Create a Basket Backpack for Your Little One This Easter

Every year, I see stores filled with pre-made baskets wrapped in cellophane, and I’m here to say that those need to stop. It is so easy to create your own Easter basket and it’s such a fun project to DIY with the kiddos. They can add creative touches to personalize their own, which will make finding Easter eggs that much more special. Follow along with the tutorial below to learn how to put a new spin on the traditional Easter basket — an Easter basket backpack!

Materials and Tools:

Instructions:

  1. Hem your 10 x 10-inch square’s edges with hot glue. Add a four-inch strap in the center. Glue on the belt buckle.
  2. Hot glue the fabric flap on the back of your basket.
  3. Cut a strap that measures three inches and insert a grommet at the top edge. Sew strap onto the basket.
  4. Cut two 10-inch straps and two 14-inch straps. Hot glue them to the top of the basket. Add a buckle to the end of each strap.
  5. Add three grommets to each 10-inch strap. Sew onto the bottom of the bag and then link the straps together.

Some of my favorite projects are the ones where I get to hem using hot glue :) Glue a four-inch strap to the center of the flap.

Attach buckle to the end of the strap. Squeeze tight.

Hot glue the fabric flap on the back of the bag.

Cut a three-inch strip and attach a grommet to the top edge. Sew strap onto the basket.

Cut two 14-inch straps and two 10-inch straps. Attach the 14-inch strap to the top of the basket and hot glue the belt buckle to the bottom.

Apply three grommets to the end of your 10-inch strap. This will allow variety to the strap length on your backpack.

Sew the strap to the bottom of the bag using a needle and thread.

Buckle the strap together and then create a loop to hold the tail of the strap in place.

Easter time! Let’s go find those eggs!

Our CFO, Nicole, brought in her kids to help us model this Easter basket backpack. Silas was ready to take on the job.

Silas’s younger sister Petra is 15 months, so he was collecting eggs for two.

An egg hunt isn’t an egg hunt without your special buddy. Throw in your favorite stuffed animal before you get hunting.

Show us your Easter projects by tagging us on Instagram + using hashtag #iamcreative, and be sure to check out our Pinterest for more holiday DIY inspo!

DIY Production and Styling: Kelly Bryden
Photography: Chris Andre

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

When you factor in all of the egg hunting, Easter brunching, and a few photo ops with the Easter bunny, the time allotted for brainstorming egg decorating ideas slips away fast. No worries though — we've got you covered! Whether you're going all out with an intricate design or just need something to quickly DIY day-of, this eggy inspo has a little something for everyone. Before you start stocking those Easter baskets, grab a few Peeps and check out this list for the most egg-cellent ideas to DIY this year.

Full House Easter Egg

Proudly display your love for this '90s favorite with these nostalgia-packed wonders. Grab a waterproof pen and some painter's tape to help you color inside the lines. (via Brit + Co)

Pointillism Easter Egg

Turn those blank Easter canvases into mini masterpieces with this easy DIY that requires just stickers and markers to add dots to your masterpiece. (via Brit + Co)

Paper Dot Garland Egg

If you're really short on time after the Easter brunch is prepped, grab some premade garland or embroidery floss and wrap up your eggs for the big finish. This DIY takes seconds to throw together, so you can get back to planning that Easter brunch. (via Brit + Co)

Floral Easter Egg

There's no better nod to those spring blooms than showing your eggs a little botanical love. Decorate them with your #squad's favorite flowers for a customized Easter basket. (via Brit + Co)

Calligraphy Egg

These calligraphy eggs add the sweetest personalized touch to those Easter gift baskets, and they'd also make some A+ place cards at your Easter brunch. (via Brit + Co)

Sharpie Tie-Dye Egg

Put that Sharpie collection to good use and get in on the tie-dye trend. Just don't forget: They're too pretty (and toxic) to eat! (via Brit + Co)

Tat Egg

This DIY is about as easy as it gets. And it further proves our point: You should always have gold temporary tattoos on hand. (via Brit + Co)

