The Starter Guide for Today’s Most Popular K-Beauty Ingredients

There are many, many things to love about the ever-evolving world of K-beauty, but the unprecedented dedication to naturally-derived ingredients are what make this particular sector and its approach to skin care so enduring within beauty circles. We’ve waxed poetic about all of the weirdly effective ingredients routinely used in products, but for someone who is new to 10-step routines and healthy skin habits in general, navigating them all can be so daunting, that you’ll give up before even starting.

MORE: 12 K-Beauty Skin-Care Brands Everyone Loves and You Should, Too

K-beauty brands are constantly expanding to include new innovations, but according to Charlotte Cho, co-founder of Soko Glam, there’s a core set of ingredients that continue to dominate and should be on everyone’s must-try list. Bookmark this chart before your next deep-dive into K-beauty products. You’ll be glad you did.

Allison Kahler/STYLECASTER

14 Barbecue Sides You Can Make in the Slow Cooker

Come summer, I’m all for cooking as much food on the grill as possible. I love the slightly charred taste of grilled food and the way it cooks just a little bit unevenly—vegetables that are blackened at the edges but still al dente inside, and meat with a charred crust and an almost-rare center. Plus, grilling outside keeps you from having to turn on the oven and add more heat to your already hot house.

The thing is, a grill can only fit so much food at once, so while it’s great for cooking up a main dish, there isn’t always room for sides. Plenty of summer side dishes don’t need to be cooked at all—think umami-packed tomato and burrata salads, or crispy coleslaw with just enough mayo—but for those that do, I prefer to use a slow cooker.

MORE: 7 Lazy Ways to Step up Your Summer Entertaining Game

If you think ‘summer slow cooker’ is an oxymoron, I don’t blame you. One of the slow cooker’s best and most famous tricks is that it can turn inexpensive, tough cuts of meat into tender, pull-apart piles of wintry stews and braises. The results are pretty damn impressive, but not exactly the kind of thing you crave in warmer summer months.

The thing is: The slow cooker can do pretty much everything your oven does (except turn your kitchen into a midsummer sauna). Plus, the set-it-and-forget-it nature of the slow cooker means that it’s great for preparing party side dishes ahead of time and not having to think about them until it’s time to eat.

MORE: 21 Simple Summer Punches to Serve Guests (Or Sip Solo)

Whether your cooking for two minutes or 20, here are the 14 summer slow cooker side dishes you need to know about.

The Most American Celebrity Outfits to Copy This Fourth of July

Making the American flag look chic is not an easy feat. Not all of us can pull it off—celebrities included. But featuring red, white, and blue in your outfit is pretty much an unspoken rule for Fourth of July, so whether we like it or not, stars and stripes will be a trend for at least one day. To make your Independence Day outfit-planning a little easier, we’ve rounded up the most all-American outfits celebrities have worn.

MORE: 3 Perfect Cocktails for the Fourth of July: One Red, One White, and One Blue

These stars certainly have found creative ways to incorporate (or nod to) one of the nation’s most iconic symbols in their #OOTDs, from patriotic denim jackets to red-white-and-blue ensembles. Let fashion-favorite stars such as Kendall Jenner, Hailey Baldwin, and Gigi Hadid direct you on what to wear (or what not to wear) this Independence Day. Bless the USA.

Lucy Hale’s Magenta Eyeshadow is What Dreams Are Made Of

Bold makeup is having a serious moment and we aren’t complaining about it one bit. Right now, we can’t wait to recreate the magenta and glitter eyeshadow sported by Lucy Hale at recent dinner with Haute Living.

Makeup artist Kelsey Deenihan made all of our— including Hale’s— sophisticated, yet playful princess dreams come true with her handy work. And luckily, she gave a step-by-step product breakdown on how she created the dynamic eye look.

Source: Instagram Source: Instagram

MORE: Madelaine Petsch’s Foolproof Summer Makeup Tutorial is Definitely Worth Trying

She worked with four different palettes to get the blown-out look: Kevyn Aucoin Myracle Hot Pink Eyeshadow, Kryolan Pure Pigments Metallic Magenta Eyeshadow, as well as pinks shades, courtesy of the  Urban Decay Full Spectrum Eyeshadow Palette and Too Faced Chocolate Gold Palette. From there, we’re guessing she did a good amount of blending.

Deenihan kept the rest of the look simple with nude lips and light blush, while hairstylist Kristin Ess followed suit with effortless waves. We’re pretty sure Hale’s obsessed with this look as much as we are. Now, excuse us while we go make our beauty dreams a reality and try it for ourselves. 

12 Things Truly Happy Couples Have in Common

Happy couples aren’t defined by the number of affectionate messages they’ve shared on social media or the amount of lovey-dovey photos they’ve posted. A genuine love connection isn’t something that can be measured using social media data—in fact, it’s not quantifiable at all.

But if love can’t be assessed using metrics, how are you supposed to know when a couple is truly happy? More importantly, how are you supposed to know what makes a genuinely happy couple so damn happy?

Here, we talk to four love experts to learn a little more about the 12 things truly happy couples have in common. Because while you can’t reliably measure a couple’s emotional connection, you can practice behaviors that will strengthen your own relationships. And that’s what really matters, isn’t it?

1. They genuinely like and respect each other.

Happy couples understand that it’s impossible to agree on everything. Sometimes, disagreements happen, and when they do, kindness is more important than winning an argument.

“Even when annoyed or hurt by the other, [truly happy partners] are still respectful,” Lesli Doares, couples coach and author of the book Blueprint for a Lasting Marriage: How to Create Your Happily Ever After with More Intention, Less Work, tells SheKnows. “They never call each other names or lash out in other ways.” Instead, they support each other—and agree to disagree.

2. They see the best in each other.

Happy couples have immense faith in one another. So when things go awry, they give each other the benefit of the doubt. “When there’s more than one way to interpret an interaction, [happy couples will] choose the one that paints their partner in the best light—not the worst,” says Doares.

MORE: 6 Signs You and Your Partner Have a Disconnect

3. Happy couples have sex that isn’t goal-oriented.

“This means that having sex for the sole purpose of pleasure and being together supersedes whether or not they climax,” Dr. Rose Hanna, a licensed marriage and family therapist and professor of psychology at California State University, Long Beach, tells SheKnows. “Once sex becomes goal-oriented, then failure is an option, and subsequently, anxiety increases. Anxiety is the death of good sex.”

4. Happy couples tend to be more nonsexually physically affectionate.

“They hold hands more, give hugs, rub each other’s shoulders, and give hugs more readily than other couples,” says Hanna.

