12 Flats We Love in Protest of Cannes’ No-Flats Policy

The Cannes Film Festival stirred up quite the controversy this past weekend when reports flooded in that several attendees were turned away from a screening of Carol (starring Cate Blanchett) for wearing flats. A spokesperson for the festival denied the reports, stating that they were “unfounded.” While there is no official regulation on heel height, the esteemed and star-studded festival does require formalwear for all screenings. As expected, tons of people, celebrities included, have taken to social media to share their outrage on the flat/heel policy. Emily Blunt responded, “I think everyone should wear flats, to be honest. We shouldn’t wear high heels anymore. That’s just my point of view. I prefer to wear Converse sneakers. That’s very disappointing.”

1. ASOS Lower Pointed Double Strap Ballet Flats ($40): With its dainty double ankle strap and dreamy pastel color, you’ll want to wear these all summer long no matter if the occasion calls for a day dress or cutoffs.

2. & Other Stories Pointy Leather Flats ($120): These are NOT your average D’Orsay flats. From the cutouts to the patent detailing to the chic color blocking, they’re the definition of next-level footwear.

3. Sam Edelman Augusta Flats ($100): These are the sweetest scalloped flats, especially in that shimmery rose gold finish. A must for any girly girl.

4. Rebecca Minkoff Macy Cutout Tassel Loafers ($193): Whether you’re wearing a tailored two-piece suit or a fit-and-flare dress, metallic loafers add just the right amount of masculine flair.

5. Zara Flat Leather Slippers ($60): Flats don’t get sleeker than this. Try not to swoon as you imagine them on a minimalist dresser like Rooney Mara.

6. Steve Madden Euphoria ($70): Geometric cutouts make these springy flats year round-worthy (summer and winter whites FTW!).

7. Sole Society Chandler T-flats ($46): These strappy flats are the perfect combination of edgy and feminine. The rich plum color is extremely versatile, not to mention to die for.

8. Romwe Navy With Rivet Suede Flats ($29): Brassy studs give a wink of rock and roll flair to these sleek slippers. We’re dying to wear them with culottes during the work week and skinny jeans on the weekends.

9. Forever 21 Faux Patent Leather Flats ($25): These chunky ankle strap flats are definitely for cool girls only. We’re imagining Kate Bosworth rocking these with a frosty slip dress or a button-front A-line skirt.

10. Jeffrey Campbell Shay Lace Up Flat ($130): The latest trend to make us swoon? Lace-up anything — and these shoes are no exception. The pastel hue gives us major ballerina vibes with a fashion-forward touch that looks just as good with jeans as your LBD.

11. French Sole Noir Polka Dot Mesh Flat ($188): Preppy in all the right places, these polka dot peep toes will give you all the incentive to pamper yourself with a pedi that matches your purse.

12. M. Gemi The Cara ($198): You will be the life of the party in these shiny holographic slingbacks that will chic up an all-black outfit like that.

What are your thoughts on the heels controversy at Cannes? Tell us in the comments!

(Feature photo via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

Tenniscore fashion is on the rise – but what is it? In a post-Challengers, pre-summer Olympics world, tenniscore means taking your typical athleisure to the next level.

Tennis as a whole has a very distinctive uniform, and the fashion world has realized that a lot of what’s worn on the court can also stun off of it.

This trend revival is private country club luxury at its core (very Meredith Blake from The Parent Trap), but it’s not so exclusive now. With big brands like Target, H&M, andFree People taking on tenniscore, everyone can sport it.

Tenniscore is primarily pleated skorts, polos, sporty white dresses, striped sweatervests, thick headbands, and sleek sneakers. I’ve rounded up 17 comfy-chic (and affordable) styles to help you get the look!

Gold Hinge Steel Pleated Tennis Skirt

Pleats are a quintessential part of tenniscore. Super-fine pleats (like the ones on this skort from Gold Hinge) are totally the way to go if you wanna nail the trend. This pick features stretchy spandex shorts underneath for added coverage, pockets on both sides, quick-dry fabric, and an adorable drop-waist detail to further flatter your figure.

