Quantcast
Channel: Refinery29
Viewing all 13911 articles
Browse latest View live

We Did The Work For You & Found 8 Instagram Brands To Shop Now

$
0
0

For fashion girls like us, finding a new brand on Instagram is equivalent to a hype beast getting into Supreme after waiting for hours in line. We're always searching and scrolling, going down every hole until we find an account that we can brag about knowing before anyone else. But no matter how much we might want to, spending all day, every day on an Instagram deep dive isn't realistic — and your boss would probably frown upon it.

So, to make finding the newest, most under-the-radar Instagram brands of the moment a little bit easier and a lot less time-consuming, we went ahead and did the work for you. After following every hashtag, geotag and, well, normal tag, we came up with a list of 8 clothing brands that are sure to be the next Saks Potts, Susan Alexandras and Donnis of the world. So before you spend the entirety of your weekend in a giant Instagram void that'll only distract you from the pile of laundry sitting in your hamper, take a look at what we found 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.

Tigre et Tigre

Searching for a stylish way to shop ethically? Boy, do we have the solution for you. Introducing Tigre et Tigre, the brainchild of Los Angeles residents, Adele Tetangco and Alnea Farrahbella. Stocked full of sheer, oversized dresses, biker short sets and even nail polish, this no-guilt brand has just about everything a girl who loves summer but hates everything else needs in her wardrobe.

KkCo

This community-focused brand has been the talk of the town of late amongst the indie fashion crowd. And after taking a look at their very aesthetically pleasing e-commerce site, carrying everything from tie-dye gym shorts to sheer gowns, we can't help but see why.

The Five Shop
Beloved by Copenhagen-based fashion writer and style icon, Stephanie Broek, The Five Shop is quickly becoming our go-to for everything from tailored suits to party attire. Our suggestion: don't wait to buy. This shop is notorious for selling out of every item you want right before you add it to your cart.

LHLL
Borne from followers begging to know where to find vintage band tees and perfectly faded crewnecks, Little High Little Low, or LHLL, is a Chicago-based e-tailer specializing in vintage tees and "vintage" hoodies, crewnecks and joggers (a.k.a. deadstock pieces that have gone through a top secret vintageifying process to make them soft, faded and perfectly worn in).

Après Studio
Launched in 2017, it didn't take long for this Australian label to wiggle its way into our hearts. Not only is it ethically made and empowering to women, it's also pretty damn cute.

Frisson Knits
With winter's onslaught on full blast, there's nothing we go to more in the morning than oversized sweaters. But finding one that's hefty but not frumpy, warm but not itchy and still stylish isn't an easy feat. Or rather, it wasn't, until we found this brand.

Delfi Collective
From feathers to sequins, statement blouses to cocktail dresses, Delfi Collective has your back when it comes to all your party needs. And, if you thought it couldn't get any better than the pieces ahead, they also do made-to-order sales in case you don't see your size.

Dauphinette
Founded by Olivia Cheng, this NYC-based brand is beyond cool. Cheng works magic with vintage coats and handbags, transforming someone else's trash into a work of art. From feather accents to hand-painted designs, you know you're getting something unique when you buy from Dauphinette.

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

R29 Editors Dish Out Their Most Comfortable Underwear Picks, In Honor Of National Underwear Day

Our Top Secret Hack For Shopping At H&M, Revealed

These Are The 21 Styles That Are Selling Most On ASOS


7 Ingrown Hair Treatments That Keep Bumps At Bay

$
0
0

If hair removal of any kind — shaving, waxing, lasering — is part of your summer skin-care routine, then you've probably also encountered dreaded ingrown hairs: tiny, sometimes painful bumps where hair has essentially gotten stuck underneath the skin's surface. "Ingrown hairs happen when the hair grows out sideways or inwards, rather than straight through the skin," says New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Doris Day, MD. "Skin then grows over the hair, making it ingrown."

Now, you might fall into one of two camps when it comes to the frustrating skin issue: Either you get them pretty rarely, or you see one popping up all. the. time. Unfortunately, the beauty myth that some people are more prone to ingrown hairs that others is true: According to Dr. Day, if you have curly or coarse texture, hairs can more easily become ingrown. ("This is common in the bikini area where the hair is usually coarser and curlier," she adds.)

As with anything, it's easier to prevent ingrowns from happening than to treat them once they've reared their head. Gentle exfoliation can help keep skin smooth and bump-free, and using a medicated cream or lightweight lotion post-hair removal can also keep follicles happy. (And if you were wondering, yes — your hair removal method of choice can affect your chance of getting ingrowns: "If you suffer from ingrown hairs commonly, I recommend sticking to shaving or depilatories rather than waxing or plucking," dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, explains. "When a hair has to grow fresh from beneath the surface of the skin, it is more likely to become trapped compared to a hair that is shaved at the level of the skin’s surface.")

That said, if you're ready to be done with them for good, Dr. Day recommends laser hair removal (if you're a good candidate), which eliminates the follicle altogether. As for what you can shop right now, we've rounded up our top picks for an ingrown-free summer, 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.

Malin + Goetz Ingrown Hair Cream

Keep a gentle cream like Malin + Goetz's on hand for regular use if you are especially prone to ingrowns — it's made with ingredients like chamomile and vitamins E and B5 that won't irritate your skin even if used multiple times a week.



Malin + Goetz Ingrown Hair Cream, $34, available at Need Supply

Bliss Bump Attendant Pads

The iconic spa brand knows a thing or two about hair removal, so you know their stuff is the real deal. A combo of salicylic and glycolic acids (plus soothing green tea) in these single-use vegan pads keeps skin smooth and bump-free.



Bliss Bump Attendant Pads, $22, available at Ulta Beauty

Jack Black Bump Fix Razor Bump & Ingrown Hair Solution

A major plus to using an ingrown hair treatment is that they can also keep body acne at bay. A medicated toner like Jack Black's can be used to prevent and address clogged pores and follicles, resulting in clearer, less irritated skin. (It's packed with ingredients like salicylic acid, plus organic chamomile, willowherb, and aloe and green tea extracts to calm inflammation.)



Jack Black Bump Fix Razor Bump & Ingrown Hair Solution, $27, available at DermStore

Fur Ingrown Concentrate

Finally, an ingrown treatment that you wouldn't mind keeping in your #shelfie. Fur's skin-smoothing concentrate harnesses the power of oils (coconut, grapeseed, jojoba, lavender, and clary sage, among others) to gently clear follicles and soften skin.



FUR Ingrown Concentrate, $28, available at Ulta Beauty

Anthony Ingrown Hair Treatment

This gel-cream formula is gentle enough for sensitive skin types — just read the reviews for proof — and is perfect for use on face and body.



Anthony Ingrown Hair Treatment, $32, available at Nordstrom

Sphynx Spot Me Ingrown + Blemish Treatment

Come for the cute packaging, stay for the potent formula. This spot treatment is powered by exfoliating glycolic and salicylic acids, plus botanical extracts like moringa seed oil and willow herb extract to soothe skin and prevent over-drying.



sphynx Spot Me Ingrown + Blemish Treatment, $12, available at Anthropologie

Dove Gentle Exfoliating Beauty Bar

An apple a day may keep the doctor away, and a similar approach works for ingrowns. "I recommend using exfoliating body cleansers to help remove any dead cells from the surface of the skin to help minimize the risk of hairs becoming ingrown," Dr. Zeichner says. "Dove's Exfoliating Beauty Bar offers gentle manual exfoliation without disrupting the outer skin layer."



Dove Gentle Exfoliating Beauty Bar, $6.47, available at Walmart

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

These 15 Hidden Gems Just Hit Amazon's Sale Section

5 Skin-Care Brands To Shop If You Want To Buy Black

The Black Girl's Guide To Lasers

Jeffrey Epstein Allegedly Preyed On Victoria’s Secret Models

$
0
0

As previously reported, billionaire investor Jeffrey Epstein was arrested earlier this month and charged with allegedly sex trafficking minors in New York and Florida between 2002 and 2005. As multiple outlets are revealing Epstein's high-powered friends and associates, there appears to be a link to Les Wexner, CEO of L Brands, the parent company of Victoria's Secret. Now, the New York Times is reporting Epstein used to pose as a recruiter for the lingerie brand's catalog.

Per the Times, by the mid '90s Esptein had "sweeping powers over [Wexner's] finances, philanthropy and private life," and used his proximity to Wexner to gain access to aspiring models. In 1996, model Maria Farmer alleges Epstein sexually assaulted her in Wexner's Ohio mansion. She claims she called the police but was not allowed to leave for 12 hours. Not even a year after the incident with Farmer, Epstein allegedly attacked another model, Alicia Arden, in his Santa Monica hotel room. She filed a police report a week later. “Why would someone that powerful and successful [Wexner] befriend someone like Jeffrey Epstein?” Arden asks the NYT. “I don’t get it.”

A spokesperson for L Brands told the Times in a statement: “While Mr. Epstein served as Mr. Wexner’s personal money manager for a period that ended nearly 12 years ago, we do not believe he was ever employed by nor served as an authorized representative of the company."

Epstein, 66, was arrested in New Jersey on July 6 for allegedly sexually abusing dozens of minors at his Upper East Side mansion, as well his mansion in Palm Beach, Florida, between 2002 and 2005.

More and more, it looks like a good thing Victoria's Secret won't air its fashion show on TV anymore.

If you have experienced sexual violence and are in need of crisis support, please call the RAINN Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).

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

Target Is Opening Up The Archives — & Celebrating 20 Years Of Designer Collaborations

Some Plus-Size Forever 21 Shoppers Received Diet Bars With Their Orders

The Real Story Behind H&M’s Racist Monkey Sweatshirt

Apps & Gadgets To Help You Survive Freshman Year, According To Actual College Students

$
0
0

If you're anything like I was as a student, you arrive on the first day of class with a fresh, monogrammed planner ready to be filled to the brim with assignments and exam dates (with a different color for each class, of course) and a resolve to stay organized for the entirety of the semester...which you abandon, without fail, by the third week in. (I mean, it's the thought that counts?) If this is your method, I see and hear you. But I'm here to tell you: It doesn't have to be this way.

Ahead, we chatted with 12 college students about the tech gadgets and apps that helped them survive freshman year, from note-taking apps to holy grail time-management apps to the tried-and-true iPad and Apple Pencil combo. Just remember, though — your dog can't eat your homework if it's synced up to the cloud. So you'll have to find a better excuse for that late paper.

Name: Brianne
Age: 22
College/University: University of Arkansas

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
MacBook! Always, always carry your computer with you.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
Chegg saves lives. Find someone to split the cost with, and it will save you so much stress and help you more than the professor will.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Put everything in your calendar on your phone. It's so easy to forget stuff or get overwhelmed, but if you schedule time to chill, it is so, so helpful. Google Calendar is one of the best, because you can color-code everything.

Name: Rachel
Age: 22
College/University: University of Vermont

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
iPhone, AirPods, Google Home Mini, Bose Soundlink Color.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
Quizlet, Blackboard, Google Calendar, Google Docs, Headspace.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Keep everything in the cloud. Whether you prefer iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive, or something else — make sure nothing important for school is saved solely on your computer. This helps because you can access your work from any computer if you happen to be on campus without your laptop, or if something awful happens to one of your devices. Also, back up your computer at least monthly onto an external hard drive. This ensures similar protection of photos and non-school documents.

Name: Giovanna
Age: 22
College/University: Drexel University

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
Beats Pill.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
myHomework.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
It's so important to find a planning app that works for you. Try out a couple simultaneously, and you’ll eventually find one that you like. It’s helpful because, let’s face it, we’re always on our phones. So even if you get lost in scrolling on Instagram, you’ll get a notification about that paper that’s due at midnight! College can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to completely forget about assignments or confuse due dates. During the first week of every semester, I go through all my syllabi and put every single assignment in my planning app. It’s time-consuming, but SO worth it.

Name: Leanne
Age: 29
College/University: University of Edinburgh

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
iPad and Apple Pencil.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
1) The Duet app, which allows you to use your iPad as a second display (great for when you have multiple documents open when writing essays, etc!). 2) The Notability app — I use it to take handwritten notes. You can write notes, take photos, and record audio and embed everything into one document. Very handy! 3) GoodNotes app — most of the books and papers I have to read are digital, so I use this app to read them and make handwritten notes in the margins and highlight important bits without having to constantly print things out.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Trello! I've used other project-management software, and Trello is my favorite by far. I use it for to-do lists, reading lists, planning vacations...pretty much everything!

