This Frigid Winter Weather Has Me California Dreaming—and Swimsuit Shopping

There’s a kind of cruel irony pervading my favorite retailers right now: It’s barely February, but stores have traded their winter wares for spring options. Smocked tops are making their way onto store shelves, sandals are growing more abundant than boots and cute swimsuits are already available en masse. This seasonal schedule is nothing new, but considering this week boasted some of the coldest days New York City has seen so far this year, it feels like a sick joke. Either that, or an invitation to enter a state of absolute weather-denial. (And as a glass-half-full kinda gal, I’m tempted to choose the latter.)

For many, spring comes in March. That’s when schools and colleges tend to celebrate Spring Break, and it’s when the season officially begins (this year’s spring equinox will strike on March 20). The issue is: Much of the warm weather the Southern half of the United States gets to enjoy doesn’t trickle up North until, well, May. (We’ve literally had blizzards in April in NYC. Don’t @ me.) So it’s hard to justify shopping anything other than winter sweaters, winter booties and winter coats.

But stores are practically begging us to. The other day, I lost myself in an online shopping spree that doubled as an opportunity to live vicariously through people who live in places where it’s actually warm enough to wear bathing suits right now, and I stumbled upon hundreds of veritably cute swimsuits that are absolutely ready to be purchased. And it’s not like one retailer has jumped the gun on this; ASOS, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Revolve—all of your go-to’s have already stocked up on cute swimsuits. Would it be a crime for us to start shopping them?

Again, my glass-half-full side is here to say: It would be a crime for us not to start shopping them. Because these swimsuits bring us joy, hope—the promise of a future that is much warmer and more idyllic than the world in which we’ve found ourselves. We deserve sun. We deserve happiness. And for the love of all things beautiful, we deserve temperatures higher than 6 degrees. If shopping—or even window-shopping—cute swimsuits in February helps us get closer to this dream, we should do it.

Montce Cynthia Textured Swimsuit, $235 at ASOS

A deep-V, high-leg cut and ruffled waistline are a match made in swimwear heaven.

Out from Under High-Rise Bikini Bottoms, $45 at Urban Outfitters

Your favorite underwear set—rendered in swimsuit form.

Mara Hoffman Lydia High-Waist Bikini Bottoms, $145 at Anthropologie

I mean, how could you possibly go wrong with gingham?

Curve High-Waist High-Leg Bikini Bottom, $26 at ASOS

The Pretty Woman dress, rendered in hot bikini form.

Mix and Match Crinkle Crop Bikini Set, $46 at ASOS

I mean, it’s literally a knit bikini. If any swimsuit feels appropriate to shop in February, it’s this one.

Allihop Square-Neck One-Piece Swimsuit, $118 at Anthropologie

Quite possibly the cutest damn one-piece I’ve ever seen.

Embellished Mirror Bead Short Two-Piece, $32 at ASOS

This two-piece includes shorts. Shorts!!

Sauvage High-Neck Mesh Tank One-Piece, $97 at Revolve

Because iridescent anything is a good idea.

Out from Under Printed Kendall One-Piece Swimsuit, $72 at Urban Outfitters

Veritably Instagram-worthy.

Peek and Beau Colorblock Swimsuit, $17.50 at ASOS

Another Pretty Woman dress-inspired swimsuit—and I’m here for it.

Mara Hoffman Lira Bikini Top, $135 at Revolve

This neon bikini top is so cute I might honestly look for ways to repurpose it as a shirt.

Chromat Tidal II Suit, $130 at Revolve

Undoubtedly the edgiest take on swimwear to hit the market.

South Beach Exclusive Ribbed Lace-Up Swimsuit, $48 at ASOS

So comfortable you could probably fall asleep in it—and cute enough that you could throw it under jeans and wear it to a bar.

Beach Riot Josie One-Piece, $62 at Revolve

Classic and totally photogenic, this one-piece is begging to be photographed.

Weekday Resort Capsule Swimsuit, $48 at ASOS

Why not buy a bathing suit that renders you a walking work of art?

Tularosa Kelsie Top, $36 at Revolve

Super cute—and the tan lines you’d get from that top are totally optimal (just, you know, move the tie).

Scoop Swimsuit, $15 at Topshop

Simple and statement-making, this one-piece is the perfect addition to any swimwear wardrobe.