The Pleated Tennis Skirt goes for $49. It is available in 21 different colors and sizes XS-XXL.

Free People Movement One More Serve Skortsie

What's better than a skort? A skort dress. This one from Free People is an absolute serve, boasting a playful strappy back and contrasting trim that'll have all eyes on you! The built-in shelf bra and shorts deem this tenniscore piece a true one-and-done since you won't need to layer anything underneath.

The One More Serve Skortsie comes in 9 colors and sizes XS-XL for $128.

Lou & Grey Sporty Mesh Zip Sweater

This luxe-looking $48 sweater recalls the sport with a fine mesh knit, cap sleeves, and a pointy collar that zips up. The stark white color is tenniscore's perfect match, as a lot of the aesthetic leans into opulence, and therefore, cleanliness. The wider waistband can be worn tucked in or outside of skirts or shorts, depending on your preference.

This Lou & Grey Sporty Mesh Zip Sweater is on sale for $48 (was $80) and is available in sizes XXS-XXL.

Golden Hour Santa Barbara Tennis Association Cotton Graphic Baby Tee

If you're a bit unsure about going full-out into tenniscore with a short pleated skirt, ease into the aesthetic by sporting something more subtle, like this graphic baby tee! The illustrative lettering on the front feels opulent as ever, even though this is a super-cozy and casual style you could wear every single day.

This tee is currently on sale at Nordstrom for $10 (was $24) and is shoppable in sizes XS-XL.

Abercrombie & Fitch YPB sculptLUX Polo Mini Dress

The polo collar! The zipper! The sporty material! This butter yellow dress from Abercrombie & Fitch has it all. It's crafted from their sculptLUX active fabric, which is designed to hold you in and sculpt your bod in the best ways. The half-zip detail along the neckline allows you to get a lil' cheeky with your look, too. This mini features built-in shorts so you can feel appropriately covered up when you're on the go.

The Polo Mini Dress is available in three other easy-to-match colors and sizes XXS-XXL for $80.

Adidas Gazelle Sneakers

Any tenniscore 'fit absolutely warrants a sporty sneaker to match, and the Adidas Gazelles answer that call to a tee. The flat soles echo that of technical tennis shoes that the pros wear, while the rest of the silhouette aligns with the modern shoe trends we're seeing today. The triple-striped design on the sides is undeniably iconic, too!

The Adidas Gazelle sneakers come in 16 other color combos for $120.

Venus Williams x Bombas Quarter Sock 3-Pack

You'll surely need some socks to pair with your tenniscore-approved shoes, and there's no question that these Bombas ones made in collaboration with *the* Venus Williams are the ones to snag! Venus employed her pro-level understanding of the sport to create these practical socks that boast strategic cushioning, arch support, and a sweat-wicking material to leave you with a cozy step – on and off the court.

This 3-pack of socks goes for $57 and is currently available in sizes S and M.

H&M Oversized Sports Sweatshirt

For the perfect sporty outer layer to work, it needs to breathe. Luckily, this oversized pullover from H&M boasts a fast-drying cotton fabrication that surrounds the entire look. Casual dropped shoulders and long cuffed sleeves add to the laid-back vibe of tenniscore, and the front even boasts a motivational message – "move" – to keep you going!

The Oversized Sports Sweatshirt is shoppable in 4 other colors and sizes XS-XXL for $35.

Gold Hinge Bone 2-Toned Tiered Pleated Tennis Skirt

This tennis skirt is uniquely designed with a more scalloped hem –rather than a straight one – which provides ample coverage for your every move! The two-toned colorway adds some visual interest without feeling too out-of-place, plus this pick has built-in spandex shorts with pockets for conveniently storing your phone and other courtside essentials.

The Tiered Pleated Tennis Skirt is $54 and shoppable in sizes XS-XXL.

Prince Pickleball Cable Knit Cardigan

Target recently collaborated with Prince for a very tenniscore fashion collection, and it's everything! This cable knit cardi is a definite staple for rocking the sporty trend on chilly days. The buttoned front allows you to wear this cropped cardigan buttoned up or unbuttoned, or you could tie this striped baby around your shoulders for a true touch of luxury! The blue and red stripes are so classic, too.

