10 Creativity Quotes to Kick Off Your Year

For many of us, 2017 was a doozy, but we here at Brit + Co are ready to hit refresh in 2018! Follow our Hit Refresh series through January for new ideas, hacks, and skills that will help you achieve (and maintain!) those New Year’s resolutions.

If accessing your creative side is one of your priorities for this year, it’s important to have plenty of inspiration on hand to keep you feeling encouraged in all projects you decide to pursue. Whether you want to polish your creative writing skills or DIY chic necklaces, it will only pay off to have some extra creative wisdom behind you. Keep reading for 10 quotes about creativity that will motivate you even when you’re in the post-holiday slump.

1. “Creativity is intelligence having fun.” Take your smarts and add a little whimsy! As you pursue creative challenges this year, don’t be afraid to be silly and have fun. When you begin to take yourself too seriously, you can limit the scope of your ideas.

2. “I feel there is nothing more artistic than loving people.” Building meaningful relationships is just as much an artistic outlet as painting or music — the great artist Vincent van Gogh said so himself. If you’re still figuring out your creative strengths, start with the people you love. Look for opportunities to thoughtfully and creatively express yourself to them. It will be a great way to practice taking a fresh approach to things!

3. “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” As soon as you start to believe that the bounds of your creativity are limited, you may start making excuses for not getting started on new projects and endeavors. Trust your potential for endless creativity. You’ve got this, girl.

4. “Thinking ‘here goes nothing’ could be the start of everything.” Getting started with something new and creative is often just a matter of jumping in and not overthinking it. If you have an idea, stop questioning and analyzing, and just do it! Having the confidence to simply give it a try could lead to your next awesome accomplishment.

5. “Working hard for something we don’t care about is called stress. Working hard for something we love is called passion.” Stay tuned into where you’re directing your energy. If you’re feeling more work stress than usual, consider balancing out those negative vibes by investing extra effort in a creative passion. Unfortunately, some stress is probably unavoidable, but it may be possible to improve your headspace by also working hard at something that’s genuinely important to you.

6. “Your own reasons to make are reason enough. Create whatever causes a revolution in your heart.” You don’t need to justify your passions to anyone, and if you feel inspired to pursue something creative, there’s no reason to rationalize it. Your interest (and Elizabeth Gilbert‘s blessing) is reason enough to go forward!

7. “There’s the whole world at your feet.” Who better to take advice from than everyone’s favorite whimsical nanny? Let’s all remember Mary Poppins’ words of encouragement any time we sense boundaries to our creativity and achievement.

8. “The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.” The first rule of being creative? Stop questioning yourself. Constantly doubting your ideas and abilities could cause you to hold back your passions from the world — and it would be a shame for the world to miss out on what you can create!

9. “Find three hobbies you love: one to make you money, one to keep you in shape and one to be creative.” We love this quote because it’s a great reminder that finding a hobby that allows you to be creative is just as important as paying the bills and staying fit. Keep this advice in mind as you start making goals and plans for the rest of the year. Pursuing good health and a promotion are great resolutions, but it’s just as important to build time into your routine for creative expression.

10. “Creativity takes courage.” Be brave! Only you can take the first steps toward making creativity a priority in the coming months. Don’t be afraid to set yourself apart from others by chasing your passions and interests.

What words inspire you to be creative? Tweet us @BritandCo!

(Design: Rosee Canfield)

Listen – we love ketchup, mayo, mustard, and all your other favorite condiments– by no means are we suggesting that mayo doesn’t have a place in BLTs and potato salad recipes. But, if you haven’t tried aioli — a popular dipping sauce with Mediterranean origins — you’re seriously missing out.

Aioli recipes are traditionally made with garlic, olive oil, and sometimes eggs (the combination of which is, of course, mayonnaise), but modern iterations also throw in lemon juice, garlic, and a whole plethora of other delicious herbs and spices. Here are 25 of our favorite aioli recipes, but be warned: once you dip your French fries in aioli, you’ll never go back.

Jalapeño Aioli

Let's start things off with a little spice, shall we? This zesty, zingy aioli gets infused with jalapeños, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice to form the most delicious flavor. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Super Easy Garlic Aioli

Let’s start off with the most mainstream, common version of aioli you’re likely to find. This easy-to-make recipe contains only five ingredients: mayo, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Like all aioli creations, this sauce is perfect for adding to sandwiches and burgers, and will also take your fries to a *whole* new level. (via Cooking With Curls)

Cilantro Lime Aioli

Aioli recipes are *delish* on a quesadilla or another Mexican-inspired meal. The flavors of cilantro and lime pair with all kinds of flavorful (and spicy) foods. (via Goodie Godmother)

