Every time August rolls around, people inevitably start waxing poetic about the first signs of fall. Some say it’s that first crisp leaf drifting to the ground, others insist it’s when the PSL takes over (earlier and earlier each year, may I point out). But let me make my case for the real sign the season has arrived: when OPI’s Lincoln Park After Dark starts showing up on every It girl’s nails. The moment bright reds and hot pinks are swapped for moody, bold OPI colors for fall, it’s officially time to start brainstorming your Halloween costume and texting the family group chat to figure out who’s hosting Thanksgiving.

The tricky part? Even once you notice everyone around you is rocking OPI fall nail polish shades, it’s not always easy to recreate the look yourself. It may seem as simple as grabbing the first dark fall polish you see, but the slightest variation in burgundy can make the difference between loving your mani and absolutely hating it. That’s why I’ve taken the guesswork out of it with a roundup of the best OPI colors for fall. Whether you’re a DIY nail girl or prefer to bring an exact color to your nail tech, these are the trending OPI fall colors I’ll be wearing all season long.

1. Cliffside Karaoke

OPI

Cliffside Karaoke

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If you haven’t heard yet, brown is the new black—and that includes your nails. Cliffside Karaoke is a timeless OPI nail polish shade, and there’s no better time to wear it than in the fall. Long nails, short nails—it all looks incredible with this nail polish.

2. Lincoln Park After Dark

OPI

Lincoln Park After Dark

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Lincoln Park After Dark is a best-selling OPI shade for a reason. It’s a bold, moody statement color that still manages to go with everything. Personally, I think this dark purple should be a staple in everyone’s beauty cabinet. I mean, OPI burgundy shades for autumn just make sense.

3. You’ve Got that Glas-glow

OPI

You’ve Got that Glas-glow

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Just because it’s fall doesn’t mean you have to completely pack away your nudey pinks. You’ve Got that Glas-glow is the perfect OPI neutral fall color. The mauve undertones make it a great transition color from bright summer pinks to sheer fall neutrals.

4. Things I’ve Seen in Aber-green

OPI

Things I’ve Seen in Aber-green

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IMO, it’s not fall if you don’t have a forest green in your OPI fall color rotation. This one is my go-to when I want a dark OPI polish that still adds a subtle pop of color to my outfit.

5. We the Female

OPI

We the Female

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In my world, red nails are a neutral—but the type of red shifts with the seasons. As the weather cools down, I like to reach for a deeper shade. We the Female is my go-to OPI dark red nail polish for fall.

6. Flannel Aerobics

OPI

Flannel Aerobics

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There’s nothing more quintessentially fall than pulling out your favorite worn-in, cozy flannel. Flannel Aerobics is that exact feeling bottled up and it instantly brings a warm, cozy vibe to any look.

7. Supernova Pearl

OPI

Supernova Pearl

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One of my go-to ways to spice up an autumnal manicure is with OPI metallic fall colors. Supernova Pearl is at the top of my list for when I want a neutral nail that’s not too neutral.

8. Penny Loafer Lane

OPI

Penny Loafer Lane

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Finding a fall orange nail polish that reads chic instead of pumpkin can be tough, but Penny Loafer Lane nails it (pun intended). If you usually gravitate toward neutrals but want to experiment with bolder fall shades, this is the one to try.

9. Slip Dressed Up

OPI

Slip Dressed Up

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I can never get enough of neutral fall colors, and this shade is one of my favorite OPI nail polishes. It feels neutral enough to pair with anything but has more personality than your standard nude. Thanks to its orangey-red undertone, it also feels thoroughly fall.

10. Totally Red-ical

OPI

Totally Red-ical

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If you want a fall red that doesn’t veer into burgundy, an orangey-red is the way to go. Totally Red-ical is just as bright as your red-hot summer mani, but it still leans into all the fall vibes.

11. Band Tease

OPI

Band Tease

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This metallic brown is a trending OPI fall color I can’t stop wearing. It’s more fun than your basic mani but doesn’t require chrome powders to get the effect.

12. Cargo All Out

OPI

Cargo All Out

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If I had to choose just one OPI fall nail polish for 2025, it might be Cargo All Out. The army green feels like the perfect accessory for a crisp fall day.

13. Midnight Mantra

OPI

Midnight Mantra

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One of the absolute best OPI colors for fall will always be a dark navy. Personally, Midnight Mantra is the one I reach for time and time again.

14. Grandma Kissed a Gaucho

OPI

Grandma Kissed a Gaucho

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If the second temps dip below 80 you’re reading thrillers, planning your Halloween costume, and binge-watching horror movies, this moody purple needs to be on your nails ASAP. It gives me spooky-season vibes without feeling too on the nose.

15. 7th & Flower

OPI

7th & Flower

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Let this be your sign that hot pink can totally work for fall—if it’s the right shade. 7th & Flower feels fun and bright without veering into summer territory, and I know I’ll be wearing it all season long.

Tips for Making Your OPI Manicure Last Longer

The last thing any of us want is to finally pick the perfect fall nail polish color, only for it to start chipping later that same day. If you’re wondering how to make your OPI manicure last, let me introduce you to my ride-or-die long-lasting manicure tips. First, always prep your nails properly. Any old polish should be completely removed, and I like to follow up with a nail strengthener to keep my nails healthy. Next, don’t stop at just one coat—apply two or three coats of OPI polish until you get your desired color. Be sure to let each layer fully dry before sealing everything in with a long-lasting top coat (this step is crucial for preventing chips). And finally, remember: healthy nails are happy nails. A cuticle oil will keep them hydrated and help your manicure look fresh longer.

Where to Buy OPI Fall Colors

OPI fall nail polishes are on sale at several different retailers. If you’re looking for where to buy OPI nail polish in person, head to your nearest Ulta or Target. Prefer to buy from the comfort of your own home? You can grab your favorite OPI shades on Amazon or directly from the OPI website.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor

As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.

READ LAUREN’S FULL BIO

The post The 15 Best OPI Nail Polish Colors for Fall 2025 appeared first on The Everygirl.

Is there any better feeling than the crisp days of early fall? Pumpkins are suddenly everywhere, new fall decor lines the aisles of our favorite retailers, and there’s coziness in the air that makes me want to cuddle up with a book or movie next to my fireplace. But the season hasn’t truly arrived until you light that first pumpkin-scented candle and bust out your fall decor.

Whether you’re ready to fill your home with all manner of pumpkins and fall foliage or you’re taking a minimalist approach with just a few autumnal touches, now’s the time to get decorating. If you need some fresh ideas for your setup this year, I’ve rounded up some of the best fall decor inspiration in all sorts of styles and aesthetics. These fall decor looks are ultra-cozy and festive, but they’re actually so easy to replicate:

If leaf-peeping is your favorite fall activity…

Seeing the leaves change is arguably one of the best parts of fall, and it’s only natural to want to bring some of that beauty indoors with you. Grab some artificial leaf stems, branches, or garlands to tuck around your home. These are great for filling vases or draping across a fireplace mantel. Then complete the look with a couple of pillows or throw blankets in colors inspired by fall foliage. It’s super easy to sprinkle these accents in amongst your existing decor to instantly give the room a seasonal spin.

Quince

Classic Cotton Velvet Pillow Cover

7 colors available

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Afloral

Plum Fake Cimicifuga Ramosa Leaves

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Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Golden Dogwood Artificial Fall Stem

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Afloral

Brown Artificial Cimicifuga Seeded Garland

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If you can’t wait for cozy season…

The start of fall means that colder weather is on the horizon, so the time is now to get your space ready for cozy fall evenings. Pile on the plush pillows and throws in rich, cozy colors like camel and mocha brown. Then ditch bright overhead lighting in favor of flickering candles and lamps that deliver softer ambient light. Once night falls, you’ll be able to bask in that warm, soft glow that’s just perfect for fall.

Pottery Barn

Faux Fur Ruched Throw

10+ colors available

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Anthroplogie

Pumpkin Cardamom Ceramic Candle

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Crate & Barrel

Tan Faux Fur Throw Pillow

6 colors available

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Anthropologie

Capri Blue Pumpkin Clove Candle

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 If you like your fall decor with a side of spookiness…

I like to think there are two types of people in this world: those who decorate for fall and those who decorate for Halloween. However, this entryway seamlessly channels both with gorgeous results. I love the pile of faux pumpkins beneath the console table, and the skeleton perched on the edge adds the perfect spooky touch. Be sure to gather pumpkins in several different shapes, sizes, and colors to create a layered, texture-rich look.

Crate & Barrel

Medium Handwoven Seagrass Vase

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At Home

Orange Irregular Pumpkin

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Target

60-Inch Posable Skeleton

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World Market

Faux Wood Gourds

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If you love rich, moody colors…

I love dark, moody colors any time of the year, but rich hues like burgundy and forest green feel especially right in the fall. This living room’s color combo perfectly nails the cozy vibe I crave on chilly fall days and looks extra luxurious thanks to textures like faux fur, velvet, and rattan.

Amazon

Boucle Pumpkin Pillow

7 colors available

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Pottery Barn

Faux Fur Ruched Throw

10+ colors available

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Amazon

Vintage Gold Framed Wall Art

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Walmart

Woven Faux Rattan Vase

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If cottagecore is your vibe…

Cottagecore girlies, fall is your time to shine. This cozy, nature-inspired aesthetic naturally lends itself to fall, but it’s a look you can easily rock year-round. Start with plenty of cozy textures and some vintage-looking wall art, then lean into the fall vibes with patterns like gingham and warm tones like rust and camel brown.

Threshold

Gingham Duvet and Sham Set

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Amazon

Gold Framed Flower Wall Art

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Threshold x Studio McGee

Block Print Floral Throw Pillow

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Crate & Barrel

Chunky Hand-Knit Bed Throw Blanket

2 colors available

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If you love a fall front porch moment…

Nothing screams fall like a front porch overflowing with pumpkins, gourds, and mums. But if you don’t feel like spending a fortune at the garden center year after year, might I suggest investing in some faux options you can reuse over and over. Pile everything onto your front steps, alternating colors and sizes to create a layered look. Then pull it all together with some lanterns and a fun doormat.

