5 Mascaras That Are *Seriously* Better Than Falsies

Mascara is a beauty product I absolutely, 100 percent can’t live without. From creating the *perfect* product with my go-to mascara hack to regularly testing countless formulas, I definitely consider myself to be majorly obsessed. You can focus on building length, increasing volume and/or darkening your lashes with this makeup game-changer, but I look for formulas that tackle all three of those factors. Here are five of my personal picks for the best mascaras of all time, in no particular order.

1. TYRA Beauty B.I.G. Lashes Silk Extension System ($35): This product *delivers,* y’all — big time. The first time I used this mascara, I was legitimately blown away by how fat my lashes looked without veering into clumpy or goopy territory. They were noticeably longer and thicker, which made me SO happy. This mascara comes in a set. You apply the first product (called Silk Extensions) to your lashes, which deposits — you guessed it — silk-like extensions that make lashes appear thicker and longer. After that, you sweep on the second product (called Extending Mascara), which seals in the extensions and leaves behind a super dark, inky color. Note that Tyra herself spoke at Re:Make 2016 and TYRA Beauty is a Brit + Co partner.

2. Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling & Lifting Mascara ($24): An all-time fave of mine, this curling mascara never, ever disappoints. The brush is the real magic, if you ask me: Its bristles are stiff enough that your lashes will be clump-free and suuuper long. While this stuff stays PUT throughout the day, it is tough to remove, so I recommend using an oil cleanser to dissolve the heavy-duty formula. Get ready to flutter those lashes!

3. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara ($23): ZOMG! Extremely thick, luxe lashes are in the cards for you if you turn to this cult favorite mascara. While this formula definitely lengthens your eyelashes, I notice the biggest difference in the volume. If I’m going out and want my eyelashes to rival falsies, I reach for this power player. I recommend using a makeup setting spray with this product because it can smudge a *little* bit, but it easily washes off at the end of the day.

4. Maybelline Volum’ Express The Falsies Mascara ($7): This pick does it all, straight up. If you have sparse lashes, swipe this mascara on and you’ll instantly look like you have a lush, full set. I use a lash comb with this particular product to make sure that I get length in addition to the mega volume it serves up. The slightly curved spoon brush is everythingggg and does a fantastic job lifting your lashes up from the root.

5. Rimmel London Lash Accelerator Endless Mascara ($9): I’ve been using this drugstore mascara since college and am constantly repurchasing it. I call this my “purse mascara” because it’s affordable enough to keep stocked in all your purses ;) This formula definitely focuses more on building out the length of your lashes versus the thickness, so grab this mascara if you’re after sky-high lashes that look natural.

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ICYMI, eyeshadow sticks are trending upwards lately, and it’s for good reason. Not only are the sticks super practical (Hello simple application!), but you can apply your latest eye look on the go and with ease. After all – who has room for an entire eyeshadowpalette and brushes in their bag? Not us!

If you’re thinking “OMG I must add this to my makeup routine,” we totally relate. Nowadays you can find eyeshadow sticks just about anywhere, but we’ve rounded up our faves to give you the best glam ever.

Laura Mercier RoseGlow Caviar Stick Eye Shadow ($32)

With over 2,000 five star reviews, it’s no wonder this eyeshadow stick makes the list. If you’re looking for a little glitz, creamy shadow is guaranteed to give you a fabulous look that lasts all day long.

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick ($32)

If simplicity is in your nature, then you need to check out Bobbi Brown’s nude shadow collection. Not only do they have tons of color options, but their formula is built to last through all of your day in the life shenanigans.

elf NO BUDGE SHADOW STICK ($5)

Yes, you read that right. Get one of the best shadow sticks on the market for only $5.

about-face Shadowstick ($14)

If you’re looking for a great white eyeshadow, then look no further. about-face’s Oxide Shadowstick will definitely give you the bright, clean look you’re going for.

IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Longwear Eyeshadow Stick ($25)

This super blendable eyeshadow stick glides onto your lids without tugging on your delicate eye area, and is available in matte and pearl finishes. Sounds like a win-win to us.

Nudestix Magnetic Eye Color ($27)

We’ll be channeling our fave nepo baby (yes, we do mean Sofia Richie Grainge) with this product.

Sephora Collection Sephora Colorful® Waterproof Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Multi-Stick ($14)

There are so many fabulous colors to choose from in this collection. BRB while we go buy them all. 💸

Iconic London Glaze Dual Ended Eyeshadow Crayon ($30)

Get 2-in-1 with this stunning eyeshadow duo. No more lugging around eyeshadow palettes for you!

Are you all about bold makeup or prefer keeping things clean and simple? Let us know in the comments below!

Discover all the latest beauty trends with Brit + Co.

Image courtesy of Gustavo Almeida / PEXELS.

If you're a Taylor Swift fan, then you probably know about Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian's history. What started as Kanye West interrupting Taylor's acceptance speech at the 2009 VMAs — a moment that altered the course of pop culture history — spiraled into a very public feud that gave us Reputation and always seems to reappear in a new form. And after the release of The Tortured Poets Department, Swifties think we've got another piece of the puzzle with Taylor's new song "thanK you aIMee."

In true Taylor fashion, the popstar actually hinted at the song in October 2023 when she wore a $24 clip from Anthropologie called the "Aimee" clip! She loves to add all kinds of clues and references within her outfits, and I love that this one is so affordable. Here's everything you need to know. Don't forget to check out Every Pop Culture Reference In Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poets Department.

Is "thanK you aIMee" actually about Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian?

Image via Big Machine Records/YouTube

There is plenty of evidence suggesting "thanK you aIMee" is about Kim Kardashian & Taylor Swift. The first and most obvious is that the title of the song only has three letters capitalized: "KIM." The song talks about "Aimee" (who Taylor admits actually has a different name in real life), a bully figure who beats Taylor's spirit "black and blue."

In the summer of 2016, Kanye West (Kim's husband at the time) released his song "Famous," in which he takes total credit for Taylor's fame following the 2009 VMAs incident. Taylor claimed she never gave him permission to call her a bitch in the song, a video leak from Kim seemed to show the opposite (the video turned out to be edited). At the time, Kim even told GQ that “[Taylor] totally knew that that was coming out. She wanted to all of a sudden act like she didn’t.”

#TaylorSwiftIsOverParty started trending on Twitter, Taylor Swift deleted all social media and stopped doing interviews for three years, then returned with a vengeance on the "Look What You Made Me Do" music video in 2017. The video starts off with a zombie Taylor burying the "nicer" version of herself.

Taylor Swift's "thanK you aIMee" mentions "It wasn't a fair fight or a clean kill // Each time that Aimee stomped across my gravе // And then she wrote hеadlines // In the local paper, laughing at each baby step I'd take." If you ask me, it definitely sounds like a reference to the music video and maybe even Kim's interviews.

Why does "thanK you aIMee" have random capital letters?

Image via Monica Schipper/Getty Images

Taylor Swift loves hiding clues in her titles, lyrics, and messages. And historically, she's hidden words by using random capital letters. That means "thanK you aIMee" is supposed to draw our eyes to "KIM."

The Lyrics To "thanK you aIMee"

Image via Larry Busacca/Getty Images for NARAS

Verse 1: When I picture my hometown // There's a bronze spray-tanned statue of you // And a plaque underneath it // That threatens to push me down the stairs at our school

Pre-Chorus: And it was always the same searing pain // But I dreamed that, one day, I could say

Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, I was buildin' somethin' // And I can't forgive the way you made me feel // Screamed, "F*ck you, Aimee" to the night sky as the blood was gushin' // But I can't forget the way you made me heal

