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 bridal designer who makes $20 an hour and spends some of her money this week on throw pillows.

Occupation: Bridal Designer
Industry: Fashion/Wedding
Age: 25
Location: Chicago
Salary: $20/hr
Paycheck Amount (2x/month): ~$530 from one job, plus $200-$600/month from my contract position
Gender Identity: Woman

Monthly Expenses
Rent: $1,250
Loans: $101 (Personal loan I took out a few years ago to build my credit. I have a few months left on it.)
Netflix: $0 (My parents pay for the family.)
Spotify: $9
Squarespace: $26
Intuit Quickbooks: $10
Electricity: $10
Internet: $70
ClassPass: $19 (Paid via my Australian bank account.)
Studio Fees: $400
Savings: $25
Cell Phone: $0 (My dad pays for the family.)

Day One

6:45 a.m. — I pull myself out of bed and go for a 15-minute HIIT run around my neighborhood. When I get home I do about 20 minutes of resistance-band training for my shoulder and core. I dislocated my shoulder two weeks ago at a ninja warrior class, and it's the second time it's happened in two years. I'm trying to take my time rehabbing it, so I'm doing cardio and lower-body exercises in the meantime. I take a quick shower and do my several-step skin-care routine that I'm hoping will minimize all my acne scarring.

8:15 a.m. — I finish packing my lunch of a salad with some chicken I grilled late last week, apple slices, a Larabar, and almonds. I'm trying intermittent fasting again this week, since I can't do my usual intensity of workouts, and not having breakfast saves me so much time in the mornings!

9:30 a.m. — I get into the studio, set up my laptop, and pop my lunch in the fridge. I'm a designer in residence at an incubator that essentially acts as an accelerator to launch your fashion business. I pay monthly fees to the program, which is a nonprofit, to cover things like our computer programs, mentors, and workshops. I have to order some fabric samples I've had my eye on for a while. I'm only ordering four samples, and the first two are free, but they're coming from the U.K. so the shipping is $15. It's painful to pay that much for shipping, but it must be done. I can expense this later down the line with my accountant, so I put it on my business credit card. $17

10:45 a.m. — I meet with my design mentor, and we go over my collection and what I'm thinking for my fabrics and launch. She offers some really interesting insight based on what she's seeing from my mood boards and inspiration images for my sketches. I'll probably touch base with her again when I've got some samples finished in actual fabric.

12:10 p.m. — I can break my fast! I eat my apple slices and almonds and am thankful for the break, because I'm working on an annoyingly complicated sleeve and it's frustrating me! I spend an hour eating my salad and Larabar while watching some Netflix.

5 p.m. — I go to Starbucks across from the studio and get some Justin's Organic Peanut Butter Cups, which I eat while watching YouTube tutorials on the sleeve pattern I'm working on. I may have to start completely from scratch, but I'm honestly trying not to dwell on it. I pay with my Starbucks app, because my credit card gives me points for Starbucks and the app gives me rewards, so what's not to like? $2.15

7:20 p.m. — I finally get the pattern right and the piece is looking awesome, so I'm pleased I didn't give up! I head home on the train.

8:30 p.m. — I get home and immediately change into my sweatpants. I have leftovers from seeing my parents on the weekend to heat up, and I bulk it up with some steamed broccoli. It's really nice to live close to family again after I spent the past two years living in Australia doing my master's. I cut up a pear for dessert and watch this new show, Bless This Mess (mostly 'cause I love Dax Shepard), while working on my website before crashing at 10:30.

Daily Total: $19.15

Day Two

6:55 a.m. — I pull myself out of bed after having the weirdest dream about bridal designs. I swear I can't get away! I go for a 30-minute walk and do my shoulder exercises and some abs. If I can't work my upper body, I can at least try for abs!

9 a.m. — My day doesn't end until 8 tonight, so I give myself a little more time in the morning. I shower, wash my hair, do my skin-care routine, and put on makeup. I didn't meal prep well this weekend, so I quickly throw together a salad. I'm trying to reduce my single-use plastic, so everything goes in glass containers. It makes my bag super heavy, but it's a small inconvenience compared to how I would feel producing that much waste every day.

9:45 a.m. — I get to the studio, and it's just me — yay! I love it when I have the studio to myself in the mornings to just play my podcasts and get my headspace right for the day. I make some mint green tea and spend some time trying to sort out my Australian tax return. I lived and did my master's in Melbourne, and when I got back I filed a paper return, but it still hasn't gone through and it's been ten weeks. I email my tax guy in Melbourne to see if he can help.

12:15 p.m. — I finish up the gown I'm working on and jump on my laptop. I have a one-on-one video call with my manager for one of my jobs where I'm a contract bridal stylist. I snack on my apples with almond butter while I wait for her to get on. I wait half an hour until I get a text at 12:51 saying she's canceling. I wish she would've let us know sooner, because now I've lost about an hour of work time and I still don't know the schedule for the weekend! I go back to work for a couple hours and then take a break to eat my salad.

4:30 p.m. — I pack up my stuff and leave the studio to go to my second job, where I'm a fit specialist (I do fittings and alterations for men, women, brides, and bridesmaids). On the way, I stop at Starbucks and pick up a Perfect Bar because I'm addicted to them — the peanut butter chocolate chip is incredible!! $3.31

8:30 p.m. — I get off the train and see I have a 15-minute wait for the bus, so I run to the Aldi across the street and grab frozen corn and some blueberries. When I get home I start prepping my dinner, which is shrimp, sautéed peppers and onions, corn, black beans, and avocado, all on top of Romaine lettuce. It's DELICIOUS. I have some left over, but I practice a bit of self-control and save it for tomorrow's lunch. I start watching Grace and Frankie while I eat. I also eat some dark chocolate and a pear for dessert. $3.85

10:15 p.m. — I just checked my schedule for tomorrow, and one of my mentors has a workshop at the incubator at 9, so if I want to get a workout in in the morning, I should head to bed soon. My boyfriend calls from New Zealand as soon as I get into bed. He's Kiwi and in the final stages of getting a 12-month working visa to come live with me in the States! We talk until about 11:30, and I promptly pass out.

Daily Total: $7.16

Day Three

6:15 a.m. — My alarms go off at the same time every day, and every time it wakes me up right in the middle of an intense dream. I don't actually get out of bed until 7. I go into the living room to do some lower-body Pilates exercises and my shoulder training. I have to get out of the house pretty quickly, but I feel like the pass on my Ventra card is about to expire. I spend a good ten minutes trying to add money on the app, but it's not working. I chance it and run to the bus, and my pass works!

8:30 a.m. — While I'm on the train, I notice that my bag zipper has busted open! It's been giving me trouble for a while, but I only just got it in Melbourne at a vintage market six months ago! I start Googling repair places to take it to when I get paid.

12:30 p.m. — After our workshops and one-on-ones with our mentors, I eat my leftover shrimp taco salad and some blueberries and almonds while I watch YouTube pattern-making videos.

2:30 p.m. — I definitely didn't bring enough food today, so surprise surprise, I go to Starbucks and get a Perfect Bar because they're filing, delicious, and PERFECT. $3.31

3 p.m. — After I chat with our program manager, she reminds me that I get 12 essentially free hours of pattern-making and sample-making expensed by the incubator per year. It's great because it means I can have someone else pattern the more complex pieces in my collection, which saves me time and stress!

5:45 p.m. — I leave the studio to go to Thursday Therapy with a friend. Its a free networking event put on once a month where professionals in the wedding industry can meet and mingle! I have to top up my Ventra for sure this time, and when I do, I see that it's negative $8 somehow! Usually I do a week pass, but I know I'm driving more this weekend, so I just load $20. $20

8:40 p.m. — The event was so fun! So much delicious free food and cocktails, plus I met some new industry friends. Now that I'm back in Chicago and really trying to make a go of my business, I'm putting myself out there even more and flexing my tiny extroverted side. I get home super full, so I wash all my Tupperware from my lunch and change into sweats. Some fabric samples came in the mail, so I put on Grace and Frankie, go through fabric, and text my mom before crawling into bed at 10.