Pottery Barn

Faux Pumpkins & Gourds

5 colors available

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Amazon

Wood Lantern Set

7 colors available

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Wayfair

Home Sweet Home Doormat

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Ballard Designs

Faux Autumn Gourd

6 colors available

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If you’re dreaming of a cozy cabin getaway…

A cozy cabin in the mountains is absolutely where I’d like to be come fall, and this space perfectly nails that vibe. Warm wood tones and shades of brown are key to this look, as are plenty of plush throws for cuddling up by the fire. Add in a few sprigs of fall leaves or branches, and you’ve got the perfect rustic fall look.

Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Woven Grid Throw Blanket

3 colors available

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Michaels

32″ Faux Bittersweet Stem

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Threshold

Gold Round Aluminum Tray

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Crate & Barrel

Cognac Velvet Pillow

10+ colors available

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If you want a one-and-done approach to fall decorating…

Fall decorating doesn’t have to be complicated, and this living room proves it. With the addition of some pumpkin-shaped pillows, a cozy throw, and a touch of fall foliage, you can instantly give your space a seasonal vibe without having to change any of your existing decor.

Amazon

Boucle Pumpkin Shaped Pillow

7 colors available

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Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Black Plum Leaf Artificial Fall Arrangement

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Pottery Barn

Moss Green Velvet Pillow

10+ colors available

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Pottery Barn

Textured Basketweave Knit Throw

6 colors available

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If you’re planning to host this fall…

Fall is the prime time for hosting gatherings of friends and family, so consider this your sign to give your tablescape a fall-inspired makeover. Candles are a must, of course, and you can’t go wrong with woven placemats or a seasonally appropriate tablecloth. Adding pillows or a faux fur throw to your seating can also go a long way in making your guests feel welcome and extra cozy.

Pottery Barn

Frayed Linen Table Throw

2 colors available

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Threshold

Water Hyacinth Charger Placemat

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Amazon

Gold Pumpkin Candle Holder Set

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Pottery Barn

Faux Fur Mink Hide

2 colors available

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If you’re ready to make your bedroom as cozy as possible…

It’s time to cozy up our bedrooms with natural textures, layers, and earth-toned accents. Take inspiration from this bedroom and put away your bright white sheets for warm greys and beiges. Layer quilts, blankets, and pillows—even if your partner doesn’t understand why there are so many. Add a cozy fall-scented candle to your nightstand for a final seasonal touch.

Quince

European Linen Sheet Set

10+ colors available

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Etsy | HabitationBoheme

Green Block Throw Pillow Cover

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Quince

Organic Airy Gauze Throw

9 colors available

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Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Harvest Chestnut Glass Jar Candle

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If you love all the colors of fall…

Nature is the best source of inspiration when it comes to fall decor. Rely on nature-inspired hues like terracotta, rust, marigold, sage green, and russet brown for the ultimate autumn color scheme. If your space already has a neutral foundation, you can easily bring in these colors through accessories like wreaths, pillows, throws, and decorative accents.

Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Golden Dogwood Artificial Fall Arrangement

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Threshold

Faux Mohair Bed Throw

3 colors available

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Rejuvenation

Velvet Pillow Cover

10+ colors available

Shop now

Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Preserved Golden Yarrow Fall Wreath

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If you’re not big on fall decorating…

You don’t have to go all out to make your home feel cozy and festive for fall. A few small but impactful touches are all you need to get your space ready for the season. Ditch the flowers and fill a vase with a few stems of fall foliage instead, and consider swapping out your pillows and throws for autumn-inspired picks. Plaid or checkered prints and colors like burgundy, brown, and gold are perfect for setting a subtle fall tone.

Pottery Barn

Boucle Throw Pillow

10+ colors available

Shop now

McGee & Co.

Neutral Plaid Throw Blanket

Shop now

Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Black Plum Leaf Artificial Fall Arrangement

Shop now

Threshold

Woven Plaid Throw Pillow

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Jessica Friedhoff, Senior Lifestyle Editor

Jessica Friedhoff is the Senior Lifestyle Editor at The Everygirl, where she oversees the Home & Living category of the site. She writes and edits stories across a broad range of topics including decorating, food, entertaining, travel, and more. With a pulse on the latest trends, she uses her eye for detail and design to create timely, inspiring content for our readers.

READ JESSICA’S FULL BIO

The post 12 Easy Fall Decor Looks + How to Copy Them appeared first on The Everygirl.

I have a friend with a stacked resume. She is successful in her industry and has a great job, and from the outside looking in, has a career that has perfectly fallen into place. So when she told me that she applied to hundreds of jobs in search of a new role and only landed one interview, my jaw literally dropped. I mean, I knew the job market was bad, and I had heard similar stories from other people, but I’d never imagined it would happen to her. Fed up with the system, she decided to take matters into her own hands: she cold-pitched two companies and heard back from both… on the same day.

With applicant tracking systems (ATS) auto-rejecting resumes before a human even sees them, cold pitching might be the most effective way to actually get your experience in front of a real person. But a successful cold pitch doesn’t start at the ask. It requires some initial legwork and strategy—including spiffing up your LinkedIn and a bit of relationship building. With this in mind, I asked a career coach how to cold pitch from start to finish, whether there’s an open role or not, so burnt-out job seekers can actually get their foot in the door. Ahead, I’m sharing step-by-step guides to cold-pitching, templates to use, and more.

MEET THE EXPERT

Linda Ta Yonemoto

After coaching 100+ professionals and walking away from a successful 14-year career in tech and agency, Linda Ta Yonemoto retired from her corporate executive role at 36 to live life on her own terms. Now the founder of Good For You Money, she teaches women how to build confidence, navigate career growth, and achieve financial freedom by aligning their work, values, and wealth.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LINDA

What you need to do before you send a cold pitch

Before you even begin reaching out to anyone, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure your cold pitch is effective. Since most cold-pitching takes place on LinkedIn, you’ll want your LinkedIn profile to shine. So, make sure all your experience is updated, add links or documents that showcase your best work, and rewrite your about section. According to Linda Ta Yonemoto, CFEI®, a career and financial coach, so many candidates skip this step, but it’s crucial for making a good first impression.

READ: 8 LinkedIn Profile Mistakes That Are Keeping You From Getting a Job, According to LinkedIn’s Career Expert

After that, it’s time to do some research on the company. Find out who works there, what projects they might be working on, and spend some time looking at their website. What characteristics or values do you and the company have in common? What initiatives do they have in place that you could potentially help with? What about the company are you passionate about, and where do your skills align? You’ll use this information to tailor your pitch so it’s engaging and actually makes them want to hear more from you.

Finally, you’ll want to update your resume—and tweak it according to the job or company you’re interested in. For open roles, review the job description and highlight the keywords that align with your experience throughout your resume, such as the software or skills they desire in a candidate. If there isn’t an open role, instead of including keywords from the job description, highlight your shared values, projects that would be of interest to them, or anything else you think would make you a valuable addition to their team. That way, you can confidently attach your resume to your cold pitch and show the company that you’re qualified and aligned.

How to cold pitch for an open role

Sending a cold pitch in addition to your application can position you ahead of other candidates. “Cold pitching gives you visibility and helps you differentiate yourself as someone ambitious, proactive, and resourceful,” says Yonomete. With that said, here is the exact method to follow when cold-pitching yourself for an open role:

1. Find the hiring manager

Yonemoto explains that you need to target the hiring manager if you’re cold-pitching for a role that’s already open. How can you find them? Well, “Most hiring managers will publish LinkedIn posts when their role goes live,” explains Yonemoto. But if you are still unable to find the hiring manager for the position, she recommends going to the company’s LinkedIn page and looking under the “People” tab. From there, search for who would likely be the hiring manager. You can do this by looking for who has a senior title in the department associated with the role. For example, you could reach out to the head of marketing for a social media editor role. While this isn’t foolproof, you’re likely to reach the right person—or reach someone close who can point you in the right direction.

2. Send your cold pitch

Now, it’s time to pitch yourself! Here’s a template that Yonemoto recommends using when reaching out to the hiring manager, whether that’s through a message on LinkedIn or via email, which you may be able to find on their profile or the company’s website.

“Hi [first name],

I saw the [job title] role on your team and applied. Your search for someone who has worked on [technology, expertise] and [another technology, expertise] is a match for the value I can add. Over the last [# of years of experience], I have:

[add 2-3 bullet points about specific and measurable wins describing the scale and scope of the impact, which are relevant to the role]

Would you be open to connecting on a 15-minute call to share about the role at [company name]?”

From here, you may not hear back right away—that’s OK! It never hurts to follow up with them a few days later to remind them of your qualifications and interest.

How to cold pitch when there isn’t an open role

Cold pitching isn’t just reserved for roles that are open. In fact, a more effective cold pitching method is to start before there is even a job available, according to Yonemoto. However, she explains that it can be a little harder and requires networking. Here are the steps she recommends following:

1. Connect with professionals in your desired industry

Start by identifying and following 15-20 professionals on LinkedIn who work in your target role, industry, or niche, and those who already work for your dream companies. If they are active on LinkedIn, Yonomete advises engaging with these professionals’ posts through likes and comments so your name becomes visible and familiar to them. If they aren’t active, check the “contact info” button on their profile to see if they have an email listed that you can reach out to instead.

“Cold pitching gives you visibility and helps you differentiate yourself as someone ambitious, proactive, and resourceful.”

2. Send a connection request with a short message

Yonemoto says, “No one likes getting pitch-slapped in the first DM by total strangers,” so you’ll want to start by sending a friendly message. Here’s an effective template:

“Hi [name],

I found your profile while researching roles about [target job title]. Your background in [insert brief statement showing you did the research] and your journey stood out. I’d love to connect and follow your work.”

3. Ask to meet

Once they accept your request, Yonomete recommends asking if they’d be interested in having a virtual coffee chat with you. In this meeting, your goal is just to get to know them and learn more about how they got into the role they are in. Here’s what that follow-up message can look like, according to Yonomete:

“Thanks for connecting. I’m exploring a [pivot/transition] into [target job title(s)] after [# years time period] in [current area/role]. Your path in [area/industry] is inspiring and the kind of move I’d like to make too. Would you be open to a 15-20 minute [virtual/in-person] coffee chat? I’d love to hear about what helped you land the role at [company] and your journey.“

If they say yes, make sure to respect their time, coming in with questions prepared and ready to tell them a bit more about yourself and your career goals. If they aren’t able to meet with you, that’s OK. Continue building up your relationship until you feel ready to pitch yourself to them.

