7 Common Bra (and Shapewear) Myths — Debunked

Allison Merzel
Nov 11, 2017

Shopping for the perfect bra or undergarment can be a lot like shopping for the perfect pair of jeans: They both require a lot of time, energy, and patience. If you’re anything like us, you find yourself pacing up and down the aisles in search of the right picks for what feels like an eternity, and the struggle doesn’t stop when you finally get to the fitting room. Why? Because not all garments are created equally, despite what the number on the size tag is telling you. Different fabrics and cuts can greatly alter the way something fits. So we went straight to the source (AKA bra experts) to get their advice — and make your next shopping experience a little smoother. Step one: Don’t fall for these common myths!

Myth: You only have one bra size

1. “It’s a myth that your bra size never changes! On average, it actually changes six times throughout your life,” says Ra’el Cohen, head of design for ThirdLove. Aside from the obvious reasons this might occur (hormones, weight fluctuation, pregnancy), your bandwidth and cup size could also vary due to a discrepancy between designers or US versus European labels. Therefore, know your sister sizes so you can go up or down if need be. For example, if you’re a 34C, you could also size down to a 32D or up to a 36B. Brit + Co Pick: ThirdLove 24/7 Lace T-Shirt Bra ($72)

Myth: shapewear is only for plus-size women

2. You can find the thinnest of women wearing some version of Spanx — it’s definitely not just for curvy girls. (Hello, look at the celebrities on the red carpet!) According to Item m6‘s brand director, Sanaz McCartney, their top-selling size in the shape category is actually a small. The body-hugging pieces work to hide any extra lumps and bumps or simply smooth things out. The options are endless and there’s a style for every shape. Brit + Co Pick: Item m6 Shaping Thong Bodysuit ($84)

Myth: a white bra goes undetected under your clothes

3. “The best way to keep your bra hidden is to find a color that matches or complements your skin tone,” says Cohen. A stark white bra will show through under both light and dark tops. Brands like ThirdLove have done a good job creating undergarments in a diverse range of colors to help solve this problem. Brit + Co Pick: ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Naked Bra ($68)

Myth: go a size smaller in shapewear

4. This idea is all kinds of wrong. Stick to your normal size when reaching for essential shapewear items. McCartney says you want to “define and support the silhouette, not constrict,” so look for breathable products that will slim and smooth — it’s that simple. Brit + Co Pick: Simply Perfect by Warner’s High Waist Thigh Slimmer ($20)

Myth: If you find a bra that works, wear it for life

5. All bras wear out over time, no matter how high-end the designer or cost. After a while garments will stretch, which means they’ll no longer be doing their job of lifting and supporting. Treat yourself to a new bra on the regular, ladies! Brit + Co Pick: Natori Feathers Underwire Contour Bra ($68)

Myth: Shapewear causes health issues

6. Thanks to innovations in fabric and design, gone are the days of suffocating undergarments and constricting silos. Nowadays, pieces are built to move with you, not against you — they’re stretchy and meant to be worn daily if need be. Brands even have built-in compression, which stimulates blood circulation to give you an extra energy boost. Brit + Co Pick: Spanx Spotlight on Lace Bodysuit ($74)

Myth: toss your bra in the washing machine

7. Washing machines (especially dryers) can wreak havoc on a bra, so stick to hand-washing when it comes to weekly cleaning. Opt for a gentle detergent or lingerie wash and hang dry. It’s a little extra effort, but it’s worth it since you’ll end up with longer-lasting garments. Brit + Co Pick: The Laundress Delicate Wash Detergent ($19)

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

25 Spicy Pieces Of Valentine's Day Lingerie That'll Make You Feel Infinitely Sexy

Whether you’re coupled up or playing the field, there’s always a reason to treat yourself, and Valentine’s Day is as good as any to scoop up some sexy bras + undies. Don't wait for someone else to buy you some sultry undergarments – with these Valentine's Day lingerie styles, you can pick out something special for yourself like, say, a floral bra or a lacy bodysuit. This way, regardless of your relationship status, you’re guaranteed to feel totally foxy this V-Day (and beyond)!

Scroll on and shop our favorite Valentine's Day lingerie pieces for every body type that are very much worth wearing in the bedroom, even after the holiday ends.

Torrid Floral Lace Strappy Bralette

This black number will make you feel like an absolute baddie. The strappy design highlights your top while still leaving something to be desired. Plus, it's wire-free, so you can embark on your Valentine's ventures with the utmost comfort.

Bluebella Catalina Bra

This sheer, lacy bra taps into floral motifs to bring on the romance!