Daily Total: $23.31

Day Four

6:45 a.m. — Alarm goes off and same deal: pull myself out of bed 30 minutes later and do my living room workout. I'm hoping to get a chance to talk to a physical therapist about my shoulder today — just waiting to verify my insurance coverage.

8 a.m. — I hard-boil some eggs for lunch along with carrots, almonds, blueberries, and a Perfect Bar that I found in the back of my fridge. I start work at 9 today at the tailoring place, and I like to try to get there at least ten minutes early.

12 p.m. — While I snack on my almonds and blueberries, my boss and I chat about the fashion industry in Chicago and its many flaws and difficulties. He seems excited for me to start my own venture and keen to help in any way!

2 p.m. — I leave one job and head to my other job. I stop into Jewel first to get some work snacks: turkey jerky and Chex Muddy Buddies, because I'm a serious snacker and have at least three hours to kill before my appointments. I check into the room at the hotel where we take brides and immediately have my lunch and snack while I set up the gowns. $8.34

3 p.m. — Apparently, as I was walking to the hotel, a ton of cards fell out of my wallet! None of the important credit cards, but things like membership cards and library cards. I didn't realize until a stranger messaged me on Facebook to let me know she had them. I run down to meet her about a block away. People can be so great!

8 p.m. — I had two brides tonight, both of whom were lovely and I think found their gowns, but want to come back with their important decision-makers, like mom and mothers-in-law. Even though we have a one-appointment policy, I get them both on a waitlist for 30-minute second appointments. I get home and I'm still so full from snacking that I don't even want dinner, which is super weird for me. I put on sweats and water my plants. I got more samples in the mail, so I sit on the couch to have a look through them — with Grace and Frankie, of course. Boyfriend calls and we talk until around 11, then I finally pull myself off the couch and go to bed.

Daily Total: $8.34

Day Five

9:30 a.m. — I get to sleep in today! I wake up around 8:30-ish but just lounge in bed and scroll for a bit before getting up and heading to the gym. I just moved and don't have a steady gym membership yet, so I just booked a ClassPass gym-time session.

10 a.m. — I start with a ten-minute warm-up on the StairMaster, then do about 30 minutes of lower-body strength with dumbbells. I finish with 30 minutes on the elliptical, and I feel SO good, despite the fact that it's snowing when I leave, wtf Chicago?!

12:30 p.m. — I'm suddenly starving, so I decide to make a smoothie bowl topped with paleo granola, cashew yogurt, blueberries, and almond butter. I fry up two eggs as well. When I finish eating, I blowdry my bangs, put my hair in a quick braid, and head out to do some fittings.

2 p.m. — A friend of a friend is getting married in three weeks, and she needs a bustle put on her gown along with some bridesmaid alterations. Two of her bridesmaids aren't there, and one of them agrees to come and meet me at my place to get her fitting done later. Alterations help me pay down my business credit card expenses for things like fabric and supplies.

7 p.m. — During my at-home fitting, my friend who I was supposed to hang out with tonight texts me to see if we can raincheck, as they've got a bad migraine. I don't mind, since the weather is so gross, so I make chickpea pasta and mix in ground turkey and marinara sauce and steam broccoli on the side.

8 p.m. — I'm texting one of my best friends, who I met in Australia, about how I really want to get ice cream, but I either have to walk to the store in the snow or order UberEats with a dumb $5 delivery fee. The next thing I know, she sends me a screenshot of her UberEats app, and she's sending Jeni's Ice Cream straight to my door from Australia! If that isn't friendship, I truly don't know what is! After eating most but not all of the pint, I wash my face and get ready for bed and read until around 10:30, when I pass out.

Daily Total: $0

Day Six

7:15 a.m. — My bloated dairy belly wakes me up, but it was so worth it. I leave for work around 8, so I can get there around 9 and have enough time to prep before my appointment at 10.

11:45 a.m. — My first appointment went really well, and we found her gown! Second appointment was just a 30-minute follow-up for a bride I had last week who bought her dress but wanted to show it to her other friends and flower girl. I bag up the gowns and clean up the room before heading home around 12:45. My Ventra pass is out of money, so I put a seven-day pass on. $28

1:45 p.m. — I get home and have a friend coming by to pick up her bridesmaid dress that I hemmed for her. I have some time to kill, so I give the bathroom a good scrub-down, which is usually on my Sunday to-do list. My friend is really happy with her dress, and she brings me two little propagated Monstera leaves to say thank you. I'm a plant lover and had the most beautiful Monstera in Australia that I still miss every day.

4 p.m. — Gym time! Same deal as yesterday, start with the StairMaster, then do 30-minute ab circuit and finish with 30 minutes of elliptical.

6 p.m. — I get home and start doing some meal prep for the week, like spiralizing zucchini into noodles and chopping salad ingredients. While I'm doing this, my friend F. texts me and invites me to her friend's bachelorette party next weekend. It's on Saturday, and I'm working 10-5, so I have to miss the pole-dancing class, unfortunately (I probably can't do it with my shoulder anyway?), but I can join for dinner, drinks, and dancing. When my meal prep is done, I wash my face and do a face mask and watch 90 Day Fiancé while texting my boyfriend. I heat up leftovers for dinner and head to bed around 10.

Daily Total: $28

Day Seven

7:15 a.m. — It's raining today, so I get up and do some leg exercises in the living room, with abs and shoulder rehab. I shower, wash my hair, and pack up all my laundry that I'm taking to my parents' house today. My dad insists that I bring my laundry home 1) to save money, and 2) because he thinks my laundry room is unsafe. It's completely fine, but if he feels more comfortable, I'm happy to have free laundry done. I'm heading to a fabric meeting this morning and see I got paid from my contract job, so I immediately pay my internet and electric bills.

12:30 p.m. — Fabric meeting was really good this morning, and I order a few swatches to hopefully be mailed to me within a week. When it's done, I get back in my car and drive to the suburbs. Before I get to my parents' house, I stop at my usual salon and get my bangs trimmed, which they do for free. I also need to get gas but decide to stop off before I head home tonight. When I get to my parents' house, I make some lunch of two fried eggs, sautéed spinach, and a quarter of an avocado.

3 p.m. — My mom and I decide to go thrifting, so we go to Goodwill and I find an awesome gold magazine rack for $3 and a spice rack for $2. My mom is lovely and pays for them for me.

4 p.m. — Mom and I also hit up Target and have a look through the home goods. I find some great throw pillows that are on clearance, from $25 down to $8, so I grab the three that are there for my couch. I also get a box of Larabars for my lunches this week, which my mom says she'll get for me as well because I think she likes for me to be fed? I pay for my pillows with my Target REDcard, so I get 5% off the total price. $26.22

7:15 p.m. — After I have dinner with my parents and cuddle with their cat, I load up my car with my purchases and leftovers and head back to the city. I stop and get gas because it's way cheaper in the suburbs and drive back into the city. I spend the rest of the night nibbling on gingersnaps my mom gave me and watching more Grace and Frankie. I head to bed around 10:30 after a quick phone call with the boyfriend. $30

Daily Total: $56.22

We want to know: What's your most embarrassing Instagram story? Ever accidentally sent someone an emoji in response to their IG Story that you did NOT intend to send? Ever liked an ex's new girlfriend's mom's post from three years ago? Accidentally DM-ed your boss something you shouldn't have? We want to know about it! Fill out this form for a chance to be featured on our site.

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

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

Do you have a Money Diary you'd like to share? Submit it with us here.