The Prince Pickleball Cable Knit Cardigan comes in sizes XS-XXL for $40.

Kate Spade New York Sweetheart Delicate Cubic Zirconia Tennis Bracelet

I love a tennis bracelet as much as the next person, but I don't always love how expensive they are. Luckily, this gold-plated design from Kate Spade is fairly priced at $128, and it has adorable little hearts instead of the classic square cut. It clasps easily around the wrist with a tongue-and-groove closure, so it'll stay on when you're out and about (or even making moves on the tennis court)!

Adidas Originals Cotton Blend French Terry Shorts

These terry shorts host a very vintage feel, which pairs excellently well with more nostalgic tenniscore pieces, like a polo tank or sweater vest! The Adidas logo and side stripes really seal the deal on the sheer sportiness of these bottoms as well. The elastic waistband hits high on the body, securing further with a drawstring.

The Adidas Originals Cotton Blend French Terry Shorts go for $45 at Nordstrom and are available in sizes XS-XL.

Athleta Momentum Seamless Polo Tank

This Athleta polo tank is clean, sleek, and summery – perfect for nailing down the more luxe side of tenniscore! It flaunts a seamless construction to ensure total comfort when you're wearing it. The silhouette is designed to fit snugly against your body, though take note that the fabric is fairly see-through. You'll likely need a racerback sports bra for extra coverage and support!

The Momentum Seamless Polo Tank costs $55 and is shoppable in sizes XXS-XL.

Prince Pickleball Cross-Back Pleated Dress

The contrasting white lining that adorns this sporty dress looks just like the lines on a tennis court. Your look will be a great match for, well, your next match! This wide-pleated, strappy-back mini is an easy 'pull on and go' type piece that'll look stunning for every outdoor occasion. It even comes in a bright red color that your doubles partner could twin in!

The Prince Pickleball Cross-Back Pleated Dress is available in sizes XS-XXL for $40.

Prince Pickleball Woven Mid-Rise Shorts

These mid-rise shorts feel oh-so 70's, and I am obsessed with the stark color blocking between the hem and the rest of the piece. They're an easy on-and-off, boasting a wide elastic waistband. They're made from a "sporty tech poplin" that emphasizes the utmost breathability.

The Prince Pickleball Woven Mid-Rise Shorts cost $30 and come in sizes XS-XXL.

Oomiay Tennis Huggie Earring

Turn your accessory game to total tenniscore with this sweet racket earring! The tiny charm dangles delicately from a snapping hoop, helping you step up your serve even more. This $55 piece is sold in one piece (as opposed to a pair, with two pieces), but when you bundle 3 or more Oomiay jewelry pieces, each one is just $33.

Girlfriend Collective Riley Sweetheart Dress

The compressive unitard lining under this athletic mini dress keeps your look collected and expertly sculpted, no matter what movements you're doing. The sweetheart neckline and strappy back elevate it to be more fashion-forward, so you could easily dress it up further with more formal outerwear and accessories.

The Girlfriend Collective Riley Sweetheart Dress comes in 5 colors total and sizes XXS-6XL for $88.

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I never thought we'd get a Taylor Swift album with multiple songs referencing Matty Healy, but after multiple listens, the internet is convinced The Tortured Poets Department(the first edition, at least) has a ton of references to The 1975 frontman. (Only time will tell if TS12 references Matty too!) One song in particular has sent everyone into a tizzy: "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived." Here's why fans think the song is about Taylor Swift & Matty Healy.

What has Matty Healy said about "The Tortured Poets Department"?

Image via Mauricio Santana/Getty Images

When asked what he'd rate his "diss track" from The Tortured Poets Department, Matty admits he hasn't actually listened to that much of the album yet (if he ever will). "My diss track? Oh!" he laughs. "I haven't really listened to that much of it, but I'm sure it's good."

