New Zealand, similar to the States, makes it very easy to buy guns without registration and has a powerful gun lobby — though not as powerful as the National Rifle Association (NRA).
"It is heartening to see Jacinda Ardern's incredible leadership and how quickly her administration is acting in the wake of this horrific mass shooting," Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, the grassroots arm of Everytown for Gun Safety, told Refinery29. "We've had at least 200 mass shootings in America since 2009...and yet our leaders have done very little. There's a key difference between New Zealand and the U.S., and that's that we have a gun lobby that uses its power and money to persuade some lawmakers to stand in the way of laws that are proven by data and research to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people."
There's a key difference between New Zealand and the U.S., and that's that we have a gun lobby that uses its power and money to persuade some lawmakers to stand in the way of laws that keep guns out of the hands of dangerous people.
Daniel Webster, director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Policy and Research, explained to the Washington Post that while New Zealand's gun lobby and the NRA share a lot of common goals, the U.S. system of representation and the way congressional districts are drawn gives a disproportionate amount of power to rural voters, who are more likely to oppose restrictions on guns. This (and its money) is why the NRA has so much influence with certain politicians, despite the majority of the population supporting common-sense gun reform. New Zealand's voting system is designed so that small interest groups don't have disproportionate influence.
"Our form of government, with a Senate that gives extraordinary power to rural states over urban states and is deferential to states' rights, makes it difficult to advance relatively modest gun-control measures, much less more sweeping measures," Webster told the Washington Post. "The gun lobby has been very influential in convincing people the [second amendment prohibits any] form of gun control, which affects the politics over even modest measures."
New Zealand is determined not to follow in the U.S.' footsteps. Some gun owners have already voluntarily given up their weapons. "Until today I was one of the New Zealanders who owned a semiautomatic rifle. On the farm they are a useful tool in some circumstances, but my convenience doesn't outweigh the risk of misuse. We don't need these in our country," tweeted John Hart.
The online marketplace Trade Me Group said it would stop selling semiautomatic weapons after Friday's attack.
Philip Alpers of GunPolicy.org, which is hosted by the University of Sydney, told the New York Times that there are still big loopholes in the country's gun laws. "New Zealand is almost alone with the United States in not registering 96% of its firearms, and those are its most common firearms, the ones most used in crimes," he said. "There are huge gaps in New Zealand law even if some of its laws are strong."
New Zealand has a relatively low murder rate, but guns are common and very easy to obtain online and through newspaper ads. According to the Small Arms Survey, there were 1.2 million registered firearms in 2017, which makes gun ownership in the country higher than Australia's, but still far lower than the U.S., where there is more than one gun per person in a population of 327 million. After a mass shooting in 1990 in Aramoana, in which a man killed 13 people, including two children, New Zealand tightened its restrictions on semiautomatic weapons.
David Tipple, the owner of the Gun City superstore in Christchurch, said at a news conference that the suspected gunman legally bought four weapons and ammunition online from his shop between December 2017 and March 2018 and had them delivered by mail, but that he did not purchase the semiautomatic weapon he used in the attack there.
"The clear lesson from history around the world is that to make our community safer, the time to act is now," Ardern said. "I strongly believe that the vast majority of gun owners in New Zealand will agree with the sentiment that change needs to occur."
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Every prom season, a flood of 18-year-old girls swarms the local nail salon. And no matter if their dresses are blue, green, or rainbow-colored, they're all asking for the same thing: a French manicure. But this spring, we're turning the traditional prom mani — a simple, white tip — on its head and giving it a cool-girl upgrade.
If you're looking for trendy, but still minimalist, manicure inspiration — something that will get grandma's stamp of approval but you won't see on everyone else's fingernails — you'll find it in the slides ahead. From faded glitter tips to a bare nail with a teensy stripe of pink at the cuticle, scroll through to find (then screenshot) the prom manicure that'll complete your artsy corsage shot.
When I met my now soon-to-be fiancé, five years ago, I didn’t really think much of him – or us, as a thing. There was no magic or butterflies. We were in the same group of friends at university and we had flirted a bit, but he was way more interested in me than I was in him. So I was just kind of messing around and seeing where that would go, when we ended up sleeping together.
He was not my usual type, to be honest. On a dating app, he wouldn’t have stood a chance, with his serious tone and all. Also, I was 25 and pretty much committed to finding a male version of myself. I pictured me and my perfect mate listening to the same music, going to the same events, and doing things together all the time — this person just wasn’t any of this. And to this day, we don’t have that much in common.