Have questions about how to submit or our publishing process? Read our Money Diaries FAQ doc here: r29.co/mdfaqs

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

A Week In San Diego, CA, On A $44,148 Salary

I'm A Graphic Designer — & I Made $200K By Starting My Own Business

A Week In Boston, MA, On A $53,000 Salary

Whether it’s a mosquito bite or an allergic reaction, itching can be annoying… especially when it’s your vulva or vagina that’s itching. While you might jump to “yeast infection ” as the explanation for an itchy vagina, it’s not the only cause. Itching is a symptom of many types of vaginal infections, both sexually transmitted and not. And itching can be caused by other factors, too (anyone else ever regret buying the cheapest bubble bath?).

While some itchy vaginas can be remedied at home, if your itching is persistent, you’ll want to get checked out by a professional. We talked to nurse practitioner Ebony Midcalf, MSPH, MSN, WHNP-BC about common causes of an itchy vag.

Yeast Infection

Although a yeast infection isn’t the only explanation for vaginal itching, it is a common one — about 75% of people with vaginas will have at least one yeast infection in their lives. “In the case of a suspected yeast infection, over-the-counter yeast creams can be used, and in some cases the yeast infection will resolve,” explains Midcalf. "However, over-the-counter medications can be more irritating or even not effective at all." Plus, one study found that about two-thirds of cis women who self-diagnose yeast infections don’t actually have yeast infections, so it’s a good idea to see a doctor to know for sure.

Along with itching, other symptoms of yeast infections include an irritated or swollen vulva, cottage cheese-like discharge, and pain during sex. A yeast infection happens when a change in your vaginal environment causes the small amount of yeast that’s there normally to overgrow.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis, aka BV, is often mistaken for a yeast infection. BV is “a shift in the pH balance of the vagina,” explains Midcalf. “It can cause itching, as well as an odor often described as ‘fishy.’” Like yeast infections, BV is common — in fact, according to the CDC, it’s the most common vaginal infection in cis women ages 15-44, even more common than yeast infections. Along with itchiness and odor, common symptoms include a gray or white discharge and a burning feeling when you pee (similar to a UTI). Like yeast infections, BV is treatable with medication.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, aka trich, is a common sexually transmitted infection that has similar symptoms as BV and yeast infections. According to the CDC, trich is the most common curable STI in sexually active women, and it’s cured with antibiotics. It’s caused by a parasite and can be transferred to a partner, so if you do have trich, you should give your partner or partners a heads-up so they can get treated, too. Along with itching, trich symptoms include a yellow-green discharge, a foul odor, and irritation. However, the majority of people with trich — about 70% — don’t show symptoms.

Gonorrhea Or Chlamydia

Midcalf names chlamydia and gonorrhea as two common STIs that include itching as a possible symptoms. Other symptoms for both chlamydia and gonorrhea include abnormal discharge and a burning feeling while peeing, and gonorrhea may also lead to spotting between periods.

Other STIs

Some other common STIs, such as genital herpes, genital warts, and pubic lice, also include itching as a possible symptom. You should get tested for STIs “at least yearly” even if you have no symptoms, Midcalf says.

Other Irritation

“Non-infectious causes also greatly contribute to many cases of vaginal itching,” Midcalf explains. If your vulva has come into contact with a material such as “scented feminine hygiene products, soaps, detergents, and latex, to name a few,” you may experience itching. This can be cured by simply stopping contact — for example, changing your detergent or making sure to wear breathable cotton underwear.

Less Common Causes

Midcalf points out that there are also less common explanations for vulva itchiness, including skin conditions such as eczema, lichen sclerosus, or lichen planus, and, rarely, malignancy such as vulval cancer.

What To Do About An Itchy Vagina

“There are few scenarios that can be treated at home when it comes to vaginal itching,” Midcalf says. These scenarios include stopping the use of an irritating product or trying an over-the-counter treatment for a yeast infection. “Many of the causes of vaginal itching have similar symptoms and are therefore difficult to self-diagnose,” Midcalf says. “Therefore, it is best to see a professional for persistent symptoms, and yeast symptoms that are not relieved by over-the-counter yeast creams.”

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

July 4th Weekend Is A Good Time To Buy Sex Toys—Here Are The Best Sales

Why You Should Add Neck Kissing To Your Makeout Repertoire

You Don’t Get Pregnant Immediately After Sex — Here’s When It Really Happens

With memorable appearances in RuPaul’s Drag Race and A Star Is Born, Shangela is one most of the recognizable drag queens performing today. Earlier this month, she took the runner-up spot in New York magazine’s list of the most powerful drag queens in America. It was well-deserved: Shangela has been performing for over a decade. Which means she’s seen drag skyrocket in visibility, and she’s performed at a lot of Pride celebrations.

This year, Shangela will emcee the first annual Love Above All Ball, a philanthropic, black-tie gala held at the Rainbow Room on Friday, June 28. The night will feature performances from Marina, Betty Who, and magician Adam Cardone, as well as DJ sets by Casey Spooner, Nicky Siano, and Miss Guy. It’s one of the fanciest ways we can think of to celebrate Stonewall’s 50th anniversary, and it’s a good cause, too — proceeds will benefit Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation. We caught up with Shangela ahead of the event.

How did you get involved with the Love Above All Ball?

I’m Shangela, honey. Whenever they say we’re celebrating Pride, I’m like, honey, I’ll be there. I think Pride is such an amazing reminder for all of us to continue to stand up for who we are and celebrate equality. It’s really awesome that Rainbow Room is hosting one of their first Pride events at this space — it is called the Rainbow Room, after all.

What are some of the most memorable ways you’ve celebrated Pride?

One of the most special moments for me was participating in the Pride parade in New York City a few years ago. It was three hours long, and I remember coming down the avenues and seeing so many people — people from all walks of life, of all different nationalities — all celebrating love and equality.

I love that you Tweeted about how important it is to celebrate Pride in smaller towns. Here in New York we have so much going on for Pride, but that’s not the case everywhere.

I call myself a small town shero. I was born in a small town called Paris, Texas. Growing up, there were not a lot of people that were openly gay, and there were not any people that I saw celebrating Pride. I know how important it is to have that type of visibility. I hope to continue to go from large city to small town, always standing up not only for who I am, but for the belief that it’s important to live your best life visibly.

This year is the 50th anniversary of Stonewall, but we’re also seeing the Trump administration refusing to let embassies fly the Pride flag and working to roll back LGBTQ+ rights. What’s it like to celebrate Pride in this environment?

We have to remember that Pride was built out of protest because of the inequalities that the LGBTQ+ community faced. I’m hoping that this Pride, people will remember that the work is not over. It’s important for us to have a voice, and use our voice, and say it out loud and be proud.

We’ve seen drag become so popular recently, but you’ve been performing for a lot longer. What have these past few years been like for you?

Since I first started my drag career 10 years ago and stepped onto RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 2, not only have I grown and evolved as an entertainer, but the acceptance and the visibility of drag has also evolved. I’ve been really fortunate to be a part of that growth and that conversation and that experience. But even though there has been a great evolution in the acceptance of drag, there are still a lot of people who don’t know much about it. So it is important for us to get out there and continue to be our most authentic selves and celebrate that.

You also launched a podcast earlier this year. Why did you decide to branch out into that medium?

I’m Shangela, I’ve done just about everything. Just last year I did a 184-city tour. I’ve done television. I’ve done film. I listen to a lot of different podcasts and I was like, “I’ve got something to say, too!” I’ve been able to invite really awesome guests on my show, such as Andy Cohen and Lena Waithe and Kathy Griffin.

You were in A Star Is Born last year, an audition you initially turned down. Do you have plans to continue acting?

Yes, definitely. I’m co-writing a feature film right now with my friend Deborah Dean Davis. It’s a fun comedy feature that highlights the world of drag that people may not know. In addition to that, I’m out there auditioning.

