This Dark Floral Palette Is Taking Over Winter Wedding Season

Deciding on your color scheme is a big decision while planning a wedding. No matter how big or small the detail, though, there is no need to stress yourself out! Fun colors and flowers, after all, are supposed to make everyone smile. If you’re on the hunt for your own floral palette, the moody flowers below are a few shades darker than the pastels and neutrals so many brides are drawn to. Winter weddings are perfect for experimenting with these dark blues, rich purples and, of course, gorgeous reds. Floral arrangements finished with deeper colors like this will add just a touch of drama (the good kind!) and wow your guests. Scroll on for 14 breathtaking examples that prove going dark is probably the next big trend.

1. Floral Winter Wedding: The hero feature here is the dark red sprigs along the outer edge of this floral stunner. The color palette is unexpected but would fit in perfectly for any boho nuptials. (via Amy Breeze / Wedding Ideas)

2. Vintage 1920s Christmas Wedding: The beauty really is in the details. Small touches like this brass candlestick holder turned vase are what pull a wedding together and turn simple decorations into the reception you’ve been dreaming of. (via Simply Lace Photo / Elegant Wedding)

3. A Dark Bouquet: This bouquet is a little tighter, more neat and with less of the green we’ve been seeing a lot of lately. But it still showcases how fantastic a dark floral palette can be. Including a fun color, like the pop of orange, creates a great contrast. (via Ken Kienow / Style Me Pretty)

4. Inspiring Bouquet: The lighting of this photo helps to accentuate the sultry vibe the bouquet is already giving off. The reds, dark pinks and even the touch of white make for a very pretty bundle of fresh flowers. (photo via DSB Creative / I Take You)

5. Modern Boho Glam: More and more brides are going with a boho theme, which creates a perfect opportunity to do something out of the box like this. How gorgeous is this copper pitcher that doubles as a vase? (via Lauren Love / Wedding Chicks)

6. Deep and Luxurious: This bride took her dark color palette to the next level with black candles and dark glassware and plates. The horn doubling as a candlestick holder is also a super adorable touch for any music lover. (via Cat Meyer / Wedding Chicks)

7. Draping Greenery: The dark color in this bouquet isn’t meant to be the standout.. or is it? Either way, it still leaves a lasting impression. If you’re looking for a show-stopping bouquet, large flowers and draping greens are definitely the way to go. (via Alex Lasota / Ruffled)

8. Country Boho: There’s no denying that antlers have been trending in a major way for the last year or so. Pair ’em with some dark florals on your big day, and boom!Instant boho wedding style. (via Emma Nayler / Polka Dot Bride)

9. Variety of Textures: Just check out those show-stopping thistles! The violet color is beautiful and looks great surrounding the red roses. These days, it’s all about mixing and matching not only colors, but textures too. (via Caleb John Hill / Mon Cheri)

10. Figs, Garnets & Gold: The dark floral accent in this arch is b-e-a-utiful. It’s like the thread that’s pulling together this entire color scheme. Plus, the fact that it’s all on a flower arch is super on-trend. (photo via Eric Ronald / Chic Vintage Brides)

11. Winter Vintage Glam: This bride has gone above and beyond to tie together her dark color palette (and did an incredible job using flowers as decor). They’re in her bouquet, on the chairs and in centerpieces, and super creatively hung to create a grand garland feature wall. (via Dina Chmut / Strictly Weddings)

12. Floral Crown: This bride completely and 100 percent knocked it out of the park with her flower crown. It matches perfectly with her bouquet and the style of her dress. Ladies, take note of this one for your winter (or fall) wedding. (via Leo Farrell / Hello May)

13. Pine Needle and Red Floral: Here’s the perfect example of deep colors paired with a winter wedding. Not sure how to get the look? Substitute pine needles and little berries instead of the usual leafy greenery used in most summer weddings. (via Brooke Bakken / Elizabeth Anne Designs)

14. Naked Cake With Dark Floral: Your cake is the perfect place to sneak in some dark colors. Naked cakes can make a fabulous centerpiece as-is, but for an extra splash of glamour, we say the more flowers, the better. (via Holly Kringer / Junebug Weddings)

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Wedding season is back, and busier than ever. If you're feeling like you spend every other summer weekend in attendance, only to spend the few weekends in between recovering — and shopping — for your next event, you're certainly not alone.