Somehow, what started as a casual one-night stand naturally progressed into a relationship that I wasn't sure about for a long time, with people around me asking: Do you think this could work? I didn’t know, and was terrified of hurting him for not reciprocating his feelings.
It was pretty unsettling, the way all new and unexpected things are, but I was also over the highs and lows of my previous relationships and wanted to give this a chance. It felt comfortable, but it was also very ordinary. Where was the crazy, romantic head-over-heels passion? Was this what love was really 'supposed' to be like? I was questioning my feelings a lot, but not my expectations. I really stressed myself out for about a year, until I realized that maybe this was not the relationship I had imagined for myself, but it was the relationship I wanted, and still want today. I am not interested in looking for anything more, for anyone else, because even if it isn’t super exciting all the time, it is enough and we do really love each other.
It’s true, our life probably wouldn't make it into any romantic movie or TV series and I’m sure some people would call us boring, but we look after each other with love, respect and honesty. I’m OK with trading some passion for support, for showing up for someone who’s there for me when I need them. I’m done with the fantasy, with chasing a spark that would disappear anyway. I’m much more invested in building a sustainable future with someone whom I trust and can come home to after a bad day and just be myself — even my tired-looking, annoying self. But I had to learn this, I had to rewire my brain into separating emotional rollercoasters and actual feelings.
A lot of relationships, even among my friends, seem to thrive on stormy arguments, break-ups, and make-ups. And with dating apps and stuff, we’ve naturally become pickier — I mean, the whole point is to literally filter out people we don’t think would be a good match for us. I understand the thrill — been there, done that — but it’s not for me. I didn’t settle for the first person that came along, but I am so glad that in my 30s I’m not out there looking for someone, going on dates with strangers, and so on. It’s not like I’m feeling the pressure of the "biological clock" either, I don’t even want to have kids. I like going about my day, doing my thing in peace, then seeing my partner in the evening and going to bed together. I can do this, with my partner, over and over, for the rest of my life. Does this sound terribly average? Even unromantic, perhaps? We don’t do a lot of romantic things, anyway.
We don’t really plan dates or buy each other expensive gifts. He's bought me flowers once or twice, in five years. When it comes to birthdays and celebrations, I tell him what I want because it’s just easier. People may find it weird that, after such a long time together, he doesn’t know what to get me, but we have very different tastes and, honestly, I really don’t mind. I know he loves me and if you date anyone long enough, you’re going to see each other’s failings, that’s just how it is.
The question is: where do you draw the line? Do you know what you need and what makes you happy? I choose stability over fairy tale, but I’m with someone who feels like a best friend, where trust, honesty, and respect are very strong. A partnership where there’s enough love and commitment to think of building a life together. That’s where I’m meant to be, that’s who I’m meant to be with. And I wouldn’t settle for anything less.
*Name has been changed to protect the subject's identity
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Historically, my relationship with sunscreen has been sketchy at best. Throughout my teenage years, and well into early adulthood, slathering on SPF every day felt like swallowing a big vitamin with a gross aftertaste: I knew it was good for me, but I still dreaded it.
And rightfully so, because unlike the luxe moisturizers, primers, and face masks I proudly coat my face with, sunscreen hasn't always been so glam. Not every sunblock is flattering on brown skin — a pasty complexion is a definite no-no. Beyond chalkiness, there's also the question of texture; some formulas are incredibly greasy, while others zap the moisture out of dry skin.
But any dermatologist would preach that sunscreen is the key to healthy, well-protected skin — even more so if you're like me and struggle with hyperpigmentation. Some formulas have been decent enough for me to pull out occasionally, but very few have made me excited to put on (the doctor-recommended amount of) SPF every day — until Specific Beauty's Active Radiance Moisturizer came into my life.
This SPF 30 lotion, from a dermatologist-formulated brand designed specifically to treat hyperpigmentation, is a gem. It's oil-free, lightweight, and isn't tinted, but leaves behind a sheer gilded glow that ever-so-slightly illuminates the skin. No flecks of glitter, no greasy cast — just imagine if a drop of your favorite gold highlighter was blended in with your favorite nourishing face cream, and you'll get an idea of what this moisturizer has to offer.
What makes it even more impressive is its other benefits: In addition to defending skin against sun damage, niacinamide and licorice-root extract help to soothe irritation and correct unevenness — not to mention the lit-from-within glow you get when wearing it under foundation.
Now, whether I'm embarking on a full face of makeup or just running errands, I never make a move without putting on this moisturizer first. Better weather is on the horizon, and come summer I'll also be applying it to my chest and arms for a naturally-highlighted look. I wouldn't say no to a body version of this sunscreen ( ahem) but, until then, I'll be stocking up.
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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