It’s really cool the Love Above All Ball is benefiting the Born this Way foundation, because Lady Gaga, through all of the A Star Is Born [promotion], talked about there can be 100 people in a room but it only takes one to believe in you. She has continuously been one of my ones. I’m thankful to do this event benefiting an organization she helped found.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

What Spotting Before Your Period Could Mean

July 4th Weekend Is A Good Time To Buy Sex Toys—Here Are The Best Sales

Can Uber's JUMP Bikes Reimagine Your Morning Commute?

On Sunday, Shane Walker, 36, was arrested in the murder of his girlfriend, Air National Guard member Alla Ausheva, and their two young children. Police charged the Staten Island man with 12 counts of murder, three counts of manslaughter, three counts of criminal possession of a weapon, and three counts of arson. Walker reportedly had a troubling past of domestic violence accusations, which experts say follows a trend of escalation that occurs in abusive relationships.

Ausheva, 37, and the couple's sons, 2-year-old Ivan and 3-year-old Elia, were found dead in their Staten Island home on Saturday morning, the New York Post reported. The toddlers appeared to have been drowned in the bathtub, and their mother appeared to have been bludgeoned to death, although police sources revealed on Monday that she may have died from a stab wound on her neck (Walker later reportedly led police to a knife). Ausheva had an active order of protection, set to expire on July 8, against Walker.

Police received a call on Saturday morning about an assault in progress at the home. When they arrived, the officers noticed smoke and a small fire. Firefighters put out the fire and found the bodies in the bedroom. All three were pronounced dead at the scene. Police revealed that Ausheva’s supervisor made the 911 call after discovering the scene; she was checking in on Ausheva after Walker was found walking along the highway with her military ID and cell phone earlier that morning. "Someone called me to go there and check on her," the supervisor told the New York Post. "I’m sorry. It’s just a tragedy. She didn’t deserve it. Honestly, there are no words."

Walker was captured on surveillance video coming out of the home and stumbling into his car drunk early Saturday morning, police sources said. At around 7:30 a.m., Walker reportedly rear-ended a box truck on the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, and was picked up by police wandering along the highway. He was taken to Maimonides Medical Center for evaluation. He was scheduled to be arraigned on Monday, but he allegedly head-butted a police officer as he was being transported from the medical center to Staten Island Criminal court. He was taken to Bellevue Hospital for a psychiatric evaluation after the incident, and the arraignment was pushed to Tuesday.

Details have emerged about Walker’s troubling violent past. In December, he was arrested for allegedly hitting Ausheva. Walker accused Ausheva of “fooling around on him” after she returned from a Dunkin’ Donuts run, sources told the New York Post. Her order of protection against him also prohibited him from contacting his sons at the time of her murder.

“Escalation is when abuse gets worse, either suddenly or gradually… Over the course of an abusive relationship, it is common for abuse to escalate,” according to The National Domestic Violence Hotline. “Some abusive partners will stop at absolutely nothing to gain power and control over their partners, and one of the most irrevocable things they can do is end your life.”

The slain military woman had moved to the U.S. from Russia in 2011 as a Green Card lottery recipient and joined the New York Army National Guard soon after her arrival. She was sworn into citizenship at the White House by President Barack Obama on July 4, 2012. Ausheva transferred to the Air National Guard in 2014 and went on to achieve Airman First Class status.

Ausheva enjoyed singing and dreamt of performing on-stage. “One year ago, I moved from Russia — that’s when my first dream came true. Then in [the] summer, I joined U.S. Army — that’s when my second dream came true,” she said in a 2012 video posted to YouTube. “Now I’m singing on the stage…my third dream came true.”

Fellow service members pray together after their comrade, a woman, and two children were found dead in their SI home. Sources I.d her as Alla Ausheva. She was honored by President Obama in 2012. Read more @NY1 > https://t.co/8lvtu8jlwB pic.twitter.com/EiY7CKoSYm

— Van Tieu (@Van_Tieu) June 22, 2019

If you are experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or TTY 1-800-787-3224 for confidential support.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Sex Cult Leader Who Told Women They Would Gain Powers Through Killing Faces Death Penalty

Charges Dropped Against Marshae Jones In Shooting Death Of Her Unborn Baby

Mackenzie Lueck's Alleged Killer Had Been Accused Of Rape & Threats

As Demi Lovato will tell you, there's nothing wrong with being confident. But Lovato isn’t the only authority on putting faith in yourself. Just ask the soccer players of United States Women’s National Team, who are absolutely crushing it at the World Cup this year.

Over the years, the players have offered up some truly inspirational quotes about believing in who you are and what you do. Here are just a few quotes that may inspire you to have confidence in yourself.

Megan Rapinoe

“I do wish, when I was younger, that I knew that I was gay,” Rapinoe wrote in a letter to her 13-year-old self published in The Bleacher Report. It would have made things a lot clearer for me. Really. Looking back on it, it was so obvious, but it never really dawned on me. Socially, I felt like I didn't know how to be and who to be. If I had known back then, it would have given me more self-confidence.”

Later in the same letter, she wrote: “I don't think anyone who has ever spoken out, or stood up or had a brave moment, has regretted it. It's empowering and confidence-building and inspiring. Not only to other people, but to yourself.”

Alex Morgan

In a letter to “the girls of the world” published on CNN ’ s website, Morgan wrote: “It's important that as women, we stand up for ourselves, stand up for our peers, and show the power that confidence can have for women everywhere.”

In an interview with Seventeen, she said “"I have to look at myself in the mirror and tell myself that I'm beautiful, even if I don't necessarily believe it… I feel the most confident when I'm comfortable in workout clothes with my hair up in a ponytail."

Lindsey Horan

“Growing up I was the most shy, nervous girl,” Lindsay Horan said in an Adidas commercial. “I think soccer really brought everything out of me. I had to sit there and tell myself… You are good enough. You are one of the best players, that’s why you’re out here. You need to be confident in that and don’t ever let anyone say otherwise.”

Kelley O’Hara

“For me it’s just about that self-confidence and finding what you love and just chasing after it with reckless abandon and never letting anyone tell you that you can’t do something,” she told People in 2015 after the U.S. Women's National Team’s World Cup win that year. “If you have a goal and you set your mind to it, you can absolutely achieve it.”

Becky Sauerbrunn

“I’ve been given a lot of freedom and asked to be more of a leader,” she told The St. Louis Post-Dispatch in 2015. “That’s translated into confidence and it’s definitely carried over to my play with the national team. A big part of my job is communication, making sure everybody’s in position and that everything in the back is organized.”

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

What Spotting Before Your Period Could Mean

July 4th Weekend Is A Good Time To Buy Sex Toys—Here Are The Best Sales

Can Uber's JUMP Bikes Reimagine Your Morning Commute?

The universe is currently in the process of bringing back all the things we loved from the early aughts, but with a new-and-improved spin. Case in point: The revival of The Hills with some of our favorite cast members all grown up , the Jonas Brothers' musical reunion, Rihanna's red hair, and now the return of Danity Kane.

The trio rose to fame on the hit MTV series Making The Band — which we also wouldn't mind getting back ( cough, cough) — and gave us hits like "Damaged" and "Showstopper." Now, Dawn Richard, Aubrey O'Day, and Shannon Bex are back with a new single and an edgy transformation. The group released the artwork for their new single,"Neon Lights," and each woman is wearing a neon, buzzcut wig to match with the theme.

Richard wore a magenta piece with the eyebrows to match; O'Day's hair was dyed highlighter green; and Bex wore a fire-orange piece, which fans quickly compared to Annie Lennox and P!nk circa early 2000.

O'Day's colorist, Amie Jorgensen, tells Refinery29 that it took three hours to turn a blonde wig neon green for her client. "We originally decided on neon yellow, then we went with green at the last moment," she says. "I used Pravana Vivids Neon Green and Pulp Riot Area 51 to transform the platinum blonde hair."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Danity Kane (@danitykane) on Jun 24, 2019 at 3:14pm PDT

Naturally, fans were as pumped about the band's return as they were about their new looks.