Debbie Dedes, Matty's aunt, speculated right after the album drop that he wouldn't be affected too much by the music. “She writes about all her relationships, doesn't she? I don't think it will come as a shock to him at all,” she tells The Daily Mail. “He's very happy in his new relationship [with Gabbriette Bechtel] so I'm sure he will be focusing on that.”

Is "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived" about Taylor Swift & Matty Healy?

Image via Francois Durand/Getty Images For Christian Dior

While Taylor Swift & Matty Healy never publicly dated until 2023, they were friends for years before that. In 2014, Taylor Swift went to her first The 1975 concert with Selena Gomez and Ellie Goulding. Then, Taylor was seen wearing one of their band shirts while Matty was spotted in a 1989 shirt. "I met Taylor Swift," Matty told Shazam Top 20 in November (via E! News). "That was really nice. We exchanged numbers. Let's see what happens."

Matty Healy & Taylor Swift continued referencing each other over the next couple years, and fans lost their minds when Matty revealed he'd collaborated on a Midnights song — even if he went on to say it was cut. After Taylor Swift performed "Anti-Hero" during a 1975 concert, and then split from boyfriend Joe Alwyn split in the spring of 2023, Taylor & Matty quickly connected. They went on to date from May to June. That brings us to "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived."

In the song, Taylor wonders if "rusting my sparkling summer was the goal" and talks about "your Jehovah's Witness suit" (Matty is famous for wearing suits during his concerts). She also mentions how the relationship "wasn't sexy once it wasn't forbidden" — which totally ties into the themes within "Guilty As Sin?" (about imaginary trysts she thought about while dating someone else).

"[These Matty Healy-focused songs] started out being like 'f*ck all of you, I love him, I’ll fix him, I don’t care what you say' to ending here basically saying 'alright yeah this guy sucks,'" one Reddit user says. "I think the order of these songs plays a huge role in this throughline of that relationship."

"Heavyweight rappers J. Cole, Drake, and Rick Ross all released diss tracks over the last couple of weeks, and none of them were as scathing as this one," another says.

How long did Taylor Swift and Matty Healy date?

Image via Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

While Taylor Swift & Matty Healy officially dated during the summer of 2023, another song on TTPD, "Fresh Out The Slammer" makes me think they connected before then. Referring to her relationship as a jail, she sings about how she's connected with this person before she started dating her ex. "I'm runnin' back home to you // Frеsh out the slammer // I know who my first call will be to." (Does this mean "Illicit Affairs" from Folklore is actually about Matty Healy too?)

What other The Tortured Poets Department songs are about Matty Healy?

Image via Francois Durand/Getty Images For Christian Dior

It looks like "Fortnight," "The Tortured Poets Department," "I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can)," and "loml" are just a few of the songs that could be about Taylor Swift & Matty Healy's relationship.

The "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived" Lyrics

Image via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Verse 1: Was any of it true? // Gazing at me starry-eyed // In your Jehovah's Witness suit // Who the f-ck was that guy? // You tried to buy some pills // From a friend of friends of mine // They just ghosted you // Now you know what it feels like

Chorus: And I don't even want you back, I just want to know // If rusting my sparkling summer was the goal // And I don't miss what we had, but could someone give // A message to the smallest man who ever lived?

Verse 2: You hung me on your wall // Stabbed me with your push pins // In public, showed me off // Then sank in stoned oblivion // 'Cause once your queen had come // You'd treat her likе an also-ran // You didn't measure up // In any measurе of a man

Chorus: And I don't even want you back, I just want to know // If rusting my sparkling summer was the goal // And I don't miss what we had, but could someone give // A message to the smallest man who ever lived?