Rosemary Aioli

Paired here with meatballs, rosemary aioli is a bit more herbaceous. The flavors of rosemary go well with meats. We also recommend serving this sauce on the sandwich portion of a hearty soup-and-sammie meal. (via The Iron You)

Pesto Aioli

Use some store-bought or homemade pesto to mix into thick mayo, and you have yourself an exceptional (and easy!) aioli recipe. (via Hello Little Home)

Truffle Aioli

One bite of this rich aioli recipe, and you'll be hooked. It's especially tasty alongside some fries! (via Vikalinka)

Basic Homemade Aioli

This pick is as straightforward as aioli gets. If you're looking to hone your kitchen craft with more homemade dips and sauces, this aioli recipe is a great place to start. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Roasted Garlic Aioli

Here’s another crowd-pleasing garlic aioli recipe for you. Pro tip: roast the garlic by cutting it in half, placing the middle side down on a piece of foil, drizzling with olive oil, and roasting for about 30 minutes. You’ll unlock a super-rich flavor that you just can’t get with raw garlic. (via The Suburban Soapbox)

The Best Aioli Recipes

Roasted Red Pepper Aioli

Looking for something a little... tangier? This roasted red pepper aioli will definitely do the trick. It combines the flavors of traditional aioli and red peppers with mustard, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes for a condiment with kick! (via The Wimpy Vegetarian)

Vegan Caper Aioli

Aioli recipes can be healthy — just ask this vegan caper aoil mixture. Salty capers meet mellowed-out mayo in this plant-based recipe. (via The Edgy Veg)

5-Ingredient Chipotle Aioli

This baby is spicy – and it also happens to be totally vegan. The “mayo” is made from soaked and blended cashews, while the flavor itself comes from fresh chipotle peppers. (via Minimalist Baker)

Magic Aioli Sauce

You'll just have to trust us on this one – this aioli recipe holds pure magic. It's dreamy and bright, meaning it's the perfect pair to hefty, salty potato wedges and the like. Each dip will leave you wanting more and more! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Gochujang Aioli

Gochujang, a spicy Korean chili and soybean paste, gets the aioli treatment, resulting in a spectacularly spicy spread that can be used across dishes from sandwiches to loaded fries. All we can say is bring on all the spicy aioli recipes! (via Takes Two Eggs)

Smoked Paprika Aioli

When shopping for paprika, go for a spice labeled “smoked paprika” or “sweet paprika.” Plain-old paprika tends to be a lot less flavorful. In the case of this pick, though, you’ll combine smoked paprika with a bit of cumin to achieve a rich, spicy flavor in your aioli recipe. (via Fountain Avenue Kitchen)

Chipotle Lime Aioli

We’ve already covered aioli with lime and aioli with chipotle peppers — but this mouthwatering recipe combines the two. Bonus points for serving these with healthy and delicious sweet potato fries! (via Joyful Healthy Eats)

Dijon-Thyme Aioli

This rich aioli is a sweet potato's BFF. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Lemon-Dill Aioli Sauce

Not so much into the peppery, spicy sauces? Keep things light and fresh with this lemon and dill-flavored creation. When prepping this aioli, be sure to bring your egg yolks to room temperature, or you may have some trouble getting them to mix with the rest of the sauce. (via Savor The Best)

Vegan Egg-Free Aioli

Here’s another one for the plant-based eaters out there. The secret ingredient in this recipe is aquafaba... that is, chickpea water. You can store this mixture for up to seven days in a covered container, so it’s great for making ahead (meal prep FTW!) and taking to work. (via Healthy Green Kitchen)

More Delicious Aioli Recipes

Chimichurri Aioli

Chimichurri is often slathered on meats, and this aioli is just as – if not more – versatile. It shares a number of ingredients with traditional chimichurri sauce — a few of the stand-outs are cilantro, onion, lime juice, and jalapeño! (via The Faux Martha)

Spicy Lemon Aioli

For a dip with more kick, this spicy lemon aioli strikes the ideal balance between tangy and zesty. (via Barley & Sage)

Roasted Garlic Saffron Aioli

Saffron brings a muted, yet deep flavor to this blend that was crafted to pair with feta fries. It's one of the tastiest aioli recipes we've had! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Easy Lemon Aioli

When we say this recipe is easy, that’s kind of an understatement. There are literally two steps: whisk everything together, then allow it to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. It’s *that* simple. (via Homemade Interest)

Creole Aioli

All the best parts of creole cookin' falvor are included in this aioli. Make sure you've got a lot of spices on your hands, or else this spicy pick won't quite hit the same. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Skinny Sriracha Aioli