Danity Kane gave me the itch to dye my hair.
That little heat and sizzle.. pic.twitter.com/FfnCNAFXRY

— Arya Mothafuckin Stark. (@clvssicbreezy) June 24, 2019

I cannot believe that in 2019 I’ve woken up to new Danity Kane music and it’s this good! Rushing out to buy clippers and neon hair dye @AubreyODay @DawnRichard @ShannonBex https://t.co/GgLG8HE2FM pic.twitter.com/t1TK0RBeJa

— Ben O'Callaghan (@benocallaghan) June 24, 2019

Ya’ll. Shannon from Danity Kane is giving us Pink in 2000 and I STAN! pic.twitter.com/CzBAcm2vFw

— Hassan Sayyed (@HausUrban) June 21, 2019

With a new banger out and a bold look to match, 2019 Danity Kane has clearly returned to the music scene with a vengeance, and we're not complaining. Now, excuse us while we listen to "Damaged" on repeat to complete this high school nostalgia moment.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Mushroom Blonde Is The Perfect In-Between Hair Color For Summer

California Just Became The First State To Ban Discrimination Based On Natural Hair

The Model's Guide To Easy Beach Hair For Every Type & Texture

On Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. ET, the employees of Wayfair are staging a walkout in response to their CEO's alleged refusal to cease supplying furniture to immigration detention centers on the U.S.-Mexico border.

Over 500 Wayfair employees reportedly signed a letter (posted to the Twitter account @wayfairwalkout) urging the company to end business with contractors like BCFS, a government contractor managing migrant camps, and to establish a code of ethics that would prevent such future business deals, following the news that Wayfair had reportedly fulfilled a $200,000 order for bedroom furniture for a facility in Carrizo Springs, TX. This facility, according to the letter, “will be outfitted to detain up to 3,000 migrant children seeking legal asylum in the United States,” and is one of many detention centers that many are likening to concentration camps for their inhumane living conditions. The New York Times recently reported on the horrifying conditions at a nearby center in Clint, TX, where overcrowding and a lack of basic supplies like soap render the center unsafe and unsanitary.

In response to a recent letter signed by 547 employees, our CEO said that the company would not cease doing business with contractors furnishing border camps. We ask that the company donate the $86,000 in profit they made from this sale to RAICES. #wayfairwalkout

— wayfairwalkout (@wayfairwalkout) June 25, 2019

Wayfair executives reportedly sent a letter to employees maintaining that the company would uphold its dealings with BCFS, citing their commitment to "respecting diversity of thought" and fulfilling all legal orders. A post featuring the alleged letter reads: "As a retailer, it is standard practice to fulfill orders for all customers and we believe it is our business to sell to any customer who is acting within the laws of the countries within which we operate."

Wayfair workers couldn’t stomach they were making beds to cage children.

They asked the company to stop. CEO said no.

Tomorrow, they‘re walking out.

This is what solidarity looks like - a reminder that everyday people have real power, as long as we’re brave enough to use it. https://t.co/667abeLDTG

— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) June 25, 2019

In response, @wayfairwalkout says employees are staging a walkout at Copley Square in Boston and calls on Wayfair to donate the profits from the sale to RAICES, an immigration services organization that supports underserved immigrant families, children, and refugees.

Customers are also taking to Twitter to denounce Wayfair's stance and to publicly share that they have cancelled their orders.

I'm removing their app from my phone and not buying from them again. There are so many other options to make the same purchases. I'm not supporting their stance on this issue.

— Rebecca (@Reb0924) June 25, 2019

This story is developing. Refinery29 has reached out to Wayfair and @Wayfairwalkout for comment.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

A Week In San Diego, CA, On A $44,148 Salary

I'm A Graphic Designer — & I Made $200K By Starting My Own Business

A Week In Boston, MA, On A $53,000 Salary

One of our favorite things about fashion is the constant refresh. There’s always something new around the corner, whether it’s a seasonal turnover from one of our favorite designers, an unseen silhouette that’s suddenly appearing in every store and every feed, or, even better, a brand-new shop that we’ve never encountered before. That last one might be the most exciting one for those of us on the Shopping team, and luckily, the past few years have been good to us in this regard. Despite much chatter about retail’s decline, new boutiques pop up all the time, leaving us with more choice than ever as to where to allocate our dollars. (Remember to recycle your old clothes and shop consciously for new ones, friends!)

We’ve seen so many new retailers crop up, in fact, that we decided to do a deep dive on some of our faves. To ensure that we don’t keep you here all day, we narrowed our focus to stores that have opened in the past two years, and ones that are either multi-brand or, if not, stock enough merchandise to keep you scrolling/browsing for a good chunk of your lunch break. We’ve included shops that cater to every budget, so whether you’re in the market for a cheap-and-cheerful summer dress or an artisan-made leather bag that you’ll tote every day, you'll hopefully get something out of this list. And while you may have heard of a few shops in our roundup — especially if you’re a regular R29 reader — we tried to eliminate any obvious banner names, because we want to make sure you feel the same rush of discovery that we do.

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.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

The Best Under-$150 Buys Of The Month

These 4th Of July Fashion Sales Will Leave You Starry-Eyed

Every Piece You Need To Master The Most Confusing Dress Code

Actress Sarah Hyland was hospitalized over the weekend for a mystery illness that caused her to have trouble breathing. She explained on her Instagram story that doctors had “no scientific explanation” for her medical issues, despite keeping her in the hospital from Friday to Monday.

"Long story short, I went in because I was feeling like I was being choked from whatever's in the house, and I was like, maybe it's actually a coincidence, [or] maybe there's actually something medically wrong with me," she said. “So I went to the ER after a very long day of work with lots of makeup on.” She also experienced some chest pain, along with her shortness of breath, she explained.

“They ran multiple tests, multiple times, and there’s nothing physically wrong with me. Sooo, wonder why I was there?” she said in her story.

Hyland is no stranger to hospital visits. The star has been diagnosed with both kidney dysplasia — which means the organs form painful cysts because they weren’t developed properly in the womb — as well as endometriosis. In total, People reports that she’s had 16 surgeries throughout her 28 years of life.

In her Instagram story, she thanked her followers for “sending well-wishes.” Here’s hoping the medical ailments she experienced weren't anything too serious.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

What Spotting Before Your Period Could Mean

July 4th Weekend Is A Good Time To Buy Sex Toys—Here Are The Best Sales

Can Uber's JUMP Bikes Reimagine Your Morning Commute?

More than 150 young people rallied outside the headquarters of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) on Tuesday with a single demand: Hold a presidential primary debate focused solely on the issue of climate change.

The protest, organized by the youth-led organization Sunrise Movement, comes as polls find that a large number of voters point to climate change as a top-priority issue in the 2020 presidential election. A recent Refinery29 reader survey found that 28% of readers said they want candidates to address the issue in the upcoming first debates on June 26 and 27. Activists hoped that the DNC would allow for at least one of the dozen sanctioned presidential debates to be dedicated exclusively to climate change, which would make way for the crowded field of presidential hopefuls to discuss in detail how they plan to address this crisis if they're elected to the Oval Office — but the leadership has denied their request.

On June 11, DNC Chair Tom Perez posted an open letter on Medium, writing that a climate change-focused debate could set off calls for debates on a host of other subjects. "If we change our guidelines at the request of one candidate who has made climate change their campaign’s signature issue, how do we say no to the numerous other requests we’ve had?" he wrote in reference to presidential candidate Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, who has made climate change his top issue. "How do we say no to other candidates in the race who may request debates focused on an issue they’ve made central to their own campaigns?" (The DNC did not respond to Refinery29's requests for comment.)