Name: Kasia
Age: 20
College/University: University of Saskatchewan

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
Microsoft Surface Pro.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
OneNote.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Use OneNote to write all your notes digitally! It allows you to have everything you need at all times, without carrying multiple notebooks.

Name: Abby
Age: 21
College/University: Santa Clara University

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
iPad, Apple Watch, Bose speaker, and MacBook Air.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
Notability on my iPad.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Having an iPad has really changed how I stay organized in college. I keep all my lecture notes, homework, and class PowerPoints in folders on Notability. I'm able to upload and download class material easily through my iPad, and I have noticed I have more fun in class taking notes, since I can color-code and use different fonts.

Name: Erin
Age: 20
College/University: Azusa Pacific University

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
I keep my phone, my laptop charger, UrbanEars headphones, and a flash drive in my backpack.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
As a disabled individual with a limited ability to write by hand, I use word processors for notes. An upside to it is the ease of adding diagrams or pictures. I also use Quizlet to study information covered in class.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Save your information, notes, and work! You can use folders on a computer desktop, a backup device, a flash drive, or the cloud. (I recommend using more than one.) A device crashing the day before a big paper is due creates anxiety one does not need to go through.

Name: Audrey
Age: 21
College/University: Texas A&M University

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
JBL Clip, a tiny yet powerful speaker I take everywhere. You never know when you might need it. And good headphones, especially if you study on campus. The libraries aren’t always as quiet as you want them to be.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
Google Calendar, Pacifica (now Sanvello), and Focus Keeper(a free study timer — the Pomodoro method works really well for me).

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Find a system that works for you. While it’s great to get ideas from your peers, you are still an individual, and what works for others may or may not work for you. The same goes for studying.

Name: India
Age: 18
College/University: Sarah Lawrence College

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
My phone, laptop, hard drive, headphones (no Airpods because I'm broke), my Handycam (sneaking footage of my friends, for the memories).

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
Google Drive and iCal have really saved me this past year — especially with alerts on my phone. I usually remember when and where I have class, but if I have a rescheduled conference with a professor, there's no way I can remember it without putting it in iCal and setting an alert for five or 15 minutes ahead of the scheduled meeting.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Use literally any calendar app and set alerts. There's also a function in Google Calendar that allows you to set a date for when you should start assignments (along with when they're due!). Google Drive is perfect for documents (and is free). And turn on notifications for emails, too. It can get annoying if you're at a bigger university and get overwhelmed with emails, but you don't want to miss a message from your on-campus boss or information on internships and grants. Also, don't be afraid to email your professors about assignments and extensions — the sooner, the better.

Name: Missy
Age: 19
College/University: Syracuse University

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
Wireless headphones from Amazon.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
Rocketbook! It goes with a notebook that you can buy on Amazon for a decent price, and it is so great at keeping notes organized and in multiple places and formats (notebook, phone, computer), so you have access to them wherever you go. I also feel great knowing that I’m being eco-friendly by saving paper!

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Get a Rocketbook! Saved my life. It’s like a bullet journal and school notebook all in one, and it’s great for the environment. It’s good to know if I forget my notebook in my dorm, I can still access my notes from any electronic device. Also, to-do list apps will save your life and keep you focused and goal-oriented!

Name: Chelbie
Age: 21
College/University: Lynn University

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
Apple TV, Amazon Echo Dot, and Bose speaker.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
Trello.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
Make sure you're updating your calendar, using any useful apps you can find, and checking it daily. This will be an essential key to getting the grades you want, managing your social life, and not being so stressed! Set aside a time or day to just give yourself some mental headspace. We all need it once in a while...definitely in college!

Name: Aditi
Age: 23
College/University: University of New Orleans

What gadgets do you keep in your dorm room or backpack?
I have a Google Home Mini and a smart plug to go with it. And I have my laptop with me at all times, because I'm a comp sci grad student. I own a Samsung Galaxy Note 9, which is useful for taking info down really quickly. Also a Fitbit Alta HR to track my (un)healthy life.

What apps/online tools do you use to stay organized in school?
I use Evernote to take a LOT of my notes after classes. During class, I just like the whole pen-paper thing. I've been debating about switching to the Bear app, which is just as amazing. My Note 9 with the Evernote app has been a saving grace in many thesis meetings. To keep deadlines and events organized, I use an Android app called TimeTree. Super simple to use and beautiful to look at.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman about how to keep digitally organized in college?
A lot of people will type up their notes. But I guarantee that you will retain a lot more information if you use your pen to write stuff down. Type them up or rewrite your notes on an iPad for a better reading experience for your exams. Keep deadlines in mind and note everything down in ONE app. Reminders are your friend. Bullet journals are going to waste your time if you can't use them properly. In apps like Evernote that a lot of people use, make stacks of notebooks that correspond to that subject, each notebook being a chapter or concept. And always use tags.

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

We Got A First Look At Apple's New Credit Card

29Rooms Is Taking Over Instagram & Here Are Our Fave Posts

I Put The Google Pixel 3a's Travel-Friendly Features To The Test On A Trip To Mexico

Anderson Cooper Confronts Marianne Williamson For Calling Depression A "Scam"

$
0
0

On Thursday, CNN 's Anderson Cooper challenged Democratic presidential candidate and spiritual guru Marianne Williamson about calling clinical depression “a scam” in the past. She apologized for the “scam” statement, but defended herself when he asked questions about controversial statements she made about antidepressants.

Williamson — who's made a splash at the debates for laying out a plan for reparations and running on a platform of love — faced tough questions from Cooper on his show, Anderson Cooper 360°.

“You’ve often brought up very legitimate concerns about doctors overprescribing antidepressants and other drugs,” Cooper said. “I’ve never heard you express, though, real concern for the stigma surrounding depression. I know there’s some people who say you’re actually contributing to that stigma... You’ve used the words “numb” or “mask" [about antidepressants]."

Williamson was quick to defend herself, and said, "I think that would be a not good message and I think I've never given that message... That's just never the way I've spoken and it is a complete mischaracterization of my commentary."

Cooper pointed out that telling a seriously depressed person that antidepressants could make them numb would not be a good message, and noted that, if anything, it's the depression itself
that's numbing. When she pushed back, he brought receipts. He brought up a 2013 tweet, in which Williamson wrote: “Feds say 1 in 10 Americans on anti-depressants. Not a good sign. This is not a time in American history for any of us to be numbing our pain. [sic]”

Cooper also pressed her on her previous comment calling depression a "scam" on a podcast, for which she apologized, and added it was a "a glib comment" and "wrong to say." On the Friday morning after the show, Williamson tweeted: “I’m pro medicine. I’m pro science. I’ve never told anyone not to take medicine.”

Antidepressants are prescribed, and often combined with therapy, to manage depression, which is a common condition that impacts millions of people every year, according to the American Addiction Centers. The World Health Organization notes that antidepressants are one means of treating depression, among many other options, such as structured therapy and behavioral actions and changes. Harvard Health says that antidepressants work by regulating mood by targeting specific messaging systems in your brain. They are among the most prescribed medicines in America, but ultimately treatment for depression varies in effectiveness depending on the individual. “We can't predict exactly how someone will respond to treatment because we're all biologically different," Dr. Michael Craig Miller, assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, told Harvard Health. "Medicine is only one tool. Psychotherapy can help you examine the patterns in life that may be making you feel down. And don't forget about the benefits of exercise, a balanced diet, and engaging in meaningful activities. They fight depression."

If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or the Suicide Crisis Line at 1-800-784-2433.

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

This Advice Will Make Dating In College So Much Better

I Was A CBD Skeptic Until I Jumped Out Of A Plane

Scientists Are Coming Up With A Chlamydia Vaccine

"Don’t Give Me Condolences": Emerald Garner Demands Justice For Her Father

$
0
0

Update: Daniel Pantaleo was suspended from the New York Police Department on August 2.

This story was originally published at 5:30 p.m. on August 1, 2019.

Five years after Eric Garner, a 43-year-old Black man from New York City, said the words "I can't breathe" and died after being put in what police investigators deemed an illegal chokehold during an arrest in Staten Island, his youngest daughter, Emerald Snipes-Garner, hasn’t stopped fighting for justice.

During Wednesday night's presidential primary debate, protestors chanted "Fire Pantaleo" during the opening statements, referring to Daniel Pantaleo, the police officer who administered the deadly chokehold on Garner. He again became a topic of conversation when candidate Julián Castro criticized the U.S. Department of Justice for sparing the officer from federal civil rights charges, a decision that was announced on July 16, just one day before the fifth anniversary of Garner’s death. The decision on whether to fire Pantaleo could be made as early as Friday.

Snipes-Garner echoed the protestors' chants when the DOJ delivered the news. Distraught, the 26-year-old activist stormed out of the Manhattan federal courthouse and delivered an impromptu speech. "Fire Pantaleo now," she is heard yelling to onlookers and media in a video captured outside the courthouse that morning. "Nobody wants to hold nobody accountable. You want us to be calm, you want to send condolences? Fuck your condolences." As of now, Pantaleo is still employed by the New York Police Department and has even received pay increases. Snipes-Garner has taken matters into her own hands, launching a Change.org petition demanding that Pantaleo be fired.

Since Eric Garner's death, the Garner family was struck by tragedy again when Erica Garner, Emerald’s older sister, died at age 27 at the end of 2017 after a heart attack — and again last Friday, when Eric’s stepfather Ben Carr died of a heart attack at a family wedding. In addition to mourning her family members, Snipes-Garner has been dealing with the lengthy, bureaucratic legal processes the family has experienced in their pursuit for justice. (The DOJ's decision on Pantaleo came just one day before the statute of limitations ran out.)

We spoke with Snipes-Garner to get some insight into what comes next in her family’s fight for justice, what accountability looks like, and, most importantly, what the rest of us can do to support the movement for Black lives.

How did you feel in that moment when you found out the DOJ would not be filing federal charges against Daniel Pantaleo?

"The video [of my reaction] kind of went viral, and that’s definitely how I’m feeling, and I will continue to feel that way until [Pantaleo] is fired. I want to be able to let the people know that I’m very emotional, I’m very angry. It’s going to be a longer fight to even try to get the case opened again, trying to find out what the legal processes are for those proceedings, having public hearings, and stuff like that.

"I’m tired of just sitting back and waiting for things to get done. I waited five years for the DOJ to tell us what they could’ve told us five years ago. They could’ve told us the same day. We didn’t need five different people to look at the paperwork to say that they weren’t going to indict the officer."

What needs to be done at this point for justice to be served? Besides Pantaleo, who needs to be held accountable for what happened to your father?

Emerald Snipes-Garner outside of the courthouse following news that the Department of Justice won't charge Officer Daniel Pantaleo.Photo: Craig Ruttle/AP/Shutterstock.

"Accountability is everything. Everyone keeps passing the buck to someone else — like 'it’s not me, it’s the DOJ,' or 'it’s not me, it’s the grand jury,' or 'it’s not me, it’s the CCRB [NYC Civilian Complaint Review Board]' — but who is it really? Who do we talk to that has the power to do something? They’re saying it’s [NYPD Commissioner] James O’Neill, but O’Neill can’t make the decision until the judge makes the decision. So, is it the judge who I need to be asking for answers from? At this point, who’s really at fault? We went to the Obama administration, now the Trump administration, and nothing’s being done.

"This is one of those situations where everybody’s in the room, and something gets broken, and everybody’s like, 'it’s not me.' We’re playing Where’s Waldo? with the person who’s supposed to be accountable, when we know who murdered my father. We know who was there, we saw the video, we have their names. They were sitting on the stands at CCRB, there was witness testimony, there was an investigation, there’s text messages, there’s paperwork. I’m not understanding what type of investigation is being done."

It must have been especially hard to have such a personal case tied up in bureaucracy for so long, only to be disappointed by the result.

"For many people, this is just a phase. As [the news of] Eric Garner came in, it died out, and the cameras went away. When Erica passed away, it died out, and everything went away. Now the hype is up, and it’s going to go away again. I’m making sure that no one will forget. You will not forget. You will know what Pantaleo looks like. So when he walks the street, you know that you’re walking next to a murderer."

One of the things that Black Lives Matter activists want to see happen is to see real repercussions for police officers who kill civilians. Besides the firing of the officers involved, is there anything else that you’d like to see change structurally to halt the killing of unarmed Black civilians?

"Right now, we’ll absolutely push for the Eric Garner Law, which will ban the chokehold in any form. They’re using the terms 'seatbelt maneuver,' 'seatbelt technique,' 'arm-hold,' or anything but chokehold. Call it a chokehold. They’re using the gray areas. They’re using the little window of opportunity to say it wasn’t a chokehold, and it was absolutely a chokehold. [The law] will bring forth the banning of anything that restricts the neck and breathing of an unarmed civilian."