While it's wonderful to watch our loved ones wed, we all know how quickly the celebrations can add up, and we're here to remind you there's absolutely no shame in repeating a wedding guest dress a few times, or all season long! In fact, you'll find floral dresses can go a long way, as their multi-colored prints allow them to be styled with different accessories for a new look each time.

If you're juggling several different wedding themes in one season, say, beach unions and backyard weddings, try to invest in one good floral print that can adapt across locales, or scoop up a few extra-affordable picks and assign one to each setting!

Ahead, our favorite floral wedding guest dresses to help you get through the wedding season and all your formal festivities this summer.

Free People Alma Midi Dress

This subtle light pink midi is adorned with feminine florals and delicate ruffles that feel like spring and summer's BFF. The asymmetrical hem lends this dress a whimsical vibe, which will earn you compliments all season long. Pair with some cute heels and your go-to bag to complete the look! 

Available in sizes XS-XL for $168.​

Hutch Braylan One-Shoulder Maxi Dress

This maxi may have just one shoulder strap, but we promise it's secure as ever. Hugging your form in the most flattering way, the bust on this piece is elastic and very flexible, so it moves when you do. The lush green floral details pay homage to the seasons best blooms.

Available in sizes XXS-L for $319.

AFRM Shea Floral A-Line Maxi Dress

This illustrative maxi is the moment! Adorned with everything from flowers to butterflies, this wedding guest dress is for the young at heart. The shape is simple and flowy, starting out with a straight neckline and falling to an a-line skirt. It's also lined for added comfort!

Available in sizes XS-XL for $88.

Bardot Felicia Mesh Floral Midi Dress

For a more form-fitting floral option, this pink + red number will do the trick. It's quite stretchy, so you can sit, stand, and dance in total comfort. The ruching running along the sides gives your shape even more flattering definition for all the pics you'll be taking during the wedding.

Available in sizes 2-12 for $119.

Shona Joy Karla Paneled Maxi Dress

This paneled dress falls all the way to the floor in an elegant manner. It's covered in royal blue, white, and rustic brown florals for a very graphic feel. While the skirt is more flowy, the bust on this dress fits snugly, like a corset. It comes complete with a matching belt to make the 'fit more formal!

Available in sizes 2-12 for $420.

Abercrombie & Fitch Ruffle Strap High-Low Maxi Dress

We are in love with this ruffle-y wedding guest dress! Part of Abercrombie & Fitch's new wedding collection, this high-low silhouette is dotted with classic pink florals. The ruching follows the bodice as well as the straps to create a chic shape. The breezy printed chiffon material is lined on the inside with a solid polyester for total coverage.

Available in petite, regular, and tall sizes XXS-XXL for $130.

Steve Madden Adalina Floral Ruffle Maxi Dress

On the delicate side, we can't stop gawking over this femme chiffon frock. It's an off-white, more cream-colored fabric for staying cool in the spring + summer sun. The bold ruffles that cross in the front make sure your look doesn't go unnoticed. While most floral wedding guest dresses are covered in the blooms, this one is more subdued.

Available in sizes XS-XL for $99.

Conditions Apply Chloe Strapless Maxi Dress

We actually adoreblack wedding guest dresses, and this one is still floral! You can make it strapless or opt for the included straps to feel more secure. The big graphic blooms will photograph beautifully, too. Only plan on wearing it to a wedding once? This dress doubles amazingly for any beachy vacations you've got on the cal!

Available in sizes XXS-XL and plus sizes 1X-3X for $148.

Petal & Pup Senorita Floral Print Sleeveless Maxi Dress

With a high neck and a high-cut leg slit, this maxi dress is def ready for the wedding after party! The side cutouts transition to an adorable open back design that feels sexy ​and ​breathable. This pick secures in the back with a no-fuss string tie and just looks sooo fun!

Available in sizes 4-10 for $84.​

The A&F Camille Midi Dress

Made of smooth satin-y fabric, this midi follows your figure with some flattering seams that run down the whole dress. The upper part is definitely more fitted, but allows for some movement with an elastic backing. The thin spaghetti straps are totally adjustable, too, so you can find the fit that suits you!

Available in sizes XXS-XXL.

ASTR The Label Floral Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

This floral wedding guest dress is for the color lovers. It's smattered in flowers and leaves of all kinds that work wardrobe magic whenever you wear it! The puffed sleeves definitely speak to the romantic vibe of any wedding you're attending, and the neckline comes together beautifully with a fun front tie. This pick is finished off with a high-cut leg slit for added breeziness!