But activists say climate change is not just one issue. "Climate change is an emergency that impacts every aspect of our life," Juliana Rossi de Camargo, a 25-year-old Sunrise activist, told Refinery29. "It's not a single issue. Climate change affects everything from housing to public health to our economy. It's also a social justice and a national security issue. Stopping climate change will require mobilization on every sector of our society and our economy. We need a debate to hear where our candidates stand on this, so we can hold them accountable once they are in office."

Young people with @Sunrisemvmt are standing outside the @DNC to demand a #ClimateDebate and to treat climate change like the emergency it is by supporting a #GreenNewDeal pic.twitter.com/OHmr7QvP9c

— Sunrise Movement 🌅 (@sunrisemvmt) June 25, 2019

Activists, who says they have been unfazed by the refusal, are prepared to stay outside the DNC headquarters until their demands are met — even if it means being there overnight. "Tom Perez has a lot of nerve to say that we should be satisfied with climate questions and not a debate," Zina Precht-Rodriguez, a 22-year-old activist who works on Sunrise Movement's press team, told Refinery29. "The media and the political establishment have not taken this issue seriously for the entirety of my lifetime. In the 2016 Democratic primary debates, I think less than 2% of the questions were focused on climate." She added: "We need to hear the climate plans that all these candidates have been putting out and judge for ourselves which one we trust to elect to office. ... This is merely a matter of Tom Perez making arbitrary rules. He has the power to change these rules and host a climate debate."

At least 15 presidential candidates, including former Vice President Joe Biden, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, support a debate dedicated to discussing climate change and potential solutions. The science advocacy group 314 Action has pledged $100,000 toward hosting a climate-focused debate, despite the DNC's objections. "We would like to see the candidates pressure the DNC themselves to hold a climate debate," Rossi de Camargo said. "We would also like to see their climate plans in more detail."

The media and the political establishment have not taken this issue seriously for the entirety of my lifetime.

The climate crisis is perhaps the greatest threat humanity faces to this day. Last fall, a report released by the United Nations’ scientific panel on climate change said that by 2040 the planet would undergo a multi-faceted crisis of disastrous magnitudes, including everything from food shortages and extreme poverty to wildfires, droughts, and the death of all coral reefs. The panel urged that in order to try to minimize the damage in the next two decades, the world economy would have to be transformed at a scale and pace that has "no documented historic precedent." Another report, commissioned and released by the U.S. government in November, found that climate change would also put public health and the national economy at unprecedented risk in the next century.

Activists such as Precht-Rodriguez argue that climate change deserves its own debate because it impacts a wide range of areas of Americans' daily lives: public health, weather-related disasters and their aftermath such as the wildfires in California and Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, the economy, and more. "These issues are not only going to happen in the future," she said, "but we know they are already happening now."

It's no shocker, then, that young people have been at the forefront of demanding political leaders take action before it's too late. For example, the Green New Deal, an ambitious reform that seeks to tackle climate change and income inequality in the next decade, has been pushed from the fringes to mainstream discourse in great part due to the work of young activists from Sunrise Movement and similar climate-focused organizations.

Destiney Lee, a 22-year-old Sunrise activist, said the fight against climate change is quite literally a fight for our lives. She added: "It’s not about our generation, but the generations to come."

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Sex Cult Leader Who Told Women They Would Gain Powers Through Killing Faces Death Penalty

Charges Dropped Against Marshae Jones In Shooting Death Of Her Unborn Baby

Mackenzie Lueck's Alleged Killer Had Been Accused Of Rape & Threats

Despite the bandeau's prevalence amongst off-duty celebrities and the tiny-sunglass-ed blogger set, it wasn't either group that inspired beauty and lifestyle creator Leah Allyannah to make bra tops a style signature — it was actually a photo of her mother from the '90s, taken shortly after she'd arrived in America from Guyana.

"My mom and I have similar styles, like how I dress now is how she used to dress when she was younger," says the 21-year-old native New Yorker. "When I look at pictures, she’s wearing the high-waisted pants with crop tops, the knee-high socks, and chunky sneakers. I think since I have that style, she remembers that she dressed how she wanted when she came here, so she wants me to do the same."

Fashion moves in a cyclical pattern — with the late 20th century hovering at the top of the wheel for seasons now — but regardless of trends, strong, uniquely American style does seem to run in the Allyannah family. Take Leah's looks here, all from H&M's celebratory 4th of July collection, which demonstrate the fearless dressing she attributes to her mom and dad becoming Americans in their late teens. As immigrants, they readily adopted the clothes of their new home as a form of assimilation; then, as parents, they handed down this openness, inspiring Leah to develop her own sense of sartorial freedom.

"Since they came here as young adults, they’re more lenient with my style, like wearing crop tops and accentuating my body. I feel like in my culture, I was one of the first to start dressing like this on YouTube and [online]. I was the first Guyanese girl just being myself and standing out, in a way. My parents encourage me to dress and look however I want."

Her love of color, torso-hugging denim, space buns, and exposed midriffs might not seem all that shocking today, but growing up in a relatively conservative culture in which "you can be judged for how you dress, if you’re showing your stomach too much or just being a woman," Allyannah says that she was frequently on the receiving end of stares. (There's no lingering resentment, though — she chalks it up to "Guyanese people always [having] something to say. They’re not hating, they’re just giving their input.") But as time passed, Allyannah says she found more confidence — and acceptance from her peers. "It was kind of uncomfortable, like, Dang, this is what I want to wear. But now, I’m just like whatever. It’s a new generation, and everybody wants to dress differently. Now, people aren’t as judgmental."

In Allyannah's career, too, she says she's enjoyed a degree of independence. Her parents, both of whom are market data analysts, have embraced her work in the arts, a path that had been unavailable to them in Guyana. In fact, while her mom and dad passed down their own interests in acting and photography, any pressure to consider a more traditional path came from Allyannah herself.

"Some of my friends’ parents want them to be doctors or nurses or pharmacists. I’m just glad my parents came here and saw that you should just keep moving forward. In the back of my head, [though], it always made me feel less-than, because [my friends are] studying [medicine], and obviously their schooling is harder than mine. I just kept comparing myself to them. But then I thought about how much goes into being a creative. You just can’t compare."

Leaving doubt — and memories of those critical stares — in the past, Allyannah says she's proud to come from a culture that places togetherness at its center.

"We’re just so into family," she says ahead of Independence Day, which she'll spend "having a barbecue, blasting music, and just having fun with my loved ones." "That’s really important to have. Guyanese people are so family-oriented, and they’re always looking for a reason to meet up. Parties are always big and wholesome. I love that I’m from a culture that loves one another."

Family also factors largely into the future Allyannah imagines for herself, a version of the "American dream" that's actually pretty old-fashioned: just her, her boyfriend (hopefully turned husband, she says), a house, and financial stability — a modest vision she says reflects the "take it easy" attitude of her generation versus the accomplishment-driven, "plan, plan, plan" mentality of her parents'.

"Sometimes I’m like, I wish I could spontaneously move, but I would be so jealous that the rest of my family’s together. My American dream is continuing what I have now but more open, and just...more. I’ve noticed that when my family’s okay, and when I’m with [them], I’m the most content."

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Pack These 12 Essentials For The Beach (And Nothing Else)

These 4th Of July Fashion Sales Will Leave You Starry-Eyed

The Most Traffic-Stopping Street Style From Paris Couture Week 2019

We're getting up close and personal with all things beauty, in a visually satisfying — albeit slightly uncomfortable — way. Watch as needles pierce earlobes, ink swipes skin, and eyelashes adhere to eyelashes in these hypnotizingly detailed videos, all while the science behind the magic gets unveiled. Have you ever wondered whether or not waterproof mascara really works? Or been intrigued with tattooing your eyebrows? We'll show you this process like you have never seen it before!