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Bridge: Were you sent by someone who wanted me dead? // Did you sleep with a gun underneath our bed? // Were you writin' a book? Were you a sleeper cell spy? // In fifty years, will all this be declassified? // And you'll confess why you did it and I'll say, "Good riddance" // 'Cause it wasn't sexy once it wasn't forbidden // I would've died for your sins, instead, I just died inside // And you deserve prison, but you won't get time // You'll slide into inboxes and slip through the bars // You crashed my party and your rental car // You said normal girls were boring // But you were gone by the morning // You kicked out the stage lights, but you're still performing

Outro: And in plain sight you hid // But you are what you did // And I'll forget you, but I'll never forgive // The smallest man who ever lived

Tell us your hottest Taylor Swift & Matty Healy take on Facebook, then read up on The Taylor Swift Boyfriends You Love, And The Ones You Didn't Know She Dated.

Lead images via Francois Durand/Getty Images For Christian Dior/Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

This post has been updated.

The birds are chirping, the grass is getting greener, and the sun is starting to feel warmer; so obviously the girlies are putting on their cutest sundresses. We don’t make the rules – but as soon as the temperature outside creeps above 60 degrees, you have your kitchen windows open in the afternoon, and unexpectedly find yourself baking more than usual it’s simply a right of passage that your wardrobe has to transition from sweaters and comfy pants to flowy, airy maxis and minis alike.

Sundresses are the ultimate springtime uniform. While they make you look more put together than meets the eye, the coquette nature of this dressing trend is way more relaxed than you would imagine. At a glance, you’re absolutely elegant, when in reality, you saved so much time getting ready in the morning because instead of formulating an entire outfit, you only had to put on one article of clothing before walking out the door for the day.

With wearability from day to night, the versatility of a sundress makes it an outfit that you can wear on repeat so long as the weather permits. Finding an option that you feel most comfortable in is essential for ensuring that you can ditch pant legs for a few months and feel like you fit in with the cast of Little Women. Whether you prefer a prairie-style white midi dress, or a loud floral print, we’ve found the best summer sundress for you available to shop in our picks below.

Shop Sundresses Here!

Praerie Julia Dress

If you’re leaning into your Deeper Well era this summer, look no further than this flowy maxi dress that’s fit for Ms. Kacey Musgraves herself. Whether you plan to frolic through a field, embrace your inner coquette cowgirl, or simply want to lounge at home while feeling more luxurious than usual, this cotton schiffli piece needs a home in your closet.

Current Air Floral Puff Sleeve Dress

The 80s are back, baby! This loudly printed dress is bright and beautiful in all its puff-sleeved glory. You can dress it down with some sweet sneakers, but we do love a strappy sandal moment like above, too! This open back beauty is on sale from $125 to $100.

Hutch Bandeau Romper

If you are worried about chafing in a dress, or an unexpected gust of wind, this loose-fitting romper is a perfect alternative to a traditional sundress. Because it’s so flowy, it gives the illusion of being a mini dress and is offered in 3 different lively prints that are perfect for spring and summer.

Hollister Channeled Open Back Skort Dress

In more romper goodness, this little number from Hollister is everything. The open back makes it even more breathable, while the corset-esque top gives you that romantic, Bridgerton vibe that's so fun for the summer! Content Editor Haley Sprankle has this in blue, and she definitely recommends!

Knyt Studios Long Sleeve Scarlett Maxi Dress

After stumbling upon this sophisticated knit maxi dress, it was immediately added-to-cart. The material is airy enough that you’ll be cool enough to wear this gorgeous piece during the day, and the open back also contributes to temperature control, while also bringing a sexy element to this sundress which makes it the perfect day-to-night option.

Hollister Chiffon On-Or-Off Mini Dress

Hollister does it again with this versatile mini dress! Haley just recently wore hers in Paris, and it was the loveliest little dress to walk around all day and still look cute in! You can just grab your adorable arch-support Rothy's or your fave sneakers and go with this stunner!

Varley Maple Dress

Ever wish you could leave the house in only your favorite oversized tee and call it a day? Thanks to Varley, now you can — and in style, too. Made from the brand’s signature DoubleSoft fabric, you’ll experience unmatched comfort in this above-the-knee dress that also features a waist cinch with toggles, seam detailing, and pockets (score!).

Abercrombie Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

Another Haley fave, she told me this silhouette from Abercrombie is the most flattering of any dress she owns. This blue toile pattern is lovely for spring and summer, but they have other options like sage green floral or black-and-white polka dots.