4. Follow up with a pitch

Once you have built a bit of rapport, you can move into the final (and most important) step: the pitch. Since you’ve been building a relationship with them, this pitch does not need to be overly formal. It’s a personalized, thoughtful message that thanks them for their time while also communicating your interest in working with them or their company in the future.

“Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me! I really enjoyed our conversation and learning more about your journey at [company]. Talking with you affirmed the direction I’m moving toward in my career, and I left even more excited about the work your team is doing at [company].

If any opportunities open up, either now or down the line, I’d love to be considered. I’ve attached my resume for your reference. Please feel free to pass it along if anything comes to mind. Either way, I greatly appreciate your time and insight and would love to stay in touch!“

Since a job isn’t open, you may not see immediate results from this interaction, but over time, building these relationships can help you move forward in your career. Even if this contact may not be hiring now, they might know someone who is that they can point you toward.

What to avoid when cold pitching

The more intention you put behind your cold pitch, the better it will be received. Avoid these common cold-pitch mistakes, and you’ll be more likely to get a response.

• Sending a pitch to a generic company email.
• Pitching yourself to someone in your industry without first building a relationship with them.
• Not customizing your subject line with something eye-catching if you’re sending your pitch through email.
• Not sprucing up your LinkedIn and resume before reaching out.
• Sending a message that’s too long.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lauren Barnhill, Contributing Writer

Lauren Barnhill is a freelance writer with a passion for all things fashion, beauty, home, and lifestyle. Beyond The Everygirl, Lauren has written for top outlets including Real Simple, SUCCESS, and BuzzFeed. She is also the voice behind Leisurely, a Substack newsletter all about living an unhurried, intentional life.

READ LAUREN’S FULL BIO

The post This Underrated Job Search Strategy Will Help You Beat Out the Competition appeared first on The Everygirl.

Yes, I go to therapy. But on days when my therapist isn’t on call for my meltdown over hitting “reply all” to that last email, I turn to the next best form of therapy I know: wandering the beauty aisle at CVS. Scanning the shelves for a new moisturizer to try or the perfect shade of lip gloss I definitely don’t need but absolutely must have. It’s truly my happy place, and CVS always delivers. You don’t need to spend your entire paycheck or buy luxury to get the dopamine rush that comes with finding a new product that makes you feel your best.

During CVS’s Epic Beauty Sale, you can save $10 for every $25 you spend on beauty and personal care items. It’s the perfect excuse to grab your daily staples and try something new (because yes, that trending concealer counts as a need). You can shop our editors’ favorites on sale in-store or just have them shipped right to your door because convenience is beautiful, too. Here are the picks we’re adding to cart ASAP:

Skincare

CVS has every skincare staple you could ever truly need. From cult-favorite EOS products to the tried-and-true Neutrogena Gel Moisturizer, you can grab all of your go-to products in one trip.

E.l.f.

Bright Icon Vitamin C Serum

Made with vitamins C and E to brighten your skin (perfect for summer coming to a close… sigh), this is a super affordable alternative to other popular serums.

Shop now

Neutrogena

Hydro Boost Water Gel

This is one of those products that I’ll restock until my future grandkids start stealing it from my cabinet. It’s light, hydrating, doesn’t leave me oily, and is, in my humble opinion, way better than a ton of luxury brands.

Shop now

Neutrogena

Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

I will always be lazy when it comes to taking my makeup off—sue me! So these bad boys are my tried and true. They’re gentle on my skin and do a great job of getting every last bit off with just a few wipes.

Shop now

Vacation

Chardonnay Oil SPF 30

A tanning oil that smells and feels like vacation, doesn’t break the bank, and will help me absorb the final high UV days of the year to the fullest? Sign me up.

Shop now

eos

Vanilla Cashmere Body Lotion

If you’ve ever had ShowerTok grace your FYP, you’ve seen this body lotion before. It’s a cult favorite for a reason—smells divine, not too thick, and leaves you with baby-soft skin every time.

Shop now

Bubble

Day Dream Serum

The brand Bubble has been doing her big one recently, getting a ton of buzz, and rightfully so. This serum helps with texture and even tone for a fraction of the price of high-end skincare brands.

Shop now

Makeup

Whether you’re running low on your favorite mascara and need to snag a refill or want to try a new foundation without breaking the bank, the CVS makeup department has you covered.

Burts Bees

Boosted Balm Cheeky Cherry

Burt’s Bees chapstick will always be that girl. I think there’s been one at the bottom of all my bags since middle school, and I will definitely be adding this tinted balm into the mix for both hydration and a subtle pop of color to my everyday makeup.

Shop now

Maybelline

Colossal Bubble Mascara

If you have a hard time finding mascara that doesn’t clump, try this RN. The brush is spiral-shaped with deep-cut bristles for a separated, sleek look every time.

Shop now

Milani

Conceal + Perfect Smoothing Primer

I, along with most people, don’t have the time or energy to touch up my makeup throughout the day. This primer keeps everything put from morning to night so I don’t look like an oily raccoon by the time 7 p.m. rolls around.

Shop now

Physicians Formula

Butter Bronzer

This bronzer actually gives the most beautiful, non-glittery finish. It also comes in a few easy-to-wear shades and smells SO good (IYKYK).

Shop now

E.l.f.

Hydrating Camo Concealer

This is another staple in my personal makeup bag. It doesn’t crease under my eyes, never looks cakey, and is literally the price of an iced latte.

Shop now

E.l.f.

Sheer For It Blush Tint

I am a liquid tint woman ’til the day I die, and I recently discovered this one that’s one-third of the price of the one I’ve been using since high school. Consider me converted.

Shop now

Hair

Lucky for us, CVS carries haircare products suited for any and all hair types. From shampoo and conditioner to volumizing spray and gels, these products will transform your hair.

OGX

Bonding Repair Heat Protectant

For the love of God, please stop frying your hair with the everyday blowouts and spray on a layer of this repairing heat protectant. Your ends will thank you!!!

Shop now

Nexxus

Hy-Volume Shampoo

This is a holy-grail shampoo for all the flat, fine-haired gals out there (me). Packed with hyaluronic tubing tech, this shampoo lifts every strand for instant, weightless volume—no sulfates, no silicones, no flat hair.

Shop now

Kenra

Volume 25 Spray

Sometimes, no matter what products you use to wash or tools you use to dry, your hair just needs a little extra zhuzh for volume—and this Kenra spray does literal witchcraft.

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California Naturals

Anti-Thinning Regrowth Shampoo

This shampoo works double duty—zinc and caffeine nourish the scalp to boost follicles, reduce flakes, and promote healthy growth, while biotin strengthens roots and strands to help prevent breakage and keep hair looking fuller, longer.

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Overtone

Color Depositing Treatment Mask

If you dye your hair like I do, we all know that weird in-between phase where your color is a bit faded but it’s too early to go in for a touch-up. That’s where this mask comes in to bring it back to life.

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The Doux

808 Base Gel Curl Activator

This medium-hold gel locks in your curl pattern while keeping it bouncy, smooth, and flake-free—aka the perfect frizz-fighting base for whatever you layer on next.

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Personal Care

In the market for a new deodorant for the summer heat, a body wash that brightens and soothes your skin, or products to amp up your oral care routine? CVS has it all—and at amazing price points.

Lume

Whole Body Deodorant Spray

The way that this spray has every podcaster in a chokehold… and for good reason! Every part of you needs love, not just your pits.

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one+other

Fresh Melon Sugar Scrub

OK, fair warning: This might sound gross, but I love watching dead skin come off during an everything shower. This sugar scrub helps me shed it all, and thanks to the shea butter, it leaves my skin baby-soft and smooth every single time.

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Native

Body Wash

I’m a longtime Native user, and this vanilla & cactus flower is sweet yet subtle and layers perfectly with perfumes and lotions.

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Secret

Whole Body Deodorant Spray

Here’s another full body deodorant spray that we swear by—this one legitimately smells like sunshine in a bottle.

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Bio-Oil

Skincare Oil

I like to keep my skincare as minimal as possible, so the fact that this is an all-in-one oil that targets both dark spots and stretch marks is ideal.

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Dove

48-Hour Deodorant Spray

Can you tell that I’m obsessed with spray deodorant? Long-lasting, aluminum-free, and affordable? What more could you want?

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Crest

3D Whitestrips

I have been using these since high school, and they’ve never steered me wrong! I always get visible results in about a week for a tiny fraction of the price I’d be paying for professional whitening services.

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Boka

Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste

Boka’s toothpastes go beyond just cleaning the surface of your teeth—they remineralize enamel, freshen breath, and whiten teeth in one. Love!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

McKenna Pringle, Branded Content Editoral Assistant

As the Branded Content Editorial Assistant, McKenna collaborates with our sales team by creating both written and social media content, collecting and analyzing performance data to report back to our partners, and assisting our editors with their everyday tasks to ensure a smooth and productive process.

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This post is sponsored by CVS, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board.

The post Low Price, High Praise: These Are the Under-$25 Beauty Finds Our Editors Swear By appeared first on The Everygirl.

I’ve always been a one-pan kind of cook. The type who likes to toss, pour, and season everything in one place. That’s because if I’m being truly honest, I don’t really love to cook. Life is busy, and my patience for chopping and sautéing is microscopic—especially during the week. But hand me a crockpot and a pile of fresh ingredients I can dump in, forget about, and come back to a few hours later, ready to serve? Suddenly, I’m the kind of person who adores being in the kitchen.

That’s why fall is one of my favorite seasons for cooking. For me, it’s all about those cozy, comforting recipes that make your house smell amazing while requiring bare-minimum effort on my part. Thanks to my trusty crockpot, my go-to fall meals are just as easy as they are delicious. Keep scrolling for some of the best fall crockpot recipes to make this season, from hearty stews and chilis to dump-and-bake fall desserts.