What makes this Sriracha-infused aioli skinny, exactly? Instead of regular mayonnaise, you’ll sub in light mayo and Greek yogurt for a lower-fat, protein-packed alternative. (via The Skinny Fork)

Garlic Avocado Aioli

All those classic garlic aioli recipes we’ve shared above are fabulous, but adding some avocado can be a *total* game-changer. With this recipe, you’ll whip some fresh avo right into the mixture, adding creamy texture and stellar flavor. (via Cafe Delites)

Lemon Parsley Aioli

This lemon-parsley combo is decidedly British-inspired and perfect for dipping. It showcases the flavors of mayo, parsley, lemon, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Bonus points for serving it with fried blue cheese olives, as shown here. (via Dad With A Pan)

Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Aioli

If you’re interested in a red pepper flavor, but want to steer clear of animal products (or dairy in general), try this vegan version. You’ll sub in cashews (processed with water, of course) for mayo, keeping it dairy-free and super healthy. (via Veggie And The Beast)

Basil Garlic Aioli

If you’re a big pesto fan, you’ll adore this basil-garlic sauce. In addition to being a perfect addition to French fries, it would also go great on any kind of Italian-inspired sammie, such as an eggplant Parm or meatball sub. (via Self Proclaimed Foodie)

Roasted Garlic Chipotle Aioli

See those eggs in the background? That’s because this recipe has you making mayo from scratch. It doesn’t get more wholesome than that. You’ll bring the eggs to room temperature before processing them with additional yolks, lemon juice, and garlic, and adding olive oil toward the end of the process. (via Ruled.Me)

Super Garlicky Aioli

We thought we’d round off our list with another classic iteration of aioli. This garlic-infused version is perfect for all your aioli needs, but we *especially* love it with French fries and a glass of white wine. Cheers! (via Tasty Kitchen)

Follow us on Pinterest, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more creative aioli recipes and food inspo!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser. This article originally appeared in 2017 as part of our Hit Refresh series.

Header image via Minimalist Baker.

From running on 3 hours of sleep to constant diaper changes, mamas do so much. We've teamed up with @diapergenieofficial for a special Mother’s Day gift to make things easier for new moms: receive a FREE Diaper Genie Select Pail with square refill technology, plus enough refills to get you off to a great start! The giveaway will consist of one Select Pail + four Jumbo Refills for an associated value of up to $118. Say goodbye to diaper odors in style with this sleek, easy-to-use pail. The winner will also receive a $500 Amazon gift card to shop for all their baby and household needs. Check the deets below!

Enter to win a new Diaper Genie Select Pail and four Jumbo Refills here. Giveaway ends on May 31. One lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 5.

Good luck mamas! #DiaperGenie #MothersDayMagic

Vegan food isn't as fussy as it may seem. In fact, you can make vegan versions of just about all of your favorite foods, from vegan cheese tosoul food, at home. But sometimes you get busy and nothing but a casserole will do. Luckily, the comfort food versions are just as convenient and tasty as the dishes you grew up loving. In fact, these best vegan casserole recipes for dinner, lunch, and leftovers prove it.


Become an authentic chef with these quick and easy vegan casserole recipes

Cheesiest Spaghetti Squash Boats

You won't miss dairy cheese one bit; these boats load up on all your fave plant-based versions. There's so many colors, textures, and flavors going on, everyone will want a bite. (via Brit + Co)

Vegan Baked Ziti

Tomato sauce, pasta, vegan mozzarella, and basil combine for a comforting classic thanks to this easy vegan vegetable casserole. Don't bother grabbing the Tupperware, because there won't be any leftovers. (via Brit + Co)

Butternut Squash and Spinach Casserole

A puréed cashew-based sauce ties this stunning, easy vegan vegetable casserole together. You won't believe it's not real cheese! (via Nick Hopper / Farmacy Kitchen Cookbook by Camilla Fayed / Brit + Co)

Chili Mac Vegan Casserole

This vegan casserole for dinner combines a *lot* of our favorite things: macaroni, chili, and cheese — but with a vegan twist. Whether you make this for family dinner or as your work lunch meal prep, you won't want to wait to grab seconds. (via This Wife Cooks)

Vegan Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Not only is this dish vegan and gluten-free, but cauliflower is full of nutrients and fiber, and it can help reduce inflammation in the body. It can also help your body's detox process! (via Earthly Provisions)

Vegan Butternut Squash Enchiladas

Thanks to this casserole recipe, vegans can enjoy enchiladas too! Butternut squash makes this enchilada casserole surprisingly creamy. (via Making Thyme for health)

Quinoa Broccoli and Cheese Casserole With Crispy Chickpeas

Some days, you're just too lazy to make individual meal components from scratch. That's when this cheesy vegan casserole, loaded with veggies and protein, comes in handy. (via Fit Foodie Finds)

You have to try these vegan bake recipes!