Altar'd State Addison Floral Maxi Dress

Florals for spring? Groundbreaking! We love the details on this cheery warm-weather maxi; bow shoulder ties, a smocked bodice, and a sweetheart neckline have us dreaming of sun-kissed days and breezy nights in this dress.

Free People Feeling Bonita Midi

As the name suggests, this sundress will have you feeling bonita. There are truly endless ways to wear this backless midi dress; try it as a beach coverup, a casual lunchtime outfit, or as your uniform for vineyard visits this summer. With 7 different colorway options, there’s something for everyone.

American Eagle Puff Sleeve Button-Up Mini Dress

We love this dress for spring and summer jaunts – priced at $50 it won’t break the bank and the design of the silhouette is intentionally flattering. Buttons down the front and a shorter hemline give the illusion of long legs, while a tie at the back of the dress works to cinch your waist. This vintage-inspired number is so easy to feel dressed up in while maintaining comfort during long wear times.

Abercrombie Traveler Mini Dress

Attention all active girlies, you’re going to want this dress. Different than other workout dresses on the market, Abercrombie’s Traveler dress disguises itself as a sundress that feels a bit more formal thanks to elevated floral, polka dot, and striped prints. Whether brushing up on your pickleball skills or afternoon happy hours are on your summer bucket list this summer, the multifunctionality of this active dress with built-in shorts is unmatched.

Target Women's Maxi Sundress - A New Day

Affordable and size-inclusive, this sundress is only $40 and offered in a size range of XS to 4XL. Thanks to the supportive smocked bust, you can opt to go bra-less in this plunging, spaghetti-strapped maxi dress. Offered in classic black, and an electric green, we love the ease of this dress – did we mention it has pockets, too? Talk about bang for your buck!

Abercrombie Emerson Tie Strap Maxi Dress

In case it's not clear, we're big fans of bows over here — especially as a statement detail on a dress! This simple cut is great for all your springtime soirees and summer picnics! It comes in a black-and-white floral as well, but if a pattern isn't your speed, you can snag this in a bold red instead.

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Header image via Free People

As cute and clever as store-bought greeting cards are, there's something incredibly thoughtful that can be felt in a homemade birthday card from a friend or loved one. Not only does the act of creating DIY birthday cardsgive you the chance to slow down from the business of life and reflect on what you cherish most about the people you're celebrating, but the one-of-a-kind touch will be super memorable for your recipients as well.

Even if you're not the craftiest person, don't fret, because we've put together a straightforward guide on how to craft your own DIY birthday card for your besties and S.O.'s. Step into the world of DIY magic as we embark on a quest to create birthday cards that will leave your recipients in awe. From unexpected pop-up surprises to mind-bending interactive features, discover fresh ways to make birthday cards burst with fun and excitement. Prepare to unleash your inner artist as we dive into all the tips to help you craft unique and captivating birthday cards. And keep reading for some thoughtful text ideas to ensure that your birthday wishes are just as fun as the card design they're on.

Step 1: Gather Your DIY Birthday Card Supplies

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Before embarking on your DIY birthday card adventure, gathering all the necessary supplies is essential. A well-prepared crafter is a confident crafter! So, let's make sure you have everything you need to bring your imaginative card ideas to life.

  1. Start with colored cardstock or paper as the foundation of your cards. Choose a variety of vibrant hues to suit different themes and moods. Scissors are your trusty sidekick, enabling you to precisely cut out shapes, create borders, and trim your cardstock.
  2. Grab glue or adhesive tape to hold everything together securely. Opt for a glue stick for a mess-free experience or double-sided tape for a clean and seamless finish.
  3. Round up all the art supplies you have, from markers and colored pencils, or pens. These magical tools will be your gateway to adding personalized messages, whimsical doodles, and vibrant colors to your DIY creations.
  4. Stock up on a dazzling array of embellishments for an added dose of flair and personality. Let your creativity soar as you explore the boundless possibilities of stickers, sequins, ribbons, twines, buttons, beads, and more. Watch your creations come alive with vibrant colors, textures, and eye-catching details. With these delightful elements at your fingertips, there's no limit to the magic your birthday cards can be infused with.