Crockpot recipes to make this fall:

You can use your crockpot for just about anything, but fall recipes are where this appliance really shines. Dust off your slow cooker for these easy recipe ideas this fall:

• Cozy soups: Crockpots make it easy to whip up warm, delicious soups without having to spend hours at the stove. From creamy butternut squash to classic chicken noodle, there are so many cozy soup recipes that are perfect for fall. Simply add all the ingredients, stir occasionally, and serve when ready.
• Hearty stews: Stews are the epitome of fall recipes, and they taste best when all your ingredients have time to get to know each other in a crockpot. Combine your choice of vegetables—like carrots, onions, or root veggies—with your favorite protein, like beef or chicken, and let the crockpot do the rest.
• Big-batch breakfasts: My mom always used to make oatmeal in the crockpot for big family functions, and now I understand why. Your slow cooker is a secret weapon for cozy, flavorful breakfasts you can make in advance to feed a crowd or stash in the fridge for later.
• Shareable desserts: Crockpots can be just as handy for desserts as they are for main courses, offering an easy, hands-off way to prepare warm, comforting treats like apple crisp and pumpkin cheesecake.

1. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

This isn’t your basic, bland broccoli and chicken dinner. With a little kick from the additions of salsa verde, paprika, and chili powder, this crockpot recipe is perfect for when you want to make chilly fall evenings just a little bit cozier. Serve it up over rice for a creamy, delicious fall dinner.

2. Crockpot Vegetarian Chili

Having a go-to chili recipe is arguably just as essential as a good pair of fall boots. And this vegetarian (and vegan-friendly) chili is a perfect addition to your fall meal rotation. It’s customizable, easy on the wallet, and made with just the right amount of spice for a little kick.

3. Overnight Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Filled with delicious bites of pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and vanilla, this slow cooker pumpkin oatmeal is a great option for entertaining overnight guests this fall. Since the oats cook in the crockpot for six to eight hours, you can throw this recipe together the night before and wake up to a warm, cozy breakfast. Bonus: This recipe is also vegan-friendly and gluten-free!

4. Beef Stew

This crockpot beef stew recipe cooks low and slow for up to eight hours, so it’s the perfect thing to throw together before work. By the time you log off for the evening, you’ll have a rich, hearty meal ready to serve. Delivering big flavor with minimal effort, it requires very little babysitting and tastes even better the next day. You can also store it for up to two months in the freezer!

5. Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup

This butternut squash soup tastes like fall in a bowl. Packed full of seasonal produce and rich flavor, it’s both vegan and gluten-free, and it only takes 10 minutes of prep. An immersion blender makes it easy to achieve that smooth, creamy consistency, but a regular blender works, too.

6. Crockpot Herb Butter Chicken and Wild Rice

This is a recipe you’ll love coming back to over and over again. The mix of wild rice, veggies, and herbs creates a deliciously savory, aromatic dish that’ll make your whole house smell incredible. And while you could cook everything in the crockpot and serve immediately, this dish is even better if you broil the chicken at the end for a little extra crispiness.

7. White Bean and Kale Soup

Packed with plant-based protein from quinoa and white beans, this soup is great for delivering a protein-heavy meal without actually feeling heavy. True to the best crockpot recipes, it promises to be very hands-off with few check-ins required. The recipe also recommends topping off with just a touch of parsley and freshly grated Parmesan.

8. Crockpot Grape Jelly & BBQ Meatballs

With only three main ingredients, these slow cooker grape jelly meatballs are perfect for entertaining guests during game days or casual hangs. All you need is some frozen meatballs, barbecue sauce, grape jelly, and a couple hours of patience before biting into these tender, juicy delights. You can serve these as an appetizer or pair with rice for your main course.

9. Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry

Made with sweet potatoes, chickpeas, cauliflower, and spinach, this slow cooker curry recipe packs all sorts of nutritious fall veggies into a cozy, flavorful meal. It’s perfect for days when you’re nursing a stubborn seasonal cold or just craving something warm and comforting.

10. Apple Cider Pulled Pork

BBQ is a known summer classic, but this apple cider twist makes it seasonally appropriate for the fall, too. The pork needs about eight hours in the crockpot, but the tender, juicy results are totally worth the wait.

11. Creamy Tortellini Soup

This tortellini soup is comfort food in its creamiest, cheesiest form. If you’re in a time crunch, you can cook this recipe on the stove in just under 30 minutes, but if you want a hands-off approach, it cooks just as deliciously in a slow cooker for four to five hours. Just be sure to add the tortellini to the cooker 30 minutes before you want to serve!

12. Crockpot Apple Crisp

Not only is this fall dessert recipe packed full of sweetly spiced goodness, but it will make your home smell utterly delicious, too. Simply mix your topping ingredients, cut your apples, and combine everything in the slow cooker for two to three hours.

13. Crockpot Bolognese Over Roasted Spaghetti Squash

Sitting atop a plate full of tender spaghetti squash, this bolognese is full of meaty goodness and serves ultimate cozy vibes. And while you could cook this hearty sauce over the stovetop, the convenience of the crockpot makes it so much easier for weeknights (but just as delicious). Pro tip: Although you can make this recipe in four hours with the crockpot on high, it’s best to let it simmer on low for eight hours.

14. Sweet Potato Stew

This cozy sweet potato stew works just as elegantly on the dinner table for weeknights as it does for entertaining guests. It’s full of sweet and savory spices and pairs magically well with rice, quinoa, or a soft dinner roll.

15. Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Not sure what to make for dinner this season? A cozy, nostalgic dish like chicken and dumplings is always a win. It’s perfect for weekday meal prep or feeding a crowd and keeps things effortless by using refrigerated biscuits.

16. Crockpot Apple Cider

As chilly evenings settle in, so does my craving for a piping hot cup of apple cider. And while a store-bought jug is nice, opting for a homemade alternative can be so much more special. This recipe takes just five minutes to prep but can simmer in your crockpot for up to seven hours. It’s sweet, tangy, and ultra-delicious!

17. Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Turkey chili is one of my favorite fall recipes. This one specifically is great for feeding a crowd or a hands-off approach to meal prep. It’s also very customizable—with options for swapping out the protein or toppings—so you can make it multiple times throughout the fall without getting sick of it.

18. Beef Bourguignon

This beef bourguignon recipe is cozy, hearty, and surprisingly easy to make since your slow cooker does most of the work for you. While this dish is traditionally made with red wine, this recipe calls for a half-cup of 100 percent pomegranate juice for a similarly rich (but booze-free) taste.

19. Healthy Apple Butter

Anything apple-flavored is always one of my favorite fall luxuries, and this crockpot apple butter recipe makes it easy to savor that sweet, natural apple flavor. Requiring only six ingredients, it makes a delicious spread to pair with toast, pancakes, oatmeal, or even chicken!

20. Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken soup is the ultimate comfort meal, and this homemade recipe packs all the heart and soul of the classic chicken noodle but with far less effort. You can also store it in the freezer for up to four months, so you can stay stocked up on cozy goodness during those colder months.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Madigan Will, Assistant Editor

As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Madigan writes and edits content for every topic under the digital media sun. As the oldest of four siblings, she enjoys utilizing her big sister persona to connect and inspire readers—helping them discover new ways to maximize their everyday.

READ MADIGAN’S FULL BIO

The post 20 Fall Crockpot Recipes to Cozy Up With This Season appeared first on The Everygirl.

When I was a teenager, nothing made me happier than seeing the amount in my bank account increase. I felt proud that working my little hostessing job was enough to help build my savings and pay for gas in my car. Unsurprisingly, I’ve taken this predisposition to save more and not overspend with me into adulthood. And according to TikTok, I’m not the only one. Lately, my FYP has been flooded with users proclaiming they’re “addicted to saving money,” saying that doing so gives them just as much of a dopamine rush as spending would.

As a natural saver, I was initially on board with this, namely because it seemed to champion healthy money habits. Yet after diving deeper, I’ve learned that experts believe this addiction can be just as harmful as overspending. But why, exactly, could focusing on big savings do more harm than good? And is it even possible to find the perfect balance between saving and spending? I asked experts to explain.

Ahead, everything you need to know about what it means to be addicted to saving money, including key signs of this addiction and how it can backfire, as well as tips to find the sweet spot between saving and spending.

MEET THE EXPERT

Robinson Torres

Robinson Torres is the Lead Financial Expert at Cleo. With over a decade of experience working directly with individuals and couples, Rob Torres specializes in helping people improve their financial habits, confidence, and build lasting skills that empower them to reach their goals. He is also an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC®) and a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI®).

MEET THE EXPERT

Ben Markley

Ben Markley is a personal finance educator and host of Sketchy Advice by YNAB. Ben is a trusted voice on money trends as seen in Fast Company and CBS, and leverages his experience as a former teacher to break down complex financial topics in a way that’s both entertaining and easy to understand.

What does it mean to be addicted to saving money?

Being addicted to saving money doesn’t mean you’re savvy with budgeting. Rather, it means that choosing to save instead of spending money gives you a major hit of dopamine. This, in essence, is the same feeling of elation you might experience after exercising, having an orgasm, or making a large purchase. With this addiction, watching the balance in your account grow and your credit card bills dwindle gives you a thrill unlike any other.

What are the key signs of this addiction?

Obviously, someone who’s addicted to saving money will penny-pinch. However, they’ll do this in a way that defies logic. There isn’t a rhyme or reason to their spending because they’re solely focused on saving as much as possible. “Someone addicted to saving money might (literally) go the extra mile to save on gas, spend hours comparing prices, or try to learn plumbing instead of hiring a professional in order to maintain their savings progress,” Personal Finance Expert and host of Sketchy Advice by YNAB on YouTube, Ben Markley, explained.

Furthermore, Lead Financial Expert at AI financial assistant Cleo, Robinson Torres, says this addiction also manifests emotionally. Similar to the post-purchase regret captured in this TikTok video, someone with this addiction typically feels guilty or anxious after buying things they need and can afford. Because they equate their self-worth with their net worth, witnessing even a slight dip in their bank account is enough to set off a chain reaction of negative and uncomfortable emotions. Additionally, other key signs include declining invitations to try and save more and obsessively checking your bank account, according to Torres.

