13 Cardigans That You’ll Live in This Winter

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Quiet luxury had a beautiful run in 2023, but the mob wife aesthetic has entered the style group chat and is telling everyone their days of embracing side character energy is over. When I think of this trend, I can picture Elvira Hancock from Scarface and Carmela Soprano from The Sopranos in all of their glamorous glory. Also, while she may not have been a mob wife exactly, we can't forget Fran Drescher's style in The Nanny her gaudy and expressive style continues to have impactful influence.

While I'll never suggest your lifestyle has to mirror the mob wife aesthetic, I do have a few tricks up my sleeve that'll help you effortlessly embody it.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Coats

Alice + Olivia Jarrett Vegan Leather Maxi Coat

The first unofficial rule of this trend is to make sure your winter coats are top tier. You'll want to go for a classic silhouette — similar to this vegan leather maxi coat — that makes a subtle statement. I've found that hunter green coats serve as a great neutral for just about anything in your closet so you can't go wrong with this!

Nasty Gal Raw Denim Oversized Trench Coat

For something that's the perfect mix of casual and edgy, this denim oversized trench coat will get the job done. It's a gentle nod to the mob wife aesthetic that's sure to elevate your outfits.

Nasty Gal Premium Bonded Faux Leather Borg Maxi Aviator Jacket

Should you want something that feels more casual without skimping on style, this maxi aviator jacket is an option you'll love wearing.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Blazers

Michael Michael Kors Metallic Tweed Jacket

One of the best parts about the mob wife aesthetic are the cute blazers you get to wear. This metallic tweed jacket can be worn with a pair of tailored trousers or straight leg jeans if you're headed to brunch during the day.

ALESSANDRA RICH Zebra-Printed Cotton Blazer

Make a statement with this zebra print blazer! You may even stop traffic because it commands attention.

Alexia Admor Olya Notch Lapel Belted Blazer

Ah, here's another gorgeous green number that lets people know that you're standing on business despite how chic you may look.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Blouses

Lulu's Black Chiffon Top

Thanks to the mob wives aesthetic, this is the year your closet will have a few more blouses added to it.

Banana Republic Crinkle Volume-Sleeve Blouse

If the thought of wearing chiffon makes you shudder, you can wear this volume-sleeve blouse.

Alice + Olivia Finely Open Back Button Blouse

I'm a huge fan of blouses that have the "business in the front, party in the back" detail like Alice + Olivia's design.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Skirts

H&M Knit A-line Mini Skirt

Keep it cute and chic with this knit A-line mini skirt.

Vince Leather Straight Skirt (Hickory)

Or, bring the drama with a midi leather skirt that has the mob wife aesthetic written all over it.

Meshki Mura Pleated Mini Skirt (Lemon)

For a playful look, pair this pleated mini skirt with a cute blazer or knit sweater.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Dresses

Hutch Asymmetrical Lace Mix Slip Dress

This lace slip dress has enough sex appeal for the both of us!

Reformation Felda Dress (Leo)

Whether you're dining at the most popular Italian restaurant in town or heading straight to a blues club, this dress falls in line with the mob wife aesthetic.

Reformation Irisa Dress (Grand Dame)

I can see it now — you wearing this dress with a cute cardigandraped over your shoulders.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Tights

Calzedonia Tulle 40 Dernier Lace Ruffle Thigh Highs

I highly recommend that you consider pairing these tights with the above Reformation Irisa dress!

Spanx Plush Tummy Shaping Tights

However, you can a touch of mystery to your mob wife aesthetic by wearing tights that aren't sheer.

Wolford Josey Tights

Your expressive outfit won't be complete without these leopard print tights from Wolford!

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Earrings

Ana Luisa Tia Medium Gold

Bring on the gold hoop earrings!

Merjuri Easy Huggie Hoops

If you have multiple ear piercings, Merjuri's gold hoops are a quaint accessory that's still on par with this fun trend.

Kendra Scott Mikki Pave Huggie Earrings in Gold

Another option is to wear a pair of small hoop earrings that are encrusted with gems.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Bracelets

Baublebar Melissa Cuff Bracelet

Let your wrist do the talking with Baublebar's gold cuff bracelet.