Out from Under Pattern Tie-Front One-Piece Swimsuit, $49 at Urban Outfitters

Let’s keep the tropical print trend going well into 2019, shall we?

Vitamin A Mila Top, $110 at Revolve

Simple without skewing into boring territory, this bikini might just be a must-have.

Amuse Society Estelle One-Piece, $48 at Revolve

Everything about this swimsuit—from the color, to the shiny textile, to the side cut-outs—has me drooling (and whipping out my credit card).

Solkissed Samantha Bikini Bottom, $79 at Anthropologie

The Valentine’s palette on this one will make you feel less weird about shopping swimwear in February.

Plunging Halter One-Piece Swimsuit, $38 at Forever 21

It’s just so damn cute.

Beach Riot x Revolve Sophie Top, $68 at Revolve

Striped swimsuits are always fun. Always.

Amaio Jeanne One-Shoulder One-Piece Sqimsuit, $461 at Anthropologie

This hyper-elegant take on the one-piece is just waiting to be added to your closet.

Maternity Bunny-Tie Swimsuit, $35 at ASOS

Cute maternity swimsuits are in high supply right now, too.

Metallic One-Piece Swimsuit, $48 at Foreber 21

Turn heads by being the sparkliest one in the room—or in the pool.

Kopper and Zink Zahara Bikini Top, $63 at Revolve

These bikini bottoms are totally optimized for tan lines.

Green Gingham One-Piece, $55 at Topshop

The more gingham we can get our hands on, the better. Because gingham means spring.

Norma Kamali Stud Marissa Swimsuit, $575 at Revolve

For the beach-goer who can’t bear to part with maximalist embellishments—not even for a second.

Agua Bendita Celia Bikini Top, $110 at Revolve

Proof the smocked trend extends way beyond clothing. (The off-the-shoulder trend does, too.)

South Beach Tie-Shoulder High-Leg Swimsuit, $32 at ASOS

The tie-shoulder straps keeps this swimsuit from veering too basic.

Made by Dawn Petal Top, $164 at Revolve

The ruffles on this high-waisted bikini keep it feeling contemporary and on-trend.

Montce Swim Kim One-Piece Swimsuit, $198 at Urban Outfitters

OK, this one’s hot enough to wear to a bar.

Mara Hoffman Desa One-Piece, $101 at Revolve

Florals mean spring, and I need spring now.

Billabong Sol Dawn Scoop-Back One-Piece Swimsuit, $90 at Urban Outfitters

Need! More! Flowers!

Solid and Striped the Bridget Bikini Top, $59 at Revolve

Taste the rainbow—be the rainbow.

Strappy One-Piece Swimsuit, $24.90 at Forever 21

Your tan lines would get pretty weird, but you’d look hot wearing it, so who TF cares?

Mara Hoffman Rio Bikini Top, $145 at Anthropologie

OK, it’s become clear to me that I need Mara Hoffman to design every swimsuit I ever wear.

Nicholas Rainbow Stripe One-Piece, $83 at Revolve

This one’s super delightful—and it’d look great under shorts.

South Beach Scallop Edge Mix and Match Set, $47 at ASOS

Scalloped edges are a delightful addition to any swimsuit—especially super-cute bikinis.

Suboo the Chase Frill Scoop One-Piece, $220 at Revolve

Give us all the ruffles. We want them.

Lovers + Friends New Wave Top, $36 at Revolve

Haven’t you heard? Tie-dye is seriously in this year.

Tularosa Annie One-Piece, $138 at Revolve

Your favorite henley got rendered in swimsuit form.

Weekday Swimsuit, $32 at ASOS

Neons are back, baby. (Well, I guess they never actually left.)

Cali Dreaming Double Cap Top, $135 at Revolve

Gotta love a bikini you can thoroughly move around in.

Solid and Striped the Vera One-Piece, $118 at Revolve

It’s never too early to bust out the nautical vibes.

Strappy Ring Back Swimsuit, $26 at ASOS

Pairing jewelry with swimwear is generally ill-advised, but this one-piece would play seriously well with your favorite layered necklaces (and rings—and bracelets).