Wild Lovers X Out From Under Sweetie Lace Underwire Bra

This light pink + magenta color palette is everything for V-Day! Make it a complete set with the matching thong.

Coquette Underwire Bra, Garter Belt & Thong Set

This 3-piece set is super affordable, but looks like pure luxury. If you've never experienced the sheer power of a garter belt, now's your chance!

Harper Wilde Bliss Scoop Bralette

Let the gals sit nicely with this ultra-comfy bra. The bust hugs your bod flawlessly, so you can focus on your self-love sesh or together time with your boo. This is an excellent everyday bra to sport once Valentine's szn is over, since it's very lightweight and sleek. We also adore the Harper Wilde Luxe Mesh Plunge Bra if you're shopping for a cheekier Valentine's Day lingerie piece!

Cacique Intimates Embroidered Lace-Up Bodysuit

Embrace your soft girl era this February with florals and frills! This bodysuit has it all, plus flaunts a sexy mesh feel and tiny bow details for added cuteness.

Intimately Heart To Heart Bralette + Bikini Undies + Garter

This Valentine's Day lingerie combo might be delicate, but it'll make you feel super powerful once you've slid into all three pieces. The light pink color is girly AF, allowing you to tap into your divine feminine this Feb 14th.

Out From Under Flora Embroidered Bustier

Hearts are super fitting for the holiday, but this bustier has small embroidered hearts *and* sweet lil' cherries?! We're obsessed. The demi cup neckline only adds to the delicate coquette vibe!

Oh La La Cheri Kinsley Underwire Lace Trim Sheer Chemise

Pair this see-through chemise with a cheeky G-string (or nothing at all 😉) to feel your absolute sexiest this V-Day. Your partner will be ready to play once they see you wearing it!

Fleur du Mal Queen of Hearts Balconette Bra + V-String + Garter Belt

Shopping for heart-covered lingerie? We got you! This trio is just the thing you should rock this Valentine's Day if you wanna go the more revealing route.

Out From Under Budapest Love High Sheer Lace Undie

These lace-covered panties are a great piece of Valentine's Day lingerie that you can *also* wear for sexy sessions all year long! The silhouette is fairly modest, but the cutout in the back is truly what makes this pair flirty enough for the holiday.

Savage x Fenty Baroque Bondage Unlined Balconette Bra + Panty

Okay, this lingerie set is giving burlesque dancer, and we love it. Tap into your most sultry self by donning a black get-up like this lacy, fishnet-clad look.

For Love & Lemons Cordelia Slip Dress

If managing multiple pieces of Valentine's Day lingerie sounds a little too high-maintenance for your liking, a slip dress is what you need. They're usually super silky like this fiery red one is, only upping your comfort levels as you navigate the bedroom (or wherever else you like to get it on 😏)!

Out From Under Cherie Sheer Lace Babydoll Cami

This sexy top can double as some seriously girly nightwear once V-Day passes. Self-care has never looked cuter!

Cacique Intimates Lace-Trim Lightly Lined Balconette Bra + Panty

This has got to be our fave Valentine's Day lingerie set so far. The bra + panties feature some red-hot strap adjusters that'll guide you toward the perfect fit around your shoulders and hips. Not to mention those darling bows!

Victoria's Secret Rosebud Embroidery Unlined Corset Babydoll Set

The only thing better than receiving flowers for Valentine's is wearing them! This baby pink set boasts a bountiful bloom around the bust that'll leave your partner looking all night long. 👀​

Harper Wilde Luxe Mesh Thong

This thong flaunts a uniquely thick upper band that won't cut into you. This is a truly practical lingerie pick that infuses sexy vibes whether you're wearing in the day-to-day or exclusively for Valentine's.

Adore Me Ivana Unlined Bodysuit

With this bodysuit that ties up in a bow, you'll be the real gift this V-Day.

Playful Promises Eddie Crossover Thong

This bold, layered panty has something new to explore with every turn. Between the cutie crossing panels and the visible pieces of hardware, it still does a seamless job at supporting you in every position. 😋

Anthropologie Giselle Lace Bustier

We adore the fact that you can easily take this bustier from the bedroom to the streets – there's enough coverage for everyday wear (especially under a sweater or denim jacket), but when it comes to cozy time, this piece will look iconic with some matching undies.

Intimately Lady Lux Bodysuit

This sheer bodysuit will turn the heat up for sure. Wear it with absolutely nothing for an unforgettable piece of Valentine's Day lingerie.

Gooseberry Intimates Wildflower Bra + Thong

This bra + thong pairing doesn't shy away from color, as it features an array of embroidered floral blooms along all sides.