I’m making sure that no one will forget. You will not forget. You will know what Pantaleo looks like. So when he walks the street, you know that you’re walking next to a murderer.

How, if at all, can the city repair what has been broken or lost due to your father’s preventable death?

"I mean, they can stop killing us. That’s how we can stop the cycle. Police brutality is becoming a norm, and I feel like the ones who commit the heinous crimes show no remorse. It’s just like, 'Oh well, I did it, so what?' What’s going to happen when it’s your son, when it’s your daughter, when it’s your relative? What are you going to do then? You’re just going to ignore the fact that your son or your daughter could be walking down the street, and someone could come kill them, on camera, and no one is held accountable? People don’t put themselves in our shoes. That was my father. Nobody understands. Everybody is disconnected from the emotional part. It’s just like, 'Oh, I just want to talk about it,' but no, let’s not talk about it, let’s do something about it. Don’t just give me condolences, change things."

How would you like to see other people getting involved?

"Sign the petition on Change.org. Make a post on your social media — social media is a very powerful tool. Put 'I can’t breathe' on your profile picture, so everybody can see it. This needs to become more visible. This needs to become more present.

"People will be like, 'I feel like I can’t help,' but you can help. If you can’t make a protest, talk about the protest: 'Everybody go join the protest. I can’t be there, but I support you,' or 'I can’t come out physically, but I can put it on my social media.' Everything is just, 'I can’t, I can’t, I can’t.' I don’t want to hear 'I can’t,' I want to hear 'I’m going to.'"

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

Layleen Polanco's Mother Is Suing NYC Over Her Solitary Confinement Death At Rikers

Here's What You Need to Know About the Gun Laws In All 50 States

Jeffrey Epstein Dies While Awaiting Sex Trafficking Trial

These Are The 21 Styles That Are Selling Most On ASOS

$
0
0

When it comes to shopping, there are two routes you can take: investing in wardrobe staples or indulging in trends. Both have their obvious upsides, but only one can be done on a regular basis (well, for most of us, at least). And while we'd love to buy up all the trends of the moment, rarely can we keep up without spending way too much of our heard-earned cash. That's where ASOS comes in.

The UK-based e-tailer has just about everything that a girl could need: size inclusivity, up-to-date trends, and an affordable price point. But if we had to identify one ASOS-induced stressor, it'd be the sheer number of options. In the 'New In' section alone, there's a whopping 1,586 pieces to choose from — and that's just the women's department. So to help make sure that you're getting your fix of leopard print skirts, cowboy boots and puff-sleeve dresses, we're going straight to the source and sharing all the pieces that are selling most on the site.

Check out the 21 best-selling items on ASOS.com now in the mix 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.

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

Here's What Your Evil Eye Accessory Really Means

Our Editors Share The Best Jeans You Can Buy Without Trying On

45 Can't-Miss Amazon Fashion Deals To Shop This Week

13 Sulfate-Free Shampoos Top Hairstylists Love

$
0
0

According to shampoo commercials, the mark of a good cleanser is its lather. The more bubbles, the better — and boy, was the marketing effective. Up until recently, I would only cherish the shampoos that mimicked one of those ads, lathering up until I turned my hair into a big, frothy, soapy creation.

However, in 2019, we're fully aware of the fact that lather isn't necessarily a good thing. A ton of lather is normally an indication of a product having sulfates (including lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and ammonium laureth sulphate) — surfactants that can actually dry your hair and skin out.

Now, that's not to say that sulfates are bad. "Not everyone needs to use shampoos without them," celebrity stylist Derek Yuen tells us. "Sulfates work to dissolve oils and clean the strands. If you have very oily hair, then a regular shampoo is fine for you." But for chemically-processed hair (including those with keratin treatments, color, perms, and relaxers), sulfates can actually reverse the results of those treatments.

Whatever shampoo you choose is up to you, but if you're looking for a gentler option, we tapped a few of Hollywood's top pros to spill the beans on their faves, 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, but if you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Best For Fine Hair

Seed Phytonutrients Daily Hair Cleanser

This gentle shampoo won't weigh down fine hair types, and is packed with organic sunflower seed oil to keep strands feeling silky post-rinse. Bonus points for eco-friendly paper packaging.



SEED PHYTONUTRIENTS Daily Hair Cleanser, $24, available at Ulta Beauty

Best For Thick Hair

OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk Shampoo

This affordable drugstore buy is packed with nourishing ingredients like coconut milk and coconut oil to quench the thirst of anyone with thick, dryness-prone strands.



OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk Shampoo, $9.84, available at Walmart

Best For Color-Treated Hair

Love Beauty And Planet Murumuru Butter & Rose Blooming Color Shampoo

Organic coconut oil and rose petals not only make for a delightful sensorial experience in the shower, but both help offer a gentle cleanse while maintaining your color.



Love Beauty and Planet Murumuru Butter & Rose Blooming Color Shampoo, $6.94, available at Walmart

Best For Natural Hair

Form Beauty Gentle shampoo

Personalized haircare is on the rise, and this new system has lots of pros excited. You may not have heard of Form, a customizable hair system that launched last year, but we love it because it creates bespoke shampoo, conditioner, and styling products specific to your needs. Just take a short survey to find your personalized regimen, which comes with an explanation on how each product works. We especially love the brand's gentle, sulfate-free shampoo, recommended for those transitioning from relaxed to natural hair.



form beauty Cleanse. Shampoo, $22, available at Sephora

Best For Dry Hair

Aveda Dry Remedy Moisturizing Shampoo

"Aveda does a moisturizing shampoo that's kind to the hair and scalp," celeb hairstylist Sheridan Ward says. "The products don't just smell great... they work, and the packaging is gorgeous."



Aveda dry remedy Moisturizing Shampoo, $32, available at Nordstrom

Best For Overworked Natural Hair

Carol's Daughter Rhassoul Clay Sulfate-Free Shampoo

One too many wash and gos? Once a week, cleanse with this clay- and aloe juice-spiked shampoo for a deep clean that's also gentle.



Carol's Daughter Rhassoul Clay Sulfate-free Shampoo, $10, available at Target.com

Best For Blondes

R+Co Sunset Blvd Blonde Shampoo

"This brightens the hair, eliminates brassiness, and kicks up grays to silver," John Ruggiero, who works with Chrissy Teigen and Ashley Bell, says.



R+Co Sunset Blvd Blonde Shampoo, $29, available at DermStore

Best For Heat Damage

Living Proof Restore Shampo o

Living Proof's Restore Shampoo is made with a proprietary hydrating ingredient that helps repair damaged hair cuticles and boost moisture levels to protect against breakage.



Living Proof Restore Shampoo, $29, available at Ulta Beauty

Best For Damaged Hair

Shu Uemura Color Lustre Sulfate-Free Brilliant Glaze Shampoo

"It's gentle, but still feels rich and moisturizing enough for parched strands," Yuen says.



Shu Uemura Art Of Hair Color Lustre Sulfate-Free Brilliant Glaze Shampoo, $48, available at Violet Grey

Best For Frizzy Flyaways

Ouai Smooth Shampoo

"Sulfates not only allow shampoos to form a thick lather, but they can be drying, too," Caile Noble, who works with Sofia Carson, says. And with dryness comes breakage — and no texture wants that. This shampoo will help hair lay smooth once dry — and won't dry out your 'do.



Ouai Smooth Shampoo, $28, available at Sephora

Best For Dull Hair

Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Wild Ginger Moisturizing Lather Shampoo

"It has a moisturizing lather and feels luxurious," Ward says of this shine-inducing formula. "Plus, it hydrates the hair while it cleans and a little goes a long way."



Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Wild Ginger Moisturizing Lather Shampoo, $22, available at Ulta Beauty

Best For A Budget Buy

Aveeno Active Naturals Pure Renewal Shampoo

"This is infused with naturally-derived cleansing extracts including seaweed," Ward says. "It works best at balancing the hair's moisture levels."



Aveeno Pure Renewal Shampoo with Seaweed Extract, $5.97, available at Walmart

Best For Coarse Curls

Bumble and bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Shampoo

Ruggiero says that this formula automatically transforms the most brittle hair, leaving it soft, silky, and smooth.



Bumble and bumble Bb.Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Shampoo, $31, available at Ulta Beauty

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

5 Hair Color Trends That Are Going To Be Huge This Fall

8 Styles That Will Convince You To Get Micro-Bangs This Summer

Read This Before Investing In CBD Hair Products


Our Top Secret Hack For Shopping At H&M, Revealed

$
0
0

Between their designer collaborations, studio collections and conscious exclusive drops, navigating HM.com is anything but easy. Fortunately for us, the beloved fast fashion brand has created a solution: the Trends page.

Hidden in the 'Shop by Concept' area of the website's main menu, this under-the-radar shopping tool is designed to take the stress out of sorting through all 9,331 options on the brand's site. The trend section includes only the most of-the-moment styles, from Jacquemus-inspired mini dresses to KKW-approved bike shorts.

To get you started, we handpicked 36 of our favorite items from the trend section and loaded them up in the slideshow 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.

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

Here's What Your Evil Eye Accessory Really Means

Our Editors Share The Best Jeans You Can Buy Without Trying On

45 Can't-Miss Amazon Fashion Deals To Shop This Week

I Put The Google Pixel 3a's Travel-Friendly Features To The Test On A Trip To Mexico

$
0
0

A few weeks ago, I went to Oaxaca, Mexico, for three days with nothing but my Google Pixel 3a (okay, also a suitcase full of far too many clothes) — and discovered that, in addition to its ability to trick me into thinking that I'm a good photographer (I'm not), it's the ultimate travel phone. In addition to its camera, it has a great translator integration and AR map function, it's super lightweight, and comes with a really cheap phone plan. I've reviewed the phone before, but this trip really put its breakout features to the test.

And as far as pricing for the phone itself, the Pixel 3a (5.6") starts at $399, and its larger counterpart, the Pixel 3a XL (6"), starts at $479 — basically half the price of an iPhone, except you don't even have to give up any quality smartphone features (except those blue iMessage bubbles).

Ahead, the breakdown of how I used the Pixel to optimize my selfie game, take actually delicious-looking food pics for the 'gram, and translate restaurant menus in Mexico.

Travel and accommodations were provided to the author by Google for the purpose of writing this story. Google did not approve or review this story.

The Phone Plan

Google Fi, the phone carrier I used with the Pixel, lets you roam internationally at no extra cost. (It's $20/month for unlimited calls and texting, and for data, $10/GB up to 6GB, after which data is free.) This is ideal for international travel and especially appealing compared to other carriers like AT&T or Verizon, where you need to buy an international roaming day pass for $10 per device. While in Oaxaca, where there wasn't Wifi, I got service nearly everywhere I went.

Say Cheese

The Google Pixel camera is just as solid as that of its slightly higher-end sibling, the Pixel 3. While the 3a and 3a XL don't have dual front-facing cameras, so you can't take the wide selfie that you can with a Pixel 3, you can basically do everything else. I was impressed by how the 3a made the rich colors of Oaxaca pop in nearly every photo I took. There's also a feature called Top Shot that you can use if you enable motion on your photos, which is kind of like Apple's Live Photos, only it lets you choose which shot within the captured motion you'd like to use as the photo still.

Night Sight

This feature is great for when you want to take a flash-less food pic in a dark restaurant, like this chicken and mole dish with my passionfruit margarita from Los Danzantes. Night Sight makes low-light photos actually look good — and the camera even prompts you to use Night Sight in dark environments so you don't forget. I also used it on fireworks we caught a glimpse of on the rooftop of Casa Oaxac a, but I didn't post the photo here because fireworks photos are all the same (@ everyone I follow on IG who insists on posting a photo of the firework show they're watching on the Fourth of July, despite the fact that it looks no different from any other fireworks ever).

Photo Booth

This feature allows you to snap a selfie whenever the subjects of your selfie are smiling... without pressing any buttons. So you can, you know, capture the Monte Albán Ruins while also looking cute. Very convenient for group travel shots.

Long Live Battery Life

In terms of battery life, charging the phone for just 15 minutes gives you a seven-hour charge, and a full charge give you up to 30 hours of usage. My phone never died on the trip, and as a person with a chronically dead phone, this is a big deal. Also, the Pixel uses machine learning to optimize your battery life by prioritizing the apps you use most, which helps it stay alive longer.