 

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17 Instagram-Worthy Jell-O Shot Recipes You Need for the 2019 Super Bowl

If I’m being honest, I never really got into Jell-O shots in college. They were always made with the worst possible vodka. Plus, they always stained my mouth, and their presentation—in a plastic shot glass, on a sticky beer pong table—wasn’t exactly tempting. Then in my mid-20s, a friend brought a tray of crazy-adorable strawberry margarita Jell-O shots to a party. Like, literally tequila jello served inside a strawberry, complete with a salt-sugar rim and tiny lime garnishes. This was before I had a Pinterest account, so it was news to me that Jell-O shot recipes that cute and fun existed. Needless to say, I was changed. (And I signed up for Pinterest.)

Since then, I’ve tried my hand at so many fun variations of this twee, crowd-pleasing edible shot. I’ve made lemon Jell-O shots in lemon slices, caramel Jell-O shots in apple slices and watermelon Jell-O shots in mini limes with black salt for seeds. I’ve even developed my own Jell-O shot recipe, which you’ll find below along with the aforementioned ones. (Spoiler alert: My recipe involves scooping the flesh out of an entire watermelon and filling it with super boozy Jell-O—reinforced with an extra package of unflavored gelatin so the slices actually stand up on their own. Trust me, they’re a really good conversation starter.)

So whether or not you’re already hip to the Insta-worthy Jell-O shot trend, you’d be a fool not to try one of the following 17 Jell-O shot recipes for your upcoming 2019 Super Bowl party. Because seriously, can you imagine a better occasion for Jell-O shots?

Delish.

New England Patriots Jell-O Shot

Yup, the Patriots are in the Super Bowl—again. Regardless of how you feel about that, one thing’s for sure: Every Super bowl party is made better by team-themed Jell-O shots. (Even if the team is the Patriots.)

Delish.

Los Angeles Rams Jell-O Shots

Because it’s way more fun to have Jell-O shots for both teams than it is to have Jell-O shots for just one. (Unless you’re a legitimate Patriots or Rams fan. In which case, you might want to stick to just Patriots Jell-O shots or just Rams Jell-O shots.)

Crafty Morning.

Pink Starburst Jell-O Shots

Whipped cream vodka, Cool Whip and strawberry Jell-O are the main ingredients in this Pink Starburst Jell-O shot recipe, which is just as good for a girls’ night in as a big party.

Tablespoon.

Spicy Bloody Mary Jell-O Shots

Craving something savory? These Bloody Mary Jell-O shots, made inside a tomato, are the perfect answer. If you want to really lean into the theme, go crazy with garnishes like celery, bacon, olives, cheese and maybe even some extra celery salt or horseradish.

Tablespoon.

Caramel Apple Pie Moonshine Jell-O Shots

If you really want to knock everybody’s socks off, serve them a Jell-O shot in a pie—specifically, a caramel apple pie Moonshine Jell-O shot in a pie.

Bread, Booze, Bacon.

Bomb Pop Jell-O Shots

It’s not the Fourth of July, I know, but the Super Bowl is still an American holiday. And seriously, do you even need an excuse to make these festive treats?

BuzzFeed.

XXL Watermelon Jell-O Shots

I’m partial to these huge, impressive watermelon Jell-O shots because, well, I wrote the original recipe. That also means that I can attest to how much your party guests will be talking about them for weeks afterward.

BuzzFeed.

Strawberry Margarita Jell-O Shots

You’ll need a melon baller, a little patience and probably some extra strawberries for this fun Jell-O shot recipe (because you’re bound to over-scoop a few), but it’s totally worth it. The process is multistep, but still beginner-friendly.

Crafty Morning.

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Jell-O Shots

Can’t decide whether to bring booze or dessert? This Jell-O shot recipe offers the perfect two-in-one.

Cookbook Community.

Fishbowl Jell-O Shots

I’m guessing you don’t have a bottle of blue curaçao on hand, but it’s definitely worth it to pick one up for these cute shots that also deliver the world’s best candy (in my opinion).

That’s So Michelle.

Caramel Apple Jell-O Shots

It’s not fall—and it’s not going to be fall again any time soon—but these sweet, totally edible caramel apple Jell-O shots are too good to wait for.

A Beautiful Mess.

Pink Lemonade Jell-O Shots

There’s nothing like cold lemonade on a hot day—or even on a cold one. The boozy Jell-O factor just makes these adorable shots that much better.

Kirbie’s Carvings.

Watermelon Tequila Jell-O Shots

If huge watermelon slice shots aren’t your style, these mini “watermelon” jello shots, made in lime peels, are a pretty adorable alternative.