Torrid French Hearts 3 Piece Cup Babydoll Slip

It's not Valentine's Day lingerie if there's no hearts involved! That's why this black + pink slip is the perfect 'add to cart.'

Intimately Lacey Essential Cami

This cami top is adorned in lovely lace that amps up its feminine air. For a cozy Valentine's Day lingerie ensemble, wear this design with matching panties or boyshorts that invite a lazy day in bed.

Kilo Brava Embroidered Mesh Underwire Teddy

The boning in this bodysuit work to sculpt your figure, drawing in the waist for a sensual feel. The lace design feels super Victorian, adding a dash of romance into your V-day (and beyond)! ❤️​


Want more sexy style inspo? Follow us on Pinterest and shop our Amazon storefront!

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

Images via brands.

This post has been updated.

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Desperate For Long Nails? How To Finally Make Your Nails Grow Faster

Nails breaking constantly? Wishing you didn't have to rely on tips at the salon? Desperate for that long nail look? You’re not alone. Despite it being used as an annoying and vapid phrase women would say in TV shows, breaking a nail is very painful and can ruin a (usually expensive) manicure. But don’t fret — we’ve rounded up five simple ways to get your nails to grow longer and stronger.

What causes weak fingernails?

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

But first, what causes unhealthy, brittle, breakable nails? A lot of factors that may not instantly come to mind. According to WebMD, these factors can contribute to weak nails:

  • Aging: As we get older, our nails get thinner and can crack or peel.
  • Harsh nail products: Both nail polish and nail polish remover can have strong chemicals that can damage and dry out your nails, leading them to break.
  • Wet nails: Consistently have your hands in water, maybe doing the dishes or bathtime for the kids? This could be drying out your nails.
  • Underlying health issues: Vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, and many other health issues could be the cause of nails breaking.

How can I strengthen my nails?

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Dealing with some of these factors? While we can’t help you with the underlying health issues (please see a doctor if you think you may be dealing with something!), there are many easy things you can do to improve your nails and encourage growth.

  • Cuticle oil
  • Biotin
  • Diet
  • Nail protection
  • Avoid picking and peeling
Here's why each factor is important, plus how you can go about successfully achieving them.

Find a Cuticle Oil

You may only use cuticle oil when your manicurist applies it, but that doesn't have to be the case. Cuticle oils are an inexpensive and easy way to promote nail health and growth by keeping your nails hydrated. Cosmetically, cuticle oils encourage longer-lasting manis and leave your nails looking shiny and polished. But they do much more below the surface: cuticle oils create a healthier environment that allows strong growth for your nails.

Interested in adding cuticle oil to your beauty routine? Check our a few of my faves:

Photo via Cora Pursley/Dupe

Explore Biotin

Biotin is an important type of B vitamin that helps our bodies turn food into energy. It’s also one of the top recommended supplements for hair and nail growth, and for good reason. Many scientists say a daily biotin supplement can improve nail strength in as little as a few weeks.

“Since it is water soluble, biotin (or vitamin B7) can’t be stored in the body and must be acquired from diet or through supplementation,” shared Rachel Kilroy, Director of Product Innovation at Solaray, the original pioneers in supplement health and wellness. Solaray has developed a new supplement that provides biotin in a unique way.

“Solaray’s Timed Release Biotin strategically supports nail health with a powerful 5,000 mcg of this important nutrient, delivering half of the biotin rapidly and the other half gradually over a period of up to 8 hours for sustained support,” Kilroy continued. “With consistent use, this vegan formula—lab verified for purity and potency—can provide comprehensive support for longer, stronger nails.”

Supplements not your thing? Biotin can be found naturally in many foods, like cooked eggs, whole grains, soy and other beans, nuts and nut butters, salmon, mushrooms, and cauliflower.

Photo via Daniella Cappellari/Dupe

Eat A Nail Friendly Diet

Nails require a balanced, healthy diet for proper growth and strength. According to Medical News Today, making small tweaks to your diet can make a big impact on your nails. Adding in nutrients like more iron or calcium in your diet will have your nails growing long and strong.

Dieticians recommend a colorful diet for nail growth consisting of colorful fruits and veggies, nuts, seeds, eggs, lean meat, avocado, sweet potato, and whole grains.

Photo via Sash Gabriel/Dupe

Protect Your Nails While Wet

Constantly doing dishes, managing bath time, gardening, or swimming? The water may be the cause of your breakage.

Your nails are like sponges, constantly expanding and contracting when water goes in or out of the nail cells. This can strain your nails, causing them to weaken, peel, and then break.

When possible, grab a pair of rubber gloves to wear while cleaning to protect your nails from the water and make sure to fully dry your nails after they’re in water. Hand creams are also a win for your nails after water exposure.