5. They are sincerely interested in what is going on in each other’s lives.

That goes for everything from thoughts and feelings to activities. “They are curious about how the other sees them and the world and can have deep discussions without acrimony,” says Doares.

6. They make each other feel appreciated.

Truly happy couples are more likely to provide verbal praise, appreciation, and support to each other. “They truly feel valued in the relationship and are more verbally expressive of those feelings,” says Hanna. “In other words, their verbal interactions are more often focused on [being] positive and affirming than [being] negative and attacking.”.

7. Happy couples communicate effectively.

“Truly happy couples express what they want and need without blaming each other, Kim Olver, a relationship coach and author of Secrets of Happy Couples, tells SheKnows. “They also know that not all communication is verbal.” That means being aware of body language, and using touch to communicate love and support, rather than to deny it.

MORE: 9 Things to Remember During an Early-Days Sex Haze

8. Truly happy couples are committed to each other.

When couples are truly happy, they understand that partnership is the most important thing. For some couples, this means monogamy, and for others, it doesn’t have to. The key piece is that they’ve constructed a relationship they both believe in, and they’re committed to sticking with it.

“I believe this enables couples to have a greater degree of trust and commitment, which takes their relationship to deeper levels,” says Olver.

9. They want to spend time together, but they don’t have to be attached at the hip.

“They see the relationship as adding to their independently content lives, not as a way to fill an emotional hole or to acquire something—not being alone, social status, a family, etc.,” says Doares.

10. They don’t try to change each other.

It’s natural to grow frustrated or annoyed by aspects of your partner in any relationship, but happy couples understand what they can and can’t change. While red-flag issues are worth addressing, minor pet peeves aren’t.

“Truly happy couples have learned to graciously accept each other, and they’ve let go of the need to change the other,” says Olver. In fact, many partners end up growing to love (or at least, appreciate) the traits they once found annoying.

11. They trust each other, which helps them avoid fear and anxiety.

“They are not sensitive to their partner’s mood shifts, and they are always there for them, showing unwavering support instead of being worried or anxious,” Rori Sassoon, professional matchmaker and CEO of Platinum Poire, tells SheKnows. “You would never doubt or second-guess your partner, as you have earned a certain type of friendship and respect within your relationship.”

MORE: Don’t Ignore These Signs You’re in a Codependent Relationship

12. They make each other feel accepted.

“You accept the other person for who they are and for who they are not, for their favorable characteristics and their faux pas. When you can accept them without bitterness — this is a strong couple,” says Sassoon.

Truly happy couples also report feeling completely confident that they can be their true selves with their partner.

Originally posted on SheKnows.

Zayn Malik Looks Damn Good Wearing Gigi Hadid’s Shirt

Zayn Malik is all about switching up his look. For example, the 25-year-old model was spotted on Thursday sporting his fifth hair color in the past two months (a spaceship disco-silver and blue—totally cool). But once we got past that makeover, we realized he also swapped T-shirts with on-again girlfriend and model, 23-year-old Gigi Hadid.

Breaking from the tired cliché of women rummaging through their partners’ drawers, Malik did the opposite, pulling out and putting on Hadid’s Wrangler x Peter Max tee. Only a few weeks after Hadid wore the psychedelic top, the singer styled it with plaid trousers and bright blue sneakers.

Raymond Hall/GC Images/Getty Images.

Source: Instagram

MORE: Zendaya’s Wide-Leg Pants Look Is 70s-Inspired Summer Style Goals

The fashion-forward couple spoke about their joint consumption of clothing in their tandem Vogue August 2017 issue. Hadid prompted Malik: “I shop in your closet all the time, don’t I?,” to which he replied, “Yeah, but same. What was that T-shirt I borrowed the other day?” After confirming it was Anna Sui, Malik continued, “Yeah, I like that shirt. And if it’s tight on me, so what? It doesn’t matter if it was made for a girl.”

Hadid enthusiastically agreed. “Totally. It’s not about gender. It’s about, like, shapes. And what feels good on you that day. And anyway, it’s fun to experiment. . . .”

We’ve seen the fashion industry start to make gender-fluid and gender-neutral lines, but not all have succeeded (like Abercrombie and Fitch’s). Looks like we’ll have to take notes from Hadid and Malik and keep swapping from each other until the industry catches up.

Kourtney Kardashian Knows She’s One Hot Mama

If we were to rank the Kardashian sisters in terms of vanity (in the nicest way possible!), there’s no surprise middle-child Kimmie would take first place. From taking selfies while on the way to get younger sister Khloe out of jail, her countless nude photos, and proudly declaring she’s a 10 compared to everyone around her, Kim knows she’s hot— because TBH she is. The runner-up spot would’ve been a toss up between the remaining two sisters, Khloe and Kourtney, until now.

Oldest sister, Kourtney has officially solidified her place as number two since lusting after herself in an Instagram photo. Earlier this week Kim posted a photo of herself, Kendall, and Kourtney with the caption “Sisters ”

Source: Instagram

MORE: Kendall Jenner Ran into Someone with a ‘Kill the Kardashians’ Shirt, and Her Reaction Was On Point

While all three look stunning, the trusty Instagram account CommentsByCelebs pointed out 39-year-old Kourtney couldn’t take her eyes off herself. She playfully commented, “The one on the left ,” which is, of course, herself (unless you’re looking at the photo from their perspective then it would be Kim, but we’re not thinking she meant it that way). 

We know Kourt was just playing around, but self love is always necessary— even when you’re a multi-million dollar celebrity being a mom of three is hard work. And, honestly, if we had a clan that hot, we’d be vain, too; it ain’t hurting no one!

How to Get Pesky Hair Dye Off Your Skin

Getting a new hair color is always exciting, but dyeing your hair at home tends to be a messy process—and if you’ve done it, then you’re probably familiar with that special brand of terror that comes when you can’t figure out how to get the excess hair dye off your skin.

So what are we supposed to do when we want to color our hair at home but not deal with dyed skin, too? Prevention is key. Plus, you can use products you can find in your own home to get rid of the dye. Follow the tips below to learn how to get hair dye off your skin, and you’ll never be afraid of a DIY dye job ever again.

MORE: How to Get Rid of Brassy Hair for Only $6

Before Dyeing Your Hair

Apply baby oil or petroleum jelly to the hairline and surrounding areas like your ears and neckline. The product makes the skin slippery, therefore making removal of the dye much easier. Plus, hydrated skin will not absorb dye as quickly as dry skin.