Mom’s Sweet Potato Casserole w/ Sweet Vanilla Crushed Pineapple Topping

There are plenty of opportunities for a savory dinner casserole, so let's shake things up with a dessert recipe! This sweet vegan casserole has sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and enough soy milk to make it oh so creamy. Plus I'll never say no to
vegan casseroles with potatoes. (via No Eggs or Ham)

Mashed Green Bean Casserole

A cauliflower sauce makes this easy green bean casserole a recipe you'll turn to time and time again. Trust us, it makes for an excellent winter meal. (via Minimalist Baker)

Creamy Potato Vegan Casserole

If you don't want to commit fully to puréed cauliflower, you can ease yourself into the idea with this creamy potato casserole. Consider this vegan casserole with potatoes like the upscale version of mashed potatoes. (via Blissful Basil)

Teriyaki Tofu Tempeh Casserole

Sometimes cooking satisfying vegan food is as simple as recreating a favorite dish. This casserole gives takeout a makeover, swapping meat for tofu and tempeh. (via Simple Veganista)

Zucchini Corn Tamal Casserole

Skip making fussy individual tamales and try this easy vegan dish instead. Just mix your tamal batter and steam in a cake pan. (via Thyme and Love)

Vegan Breakfast Biscuit Casserole

Eating vegan doesn't have to mean giving up convenience. This vegan breakfast casserole serves a lot of guests, so your family gatherings and brunch parties don't have to be a chore. (via Namely Marley)

Kale, Cauliflower, and Sweet Potato Gratin

This vegan casserole recipe works well as an entrée or a side. It features a coconut milk sauce that coats sweet potato, cauliflower, and kale. (via Foraged Dish)

Cauliflower Alfredo Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Cauliflower is the secret ingredient of this alfredo sauce. It's baked along the sweet potatoes for a sneaky way to get two veggies in one dish. (via Food Faith Fitness)

Plant based casseroles that you won't regret making!

Vegan Baked Pumpkin Mac n' Cheese

Vegan cheese substitutes can weird some people out, but this one is made from roasted pumpkin, nutritional yeast, and non-dairy milk. Top with crispy breadcrumbs for a dish that rivals conventional mac and cheese. (via Jessica in the Kitchen)

Sweet Potato Green Curry Quinoa Casserole

This sweet potato and quinoa vegan casserole gets a flavor boost thanks to green curry paste. You'll want to bookmark this one ;). (via Fit Foodie Finds)

Vegan Eggplant Moussaka

This vegan moussaka, made with lentils and a vegan béchamel, totally hits the spot. (via Connoisseurus Veg)

Creamy Broccoli Wild Rice Vegan Casserole

In this recipe, the casserole gets an extra dose of flavor from lots of sautéed mushrooms and a topping of crispy breadcrumbs and herbs. (via The Veg Life)

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Served alongside a Tofurky roast or with a dollop of cashew milk ice cream, you can't beat this sweet potato casserole. It's sweet, has a celebratory flair, and is totally vegan. Yes, please! (via Hummusapien)

Vegan Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Spicy Sunflower “Cheese”

Quinoa, black beans, and corn will keep you full while the spicy vegan cheese will quench your craving for the real thing. The best part about this vegan casserole, though? Prep will only take you an hour! (via The First Mess)

Tomato Pasta Bake

Make dinner for a crowd with this pasta bake. Alternatively, the red sauce can be made ahead of time for easy weeknight meals. (via A Virtual Vegan)

Vegan Breakfast Casserole

The only thing I love more than dinner casserole recipes is a breakfast casserole. This pick combines your breakfast favorites — sausage, cheese, and eggs — and puts a vegan twist on them. That way, you can enjoy the cozy goodness without worrying about allergens or sensitivities. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Smoky Portobello Mushroom Vegan Cassoulet

Vegan French food may sound like an impossibility, but this vegan casserole recipe proves otherwise. It gives the classic cassoulet a makeover, adding mushrooms for a savory bite along with garlicky white beans. (via Connoisseurus Veg)

Meal prep these delicious vegan casseroles!

Easy Vegan Corn Casserole

Corn casserole goes with almost anything. Try the version alongside faux roasts or roast potatoes, or as a vegan-friendly side dish that omnivores will also enjoy. (via Namely Marly)

Zucchini, Tomato, and Potato Casserole

This is a colorful and flavorful way to get all the veggies and nutrients you need for dinner tonight and for your lunch tomorrow. (via The Veg Life)

Vegan Tempeh and Kale Enchilada Casserole

Smoky tempeh bacon gives this dish tons of robust flavor. Add a crispy breadcrumb topping for a vegan dish the whole family will love. (via Hummusapien)

Hungarian Potato Casserole

Some potato dishes can feel heavy, but not this one. It's a vegan casserole made with a cashew sauce and kidney bean sausage crumbles and garnished with pickles for an added kick of tangy flavor. (via Green Evi)

Check out more easy dinner ideas and more vegan casserole recipes on our Pinterest.