Identifying Marketplace Fruits 101

I previously used this feature at Coachella to identify all the chunky sneakers I saw in the Sahara tent, of which there were oh-so-many. But the Lens also serves the very practical purpose of identifying any plant, food, animal, or monument you point your camera at. I used it on my occasions over the course of my trip, including when I came upon these fruits in the Mercado Benito Juárez, which I thought were lychees, but were actually rambutan! The more you know.

You can also use it identify monuments and pull up a quick history lesson via Google, like I did with the Templo de Santo Domingo.

Hey Google, What Does That Mean?

Part of the magic of Google Lens is its translate feature, which lets you point at text and then overlays it with a translation in your desired language (and there are over 100 supported by Google Translate). This also really came in handy for restaurant menus when I was too embarrassed to ask the waiter to translate.

I also enabled the Active Edge on my Pixel, which means when you squeeze on the bottom half of the phone, you'll prompt Google Assistant. On many different occasions, I asked it for the conversion rate of U.S. dollars to pesos, and then was on my merry way to buy a beautifully adorned bowl that I don't need.

When You Inevitably Get Lost

AR Mode in Google Maps, which is currently only available on the Pixel (not on other devices that use Google Maps), is great for when you're navigating a place you've never been. It integrates the camera with Google Maps and only works for walking navigation, but basically makes it feel like...you're walking on a map, with virtual directions overlaid on the camera display in front of you.

Handy if you're one of those people who spends approximately five minutes every time you emerge from the subway to reorient yourself and decide which direction to begin walking in.

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

All The Tech Gadgets You Need For Your Summer Vacay

Looking For A New Laptop? Here Are The Best Back-To-School Deals

These Are The Cutest Laptop Cases On The Internet

7 Protective Styles That Will Make Your Fall Semester SO Much Easier

$
0
0

Here's a textbook fact: college is expensive. Even for students on scholarships, you've got the cost of books, housing, and your homecoming outfit to take care of. So ideally, hair should be the last of your worries.

However, naturalistas know that upkeep requires time and coins, too. Between getting acquainted with new dorm mates and settling into your fall syllabus, who has time to sit in front of a mirror and flat-twist every night? In order to alleviate some of that stress, try a protective style ahead of Labor Day? No one wants to fuss around with a curling wand or treatment before their ungodly 8 a.m. course... and besides, you've got an impression to make around campus. The looks ahead will take care of that for you.

Straightback Cornrows

Not only are these easy to do and chic to look at, but they also serve as a foolproof way to get your wigs to sit right.

Box Braids

You can never go wrong with a fresh set of plaits, at any length. They cost a couple hundred bucks and take a few hours to do, but the styling possibilities are truly endless.

Photo: Via @lacyredway.

Twists

Elaine Welteroth's Senegalese twists are just as stylish and functional as braids, but are easier to redo when they come unraveled. Just grab your gel, a few mini rubberbands, and get to work.

Photo: Via @elainewelteroth.

Weave

With proper care and attention, a good sew-in can last for a couple of months. Try picking out extensions that match your natural hair texture for a more seamless blend (and to avoid using excessive heat on your leave-out).

Half-Up Half-Down

If loose bundles are more your speed, but maintaining a leave-out isn't, try a half-up ponytail. Opt for wavy extensions that you can braid before bed and unravel before class.

Wigs

Wigs are — by far — one of our favorite protective styles because they require a lot less commitment. You can get a custom unit tailored to your style, and take it on and off as you please.

Faux Locs

Faux locs are a great option if you're looking to switch up your usual braids. They'll look cute and au naturale when worn down, but are also versatile enough for a half-up bun and stylish barrettes.

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

5 Hair Color Trends That Are Going To Be Huge This Fall

8 Styles That Will Convince You To Get Micro-Bangs This Summer

Read This Before Investing In CBD Hair Products

Where The 2020 Candidates Stand On Equal Pay

$
0
0

Here's something you may have heard us say a million times before, but that doesn't stop being true: The gender wage gap is real and it impacts women's ability to prosper. Research has shown over and over again that women in the U.S. earn on average about 80 cents for every dollar a man makes, and the gap is even worse for most women of color.

Ending the disparity would result in significant economic benefits. According to data from the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, closing the gap would "cut poverty among working women and their families by more than half and add $513 billion to the national economy." Let's say that again: add $513 billion to the national economy.

Many of the Democratic candidates running for president in the 2020 election have prioritized issues impacting the gender wage gap, from paid family leave and universal child care to raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour.

Ahead, we detail where 10 of the 2020 presidential candidates stand on the issue of equal pay for all genders.

Sen. Kamala Harris

The California senator introduced a proposal in May requiring corporations to certify that women and men receive equal pay for equal work or face financial penalties as a way to help close the gender wage gap. The plan differs from other federal anti-discrimination measures by requiring employers to proactively enforce pay equity instead of placing the burden on employees to try to prove gender-based pay discrimination.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren

The Massachusetts Democrat has released several proposals that could help close the gender wage gap. Her plan for universal child care would allow more mothers to stay in the workforce. Warren also proposed three executive actions she would take on her first day as president to expand economic opportunities for women of color, who often face more roadblocks to pay equity. She has also led by example by paying her staff equally.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar

The Minnesota senator has not proposed an explicit equal pay plan as part of her presidential platform. However, she has advocated for this issue, most recently by introducing the Even Playing Field Act. The measure — which was co-sponsored by several prominent Democratic senators, including fellow presidential candidate Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand — requires athletes on the U.S. national teams receive equal pay and resources.

Sen. Kamala HarrisPhoto: Mason Trinca/Getty Images.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard

Gabbard, a U.S. representative from Hawaii, has not introduced a proposal aimed at closing the gender wage gap, but notes on her website that she has voted for the Paycheck Fairness Act, "to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide more effective remedies to victims of discrimination in the payment of wages on the basis of sex, and for other purposes."

Marianne Williamson

Williamson has not introduced an equal pay proposal, but her women's rights platform includes plans such as "increase rules, regulations, and oversight to prevent pregnancy-related discrimination," "require more post-birth leave time for mothers — and fathers," and "provide more funding for Head Start and high-quality child-care programs."

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand

Gillibrand's Family Bill of Rights, an ambitious family-oriented proposal, includes two measures that could help women prosper economically, particularly those who are parents. The New York Democrat is calling for the implementation of paid family leave nationwide, similar to her FAMILY Act, and the creation of universal pre-K, which would allow mothers to stay in the workforce when their children are younger.

Sen. Kirsten GillibrandPhoto: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg/Getty Images.

Former Vice President Joe Biden

While Biden has not unveiled a gender equity proposal so far, in the past he's shown support for measures such as the Lilly Ledbetter equal pay legislation.

Sen. Bernie Sanders

The Vermont senator has not rolled out an equal pay plan, but his women's rights platform includes actions such as adopting equal pay for equal work through the Paycheck Fairness Act and passing the Equal Rights Amendment.

Mayor Pete Buttigieg

On his website, the South Bend, IN, mayor has called for signing the Paycheck Fairness Act into law, and strengthening anti-discrimination laws, including protections against pregnant workers.

Beto O'Rourke

Some of the solutions the former Texas congressman has proposed as part of his equal pay platform include passing the Paycheck Fairness Act, "strengthening legal remedies for equal pay violations," and "limiting use of wage history in the hiring process."

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

Layleen Polanco's Mother Is Suing NYC Over Her Solitary Confinement Death At Rikers

Here's What You Need to Know About the Gun Laws In All 50 States

Jeffrey Epstein Dies While Awaiting Sex Trafficking Trial

31 Instagram-Worthy Hairstyles To Try In August

$
0
0

Remember way back in January, when your optimism was at an all-time high? You were actually excited about going to the gym. You were downloading meditation apps and making a list of all the books you wanted to read. And when you were scrolling through Instagram and saw a hairstyle you loved, the reaction was, "I can totally do this."

Yeah, that seems like a very distant memory.

We blame alarm clocks — oh, and all the weather changes, which have now led us to look for hairstyles that will survive summer activities or just keep us cool in scorching hot weather. It's also easy to fall back into last year's hairstyle rut once you've run out of ideas. But we're here to keep you encouraged. Because while you thought that you used up all your creativity in the first few months of the year, we're here to prove that you're just getting started.

We've been putting the Instagram "save" feature to use to compile a month's worth of hair inspiration. From haircuts to braided looks, there's something for everyone to try. Ahead, 31 gorgeous looks to keep the good hair days coming in August.

If you've been itching for a pixie cut, let this serve as all the chic inspiration you need to go for the chop.

We're heart-eyeing all the volume here.

Instead of dreading the day September rolls around, get ahead of the game by going for a warmer, fall-ready brown that will have you forgetting all about life pre-Labor Day.

One head wrap can make all the difference. How you style it is up to you, but we're definitely pinning this dreamy look on Zazie Beetz.

Take sleek to a whole new level by making sure it's the vibe from root to end, like this smooth half-up style.

Messy can be #goals — especially if you're short on time. It's just about finding cute ways to make it different, whether it's leaving strands out to frame the face or getting playful with bobby pins.

We don't know what we love more: the soft texture or the delicate gold hair pin.

Yes, curly hair types can — and should — rock bangs.

The cutest hairstyles can sometimes require the least effort. All you need is the right scrunchie.

You can jazz up a simple ponytail by curling a few front strands and letting them frame your face for an effortless look.

We'd be lying if we said that Margot Robbie didn't have us glued to our feeds trying to catch all her looks during the Once Upon A Time...In Hollywood press tour, which included this gorgeous hairstyle.

Festival season shouldn't be the only time you get creative with braids. Go for a mixed-braid updo like this one that works for a special event or everyday wear.

Hot-girl summer isn't over just yet. The best protective style inspiration is forever.

While this updo might look a tad complicated to recreate on your own, just let it serve as a visual reminder to have fun with your next topknot.

You can go for something a bit easier like this braid that goes into up into a mini high ponytail.

For those days when it's just too damn hot, pull up your natural hair into two Afro puffs that will make for an adorable style like this.

Let Leighton Meester serve as inspo to go from blonde to brunette — a darker shade that brings us right back to the Blair Waldorf days.

If you're not ready for bold bangs just yet, experiment with curtain bangs that frame the face and don't take up too much real estate. Bonus: If you don't fall in love with the look, they'll be all grown out by winter.

Itching for a major transformation this summer but aren't bold enough to get rainbow bangs á la Halsey? Look into a soft color like pink that still makes enough of a statement.

If you're looking for protective style ideas for your next vacation or summer outing, go for beaded micro braids that will pop in every photo.

It sounds crazy, but try tying your own hair into a loose knot for a gorgeous look like this.

Want your hair away from your face? Push it all back with a head scarf that also adds a touch of personal style.

Sometimes all you need is some hair gloss to turn your strands healthier and shinier than ever.

Give your faux locs some height with a fabulous half-up bun that just begs for selfies.

Can you ever go wrong with a big hat that also doubles as sun protection?

There's only one way to best describe this look — and the hairstylist behind it, Andrew Fitzsimons, said it best: "My take on the 90’s take on 60’s Hair."

Hairpins have been just about everywhere, and there's really no limit on finding new ways to style them.

This low, twisted ponytail is as effortless as it looks.

Don't mind us as we try to figure out how it's physically possible to recreate this eye-catching bun. Teach us your ways, Sunnie Brook.

There's lots of room for creativity when it comes to our hair. This look makes the case with a play on curls, braids, and accent hair jewelry.

There's just something about a super-sleek bun that serves up an extra level of confidence.

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

5 Hair Color Trends That Are Going To Be Huge This Fall

8 Styles That Will Convince You To Get Micro-Bangs This Summer

Read This Before Investing In CBD Hair Products

She's With Them: Inside The World Of Hillary Clinton Superfans

$
0
0

After Hillary Clinton unexpectedly lost the Electoral College despite winning the popular vote in 2016, coming closer to the presidency than any woman had before, something changed in the psyche of scores of her supporters. While some had been afraid to even post on social media or put a Hillary bumper sticker on their car for fear of being shouted down by trolls from the right and left, Clinton's admirers — particularly women — came out of the woodwork (while Hillary went into the woods) to tell the world that their icon had been wronged. That's exactly when many of the former Secretary of State, senator, and first lady's supporters turned into a different phenomenon entirely: superfans.

Superfans don't just post and retweet and wear T-shirts and send small donations. They create entire social media accounts dedicated to following Clinton's every move, outfit, and honorary degree. They camp out overnight outside of the Union Square Barnes & Noble to get first dibs at What Happened, Clinton's memoir, while the Secretary's staff surprises them with a late-night pizza delivery. They fly from the Philippines to Australia to see her. They create paintings, plays, and, of course, memes. If the "women's rights are human rights," baby-pink suit moment in China began to turn Hillary Rodham Clinton into an icon, then the anger, devastation, and defiant hope of the post-2016 era cemented that status.