Abott Lynn Mini Heart Birthstone Bracelet (Gold)

Wear your heart and birthstone on your wrist!

Ross-Simons 18kt Gold Over Sterling Jewelry Set: Three Bolo Bracelets

Break out this 18kt gold bracelet set for during date night.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Boots

Dolce Vita Gyra Boots (Black Leather)

Three words — sexy knee high boots.

Jessica Simpson Brykia Boot (Malbec)

If you have a Merlot-colored coat at home, wear it with this pointed-toe boot.

Gianni Bini x Nastia Liukin Parker Crocodile Embossed Leather Tall Boots

Crocodile embossed boots are the thing to wear if you still want to turn heads in a toned down outfit.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Heels

Christian Louboutin So Kate Patent Pointed-Toe Red Sole Pump

The mob wives aesthetic is practically begging for you to have at least one pair of significant black pumps.

Public Desire Legacy Gold Croc Barely There Pointed Toe Stiletto Heels

However, glamour is on the other line and it wants you to throw caution to the wind by wearing gold heels.

Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed Toe Pump (Brown Brahma)

If the rest of your outfit is starting to feel like quiet luxury, slip into these brown and cream patterned pumps to wake it up.

How do you feel about the mob wife aesthetic?

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

Lead image via HBO

This post has been updated.

I haven't even seen season 3 of Bridgertonin all its friends-to-lovers, springtime, romantic glory, and I'm already thinking about Bridgerton season 4. I'm a sucker for any storyline about siblings, and while we're still waiting on official confirmation, it looks like season 4 of Bridgerton will follow Benedict and his love interest Sophie — who may have already been cast 👀. Here's everything you need to know about season 4 of the hit TV show. And check out everything you need to know about The Bridgerton World Tour!

Will there be season 4 of Bridgerton?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Yes, we're getting a Bridgerton season 4! After the popularity of the first season, Netflix renewed the series for another two seasons in 2021. I'm expecting the senior season of the Shondaland show to follow An Offer from a Gentleman, which revolves around second-eldest son Benedict. The novel has major Cinderella vibes, and follows servant Sophie, who falls in love with Benedict at a masquerade ball. Dreamy!

Bridgerton showrunner Jess Bronwell confirmed that the end of Bridgerton season 3 (which hits Netflix June 13) will have some major clues as to next season's couple. “I do think that there are some clues at the end of season 3 of where we’re headed,” she tells TV Insider. “So yeah, I leave that to fans to pick apart, but I think we’re tipping our hand just a little bit."

Who's in the Bridgerton season 4 cast?

Image via Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

We're sure to see Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton, as well as Luke Newton, Nicola Coughlan, Jonathan Bailey, Simone Ashley, Claudia Jessie, Hannah Dodd, Will Tilston, and Florence Hunt as the rest of the Bridgertons + their spouses.

As for the role of Sophie, rumor has it we might see Masali Baduza join the Netflix show. You might recognize the actress from movies like The Woman King and Slumber Party Massacre. "They never disappoint, casting geniuses," one Reddit user says. "If this is true, I love it!"

While the absolutely *radiant* Masali would do a wonderful job as Sophie, some fans of the series have hesitations over a Black woman playing the role of a servant — especially if the theory the show will place her in the white Cowper family is true. "As a Black woman, just no," another user says. "Sophie is the love interest who in my opinion is the most sh*tted on by her Bridgerton and the story of a white person trying to hide their association with a Black person is a little too real."

"It makes me uncomfortable too," another adds. "Actually the entire Benophie plot sounds awful if I’m honest but to then put it on a Black woman on top of that makes it even worse."

When is Bridgerton season 4 coming out?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Considering part one of Bridgerton season 3 is hitting Netflix May 16, 2024, we definitely won't see season 4 of Bridgerton for awhile. So far, there have been two years in between each season, so I'm expecting season 4 to start streaming in 2026.

How many episodes will season 4 of Bridgerton have?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Considering all three seasons of Bridgerton so far have eight episodes each, we can expect Netflix to keep up that pattern. Having the same number of episodes each season means the pace and arc for each Bridgerton sibling will be equal, making it a much more balanced watching experience!

