How Body Positivity Surprisingly Took Over Fashion Week

Anjerika Wilmer
Sep 14, 2016

Beautiful clothes, breathtaking presentations and gorgeous venues aside, the latest installment of NYFW presented a noticeably different fashion landscape. We’re talking about the incorporation of “real” women on the runway. Thanks to designers like Christian Siriano, Tracy Reese, Byron Lars and even J.Crew, body diversity is finally getting recognized at fashion week. Not only are we seeing a shift in the traditional sample size, but we can *actually* relate to the women modeling (gasp!). As much as we look forward to seeing our favorite high-profile models slay on the catwalk, it’s incredibly empowering to see plus-size women of our generation being represented within the same show. Let’s not forget that the average American woman is a size 14, after all. Here’s to hoping more designers will start embracing body positivity in their upcoming collections by giving women of all sizes a chance to shine. In the meantime, scroll down to see some of our favorite runway looks modeled by real women.

Our favorite Project Runway designer, Christian Siriano, did not disappoint with his upcoming Spring/Summer ‘17 collection inspired by Capri. Following his size-inclusive lines for Kleinfeld Bridal and Lane Bryant, Christian’s decision to include five plus-size models in his spring presentation should come as no surprise, especially with body positive celebs like Christina Hendricks and Ashley Graham sitting front row.

1. Black Tie Affair: So. Much. Drama. We can’t decide what we love more: the satiny black cape, the body-skimming white dress or the skinny black scarf. Regardless, fingers crossed that this after-hours-approved getup makes its way to the red carpet soon. (Photo via Slaven Vlasic/Getty)

2. Sleek and Sophisticated: Gear up for date night with this statement-making co-ord that means business. The scalloped black crop top featuring bell sleeves complements the black maxi exquisitely. And don’t even get us started on those DDG beaded tassel earrings. (Photo via Slaven Vlasic/Getty)

3. Getaway-Inspired: Resort, we’re ready for ya! We hope it’s not too late to pre-order this vivid blue cami dress complete with a front slit. Top it off with a blazer and come-hither gladiators for a spring wedding or a stint in paradise. (Photo via Slaven Vlasic/Getty)

4. Sleek and Sultry: Slay, girl, slay! Playful peekaboo cutouts and slits are always good in our book, especially when they’re this tasteful. A body chain and black lace-up ghillies are non-negotiable for an entrance-making look. (Photo via Slaven Vlasic/Getty)

Tracy Reese

Tracy Reese’s garden party-esque presentation stemmed from her desire to celebrate femininity and make all women feel beautiful. Her incorporation of non-models (AKA women of all sizes and ages) reflects the designer’s move to provide customers with more inclusive sizing, starting with her Spring 2017 collection.

5. Garden Party: We call dibs on this halter-style black and white floral frock with around-the-clock appeal. You can dress it up with heels for the office or opt for a wide-brimmed straw hat and espadrilles come the weekend. (Photo via Cindy Ord/Getty)

6. Fun and Flirty: It’s official: Spring cannot come soon enough. This punchy floral number is perfect for an array of daytime-casual affairs (think: bridal showers, luncheons and a trip out to the vineyard). The lace underlay and twirl-worthy asymmetric hem make us want to pull out our fancy steppers. (Photo via Cindy Ord/Getty)

7. Hawaiian-Inspired: Repeat after us: You need a tropical print tunic dress this laid-back chic on standby. Not only does it have major beach-to-boardwalk potential, but it can be styled alongside a pair of ugly-chic Tevas like that. (Photo via Cindy Ord/Getty)

8. Red Carpet-Ready: Speaking of real women, we loved seeing Saturday Night Live’s Sasheer Zamata modeling a stunning peony pink dress worthy of the Emmys. (She looks absolutely radiant, BTW.) More diversity is just what fashion week needs. (Photo via Cindy Ord/Getty)

Byron Lars

If Byron Lars isn’t already on your radar, then he will be soon enough. Not only is Michelle Obama a fan of his cutting-edge designs, but his Spring 2017 collection caters to sizes 0-18. For plus-size models like Jenna Rusnak, having the opportunity to walk in Byron Lars’ show was not only a dream come true, but a huge milestone for the plus-size industry in general.

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@byronlarsbm and his models! What a fantastic show👐 #kiastyle360nyfw #byronlars #fashionshow

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9. The NEW Fashion Week: *This* is what the future of modeling at fashion week should look like. Byron Lars’ plus-size launch collection is giving curvy girls everywhere ALL the feels. There’s no reason why more designers can’t expand their lines to include a wider range of sizes.

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•• R U N W A Y T I N G S •• 📸: @goldbergkyle #ByronLars #NYFW #NYFWNoir #FashionWeek #ByronLarsBeautyMark #DanielleJames #plussize #plussizefashion

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10. Summer Aztecs: When tribal influence meets daytime casual separates, this is the way chic result. Plus, we’re loving this model’s sass — she gets an A+ for confidence (and workin’ that head scarf).