In the aftermath of November 2016, "there was an explosion of letters — we had to shut down the website," Rob Russo, one of Clinton's closest aides and her office's king of correspondence, tells Refinery29 in a recent interview. "We had to rent a U-Haul to go to the post office to pick up our mail! There were over 30 bins, and we’re still not done with it. We have been diligently going letter by letter and responding to people." Clinton developed an elaborate system of correspondence with fans and critics alike back when she lived in the White House to make sure everyone's letters are answered, members of her staff say. It's how the OG superfans, like the late Maryland resident Ruth Love who created the first Hillary Clinton fan club back in the 1990s, communicated with the first lady before the digital age took off.

And if that 1990s holdover seems quaint, so be it: After all, it's a much more personal form of correspondence — and one that typically yields fewer angry trolls than, dare we say it, emails or social media. "She understands that there’s something very special about tangibly reaching out to people by sending a letter," Russo continues. "A letter is something people will carry with them for a lifetime. It’s something people can hold; it can become an artifact."

A letter is how Corinne Pina, 48, from Queens, NY, a survivor of the 9/11 attacks, first reached out to Clinton, a New York senator at the time. After surviving the World Trade Center attacks, Pina developed PTSD and was unable to fulfill the requirements for her student visa. After she was threatened with deportation, she contacted Clinton's Senate office in panic, and Clinton stepped in to help her reinstate her visa and even refer her to counseling services.

"I was so thrilled that someone cared about me who only saw me on paper," Pina tells Refinery29. "I suffer from ADHD and a slow information-processing disorder that makes it very difficult for me to find employment despite having a BBA in Accounting. When I talked with Hillary during the campaign, she promised me that she would implement plans and programs that would get us back into meaningful jobs." Now, Pina says she often feels like hope is lost. Like so many women, she felt Hillary's loss as though it were her own. Still, she continues to go to events and post articles and memes — the name on her Twitter bio is HRCisTrue45. She also wears her Hillary Clinton shirt, tote bag, and iPhone case everywhere. She's met Clinton several times, and every time she says talking to her feels like talking to a friend. "She listens, and she takes you seriously."

"Hillary has inspired me not to give up and to keep going no matter how hard it is," Pina says. "Her resilience gives me new hope and strength every day."

Corinne Pina and Hillary Clinton in 2016.Photo: Courtesy of Corinne Pina.

It's stories like this, in which she connects with and helps her supporters in tangible ways, that make it clear Clinton's fandom goes beyond the flattened, superficial "powerful woman" veneer. Those close to her suggest that she's not super-comfortable being viewed as an "icon."

"She sees herself as more human than symbol, although she obviously recognizes that she will have a place in history," Nick Merrill, Clinton's longtime senior adviser and spokesperson, tells Refinery29. "The symbolism is secondary."

Still, the iconizing of Hillary Clinton continues, driven in part by the desire to make sure she gets her rightful place in history and that her complex, pioneering legacy isn't drowned out by the visceral hate she has so often been the target of. The superfans play an active role in perpetuating that legacy. Rebecca Brubaker, for example, a 22-year-old who "super-volunteered " for the 2016 campaign, got to know Clinton campaign staffers through social media and showing up at book signings. She created the documentary To All the Little Girls (which you can watch, below) to tell the stories of the women who have been inspired by Clinton.

"I found myself complaining that the media wasn't covering how impactful Secretary Clinton’s campaign was for multiple generations of women and girls, so I decided to take it upon myself to make it," Brubaker tells Refinery29. "I traveled the country and heard so many stories similar to mine. The same people who were impacted by Secretary Clinton’s run in 2016 are now organizing their communities and even running for office themselves. Her legacy lives on, and I feel so incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to highlight it in my documentary."

Kristen Blush — one of the recipients of the aforementioned late-night pizza while camped out for What Happened — is a photographer and fixture at HRC's events who authored The Revolution Is Female, a photography book celebrating Clinton's historic candidacy and the feminist movement that ensued. Blush, 38, created a group called Babes for Hillary during the campaign that held fundraisers and social events in New York City. Photos of many of the members ended up in her book. "I realized that we really needed a popular culture movement to help elect her," Blush says.

Social media plays a major part in keeping Clinton in the cultural consciousness and celebrating her accomplishments. The meme-ing of Hillary started back in 2012 when she was Secretary of State with the Texts from Hillary (Who could forget Texts from Hillary?) tumblr, which originated as a joke between two friends at a bar. (She even invited the creators to her office in the State Department and took photos with them.) But post-2016, the digital aspect of her fandom evolved into homages to her career, nostalgic photos of her youth, and lots of GIFs (think shimmying shoulder shake), which fan accounts like @HillaryPix, which currently has close to 14,000 followers, supply daily. You'll see everything from Clinton riding a unicorn in rainbow sunglasses during Pride Month to a young Hillary in a black-and-white high school class photo. Not an insignificant number of the posts are encouragements to run for a second term, although Clinton has said she doesn't plan to run for office again.

"She reawakened my feminism, and she made me political in a way I never was before 2016," the woman who runs @HillaryPix, who prefers to stay anonymous to avoid more online harassment, tells Refinery29, echoing the words of many women who wrote to Clinton after the election. "I joined Twitter in early 2016 because I couldn’t believe the sexism and misogyny she was facing in her presidential campaign. Twitter was a way to defend her, and I thought I might get 20 or 30 followers if I was lucky. As it turned out, I wasn’t alone."

As she veers further away from public figure-dom and deeper into private citizenry, Clinton's relationships with her fans, "super" or otherwise, seem to be deepening. "There are days when the amount of time she spends on social media, she wouldn’t like to admit!" Merrill says, laughing. "She’s no longer doing six to seven events a day, after all. But she’s hearing from people personally whom she might not otherwise get a chance to interact with."

This also means she has more time to stay in touch with her core group of superfans outside of social media, whether personally or through her staff. "The Secretary has always made a point to follow up," Opal Vadhan, Clinton's executive assistant, tells Refinery29. "‘How is Corinne doing?’ ‘How is Kristen’s book doing?’ ‘What is Becca up to?’ As a team, we do talk to them on a daily basis because our boss cares so much and genuinely wants to know what they’re up to."

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

Layleen Polanco's Mother Is Suing NYC Over Her Solitary Confinement Death At Rikers

Here's What You Need to Know About the Gun Laws In All 50 States

Jeffrey Epstein Dies While Awaiting Sex Trafficking Trial

New Music To Know This Week: Haim Have A Hot Girl Summer, Angel Olsen Goths Out & More

$
0
0

Ever since my first job at MTV working as a music programmer, I can't stop trying to match people with music they might like. So, I wrote a book calledRecord Collecting for Girls and started interviewing musicians. The Music Concierge is a column where I share music I'm listening to that you might enjoy, with a little context. Get everything I've recommended this year on Spotify, follow me on Twitter or Facebook, and leave a comment below telling me what you're listening to this week.

HAIM "Summer Girl"

The Haim sisters return with their summer take on Lou Reed's "Walk on the Wild Side" with more than a passing nod to Luscious Jackson's entire Naked Eye album aesthetic (if you're not familiar with those but liked this song, I'll wait while you go check them out). It's a summer-in-the-city take on Hot Girl Summer just in time for August to blast us all into heat oblivion. Honestly, I love when artists drop a slower jam in the depths of the summer heat because they know it's too hot out to shake it fast. Put this one on and take everything else off, it's too hot to exist (this sentence brought to you by living in Texas).

Angel Oslen "All Mirrors"

Angel Olsen is taking us all back to the strangest moments from The Hunger but with "Bella Legosi's Dead" vibes in black and white with her new song. The instrumentation is classic goth anthem, causing visions of The Sisters of Mercy to dance in my head while the screeching synths remind me of those creepy string parts in every Alfred Hitchcock movie. She's not on a different page from the rest of the streaming charts, she's in a whole different book.

Sabrina Claudio "Holding the Gun"

Sabrina Claudio starts this video with a Nietzche quote (!!!) and then slips into Bonnie and Clyde if they had Thelma and Louise's red convertible (watch it on YouTube), all on a song that is one of the softest, warmest grooves about a dysfunctional relationship I've heard since Sade fucked up my whole romantic life. The flip side of pretty is dark, and this is pretty dark as well as pretty phenomenal.

Snoh Aalegra "Situationship"

Listening to this song is like sliding down a waterfall except instead of water, it's the feeling of having a crush that's slowly crashing to the ground. Snoh Aalegra makes singing about realizing that you've been messing with a fuckboy into a bop with an incredibly catchy chorus full of red flags.

Violet Bell "Howl"

I swear this song would fit right into the Midsommar soundtrack . There's a thin line between traditional, indigenous folk songs and true bluegrass and Americana. It could soundtrack a campfire night or some frolicking while wearing a leafy crown — just stay out of the yellow building.

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

16 Podcasts That Will Make You Smarter

Katy Perry Accused Of Sexual Misconduct By "Teenage Dream" Co-Star

The Brand-New Podcasts Of 2019 We Can't Wait To Listen To


A Week In Minneapolis, MN, On A $55,640 Salary

$
0
0

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 data-sciences analyst working in healthcare who makes $55,640 per year and spends some of her money this week on moving boxes.

Occupation: Data Sciences Analyst
Industry: Healthcare
Age: 23
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Salary: $55,640
Paycheck Amount (biweekly): $1,610
Gender Identity: Woman

Monthly Expenses
Rent: $625 for my share of a two-bedroom garden unit (about to go up to $880; I move next week)
Car Loans: $380
Student Loans: $0 (My parents paid 3/4, and another 1/4 came from a women-in-economics scholarship.)
Utilities: ~ $40
Savings: $550 (invested in mutual funds)
401(k): 8% (employer matches 30 cents on the dollar, no cap)
Car Insurance: $0 (still on my parents'; rolling off in 2020)
Life insurance, Short- and Long-Term Disability: $15
Dental/Vision/Health Insurance: $0 for premiums (thanks, awesome company!!)
Phone bill: $0 (on my dad's plan)
Spotify: $16 (family plan: me, my friend, my dad)
HBO & Netflix: $0 (dad's)
Hulu: $0 (roommate's friend's roommate's)
Amazon Prime: $0 (mom's)
Violence Policy Center Donation: $25
Minnesota Public Radio Member: $5
Boutique Fitness Studio: $139
Curology: $40
ClassPass: $15
Farm Share: $139 split with my coworker

Day One

8:45 a.m. — I wake up next to my friend F. after a late night out playing darts. My old work friends from Chicago have been visiting Minneapolis for the past few days, and as a result I have been sharing a bed all weekend. She has been a good bedmate, though, so I wake up pretty rested. I have three missed calls from my roommate and a cryptic text saying her boyfriend was a nightmare last night, so I shoot her a text to check if everything is okay, seeing as she isn't home.

11:30 a.m. — After watching some Stranger Things, cleaning up my apartment a little bit, and packing bags, we all pile into my car and head to the airport. A little over a year ago, I quit my job in Chicago and took a break to figure out what I wanted to do for my career and deal with my depression, and as a result moved away from these three friends. At the time, I felt so alone and sad that I couldn't see or appreciate the resources and support system around me, including these women. We had a lot of heart-to-hearts about it as a group, and I am planning a trip to Chicago for October!

12:15 p.m. — I arrive at my boyfriend, T.'s, apartment and help him fold some laundry. He tells me about the wedding he went to last night with coworkers. He is miserably hungover. We started officially dating a little under two months ago, and I am so madly in love with him. It's kinda crazy, since I only broke up with my ex-boyfriend in February, and we had dated for over three years. I never felt this way about my ex — odd how timing and the heart works like that. We order takeout ramen and walk a couple blocks to pick it up. He pays ($45), and we eat in front of the TV, rewatching Stranger Things since he hasn't finished the season yet.

3 p.m. — We go on a walk around Lake of the Isles, and I talk most of the time about all the dramatic funerals I have been to in my lifetime. We stop at one of our favorite coffee shops on the way back and get jasmine lemonade (we are parched!); he pays since I don't have my wallet with me on the walk ($8.50). Then we walk a block to the grocery store and buy ingredients for dinner, my favorite chorizo burger recipe. We grab bananas for him, and then buns, smoked chorizo, and a pound of grass-fed ground beef ($21).