Available in sizes XS-XL for $99.

A New Day Women's Crepe Midi Slip Dress

This easy-to-wear slip dress is totally comfy! Crafted out of a lightweight crepe fabric, you can feel confident at any temperature. The v-neck and leg slit create a flattering balance in the silhouette, plus the pink floral pattern is the season's ultimate match! Adjust the straps with traditional closures to find your perfect fit.

Available in sizes XS-4X for $25.

Montce Petal Floral Maxi Dress

The bustier-like top on this floral maxi is everything to us! The ruched bra cups will draw attention to your ensemble and make you feel super fly. This dress secures in the back with a hook closure, and flaunts an open back for some light flirty vibes.

Available in sizes XS-XL for $218.

Motel Vilnia Floral Midi Dress

This versatile pick goes the less-traditional route in the way of florals. Its flower motifs are dotted separately all across the fabric, and match the neckline's velvet lining perfectly! We like that this dress is limited in its color palette to make matching with shoes and outerwear easy as can be. The bow in front of the chest seals the deal!

Available in sizes XS-XXL for $85.

Which floral wedding guest dress are you excited to rock this year? Follow us on Pinterest for more outfit inspiration!

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 from a previous version with reporting by Meredith Holser.

What you eat can greatly affect your skin, causing different side effects, both good and bad. Luckily, there are so many foods that can revitalize your skin and get it back to feeling radiant and looking glowy from the inside out — and just in time for summer! If you don't know where to start, we've got you covered with expert advice on all the best foods for your skin, plus all those bites you might wanna avoid.

Best Foods For Your Skin

Photo by Olena Bohovyk/Unsplash

Grapes, Strawberries, Blood Oranges, and Watermelon

Elina Fedotova of Elina Organics, says that colorful fruit are key to achieving good skin! She says, "Colorful fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, and healthy fats like butter or plant oils help improve skin immunity and protect against environmental UV damage. Liquid collagen is popular as a skin-rejuvenating food or supplement, but when you do that, make sure you are making the smoothie with collagen peptides. The collagen is broken into small pieces called peptides which absorb much better and signal your body to regenerate collagen." So clearly, collagen is vital if you want to have glowy skin.

Elina also says, "It is a scientifically proven fact that people who eat very high levels of antioxidant-rich diets with fruits and vegetables and anthocyanosides — they can stay in the sun without any protection much longer because their body can protect them naturally from UV damage." Her three rules for healthy skin?

  1. No processed foods.
  2. Eat tons of antioxidants.
  3. Use an SPF — preferably one that is a mineral Zinc Oxide based — alongside protective hats in the sun.

So not only can certain foods make your skin look radiant, they can also protecting you from the sun with proper precautions! We love to hear that!

Photo by Dose Juice/Unsplash

Leafy Greens, Broccoli, Asparagus, and Edamame

Leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, and edamame are some of our favorite foods to eat that will give you that inside-out glow. Nutritionist and wellness expert Jessica Green says, "Silica rich foods are a great place to start — these include celery, asparagus, banana, cucumber, green beans to name my favorite. When you juice some of these, they can become more bio-available. Celery juice for instance is excellent at giving your skin a beautiful natural glow. Collagen rich foods can help improve skin elasticity — bone broth is my absolute favorite for not only its skin benefit but bone broth is also very calming for the gut."

Skin elasticity can easily be improved through these foods and can make you look 10 years younger! I definitely notice a significant difference in my skin when I regularly eat collagen-rich foods than when I don't!

Photo by Thought Catalog/Unsplash

Avocado and Olive Oil

Avocados and olive oil are really going to up your skin game, and giving you that gorgeous glow for summer we're really looking for. Kristen White, RDN, CLT, says, "Clean fats like olive oil, avocados, coconut oil, and tallow in our diet help replenish needed vitamins and fatty acids to help skin look its vibrant best." That's exactly what we want!

In regards to olive oil, it really is the must-have when it comes to achieving a glowy complexion. Jenny Jiles, a holistic nutritionist says, "Olive oil is the GOAT. We know why all of those women in the Mediterranean look so vibrant and sexy as they age, because olive oil is such a staple in their diet. Don’t be afraid of this healthy fat, it’s filled with antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids which help protect your skin from free radicals to reduce those fine lines and help you glow from the inside out. Add olive oil to any and all of your meals, savory or sweet (yes, trust me on that)." So I guess the key to looking like an Italian goddess this summer (and always) is olive oil!