Avoid Picking, Peeling or Biting

Bad habits that are addicting. While peeling off your gel manicure can be so satisfying, it’s one of the worst things you can do for your nails. Same with constantly picking or biting your nails. As someone who used to constantly bite her nails down, I can assure you my nails are much healthier and stronger after kicking that habit.

Want to quit that habit? Try a nail bite deterrent, like this one from ella+mia or this one from LONDONTOWN and watch your nails grow before your eyes.

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

Header image via Laura Walt/Dupe

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The Parade x GANNI Collab Will Make You Feel Like A Bad B*tch

Parade always keeps the hot stuff comin’, and this time around, it’s a collection made in collaboration with Scandi fashion brand, GANNI. More recently focused on bringing colorful, contemporary ready-to-wear pieces to the historically minimalistic Scandinavian style, the Denmark-founded brand surely doesn’t shy away from boldness in this new edit. We’re talking certified-recycled undies and bralettes flaunting mis-matched cheetah prints, campy lace-up details, and also, Parade’s first-ever patchwork catsuit! Speaking of firsts, the wide range of sizes (from XS to 3XL) available in the latest collection mark GANNI’s *very first* size-inclusive underwear collab – something for every size (and Scandi lover) to celebrate! Peep the picks below for your hottest summer look yet.

GANNI Glow 2-Piece Set ($72, was $85)

This set is infused with an electric green hue that runs thorough the cheeky bottoms and bralette paneling up top, and makes for the best lounging-around-at-home outfit that'll *also* boost your confidence.

GANNI Luminous Glow Triangle Bralette ($55)

If you're not feeling like sporting the whole set, the Glow Triangle Bralette still comes in with total comfort. You'll feel so sexy whether it's worn under a -t-shirt or alone as a sleek summer-proof top.

GANNI Satin Lace-Up Cheeky Underwear ($30)

Expressing your bold femininity is what this collab is all about, and this underwear pair makes sure that's known. Embellished with an adorable lace-up feature and an embroidered brand mark, this pick has all the details to elevate your best self.

GANNI Catsuit ($95)

This patchwork piece is the true star of the Parade underwear collab. The GANNI Catsuit embraces the mix-and-match trend in the most vibrant way possible, somehow making cheetah print and florals flow together seamlessly. Style this statement garment to turn heads and simply serve.

GANNI Triangle Bralette ($50)

Playing with the more delicate side of the collaboration is this super easy-to-wear bralette. It comes in this precious blue-hued floral print or an eye-catching hot pink cheetah pattern. Whatever you choose to wear, we know you'll look amazing, babes!

GANNI High-Cut Thong ($22)

Things are heating up! 🔥 This thong is "one that even thong haters swear by," according to Parade, and the fiery, daring print available only in the new collaboration makes the pair even more lovable.

GANNI High Rise Cheeky Underwear ($24)

Not *as* revealing as the High-Cut Thong, but equally as sexy, comes this cheeky underwear. The subtly added coverage allows for some playful embroidery on your backside – guaranteed to keep that special someone's eyes locked on you, and only you.

GANNI Cheeky 2-Piece Set ($63, was $74)

This'll be our at-home summer uniform until the heat dwindles, TBH. The duo covers your bod just enough to be a practical wear, while the mesh fabric cools you down from oh-so scorching temps!

GANNI Thong 2-Piece Set ($61, was $72)

Sometimes, the confidence high you get from wearing a steamy matching set is well worth the purchase. Enter, the Thong 2-Piece set that boasts an energetic hot pink animal pattern, all in a flattering thong and bralette style!

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Yulin Kuang’s Debut Novel “How To End A Love Story” Is Summer's Hottest Book Club Pick

I've got a thing for Reese Witherspoon's book club which is why I couldn't wait to get my hands on Yulin Kuang's debut novel How to End a Love Story. Chosen as Reese's Book Club's May Pick, it features a romance that almost shouldn't make sense. I mean, when's the last time you realized you trauma bonded with someone? Except Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard's character arcs as well as the entire plot of How to End a Love Story doesn't even feel like that.

Instead, Yulin uncannily peels back the layers of what it means to be a layered human being who happens to be carrying trauma, talent, success, imposter syndrome, and burning desire in their hearts. Even that doesn't scratch the surface of who Helen and Grant are. Trying to capture their essence feels like I'm stumbling over my words which points to how great this novel is and that means Yulin's goal has been accomplished.

Though she loves perfectly executed rom-coms and is fortunate to be working on them in the filmmaking space, she doesn't consider How to End a Love Story as one. "...I was searching for something more aligned with the Brontë sensibility of romance in the writing of this book. Less warmth and charm, more id-level storytelling and unchecked carnal desire," she explains.