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#ByronLars inclusive sizing #runwaymodels of all shapes at the #style360 #NYFW fashion show #curvygirl

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11. ’90s-Inspired Neons: But first, let me take a selfie. This eclectic ensemble is so fab, we don’t even know where to begin. As if the canary yellow fringed steppers weren’t enough, the shaggy vest is straight-up goals.

J.Crew

While J.Crew is always a fan favorite around here, we were especially pleased to see them casting a slightly less catalog-perfect set of models this season. Tapping members of their design team as well as family and friends, the popular retailer opted to show their regular and Crewcuts line modeled on real people. In the models, you could visualize your best friend, younger sister, aunt or even next door neighbor (albeit a very stylish one). With such a broad customer base to attend to, this seems like a great move on J.Crew’s part.

12. Maternity Style Done Right: J.Crew stylist Jenny Kang, who also just so happens to be seven months pregnant, even decided to get in on all the fun. Not only does she look amazing, but she’s totally rocking that pale blue non-maternity jumpsuit. Take note, pregnant ladies: J.Crew can be worn throughout your pregnancy. For a GNO, finish off your look with a pair of dazzling statement earrings and sensible sandals. (Photo via Noam Galai/Getty)

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*The* Naomi Campbell Partnered With Two Young Designers To Debut A Collection For PrettyLittleThing

Get ready because Naomi Campbell helped design a collection for PrettyLittleThing. One of everyone's fave OG '90s supermodels partnered with the well-known fashion brand, bringing a line that's true to Campbell's unique style — sleek, sexy, and a little shiny.

PLT first teasedthe collection at the end of June, but managed to keep the actual aesthetic under wraps...until this week. Campbell and PLT debuted the line for New York Fashion Week at Cipriani, and you know the queen herself had to strut down the runway, too. While the collab stuck controversy due to PLT's roots in fast fashion, we can't help but love the looks.

You can shop this highly-anticipated, buzz worthy collection already! Here are the juicy details about the collab — and where to buy it. 😉

How did the Naomi Campbell and PrettyLittleThing collaboration start? 

When Vogueasked how the collaboration came to be, Naomi said, "I met Umar Kamani [cofounder of PrettyLittleThing], and I loved that he embraced that I wanted to work with young emerging talent and share the platform. So here we are!”

What was Naomi Campbell's response to the naysayers? 

Naomi Campbell is no stranger to criticism, and she told W Magazine she's privy to how people feel about fast fashion. "I understand what people are going to say, but I took it from a standpoint of getting to know the audience of the younger generation and being able to share my platform."

Who are the young designers Naomi Campbell worked with for her PLT collection?

Campbell partnered with designers Edvin Thompson (Theophilio) and Victor Anate (Vicnate).

What styles does the Naomi Campbell x PLT collection feature?

In what feels like an ode to the glamorous nights of the '90s, the Naomi Campbell and PrettyLittleThing collection pairs chiffon, mesh, and satin textures with smooth designs. From an embellished mesh dress to tailored blazers, this collection says, "It's okay to have bourgeois tastes while on a budget."

Is the Naomi Campbell x PLT collection available to shop?

It sure is! The collection can be found on PrettyLittleThing.

Black Embellished Mesh Backless High Neck Maxi

Shop Selects From The Naomi Campbell x PLT Collection Here

Image via PrettyLittleThing

Black Croc PU Bow Detail Bodycon Dress

Image via PrettyLittleThing

Black PU Oversized Trench Coat

Image via PrettyLittleThing

Black Tailored Satin Lapel Blazer Dress

Image via PrettyLittleThing

Silver Sequin High Neck Backless Bodycon Dress

Chartreuse Satin Extreme Cowl Bodycon Dress

It's too soon to say, but someone on our editorial team might invest in a cute dress from the Naomi Campbell and PrettyLittleThing collection for her birthday dinner...why are y'all looking at me?! 😇

How do you feel about this collab? Let us know in the comments!

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

Lead image via Theo Wargo/Getty Images

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Matty Healy Finally Responded To Taylor Swift's "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived"

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.

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The & Other Stories Spring Collection Is Trendy Yet Timeless

We realize it's not even March yet, but we are so ready for warmer spring weather. Along with the gentle change in the season comes a fresh set of fashion trends, and we're ready to hop on board. We got a peek at a ton of new trending styles at NYFW, and we're starting to see more trends emerge as spring approaches.

Though it's easy to shop with a trend-focused mind, collections like the & Other Stories Spring 2023 drop offer tons of timeless styles that can last you beyond one season. If you tend to stick to seasonal trends, consider how you can style the pieces you love all year long. Wear an oversized blazer with your go-to mock-neck top in the fall, then layer it over a flowy maxi dress for the spring and summer. This sustainable model for shopping and wearing can really stretch your wardrobe, and it allows you to be creative with your 'fits each time you get dressed!