It’s best to dye your hair on a day when you haven’t washed your hair or skin. The natural oils produced by the skin and hair also keep the surface of your skin moist, protecting it from any staining that may happen.

MORE: Why Experts Swear by Olaplex for Protecting Color-Treated Hair

While Dyeing Your Hair

Keep as much skin covered as possible with towels or shirts you don’t mind ruining. Also, make sure you’re wearing a pair of plastic gloves to keep your fingers protected.

How To Remove Dye Off Skin

• Hair dye is what got you in this predicament in the first place, but it can also get you out of the situation. Apply some leftover hair dye to stained areas of the skin, rub it in and use soap and a washcloth to wipe it off. Reactivating the hair dye will help to make it removable.
• Rubbing alcohol and soap is another way to tackle dye stains. Wet a cotton ball with some rubbing alcohol and soap, rub it gently onto the affected area, and rinse when done.
• Mix baking soda and dishwashing liquid, applying this soapy mixture to the affected area with a washcloth. Rub gently and rinse off. If possible, use a dishwashing liquid that contains lemon.
• Dip cotton wool in a bowl of vinegar and rub around the stain. This product works to gently remove dead skin cells, exfoliating away the skin that was dyed.
• Use a non-gel toothpaste on an old toothbrush to scrub at the stain.
• Apply makeup remover to a cotton ball, start rubbing, then wait five minutes before rinsing.

A version of this article was originally published in January 2014.

Madelaine Petsch’s Foolproof Summer Makeup Tutorial is Definitely Worth Trying

One of the more informative and sincerely helpful YouTube celebrity channels belongs to Madelaine Petsch. Although her uploads cover the gamut of beauty, lifestyle, and fashion, her makeup hauls and tutorials are always worth watching in their entirety; mainly because the “Riverdale” star actually knows what she’s doing.

MORE: The Self-Care Rituals Madelaine Petsch Can’t Live Without

Case in point: earlier this week, the 23-year-old, armed with a beautyblender and a few key products (hello, highlighter!), mastered #dewyskingoals right in front of our eyes. The key to her barely there slay appears to be layering lots of moisture with highlighter in a few strategic spots, as opposed to all over the face or cheekbone.

But before getting to that, Petsch preps her skin with a spritzes of Mario Badescu Rosewater Facial Spray, followed by tarte’s Shape Tape Concealer in Fair, the latter of which she loves for sheer coverage. After that, she treats her cheeks to a few swipes of blush, followed by the Wander Beauty Catch the Light Highlighter Glotion Duo on her eyelids and the Anastasia Beverly Hills Glow Kit on her brow bone, down the center of the nose, and cheekbones.

MORE: Our Favorite Under-$10 Drugstore Highlighters for an Oil-Free Glow

And to wrap things up, she throws on a little Charlotte Tilbury nude lipstick. Seems easy enough, right? We live for a straight-forward glow-up. Watch the entire tutorial above.

The Linen Jumpsuit Is the Secret to Comfy-Cute Style This Summer

I bought my first-ever jumpsuit last summer. It was a printed linen number, on sale at Anthropologie for a mere $30. (And like any avid Anthro shopper will tell you, when something at that store is on sale for $30, you buy it.)

After wearing that jumpsuit a few times, I decided to invest in another—and then another. As it turns out, buying one linen jumpsuit is a slippery slope to buying a whole bunch of linen jumpsuits. But I can’t say I’m mad about it: The linen jumpsuit is the secret to effortlessly chic summer style—plus, jumpsuits are comfy as hell.

MORE: The Street-Style Guide to Summer Jumpsuits

Unsurprisingly, I’m not the only one who appreciates the magic of a linen jumpsuit. According to our friends at Pinterest, social media users are pinning linen jumpsuits 53 percent more frequently right now than they were this time last year.

That’s not a massive jump, but it is a significant one, and I hope linen jumpsuits keep trending upward year over year. If it were up to me, this incredibly fashionable-yet-practical piece of clothing would never go out of style.

MORE: What to Wear to Work When It’s Hot AF Outside

So if you haven’t stocked up on linen jumpsuits yet, what are you waiting for? We’re approaching the hottest, most humid summer months—months where all you’ll want to do is lounge around is your comfiest, breeziest clothing. Why not opt for a super soft, super lightweight piece of clothing that doesn’t even require a matching top or bottom? Seriously, don’t you want to be able to throw something on, walk out the door, and call it a day?

Here, 19 of our favorite linen jumpsuits you can buy this summer. Whether you’re looking for something bold or subtle, feminine or edgy, fashion-forward or totally laidback, you’re sure to find it in our slideshow. Happy shopping.

LGBTQ Celebrities Who Were Told That Coming Out Would Ruin Their Careers

It’s 2018, but unfortunately, for many Hollywood executives, it’s still inconceivable to imagine a queer actor playing a straight person. So what does the entertainment industry do? Try to keep these actors closeted. And it’s not specific to the film and television industry either. As celebrities such as Fifth Harmony’s Lauren Jauregui and Hayley Kiyoko prove, closeting celebrities for the sake of their career still remains an issue.

MORE: 10 Awesome Beauty Brands That Support the LGBTQ Community

However, there are many LGBTQ celebrities who are sharing their story and speaking out against the stigma associated with being gay and in the limelight. Despite the advice they heard early in their careers, these celebrities are here to show that being gay has no effect on someone’s success. So listen up, Hollywood; these stars won’t stay closeted—and they’re not going to let you advise any up-and-coming talent to stay closeted either.

Rihanna Just Launched an 11-Piece Sex Accessory Line, and We Want All of It

While the rest of us have been sipping summer cocktails or lounging by the pool, Rihanna has been hard at work perfecting the latest extension to her Savage x Fenty lingerie collection: sex accessories. The Savage Xcessories line is full of fluffy handcuffs, rose gold kitty whips, satin restraints, and myriad other sex-cessories—all of which are available at affordable prices on the Savage x Fenty website.

MORE: 15 Steamy Sex Ideas That Will Make Your Summer Even Hotter

Savage x Fenty customers foraying into kink for the first time might want to try Rihanna’s Marabou Handcuffs ($24), Satin Restraints ($18), or Padded Eye Mask ($20). But shoppers looking to kick things up a notch might be better served by the Savage x Fenty Kitty Whip ($24) or Rose Gold Tone Crop ($24), which, for what it’s worth, has already sold out and is only available for pre-order.