Yulin Kuang's Journey To "How To End A Love Story"

Image via Zach Wallnau

Some people seem to be born knowing they're destined to right, but some of us stumble into it and realize, "Hey, I'm pretty good at this." For Yulin, her journey to her debut novel How to End a Love Story takes the latter route. Her first dream, you make ask? To be an Olympic figure skater.

"...that didn't pan out so I turned to storytelling," Yulin admits. That pivot led her to set her sights on becoming an author as she began honing her creative writing skills via your classic marble composition notebooks. If you're still wondering if she kept some of them, the answer is yes!

The screenwriter and author then found herself drawn to other aspects of writing and film. She says, "I eventually fell in love with screenwriting and directing while in undergrad at Carnegie Mellon, and I spent my first decade post-grad concentrating on my filmmaking career."

Yulin Kuang's Approach To Filmmaking

It's a reason why her hard work and the stars aligned for her to adapt Emily Henry's Beach Read and People We Meet on Vacation.

When I ask what helps her approach the book-to-film trajectory, she credits writing fan fiction. This feels similar to Christina Lauren's own experience, further proving that fan fiction deserves the utmost praise for helping some of the best literary and film minds who ultimately birth what I could only describe as masterpieces.

Yulin says, "Fan fiction is where I first learned you could play with characters originated by someone else to discover what you’d make them do in your own version." Although it would be easy for anyone to snap their fingers and have their first pitches accepted by everyone, she learned to lean on what writing fan fiction taught her.

"Early in my career, I would pitch on book-to-film adaptations and I’d be like, 'Change nothing, just shoot the book!' And I wouldn’t get those jobs, because I didn’t have a clear “take” and because you can’t actually just shoot a book – adaptation is an art form unto itself. So onceI started approaching adaptation with more of a fan fiction mindset – 'What is my take on these characters and this world?' – that helped me approach the book-to-screen trajectory more successfully," she proudly says.

However, this doesn't mean she never questioned if she could still find ways to create new ideas. "...in 2021, at a time when everything else I was working on was an adaptation, I found myself wondering if I had anything original left within me," she remembers.

It's natural for creatives to experience moments of doubt, but Yulin has been able to turn the tide and discover untapped ideas in her mind. Just don't expect her to set her own expectations about any adaptations she's working on.

She says, "Know that I am an avid reader of romance and a frequent consumer of this genre across mediums, and I will be bringing everything I know going into these adaptations. But more specifically to Beach Read, which I have more creative ownership over as the writer/director."

How Yulin Kuang Relates To Her Main Characters In "How To End A Love Story"

And since How to End a Love Story is truly Yulin's own creative body of work, it makes sense that main characters Helen and Grant have pieces of her personality as well as her characteristics.

"I gave Helen all my hopes and insecurities from high school and gave her the alternate universe path where I had pursued publishing instead of Hollywood. I examined what might have happened if I’d grown into certain qualities I’ve actively tried to grow away from," she says of Helen Zhang.

Right away, readers get the sense that Helen is a whip-smart and hardworking, but her penchant for being cautious about her success also peeks through. Though she's written highly successful YA (read: young adult) novels, Helen waits with bated breath for the moment people will call her bluff. She's relatable because many of us wonder if we're simply cosplaying as versions of ourselves who've reached any level of success.

On the other hand, there's Grant Shepard. He's seemingly this cool, calm, and collected screenwriter who has a complicated past with Helen. Yulin says, "I gave Grant a lot of the qualities I’m proud of and/or have coveted as a working screenwriter, and I certainly relate to many of his thoughts on screenwriting and the current state of our industry."

The more the reader learns about Helen and Grant, the more it becomes obvious that there's more to them than meets the eye. Sure, they are complicated...but who isn't?

"At their core, Helen and Grant are just two kids from Jersey trying to make it in Hollywood, and of course I relate deeply to that," she says.

Yulin Kuang's View Of Rom-Coms

Based on Yulin's genuine interest in romance novels and the fact she's well-versed in adapting them, she knows what it takes to make rom-coms flourish. Her first take? "Romantic tension is key to any romance – I always need to know why our couple can’t be together now. The second that tension is gone, so is audience interest," she points out.

This explains why we can't get enough of reading books about it, listening to albums dedicated to it, or watching films that depict all levels of romance. Still, there are some people who approach the genre with a side eye.