Step 2: Choose Your Card Design

Image via George Dolgikh/Pexels

The card design will function as the first impression that sets the tone for the entire experience. A well-designed card can evoke emotions ranging from joy and excitement to nostalgia and warmth, leaving friends and family in awe of the thoughtful gesture.

Handmade Watercolor Design:

Express your artistic side by creating a handmade watercolor masterpiece for a genuinely one-of-a-kind birthday card. Start with a blank cardstock or watercolor paper as the base, and let your creativity flow. Use watercolors to paint a vibrant and personalized design, such as flowers, balloons, or a recipient's favorite hobby or color palette. Add a heartfelt birthday message inside to complete the card.

Pop-Up Surprise:

Add an element of surprise and delight to your card with a pop-up feature. Cut out a simple pop-up mechanism using cardstock or colored paper and attach it to the inside of the card. Then, unleash your creativity by designing and cutting out fun shapes, such as cakes, candles, or balloons, and attach them to the pop-up mechanism. When the card is opened, the surprise element will make the birthday celebration of your loved one even more memorable.

Quilled Creations:

Quilling is a paper art technique that involves rolling and shaping thin paper strips to create intricate designs. Use quilling techniques to create beautiful and delicate patterns, flowers, or even personalized messages on your birthday cards. Experiment with different colors and shapes to bring your design to life and make it truly unique. The recipient will appreciate the time and effort put into crafting such an elegant and artistic card.

Hand-Stitched Greeting:

Consider incorporating those skills into your DIY card if you enjoy sewing or embroidery. Use a needle and thread to create hand-stitched designs or patterns on fabric or cardstock. You can stitch the recipient's name, a birthday message, or even cute motifs like balloons or cupcakes. The texture and charm of a hand-stitched card will make it a cherished keepsake.

Interactive Slider Card:

Create an interactive slider card to take your birthday card to the next level. Use cardstock to make a slider mechanism that reveals a hidden message or image as it is pulled. Write a heartfelt message or attach a memorable photo that slides out when the recipient pulls the tab. This interactive element adds a playful touch to your card and makes it truly engaging.

Step 3: Write A Clever Message

Image via June/Pexels

Elevate your birthday card by personalizing it with a heartfelt note to enrich the receiver's experience. Share warm wishes, inside jokes, or memories that make the card even more special and meaningful. Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas for what to write inside your DIY birthday card!
  1. "Happy birthday, queen of the hashtags! May your day be as fabulous as your Instagram feed."
  2. "You're the avocado to my toast, the squad to my goals. Happy birthday, superstar!"
  3. "It's your birthday, so let's turn up the 'Lit' level and celebrate like it's 1999... or 2023!"
  4. "Birthdays are nature's way of telling us to eat more cake. Enjoy your special day!"
  5. "May your birthday be filled with good vibes and a bottomless brunch. Cheers to another fabulous year!"
  6. "Sending you birthday wishes with all the heart emojis. You deserve all the love and happiness today and always."
  7. "Happy birthday to my favorite extremely online friend. May your Wi-Fi always be strong and your battery never die."
  8. "Time to celebrate another trip around the sun. Let's make this year even more epic than the last!"
  9. "You're not getting older, you're leveling up! Happy birthday, gamer!"
  10. "Happy birthday, trendsetter! May your day be filled with selfie-worthy moments and viral-worthy adventures."

Step 4: Add The Perfect Finishing Touch

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As a bonus, consider creating a DIY envelope to complete the package. Choose decorative paper or repurpose materials like magazine pages or fabric scraps to craft a unique envelope that adds creativity and thoughtfulness to your handmade card. Personalize it by adding hand-drawn designs, stamps, or calligraphy for an extra special touch.

So, there you have it! DIY birthday cards offer endless possibilities for fun, creativity, and the chance to unleash your imagination. With just a few simple steps, you can create customized and sincere cards that will bring joy to your loved ones on their special day. Remember, the beauty of DIY is that there are no limits or rules. Let your creativity run wild, experiment with different techniques, colors, and textures, and, most importantly, have fun. Happy crafting!