This post has been updated.

After compiling my vacation reads, I'm *finally* ready to start combing through Reese Witherspoon's Book Club list. Her revelation about reading books in her cover feature interview with Harper's Bazaar made me realize I need to step my game up ASAP.

Her admirable hobby - that's since led her to create a bourgeoning book club— continues to highlight books with women at the center, girl does she have a great eye for stories that fit every mood. To date, her book club list has amassed over 90 titles of romantic beach reads, thrillers, and more.

Since it's a new year and we're sure you not ready to tackle that many titles, I went through the list to pick the top 26 books worth diving into. Buckle up because they're sure to take our emotions on a ride! After you finish your TBR (To Be Read list), check out 24 Standout Reads From Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club, 20 Captivating Shondaland Book Club Picks, and 16 Must-Reads From The Oprah Winfrey Book Club!

May 2024: How to End a Love Story

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

Trigger warning: This book mentions suicide and grief.
Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard are bound by an event that changed their lives forever. Before you ask, it's not a steamy one night stand where one of them ghosted the other.
Their paths actually crossed because of a pivotal accident that neither of them saw coming and it caused Helen to view Grant as her worst enemy for years. However, time passed and they moved on to separately create lucrative careers. What they couldn't have expected was for their paths to cross, especially not at work.
Given the amazing opportunity to be a writer for the TV adaption of her own successful YA books, Helen anxiously travels to LA to accept the position and hit the reset button on her life. She has a brief moment of euphoria until she realizes that Grant will also be in the writer's room.
Now they'll have to confront their complicated feelings for each other in order not to derail their jobs and lives. They know it's impossible for them to have a true love story, but sometimes the messiness of life is all it takes for two people to find common ground and decide how they want their stories to end.

April 2024: The Most Fun We Ever Had

The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo

When Marilyn Connolly and David Sorenson fell in love, all they knew is that nothing could shake their foundation. Despite their unwavering hope in the past, their current reality looks differently than they imagined. Their four daughters — Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace — each have a unique set of problems that creates of chaos for the family. From the loss of one's husband to the secrets the youngest daughter keeps, the Sorensons are never quite sure what to expect.

In a shocking turn of events, a young man — Jonah Bendt — shows up and reveals that one of the daughters is his mom. He was placed up for adoption some time ago, but he's ready to come home to learn more about his biological family. There may be drama in The Most Fun We Ever Had, but there's still a family who finds a way back to the love that Marilyn and David have always believed in.

March 2024: Anita De Monte Laughs Last 

Art student Raquel only comes Anita de Monte's story after she starts feeling like she's starting to make a name for herself among College Hill's socialites. The more she learns about how Anita's life was horrifically cut short, she starts drawing parallels between their lives. It's almost like history is repeating itself and it's hitting too close to home.

As Gonzalez alternates between both of their perspectives, Raquel and Anita's lives begin to intersect in a way that makes Anita de Monte Laughs Last the kind of novel that'll have you thinking about it longer after you finish the last page.

February 2024: "Redwood Court" by DéLana R.A. Dameron

Redwood Court reads like a historical love letter to Black families and contains relationships that remind me of my own family. When Mika Tabor starts asking questions about her family's history, she receives much more than her class assignment asked for. The more she listens to her grandparents and observes her parents, she realizes they've been telling her meaningful stories all along. From tales of racism to the sweet grasp of a world that began moving past obvious racial tension, this novel offers a glimpse into the homes of many Black families.

While I often say I'd like to pass down books to my kids, Redwood Court has become something that I feel is mandatory to read.

January 2024: "First Lie Wins" by Ashley Elston

Reese's Book Club is coming in hot with their first pick of the year! This thriller of a reader is all about "Evie Porter" and her separate identities. One paints the picture of who she truly is, but her job places her in the position of assuming a new name in order to complete the mission given to her by Mr. Smith. She's never met Mr. Smith, her boss, but she has the inkling that her latest mission hits a little too close to home.

Does he know more about her than she realizes and can she successfully fulfill the goal he has for? Buy your copy of First Lie Wins today to find out!

December 2023: "Before We Were Innocent" by Ella Berman

What would you do if you knew a terrible secret that involved the death of one of your best friends? In Before We Were Innocent, Bess and Joni find themselves trying to escape answering this. However, some things are hard to bury — especially when the past comes knocking in the form of Joni. Will the two former best friends be able to maintain their innocence or will they have to accept the truth about themselves?