Erica’s Sweet Tooth.

Swedish Fish Jell-O Shots

I’ve already mentioned that Swedish fish are my favorite candy, so it shouldn’t surprise you that I’m including these Swedish fish-shaped Jell-O shots, which you could honestly mistake for legit Swedish fish.

Crazy for Crust.

Lemon Cake Jell-O Shots

You probably already know that everything is better with sprinkles, but did you ever think to apply that knowledge to a Jell-O shot?

Meal Hack.

Lemon Meringue Jell-O Shots

Sweet, sour and with just enough vodka to make things fun.

Tablespoon.

Red, White and Blue Strawberry Jell-O Shots

These double-layer, triple-flavor shots are maximum Americana and, frankly, they put a traditional flag cake to shame.

 

A version of this story was originally published in August 2018.

17 Super Bowl Snacks You Can Make In a Slow-Cooker

The thing about throwing a Super Bowl party is that any interest in football is totally optional. Everyone knows these parties are mostly about the food (at least, that’s what I tell myself). As with any party, hosting is much easier if you pick a few recipes that can be made ahead of time. Luckily, there’s no shortage of slow-cooker Super Bowl recipes.

Hearty football snacks are great slow-cooker candidates in general. The braised meat of pulled pork or beef sliders is best done in the slow-cooker. Cheesy dips are easy to throw together in the slow-cooker, and it’s a great way to keep ’em warm well into overtime. And, there are plenty of less-obvious slow-cooker Super Bowl recipes that can add variety to your game day spread: homemade Chex mix, saucy meatballs and tasty chili—just to name a few.

Whether you’re hosting a party, heading to a potluck or just in need of something to snack on while you watch the game on your couch, these 17 slow-cooker Super Bowl recipes range from snack-y to meal-worthy. Even if you couldn’t care less about sports, these snacks will get you through the game.

Slow Cooker Gourmet.

Buffalo Chicken Chili

A bowl of this slow-cooker buffalo chicken chili is the perfect way to kick things off.

Well Plated.

Buffalo Chicken-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

This healthy-ish slow-cooker buffalo chicken sweet potato recipe is great for weeknight dinner, but it also packs enough of a punch to make a splash at your Super Bowl party.

Gimme Some Oven.

Chex Mix

The upside to making your own Chex mix is being able to control the levels of salt, spice and sweetness.

The Salty Marshmallow.

Sausage and Peppers

Nothing says ‘GAME TIME!’ like slow-cooker sausage and peppers served on a delicious roll.

Gimme Some Oven.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

No football party is complete without buffalo chicken dip. And really, every party is worse off without it.

Served Up With Love.

Chili Cheese Dogs

Make sure you have plenty of napkins around to deal with the hazards of these deliciously messy slow-cooker chili cheese dogs.

Girl Versus Dough.

Italian Meatballs

Serve up these slow-cooker Italian meatballs on slider rolls, with thick slices of French bread—or, you know, on their own.

Le Creme de la Crumb.

Copycat Chili’s Queso

This convincing copycat Chili’s queso might actually be more exciting than the game.

Mom Endeavors.

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

These sweet-salty slow-cooker pulled pork sliders work as an appetizer or a main course.

Spend With Pennies.

Buffalo Chicken Wings

You can never have too much buffalo sauce at a football party. Plus, chicken wings are the ultimate watch party food.

The Chunky Chef.

Taco Dip

Instead of taking up tons of space with an all-out taco bar, throw everything into a slow-cooker and serve up this taco dip.

Southern Living.

Beef Sliders with Pickled Peppers

Hearty dinner rolls are key to the success of these tender slow-cooker beef sliders with pickled peppers.

No Spoon Necessary.

Honey-Sriracha Little Smokies

Some people love serving tiny sausages on sticks at parties, some don’t. Either way, these slow-cooker honey-Sriracha little smokies are well worth a shot.

Garnish and Glaze.

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

I said there was no such thing as too much buffalo sauce, and I really meant it. These slow-cooker chicken sliders get a satisfying crunch from sliced cabbage, too.

Host the Toast.

Sticky Bacon-Whiskey Meatballs

Bacon? Check. Bourbon? Check. Meat? Check. Amazing that this tiny slow-cooker meatball dish can cover so many bases at once.

Plating Pixels.