5 p.m. — I take a Spin scooter ($10) back to my place to clean up and grab some veggies while T. is on a call with his family. I run into my roommate, K., and she recounts her horrific night babysitting her drunk bf. It involved vomiting in an Uber. Yikes. I vacuum and roll up the air mattress in the living room, then grab some of my farm-share veggies out of the fridge for dinner. $10

6 p.m. — I arrive at the bf's and start cooking us dinner. I mash the beef and chorizo together with Pepper Jack cheese and throw onions, zucchini, potatoes, and snap peas in the oven to roast. He is very impressed with the outcome, and I relish his appreciation.

7 p.m. — We walk a block to the local theater and buy tickets to The Lion King. I pay since I have been skirting the bills all day. $20

9:30 p.m. — Back on the couch watching Stranger Things. Naturally, I fall asleep for the whole thing.

Daily Total: $30

Day Two

7:30 a.m. — Wake up at the bf's and feel very tired, even though I slept a ton yesterday. I check Instagram and Words with Friends and then roll out of bed and kiss him goodbye. He is already showered and dressed for the day. He heads to work way earlier than I do, so this is our usual tango.

7:40 a.m. — I drive back to my apartment and shower and shave. I throw on my Curology serum since I didn't last night and then layer my GinZing Gel moisturizer from Origins over it (my favorite summer product!). I also rub my Burt's Bees sensitive eye cream over my dark circles. I throw on Madewell jeans and a lightweight cotton striped shirt. Work dress code is very casual. Then I do my makeup: Smashbox Photo Finish primer, Naked Urban Decay concealer under the eyes, Nars spot-corrector concealer on my dark marks, and my Tarte bronzer and blush duo. Then just some mascara. I am simple in the summer.

8:30 a.m. — I leave my apartment and stop to get gas ($40.36), and go to my local co-op and grab some things for breakfast and lunch the next couple days. I get coconut yogurt, organic strawberries (free as a co-op owner!), a hot-bar lunch of barbecue pork and rice, and I build a Greek salad at the salad bar ($29.80). $70.16

9 a.m. — Arrive at work and prepare my breakfast (I usually don't eat until I get in). I grab the coconut-flake granola from my file cabinet and put it over my strawberries and yogurt.

10:15 a.m. — In a very boring status meeting, and I read the Money Diaries about the woman who is cheating with multiple men. Everyone has their demons. I send it to my roommate, K., over Slack (she also works at the same company as me), and we concur that it is a good read.

1 p.m. — In between a couple meetings, I eat my lunch in our courtyard. I opt for the barbecue pork and sip on a La Croix (free from the work fridge).

3:40 p.m. — I leave work early to go to my second job. My team knows that I leave early on Mondays, so it's fine. Monday nights I usually close, so I will be here until 10 p.m. easily. I prepare myself for that reality. To have some extra money for savings and my car payment, I work 16-ish hours a week at a fancy restaurant in Minneapolis. I have a lot of former experience in hospitality, particularly working at a concierge dining club in New York back in the day, so when I decided to look for a part-time hosting position, I only wanted to work at the best in the cities. Unfortunately, as I have found over the past couple months working here, this place is pretty much smoke and mirrors, with the management and owners relying on media hype to draw the crowds in. On the whole, I don't think they know how to treat the customer, and the FOH staff, aside from the bartenders and hosts, are super bitter. TBH, I wouldn't be here for much longer, except for the fact that I need the money.

5:50 p.m. — Getting hungry and do my usual sweep of the kitchen to see if there is leftover pizza scraps to munch on. No luck.

10:15 p.m. — Closing time!! I take my shift meal home, a pepperoni pizza, and eat it in my bed with chicken nuggets. It is all about BALANCE, my friends. I text my boyfriend for a bit in bed and then hit the hay.

Daily Total: $70.16

Day Three

7 a.m. — I am too lazy to roll out of bed in time to catch my 7 a.m. gym class, so I go for a walk around Lake of the Isles instead. I listen to a podcast about financial responsibility along my route. I see a muskrat playing in a puddle and watch it frolic for an extended period of time.

8:15 a.m. — Back at home I quick-shower and dress, opting for Madewell shorts and a tunic from Coolibar, a sun-protection clothing company. Do my usual skin-care routine and makeup.

9 a.m. — Arrive at my coworker's house. He recently got his bike stolen, so I have been providing him a lot of rides to work. I am sure people in the office think we are dating because of it.

11:30 a.m. — I have a one-on-one meeting with my new manager, my first one since he started a couple weeks ago. He is a nice guy and seems intelligent, but his habits just irk me. I feel somewhat discouraged in the meeting, because he comments on one of my annual goals, improving my coding skills, saying that my skills are “fine” enough. Meh. He then continues to share that my coworker is being promoted, meaning that I am the last traditional project-based data analyst on the team.

12:15 p.m. — Today my dad is getting his colonoscopy. I pick him up from our designated meeting spot and drive him to his appointment (glamorous, I know). I work from the waiting room.

3:30 p.m. — The procedure went well! I drive my dad back to my parents' place and work from their deck for the remainder of the afternoon, cuddling with my dog.

5:15 p.m. — I strategically call it a day before my mom can get home (we have not spoken since last week; we are on a “break” of sorts) and hop in my car to drive a few towns over, where my cousin lives. She and I are doing a breakfast-for-dinner night (she chose the menu, as she is eight months pregnant), and I am in charge of dessert. I stop at the small grocery store in town and buy doughnuts to stick with the breakfast theme. $3

5:45 p.m. — I arrive at my cousin's and play with her cat for a bit (we are friends; I babysat him in March for a week). She asks me to scoop the kitty litter since her partner is out of town, and technically, as a pregnant person, she shouldn't be exposing herself to that. I oblige.

7 p.m. — My cousin brings up that she has spoken to my mom about our fight, which started over the fact that I didn't want my mom's help moving. Her rebuttal to that was to say that I was no longer welcome at my childhood house. Really nice. (I am moving to a new apartment next week, and historically my mom has a way of making me feel worthless and like I owe her for everything, especially big things, like help moving or paying for my car insurance, etc.). My cousin says that she has never seen my mom so sad, and that makes me feel sad, but I know that in order for her to adjust her behaviors and become respectful, she needs to know how upset I am with her. My cousin just asks that I reach out relatively soon, so that the silence doesn't go on forever. It is REALLY nice getting her opinion on it, simply because I don't really have anyone else who can empathize with me — my dad refuses to talk about it, and I have no siblings.

8 p.m. — I leave my cousins and go to T.'s place to Netflix and chill. He turns on Taxi Driver (why?), and I fall asleep within a few minutes. At some point I find my way to his bed.

Daily Total: $3

Day Four

7:15 a.m. — I wake up all groggy and lie in bed for a while, playing Words with Friends. I finally get up, and T. tasks me with making us coffee with his pour-over contraption (very annoying, would not recommend). We leave with our to-go mugs in hand.

7:45 a.m. — Run home quick and change. My hair isn't really dirty, so I decide to skip the shower. Today is Madewell shorts (again) and a Yale T-shirt that I bought while visiting my friend in med school there last winter.

8:45 a.m. — I arrive at the office, make my usual coconut yogurt breakfast, and send out a Slack update to the whole company reminding them of the wellness talk over lunch today. As one of the three employees in charge of our company's wellness program, in my down hours at work, I help set up guest speakers or fitness-forward activities for the whole company. Today's talk is on mindfulness meditation.

12:15 p.m. — After I introduce the speaker, I heat up leftover pizza from Monday night in our pizza oven (why there is one in the kitchen, I have no clue) and throw some Romaine and carrots on the plate for some nutrition.

2:30 p.m. — I have a meeting already on the calendar with my manager's manager from a while back — good timing given all the transitions lately, and my weird convo with my new manager yesterday. I express my concern about my role with the company — how do I even fit into this team anymore? And thankfully he says exactly what I hoped: I will continue to split my time between analytical prospective projects and scrum master type activities. He even shows me a presentation he will be showing to the leadership team about our team, and I am featured heavily in it for my work on a recent initiative. I feel very relieved and leave motivated.

3 p.m. — Walk with my roommate, K., around the office park. We stop to play giant water pong, which has been set up in the courtyard in preparation for the management company's monthly office park happy hour. We are horrible at it. I grab some chips at the happy hour for sustenance.

4:30 p.m. — I partition out my farm-share box with my coworker — potatoes, dill, pickling cucumbers, green beans, beets (yuck, give those to my coworker), green cabbage, white onions, green onions, and green garlic. I am very excited about the Thai basil this week!! Smells amazing.

5:45 p.m. — I leave work for the day and head to the co-op to pick up some ingredients for dinner. I plan on making Asian meatballs and slaw for dinner. I get a lime, bell pepper, red onion, 3/4 lb. of ground turkey breast, coconut aminos (I am mildly allergic to soy), rice vinegar, chili paste, a mixed berry coconut yogurt, more coconut flake granola for tomorrow's breakfast, a couple of ball jars, mustard seed, and peppercorns (I am going to pickle those cucumbers!). $41.12

6:25 p.m. — Drop my groceries off at home and head to the gym for a HIIT class. There is a major merch sale going on at the gym — all their apparel is done by Lululemon, and it's all 60% off. I don't need anything, plus the lady's stuff is super picked over, but bae asked me to get some things for him. I get two pairs of black shorts and three T-shirts for him. One of the T-shirts says “Legend” on it, and I know his ego will like that. He will Venmo me later. $203

8:15 p.m. — Bae meets me at my place, and I cook us the Asian meatballs (my own creation — ground turkey, garlic, green garlic, red onion, coconut aminos, black pepper, some leftover stir-fry sauce in the fridge, and sriracha) with some rice and whip together the slaw salad. He is thoroughly impressed.

9 p.m. — My mom texts me, asking if I want to meet up for a drink since she is in my neighborhood. I politely decline, but tell her she can swing by if she wants.

10:30 p.m. — Bae leaves, and I put my cucumbers in the ball jars to pickle and then do ALL the dishes by hand. I didn't see my mom's follow-up text asking for my address, and now I feel kinda bad and sad.

Daily Total: $244.12

Day Five

8:45 a.m. — I arrive at work. Make some oatmeal that I keep stocked in my drawer and casually work on a blog post for our team.

12 p.m. — Lunch with my two coworkers in our courtyard. I have leftover rice and meatballs from yesterday.

12:30 p.m. — I realize that I had missed a project request in our backlog that is technically due tomorrow. PANIC! I message the stakeholder, and he says the farthest he could push out the deadline is Wednesday. Given I am moving Tuesday, that means I have to get this project done by Monday, which is four days away. I get to work sorting things out. I am genuinely nervous that I won't get this project done on time, especially considering I have three shifts at the restaurant coming up and friend obligations each night this weekend.

6 p.m. — I finish my exploratory data work for the day and then depart to make a stop at Home Depot for some packing materials for the move. I get ten boxes, a tape gun, a lightbulb (ours in the kitchen is currently out), and bubble wrap.

7 p.m. — At home I make some quick pasta and watch my favorite YouTuber, Ashley Brooke, for a little bit. I have been watching her for YEARS, and I still never miss a single vlog.

8 p.m. — I start packing up some living room and kitchen items. It is very, very hot in our apartment (no AC), and I ask T. if I can sleep over at his place. Are we attached at the hip? Yes.

10:30 p.m. — Arrive at T.'s, and we hit the hay almost immediately.

Daily Total: $59.44

Day Six

8:15 a.m. — I get ready pretty fast and head into the office to get working on that project again.

12 p.m. — I have lunch in the courtyard with my usual duo. I developed a rule during my crazy-busy job in Chicago that I will never skip my lunch break or eat at my desk unless there is a cataclysmic reason why. Self-care and balance, people. I eat a leftover salad from the fridge with tuna. We then walk over to Caribou Coffee for a pick-me-up. K. pays for my iced latte ($4.50), since I bought her moving boxes yesterday.

4 p.m. — I continue chugging away on the project. I make a bag of popcorn (free from the kitchen) and stress eat. I have developed a headache; it may be the early onset of a migraine.

5:30 p.m. — The office is completely dead, so I finally leave for the day and head directly to my fitness studio for a workout with T. It involves a lot of box jumps, and I am pooped by the end.

7 p.m. — T. and I meet my friend from work at a beach on Cedar Lake for a cool-down swim. It is very refreshing and calms me down a bit. I have learned that a lot of the keys to keeping my anxiety at bay while stressed involve exercise and eating properly. I try not to let these things slip even while I'm under a lot of pressure, like I am right now, between work projects, moving, and my second job.

8:30 p.m. — I head back to my apartment, make some quick pasta, shower, and put on a “going out” look, which includes black heeled sandals and an American Apparel body-con dress.