November Pick: "Maybe Next Time" by Cesca Major

If the past few years have felt like you've been stuck in a weird time loop, you'll love this page turner by Cesca Major. Maybe Next Time follows Emma as she navigates being a busy literary agent, wife and mother - except she only seems to have time for her career. When her husband is involved in a tragic car accident, Emma finds herself distraught only to wake up and see him alive again.

As the scenario continues to repeat, Emma will have to dig deep inside herself to correct patterns she's been a part of her to save not only her husband but life as she knows it.

October Pick: "Starling House" by Alix E. Harrow

Starling House is a daring tale of what happens when dreams meet determination, grit and evil. All Opal wants to do is create a haven for herself and her brother Jasper but she'll have to fight for it once she finds herself in the mysterious mansion of author E. Starling. In the depths of the shadows, she'll come face to face with things that'll test her resilience.

September Pick: "Mother-Daughter Murder Night" by Nina Simon 

Image via Target

The women of the Rubicon family have a lot to tangle with in Mother-Daughter Murder Night. When powerful matriarch Lana's granddaughter Jack becomes the prime suspect in an unsolved murder, Lana becomes determined to find a killer instead of waiting for her disease to have it's last say. Find out what Nina Simon has in store for the town the Rubicons find themselves living in.

August Pick: "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett

Image via Target

Tom Lake weaves a beautiful tale of remembered love and viewing the humanity of one's parent. When Lara begins to regale her three daughters of a former romance she shared with actor Peter Duke at Tome Lake, they begin to take stock of what they know about their mom as well as their own love lives.

"Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld 

Heartbreak has the potential to make you swear off love, which is something that late night writer Sally Milz knows all too well. She's also a firm believer in the "Danny Horst Rule," the phenomenon where average looking men exclusively date women more attractive than them — until pop star Noah Brewster shows up to host the late night show. Join her for an intoxicating love ride that makes her change her perspective.

"Where The Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens 

If you love a good romance-murder mystery, you'll fall in love with Kya's story. After the town's golden boy winds up dead, everyone in town begins blaming Kya for his murder. With heartbreak and triumph woven throughout, Where The Crawdads Sing will become the summer read you can't put down.

"The House of Eve" by Sadeqa Johnson

Even when forbidden, love seems to find a way in The House of Eve. 15-year-old Ruby is set to be her family's first college attendee, until it appears a scandalous affair will bring her back into poverty. Meanwhile, Eleanor's in love with William, a member of an elite Black family in D.C. that doesn't let just anyone in. The lives of both women will collide in an unexpected way as they forge their own paths.

"The House in the Pines" by Ana Reyes 

Maya witnessed her friend's sudden death in the woods seven years ago. Now, with nothing except a few hazy memories, she's determined to figure out what she saw, and who's behind it. The House In The Pines is proof that sometimes our past — and their secrets — don't stay dead.

"Tiny Beautiful Things" by Cheryl Strayed 

Life can feel like a dumpster fire sometimes which is why Tiny Beautiful Things feels like a soothing hug. If you love advice columns, you'll love the beautiful compilation of questions "Dear Sugar" answers within the pages as Clare sets out to offer advice while her own life falls apart. After you read the book, check out our interview with Sarah Pidgeon, who stars in the Hulu series!

"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng 

New friends Mia and Elena are pitted against each other when everyone in town splits over a custody battle. Adapted into a mini-series on Hulu at the beginning of the pandemic, Little Fires Everywhere is a tale that shows everything isn't always what it seems, and there are always secrets to be discovered.

"Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister 

Wrong Place, Wrong Time is a novel that explores the lengths a mother is willing to take to prevent her son from doing something unspeakable. Will she be able to piece together clues in time or will all hope remain lost?

"Daisy Jones and The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

This titular novel turned Emmy award-nominated Amazon Prime series Daisy Jones & The Six explores the rise — and fall — of a legendary (and fictional) band.

"True Biz" by Sara Nović 

This heartwarming book about life at the River Valley School for the Deaf, and all of its students with completely different backgrounds, will make you laugh and cry with its beautiful depiction of human connection.

"The Club" by Ellery Lloyd 

If you've never liked hearing "How can you hate from outside the club? You can't even get in," you'll be glad you're not a part of this members-only society. The club has been pushed to its limit and everyone has something to hide.

"The Christie Affair" by Nina de Gramont 

Nan infiltrates Agatha Christie's home in 1925, intent on luring her husband away. There's something about love, affairs, and dark secrets that make for a good read, and you won't be able to get enough of this tale where things aren't always what they seem.