For more crafty ideas, check out all of our DIY ideas on Brit + Co.

Paleodesserts typically avoid processed ingredients, grains, dairy products, and refined sugars – but that doesn’t mean they have to be bad. Sure, they primarily focus on using whole foods, but there are tons of paleo desserts out there that don’t feel like you’re eating on a diet at all.

Common ingredients in paleo desserts include almond flour, coconut flour, coconut oil, dates, and various fruits like berries or bananas. You can feel really good about eating these 11 paleo desserts. They’re nutrient-dense and perfectly sweet! From snack-sized bites to fully-fledged cakes, we’ve got you covered.

Paleo Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cookies are superior when it comes to paleo desserts, or any desserts for that matter. These addictive bites take on the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate, all without leaning on process ingredients! (via Brit + Co)

Cherry-Cranberry Almond Paleo Scones

These paleo scones are just as good as the ones you'd snag from your local coffee shop. Cherries and cranberries dot the sweet dough for a fresh touch, plus there's a delicious cranberry glaze to top it all off! These paleo desserts would work so well for serving a large party crowd – or, you could save the leftovers all for yourself. (via Brit + Co)

Fudgy Paleo Brownies

Though you might assume paleo desserts say 'no' to chocolate, this brownie recipe will instantly prove you wrong. The batter, made primarily from almond flour, coconut flour, and cocoa powder, gets balanced out in terms of moisture with coconut oil, eggs, and maple syrup. Dark chocolate is the key to this dessert's success! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Paleo Gummy Bears

Our list of paleo desserts wouldn't be complete without the more fruity snacks! These paleo-friendly gummy bears only require three ingredients and a gummy bear mold with a dropper. You can make any flavor you want depending on the type of fruit juice you use – just make sure it's labeled “not from concentrate” and is organic to abide by the paleo guidelines. (via Clean Cuisine)

Berry Paleo Banana Bread with Lemon Glaze

Banana bread is the ultimate treat you can snack on in the morning, afternoon, and at night. This paleo version is doctored up with even more healthy stuff like three types of berries and an addictively tart lemon glaze. Swoon! (via The Endless Meal)

Coconut-Coated No-Bake Energy Bites

For paleo desserts that you *don't* have to actually bake, energy bites are the sweetest solution. These can be crafted within minutes using a short list of ingredients: prunes (healthy fiber FTW!), almonds, chia seeds, and surprisingly, orange juice! Pop one in your mouth for a workday snack, or wait for bedtime to indulge in this daily sweet treat. (via Live Eat Learn)

Raw Chocolate Avocado Pudding

This spoonable paleo dessert is also plant-based, gluten-free, and made with 5 ingredients. The creamy base is made with 2 ripe avocados, which get masked with the flavors of cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and the natural sweetener of your choice. (via Veggie Society)

Paleo Coconut Cream Pie

You may be a bit skeptical at just how good a keto, paleo, vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free pie could really taste, but we promise this one is ahh-mazing. The coconut flour, coconut milk, coconut whipping cream, and *actual* shredded coconut form the signature flavor without taking over too strongly. You'll wanna eat slice after slice! (via No Eggs or Ham)

Paleo Thin Mints

Wanna enjoy your fave Girl Scout cookies year-round? Look no further than these paleo thin mints that incorporate the minty, chocolatey flavors you love, without any harmful additives. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Paleo + Vegan Caramel Apple Slices

Us any apple variety you love alongside some melted dark chocolate and caramel to create these mouthwatering apple slice pops. You can go crazy with with topping 'em with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and the like, but it's really up to you on how to best enjoy them. (via Rachel Mansfield)

4-Ingredient Chocolate Chia Pudding

This chocolatey chia pudding is too tasty. With an ample serving of chia seeds, cocoa powder, almond milk, and maple syrup, this is a certifiably healthy paleo dessert. (via Two Spoons)

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