Even shoppers looking for something a little more low-key can find it in the Savage Xcessories collection. The Lace Garter ($18) and Satin Sash ($24) can both be worn with standard lingerie items, and the Leather Pasties ($18) and Satin Pasties ($18) are always available for someone looking to get kinky without engaging in any BDSM.

MORE: The Most Cringe-Worth Celebrity Sex Stories We’ve Ever Heard

Oh, and one last thing to keep in mind: Rihanna’s debut Savage x Fenty lingerie line sold out within a day of her launching it earlier this month, so these Xcessories might go very quickly. If you’re interested in snagging a bedroom accessory for yourself, head on over to the Savage x Fenty website and flip through our slideshow of the available products below.

5 Summer Skin-Care Tips Black Women Should Keep in Mind

There’s a misconception that deeper skin tones are automatically protected from the sun in the summer, but that’s not true. “Dark skin is better protected from the sun, but that protection is not perfect,” says Dr. Michelle Henry, a NYC-based board-certified dermatologist.

“Even the deepest, richest skin tone is just SPF 13.” That’s why women with deeper skin tones should stock up on SPF 30 to protect their complexion and avoid sunburns because, “yes, dark skin does burn.” Deeper skin tones are also susceptible to other issues such as unevenness and acne flares, in addition to sun exposure.

With the help of Dr. Henry, we’re looking at five ways to keep deeper skin tones happy and healthy this summer.

MORE: 20 Jelly-Based Beauty Products for Your Coolest Summer Yet

Invest in Glycolic Acid        

It’s hotter outside, and you’re sweating more, so cleanser is key. However, not all cleansers are created equal. The ingredients inside are what really make the difference, especially for deeper skin tones. Dr. Henry recommends using a cleanser containing glycolic acid to “help exfoliate, but not dry out the skin, as glycolic acid is a humectant.”

This will help you maintain clean and glowing summer skin without stripping it of its moisture, which can lead to unevenness. We love Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser, which helps reduce minor discoloration and is also formulated with herbal extracts for soothing benefits.

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Avoid Chemical Peels and Laser Treatments

Who doesn’t want to have a flawless, glowing complexion in the summer? After all, it’s the time we bare the most skin. Nevertheless, resist the urge to brighten and smooth with the help of chemical peels or laser treatments. Deeper skin tones are especially prone to hyperpigmentation, and that risk increases a lot when you “mix chemicals, laser, and sun exposure on delicate skin,” says Dr. Henry.

Instead of chemical or laser treatments that can be harsh, use an acidic exfoliator at home once a week. Sunday Riley’s Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment is gentle enough to use even on sensitive skin, but still contains enough purified-grade lactic acid to clear your complexion and encourage natural collagen production.

MORE: 3 Black Women Share Game-Changing Skin-Care Routines

Stock Up on Vitamin C 

Make vitamin C your new best friend this summer—it’s both beautifying and protective, especially for deeper skin tones. “This antioxidant will help maintain an even skin tone and protect against damage caused by pollution encountered during outdoor activities,” says Dr. Henry.

Make vitamin C work for you this summer by buying a multitasking serum that you can use in the morning under moisturizer and makeup, or in the evening as part of your nighttime skin-care routine. Skinceuticals C E Ferulic with 15 Percent L-Ascorbic Acid is legendary for its firming, plumping, and protective qualities. At $166, it’s also famously pricey, so Paula’s Choice C15 Booster is an effective yet affordable choice at just $49.

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Make Hydrating Moisturizer and Masks Part of Your Routine

“During the summer, excess sweating can deplete the hydration in one’s skin,” says Dr. Henry. That’s why your skin-care arsenal should feature some hydrating products to avoid issues of blotchiness and coarseness, which many people with deeper skin tones face.

Glamglow’s ThirstyMud Hydrating Treatment will quench your skin with the hydration it needs with hyaluronic acid, leaving your skin supple and silky soft after use. DR. JART+ Ceramidin Cream is a great moisturizer that quenches dehydrated skin and supports the skin’s moisture barrier.

MORE: Game-Changing Skin-Care Tips Every Black Woman Should Know

Keep a Nourishing Oil on Hand

Deeper skin tones don’t just need a little extra love in the face; dryness and unevenness can extend to other body parts if not taken care of properly. Dr. Henry recommends using oil to maintain skin’s suppleness and softness, as well as bestowing a luxurious sheen on skin.

Body Shop’s Honey Bronze Shimmering Dry Oil has a hydrating yet nongreasy formula with a bit of shimmer to make your legs glisten. It’s filled with skin-conditioning ingredients and contains honey from Ethiopia to banish dryness. Prepare to wow everyone with your beautiful gams.

Halsey Got a Face Tattoo and It’s Not What We Expected

Halsey has never been afraid to put her tattoos on full display. For instance, the 23-year-old singer recently flaunted her inked arms and left leg at the MTV Movie and TV Awards, sort of like a proud mom showing off her kid’s drawings. But one tattoo that didn’t hit the spotlight during the red carpet is her newest and might we say, boldest, decoration.

Halsey at MTV Movie and TV Awards. Photo: Steve Granitz/WireImage/Getty Images.

Straying from her usual spots, Halsey went and got a face tattoo. Now, before you start thinking it’s akin to Post Malone’s “Always Tired” ink, it’s not. Instead, she went for a more subtle design near her ear: a red Q with a diamond below it.

Source: Instagram Source: Instagram

MORE: Halsey’s New Neck Tattoo Is Inspired by a ‘90s Anthem

She posted a photo of the new ink on Instagram yesterday, writing, “Headed straight for the castle. @nal.tattoo thanks for my first (and only hopefully lol) face tattoo.” The Los Angeles based tattoo studio also posted its own photo of the singer with a simple crown emoji.

Other celebs are feeling the ink, too, like unexpected pal John Mayer who simply said, “This is brilliant.” We are inclined to agree. The tattoo is simple and elegant, but also dangerous and badass because of placement. It’s also easily to cover and not too noticeable, which means it won’t end up being the topic of every conversation.

MORE: 35 Tattoo Ideas That Are Simple, But Stunning

Although Halsey hopes this is her last face tattoo, we wouldn’t hate another one on the opposite side. It’s all about balance, right?

The Best Clarifying Shampoos According to Hair Texture

All shampoos aren’t created equal, but you already knew that! We recently broke down the benefits of throwing a clarifying shampoo in your lineup (hint: it’s like your regular version but more “intense). “The purpose of a clarifying shampoo is to eliminate residue from the hair and scalp that can make the hair look dull,” explains celebrity hairstylist and PHYTO brand ambassador Anthony Cristiano. “Most importantly, it detoxes the scalp, removes dry skin cells, and eliminates product buildup as well as environmental pollutants. This promotes hair growth and a healthy scalp,” he adds.