Photo by Maddi Bazzocco/Unsplash

Chia, Flax Seeds, and Sunflower Seeds

Many seeds and grains are going to be crucial in giving you radiant skin. Plus, they have so many healing properties that can help reduce redness and inflammation in the skin. Christine Glaser, CEO of DIY Skincare Business, says, "Chia and flax seeds are also helpful for all skin types and can aid in toxin removal." And sunflower seeds actually have antibacterial properties too that help get rid of toxins in order to keep your skin looking fresh and clear; thus the radiant skin we're trying to achieve here!

Photo by María Sainz Cabezalí/Unsplash

Red Bell Peppers, Carrot, and Tomatoes

You always want to have a variety of colors when eating fruits and vegetables because this will help you get the most out of your diet and achieve maximum radiance. A health expert and dietician, Chrissy Arsenault of Kori, says, "Eat lots of fruits and veggies. Choose 2-3 colors of fruits and veggies at every meal – fruits and veggies are rich in antioxidants (vitamins A, C, E) that protect your skin from damage." And tomatoes, carrots, and bell peppers are very rich in color so they will give you so many great nutritional benefits that will assist in giving you a perfect inside-out glow!

What foods should I avoid for my skin?

Photo by MART PRODUCTION/PEXELS

If you want radiant, clear, acne-free skin then you definitely want to avoid foods high in dairy or sugar. Jessica Green says, "When it comes to foods to avoid for radiant skin, sugar and dairy float to the top. Both are inflammatory. Sugar causes glycation which damages the skin's elasticity. Dairy (cow dairy specifically) tends to be one of the most common foods that cause reactions for people including acne and puffiness." I'm definitely taking note to try and cut our these foods now!

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Lead image via Pexels/Sora Shimazaki

Warmer weather calls for lighter, shorter, and comfier outfits. It's a feat to find a dress that hits all three of these marks, especially if you're attending a spring or summer wedding ceremony. As the temperatures rise, make sure you're well-prepared with an appropriate wedding guest dress style! We've got you covered with the short wedding guest dresses below, which go above and beyond to make you feel both comfortable and confident!

Free People Perfect Day Printed Dress

This short wedding guest dress leans casual with effortless puff sleeves and a swingy skirt, but it meets elegance worthy of wearing to a wedding ceremony from the open back detail. The bodice of this v-neck silhouette is thoughtfully ruched for a change in texture. All things considered, this is a super comfy style!

This $128 dress is top-rated Free People and comes in 4 other floral colorways including blue, cream, black, and multicolor. This brown + pink number is currently shoppable in sizes XS-XL.

City Chic Blakely Tie Neck Long Sleeve Minidress

The flounce-y, fluttery trim on this mini is sooo adorable, and perfect for a springtime wedding! The long sleeves are wispy and breathable, while the rest of the dress is lightly lined for added coverage. The elastic waistband is snug but not uncomfortable, plus this little number ties neatly up top with a chic neck tie that you can style a number of different ways.

This $99 plus-sized pick is available in this stunning blue-purple shade and sizes 14-24.

The A&F Giselle Pleated Mini Dress

This pleated number from Abercrombie & Fitch's brand-new wedding collection is serving a main character moment. The green color makes it one of the freshest short wedding guest dresses for springtime. The v-neck sihlouette is super flattering, yet secure for all of the day's moments.

You can also snag this dress in a cool blue hue and standard, petite, and tall sizes XXS-XL for $77 (on sale, was $110).

Farm Rio Black Colored Stripes Short Sleeve Mini Dress

Black wedding guest dresses are everything to us, TBH. This 100% linen one gets a colorful treatment around the trim lining the hem, the sleeves, and neckline to make your look stand out – it'll also photograph beautifully! This versatile piece will serve you past those spring ceremonies, too. The piece secures in the back with a discreet, durable zipper.

This $250 dress from Farm Rio is sustainably crafted, made with 50% of recycled materials. It's currently available in sizes XXS-L.

Zesica Satin Halter Neck Tie Waist Mini Dress

The elegant wrapped neckline on this satin dress not only provides you with some coverage up top, but it makes a style statement worth documenting. The wrap skirt is extra classy, boasting a bow tie that secures in front. This dress zips up and buttons in the back.

This $50 Amazon dress comes in 15 other colors, so you can shop for the shade that matches your next occasion the most. The fabric is 95% polyester and 5% spandex.