Verse 2: And it wasn't a fair fight or a clean kill // Each time that Aimee stomped across my gravе // And then she wrote hеadlines // In the local paper, laughing at each baby step I'd take

Pre-Chorus: And it was always the same searing pain // But I prayed that, one day, I could say

Image via Christopher Polk/Getty Images

Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, I was buildin' somethin' // And I couldn't wait to show you it was real // Screamed, "F*ck you, Aimee" to the night sky as the blood was gushin' // But I can't forget the way you made me heal // Everyone knows that my mother is a saintly woman // But she used to say she wished that you were dead // I pushed each boulder up the hill // Your words are still just ringing in my head, ringing in my head

Verse 3: I wrote a thousand songs that you find uncool // I built a legacy, which you can't undo // But when I count the scars, there's a moment of truth // That there wouldn't be this if there hadn't been you

Bridge: And maybe you've reframed it // And in your mind, you never beat my spirit black and blue // I don't think you've changed much // And so I changed your name and any real defining clues // And one day, your kid comes home singin' // A song that only us two is gonna know is about you, 'cause

Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, it was all for nothin' // And our town, it looks so small from way up here // Screamed, "Thank you, Aimee" to the night sky and the stars are stunnin' // 'Cause I can't forget the way you made me heal // Everyone knows that my mother is a saintly woman // But she used to say she wished that you were dead // So I pushed each boulder up that hill // Your words were still just ringin' in my head, ringin' in my head

Outro: Thank you, Aimee // Thank you, Aimee

Do you think "thanK you aIMee" is referencing the feud between Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian? After you listen again, check out All Of Taylor Swift's Albums, Ranked!

Lead images via Dimitrios Kambouris/Monica Schipper/Getty Images

It’s 2023 – everyone knows about skincare routines. At this point, we've even branched out into taking more targeted care of the skin on our hands and décolletage. While our routines may already touch on the tender skin around our eyes and neck, what about our actual eyes? As a visually able person, I sometimes take my eyesight for granted, but I realize it’s important to recognize the gift of sight and take better care of my eyes. Incorporating an eye care routine may not be something you’ve ever thought of doing, but we’re here to show you why it’s so important.

Why should I take care of my eyes?

Age-related eye conditions and diseases are more frequent in women than in men, according to The Society for Women’s Health Research. These conditions include glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Certain diseases can also result in trouble seeing clearly, or complete loss of vision. There are lots of external factors that can affect the eyes that we may not think twice about, but these can lead to varying degrees of disease or discomfort over time.

"Many people may notice symptoms like red, tired eyes, as well as burning and itching of the eyes that are commonly due to underlying dry eye and blepharitis, inflammation of the eyelids," says Ophthalmologist Dr. Kelsi Greider-Sideris, MD. She has a special interest in treating dry eye and is one of the few ophthalmologists trained to use the Lumenis OptiLight system to treat dry eye. "These symptoms are typically exacerbated by things like air conditioning, heating, contact lens wear, and screen time."

With all of that in mind, it seems increasingly more important to also consider your personal eye health in assessing your overall well-being.

What's an eye care routine?

Photo by Angela Roma / PEXELS

An eye care routine is a tailored plan you can follow to take proper care of your eyes and vision. You can develop a routine that works for you on your own, but we think it's a good idea to work with your eye doctor as well.

"Eyesight is often determined by your genetics and once your eyesight starts to deteriorate you cannot reverse it naturally," says Dr. Maria Montero, an ophthalmologist, surgeon, mother, and mentor with Orbis International. "You can follow an easy and simple routine to maintain your health."

Elements of a healthy eye care routine include eye exams, eating healthy foods, exercising, not smoking, avoiding getting bacteria near the eyes, taking your makeup off, and wearing preventative eyewear. Learn more about each step below.

Regular Eye Exams

Eye exams aren't just about getting new frames or contacts. At these appointments, doctors can monitor for eye diseases and abnormalities as well. This is some of the best preventative eye care you can give yourself, especially since most eye conditions are easily treatable or delayed when caught in early stages.