Of course, we also recognize that when it comes to selecting the right shampoo, hair texture is a major factor. Everyone can benefit with advantages ranging from product buildup removal to rehabbing your hair after a dip in a chlorinated pool. Just remember, clarifying shampoo is meant to be used sparingly (like once a week max), so think of it as a supplement to your current regimen. Here are 10 options for every hair texture/type, including some expert picks.

Why Chrissy Teigen Skipped the Lipstick for Her Second Becca Cosmetics Collab

She’s got her hands full with a newborn son, toddler daughter, and second cookbook on the way, but Chrissy Teigen has still managed to gift beauty stans (us included) with a second Becca Cosmetics collaboration. And because she’s one of the more relatable celebrity beauties, her capsule collection includes a body oil that is not only multipurpose, but made without the sticky formulas typically found in similar products.

“I’ve always wanted something easy that I could apply myself without a mirror and know that it’s going to look flawless,” said the model and entrepreneur in an interview with Allure, where she also revealed that her penchant for glowy skin was ultimately the inspiration for the summer-ready find.

MORE: 13 Mind-Blowing Chrissy Teigen Food Hacks to Try Out Immediately

“I do really love taking good care of my skin,” she said. “When I work on a red-carpet look with my makeup artist Mary Phillips, we get really focused on skin. We want it to look really flawless, whether its legs, arms, collarbones. We kind of take pride in how good it looks in photos, so I was like, ‘oh, let’s do something for body that everyone can use.'” She also mentions that because the oil isn’t sticky, you needn’t worry about it getting sand–something that truly ruins her day– all over your body at the beach.

The other standout product in the Endless Summer Glow Collection is a “Glow Gloss,” available in three blush-toned shades. As someone who isn’t a huge fan of lip stains, Teigen prefers gloss since it’s essentially foolproof to apply, wear, and maintain, unlike lipstick, which can bleed and leave unattractive rings around the mouth. In fact, that’s why you’ll rarely see her wearing a bold lip on the red carpet.

MORE: 14 Body Oils That Will Give You a Sun-Kissed Glow in Seconds

“I think bold lips are great for people who are able to just do sexy, coy smiles but I’m completely incapable of that, so I end up looking like a killer clown or something,” she said. Instead, she focuses on keeping things understated, but presentable. For instance, when she’s on Instagram Stories, she’ll use a body oil to accentuate her clavicle area and skin-friendly makeup for vibrancy.

Shop the entire line–which also includes a face palette–here.

Victoria Beckham Mom-Shamed for Bringing Son Brooklyn as Date To Event

Spice Girls alumnus Victoria Beckham has the most adorable family in the entire world, and that’s a fact. Besides the way they look, the Beckhams are very affectionate with one another—they’re constantly hugging and holding hands. So, of course, we certainly believed Posh when she shut down those pesky rumors about a brewing divorce!

Source: Instagram

You’d think that fans of the family would appreciate their closeness. The Beckhams are a tight-knit crew, and that’s better than the alternative. But, lately, some fans have been wondering if they’re getting a little too close: namely, Victoria and her son, Brooklyn.

Last night, the two attended the Argento Ball For The Elton John AIDS Foundation in Windsor, and Victoria brought Brooklyn as her plus-one. But some fans saw fit to voice their concern that the gesture was “inappropriate,” particularly after seeing photos of the star helping her son with his tie (because, er, that’s such a strange thing for a mom to do?).

Source: Instagram

MORE: Victoria Beckham Shared a Gorgeous Selfie of Her Rarely Seen Freckles

One user commented: “While I think it is lovely that she is bringing her son to the ball, the photo is a tad inappropriate looking – maybe it’s the poses but it looks slightly inappropriate. Am I wrong?” Another chimed in, “Shouldn’t David be your ‘date’ not your son?”

More loyal fans were quick to defend the Beckhams: “Think she looks gorg and all she is doing is putting on her sons tie who will always be her baby no matter how old.”

Source: Instagram

Victoria’s husband, soccer star David Beckham, has come under fire in the past for being publicly affectionate with his children. Last year, some fans were offended when he posted a picture kissing his daughter on the lips. He later made a statement in defense of the picture, saying that he and Victoria were simply raised in affectionate households, and chose to raise their children the same way.

For our part, we’d like to tell the trolls to chill the hell out. It’s sweet that Victoria brought her son as her date to an event, and PDA between family members—when it’s of the harmless variety we’re seeing here—is nothing strange to speculate about. Get your minds out of the gutter, guys.

How to Recreate Ashley Graham’s Exact Post-Workout Regimen

Model and body activist Ashley Graham is no stranger to the gym—in fact, she recently told MindBodyGreen that she works out five days a week, which is more times than we’re likely to put on real pants. Ironically, though, Graham’s favorite wellness practices have nothing to do with dumbbells or machines. Instead, the strategies she swears by are actually meant to be done after her workout. Don’t believe us? Read on.

Source: Instagram

MORE: The Quick-and-Dirty Workout for Firmer Thighs

Graham insists that the key to keeping her mind and body fit is recovery. She practices a lot of deep breathing during and after her workouts, and uses a foam roller herself when her exercise routine is complete. “I also see myofascial release therapist Alan Willoughby when I’m in Los Angeles. It’s been huge for my recovery game, and I don’t even get massages anymore,” she said. (If you don’t already know, foam rolling is a common form of myofascial release, but there are more intensive forms that professionals can help you with. Myofascial release decreases soreness, improves your circulation and helps your body detox.)

Source: Instagram

MORE: 9 Healthy Summer Wellness Retreats You Can Actually Afford

Perhaps the most intriguing part of Graham’s wellness routine is not an exercise or recovery practice for the body—it’s for the mind. She checks in with herself every day in order to express gratitude. “I think bringing gratitude into your life every day has huge impact. It takes all the emphasis off of you and brings it back to all the people you’re impacting.”

The best part about Graham’s post-workout routine? You can do it yourself! It’s easy to take a few minutes out of each day to reflect on and appreciate your wellness. And here’s a $17 foam roller to get you started.

11 Ultra-Affordable Drugstore Products Recommended by Dermatologists

If you’re new to a multi-step routine, choosing the right skincare products can be downright nerve-wracking. Even after searching the web for hours for the best cleanser, there seem to be dozens of answers and how on earth do we know even works on our specific skin type?! Thankfully, we have skin experts aka dermatologists and aestheticians. Long story short: when we’re in a skin rut or trying to tackle a pesky concern like blemishes or excess oil, these pros know the ins and outs for all complexions. And while you may see them recommend products with high price tags, they also know how to care for skin on a budget.