Egg Centerpiece

Save those eggshells from your brunch recipes and put them to good use for your centerpiece. Throw in fresh spring florals and set them into a carton for an Easter garden your guests will love. (via Brit + Co)

Golden Speckled Egg

These metallic wonders belong on the Easter mantle. Use a paintbrush to dab gold paint on the shell for a natural (but glam) look. (via Craftberry Bush)

Fruit + Veggies Eggs

Remind everyone that fruits and veggies are still part of a balanced diet, even with all of those Easter sweets around. (via Brit + Co)

Crescent Moon Egg

Add a mystic edge to your collection this year and throw some crescent moons in the mix. For some edible goodness, opt for natural dye. (via Paper & Stitch)

Swan + Flamingo Pool Float Egg

If your Easter grass is a traditional shade of green, you just can't go wrong with flamingos and swans. These birds will bring the Easter LOLs and make that egg hunt a lot more interesting. (via Brit + Co)

Typography Egg

Graphic designers and hardcore IGers will love this egg DIY. Have your hashtags at the ready to get those "likes" rolling in. (via Lovely Indeed)

Painterly Egg

Sometimes a subtle pattern is all you need. Skip the dip dyes and go with something hand painted instead. These are sure to stand out from the rest. (via Paper N Stich)

Pop Star Egg

Because there's no better way to pay Easter tribute to your favorite celeb than with their own eggy likeness. Have an Easter get-together with your squad and make it a contest for whose egg gets the most votes. Winner takes home a basket of Cadbury eggs and Peeps! (via Brit + Co)

Hipster Egg

These 'stached little dudes are guaranteed to crack a smile or two at the Easter bash. Study up on your knowledge of mustaches, label the bottoms of your eggs, and turn it into a guessing game with your guests. (via Brit + Co)

Naturally Dyed Egg

Give your craft drawer a little time off for this holiday and step outside to find inspo and materials that are au naturale. One of these at each place setting will offer a warm welcome to your guests. (via Brit + Co)

Bouffant Egg

These sassy little eggs are sporting some serious volume. Talk about an A+ basket choice for the hair goddess in your life. (via Studio DIY)

Mosaic Egg

Peeling off a cute design is like unwrapping an adorable holiday gift — it's just so sad! Luckily, these non-toxic mosaic eggs look best right when you're about to chow down. (via Brit + Co)

Cactus Egg

No need to worry about cactus prickers with these adorable little dudes. Personalize each "plant" with a color-coordinated bloom for a desert-chic Easter presentation. (via Brit + Co)

Emoji Eggs

Express your virtual feelings with cute emoji faces! (via Studio DIY)

Burger Easter Egg

The perf answer to brown eggs — no dye needed! (via Studio DIY)

Chalkboard Eggs

We're big fans of chalkboard everything, and Easter eggs are no exception. (via Oleander + Palm)

Photo Print Eggs

We can't decide if these are totally awesome or totally weird. Scratch that: These eggheads are exactly right. (via A Subtle Revelry)

Easter Egg Sticker Art

Great for kids and adults and alike, just download your *adorbs* printable stickers and get to creatin' Easter art! (via Hello, Wonderful)

Alphabet Eggs

Send all your kids Easter messages with the cutest of DIY alphabet eggs. (via Lovely Indeed)

Paint Pen Patterned Eggs

Spray paint and paint pens make for a perfect pairing when it comes to simple and quick egg design. (via Lovely Indeed)

Celebrity Eggs

The secret here is tattoo paper — then you can choose all the stars and phrases. (via Studio DIY)

Easter Egg Tree

Your naturally dyed eggs will look right at home nestled in the branches of this graceful arrangement. (via The House That Lars Built)

Nail Polish Marbleized Eggs

This colorful egg design will come out unique every time! Plus it'll take you less than ten minutes. Just keep in mind that your fingers will get a bit messy. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Stamped Eggs

Simplicity and beauty go hand in hand. And if you don't have the exact shapes you want, make your own potato stamps! (via Squirrelly Minds)

Spring Egg Easter Display

All you'll need is a little paint and some crafting wire to make these spring-y (get it? get it?) creations. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Flower Crown Eggs