Will Bridgerton have all 8 seasons?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Yes, Bridgerton will have all 8 seasons, one for each Bridgerton sibling — at least, that's the plan. "This being a family of eight children and there being eight books, I would love to be able to focus and really tell stories and love stories for all the Bridgerton siblings. For each character, for sure," showrunner Chris Van Dusen tells Collider.

After Bridgerton season 4, I'm most interested to see youngest sibling Hyacinth's love story play out! Seeing her arc throughout all eight seasons, especially mirrored with the way her brothers and sisters evolve over the course of the show, is going to be the perfect way to wrap this series up.

What are you looking forward to the most for Bridgerton season 4? Follow us on Facebook for more TV show news!

Lead image via Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

You may be bundled up in every sweater and coat you can get your hands on this season, but that doesn't mean your winter style can't be fun. IMO, this is the perfect time to go haywire with metallics by rocking all the best metallic styles you can stand. Plus, you'll want to wear something shiny to pair with your Valentine's Day outfit this year!

Whether you're you're rocking silver heels, or looking to start small with some silver jewelry, this trend is definitely one to get into. Here are 45 pieces of silver jewelry you can get right now!

Silver Necklaces

Anthropologie Sparkling Tennis Necklace

This sparkling tennis necklace proves that silver jewelry is far from basic.

Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace

All you need is a simple knit sweater and a pair of bootcut jeans to complement this silver pendant necklace.

Anthropologie Double Layer Herringbone Necklace

Herringbone necklaces are a classic staple that works with all holiday outfits.

Mejuri 5mm Curb Chain Necklace

This necklace from Mejuri is perfect for layering, but it's bold enough to make a statement on its own.

Dazzling Rock Collection 10mm Round White Freshwater Pearl & Diamond Infinity Pendant

The unique crossing design atop the pearl in this necklace pendant grants it a truly unmatched charm. It's intricate and simple all at the same time, allowing for easy pairing with any outfit or other pieces of silver jewelry.

Pendant Zodiaco Sagittarius

Show off your star sign with this sweet, simple zodiac necklace.

Brilliant Earth Zodiac Engravable Tag Pendant

Looking for something similar, but just different enough from the round zodiac pendant? Look no further than this adorable zodiac tag necklace.

Anthropologie Book Locket Necklace

Book lovers need thoughtful gifts they can appreciate — like this book locket necklace.

Gorjana Compass Coin Necklace

Let this Gorjana Compass Coin Necklace guide you to your best look yet.

Brilliant Earth Mountain Range Diamond Pendant

Love the great outdoors? Show off your natural passions in style with this pendant.

Silver Earrings

Baublebar Reagan Earrings

Take a break from crystal drop earrings and sport Baublebar's embellished version instead. Trust me — you'll love the effect statement silver jewelry has on your confidence.

Mejuri Pressed Flower Two-Tone Large Stud Earrings

Wearing silver doesn't mean you can't mix metals. These two-toned earrings let you play around with your accompanying accessories!

Brilliant Earth Moon Stud Earrings

Simple and chic, these moon studs go perfectly with any look.

Alexis Bittar Crumpled Silver Small Post Earrings

But, there's also power found in wearing small silver post earrings.

SHASHI Estelle Earrings

Just when you thought silver jewelry couldn't get bolder, these crystal drop earrings showed up on the scene.

Brilliant Earth Cultured Pearl Threader Earrings

Threader earrings give all the goodness of a drop earring with all the contemporary chicness.

Jenny Bird Florence Earrings

Hoop earrings are the easiest way to add an extra dose of 'oomph' to your OOTD. Besides, the polished silver will give your ears a bit of shine as you go to and from your intended destinations.

Gorjana Rose Huggies

Huggies are a great way to ease yourself into the world of hoop earrings.

Mejuri Charlotte Bold Huggies

If you want huggies that are a little more bold, well...it's literally in the name!

Baublebar Chiara Pavé Hoop Earrings

Go all out with these silver tone earrings. Featuring glass stones, they're the perfect accessory for that in-office holiday party you've been invited to.

Gorjana Tanner Hoops

Absolutely loving these hammered hoops for a little extra texture.

Sif Jakobs Earrings Elisse Lungo Cinque

Elevate your silver jewelry stash by buying this stunning pair of drop earrings. They're exude opulence and will be the star of any holiday party you attend.