10 p.m. — My best friend's boyfriend is playing his first show on home turf in a while (he is an electronic artist), so T. and I head over to a bar for a drink beforehand via Uber. We order gin gimlets ($26), and T. picks up the tab. I'll get the next round. $9.10

11 p.m. — We head into the venue, and the woman bouncer really pats us down, literally feels up under my boobs. I feel somewhat violated. We get in for free since we are “on the list,” and I pour myself a Maker's on the rocks in the green room.

12:30 a.m. — Show is on! He is amazing live, although I think my friends and I may be the only people not rolling at the event. At some point, I order my friend and me a round of drinks. $25

1 a.m. — My friend and I take an Uber back to our neck of the woods; she pays. I stay with her at a bar with her boyfriend and his friends for a few minutes, but then decide to trudge back home for sleeps — I am feeling moody after the past couple of days. I am too cheap and emo to pay for an Uber, so I walk a mile back to our place.

Daily Total: $34.10

Day Seven

9 a.m. — I wake up with a major headache and lie in bed catching up on Ashley Brooke. I am unsure if this is the migraine that I felt coming on yesterday or a headache just from staying up too late. I pop my migraine medication nonetheless and attempt to eat a fried egg so the medicine isn't on my empty stomach. Then I chug water.

10 a.m. — I throw clothes on. My makeup from last night still looks flawless, so I roll with it and head to grab a cold brew and a scone before job two starts. $8.50

2:30 p.m. — It has been a surprisingly busy day for a Saturday in the summer (we only have indoor seating). At the very least I haven't been bored. My coworker from job one comes into the restaurant with her godmother, who reminds me of my kooky granny (RIP). I send them over a complimentary burrata.

5 p.m. — I am out!! I quickly eat some free shift pizza and extra salad ($8.64) and head to get coffee. I order another cold brew and set to work on my project again for job one. It is really starting to come together. Toward the end, I take a break and start writing a letter to my mom with all my qualms listed out. I may revisit it later and send it to her next week. $13.39

8 p.m. — After stopping home quickly to freshen up, I meet my boyfriend at his place. I really wish I could stay in and veg tonight. I haven't had more than an hour or two for me in weeks. But we are heading to a going-away party for one of his friends who is moving to New York. Maybe I should learn how to just say no? I don't know.

10 p.m. — I don't know many people here, but I am mingling all right. It is interesting to me that his friends are actually interested in what I have to say — I feel like with a lot of the guys I have dated in the past, their friends are not very welcoming; yet with this crowd I feel like they want to engage out of genuine interest, not just politeness. We watch the Minneapolis Aquatennial fireworks from the balcony. T. is being very cuddly while drunk, it's sweet. At some point he tells me he wants to marry me, but that we “have a lot of work to do before we get to that point." Okay, you weirdo. He loses all filter while drinking.

12 a.m. — I am two White Claws deep, and that is enough for me. I have to work job two at 9 a.m. again tomorrow. I say goodbye to T. and his friends. I head out via Uber and call it a night. $8.87

Daily Total: $30.76

Want more Money Diaries? Well, you’re in luck — Refinery29 Canada is launching its own Canadian Money Diaries three times a week. (Which means once you’re done with catching up on all our diaries during your lunch break, you can head on over to R29 CA for even more.) You can now experience Money Diaries IRL at 29Rooms Toronto September 26th through October 6th. Buy tickets here.

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 Berlin, Germany, On A $55,000 Salary

I Got $40,000 In Scholarship Money & Still Have Two Jobs To Pay For College

A Week In Charleston, SC, On A $70,000 Salary

Your Horoscope This Week

$
0
0

We’re ready to think with our hearts this week, as our communication planet Mercury moves direct in sensitive Cancer. If you feel yourself being led by your emotions, take a step back and process them before expressing them. Mercury may be direct, but we’re still in a retro-shade period that acts the same as retrograde. Continue to triple check your work and communication all week while we’re in the messenger planet’s shade. Venus, the planet of romance, beauty and material wealth, moves through charismatic Leo this week, adding a dramatic flair to our love languages and aesthetics. Tap into your inner royal and hold your head up high as you prepare for your week.

Energetic Mars also moves through courageous Leo this week, influencing us to be graceful in our actions. It’s time for you to take pride in your work! Be wary while the action planet moves through Leo, and exercise your sense of humility. A need for connection arrives on Sunday morning when the Moon waxes in Libra at 9:29 a.m. EST. Monday feels surprisingly social as we catch up with co-workers from a weekend well spent. Nurture your relationships until 3:35 a.m. EST on Tuesday, when the Moon goes void-of-course. Our strategic minds sharpen as the Moon enters Scorpio at 11:31 a.m. EST on Tuesday. Monitor your reactions to others while the Moon waxes until 10:57 a.m. EST on Thursday.

The world feels a little brighter on Wednesday when the Sun trines fortunate Jupiter. Fight the urge to sit back and relax — this lucky day is a beautiful time to gain traction on your goals. Figure out your next steps while these two heavenly bodies work together. The optimistic vibe continues on Thursday, while sweet Venus trines Jupiter. If you’re single, this is a great day to get more comfortable in your skin and shine from within. In a relationship? Use the energy of this romantic trine to re-ignite your desire and enjoy each other’s company. If you need some time alone, you may be tempted to give your wardrobe a little upgrade or invest time revamping your skincare routine. Take the time to treat yourself as they work together. We’re ready to take more risks on Thursday when the Moon waxes in adventurous Sagittarius at 4:34 p.m. EST. Reconnect with the things that brought you joy as a child while the Moon waxes until Saturday at 3:50 p.m. EST and make time for relaxation until Sunday, as the Moon goes void-of-course.

Aries
March 21 to April 19

To quote Megan Thee Stallion, are you having a hot girl summer yet, Aries? If you’re not, you should embrace this powerful mindset while the Sun, your planetary ruler of joy and entertainment moves through your 5th house of creativity, pleasure, and romance. Mercury, your planetary ruler of health and work, makes his way through intuitive Cancer this week. You should feel encouraged to create better rituals at home to support your well-being. The Moon, your planetary ruler of home and family, waxes all week, reaching her first quarter on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. EST. If you’ve been tackling a home improvement project, you may feel like Sisyphus, climbing up a hill with no end in sight. Keep working to support your foundations, and have faith that your work will pay off. Get a second opinion if you need perspective. Are you craving a little adventure? Make time for vacation planning on Wednesday, when the Sun trines Jupiter, your planetary ruler of mind-expansion and travel. Reach out to friends with a shared sense of wanderlust and stick to your budget on Thursday, when your financial ruler Venus trines with Jupiter. If you can’t get away right now, keep tabs on your dream destinations, and start planning and saving.

Celia Jacobs.

Taurus
April 20 to May 20

Focus your energy on grounding yourself, Taurus. This week your domestic ruler, the Sun, gets extra cozy in your 4th house of family, instincts, and foundations. Does your space need a little lift? Inject a little color into your surroundings and coordinate shades that inspire you. Mercury, your financial ruler spends his time in thoughtful Cancer, encouraging you to be aware of your emotional relationship to your spending. Mars, your personal planet of inner growth spends the week in regal Leo, strengthening your sense of self. Wellness-minded Venus moves through Leo as well, helping you to elevate your day to day responsibilities. Invest in your health and sleep as she moves through this sign. If you’ve been waiting to make a transition in your home life, pay attention to your options on Wednesday, when your ruler of home and family, the Sun, trines lucky Jupiter. You’ll be at an advantage whether you’re looking for a new roommate, or a new apartment. Venus trines lucky Jupiter on Thursday, helping you to find ease in your routine. Work to create stability before Uranus, your career ruler goes retrograde early next week.

Cachetejack.

Gemini
May 21 to June 20

Your mind is clear, Gemini. The Sun brightens your 3rd house of communication, thought, and community all week, helping your interactions go smoothly. Mercury, your ruling planet and domestic ruler, moves through sensitive Cancer this week, encouraging you to open up to your loved ones. Want to treat them? Plan a family meal or BBQ to kick back and enjoy each other’s company. Don’t sweat the small stuff while Mercury moves through retro-shade — just be aware of your reactions. Are you looking to spice up your love life? Plan for Wednesday, when the Sun trines Jupiter, your romantic ruler. If you’re single, this is a brilliant day to explore meeting new people, or reconnecting with missed connections. Attached Geminis will enjoy this easygoing atmosphere, so why not make your home a date destination? The sensual vibe builds on Thursday, when charming Venus trines affectionate Jupiter. Just make sure your AC works before you turn up the heat!

Amber Vittoria.

Cancer
June 21 to July 22

It’s time to make money moves, Cancer. Your financial ruler, the Sun, lights up your 2nd house of finances, values, and possessions all week, helping to bolster your resources. Check on your accounts and make a note of your financial goals while the Sun illuminates this vital house. You’re ready to move forward this week while Mercury, your personal ruler of inner growth, moves direct — but hold tight. The messenger planet is still in a period of retro-shade, which is an opportunity for you to meditate on the changes you’d like to make to your inner self. Be patient while Mercury retraces his steps, and consider all points of view before you react to others strongly. You’re on the rise at work as Mars, your personal career planet, moves through Leo. Remember to acknowledge team efforts and stay humble while the action planet tours this proud sign. Consider the cost of your wellness routines on Wednesday, when the Sun trines Jupiter, your personal ruler of well-being. Is there something that you could be doing to save money? Are you using your gym membership? If you’re not into what you’re paying for, cut ties and start fresh. Venus, your domestic ruler trines active Jupiter on Thursday, encouraging you to seek out wellness solutions at home.

Ariel Davis.

Leo
July 23 to August 22

You’re the star of the show, Leo. The Sun continues to light up your 1st house of self, first impressions, and appearance this week, allowing you to entertain and connect. Pay attention to your spending this week as Mercury, your financial ruler, moves direct through the sensitive sign of Cancer. The messenger planet is currently in retro-shade, where he retraces his steps and encourages us to do the same. Take extra care of your assets this week until we’re out of the shade period. Venus, your career ruler, helps you sparkle at work as she moves through Leo. Get to work a little early this week so that you have time to settle in and formulate your plans. On Wednesday, Venus trines lucky Jupiter presenting you with new opportunities. Be particular about what you add to your plate and be aware of your responsibilities. This is also a wonderful day to connect with your manager, or even find new employees for your business. Consider carefully who you collaborate with.

Lynnie Z.

Virgo
August 23 to September 22

You’re a work in progress, Virgo. Work to understand the continuous nature of personal development while the Sun brightens your 12th house of inner growth, vulnerability, and conclusion this week. Learn to work through your emotions at work this week as Mercury, your ruling planet and career ruler, moves through Cancer. It’s time to accept that having feelings is something that you cannot separate from your work. Find their place, and create outlets for yourself that’ll help you to find balance. Retreat into your safe space on Wednesday, when the Sun trines Jupiter, your ruler of home and family. You may be inspired to reinvest into your surroundings on Thursday when Venus, your financial ruler, trines domestic Jupiter. Venus currently inhabits Leo, helping to infuse your personality in your home’s design. Experiment with a new look or do some serious research on your next big-ticket item.

Simone Noronha.

Libra
September 23 to October 22

You’re busy as a bee, Libra. The Sun lights up your 11th house of groups, friendships, and goals this week, helping you to connect with your friends and colleagues alike. Your focus turns toward creating balance in your work relationships on Sunday morning, while the Moon waxes in Libra on Sunday morning at 9:29 a.m. EST. Make time for water-cooler talk or invite a coworker out for coffee or lunch on Monday. The Moon leaves your sign at 3:35 a.m. EST on Tuesday. Mercury, your planetary ruler of inner growth and luck, moves direct this week, but there’s a catch — the messenger planet is still in retro-shade, retracing his steps. Make time to be alone with your thoughts and feelings as he moves through intuitive Cancer. Open up your day for connection on Wednesday, when the Sun trines Jupiter, your personal planet of communication. This is a brilliant time to start a wonderful partnership. Keep talks going and follow up on Thursday, when your ruling planet Venus trines personable Jupiter. Venus helps you to bring your best self to the table as she inhabits charismatic Leo all week.

Sarah Mazzeti.

Scorpio
October 23 to November 21

There’s a quiet confidence to you this week, Scorpio. Mars, your co-ruling planet, and Venus, your romantic ruler, move through the regal sign of Leo, bringing a new sophistication to your public image and relationships. Bring that mojo to work with you while the Sun, your personal career ruler, brightens up your 10th house of career, structure, and public image. Craft your strategies and listen to your instincts on Tuesday, when the Moon enters Scorpio at 11:31 a.m. EST. Have you been hankering for a raise? Look into your options for increasing your earnings on Wednesday, when the Sun trines Jupiter, your personal planet of money and value. People will be on your wavelength until the Moon leaves your sign on Thursday at 10:57 a.m. EST. Venus, your love ruler, trines money-minded Jupiter on Thursday, helping you to consider the financial impact in your relationships. If you’re in a relationship, this is a chance for you to take a look at your shared spending in a positive light. Single Scorpios should use this day to build themselves up and treat themselves to something special.