Yass queen! Even your seasonal decor can rock a floral headpiece. (via Brit + Co)

Punniest Egg Centerpiece

You can never go wrong with a pun, especially one this egg-cellent. (See what we did there?) (via Brit + Co)

Unicorn Easter Eggs

Unicorns. So hot right now. (via Brit + Co)

Baby Chick Easter Eggs

These cute chickies will be crowd faves with the kids as well as the adults. (via Tell Love and Party)

Piñata Surprise Easter Eggs

Marry your love of all things fringed with your love of chocolate eggs. It doesn't get any better! (via Lovely Indeed)

Pantone Easter Eggs

The inner graphic designer in you is already in love with this idea. Now it's time to bring it to life. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

DIY Terrazzo Easter Eggs

This pattern popped up just about everywhere last year, and it's going strong now. And for good reason: It's a bright and colorful feast for the eyes. (via Club Crafted)

Nautical Themed Eggs

Put a seaside theme on your seasonal decor and it will fit right in with your Lilly Pulitzer vibe. (via Martiza Lisa)

Gradient Easter Eggs

For when you can't decide on just one color palette. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

Leather Ribbon Eggs

You can reuse the leather year after year — no one will know that the eggs were purchased at the last minute. (via Monsters Circus)

Modern Gold Painted Easter Eggs

Matisse himself would be proud of this gilded display of spring color. (via Lovely Indeed)

Follow us on Pinterest for more DIY ideas!

(Additional reporting by Anjelika Temple, Allison Wheeler, and Lindsey Graham-Jones)

This post has been updated.

I'll admit out of the many teen dramas I've consumed, Outer Banks is one of the most ridiculous. But the insanity surrounding the plot is half the reason it's enjoyable! John B. wrestling an alligator with his bare hands? Kiara getting kidnapped then making a daring escape in her PJ's? John B. and Sarah getting married (kind of) by the power of "the sky, the stars, and the sea" after escaping the SBI?

Considering my favorite fan theory for the future is that Madelyn Cline's Sarah and Rudy Pankow's JJ learn they're secret siblings, I know the crazy train isn't slowing down anytime soon. I took to Reddit to find the wildest Outer Bankshot takes and I was not disappointed. Keep reading to see if you agree with any!

JJ and Kiara Never Should Have Happened

Image via Netflix

While JJ and Kiara is one of the most popular ships on the show, a lot of Outer Banks fans think the "no Pogue-on-Pogue macking" rule from the pilot should have stayed in effect. The individual romances between Kiara and JJ, John B., and Pope make the story really messy, and the fact the show writes Kiara to be with all three of them in the span of three years gives a lot of viewers the ick.

I'll be team #Jiara forever (and literally screamed when The Backseat Lovers' "Kilby Girl" started playing during the motorcycle ride in season 3), but I'll say it would incredibly compelling to see a friend group take care of each other as much as the Pogues do without ever crossing over into romantic territory. That's found family, after all!

Pope Should Have Ditched The Treasure Hunt

Image via Netflix

One Reddit user is convinced that "Pope should’ve focused on his future in school instead of giving everything up to search for treasure." And TBH, I totally agree.

In season 1, Pope has a breakthrough about the hidden treasure in the middle of his scholarship interview. He ditches the scholarship committee to tell the rest of the Pogues, throwing away a crazy educational opportunity. Pope beats himself up for it, and his parents definitely aren't pleased, but at least it meant he got to stay in the show instead of leaving for college, which leads me to...

Outer Banks Should Have Started With The Pogues In Their 20s

Image via Netflix

As one of the only people alive who loves the post-time jump One Tree Hill, I would have loved to see OBX start off with the characters in their 20s (although it looks like that's where Outer Banks season 4 will pick up!). This would eliminate SO MANY problems from the jump because the Pogues wouldn't have to worry about missing school, they'd be more self-sufficient, and instead of being the same old high school drama, it could have provided a commentary on figuring out life in your 20s the same way Friends did.