Why being addicted to saving money can do more harm than good

To be perfectly clear, we all want to have more money in the bank, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with being strategic and saving wisely. But being addicted to saving money isn’t what’s going to help you do this. Instead, it keeps you rooted in a scarce mindset of greed, where no amount of money will ever be enough. When this happens, Markley says that spending money on anything, including things that would improve your life, is practically impossible because you’re so fixated on the numbers.

“When you’re addicted to saving money, you can’t relish eating a stadium hot dog at a baseball game or buying a t-shirt at a concert because you’re more concerned with the cost than the experience itself.”

Needless to say, this makes it damn-near impossible to enjoy the fruits of your labor, or anything else in life, for that matter. When you’re addicted to saving money, you can’t relish eating a stadium hot dog at a baseball game or buying a t-shirt at a concert because you’re more concerned with the cost than the experience itself. TikToker Bradley on a Budget, explains that he even struggles with being able to enjoy gifts he receives, since his instict is to regift it to save money. Every decision in your life revolves around money when you get to this point, Torres says—which ultimately undermines your quality of life. Someone who’s addicted to saving money can’t relinquish control and let themselves relax and have fun.

How to become more balanced with spending and saving

Whether you’re a natural saver or have a predisposition to spend, the bottom line is that we can all benefit from becoming more balanced with money. There is a sweet spot between spending and saving responsibly. Here’s how to find it:

Don’t make every decision solely based on cost

Contrary to popular belief, spending strategically doesn’t always mean writing something off or buying it based on price alone. Rather, it means evaluating all angles—from price to quality, experience, and what you can afford—and using that information to make a purchase decision. An overseas trip with the girls might not offer a ton of ROI, but it will give you memories you can’t put a monetary value on. So if you can afford to go without spreading yourself too thin, it is perfectly OK to do so. “An expense doesn’t have to make sense on paper to be a great decision for your life,” Markley emphasized.

Track your finances every month

It’s easy to use the total on your credit card and whether your bank account balance is going up or down as measuring sticks for financial well-being, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The reality is that our spending varies by some degree every month; you might spend more if you’re attending multiple weddings, have a lot of birthdays in your family, and so forth. However, keeping track of where your money is going monthly can help you stay focused on your financial habits and make you feel more in control of your finances.

Luckily, there are tons of ways you can do this. You can use a monthly budget planner, track your finances in Excel, or even use an AI financial app like Cleo. Regardless of how you choose to do this, knowing what’s causing an increase or decrease in your spending will be reassuring. Better yet, it’ll reinforce healthy money habits and get you acquainted with the ebb and flow of money.

Create savings boundaries

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that money is fleeting—especially when the cost of living requires spending your money as soon as you make it—but this mentality is toxic. It creates a scarcity mindset that encourages hoarding every possible penny. You become so obsessed with building your bank account that you forget how to enjoy well-deserved indulgences, like going to the movies or getting ice cream.

To combat this, Markley recommends setting savings goals that indicate you’ve saved “enough.” This might be saving enough to cover six months’ worth of expenses, a new work setup, and so forth. According to Markley, the idea behind this is to shift your focus away from the numbers and give you a sense of accomplishment. More importantly, it reinforces boundaries with saving, so you can enjoy some of your money once you reach those goals.

Remember that you control money—not the other way around

Lastly, it’s important to recognize that money doesn’t control you. You’re the one in the driver’s seat with your finances. Money is merely the vehicle to help you live the life you want. Embracing this mentality will help you view money as the tool it is.

When it comes down to it, being “good” with money doesn’t mean compulsively saving or overspending because you feel like it. It means recognizing that “the value of money isn’t money itself but what it can offer you,” according to Markley. The last thing you want is to look back on your life and wish you had enjoyed it more. So while we all have to live within our means, it is perfectly OK to enjoy the fruits of your labor, so long as your bills are paid. If we can do that, our finances (and our lives) will be all the better for it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Arianna Reardon, Contributing Writer

Arianna is a freelance writer and journalist, and the self-proclaimed hot and dirty martini queen. At The Everygirl, Arianna uses her authenticity and relatability to empower, inspire, and motivate women everywhere. Whether she’s writing about sex and relationships, career and finance, beauty and fashion, wellness, or home and living, Arianna’s passion shines through in all her work.

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The post People Are Becoming Addicted to This “Smart” Financial Habit—And Experts Are Worried appeared first on The Everygirl.

I like to board a flight like I’m going on a camping trip. I’m prepared for every possible scenario, with everything I need for survival neatly organized on my person. You won’t catch me running out of snacks or realizing mid-flight that I forgot my headphones. I’ve got my personal item packing strategy down to a science, and it makes navigating airports and passing the time on long flights so much more seamless. From travel-friendly toiletries to handy gadgets for in-flight entertainment, I’ve learned exactly what deserves a coveted spot in that under-the-seat space.

If you’re struggling with what to pack in your personal item, allow me to give you a peek inside mine. Here are all the personal item essentials I always pack for a smooth flight.

1. Tote bag insert

I purchased this tote bag insert several years ago after seeing it in an article on The Everygirl (co-workers make the best influencers) and have used it on every trip since. It completely changed how I pack my personal item and makes everything 10x more organized. Thanks to the multitude of pockets, all those little essentials (like lip balm, hand sanitizer, and my passport) have a designated spot and are easy to access. No more blindly rummaging around at the bottom of my tote bag whenever I need something.

Amazon

Tote Bag Organizer Insert

10+ colors available

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2. Water bottle

My first order of business when I get through security? Filling up my water bottle. Thanks to the dry airplane cabin air, staying hydrated is an even bigger challenge than usual. I always travel with my Owala because it’s big enough to fit a decent amount of water but compact enough that I can easily slip it into my personal item. Plus, the leak-proof lid means I’m not worried about spills ruining my travel day.

Owala

FreeSip 24oz Water Bottle

10+ colors available

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3. Noise-cancelling headphones

Even if you don’t happen to be seated near a screaming baby or an overly chatty passenger, airplanes are noisy. During flights, I wear these over-ear headphones constantly, even if I’m not listening to anything at all. The noise-cancelling function helps dampen the sound of the engine (and any noisy fellow travelers), which helps me feel way calmer and more relaxed in the air. Plus, headphones are a universal sign for “do not disturb,” and for that, these earn a must-pack spot in my personal item.

Amazon

JLab Noise-Canceling Headphones

4 colors available

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4. Medications

Bringing your necessary medications when you travel is a no-brainer, but I would caution against packing them in your carry-on. I’ve been separated from my luggage enough times in life to know that medications belong as close to my person as possible. I always keep a pill container of my daily vitamins and medications—plus emergency meds like pain relievers and Tums—in my personal item. That way, I can stick to my usual dosage schedule even if I’m in the air, and I won’t have to panic if my luggage doesn’t make it to my destination.

Amazon

Travel Pill Organizer

5 colors available

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5. Hand sanitizer

Planes are incredibly germy places, so hand sanitizer is an absolute must. I love this Touchland option because it is super gentle on my hands (sensitive skin girlies know the struggle) and has a light, soothing scent. The shape of the bottle also means it fits easily into a pocket in my personal item without adding any bulk.

Touchland

Gentle Mist Ultra-Soothing Hand Sanitizer

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6. Bluetooth audio transmitter

Seatback screens are unfortunately not a given on all planes, but if my flight has them, I’m pulling out this handy little gadget. It plugs into the headphone jack and allows you to connect via Bluetooth to your headphones of choice, so you don’t have to rely on the cheap, uncomfortable earbuds the flight attendants hand out if you want to watch an in-flight movie.

Twelve South

AirFly Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

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7. Kindle

I’ve been known to devour an entire book on a single flight, so packing enough reading material for an entire trip would be impossible without my Kindle. I can download as many books as I want, then read to my heart’s content without the need for in-flight Wi-Fi. I also love that I don’t have to turn on the overhead light if I’m reading on an overnight flight. And since it’s way slimmer than the books I usually read, the size is much more convenient for slipping into a tote bag.

Amazon

Kindle Paperwhite

3 colors available

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8. Portable charger

There’s nothing worse than boarding a flight with dangerously low phone battery, only to find that there is no USB outlet in sight. For long days of travel and plenty of refreshes of your airline app and Google Maps, you’ll need a full battery and a portable charger. This one is super handy because it comes with built-in cables that can plug directly into your device, so you don’t need to deal with extra cords. About the same size as a credit card, it’s also super slim, so it packs easily.

Amazon

Ultra Slim Portable Power Bank

10 colors available

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9. Tech organizer

Between my phone, portable charger, laptop, Kindle, and headphones, I travel with a lot of charging cables. So to avoid a tangled web of cords, I use a tech organizer to keep all my chargers neat, tidy, and accessible. This one from Calpak has elastic loops for cords, plenty of pockets, and a handle so it’s easy to fish out of my tote. 

CALPAK

Tech Organizer

6 colors available

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10. Lightweight layer

Planes are either uncomfortably warm or arctic-level cold, and there is no in-between. You’re on your own when it’s balmy, but for times when the hairs on my arms are standing up and my teeth are near-chattering, I always pack a button-down or a lightweight sweatshirt that folds and rolls easily. Even if I don’t use it for that purpose, I’ll end up using it as a makeshift travel pillow.

Old Navy

Fleece Half-Zip Pullover Sweatshirt

8 colors available

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11. Hydrating eye mask

I am famously terrible at sleeping anywhere but my own bed, so napping on a plane is next to impossible. But when I want to look well-rested and refreshed upon arrival, I slap on one of these under-eye masks to help with dark circles and puffiness. It’s not the same as getting eight hours of sleep, but it’s a little ritual I like to do before landing to help me feel more awake and ready to take on my new destination.

grace & stella

Energizing Under Eye Masks

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jessica Friedhoff, Senior Lifestyle Editor

Jessica Friedhoff is the Senior Lifestyle Editor at The Everygirl, where she oversees the Home & Living category of the site. She writes and edits stories across a broad range of topics including decorating, food, entertaining, travel, and more. With a pulse on the latest trends, she uses her eye for detail and design to create timely, inspiring content for our readers.