"It's important to visit your eye doctor at least once a year for a checkup," Dr. Montero said. "Even if you have perfect vision, you should still visit the eye doctor because they can detect eye conditions or other health problems."

Exercising Regularly

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS

Incorporating exercise into your routines can improve blood flow to the retina and optic nerve. This reduces overall complications with the eyes, and helps prevent eye conditions and diseases.

Eating Healthy Foods

When you were a kid, your grandmother may have told you to eat your carrots for healthy eyes as a kid, and she wasn't really wrong. Certain types of foods are great for maintaining good eyesight. Those include:

  • Dark, leafy greens like kale
  • Heart-healthy fish like salmon
  • Fruits and veggies that are high in Vitamins C and E

Not Touching Your Eyes With Dirty Hands

Photo by Darina Belonogova / PEXELS

Reducing exposure to bacteria is crucial in your ocular upkeep. If you have to touch your eyes, or even the skin close to them, make sure you thoroughly wash your hands before and after.

Not Smoking

If you’re a regular smoker, it could mean you’re twice as likely to develop macular degeneration and cataracts. The chemicals you inhale can negatively affect the flow of blood and oxygen to your eyes, resulting in further complications.

Maintaining Clean Makeup Brushes and Not Sharing Makeup

Photo by Meredith Holser

Healthy contact with your eyes means making sure you clean anything that gets close to them. This includes makeup brushes and other applicators without a doubt, as mascara wands and eyeshadow brushes can harbor tons of bacteria that could harm the eyes. You want to wash and disinfect them regularly, and definitely beware of sharing any applicators with friends.

"Make sure you choose high quality, hypoallergenic makeup, and remember to wash brushes and swap out your mascara for a fresh one every month," Dr. Greider-Sideris said. "There are makeup brands that are ophthalmologist tested and even ophthalmologist developed."

The same thing goes for beauty treatments like eyelash extensions, Dr. Montero said. It's important to be educated on how they can affect your eyes. "They're trendy right now, and generally are safe for your eyes," she said. "I recommend that you only go to a reputable salon with experienced personnel that uses high-quality glue. The glue can be harmful if it gets in your eye, causing a corneal burn or laceration. If the eyelash technician is not experienced or not using the right products, it can cause damage to your eyes."

Taking Your Makeup Off Before Bed

Dr. Yuna Rapoport, MD, MPH, and Board-Certified Ophthalmologist at Manhattan Eye recommends removing makeup thoroughly every night, using a gentle eye makeup remover, then doing a brief heat treatment. “I also recommend doing 30 seconds of heat to help open up the meibomian glands. Meibomian glands are important to the lubrication of the eye. If those glands are clogged, then the eye can develop aqueous deficiency dry eye. Heat treatment can be as simple as taking a clean washcloth in hot (but not burning!) water and leaving it on the eyelids for 30 seconds.”

Avoiding Harmful Skincare Near The Eyes

Photo by Shiny Diamonds / PEXELS

Certain ingredients found in skincare creams and serums can impact the eyes. “Vitamin A derivatives like Accutane and Retin-A can be toxic to the oil glands that line our eyelids that are important for lubricating the eye's surface,” Dr. Greider-Sideris said. “It is important to be aware that their use can lead to severe dry eye, so avoid getting Retin-A close to the eyelids.”

Sporting Protective Eyewear

Photo by Anna Shvets / PEXELS

Eyewear is a true two in one – glasses look chic, and also protect your eyes from harm. Wear sunglasses when you’re outside to protect your eyes from UV rays. Blue light glasses are a game-changer when it comes to working from home and scrolling social media. Try wearing safety glasses or goggles when you’re doing messy yard work or DIYs – they’ll block debris that irritate the eyes.

Do I need an eye care routine?