Kelsey Wrotten.

Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21

It’s important for you to have patience, Sagittarius. Mercury, your planetary ruler of both career and love, moves direct through sensitive Cancer this week. This offers you the chance to course-correct any misunderstandings that the messenger planet’s retrograde brought. Tread lightly as we are still in a retro-shade period — Mercury is retracing his steps.. The Sun lights your 9th house of exploration, adventure, and belief, inspiring you to continue expanding your mind. Now is the time to narrow down your interests and pursue your goals. Take action on Wednesday when the Sun trines lucky Jupiter, your ruling planet. Don’t shy away from the spotlight when it comes your way — show off your talents. Pamper yourself on Thursday when Venus, your personal planet of well-being, trines Jupiter. Don’t settle for less while Venus moves through regal Leo. It’s easier for others to understand your perspective on Thursday, when the Moon waxes in Sagittarius from 4:34 p.m. EST until Saturday at 3:50 p.m. EST.

Kissi Ussuki.

Capricorn
December 22 to January 19

How can you take better care of your body, Capricorn? Mercury, your personal planet of well-being, moves direct through domestic Cancer all week, offering you the chance to revamp your routines that support your health. Mercury may be moving forward, but we’re still in a retro-fade period, where there messenger planet retraces his steps. As one of the hardest working signs, it’s imperative for you to remember to mind your health. Embrace the changes that you need to make this week while the Sun brightens your 8th house of transformation, mystery, and dramatic change. Break away from your regular routines and take a moment to look at the bigger picture. Circle Wednesday in your calendar to meditate when the Sun trines Jupiter, your planetary ruler of spirituality and inner growth. Venus, your career ruler, trines thoughtful Jupiter on Thursday, encouraging you to search for deeper meaning in your professional journey. Instead of compartmentalizing your life, bring it together.

Loveis Wise.

Aquarius
January 20 to February 18

Is there anyone in your life that you’d like to get to know better, Aquarius? Take the opportunity to make the first move this week while the Sun, your planetary ruler of love, brightens your 7th house of partnerships, contracts, and business. Venus, your domestic ruler, moves through the regal sign of Leo all week, elevating your attention to detail at home. Single or attached, a beautiful day for love arrives on Wednesday, when the Sun trines Jupiter, the planet of good luck and expansion. If you’re single and looking to link up, this is a wonderful day to seek out people who compliment your intellectual and artistic sensibilities. Attached Water-bearers should take the opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and schedule a date that’s as stimulating as it is social. Thinking about fixing up your place? You could come across a real gem on Thursday, when homey Venus trines lucky Jupiter.

Hilda Palafox.

Pisces
February 19 to March 20

How do you protect your emotions, Pisces? You’re working to find harmony while Mercury, your planetary ruler of love, family, and home is still in retro-shade. The messenger planet is circling back through his path in intuitive Cancer, helping you to find new solutions to your emotional roadblocks. It’s time for a do-over. Focus your attention towards improving your well-being while the Sun, your planetary ruler of wellness, moves through your 6th house of health, order, and service. Do you feel like you’re in a creative rut? Don’t be discouraged by artistic delays as the Moon, your planetary ruler of imagination enters her first quarter on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. Making adjustments to your lifestyle will help you succeed professionally on Wednesday, when the Sun trines with Jupiter, your planetary ruler of career. Dress for the job you want on Thursday, when material Venus trines Jupiter. Invest time into your work wardrobe and create a go-to grooming schedule that has you looking sharp and fresh.

Rachel Jo.

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

This Astrologer Wants You To Rethink Compatibility

Your Horoscope This Week

Jupiter Is Going Direct, & We’ll Finally Be Thinking Clearly

Secret Make-Outs Are Hot — Here’s Where To Have One

$
0
0

What’s better than making out with someone you’re really into? Sometimes, the answer is doing more than making out. And sometimes, the answer is making out… secretly. Maybe you’re sneaking into the bathroom at a house party, taking a date-night detour into an empty park, or even parking your car at “Make-Out Point ” for some heavy petting, movie-style. Whatever your tactic, an impromptu, semi-hidden make-out session can be super hot.

And while PDA can be fun, it also comes with some downsides. A 2016 study on “performative making out” found that while 37% of men and 32% of women had engaged in PDA, women were more concerned that others would judge them for making out in public. "These results... highlight gender differences consistent with problematic cultural belief systems such as 'slut shaming,’ victim blaming, and sexual double standards," the researchers said.

So not only is making out in secret hot, it’s also a way to make you or your partner feel more comfortable. And hey, what’s hotter than that? Read these tips from Reddit to get inspired to find a secret make-out spot of your own.

In an empty sauna

“I made out with a girl in the sauna. It was like 200 degrees in there.” (via Reddit)

In a dark movie theater

“With my ex in some cinema. She sat at my lap and we just stayed there, kissing like the world was about to end, so passionately, it was awesome.” (via Reddit)

In an empty room

“In the middle of a friend’s BBQ party during the day, a girl and I met and had instant chemistry. We danced a little and then dodged into a dark side room and spent hours making out.” (via Reddit)

In an empty hallway

“Me and my girlfriend had just started seeing each other a few weeks earlier, but it was still kinda secret (for reasons), and we were both invited to a mutual friend’s Halloween party. Most people were outside on the balcony when she arrived, so I pulled her into a nearby hallway and we proceeded to suck face for awhile.” (via Reddit)

In a parked car

“I drove her home after school, she seemed reluctant to get out of the car. I turned off the ignition and moved closer to her, and we talked about something (I forgot as this was several years ago, but probably something dumb about school). She moved closer to me and just looked at me with those bright blue eyes, and I stopped saying whatever I was saying and made the move.

“We had kissed but never really made out til then, so I was surprised that it kept going and going and going, but was very happy about it! Eventually she had to go inside, and I was left with my very first experience with blue balls. 10/10 though, would do it again.” (via Reddit)

Outside a building

"We were at an event, don't remember what. We'd been dating for about two months, I'd already made it clear I wanted to keep it discreet (too much PDA is icky to me, and yes, I am a prude). We were walking out of said event, trying to make arrangements to get food, when he catches my attention, pulls me aside, out of view, and lays one on me, hot and heavy. And then was all, 'You looked really great tonight, just wanted to let you know.' And then we joined up with the rest like nothing had happened." (via Reddit)

In a cornfield

“At an outdoor beer festival a girl I had just met and I went out to the cornfield to make out. It was a lot of fun.” (via Reddit)

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

This Advice Will Make Dating In College So Much Better

The Surprising History Behind The Most Popular Wedding Traditions

26 Different Places Real Women Made Friends As An Adult

20 Dead & Two Dozen Injured In Mass Shooting In El Paso, TX

$
0
0

Twenty people were killed in a shooting at an El Paso, TX Walmart near the Cielo Vista Mall was the scene of an active shooter on Saturday afternoon, Gov. Greg Abbott said in a report from the Wall Street Journal. Two dozen more were injured. It is among the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history, and the most deadly since the Parkland, FL school shooting in 2018.

Police said the shooting began around 10 a.m. CT; as of 2 p.m. CT, officials said the area was no longer an active threat. Police Sgt. Enrique Castillo said that there were multiple reports of shots fired, both in Walmart and in the mall, in a press briefing.

Many of the 26 people wounded have life-threatening injuries, said El Paso Police Chief Greg Allen. Twenty-three were taken to local hospitals, CNN reports, including 13 at the University Medical Center of El Paso, where one died, medical center spokesman Ryan Mielke told CNN. Eleven others were taken to Del Sol Medical Center, hospital spokesman Victor Guerrero said. Police officials said in a tweet that blood donations are needed "urgently."

Castillo told the press that the police had one suspect in custody, Patrick Crusius, a 21-year-old white man from Allen, TX, a suburb of Dallas. He was booked on a capital murder charge, The Washington Post reports. The shooter, who was taken alive, reportedly posted a manifesto online that has not yet been verified by authorities.

Federal authorities are "seriously considering" hate crime charges, said John F. Bash, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, per The Washington Post. “We are treating it as a domestic terrorism case and we’re going to do what we do to terrorists in this country,” Bash said, according to the Post.

The shopping center is 5 miles from a border checkpoint with Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said on Twitter three Mexicans were among the victims, per CNN.

El Paso Mayor Dee Margo said, "Our community will not be defined by this senseless act of violence."

According to Gov. Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety and federal law enforcement were on the scene to assist local law enforcement. In a statement, Abbott said that Texas Rangers, troopers, special agents, tactical teams, and aircrafts were also deployed by the state "in a support role."

President Donald Trump was briefed on the incident and tweeted his condolences.

Texas Rep. Veronica Escobar, who represents El Paso, said she was monitoring the situation as it unfolded.

Former congressman and presidential hopeful Beto O'Rourke, who resides in El Paso, urged the city to stay safe. And in a televised statement, O'Rourke announced he was returning to the city immediately. He held back tears as he discussed the shooting, saying, "We know that [there's] a lot of injury, a lot of suffering in El Paso right now, and I'm incredibly saddened, it's very hard to think about this."

Walmart acknowledged the shooting in a statement, saying the company is "in shock" and working with law enforcement.

This is a breaking news story. We will update with additional details as they become available.

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

Layleen Polanco's Mother Is Suing NYC Over Her Solitary Confinement Death At Rikers

Here's What You Need to Know About the Gun Laws In All 50 States

Jeffrey Epstein Dies While Awaiting Sex Trafficking Trial

4 Ways To Fight For Gun Reform If You Don't Know Where To Start

$
0
0

The conversation around the issue of gun violence has changed greatly in the past few years, with advocates and lawmakers continuing to fight for stronger safety measures.

Friday marks Gun Violence Awareness Day because there is still clearly a lot of work left to be done. There were 251 mass shootings in the first six months of 2019 alone, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which tracks gun-related incidents in the United States. (The site defines "mass shooting" as an incident in which at least four people are either killed or wounded.)

So, what can you do if you want to join this fight? We're here to help. Ahead, we outline four ways you can push for gun reform measures in your community and nationally.

Support organizations working to reduce gun violence.

You can donate to or volunteer with national organizations that work to curb gun violence in the U.S. Many of them have local chapters you can join — if not, you can always start one!

Everytown for Gun Safety advocates for gun reform legislation. It also has a political action committee (PAC) to support candidates who vow to fight gun violence. One of Everytown's arms is the grassroots organization Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, which helps organizers at the local level.

The Brady Campaign is one of the nation's oldest gun safety advocacy organizations. It pushes for gun safety policies but also for the enforcement of measures already on the books. One of its goals is to reduce gun deaths in half by 2025.

Giffords, founded by former Rep. Gabby Giffords and her husband Mark Kelly, lobbies for gun safety legislation. It also has a political action committee (PAC) meant to elect lawmakers who support gun reform measures and unseat those who don't.

The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence is made up of 48 organizations working in tandem to reduce gun violence in America, from enacting safety measures to preventing gun-related suicides.

States United to Prevent Gun Violence is a grassroots network made up of 32 groups at the state level working to reduce gun violence through legislation, education, and community action.

Contact your elected officials.

If preventing gun violence is a cause you're passionate about, you should contact your representatives and let them know. Remember, they work for you — so don't underestimate the power of pressuring those who hold public office! If you're not sure where to begin, here's a handy guide on how to contact your representatives in Congress. But it is equally important that you contact your local and state officials, whose decisions have an immediate impact on your daily life. Go here to find out their contact information.

Educate yourself and others about gun reform.

For some, gun reform can be a polarizing issue. To cut through misinformation, it is important to be educated. If you want to learn more about legislation targeted at reducing gun violence and why these measures matter, you can start reading here.

Vote, vote, vote.

If you care about reducing gun violence in your community, you need to vote for the candidates up and down the ballot who will best represent your interests. Here's how to register to vote.

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

Layleen Polanco's Mother Is Suing NYC Over Her Solitary Confinement Death At Rikers

Here's What You Need to Know About the Gun Laws In All 50 States

Jeffrey Epstein Dies While Awaiting Sex Trafficking Trial

Viewing all 13911 articles
Browse latest View live


<script src="https://jsc.adskeeper.com/r/s/rssing.com.1596347.js" async> </script>