READ JESSICA’S FULL BIO

The post What’s in My Bag: 11 Personal Item Essentials I Never Fly Without appeared first on The Everygirl.

One thing I thought I’d avoid by being in a committed relationship with another woman? The classic “Is it that time of the month?” jab when I cry over a TikTok or start a fight about the fridge’s water filter. But my girlfriend’s least favorite animal is me the week before my period. And like clockwork, the question always comes up.

My brand of PMS—bloating, mood swings, and breast tenderness—has me dodging plans like it’s my full-time job and boycotting bras like they’re committing human rights violations (TBH, they might be). And I’ve spent years trying to outsmart it all with heating pads, supplements, and wishful thinking. This month, I’m switching things up. I’m giving OLLY’s new Period Hero gummies a try and hoping they live up to the name.

Why I’m Adding OLLY Period Hero to My Routine

OLLY girls, IYKYK. I’ve been tossing their Multi gummies into my cart on every drugstore run for years. And now, my daily multivitamin has a cute new sidekick.

What I’ve always appreciated about OLLY is how straightforward their products are: real ingredients, clean formulations, and no weird aftertaste. Period Hero is no different. It’s made with a blend of Chasteberry, Vitamin B6, and Calcium to support common PMS symptoms like bloating, mood swings, and breast tenderness.*

I like that I can take them daily to stay ahead of PMS instead of scrambling mid-meltdown. Just two gummies a day, and they fit right into my existing routine. And while I usually can’t stand gummies that taste overly sweet or artificial, these have a cran-raspberry flavor that’s actually balanced and enjoyable.

OLLY

Period Hero Gummies

With chasteberry for hormonal balance, vitamin B6 for mood support, and calcium for physical discomfort!

Shop now

What’s In Period Hero (and How It Supports PMS Symptoms)

The ingredients in Period Hero aren’t buzzy or just there for show; they’re research-backed and commonly recommended by experts for managing monthly symptoms. Here are the heavy hitters and why they work:

Chasteberry (also known as Vitex)

This herbal extract has been used for centuries to support hormonal balance. It’s particularly helpful in easing breast tenderness, which many people experience during the second half of their cycle. Studies show Chasteberry works by supporting healthy levels of prolactin, a hormone linked to breast discomfort and other PMS symptoms.*

Vitamin B6 and Calcium

These two nutrients are some of the most widely studied when it comes to PMS support. Vitamin B6 plays a role in producing neurotransmitters that influence mood, including serotonin, which is why it’s often used to help ease occasional mood swings and irritability.* And calcium has been shown to support the body’s natural response to bloating and physical discomfort during your cycle.

How I’m Using It to Support My Cycle

Lately, I’ve been trying to take a gentler, more intentional approach to my cycle—not with a complete lifestyle overhaul, but with small habits that help me feel a little more supported throughout the month. Adding OLLY Period Hero to my routine felt like one of those simple shifts.

I’m not expecting instant results or a total transformation, but starting before symptoms hit just makes sense. I’m giving my body tools to work with way ahead of time (you’re welcome, future me). And rather than cutting things out or trying to “fix” myself during my cycle, I’m focusing on what I can add to feel better.

How to Use OLLY Period Hero

Each bottle of Period Hero contains 60 gummies, or a 30-day supply. You just take two a day, ideally as part of your regular wellness routine. Like I said, the cran-raspberry flavor is delish, and the soft texture makes them easy to take without that chalky vitamin feel.

Other Things That Help Me Feel Better During PMS

Everyone’s cycle looks different, but here are a few gentle changes I’ve been leaning into lately:

• Starting the day with warm lemon water
• Swapping intense workouts for a walk or yoga when I’m feeling drained
• Taking magnesium before bed to help with sleep and tension
• Saying no to plans I don’t have the energy for (without guilt)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paige Cushman, Branded Content Editor

From small community newspapers to country music marketing, Paige has found the most fulfillment in finding and sharing the uniquely human stories that compel an audience. As a Branded Content Editor at The Everygirl, she is able to combine her excitement about women’s issues and pop culture with her editorial skills to create quality content for our brand partners.

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This post is sponsored by OLLY but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The post My Luteal Phase Always Takes Me Out—Here’s How I’m Trying to Fix That appeared first on The Everygirl.

Oral sex may seem self-explanatory, and for the most part, I suppose it is. While it can be great as foreplay or as the standalone event of an evening (or any time of day, let’s be real), it may seem like there’s not much to say beyond the typical mouth-to-genital stimulation we know all too well. A lot of us (myself included) exist somewhere in the dichotomy between either loving oral stimulation or not quite getting the hype. In fact, I’ve heard countless reports from folks who consider giving and receiving head to be, quite frankly, boring after a while. But would you believe me if I said it didn’t have to be that way with the help of the right oral sex tips?

Multiple steamy AF oral sex tips can help elevate it and keep it from falling flat in the moment. Whether you consider yourself a pro or would like to shake up the same-old-same-old, learning new oral sex tips, techniques, and options will always prove to be beneficial. Ahead, we’re getting into five ways that you and a partner can try to elevate your oral game next time you’re in the mood.

1. Change up your position

Sex positions aren’t just for penetration. Mixing up something as simple as how your bodies are oriented in space may be the ticket to a little extra spice in your oral game. You’ve likely heard of or experienced the classic positions. For example, if the partner receiving has a vagina, a go-to tends to have them lying on their back with legs spread, which I affectionately call the missionary of oral sex. Another classic option is hovering over or sitting on the giver’s face. If the receiving partner has a penis, it’s most typical to see them standing while the giver kneels in front of them or lying on their back, similarly to missionary.

Things often become standard for a reason. In this case, the reason is that they work, but it can be fun to experiment with different positions. By doing this, you can enhance and change the sensations, angles, and visuals you typically experience when going down on your partner. If this interests you but you don’t know where to start, have no fear. Check out these examples of oral sex positions to try! But remember, the best position is the one that feels good to you and your partner, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

2. Add sex toys

I will shout the praises of sex toys every chance I get, and oral sex is no different. Getting a little toy action involved during head is a wonderful way to shake up the pace and play with an entirely new sensory element. On partners with a vagina, toys can be used for clitoral, vaginal, and nipple stimulation to enhance and complement what’s already happening with the tongue and fingers. On partners with a penis, using a typical vibrator can take a bit more creativity (but can still up the pleasure game)! While they make toys specifically for penises, simply placing a vibrator at the base of the shaft can add an intense sensation to enhance the licking, sucking, or bobbing motions you’ve already got going on.

Asking your partner to use a toy on you while you go down on them can make the experience even more pleasurable for both parties. They get to watch you feel good while you make them feel good. It’s truly a winning situation all around! If you have a favorite sex toy in your rotation already, try it out. Or, use it as an excuse to try a new one. Trust me when I say that you can never have too many.

3. Make some noise

I don’t just mean moans of pleasure or words of affirmation for your partner—though you should totally let them know what is and isn’t working for you! I’m talking about humming. I’m talking about whispers. Making noise during oral stimulation can mimic the vibrations of a toy, but feels—dare I say—hotter? Audible exclamations of enjoyment from both partners can deepen your connection and remind you that your partner enjoys making you feel good.

When I can tell that my partner is into what he’s doing, it helps me relax and give in to the pleasurable sensations instead of getting too deep in my head. It also feels damn amazing. Another tip is to ask your partner to tell you when they’re approaching climax and hum or moan through it with them. It will heighten their pleasure and encourage them to reach that oh-so-good peak… and it will likely turn you on more, too.

4. Incorporate eye contact

There is something so erotic and deep about looking into each other’s eyes while giving or receiving oral sex. So try glancing at your partner every now and then or holding eye contact for a little bit of a sexy tease to let them know you’re enjoying it. This can make the experience so much more intimate, heighten your awareness, and keep you in the present moment—all of which can lead to an orgasm. Plus, looking at your partner helps you gauge whether you should take things up a notch or slow down as the giver, depending on how comfortable or into it they seem. Trust us, even a little bit of eye contact can turn good oral sex into toe-curling oral sex in no time.

5. Play with temperature and texture

Heat up your oral sex by cooling things down a bit! Drinking some ice water or holding an ice cube in your mouth immediately before going down on your partner will produce a tingling sensation in a thrilling and amazing way. You can even experiment with warm water for the opposite effect. This is a great way to begin exploring kink if that’s something you’re interested in! I’ve often heard of people using honey and whipped cream to play with texture and flavor; however, I recommend always going for a flavored lube instead. Food products can mess with PH balances—burning and itching sensations are no fun. Flavored lube can provide that sticky, slippery sensation without any concern of infection later! I’m all for oral sex tips that maximize pleasure and thrill with maximum safety.

6. Be a tease

Start slow and really savor the experience. Teasing can be deeply intimate, and IMO there is nothing sexier than anticipation. Starting with their neck, work your way down to their chest, stomach, and thighs (or any erogenous zone) in slow motion. Kiss, lick, and suck everywhere except exactly where they want you to. Use your fingers and toys (whatever works for you and your partner) to deliberately bring your partner to the brink of desire. This will heighten the pleasurable sensations once you finally make contact with the penis or the clitoris.

Breath is also an amazing tool when it comes to teasing. Allowing your kisses and warm breath to sustain the sense of anticipation around your partner’s most sensitive areas will drive them crazy in the best way. You may also want to work edging into your oral routine to make that eventual release 10x more euphoric.

7. Add lube

As mentioned before, lube isn’t just used for penetration. There are lubes that are specifically created for oral sex because incorporating them can make the experience more pleasurable for both partners. While good ‘ole saliva will always be the blueprint, it isn’t always as reliable as we’d like it to be for the giver. Whether it’s just a case of dry mouth from the giver or vaginal dryness, incorporating lube makes stimulation more consistent and smooth. Our recommendation? Grab a few different flavored lubes and keep them in rotation. Cake flavored? Watermelon? Vanilla? Mint? Who knows, it might just become the oral sex non-negotiable you didn’t know you needed.