If you’re aiming to take the best care of your eyes, an eye care routine is absolutely necessary. Considering all of the factors above will put you ahead of the curve in the realm of eye care, helping you see well into your future.

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Header image by Shiny Diamonds / PEXELS

Fans who were left on the edge of their seats after watching the first part of AHS: Delicate last year won't have to wait longer for part two! Emma Roberts and Kim Kardashian are gearing up to pick up where their characters left off, and sinister twists are about to get much darker. While we know the focus revolves around their interactions, we can't wait to see how Gilmore Girls star Matt Czuchry fits into what's sure to be a big reveal.

Read on for a mini recap of part one of AHS: Delicateand learn all the juicy details about part two!

Recap of Kim Kardashian's involvement in AHS: Delicate

Image via FX Networks

Kim Kardashian as 'Siobhan' in "American Horror Story: Delicate"

As good as Kim Kardashian is as the icy publicist Siobhan on AHS: Delicate, don't expect her to watch herself onscreen. She appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live yesterday and explained why she hasn't seen herself in clips of the show when Jimmy Kimmel played and unsettling one.

Her character can be seen intimidating a fertility doctor to do her bidding as she pierces the top of his neck with a long orange fingernail. She smiled before saying "It's so funny, I can't watch it back," and then added, "I get so nervous."

She even talked about the difference between filming for TV and working as an actual actress. She said, "I called my sisters and I go, 'Guys. You — not to say you'd ever want to get into acting — but you are so lucky you can wake up and just, we can sit in bed and film, and you don't have to get up...like there is no schedule."

However, it seems like the budding actress took her new schedule in stride because Star Trek actor and AHS co-star Zachary Quinto applauded Kardashian’s acting chops.

“I did a cameo on this season of ‘American Horror Story’ and I got to meet her,” the actor told People. “She was so lovely and warm and, really, I don’t think she needs my advice.” Quinto added, sharing that Kardashian, was “really in her element” on set and he was “really impressed by her spirit and her openness…I really look forward to seeing this season because I think she’s gonna do a wonderful job.”

Recap of AHS: Delicate Part 1

Image via FX Networks

The first part of AHS: Delicate premiered on FX September 20, 2023 and centered around actress Anna Victoria Alcott's desire to become a mother. Played by Emma Roberts, viewers watched as her husband Dexter Harding (played by Matt Czuchry) was supportive of her IVF procedure so the couple could conceive their first child. Despite the previous struggles, the procedure is a success and the happy couple learn they have a baby on the way.

However, things go horribly wrong when Anna starts being followed and eventually experiences a violent miscarriage during her first trimester. Somehow the baby actually survives, but Anna still experiences a series of strange hallucinations and events. From losing her hair to vomiting a foreign object, she starts to wonder if something is wrong with her baby. There's also the fact that she told her publicist Siobhan (played by Kim Kardashian) that she'd do anything to remain at the top of the her career.

What's revealed is that a baby cult does exist and Dexter's dead first wife knew all about it. However, the cult still looks at him as a threat so it's only a matter of time before they close in.

If you need a refresher, catch up on the first part of AHS: Delicate on Hulu and be sure to check out the eery trailer for a look at part two! Also, get your hands on a copy of Danielle Valentine’s novel Delicate Condition to see how the story truly unfolds.

Watch The Official Trailer For AHS: Delicate Part 2

www.youtube.com

American Horror Story: Delicate Part Two | Official Trailer - Emma Roberts, Kim Kardashian | FX

We suspected Siobhan may have a darker role than Anna thinks and the trailer confirms it. As Anna gets further along in her pregnancy, it's hinted that her growing baby may not be 'normal' and there's nothing she'll be able to do about it.

We're crossing our fingers for Anna and Dexter, but the baby cult may have the final say in AHS: Delicate Part 2.

The first portion of AHS: Delicate Part 2 premiered on FX April 3, 2024, but the series will come to a close beginning April 24. All we can say is things are about to get extremely bumpy 👀.