The easier our mornings can get, the happier we are. That's why we try to lay out our outfits the night before and invest in a coffee machines with a timer. And this laissez-faire mentality also applies to our morning beauty routines — anything that allows us to take care of our hair, skin, and makeup in record time is welcome.

Lash perms definitely fall into this category. The low-maintenance technique gives your natural lashes volume that lasts for weeks — no mascara necessary. Not to be confused with a keratin lash lift, a lash perm curls the lashes using an alkaline solution and a silicone rod. As someone who saw makeup as a chore, Danni Eddy decided to get the treatment — even if it meant facing her fears of someone touching her eyes.

In our latest episode of Macro Beauty, we get an in-depth look into Eddy's appointment at Eye Do Lashes salon in Los Angeles. The video starts off with expert Dominique Jones doing a consultation to figure out the type of look Eddy is hoping to achieve. "Let's just do the drama," Eddy says. What follows is a 45-minute session that results in lengthy lashes that are often mistaken for falsies. "A lot of people keep asking me if I got my eyelashes extended, and I'm like, 'It's natural.'"

For a step-by-step (and super close-up) look at the treatment and the results, be sure to check out the video above.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Jennifer Morrison Went Brunette For This Is Us — & You Won't Recognize Her

Mushroom Blonde Is The Perfect In-Between Hair Color For Summer

Hilary Duff Is Getting Mommy-Shamed For Piercing Her Daughter's Ears

Tiffany Cabán declared victory in New York City’s primary election for Queens district attorney on Tuesday, edging out establishment candidate Queens Borough President Melinda Katz in an incredibly close race by just a few hundred votes, according to unofficial results from the city Board of Elections. With about 3,400 uncounted paper ballots left that can't be tallied until July 3, Katz isn't ready to give up, telling supporters, "We are doing a recount."

If Cabán officially wins the primary, it all but guarantees that she will be the next DA of Queens, the 11th-most populous county in the U.S. If elected, Cabán will be the first female, Latinx, openly queer, and youngest person to ever hold the position. And she says she is ready to overhaul the criminal justice system.

"They said I was too young, they said I didn’t look like a district attorney, they said we couldn’t build a movement from the grassroots, they said we could not win — but we did it, y’all," Cabán said to supporters late Tuesday night at her victory party at La Boom nightclub in Woodside, Queens.

Here's @CabanForQueens victory speech tonight. (thread) pic.twitter.com/4W6UBBYQHT

— People for Bernie (@People4Bernie) June 26, 2019

The 31-year-old former public defender ran her campaign on going “against the machine” — refusing to take corporate money and seeking to transform criminal justice from a punitive system to a restorative one. Originally seen as a dark horse in the race, Cabán reached a pivotal moment when she gained the endorsement of freshman congresswoman and fellow New Yorker Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. (Joe Crowley, the former congressman who lost to AOC last year, has been raising money for Katz.) Cabán has since also earned endorsements from senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, who are both running for president, the progressive former gubernatorial candidate Cynthia Nixon, and the most establishment publication of them all —  The New York Times.

In a crowded race of six Democratic candidates, Cabán’s progressive platform has pushed further left than the rest, including vowing to end the prosecution of low-level offenses like marijuana possession and fare evasion on the NYC subway, support for NYC’s No New Jails movement, and the push to decriminalize sex work.

“Our justice system has historically oppressed and marginalized certain groups,” Cabán said in an interview with Refinery29 in May. “We should be switching the metrics to saying that you’re doing your job [well] if you show that you are reducing recidivism, decarcerating our jails, and keeping people rooted in their communities with access to services and support, and applying it all fairly across racial and class lines.”

Although NYC residents in four boroughs (all but the Bronx) voted to fill several other roles, including several judges and a city council seat in Brooklyn, the Queens DA race attracted national attention after AOC weighed in. The seat opened up in May when Richard Brown, who was elected in 1991, passed away. Since there are no term limits, DAs in NYC can occupy their office for decades.

“As a working-class Latina myself, I never thought I’d be in a position to have the ability to run for office,” Cabán said. “And [AOC] is an example of saying that these are spaces that we can enter — and we can win."

.@AOC: “If you don’t know—now you know: Tiffany Cabàn is going to be our next Queens District Attorney.” pic.twitter.com/G4bcFnbpEg

— Tiffany Cabán (@CabanForQueens) June 2, 2019

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Sex Cult Leader Who Told Women They Would Gain Powers Through Killing Faces Death Penalty

Charges Dropped Against Marshae Jones In Shooting Death Of Her Unborn Baby

Mackenzie Lueck's Alleged Killer Had Been Accused Of Rape & Threats

Every summer, it's hard to miss the messages beamed from subway ads and sponsored Instagram posts suggesting we should each make like a car and magically swap in our body for something entirely different.

What does this so-called "beach body" entail, exactly? A new shape, for one. A smaller size, for another. Oh, and hair? Not unless it's growing out of your scalp — especially if you plan on wearing a bikini!

We call bullshit — and shaving brand Billie is the latest to join the fight in disrupting that narrative. Though it might seem counterintuitive for a razor brand to embrace all forms of pubic-hair grooming (even the nonexistent), Billie is choosing to show women of all body types proudly displaying their body hair in its new summer campaign, "Red, White, And You Do You."

"Every summer, the media pressures female-identifying individuals to achieve that 'beach body,'" Ashley Armitage, the director and photographer of this campaign, tells Refinery29. "Everywhere we look, we see ads telling us that the only way to look good in a swimsuit is to be thin, fit, and hairless. In this film, we wanted to normalize body hair and show that we have options."

The ad comes one year after the release of Billie's Project Body Hair, which was the first-ever women's razor campaign to show people actually shaving (as opposed to gliding a blade over already hairless skin). As obvious a choice as that sounds, it led to a real domino effect in the industry, with brands like Gillette Venus and the Walmart-exclusive Joy launching similar ads months later.

"I think when we brush topics to the side and don't address it, it’s a form of body shaming," Georgina Gooley, the co-founder of Billie, says. "You’re saying it’s so unacceptable that we’re not even going to talk about it, and that's how we treat pubic hair. That’s why it's important to have a strong message that says, 'No, no, we are talking about it and it is OK.'"

In the new ad and accompanying images, you'll see women laying out on the beach and taking a dip in the pool with tufts of their pubic hair visible in their high-cut swimsuits. To source the models for the shoot, Armitage and Gooley searched Instagram for women who were already open about their choice to grow out their pubic hair — including Lindsay Zae and Yaminah Mayo.

"They didn't expect a company that sells women's razors to approach them for content like this, but once we explained what we’re trying to do and the intent of it, we found that they were very excited," Gooley says. "With Ashley, we shot everything with a more female gaze, not in a way that made these women feel like it was strange to have their pubic hair visible in a setting like this, because it's not."

Visible body hair has been a hot topic as of late, largely in relation to non-male celebrities like Amandla Stenberg, Lourdes Leon, and Halsey, who each showed off theirs on social media, red carpets, and magazine covers, respectively. While some people reacted positively to the idea of these celebs making independent choices about their bodies, there were plenty of others who expressed shock and even anger at the sight of unshaved pits and legs on a person who isn't a man.

"Body hair on cisgender men is seen as attractive," Armitage says. "Body hair on cisgender women, transgender women, and non-binary individuals is seen as unattractive, unhygienic, and unacceptable. I want people to feel free to do what they want with their bodies this summer and every summer. Body hair is a personal choice. Shaving it, waxing it, or growing it are all valid, and all up to the individual."

With this campaign, Armitage and Gooley are aiming for a future in which seeing someone's pubic hair is no different than seeing someone's mustache. They're both personal grooming decisions, after all. "Women are just opting to keep their hair, similar to how a man might like to shave his beard or not" says Gooley. "As we see more of this imagery, and as society becomes more accepting that the choice shouldn't be imposed on women, hopefully we see all types of body hair and it’ll get to a point where, whether you see it or not, you won't be raising your eyebrows."