8. Use your hands

Oral sex typically involves, well, your mouth. But if you’re not also using your hands, you’re missing out. Both the giver and receiver can use their hands or fingers in unison with the mouth to produce even more pleasure. Try stimulating the clitoris and the vagina at the same time, or using a hand at the base of the penis while also using your mouth. You can also use your hands to grab a toy, or tease erogenous zones like the nipples, nape of the neck, or inner thighs. The possibilities are endless when you’re hands-free, so talk to your partner about how to incorporate them for even more pleasure.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sydney Cox, Contributing Writer

Sydney Cox is a Chicago-based writer and intimacy coordinator who is passionate about exploring the complexities of human connections and teaching readers to advocate for themselves. Sydney’s work has been featured in various publications, where they aim to foster open and honest conversations.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jenna Piotrowicz, Editorial Assistant

Jenna began working as an Editorial Assistant for The Everygirl in 2024. With her eye for detail, she assists the team with content creation, sourcing products and images, and works behind the scenes to support The Everygirl in uploading and updating content.

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The post 8 Oral Sex Techniques That Instantly Increase Pleasure appeared first on The Everygirl.

When it comes to movies, I’m easy to please. Give me an engaging story and a great soundtrack, and most of the time I’ll give it five stars. By no means am I a film critic. That being said, I do try to stay on top of what I call “Movies with a capital M.” Ones that are more artistic, awards season standouts, or any flick that might prompt a true cinephile to say, “What?! You haven’t seen insert obscure title here?!”

Film bro jokes aside, I think it’s worth recognizing that not every movie is made with the mainstream in mind. I like it when a film focuses more on character development than hitting every plot point, or it makes me think deeper about what it’s trying to say. To me, nobody illustrates that idea better than Sofia Coppola. She may be one of the most famous female directors and the ultimate nepo baby, but her filmmaking style is much more subtle. I love the ways she portrays complex family relationships and strong female characters (more often than not played by Kirsten Dunst). I also know that her aesthetic visuals and simple scripts will hit almost every time.

So which of Sofia Coppola’s movies is actually the best? With the exception of Bill Murray’s Christmas special, she’s written and directed eight feature-length projects all by herself. To rank her catalog as a writer-director powerhouse, I took it upon myself to watch (or rewatch) them all. Without further ado, here are my reviews:

8. The Bling Ring

It’s fun in theory that this movie is based on a Vanity Fair article from 2010, but after watching, I was left thinking that not every piece of media needs an adaptation. The Bling Ring is so painfully 2013 and is very different from every other Sofia Coppola movie. It looks like one big Instagram filter, and a good 75 percent of the runtime follows the teenage ensemble breaking into celebrities’ houses and going to parties. It just got old after a while! We hardly got to know anything about the characters beyond their robbing and clubbing. Maybe that was the point: a shallow movie about shallow people, but it just wasn’t enough to make it worth watching.

7. On the Rocks

The premise of a woman enlisting her playboy father to help her catch her husband cheating makes this movie sound like a screwball comedy, especially when Bill Murray’s in the cast. But screwball isn’t Sofia Coppola’s style. On the Rocks is much more muted, in terms of both its humor and its looks. As Rashida Jones’ character’s doubts about her marriage take over her life, we’re taken on an interesting emotional journey. But in comparison, the father-daughter dynamic falls flat. While the ending of this one kept it from the bottom of my list, it ultimately didn’t stick out to me as much as the others.

6. The Beguiled

This Gothic thriller is a remake of a 1971 film and an adaptation of the original book from the ‘60s. The Beguiled has just about everything I could ask for in a movie. It’s romantic, suspenseful, character-driven, and has a few tricks up its sleeve. The problem is, I wish there were a little more of everything. Only in the last half hour do things really “get interesting.” I’m not sure if this was Sofia Coppola’s way of differentiating her version of the story from the original adaptation, but I would’ve liked to see more of a build-up. Even so, I still enjoy movies that take a “slice of life” approach to storytelling. Just be warned that the slow pace might not be for everyone.

5. Somewhere

I have to be honest: I hated the first 15 minutes of this movie and was prepared to write it off completely, but by the end, I had done a total 180. Sofia Coppola relies on a lot of her usual tricks and tropes—a celebrity protagonist who has everything he could ever want but still isn’t happy, and the unconventional relationships that arise. But even after noticing the structural similarities to her other movies, I still found myself drawn into the world of Somewhere. The father-daughter dynamic between Stephen Dorff and Elle Fanning’s characters felt so genuine, and everyone should watch this one for themselves.

4. The Virgin Suicides

Based on Bret Easton Ellis’s novel of the same name, The Virgin Suicides is Sofia Coppola’s directorial debut. I found out this detail toward the end of my watch and was shocked. Knowing that so many trademarks of her work are present right from the start of her career makes me marvel at her distinct directorial style even more. My one gripe with this movie is the way it tells the Lisbon sisters’ stories. It’s told by boys from their neighborhood who barely knew them, rather than the girls themselves. I know this was a purposeful choice and that my anger would be better directed at the book than the movie, though. I don’t think I’d ever rewatch or read the original source material because, as the title suggests, it’s not the most upbeat story. But since the movie was a well-made debut, I still ranked it higher on the list.

3. Lost in Translation

Don’t come for me: I’d seen this one a few years ago, and I didn’t get it. But now that I’ve rewatched it, I’ve seen the error of my ways. Parts of this movie haven’t aged well, but other parts feel timeless. I love it when comedic actors take on dramatic roles, and Bill Murray knocks it out of the park. Every conversation he has with Scarlett Johansson’s character feels so natural. What I think drives Lost in Translation is a longing to be understood—both literally, since the characters are in a foreign country where they don’t speak the language, and emotionally. It reminds us that sometimes the best love stories are only temporary, something that haunts me in real life, but I love seeing it so much in movies.

2. Marie Antoinette

Out of the movies I hadn’t seen before curating this list, this one was my favorite. Once again, Sofia Coppola is portraying a misunderstood female protagonist (or historical figure, in this case). But while watching Marie Antoinette, I realized she also likes to portray young women who are starved for connection, and burdened by expectations that—try as they might—they can’t always reach. The real Marie Antoinette was only 14 years old when she was married off to the future king of France, and I loved the choices that were made to remind the viewer of her age, from the infamous Converse shot to the stilted dialogue between Marie and her husband. This movie is just as lavish as you’d expect—and yes, it was actually filmed at Versailles.

1. Priscilla

I had a feeling this movie would take the number one spot because of how much I loved it after seeing it in theaters…multiple times. Dare I say Jacob Elordi was a better Elvis than Austin Butler? There’s a scene around the halfway point that I think captures the central conflict of this movie. It’s a montage of Elvis, Priscilla, and their friends rollerskating, drinking milkshakes, and doing all the things we’d now consider stereotypical of the ‘60s. Elvis is at his prime, young, and in love. With the dreamy lighting and romantic soundtrack, it’s hard for viewers not to fall in love with him, too. But that picture-perfect image is completely different from what was happening behind closed doors. This movie is all about how love isn’t always enough, especially when you lose yourself in the process. I swear, I tried to give every movie on this list a fair shot at the top, but Priscilla still deserves it most.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hannah Carapellotti, Contributing Writer

Hannah is an Ann Arbor-based writer with a bachelor’s in English and writing from the University of Michigan. Outside of The Everygirl, Hannah has written for The Michigan Daily, where she also served as an editor. She currently works at an independent bookstore and is interning for a literary agency.

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The post I Watched Every Sofia Coppola Movie—Here’s How They Rank appeared first on The Everygirl.

“Just swing and let go,” my friend yelled from the rippling Hawaiian waters below as I stood gripping the knotted rope from a tree above. An audience of two waited in anticipation with a phone raised to capture the moment as the countdown began. “Three! Two! One…” they shouted in unison. I couldn’t stop the flood of thoughts that came pouring in: Will I drown? Were my lessons sufficient? Should I just resort to the shallow end of the waterfall and call it a day? If my thoughts were somehow projected above my head for all to see, my friends below would have been very confused. Little did they know that the 22-year-old woman standing on the cliff, getting ready to swing off into the deep, vast pool of water below, had just learned how to properly swim about two months ago.

Before I took lessons, swimming was one of those things that I just didn’t do much when the occasion arose. I would get into the shallow ends of pools or step into oceans, but only if I had the reassurance of a life vest or floaties nearby. Sometimes, I would venture into deeper parts of confined water, but my doggy paddling could only take me so far until I quickly paddled back to the safety ledge of the pool. I didn’t think much of my subtle, unexplored fear until a ripple of events revealed that it stemmed from something much deeper, and that learning how to swim would be the only way to confront it.

Why I decided to learn how to swim

Years prior, on a family beach trip to Florida, I indulged in reading, snacking, and dilly-dallying in the water, and my mom lounged in the shade and listened to music, only venturing ankle-deep into the water. “Why don’t you come try boogie-boarding with me and Tristen?” I asked her as my younger brother and I started to wrap our tethers around our ankles. Boogie-boarding was one of the few activities that my little brother and I felt comfortable doing in open water, considering we had the comfort of a flotation device, and the activity only allowed us to go waist-deep. My mom, after a reluctant back-and-forth exchange, finally exhaled and said, “Aaliyah, I can’t swim.”

“After taking a hard look at the root causes of a fear that has affected generations of my community, I was determined to let that fear end with me.”

Her confession didn’t concern me initially. It stayed filed away in my mind until I became interested in learning to surf, as any California-living girl does. Ironically, I signed up for surf lessons before swim lessons. But about two weeks into the course, I noticed my inexperience was restricting me. As I stayed near the shore with one of the surf instructors and a few other students who also weren’t comfortable going deeper into the water, I felt a twinge of jealousy toward the classmates who didn’t share my concerns. My mom’s confession, coupled with this brewing jealousy, would soon provide me with two out of three reasons why I decided to click the register button for weekly swim classes a year later. The third reason stemmed from what I learned about how our shared fear was actually generational.

Where my fear of swimming stems from

This is a reality for many Black Americans. According to CNN, one in three Black adults say they can’t swim. When you first look at this statistic, you might think that it’s out of disinterest in the activity itself. If Black Americans wanted to learn how to swim, then they just would. When I think of the day my mom defeatedly admitted that she couldn’t swim, I know that it wasn’t due to a lack of desire. It was due to the environment and the generation in which she grew up. Those with melanated skin were confronted with hardship, trauma, and unspeakable horrors when it came to swimming.