Old Navy Waist-Defined Shine Mini Dress

Pretty as a flower! This long-sleeved mini dress from Old Navy features some beautiful blooms that'll surely feel celebratory of the spring and summer seasons. It's a step-in fit, with elastic banding spanning across the waist and arm cuffs for more comfort. The body and skirt of this short wedding guest dress is lined well, and the outer layer has some shiny seams woven in for eye-catching factor!

Shop this dress on sale for just $16! This colorway is available in regular sizes XS-XXL and 4X, tall sizes XS and L, and petite sizes XS, S, XL, and XXL.

Saylor Joelene Dress

For a more fitted look, this ruched dress from Saylor is super flattering! The puffed sleeves and flutter detail on the bottom of the skirt will transform your shape and look undoubtedly elegant for attending a wedding. The colorful floral pattern that covers the entire piece is springtime's perfect pairing, so you can really wear it all season long.

This pick is made from 100% cotton and doesn't have any stretch to it. You can snag it for $264 in sizes XS-L now!

Abercrombie & Fitch Organza Tiered Strapless Mini Dress

Floral prints are sooo darling for spring and summer ceremonies, and this strapless frock keeps things flowy, no matter the season. The three-tiered design is lined underneath for added coverage.

You can shop this $90 dress in solid white, hot pink, or a light pink floral pattern in sizes XXS-XXL now.

BHLDN Leila Stretch Satin Deep-V Mini Dress

This simple mini exhibits a stunning plunging v-neck that points down to a beautifully ruched bustier, flattering the upper half of your bod easily. The bodice is fitted with a small elastic band that moves with you! If this hot pink color breaks the dress code, you can buy it in black or dark green.

This semi-stretchy number is $168 at Anthropologie and is sold in sizes XS-XL.

Free People For The Moment Mini

Everything about this low-key dress is wonderful for a wedding – the abundant (but still chic) coverage, the whimsical a-line skirt, and stylish puff sleeves. All of the details are made from 100% cotton, too, so you won't overheat in the spring + summer heat. The neckline follows a v-shape that'll match well with any hairstyle you go with, up or down.

This breezy $88 number also comes in 8 other colors to suit your next spring/summer wedding. This deep yellow hue is now available in sizes XS-L.

Maeve The Brynne 3-D Spaghetti-Strap Dress

She's an icon. She's a legend. And she is the moment! This short wedding guest dress makes a statement with bold floral graphics that wrap around the front and back. The embroidered sequins that make up the "petals" provide added texture and color that's easy to pull together with a pair of heels or cardigan. This sky blue-lavender dress secures in the back with a sizable zipper.

This $230 dress is perfect for wearing to weddings, spring parties, and picnics. Grab it in sizes 0-16 now!

All in Favor Square Neck Long Sleeve Textured Satin Minidress

This romantic mini dress has tiered elastic bands that accentuate your upper half beautifully. The stretchy sleeves can sit atop your shoulders, or hang down for a cold shoulder look! The stylish square neckline comes complete with an adorable tie in the front.

Available in this peachy champagne color, you'll fall in love with this number for every spring and summer happening. It's currently 40% off, costing just $35 instead of $59. It's sold in sizes S, M, and L.

Zesica Backless Tie Waist Silky Mini Dress

This easy-fitting mini dress is one of our fave short wedding guest dresses because it's comfy and totally cool girl-approved. The smooth, silky fabric (that claims is "not easy to wrinkle") makes every wear zero-fuss and the tie-back detail is undeniably on-trend. More than anything, this flirty frock is versatile, easily dressing up with heels and a sweater or flaunting a more casual look with sneakers and a denim jacket. It's up to you!

This $48 Amazon dress comes in 10 other colors so customizing your 'fit is fairly straightforward. It comes in sizes S-XL.

The A&F Giselle Pleated Mini Dress

This might just be one of the most perfect short wedding guest dresses we've even laid eyes on. Those pleats though! The upper is more form-fitting, flattering your figure with ease. The v-neck feels sultry, but it isn't overly revealing. This dress' straps are adjustable, and the piece zips up in the lower back for security. This lined mini is made from a 100% polyester blend that feels silky to the touch.

You can also get this $77 dress (was $110) in a gorgeous green color. It's sold in sizes XXS-XL and lengths varying from petite to tall now!