Jenny Bird Aurora Ball Stud Earrings

Inspired by the idea of flying saucers? I totally get it.

Madewell Puffy Heart Statement Earrings

Throw these silver heart earrings on when you're running errands. They'll elevate your winter cozy style in less than 30 seconds.

Sif Jakobs Earrings Livigno

Not a hoops girl? These circular Sif Jakobs earrings can blend in or standout, depending on how they're styled, so you get a similar effect.

Mejuri Pyra Medium Hoops

These hoops from Mejuri are perfectly classic with a modern twist. Love!

MEJURI Puffy Charlotte Hoops

These mini sterling silver hoops may be on the smaller side, but they still make a bold statement.

Silver Rings

David Yurman Cable Collectibles Stack Ring

Stack your silver jewelry on your fingers starting with David Yurman's collectibles ring.

Local Eclectic Moonstone Decco Ring

If some guy said your aura's moonstone just 'cause he was high, then this is the ring for you! 😉

Dazzling Rock Collection 0.05 Carat Round White Diamond Flower Marquise Illusion Set Ring

Fall in love with this ring's unique diamond setting that can be worn for formal occasions and in your everyday. The floral-inspired design will adorn your finger with an alluring aura!

Tory Burch Miller Stud Ring

Tory Burch's brand has become synoynmous with effortless style that has a unique twist.

Gorjana Parker Link Ring

Loving the chain look? The Parker Link Ring can really tie it all together for you!

Gucci Sterling Silver Trademark Heart Ring

If this piece of sterling silver jewelry makes you sing, "Gucci this. Gucci that," I won't judge you.

Mejuri Wave Ring

Take your typical silver ring and give it a (literal) twist!

Mejuri Croissant Dome Ring

Croissants are always a good option — even if you can't exactly eat this one. 😗

BEN ONI Cody Cuban Link Ring

This gender-neutral ring works for anyone. It's sleek and constructed into a stackable ring that features Cuban links. There's nothing sexier than that.

Ippolita Classico Hammered Statement Dome Ring

Don't want anything flashy on your finger? Rock this hammered dome ring.

Monica Vinader Riva Diamond Hoop Ring

Monica Vinader has cracked the silver jewelry code by creating a design that's simple and elegant.

Mejuri Oval Gemstone Signet Ring

This ring speaks for itself — simplicity is stunning elegance.

Dazzlingrock 0.05 Carat Round Ring

This ring comes complete with a gorgeous floral design and set of diamonds that makes it the most ideal choice for occasions like Valentine's Day. It's expertly crafted and will pair well with the other silver jewelry you plan to wear.

Silver Bracelets

Kendra Scott Addison Stretch Bracelet

If you're not already thinking about it, pair this bracelet with Kendra Scott's Elisa pendant necklace!

Sif Jakobs Bracelet Ellisse

Let this silver-tone, chunky chain bracelet sit pretty on your wrist!

Local Eclectic Chunky Stainless Steel Curb Chain Bracelet

If you wanna go bolder than the Sif Jakobs bracelet, then this is a great choice to stand out.

Gorjana Parker Link Bracelet

Looking for a less chunky link bracelet? And one that can match your Parker Ring, too? We got you. 😇

Anthropologie Assorted Chain Bracelets

The girlies need options...it's me. I definitely need options, so I'm eyeing this silver assorted chain bracelet set.

MEJURI Puffy Charlotte Cuff Bracelet

Available in four sizes, MEJURI's silver cuff bracelet is has a memorable design that's easy to wear.

Silver Watches

BREDA Virgil Metal Watch

If it's time to replace your wristwatch, step your game up with this silver metal watch.

VANNA Claire Sandstone & Jade Watch

Having small wrists doesn't have to be a disadvantage. You can easily rock this dainty silver watch without worrying about it slipping down your wrist.

Versus Versace Colonne 45MM Two Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch

Why buy a regular watch when you can a two-tone one that doubles as a bracelet? It's a piece of silver jewelry that works smarter, not harder.

FOSSIL Stella Three-Hand Date Stainless Steel Watch

FOSSIL knows how to create lovely designs that stand the test of time — pun intended.

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

Lead image via Mejuri.

This post has been updated.

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.

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.