"There seems to be a natural human suspicion of things that make us feel too good – like, 'That can’t possibly be good for us, that’s just candy!' I wonder if it’s something evolutionary at work," she says before doubling down. "You can’t argue with the fact that people absolutely fucking love rom-coms, and I will die on the hill that a well-earned happily ever after is both harder to achieve and more narratively satisfying when it’s pulled off successfully."

She's the type of writer who really appreciates a big kiss that's handled correctly onscreen, but she's also not afraid to "groan every time it's fumbled." But, she knows everyone still won't see romance the way she and so many others view it, but she doesn't really care.

"Ultimately, I don’t concern myself too much with changing minds that don’t want to be changed.There are enough smart people who recognize the power and value of rom-coms, and I’d rather spend my precious time creating art to surprise and delight the people with good taste."

Need I say that this is yet another reason why How to End a Love Story works so well?

How Yulin Kuang Wishes The World Would Celebrate AAPI Month

As much as she's vocal about screenwriting and rom-coms, Yulin also has thoughts about the way society-at-large talks about BIPOC creative artists. "There’s a real, 'This is important, eat your vegetables,' vibe to things. And while that might be true, it’s not the most appealing way to market or discover art," she says.

She admits this could be due to how many diversity-in-film panels she's attended. As a Black woman, the conversations I see every year during Black History Month seem to have a certain "Let's check this box so everyone can be happy" vibe, so I can imagine attending panels about diversity and inclusion can start to sound repetitive after awhile.

Yulin doesn't hold back when she says, "I’m a little jaded when people ask me diversity questions at this point. I don’t want to attract the kind of readers who are only showing up to be supportive of my Asian-ness. It’s a bit like showing up to a date where someone says, 'I’m so excited that you’re Asian!!!'" This is an analogy I can so get behind because it makes a lot of sense!

It's one thing to have representation, but I like to think it's always obvious when people are approaching the conversation in a way that 'others' BIPOC people. We're literally not asking for a trophy, but more so an acknowledgement that we shouldn't be excluded from conversations, spaces, and careers or treated differently.

This sentiment is shared by Yulin who says, "That’s the thing about me that I didn’t do on purpose, and while I’m glad you’re excited, I hope there are things that I did do on purpose that you find exciting, too" and feels there is a way to be a genuine ally.

"...support AAPI creatives by all means, and perhaps begin by celebrating us as individual artists even after the designated month ends. And where applicable, talk about our work like it’s candy, not vegetables. I’d rather be irresistible than important," she states.

Take a page from Yulin Kuang's book and pick up a copy of How to End a Love Story today! You won't regret it!

Looking for more reading recs? Be sure to check out our storefront for more of our fave books!

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

Lead image via Amazon

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The 20 Best Deals For Up To 80% Off During Amazon's Book Sale

Calling all BookTok, bookstagrammers, and leisurely readers: the Amazon Book Sale has landed! I can barely contain myself because there’s so many great titles — including more than a few picks from Reese Witherspoon’s book club — that Amazon is discounting for it’s special reading crowd.

I know I’ve been stuck on romantasy books for a while (sorry, not sorry!), but there’s so many other great picks you’ll be able to snag on sale. And if you’re a Kindle type of woman, you’re not being left out.

Amazon isn’t leaving any stone unturned with this sale so let’s jump right into what to expect and which books are on sale right now!

When is the Amazon Book Sale?

Image via Amazon

The Amazon Book Sale began May 15 and will end on May 20, so you still have time to add very discounted books to your TBR list!

What should I expect from the Amazon Book Sale?

Image via Amazon

The Amazon Book Sale will feature titles from different genres that you can save up to 50% on. Not only that, but Kindle users can save up to 80% on books! In case you’re wondering, you're not dreaming — this is really, really good.

The best news about the sale is that you can start shopping deals NOW. So, what are you waiting for! Take a peek at our picks!

Are Kindle books included in the Amazon Book Sale?

Image via Amazon

Yes! You'll be able to find a plethora of discounted kindle books during the Amazon Book Sale. The best news is that you can access three months of Kindle Unlimitedfor $0!

Shop Book Editors' Picks During the Amazon Sale

None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell

Alix Summer and Josie Fair quickly become friends after a chance meeting on their birthdays. They seem to have things in common which leads Alix to feature Josie on her podcast. But the closer they get, the more Alix feels conflicted about her new friend.

Before she can piece together her concerns, Josie has found her way into every part of Alix's life and it's only after she disappears that Alix realizes how much danger she's in.

Bad Summer People by Emma Rosenblum

Jen Weinstein and her friend Lauren Parker are ever popular in Salcombe, Fire Island during the summer season. They seem to have a hold on anyone that comes in contact with them, including their husbands. However, there's no denying that grudges have been steadily building over the years due to things unspoken. And Rachel Woolf? Well, she's just there to have a great time even if it's at someone else's expense.