Gap Linen-Cotton Puff Sleeve Mini Shirtdress

This short wedding guest dress is classy AF! We adore the longline puff sleeves and button-up design. The tie-around waist definitely gives your figure some definition, too! The skirt hits just above the knee if you're shopping for something more modest. The linen-cotton material ensures easy, breezy comfort in each wear. This dress is unlined, so you might need a slip to wear underneath.

This peachy pick sells for $70 with Gap and also comes in 5 other colors! This springy color is now available in regular sizes XXS-XXL, tall sizes S-XXL, and petite sizes XS-L.

Ann Taylor Polka Dot Flounce Shift Dress

The robin's egg blue color of this polka-dotted shift dress was ​made​ for spring! The crew neck is perfectly appropriate for family-filled occasions (like weddings), plus the skirt falls above the knee for more coverage. The body of this number is lined, whereas the sleeves aren't – this difference really adds to the playful look! The sleeves fall to a wide, retro-inspired fit, and the midsection is fitted with a skinny, stylish tie belt. 

​This Ann Taylor dress is on sale right now for $104 (was $149) and is available in regular sizes 00-18 and petite sizes 00-16.

Free People Marina Mini

This dress is a great fit for any sort of event, but it'll be super cute for spring + summer weddings! This mini is business in the front and a total party in the back – the back half features a unique strappy back that ties into a bow! And though pleated, this look feels as effortless and breezy as can be.

The Marina Mini from Free People also comes in 15 other colorways to suit your personal style. It sells for $88 in sizes XS-XL1

Old Navy Fit & Flare Linen-Blend Mini Dress

Balanced between a snug fit and a flowy flare, this short wedding guest dress from Old Navy prioritizes comfort over anything. The scooped neckline is fairly basic, so it'll suit any body type. The straps adjust to the length of your liking without being too intrusive. Easily pair this pick with heels and a light cardigan, and you're good to go!

On sale for $20 (was $35), this piece is a must-have for seasonal weddings and beyond. Its size range is impeccable, available in sizes XS-4X.

Maeve The Cecily Fit & Flare Sweetheart Mini Dress

This mint green mini lives rent-free in our heads. The sweetheart neckline is definitely more sophisticated for fancier weddings, and the cap sleeves are wonderfully femme in lieu of springtime. Additionally, this linen-cotton blend piece flaunts thoughtfully details from the front buttons to the vertical seam work!

This $158 mini from Maeve is shoppable in sizes XXS-XL now.

Madewell Square Neck Linen Minidress

For going somewhere more casual, this Madewell mini dress fits like your fave t-shirt. With a stretchy elastic band that secures the bust, you'll feel super comfy. Plus, the square neckline provides some delightful coverage if you're looking for it! The softness of the linen is truly unmatched and the light blue hue is great for warmer weather.

This $110 dress will last you year after year for any occasion since it's easy to style formally or casually. It's shoppable in sizes 14-24!

Looking for more wedding style content? Scroll our Weddings section and sign up for our newsletter for the latest trends!

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

Lead image via Anthropologie.

This post has been updated.

If there are two things you can count on, it's that I'm always thinking about Gilmore Girls and I'm always listening to Taylor Swift. As soon as I pressed play on The Tortured Poets Department, I could tell this album would resonate with so many experiences I had a child and a teenager. I've always been imaginative (and, admittedly, a bit spacey), and to this day, I never leave home without a book.

I've built thousands of imaginary worlds and crafted endless stories, but have always had difficulty keeping up with real-world relationships. So, needless to say, when I listened to Taylor Swift's new album and heard "I Hate It Here" and "The Bolter," I felt seen. I also realized these two songs would speak to Rory Gilmore in the same way!

Rory Gilmore Would Love "I Hate It Here" By Taylor Swift...

Image via Warner Bros. TV

"I Hate It Here" totally showcases Taylor Swift's ability to express raw emotions, and it also perfectly captures Rory Gilmore's struggles during certain periods of her life. The lyrics reflect frustration and dissatisfaction we can all feel sometimes (I know I've definitely felt them), and while Rory and Taylor's dreams in and of themselves are different, they both want to leave their small towns to achieve them. Whether it's feeling overwhelmed by expectations or facing setbacks in her career in Gilmore Girls season 5, Rory has moments throughout the series where she feels a bit trapped.