MORE: 20 Jelly-Based Beauty Products for Your Coolest Summer Yet

We touched base with a few skin geniuses to see exactly how they shop the drugstore aisles for those common, but necessary products, like cleanser and a dependable night cream. See their top picks, all under $50, ahead.

Your A-to-Z Guide to Sun Protection

We’ll say it until we’re blue in the face: Sun protection is a must for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re wearing SPF-infused makeup or even sitting inside, just inches away from a computer screen all day. UV rays are pretty much everywhere and with other factors such as global warming and skin diseases thrown into the mix, we have to be on guard at all times.

MORE: 20 Under-$20 Sunscreens with Safety Approval From the Environmental Working Group

And health-specific consequences aside, skin that’s been overexposed to the sun doesn’t feel or look too good, either. At the same time, we understand how daunting choosing one formula can be. Some look too chalky. Others refuse to stay put. And that all-too-common sunscreen smell isn’t the most pleasant side-effect, either.

MORE: 5 Black-Beauty-Editor-Approved Sunscreens That Won’t Make Your Skin Look Ashy

So, in lieu of another summer season officially here, we’re digging into 26 must-know facts about sun protection with the help of licensed dermatologist and director of the Virginia-based Laser and Cosmetic Center, David McDaniel, M.D., FAAD.

Acrylic Earrings Are the 80s Throwback I Can’t Get Enough of

Throughout my many years as a clothes-obsessed person, I’ve become an adept online shopper. The only problem: I’m way more drawn to clothes than I am to accessories. Like, way more. Like, looking at my wishlist, all you’ll see is dresses, pants, and tops punctuated by the occasional scarf, more.

Needless to say, jewelry rarely catches my eye while online shopping. But even I caught onto the acrylic earring trend.

MORE: Fact: You Need a Pair of Bright Sunglasses Immediately

The first pair of acrylic earrings I noticed was a flashy set from ASOS. The earrings combined all my favorite colors (pink, blue, and orange) to create a retro, statement-making look, and even better—they seemed super lightweight. I’ve long appreciated a bold accessory, but heavy earrings will always get a hard pass from me.

After I noticed that ASOS pair, I began seeing acrylic earrings everywhere. And according to our friends at Pinterest, that’s because acrylic earrings actually are everywhere. The trendy accessory is being pinned 143 percent more frequently this year than it was last year. That’s incredible, but not that surprising, considering acrylic earrings provide the perfect juncture between eye-catching style, practicality, and affordability (resin is a lot cheaper than stone, y’all).

MORE: 11 Straw Bags You Can (and Should) Carry Everywhere this Summer

Here, 19 of our favorite pairs of acrylic earrings. Some are bolder, while others are more subtler—but all of them are incredibly fun.

The $5 Product Jennifer Aniston’s Makeup Artist Uses to Keep Lipstick in Place

Have you ever looked in a mirror three hours after applying your lipstick to see it has smudged, budged, and completely faded? Yeah, we’ve all (sadly) been there. Swiping on a liquid matte lip deters that fate for a while, but it can leave lips feeling dry and cracked. So, instead of tossing all your cream-based lipsticks, take a tip from Jillian Dempsey, who has saved celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Emilia Clarke’s pouts.

The makeup artist recently revealed on Instagram that she uses blotting papers (or rice papers) to “blot excess cream lipstick, to mattify the color and create a stain look.” The product is usually used for seeping up excess oil on your face, so it makes sense that it does the same for your lips, too.

People/@jilliandempsey

Source: Instagram

MORE: How to Avoid Getting Lipstick on Your Teeth (Unlike These 5 Celebrities)

The biggest bonus is that you won’t transfer as much of the color as you would if you used a tissue or other cotton-based product. It’s basically a win-win situation; long lasting smudge-proof lips, high pigmentation, and moisture.

If you have oily skin, these sheets might already be in your arsenal, but if not, you can snag 100 of Dempsey’s preferred DHC Blotting Papers for $5. Pucker up: you’re about to hit celebrity lip status.

Every Single Time Khloé Kardashian’s Gave Us Major Style Envy

As the co-founder of her killer jeans brand, Good American, and with years invested into her family boutique, DASH, Khloé Kardashian is a secret assassin in the fashion world. Though she doesn’t get as much cred as Kim or Kendall, the 34-year-old is just as much of a fashion It-girl as her reality star sisters—and we’re about to show you why.

MORE: 47 Nostalgic Throwback Pictures of the Kardashians Before They Were Famous

Whether she’s making her way down the red carpet or strolling down the street, Khloé has an envy-worthy fashion sense that we’re dying to replicate. Click through to se Khloé’s best looks and get ready to drool. (We already started.)

Kylie Jenner’s 35 Most Naked Instagrams of All Time

It’s safe to say that makeup guru Kylie Jenner doesn’t mind getting nearly naked on Instagram. When she isn’t kicking ass with her makeup lineup, Kylie Cosmetics, and posting updates on her IG stories, she posts plenty of sexy, sultry pics—be it a cleavage pic, a pic of her in a bikini laying by the pool or on the beach, or a fashion shot.

MORE: 10 Mind-Blowing Makeup Hacks to Copy from Kylie Jenner

And she does this a lot. But, hey, no judgement—she has every right to show herself off.

MORE: The 55 Most Naked Celebrity Instagram Pictures of All Time

So, we’ve rounded up Jenner’s 35 most naked Instagrams of all time, because—why not? Important note, though: Jenner definitely started posting scantily-clad Instas long before she turned 18 (on August 10, 2015, in case you’re wondering), but we’re not about to post those here—for obvious reasons. That said, here are the best of the best.

A version of this article was originally published in March 2017.

Lucy Hale Dyed Her Hair Chocolate Brown, and It’s Giving Us Major ‘Pretty Little Liars’ Vibes

Lucy Hale is an undeniable hair chameleon. But after months as a redhead and a blonde, she’s finally returning to her chocolate brown roots—and boy, will “Pretty Little Liars” fans be happy with her new color. The 29-year-old actress, who has been sporting dirty blonde hair since March, recently dyed it chocolate brown, and her color is giving us major Aria Montgomery vibes.

The “Life Sentence” star debuted her new color on Tuesday with an Instagram story of her showing off her much-darker locks. In a series of pictures and videos, Hale can be seen with a head of all-brown hair. Unlike her previous hair colors, which used highlights and lowlights to create pretty ombré effects, Hale left her hair all one color: dark brown.