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Target Is Giving Away Gift Cards To Anyone Who Buys Sunscreen This Week

Everything You Need To Know About An Infected Nipple Piercing

You Can Shop Paula's Choice Products At Up To 50% Until Tomorrow

It can be pretty damn difficult to figure out which summer hairstyle is really best for you. Should you just be practical and chop it all off into a bob? Should you embrace the weather and let whatever texture you naturally have shine regardless of humidity or blazing 90 degree heat?

Hilary Duff can definitely relate to this sense of indecision. In late-May she was all about long, loose waves with bright blonde highlights and heavy, '70s-inspired side bangs. Two weeks later, she decided to go a little shorter with a trim and some honey highlights. And just last night on her Instagram Story, she showed off yet another haircut, chopping off a good 3+ inches and trimming up her bangs into a style that may look familiar to those of us who grew up watching the Disney channel.

In an interview with Duff just yesterday, she told Refinery29 that these bangs were inspired by her forever-iconic character Lizzie McGuire. "I kind of have been itching for my Lizzie McGuire bangs for awhile," she says.

She also told us that she likes to switch up her hair once she stops shooting her show Younger, just because she gets so bored. (Understandable.) "I'm on set and they're literally blowdrying my hair every day, curling it, and it kinda always looks the same," she says. "I'm always like, 'I want to cut it all off,' which I just did."

As Duff revealed on Instagram, the stylist behind this chop is Nikki Lee, who's been behind some of Duff's most notable chops, including those '70s bangs and that time she went "winter white " this past November.

But back to Lizzie. Even for Duff, Lizzie continues to offer hair inspiration to this day. "She had a wild time with her hair. There were no rules," she says. "There were blue hair scrunchies and all kinds of crazy shit. There are some things like topknot buns and crimping... I feel like that could be a thing again."

Did Hilary Duff just set the stage for Lizzie McGuire's hair trends to be a thing this summer? If so, we wouldn't be mad at it.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Jennifer Morrison Went Brunette For This Is Us — & You Won't Recognize Her

Hilary Duff Is Getting Mommy-Shamed For Piercing Her Daughter's Ears

Lucy Hale Has The Most Relatable Reason For Removing Her Tattoos

Bed Bath & Beyond supported all of our big home-away-from-home milestones, stocking the basics from shower caddies in shared dorm rooms to mattress protectors in first apartments. But for those of us who've outgrown bed risers and monogrammed laundry totes, the massive retailer still holds a plethora of forever-home essentials, too — with the most notable and surprising finds tucked inside its lineup of exclusive brands.

If you've yet to see or shop any of BB&B's private labels, then we've got the rundown on all six of the stylish lines for you ahead. Each distinctly-styled collection curates a category of home goods that range from furnishings to decor, tableware staples, kitchen tools, organization solutions, and more that are suited for outfitting sophisticated spaces. Scroll on to discover which one can help stock your new home-away-from-home chapter in elevated and affordable fashion — whether it's with a set of marbled stoneware plates, chic entertaining decor, top rated bedding, or premium stainless steel gadgets.

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.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

The Best Portable Air Conditioners To Buy Before Summer Heats Up

Forget Sleep, We're Catching Up On Home Sales This July 4th

Anthropologie Is Currently Hosting A Half-Off Home Sale

Foreplay often doesn't get enough credit — not to mention time or attention. In one study of heterosexual couples published in the Journal of Sexual Research, both women and men reported that their ideal duration of foreplay was 20 minutes. Most participants, however, reported spending an average of only about half that much time on foreplay. This neglected step in your sexual escapades can be the key to an even more explosive main course, though — whatever that may be. ("Main course" doesn't have to mean intercourse!)

To celebrate the build-up to whichever activity is the star attraction of your sexual encounters, we're sharing people's accounts of their favorite forms of foreplay. From oiled-up massages to dirty talk to PDA, these techniques set a sexy tone. They might even inspire you to up your own foreplay game. Light a massage candle and click through for the details; then, check back as we continue to update this story with fresh ideas.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

How To Reform A Bad Kisser

The Hottest Beach Sex Stories On Reddit (You’re Welcome)

Right Now Is A Great Time To Buy Sex Toys—Here Are The Best Sales

When the world first met Ariana Grande, she was playing Cat Valentine on Victorious. And while nine years ago, Grande was recognized for her breathy voice or fiery red hair on the Nickelodeon show, now she's known for her record-breaking music — and her massive tattoo collection.

Grande's tattoos didn't infiltrate mainstream conversation until she started dating — and quickly broke up with — Saturday Night Live comedian Pete Davidson in 2018. But to be accurate, the singer had been collecting tattoos long before she got that diamond engagement ring. In fact, her first ink came way back in 2012, long before she was the chart-topping force of nature that she is today.

Now, she's racked up at least 30 tattoos — but there are plenty more that are either too small or too faded for anyone to get a glimpse of (like the scribble on her left thigh or "hi" on her toe). Even if we don't ever track down all of Grande's collection, we've rounded up her best — at least, her most notable — ahead.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Tayla Parx On Glitter, Wigs, & What It Means To Be Feminine

Mindy Kaling Talks Body Hair, Shaving, & Her $4 Secret To Clear Skin

The Monterey Moms Went Full Disco On Big Little Lies Last Night

Unless your job involves high-risk activities like skydiving or professional stunts, then you have probably experienced the heart-racing feeling of scoring the best deal ever on your online shopping cart. Well, here at Refinery29, our shopping team (from the comfort of our very stationary desks, might we add) dutifully spend our days compiling the best sales across fashion, home, and more for your clicking pleasure. Welcome to The Score!

Whether you're a makeup maven or skincare savant, there's nothing quite like indulging in a luxe face mask while catching up on Netflix, or trying a brand new lipstick that instantly brightens your day, week, month, or even your year. That's the beauty of beauty — that little bit of magic that we treat ourselves to because we deserve it.

So, whether you're looking to peruse the best sale sections of the internet or want to be the first to shop those unicorn brands that never go on sale (*cough* Tatcha), feel free to click through these slides to find the best brands and retailers across hair, makeup, skincare, and more to shop. Rest assured that whenever we get wind of a can't-miss beauty sale, you'll see it here — and be sure to check back often, since we'll be updating it regularly with new steals to be had.

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.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Sophie Turner's Wedding Waves Are A Gorgeous & Easy Summer Look

The Best Nail Art For Every Beach Vacation

Jennifer Morrison Went Brunette For This Is Us — & You Won't Recognize Her

Back in 2016, Ariana Grande told us that her signature ponytail is something she’s worn since middle school. "The ponytail has always been a part of my life,” she explained. “But I do like to mix it up now and again." But if you’ve been following her career over the past eight years or so, you’d know that her M.O. on the look hasn’t really changed much at all.

Grande’s ponytail is a huge, very noticeable part of her public persona — and it just might be the smartest branding move we've seen from a hairstyle. So much so, it’s been mentioned in countless interviews and articles, her Twitter replies, and late-night sketches. Fans have even gone so far as to craft in-depth conspiracy theories surrounding the rare moments Grande decides to give her scalp a break and let her hair down.

We’ve resigned to the fact that we’ll probably never know exactly why everyone is so fascinated by her ponytail, but that doesn't mean we can't explore the topic. In fact, we put together photographic proof that Grande’s ponytail is the real, absolute love of her life (sorry, Piggy Smallz).

Ahead, we tracked every time Grande has mixed up her ponytail, offering us Instagram #hairporn in the process.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Tayla Parx On Glitter, Wigs, & What It Means To Be Feminine

Mindy Kaling Talks Body Hair, Shaving, & Her $4 Secret To Clear Skin

The Monterey Moms Went Full Disco On Big Little Lies Last Night