But even more than the physical meaning of the song is the imaginary one. Taylor sings about creating worlds in her mind and diving into books to escape the mundane. Rory reads more than any fictional character I've ever seen before because she also craves that escapism! The lyrics of "I Hate It Here" resonate with Rory when she wants to live different lives, and it encapsulates the moments when she struggles or questions her decisions — relatable!

...And She'd Feel Attacked By "The Bolter" By Taylor Swift

Image via Warner Bros. TV

TBH, I'm half convinced "The Bolter" is referencing Amy March (after all, Amy has been "reviled" by readers for hundreds of years, and she "almost drowned...in frigid water" like Taylor sings), which is just another literary reference Rory would pick up on.

In "The Bolter," Taylor Swift captures the essence of a woman constantly seeking adventure and change, just like Rory Gilmore, and it's all about the idea of a restless spirit. While the lyrics can be taken from a hypothetical standpoint (feeling trapped by relationships or other people's expectations), we can also talk about it literally considering Rory physically runs away from Jess.

Rory might desire love, but the idea of it also scares her — two facts that don't cancel each other out! Just like Taylor Swift, I think Rory's thrilled by the idea of escape simply because she's so risk averse in other areas of her life. Once again, I say, relatable!!

"The Bolter" and "I Hate It Here" are both incredibly engaging songs because they highlight just how complex we are as humans — both in the ways we relate to ourselves and other people. And they're just two Taylor Swift songs Rory would definitely add to her playlist.

Which Taylor Swift and Rory Gilmore parallels do you see? Follow us on Facebook for more pop culture musings!

Lead image via Warner Bros. TV

Bathroom decor is having a moment, becoming more than just a place to wipe and wash. Instead, they're turning into what some are calling spathrooms with big bathtubs, open showers, saunas, and spa-like amenities, according to 2024 design trend report by Cosentino. One trend putting the "room" in bathroom is the bathroom library, which fits right into the vintage, grandmillennial and cottagecore trends, with built-in shelves above vanities, around commodes, and front and center to warm up a bathroom vibe. Here's the skinny on these neat nooks and how you can make one yourself!

Design: De Rosee Salon | Photo: Astrid Templier

But some of us at here aren't so sure. What do you think? For me, I'm a bath lover and reader, so the combo is definitely appealing. However, I definitely would worry about moisture ruining my precious novels, or guests lingering in the bathroom too long, wrapped up in a good book. But those cons aside, I dig the idea of a book nook in my bathroom, especially for my kiddo who loves when I read to her in the bath, and is even now a voracious reader herself.

Photo by Levi T./Unsplash

If you're into the idea and want to start with a small library vs. splurging on some fancy built-ins, then here are some shelving ideas that are perfect for books in a bathroom.

Shop Book Nook Bathroom Decor Ideas Here!

Mason Curio Cabinet

Display your favorite books, trinkets and towels in this arc-shaped cabinet with glass door and five adjustable shelves.

Mayfair Wall Cabinet

This bathroom-rated cabinet is perfect for hiding literary treasures. Love the green stain inside!

Camylle Bookcase

Add a pop of pink to your paperbacks with this mid-century piece, perfect for larger baths.

PB Haven Arched Bookcase

Create a little book caddy with this arched bookcase made of mango wood.

IKEA Billy Bookcase

This is IKEA's best-selling cabinet and for good reason: glass doors keep your book collection dust-free but still visible and the sleek design is space-saving.

Ederra Accent Shelf

Hang this shelf vertically or horizontally and showcase your best reads to reflect your good taste in books and design.

Crate And Barrel White Oak Reversible Shelf Set

Make the most of your bathroom wall space with this modular piece that allows you to attach three shelves to a mounted panel — one flat and two reversibles that can be hung on top or underneath to give you lots of storage options.

Hefling Metal Wall Bathroom Cabinet

This vintage-inspired cabinet would look charming above a sink instead of a mirror.

Ajax Narrow Ladder Bookcase

Save space with this vertical stainless steel bookcase available in several eye-catching colors. Once filled, the floating shelves vanish, keeping your tower of literature clean and organized.

Etsy The Curious Shelf

Have fun with your library with these whimsical shelves available in mustard, sage, white, lilac and pink.

Babyletto Spruce Tree Bookcase

Encourage future bibliophiles with a little bathroom library of their favorite books. Each shelf on this pine wood tree holds 12 to15 books.

Oscar Bee Scalloped Shelves (set of 2)

Love the scallop design here. Mount a set of these near your bathtub so a great read is always within reach.

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Main Photo by Vlada Karpovich