The actress, who has been sporting a shoulder-length lob for the past few months, also seemed to have trimmed her hair into neat and petite chin-length bob. (Though in one video she appeared to be wearing extensions for upcoming project.) Check out the striking before-and-afters below.

Before:

Source: Instagram

After: 

Photo: Instagram

Photo: Instagram

Though Hale didn’t reveal who the hairstylist behind her new cut and color was, we can speculate that it was her longtime hairstylist Kristin Ess, who was responsible for Hale’s previous drool-worthy red and blonde ‘dos and has also worked with stars such as Lauren Conrad and Lili Reinhart.

No matter what color she’s rocking, Hale looks stunning. Guess that’s the result of true hair chameleon.

Expert-Approved DIY Ways to Remove Self Tanner

When it comes to getting your glow on, nothing is better—and safer—than a little self-tanner. A golden or bronze complexion in a bottle? Sign us up. The trouble is that sometimes your application process doesn’t go as smoothly as expected, leaving you with streaks, uneven application or too deep/dark of a hue. Talk about a faux no-no! To help you avoid any further beauty blunders, we spoke to a handful of experts to discuss the best DIY methods for fixing a self-tanning blunder. You can thank us later.

Astringent or Apple Cider Vinegar

“I recommend removing self-tanner with an astringent type toner or if you have apple cider vinegar at home, you can use this as well,” explains celebrity esthetician, Olga Lorencin. “Also, if you apply oils at night before going to bed, this usually helps to remove self-tanner or minimize color streaking, but it might take a few nights for it to fully work.”

Baby Oil

Nearly every expert suggested coating yourself in baby oil and here’s why: “If you need to fix a mistake fast, like dark marks or streaks, the quickest way is to apply baby oil to the darker area and leave for 10 minutes,” explains St. Tropez Skin Finishing Expert, Sophie Evans. “Leave drenched on your skin for 10 minutes, then either soak in a hot bath or take a hot shower and get scrubbing!”

“The baby oil will make exfoliation more efficient and take that tan down a few shades. If you came out too pale simply re-apply. St Tropez also makes an amazing Tan Remover Mitt that you use in the shower, it will erase any unwanted dark patches and remove self -tan completely once it starts to get old,” adds Evans who counts Kate Moss, Margot Robbie, Victoria Beckham and Bella Hadid as clients.

Toothpaste

It’s not just for pearly whites! “Tooth paste is a good [trick] if you get a little bit on the palms of your hands. It is just extremely sticky and not great for large areas—think of this more for removing little stubborn areas,” explains Molly Quiddington, social media manager at Australian tanning company, Bondi Sands. “Don’t be afraid to re-apply again to fix any missed areas,”

Her pro tip: try tanning at least 2 days prior to your event to give yourself time to fix any major mistakes.

Exfoliation

If your color is too deep for your liking, dermatologist Dr. Gervaise Gerstner recommends hitting the shower. “[To tone down excess color] and make it look more natural buy a dry brush, and exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate. Use a body scrub to up the exfoliation and take long, soaky bath,” she advises.

For those who continuously have bad self-tanning experiences, she suggests Wonderskin Skin Perfected Body Foundation. “This  works great to even out tone and fix any any streaks. I use the natural color one on my legs to give an illusion of long lean airbrush legs!”

Lemon Juice & Wedges

Still streaky? “Mix baking soda with lemon/lime juice and use a face towel to rub it over your skin to help to take down your streaks,” explains shares avid self-tanner and founder of his namesake line, James Read.  “Resting your over-tanned elbows on lemon wedges will also help to remove tan.”

“When selecting your self tanner, you may want to try a gradual tan—it’s great for tan virgins, or for someone just wanting a glow or wanting to custom design their tan by building it up,” he explains. Try his Coconut Water Tan Mist if you are a newbie.

Hair Color Remover

“Stain remover that hair colorists use can be good for treating small areas if needed,” adds makeup artist Marlena Orlowska with Paul Labrecque Salon and Spa.  “[However], this would likely be used in a more professional setting like a salon or spa if needed.”

Her advice is to always apply tanning products in bright daylight. “Your bathroom is likely not a good place since there are probably too many shadows and it could be a little dark. Also, make sure you do not exercise/sweat or go swimming until the next day post-application!”

Shaving Cream

It’s not just for your legs ladies. “I recommend, rubbing your hands with shaving foam [or toothpaste as stated above] help to reduce the orange on your hands,” he adds. “Using rubbing Nivea wipes over your skin can help to reduce your tan or any patchy areas,” explains Read, who works with Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Lily James, Laura Kitone and Ellie Goulding.

One of the biggest mistakes he sees is over-application. “The best approach is to gradually apply your tan in thin layers. You can always add more if you want a darker color!”

Hair Removal Cream

According to Evans, hair removal cream (like Veet or Nair) is also very effective. “The hands will lose their color very fast so don’t freak out if they do turn out darker, but a great tip: use hair removal cream on a Q-tip.”

“Leave on the area for half the recommended time stated on the bottle,” she cautions. “We want to take the color down— not remove it completely. We want to make the skin match so half the time is recommended.

Sauna or Steam Room

If you aren’t in a rush, using the steam room at your local gym can also minimize your color. “Sit inside for 20 mins and then wipe your skin with a towel—this will remove your tan,” adds Read.

Ashley Tisdale Dyed Her Hair Buttery Blonde and Cut into a Soft Bob

Ashley Tisdale is ready for summer with a fresh cut and color. The 32-year-old actress, who cut and colored her hair into a dramatic ombré bob a few weeks ago, changed up her look again—this time, with a soft undercut and buttery blonde hair.

The “High School Musical” star showed off her new hair on Tuesday with an Instagram of her feeling her fresh ‘do. The picture featured Tisdale with her hands through her hair, as her fingers showed off her new cut and color: a soft undercut bob which transitioned from dark, brunette roots to light, buttery blonde. “New hair, who dis,” Tisdale wrote in the caption.

Before:

Source: Instagram

After:

Source: Instagram

Photo: Instagram

Tisdale’s blonde was done by hair colorist Justin Anderson (who is also responsible for Leighton Meester‘s recently dyed brunette hair), while her cut was done by stylist Anh Co Tran, who has also worked with stars such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. 

Though Tisdale isn’t a natural blonde, the golden color is what made her a household name when she starred as Sharpay Evans in 2006’s fan favorite, “High School Musical.” In fact, Tisdale, a natural brunette, dyed her hair blonde when she was cast in the Disney Channel movie and the color soon became synonymous with her look.