However, who knows more than they're willing to share and who would be so angry that they'd commit a murder?

Weyward by Emilia Hart

Weyward is a moving novel that alternates between various timelines and involves a family's mystical powers.

In the present time of 2019, Kate takes refuge at her great-aunt's cottage that's worlds away from the person she's afraid of. She's not entirely sure, but she can't shake the feeling that there was more to her great-aunt than was outwardly presented.

The timeline of 1619 is then introduced and readers get to know Altha, a woman who's accused of having something to do with a farmer's death. The thing is Altha truly does know magic associated with the world around her, but people are on edge and will do anything to have a witch trial.

Then in 1942, we meet young Violet who feels trapped in more ways than one. She wants nothing more than to live a life that's not confined by hiding behind society's expectations of women. Her only connection to her mother and her past is finding the word 'weyward' in her bedroom, thus setting off a chain of events that lead back to 2019.

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It Ends With Us & It Starts With Us Box Set by Colleen Hoover

For the first time ever, get your hands on the limited edition box set of Colleen Hoover's finest, It Ends With Us and It Starts With Us!

It Ends With Us begins with Lily believing that Ryle couldn't be more perfect for her despite his tendency to be rough around the edges. There's also the fact that he's not 100% open to dating. But, they somehow form a sort of love dance that becomes a romantic relationship. However, this is challenged when her first love Atlas comes back into her life.

It Starts With Us finds Lily and Ryle divorced, but they still communicate on friendly terms. But when Atlas comes into the picture again, Lily doesn't hesitate to let him into her world. It shouldn't feel complicated, but she knows that Atlas is the last man Ryle wants around. The ending is just as shocking, poignant, and beautiful as It Ends With Us.

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

Still excited that the movie adaptation of Red, White & Royal Blue is getting a sequel that'll premiere on Amazon Prime? Me too, but we'll have to wait for more news to drop about it! Until then, we can revisit our favorite couple by Casey McQuiston's book that's on sale for $15!

House of Ash and Shadow by Leia Stone

Fallon Bane spends a great deal of her life being untouched because of a lethal curse she was born with. Despite her acceptance, she still yearns for intimacy. To make matters worse, her father's own health becomes comprised which leads her to seek out help from a healer fae — Ariyon Madden.

He not only begins helping her, but he always touches her in a way she's never experienced before. Fallon is shocked that she's still ver much alive and things finally seem to look bright for her. That is until Ariyon tells other powerful fae about her.

From there, Fallon learns the truth about who her family is and why her curse exists..

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

Young Feyre commits an offense agains the immortal and very powerful fae that sends her to their magical world. Though she's away from a life of poverty and tension, she misses her family.

Still, she resides in the home of the 'beast' who allows her to live in his home — Tamlin. What she quickly realizes is that he's actually one of the powerful faes and that she's not the kind of prisoner she thinks she is. Even more, she begins questioning everything she'd learned about the Fae world because it's not quite like what mortals say it is.

As the hostility between Feyre and Tamlin dies down, an ancient evil continues spreading through his world and it'll be up to Feyre to help stop it.

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The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn

Anna Fox has agoraphobia so she spends time by herself at home by herself and fills her days with drinking, watching comfort movies, and being a nosy neighbor. That's how she knows a new family — The Russells — have moved across from her.

She continues her usually nosy activities and finds herself witnessing something that seems horribly wrong. As she frantically tries to piece together the mystery of what happened, it becomes clear that the lines of her imagination and reality have become blurred.

Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah

Kate Mularkey was never the popular girl until she met her best friend Tully. Their lives are polar opposite, but there's no denying how tight their bond is. Over time we learn that Tully has abandonment issues and looks for anyone — especially men — to love her. Her journey takes her to the big apple where she achieves all the glitz and glamour that life has to offer.

Kate goes on to become a wife and mother, two things she believes she wants, but it becomes clear that she's missing something. That something is what begins to burn a hole in her being and the more she watches her best friend Tully live a successful life, the more she wants that for herself too.

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

Elena Richardson and Mia Warren go to warn in this moving novel about classism. It dares to ask readers who deserves to be seen as a shining example of a mother as both women eventually face how far they're willing to go to protect those they love.

For Elena, Shaker Heights is all she's ever known. She's married, has four children, and is well-loved in her community. She believes that she's been able to achieve everything she has because she knows how to be the woman who doesn't color outside of the lines.

On the other hand, Mia is an artist who knows all about creating masterpieces with elements that are otherwise seen as messy. She and her daughter Pearl become a little too close to the Richardsons, finding their lives dangerously intertwined with them.