What do you think will happen during the final moments of AHS: Delicate Part 2? Let us know in the comments!

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This post has been updated.
Header image via FX Networks

We know that Taylor just released The Tortured Poets Department, sending the internet (and us) into a frenzy to decipher her lyrics and determine who is the subject of each song (we're looking at you, Matty). But we’re still stuck on her last album, Midnights — and more specifically, "Lavender Haze." While we're still obsessed with that song — especially the acoustic version — we're even more obsessed with the shade of purple itself.

Lavender took over the 2023 spring/summer fashion shows, but lavender’s lighter cousin, lilac, is taking the crown as the costar of the season alongside butter yellow this year. This pastel shade has always been a springtime favorite, and it's honestly the perfect color to add to your wardrobe right now. With that in mind, here are a few on-trend pieces to add to your wardrobe to enjoy this season’s fave color.

Shop The Lilac Color Trend Here!

J.Crew Collection Layered Sequin T-Shirt

This sequined top and matching skirt from J.Crew could be my favorite set I’ve seen this season. The top is a sheer and shimmery short-sleeve with a matching colored camisole underneath. The shirt comes with a shorter liner for a fun and flirty evening look, without showing too much skin. Both pieces come in lilac and are covered in light-reflecting sequins.

Coach Jonie Bag

An easy way to incorporate a new color is through accessories, like shoes, jewelry, or bags. I adore Coach, and I'm always checking their website and socials for their latest drop. I’ve been eyeing this purple Jonie Bag for a while and it might be time to click “order.”

Abercrombie Textured Button-Through Shirt Dress

This loose and airy short-sleeve mini dress from Abercrombie is perfect for hot summer days in the office or running errands. Available in petite, regular, and tall, there’s a length for everyone. Pair with flats and a light jacket or blazer for an easy and cool office look.

GAP Mid Rise Crinkle Gauze Wide-Leg Pants

I practically live in linen pants once the temp hits 70 degrees. This style is a "breathable cotton" and comes in a variety of colors, including lilac. These are effortless and easy to throw on with an elastic waistband. I'd love to see them with a graphic tee and sambas!

Abercrombie Ottoman Slash Top

I’m a huge fan of the Ottoman tops from Abercrombie, and this lilac one is in my shopping cart as we speak. This fitted sweater top is a closet staple and easy to pair with linen trousers and sneakers or a mini skirt and heeled sandals.

Urban Outfitters Bri Double Bow Satin Mini Dress

As someone who is obsessed with bows, this lilac dress with bow straps is too cute. I’ll be wearing this satin mini all summer long.

H&M Open-Back Gathered Top

With a variety of purple, lavender, and lilac shades — and a just bit of yellowy orange — this tie-dye-inspired tank is the perfect going out top for spring and summer. The gathered seams on the side provide a great shape and the open back is perfect for a hot summer night.

Adidas Sambas OG

As someone who is getting bored of plain, white sneakers, I am seriously considering adding a colorful tennis shoe to my (overflowing) closet. Adidas Sambas are everywhere right now, and this purple pair is so cool.

J.Crew Garçon Classic Shirt In Striped Cotton Poplin

This everyday button down shirt is a classic from J.Crew, but the color and print make it feel fresh and new. This top is perfect with white trousers and white sneakers for a cute and casual daytime outfit or with black trousers and pumps for an office-ready look.

Lululemon Varsity High-Rise Pleated Tennis Skirt

Even Lululemon is into lilac. This trendy tennis skirt, which comes in a variety of colors, is now available in lilac. Designed for tennis but also perfect for all your Hot Girl and Wine Walks, this fun and bright skirt will make any workout better.

Banana Republic Ariella Taffeta Midi Dress

Midi dresses are the best for summer — they’re comfortable, easy to throw on, and always look cute. This purple one from Banana Republic is no exception, and would be a perfect pick for your next vacay.

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