With Tisdale going back to blonde and Meester going back to brunette, it seems like more and more celebrities are returning to the colors that made them household names for ’90s and ’00s kids, regardless of what their natural shade might be. We’re taking bets on who’s next.

Source: Instagram Source: Instagram

Why Model Candice Huffine Is Done Apologizing for Her Body

Candice Huffine didn’t have a plan B. From the day she was born, she wanted to be a model. What she didn’t know was how to get there. Raised in a small town in Maryland outside of Washington D.C., Huffine did cheerleading and pageants as a teen, thinking that one day someone was going to discover her. “I was literally waiting for someone to say, ‘Now, tomorrow, we’re going to take your photo for a magazine,’” Huffine tells StyleCaster. “I really wanted to be in the Sears catalog. That was a big goal for me.”

When Huffine was 15, an audience member at a pageant suggested that she visit modeling agencies in New York. After researching which agencies her favorite supermodels were at, Huffine and her mom took a two-day trip to New York to meet with two dozen agencies. She was rejected by all of them—except for one, which was starting a new plus-size division and told Huffine that she, a size 8 at the time, would be a perfect fit. “I never had a relationship with the term plus size before,” Huffine says. “So I was extremely surprised when that was offered to me.”

Image: Peter White/Getty Images.

As Huffine was growing up, her mom, a size 14 at the time, never made her feel less-than because of her size. Huffine wasn’t aware that they shopped in a different section in clothing stores, and it was never a big deal when either of them gained weight. Even when it the came to the media, Huffine wasn’t negatively affected by the parade of rail-thin women, though she naturally gravitated toward models with bigger busts and hips, such as Laetitia Casta. The first time she was seriously aware of her size was when she started modeling and saw her waistline as an excuse for discrimination. “When they showed me pictures of other plus girls that they were representing, these girls to me were stunning,” Huffine says. “I was like, ‘What’s the catch? Why are we putting this other label on and making this subsection of a modeling agency?’”

My body is strong and it’s powerful and it’s unstoppable.

Huffine has been modeling for the past 18 years, but she only really counts the most recent decade. The first eight years were spent meandering in the fashion industry as a model who was considered plus size but was really in between categories. There was also a lack of brands willing to design plus-size clothes. And the ones that did cater to curvy women usually made clothes for more conservative customers (think business suits), which Huffine, a teenager at the time, was far from the face of. Even beauty campaigns, where clothing wasn’t the focus, turned Huffine away because of her size. “I thought, ‘Why can’t I go to a makeup casting?’ Everyone wears makeup. This doesn’t make any sense,’” Huffine says.

Image: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows/Getty Images.

MORE: How Marvel’s Olivia Holt Deals with Mansplainers and Body Critics

It wasn’t until the rise of social media and her following exploded with women who saw her as a real-life example of the average woman’s body that Huffine, now a size 12, saw a change. “Now, a woman can write you and say, ‘These words you said helped me. This photo helped me see myself differently. This image of you on vacation helped me get into a bathing suit,’” Huffine says. “There was obviously a cry for representation.” Soon after, the fashion industry followed: In 2011, Huffine was cast for the first Vogue Italia cover to feature a plus-size model in more than a decade. In 2014, she became the first plus-size model to appear in the Pirelli calendar, a historic fashion publication known for kick-starting the careers of supermodels such as Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, and Cindy Crawford.

Clothes should be fitting me. I don’t need to bend.

And though her career seemed steady, with covers for Harper’s Bazaar, CR Fashion Book, and W, and a lucrative campaign for Lane Bryant, Huffine wasn’t free from size discrimination. As her profile rose and she became invited to more A-list events, Huffine struggled to find designers to dress her. Though she never heard a blatant no, timing was always an issue, with designers telling her that they would love to dress her, but it would take too much time and effort to create a non-sample-size dress for her before a red carpet. “It’s not my problem. It’s a loss on their part,” Huffine says, adding that sample sizes should be expanded to a size 14 “at the very least.” “There are incredible women who want to wear your designs and blast them out to the world, but if you’re not prepared to put them on our bodies, then it’s not meant to be.”

A lack of samples in her size was also a recurring theme on high-fashion photo shoots, where, in her early years, Huffine found herself apologizing when magazines and designers failed to produce clothes in her size. “I found myself literally apologizing for my body all the time because things wouldn’t fit me that they pulled off the rack, and I’d be embarrassed,” Huffine says. “Which is silly because these things should be fitting me. I don’t need to bend.”

Source: Instagram

MORE: ‘Pose’ Star Hailie Sahar on Her #MeToo Story and Fighting Trans Stereotypes

Huffine’s struggle to find clothes in her size—in and out of the fashion industry—was why when she launched her activewear brand Day/One in 2017, she was adamant that it was size inclusive. The line—which recently launched its first retail partnership with plus-size styling service Dia&Co and its new activewear section Dia&Co Active—includes sizes from 0 to 30 and was inspired by her own fitness journey.

I don’t make apologies for my body.

In the last year, Huffine has run two marathons and more than 700 miles. The achievement, inspired by her husband daring her to run a marathon in 2015, has been saluted for challenging the idea of what a “runner’s body” looks like. But not everyone has been happy with Huffine’s accomplishment. “‘When I started to run, there was a lot of kickback, like, ‘Oh, she just wants to get skinnier.’ Then they would clock the photos that came afterward and be like, ‘Oh, look. Look how skinny she’s getting. She’s not proud of her curves,’” Huffine says. 

She believes that the backlash is from the often-incorrect association between working out and losing weight, something that other plus-size models, such as Jordyn Woods and Ashley Graham, have also spoken out against. “There’s a misconception that everybody who is working out is only doing it to drop multiple sizes,” Huffine says. “Because all of our headlines and magazines are ‘Lose 15 pounds in two weeks with this workout plan, with this diet plan!’ I couldn’t list all the reasons why I’m running, but none of them have to do with changing my body.”

Image: Peter White/Getty Images.

Though there are days when she feels less confident than others, Huffine can positively say that she no longer has insecurities with her body. Whether she’s “too big” or “too small,” Huffine’s body is hers, and she’s done apologizing for it. “I don’t have insecurities with my body as a whole, and I don’t make apologies for it,” Huffine says. “My body has taken me on this journey that I never expected. I’m never going to take it for granted or feel like it’s wrong, because it’s not. It’s strong and it’s powerful and it’s unstoppable.”