The & Other Stories spring collection embraces pieces that can be worn for everyday looks, and statement picks to wear for special occasions. You'll see a lot of structured tailoring, long line coats, rosette details, and dainty accessories in soft pastels. We're excited to see some of our fave spring trends for this year and to start brainstorming how we're going to style them.

Emerging Spring 2023 Fashion Trends

These trends will be popping up everywhere this year. We're especially excited to sport winter florals, slime green pieces, and oversized blazers as spring approaches!
  • Sequins
  • Winter florals
  • Sheer pieces
  • Coquette styles
  • Slime green
  • Leather separates
  • Tailored styles
  • Maxi skirts
  • Oversized blazers
  • Denim

Our Favorite Pieces From The & Other Stories Spring 2023 Collection

Oversized Blazers

Oversized Padded Shoulder Blazer ($219)

A padded shoulder gives this oversized blazer lots of bold structure. Pair with workwear like wide-leg slacks for a chic office look, or wear over a mini slip dress on a girl's night out!

Oversized Parka Jacket ($149)

This jacket is structured, giving it a blazer feel with a cute outerwear twist. Layer it over bright colors for a stylish spring look.

Winter Florals

Buttoned V-Cut Midi Dress ($129)

A fitted dress enhances a super effortless feminine look. We love this midi spring dress because it's made of thin viscose fabric, making it a lighter wear, and easy to breathe in. Time to relish in the sweet spring breeze!

Printed Silk Blouse ($139)

This blouse embraces the same intricate floral pattern and colors in light cotton. Tuck in the curved hem with a fitted denim jean, and you've got yourself a new easy spring uniform.

Denim

Flared High Waist Jeans ($119)

Denim will never die, and we love that we're always seeing new, unique takes on the classic jean. This pair boasts two statement front pockets and a higher waistline to accentuate your figure, and give you a fun shape to pair your springtime tanks and sweaters with.

Treasure Cut Jeans ($99)

The Treasure Cut jean design features super wide legs and a high waist. These are truly a year-round closet staple because you can wear them with just about anything. For a casual look, throw on some Adidas sneakers and tuck in your fave band tee. To dress this jean up, layer on a light sweater and blazer with some ballerina flats!

Coquette

Embroidered Scalloped Edge Shirt ($119)

Coquette is a newer style term that embodies a feminine, flirty persona. You'll see a lot of frills, ribbons, florals, and lace, all in lighter pinks or whites. This organic cotton shirt flaunts frills on the cuffs and florals around the collar. We could see this piece being a cute go-to throughout the whole year.

Tie-Front Ribbed Cardigan ($99)

The tie-front cardigan is definitely an "add to bag" piece. The ribbons are the perfect understated take on the coquette trend, and make us feel all the girly feels.

Mulberry Silk Layered Frilled Blouse ($199)

This gorgeous blouse is a more courageous take on the coquette trend, with large shoulder frills and billowy puff sleeves. It's the perfect wear for springtime since it's loose-fitting — the long sleeves let you adapt to the chilly days, and but the carefree silhouette will keep you comfortable on warm days too.

Slime Green

Mock Neck Sweater ($59)

Slime green is a color we can totally get behind. It's electric and eye-catching, adding a ton of visual interest and pure fun to any outfit! You can totally crush this hue when paired with leather separates, like a black leather pant or oversized jacket.

Leather Separates

Curved Leather Shoulder Bag ($199)

If you are hesitant to dive fully in to the leather trend, dipping your toes in is made easy by accessorizing with leather pieces. This shoulder bag is sleek, so it's easy to pair with just about anything, plus it's super roomy so you can take all your daily necessities with you.

Heeled Leather Penny Loafers ($129)

Loafers are the hero of preppy style, and you can wear them with any springtime look. This pair is super comfortable, so catch us sporting these everywhere this season.

Strappy Kitten Heel Leather Sandals ($129)

A strappy sandal is the ultimate match for a floral dress when spring is in full swing. These also come in a vibrant teal blue color, so if you're feeling bold, go for that colorful look!

More of Our Fave Spring Trend Items

Wide Trousers ($119)

We can never get enough of a wide leg pant. These trousers are fit for a more formal spring look, and deliver all of the comfort.

Chunky Oval Hoop Earrings ($25)

Where would we be without our hoops? These chunky earrings wear well with any trendy spring outfit.

Cropped Knit Sweater ($49)

Cotton and wool blend together to form this warm sweater that you can throw on for cooler spring evenings. It comes in eight different colors, so you can pick your mood.

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Creative DIY Birthday Card Ideas Your Friends Will Love

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.

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11 Paleo Desserts That Don’t Make You Feel Like You’re On A Diet

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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