When a custody battle ensues that involves the young daughter of Mia co-worker, she finds herself willing to dismantle the pretty facade of not only Shaker Heights, but Elena as well.

Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed (Only 2 Left in Stock)

Cheryl Strayed has spent over 10 years dishing out advice as 'Dear Sugar' has touched people with her columns, podcast Dear Sugars, and Substack. Deciding to compile all of the best things she's ever told people, Cheryl Strayed pieced together Tiny Beautiful Things so that readers around the world won't have to look far for her empathetic wisdom.

Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn

Georgia Mulcahy is the ultimate people-pleaser and her career is the epitome of it. She'd probably always be that way had it not been for a unexpected career change that sends her packing back home. Begrudgingly, she goes and soon discovers a diary where she once wrote down all of her heart's desires.

This inspires her to start checking things off her life's to-do list so that she can really start living. It's just that Levi Fanning is somehow her unexpected roommate while she's at her parents' home and his offer to help her complete her list feels like something she didn't know she'd encounter.

The more they spend time together, the more Georgie feels like there's more to life than checking off things on a list.

The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict

The Mitford sisters have always been the talk of the town, but nothing is as shocking as when one of the sisters decides she'd rather devote herself to a fascist leader. Another sister decides it's worth following her and this leads people to whisper salacious things about her alleged relationship with Hitler.

As the war between Great Britain and Germany threaten to spill over, their sister Nancy can't help but wonder what her sisters have gotten themselves into. She'll have to decide where her own allegiance lies.

Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle

Daphne Bell has always known how long she'll be with a man before moving on to the next one. It's not that she's flighty, but more so that the universe literally tells her what to expect. These little nudges have been in her life for over two decades and it's something she's learned to accept.

However, the universe decides to be cryptic by only clueing her in on the name of the next man she'll spend time with. It's odd because if Jake knew the things she did, there's a chance he could walk away from her forever and that's the last thing Daphne wants.

On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass

Brighton Hills appears to be a picturesque place to live. It's a community that beautifully blends luxurious living with the gorgeous nature that surrounds it and the neighbors always have their eyes on each other.

However, Cora's desire to find out if her husband is having an affair leads her to form a partnership with Paige. She's the one neighbor that Cora knows keeps a watchful eye on what's going on in Brighton Hills after her son died.

The two women work together to discover what Cora's husband is really up to, but what they may stumble across will send a shockwave through Brighton Hills.

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Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalo

The Prince of Envy is struggling to save his demon court in Throne of the Fallen, but he's determined to find a way to do so. He's not afraid of the magic and mysterious people that keep crossing his path because nothing can stop his fierce desire to regain the control he once has.

Things are seemingly no different from Miss Camilla Antonius because she's facing blackmail by someone who literally makes her skin crawl. In order to change her fate, she reluctantly joins forces with The Prince of Envy and thus begins their dangerous journey through the Underworld.

It's the one place that may pull them together in more ways than one.

The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen

Hart spends most of his time patrolling Tanria, but the loneliness does nothing to keep him company. Things couldn't be any different for Mercy though. She's tasked with making sure things are running properly at Birdsall & Son Undertakers and doesn't have time for anyone's foolery.

Ironically, Hart and Mercy both have taken up writing mysterious letters to strangers who have become their friends. The thing is they're not aware they've been communicating with each other.

It's a classic enemies-to-loves fantasy novel that'll make you smile with glee.

The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose

Molly Gray is the Head Maid at the prestigious Regency Grand Hotel and runs a tight ship that makes sure the hotel maintains a flair that guests have become accustomed to. All is going well until successful author J.D. Grimthorpe suddenly collapses and is pronounced dead.

This lands Detective Stark — someone Molly doesn't exactly get along with — back on the scene as it's realized there's something terribly wrong going on. Anyone could be a suspect, including Molly. It'll be up to her to revisit things she's kept secret — like the trip she took to Grimthorpe's property long ago.

Happy Place by Emily Henry

Emily Henry knows exactly what it takes to write a moving novel that's filled with friendship, laughter, and romance. That's why it's not surprising that Happy Place is well loved by #BookTok and #Bookstagram.

It's all about how a once happy couple — Harriet and Wyn — find themselves embroiled in an interesting ruse so their friends don't suspect something's wrong with them. The fact is that they're no longer together and can barely stand being in the same room anymore.

It would be find if they weren't expected to happily show up to the cottage that's become the yearly hub for them and their friends. Still, they begrudgingly decide to make an appearance.

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For the first time, you'll be able to read Happy Place on Kindle for $5!

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This post has been updated.

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