To better understand the ubiquitous fear amongst me and my family, I dove into Black history. I learned that the origins were in the Atlantic slave trade, when my ancestors were forced to leave their homeland for the sole purpose of exploitation. During this voyage, thousands of bodies were crammed onto ships for weeks and subjected to famine and disease. Many slaves decided that the horrors awaiting them on the other side of the ocean were worse than death. Often, they decided to starve themselves, conspicuously obtain weapons to end their lives, or jump into the crashing waves below them to avoid their fate.

“When I think of the day my mom defeatedly admitted that she couldn’t swim, I knew that it wasn’t due to a lack of desire. It was due to the environment and generation in which she grew up in…”

When I learned more about this time in history, I erroneously assumed that Black people never had any pleasant experiences with open water. Therefore, it was never in the cards for us to have the same relationship to water as other demographics had. However, what I didn’t learn in my history classes was that there are recollections of Black individuals being excellent swimmers when they had the rare luxury to enjoy the open water. For example, Yarrow Mamout, a freed slave, was known as the best swimmer to grace the Potomac River. The relevance of this information may appear trivial to others, but knowing this was crucial to eradicating the cycle of a long-standing fear.

How this generational trauma impacts me today

As much as we want to believe that Black trauma and fear in America should be cured by now because “it happened so long ago,” it doesn’t erase the reality that history is still influencing behaviors today. Many individuals are still alive who witnessed prejudice, discrimination, and cruelty because of the color of their skin. As someone who has living, breathing great-great-grandparents who were born just shy of the 1920s and ’40s swimming pool boom, I couldn’t deny its relevance to my quest to understand the fear that was passed down to me.

The demand for pools in the ’40s prompted them to be built in poor, immigrant, and working-class white neighborhoods. Those in predominantly Black areas, however, saw a disproportionate lack of swimming pool access (or none at all). Out of fear, influenced by unsensible stereotypes, predominantly white areas started to segregate their municipal pools. So when the Highland Park swimming pool in Pittsburgh officially opened its doors in 1931, Black swimmers were viciously attacked and harassed. “If they made it into the water, they were oftentimes beaten, dunked, and punched in the water,” Dr. Jeff Wiltse, author of Contested Waters: A Social History of Swimming Pools in America, said in a 2008 NPR interview.

“Although I didn’t see any other faces that looked like mine, I felt like I was making a small ripple in the chain that could inspire others like me to exist in this environment.”

This only scratches the surface of the hate and brutality that Black individuals had to face—and the trauma that still affects us today. After taking a hard look at the root causes of a fear that has affected generations of my community, I was determined to let that fear end with me. So, I opened my laptop and signed up for my very first swim lesson at my university.

How swimming lessons helped me confront my trauma

“Now let’s go in a circle and talk about the reasons you all want to take this class,” my swim instructor said, as a group of seven adults circled her. I was relieved that there were more adults than I had expected, and that the swim instructor, who was also a college student, was warm and inviting. Although I didn’t see any other faces that looked like mine, I felt like I was making a small ripple in the chain that could inspire others like me to exist in this environment. The responses varied: “I want to be more comfortable in the water. I want to be able to swim at the beach without anxiety. I want a new form of exercise.” As for me, I wanted to contribute to a new statistic. A statistic that shows a growing number of Black swimmers. 

“I didn’t sign up for swim classes to stay in my comfort zone. I came to confront a legacy of trauma.”

I signed up for two swim classes a week for the next two months. In the first few classes, we learned basic swim techniques—the front crawl, butterfly stroke, and breast stroke—as well as breathing techniques. Learning these techniques felt empowering, and I picked up on them quickly despite my initial nerves. Eventually, as the classes progressed, we ventured into the deep end, where we were provided with floaties to help us with our kicks. When I decided to relinquish my floatie and brave the full length of the pool, I felt a mix of excitement and concern—excitement for the new skills I was mastering and concern that I miscalculated my readiness. I was worried that I would struggle and embarrass myself in front of the other adults, but I then reminded myself why I was doing this in the first place: I didn’t sign up for swim classes to stay in my comfort zone. I came to confront a legacy of trauma.

When the instructor gave us the green light to swim the full length of the pool, two other classmates and I pushed off the pool’s wall and began to swim. At the halfway point, for the first time, I kept going instead of turning around. I didn’t feel my typical wave of panic from not having the reassurance of a nearby floatie or the ability to easily plant my feet. Instead, a wave of calmness I had never experienced before settled. My arms and legs sliced and kicked through the water, my head breaching the surface every few strokes to take a deep inhale. Before I knew it, I approached the wall and gripped its ledge for support as I caught my breath and watched the two other students do the same.

Later in Hawaii, when I finally let go of the rope and swung from the cliff into the body of water below me, there was a moment of silence as my head went underneath the water. My body felt weightless, as a galaxy of bubbles surrounded me. When my head broke the surface, my body automatically did what it’d been taught two months prior: swim. I felt empowered. I was doing the very thing that invoked fear in many of those around me. It felt like I was reclaiming something that was stripped away. It felt liberating, and I finally felt free.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Aaliyah Alexander, Contributing Writer

Aaliyah is a writer, content creator, and blogger based in Brandon, Mississippi. She attended San Diego State University where she received a degree in journalism and worked as an editor for the award-winning student newspaper, The Daily Aztec. Aaliyah covers a range of topics including slow living, her favorite vegan food spots, minimalism, self-growth, and entertainment.

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Feature graphic images credited to: Larbigno | Pexels, StockRojoVerdeyAzul | Adobe Stock, Towani Mutale | Dupe, Adrian Funk | Adobe Stock

The post I Learned to Swim at 22—Here’s How It Helped Me Heal Black Generational Trauma appeared first on The Everygirl.

For those of you who aren’t immersed in the Taylor Swift world, it might feel like there’s always groundbreaking news flooding your timeline. But, honestly, most of the time it’s just the entire fandom clowning as we parse through every single thing Taylor has ever said or done, searching high and low for her signature Zodiac-killer-esque Easter eggs. Yes, we’ve been wrong a thousand more times than we’ve been right—but in our defense, Taylor made us this way. But after incorrect theory after incorrect theory, her New Heights interview hinted at promising details in relation to her new album, The Life of a Showgirl—and we think we could be right about a lot of them.

Last night, we were not only gifted with the announcement of her new album, but we also had a two-hour podcast to dissect for clues. I know most people don’t have time to sift through every theory spawned by the interview, but lucky for you, I get to do that and call it work. Plus, my FYP was so flooded with theories, I couldn’t ignore the Easter eggs even if I wanted to (which I don’t, to be clear). So, to save you the search, here are some of the most convincing Easter eggs and working theories that have come out of Taylor Swift’s New Heights interview. And if all of these are proven wrong come October 3… mind your business.

1. The book theory

I’m sorry, but there’s just no way Taylor would let three books sit center stage the entire episode (OK, in the background, but still) without them meaning something. Thankfully, TikTok detectives, like Reagan Baylee, tracked down each book and deciphered their possible significance.

The orange book, titled Basquiat, feels suspicious when you learn that the artist, Jean-Michel Basquiat, died on August 12—the exact same day the podcast teaser was posted (at 12:12 a.m., may I remind you), not to mention this is Taylor’s 12th album. Ruth Asawa, another book featuring an artist’s work, died at 87 years old, which also happens to be Travis Kelce’s jersey number. A third book, Extraordinary Records, has Taylor’s signature red lip on the cover. And finally, a book about Marc Chagall and El Lissitzky showcases the duo’s dreamlike art with themes of folklore… yes, you heard that right. What does all this mean? TBH, we don’t know yet, but they aren’t a coincidence. Whether they allude to lyrics or themes throughout the album, these details should all make sense on October 3.

2. The anthology theory

When Taylor mentioned she’d been to two AFC championships in the podcast intro, it looked strikingly similar to her The Tortured Poets Department Grammy announcement. She held up two fingers, then went on to reveal a secret double album at 2 a.m., titled The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology. Fans are speculating that this means that The Life of a Showgirl could also come in two forms: either a second double album or a documentary. The importance of this? Well, she’ll be even closer to completing her very own Beatles Anthology Project (one of the biggest moments in music history), as TikToker Jess Dennison explains.

Plus, all the orange and blue in the announcement can’t just be a coincidental color scheme. I mean, look at Taylor’s orange lipstick while sitting next to Travis in his blue sweatshirt (which she explicitly acknowledges)! With the album clearly being represented by the orange, fans are wondering what the blue represents. Plus, they can’t ignore this consistent color pairing for months (err… years leading up). Whether it’s a double album, a documentary, or both, it’s clear we’ll be getting far more songs than she’s letting on.

3. The 47 theory

Now, Taylor, you didn’t think we were just going to glaze over the fact that you said “47” twice during the podcast, did you? Nothing is a coincidence. There are a few different working theories about what the number means. Some think that in 47 days a single will drop; others believe it’s a nod to Karma, the 47th song on her Eras Tour setlist, which would support the theory that The Life of a Showgirl was originally her scrapped 2016 Karma album. My favorite, though, is the Ophelia theory, as explained by TikToker Alyssa Yung: We already know the opening track is titled The Fate of Ophelia, and in Hamlet, Ophelia’s death occurs in Act 4, Scene 7. Personally, I think this will be directly referenced in the song.

4. The 16-month theory

Only Swifties would start theorizing about an artist’s next album before the current one is even out, but that’s exactly what’s happening with this theory. In the podcast, Taylor says if we just give her “16 months,” she’ll know everything about the sports world. Hmm… what an interestingly specific timeframe. What could be exactly 16 months after the release of this episode? Oh, just her BIRTHDAY. What better time for TS13 to drop than on December 13?

While I hope we don’t get exposed for clowning once again after the album comes out, I think I’ve seen this film before… and I didn’t like the ending. Either way, you can’t deny how fun the fandom-wide Easter egg hunt is. Trust that we’ll find more between now and October 13.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor

As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.

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The post Every ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ Easter Egg We Spotted in Taylor’s ‘New Heights’ Interview appeared first on The Everygirl.