"Lucky" by Marissa Stapley 

"She's so lucky" ...or is she? Lucky redefines what it means to be honest when the titular character completes a million-dollar heist, and is left stranded by the very people who taught her how to scam.

"Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo 

When Anna learns the father she never knew is still alive, she travels to West Africa in search of answers. The tale of self-discovery through one's history, as well as the themes of home and belonging, is something we all long to understand at some point.

"L.A. Weather" by María Amparo Escandón 

Families can be complicated, and the Alvarados are no different. If you're looking for a little break from your own family dynamics, you'll get a kick out of reading along as they navigate evacuations, relationship problems, and their father's obsession with the Weather Channel.

"The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller 

What happens when desire spills over and threatens to unravel everything two friends have built? The Paper Palace answers that as Elle must choose between continuing the life she has dedicated herself to and the life she never got to live.

"Seven Days in June" by Tia Williams 

When former lovers Eva and Shane reunite in the midst of their successful literary careers, they find that their chemistry is still as strong as it used to be. But, will the flame fizzle before their lingering questions are answered or will Eva choose vulnerability before Shane disappears again?

"The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave 

What would you do if your significant other disappeared without a trace, only leaving a cryptic note behind? In Hannah's case, she sets out on an unpredictable mission for answers — regardless of what lies ahead. After you read the book, check out our interview with Angourie Rice, who stars in the Apple TV+ series!

"The Sanatorium" by Sarah Pearse 

Le Sommet is a sanatorium-turned-luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Detective Elin arrives to celebrate her estranged brother Isaac's engagement to Laure, and her discomfort turns to all-out horror when Laure goes missing.

"You Have a Match" by Emma Lord 

DNA tests can reveal new information about our ancestry, but when Abby learns that she has an older sister — and that her older sister is an Instagram star — the women decide to meet up and get to the bottom of why their parents split them up in the first place.

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell'Antonia 

Nothing brings families together like food and age-old rivalries, something that sisters Amanda and Mae learn firsthand when they end up on opposite sides of a cooking competition. If you love hit TV series The Bear, you'll love The Chicken Sisters.

Other Stories On Reese Witherspoon's Book Club List

  • "Yellowface" by R.F. Kuang
  • "Cassandra in Reverse" by Holly Smale
  • "Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" by Crystal Smith Paul
  • "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah
  • "The Marriage Portrait" by Maggie O'Farrell
  • "Our Missing Hearts" by Celeste Ng
  • "On The Rooftop" by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
  • "Honey & Spice" by Bolu Babalola
  • "Counterfeit" by Kirstin Chen
  • "The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams
  • "Anatomy" by Dana Schwartz
  • "Honor" by Thrity Umrigar
  • "The Island of Missing Trees" by Elif Shafak
  • "Within These Wicked Walls" by Lauren Blackwood
  • "We Were Never Here" by Andrea Bartz
  • "The Downstairs Girl" by Stacey Lee
  • "Tokyo Ever After" by Emiko Jean
  • "Northern Spy" by Flynn Berry
  • "Firekeeper's Daughter" by Angeline Boulley
  • "Infinite Country" by Patricia Engel
  • "Outlawed" by Anna North
  • "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron
  • "A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow" by Laura Taylor Namey
  • "Group" by Christie Tate
  • "Fable" by Adrienne Young
  • "His Only Wife" by Peace Medie Adzo
  • "Furia" by Yamile Saied Mendez
  • "The Last Story of Mina Lee" by Nancy Jooyoun Kim
  • "You Should See Me in a Crown" by Leah Johnson
  • "Everything Inside" by Edwidge Danticat
  • "I'm Still Here" by Austin Channing Brown
  • "The Guest List" by Lisa Foley
  • "The Henna Artist" by Alka Joshi
  • "UNTAMED" by Glennon Doyle
  • "The Jetsetters" by Amanda Eyre Ward
  • "The Scent Keeper" by Erica Bauermeister
  • "Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid
  • "Conviction" by Denise Mina
  • "The Giver of Stars" by Jojo Moye
  • "Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky
  • "The Secrets We Kept" by Lara Prescott
  • "The Last House Guest" by Megan Miranda
  • "Whisper Network" by Chandler Baker
  • "The Cactus" by Sarah Haywood
  • "From Scratch" by Tembi Locke
  • "The Night Tiger" by Yangsze Choo
  • "The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory
  • "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean
  • "One Day in December" by Josie Silver
  • "The Other Woman" by Sandie Jones
  • "This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel
  • "Still Lives" by Maria Hummel
  • "Next Year in Havana" by Chanel Cleeton
  • "Something in the Water" by Catherine Steadman
  • "You Think It, I'll Say It" by Curtis Sittenfeld
  • "Happiness" by Heather Harpham
  • "Erotic Stories For Punjabi Widows" by Balli Kaur Jaswal
  • "The Light We Lost" by Jill Santopolo
  • "Braving the Wilderness" by Brené Brown
  • "The Last Mrs. Parrish" by Liv Constantine
  • "The Is the Story of a Happy Marriage" by Ann Patchett
  • “The Rules of Magic” by Alice Hoffman
  • "The Lying Game" by Ruth Ware
  • "The Alice Network" by Kate Quinn
  • "Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman

Whether you want to challenge yourself to read a book every couple of days like Reese or choose a few books to get you through the summer, I'm sure you'll find titles to add to your growing library. I already have my eyes on Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and The Club by Ellery Lloyd!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Header Image via Amazon

Growing up on the Outer Banks means I've gone through my fair share of swimsuits. All it takes is one summer of surfing wipeouts, sun bathing, swimming, and hitting up the shops (because you really do everything in a bathing suit on the OBX) to know exactly which bathing suit brands are worth buying — and which are cheap enough to avoid forever. I took to social media to ask real Outer Banks locals which bathing suit brands they can't get enough of. Keep reading for all the details!

Target

Image via Target

I know y'all love Target just as much as I do — and along with their home decor, cute shoes, and comfy clothes, their bathing suit options are some of my friends' favorites. Target's got a ton of diverse and affordable swimwear options that is full of different styles, sizes, and prices. That means there's something for everyone! I'm obsessed with this Underwire Bralette Bikini Top and High Waist High Leg Extra Cheeky Bikini Bottom.

Aerie

Image via Aerie

Aerie is perfect for Outer Banks fans because it's one of the most-used bathing suit brands on the show! This store balances style with comfort and casual, and TBH half the swimsuits are cute enough to be tank tops. Their bathing suits will make you feel confident and add a pop of color to your summer wardrobe! This Smiley® String Triangle Bikini Top and Cheekiest Tie Bikini Bottom are a great place to start ;).

​Old Navy

Image via Old Navy

Old Navy is a great place to shop for affordable basics, and that definitely extends to swimsuit season. Their bathing suits come in a range sizes, and they're durable, classic, and super affordable (a lot of them are under $20!). They also have just enough Americana edge to live out your '00s rom-com dreams. I can't stop looking at the Zip-Front Bikini Swim Top and High-Waisted Bikini Swim Bottoms.

Body Glove

Image via Body Glove

Body Glove is one bathing suit brand that's just as functional as it is stylish, and it's also equal parts feminine and sporty for any gal who's always on the go. The Free Flow Eli One-Piece Swimsuitis one of my favorite suits because it's so colorful and it's also supportive, which you absolutely need when taking part in a treasure hunt.

AlySwim

Image via AlySwim

If you're looking for the true Outer Banks experience, then you should grab a suit made by someone who grew up there! AlySwim is totally customizable, and a lot of the suits are reversible so you get two looks for the price of one. With trendy patterns and vibrant colors, bathing suits like the Blue Hawaiian Eva Top and Bottoms will make a bold statement.

Rey Swimwear

Image via Rey Swimwear

The bathing suits from Rey Swimwear are as classy as they come, and it feels like there are endless options for colors, patterns, and silhouettes. There are also options for longer torsos, which is such a blessing for us #TallGirls. Sarah Cameron would be all over this Marie bathing suit!

More Bathing Suit Brands OBX Locals Love

Image via Kenny Flowers

Maaji is the thing of our '90s dreams, and each bathing suit will make you feel the summer magic we crave all year long. I love the Hot Magenta Adhara V Wire Bralette Bikini Top and Sublimity Regular Rise Classic Bikini Bottoms!

Left on Friday is for the minimalists. But just because the swimsuits are simple and elegant doesn't mean they're boring — and the asymmetrical silhouette on the Shoreline Suit proves it.

Kenny Flowers immediately reminds me of Palm Royale every time I look on their site because of the old school vibe and bright colors. I NEED the Acapulco Underwire Bikini Top and High Waist Bikini Bottom!!

Lime Ricki is the place to go if you're looking for modest swimsuits that will also turn heads all summer long. The bold prints and bright colors are both nostalgic and playful, and it's also a really accessible brand. Celebrate your individuality in a suit like the Shell Stripe Ruffle-Strap One Piece.

Korni Jeane lets you mix and match different vibes to create a bathing suit that's unique to you and your personal aesthetic. I'm confident Kiara would love this Bandeau Top and All Ruffled Up Bottoms.

Every cute bathing suit needs equally cute accessories so check out The 5 Most Comfortable Walking Sandals For Summer, Ranked next!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Kenny Flowers