Philly Cheesesteak Dip

Dip whatever starchy vessel you want into this slow-cooker Philly cheesesteak dip.

Plating Pixels.

Carnitas-Loaded Potato Skins

Bacon is a fine ingredient, but take things to the next level for the big came and fill your loaded potato skins with carnitas, instead.

The 7 Signs That Will Feel February’s New Moon the Most

A new moon in Aquarius is fast approaching—coming Monday, February 4. But which zodiac signs will be most affected by this new moon? We’re so glad you asked. Given that the new moon is in Aquarius, it stands to reason that all three air signs (Aquarius, Gemini, Libra) will be affected. Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) can expect similar awakenings and vibrations. And Virgo (an earth sign) can, as well.

These seven zodiac signs will receive renewed energy and a dose of bravery to help them speak their truth (a theme for the year, according to numerology), as well as express themselves creatively and meet their needs. That said, signs may find that their emotions are more conflicted or complicated than usual. Spending time with support systems and working through what you want and expect can help reduce fear, anger and indecision.

During February’s new moon, signs should hold off on making major life changes/decisions if at all possible. While new moons are a great opportunity to start new projects, I caution air signs to be think their ideas through before committing. Nothing is ever certain—but planning definitely helps. There’s a lot happening behind-the-scenes this month, and while forward motion isn’t visible, it’s absolutely present.

Aquarius (and the other air signs) is ruled by Uranus, well-known for its originality and independence. These traits will be magnified for the signs as they look toward the future. So strap yourself in as you prepare for a new chapter.

Getty Images. Design: Michaela Early/SheKnows.

Aquarius: January 20 – February 18

Good financial news is coming your way, sweet Aquarius. That loan you’re looking for, or raise, or second income is coming just in time. Be sure to treat yourself and celebrate the milestone—save something exorbitantly expensive like avocado toast—and then save the rest. Your retired self (and general peace of mind) will thank you. 

Getty Images. Design: Michaela Early/SheKnows.

Leo: July 23 – August 22

This new moon will lead to increased confidence and eloquence when communicating. Leo, it’s time to ask for exactly what you want. Don’t over-explain. Don’t feel the need to convince. Let the conviction and self-love in your words do the work.

Getty Images. Design: Michaela Early/SheKnows.

Gemini: May 21 – June 21

New life is on the horizon for you, Gemini. I know you love novelty and adventure. This month is a great time to make moves towards the bigger picture of what you want your life to be. This could be an out-of-state move, trying to conceive (omg BABIES!!), or getting an animal (omg, PUPPIES!!!). Just make sure you tell everyone where you’re registered.

Getty Images. Design: Michaela Early/SheKnows.

Libra: September 23 – October 22

Ooh, Libra. This month is spicy for you. This new moon will see a definite increase in your libido and passion. Lean into it. You deserve to feel desired and desirable. Enjoy the spike of confidence and ooh-la-la. There’s a lot to learn from your sexuality.

Getty Images. Design: Michaela Early/SheKnows.

Aries: March 21 – April 19

You may notice jealousy and trust issues more than usual this new moon, Aquarius. This is a great time to break a cycle in your relationships that no longer serves you. Dig to the root of why you are jealous, or why you can’t trust someone. What’s missing in your life that has you wanting? Once you know the answer, you’re halfway there.

Getty Images. Design: Michaela Early/SheKnows.

Sagittarius: Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

This new moon, take your wanderlust to a new level with internal travel, Sagittarius. It’s not about planning, making decisions or booking a ticket to the Maldives. Ask yourself big questions, and don’t be afraid if you don’t know the answers. What do you want your life to look like in 10 years? What do you need in a partner? What will you miss most about your mother after she passes? These questions are soul-seeds. Plant them.

Getty Images. Design: Michaela Early/SheKnows.

Virgo: August 23 – September 22

Expect to be surrounded by a warm glow of nesting and feminine energy this new moon, lovely Virgo. You’ve been grounded in masculine energy for a while, and now it’s time to explore the softer side of femininity. Regardless of which (if any) gender you identify with, femininity can be powerful and enduring. Just like you!

So enjoy the new moon and all of the energies and questions it will bring you. All of the answers are already inside you. Pause. Listen closely. That little voice that is so easily drowned out with existential noise and brands and you’re-not-enough-yet might get a little louder. I wonder what it’ll say.