Rafe Shouldn't Have Any Kind Of Redemption Arc In Outer Banks Season 4

Image via Netflix

Drew Starkey the man that you are. According to one Reddit user, "Rafe should not have a love interest or a redemption arc" like we see in season 3. We spent all of season 1 and season 2 establishing that Rafe (played by Drew) would do anything it took to get what he wanted (including one successful murder and two other attempts?!). He shows next to no remorse for his actions, and exploring his literal psychopathic tendencies would take the show to a whole new level.

Big John Should Never Have Returned

Image via Netflix

John B.'s dad's disappearance is the catalyst for the Pogues' journey at the beginning of Outer Banks, and Big John's return means the story feels somewhat repetitive in the third season, and it undoes a lot of the growth we've seen from John B. Plus, Big John is just SO chaotic, selfish, and dramatic. If he had truly died in season 1, we could have seen John B. wrestle with that finality, and how to cope with loss in the face of finding the treasure and falling in love with Sarah.

And Finally, Outer Banks Should Have Ended After Season 1

Image via Netflix

Outer Banks season 1 was exactly what we needed at the height of the pandemic. It was escapist — both in terms of the beach vacation vibes, but also because the '00s aesthetic took us right back to simpler times — and it had such a wonderfully resolved finale that some fans think nothing has matched it.

Do you agree with any of these Outer Banks opinions? I'm such a romance fan, I don't know what I'd do if the show didn't have JJ and Kiara get together! Check out all the best New TV Shows coming this year for more.

Lead image via Netflix

Easter is an egg-citing time to show some love to those who make you the hoppiest. Obviously, the best way to do that iswith a stellar Easter basket, packed full of sweet treats and festive goodies. Gift one to your kiddo, your bestie, your SO, and even drop one off on your parent's porch. We've got the hottest lineup of Easter basket stuffer ideas for *every* bunny on your list.

Snacks, Drinks, and Sweet Treats To Fill Your Easter Baskets

Another egg-cellent part about Easter is all of the fine dining. Between your Easter feasts, you need something to snack on. These are some of the best snacks, drinks, and desserts to fill this year's Easter baskets with – even your own!

Chocolove Dark Chocolate Salted Caramel Filled Eggs ($4)

No other chocolate eggs come close to these salted caramel ones from Chocolove. They're constructed of semi-sweet dark chocolate, then stuffed with a caramel filling that delivers on salty flavors to balance everything out. These filled egg treats are the perfect size for snacking throughout the day, plus they'll fill up any empty space in your Easter baskets.

Mr. Carrots Chocolate Bunny ($50)

For a totally unique twist on an Easter chocolate bite, go for this adorable geometrical bunny made from licorice chocolate. Mr. Carrots was designed in Iceland with the finest quality ingredients in mind, so your holiday will be nothing short of sweet!

MadeGood Chocolate Dipped Mini Granola Bars ($7)

You're going to want to inhale these tiny treats. Not only are they fittingly celebratory, boasting a pastel color palette, they also taste amazing all the way through. These bites are organic, nut free, and only 50 cals per bar. Your Easter sweets don't have to be bad for you!

Grillo's Dill Pickle Spears ($7)

These pickles may seem out of place for Easter gifting, but trust us, they're a great option for someone who's a big dill. See what we did there? Any pickle fiend in your life will appreciate these fresh and flavorful spears in their basket.

Olipop Orange Squeeze ($3)

Citrus flavors thrive in the spring, so that's why we're passing along this refreshing Olipop flavor for Eastertime. This tasty sparkling soda supports digestive health with prebiotics and fiber, plus the cute can design is an instant attention-grabber! The drink comes in an array of flavors, so shop the ones you think your recipients will love the most.

Cadbury Milk Chocolate Mini Eggs ($4)

Of course, you have to work in some classic candies in your Easter baskets. The Cadbury eggs are never skipped over for our Easter celebrations, because they're so satisfyingly crunchy and chocolatey.

Fabrizia Golden Egg Easter Box ($46)

Again, citrus shines in this box of Easter desserts made with limoncello infusions. Each gift box yields 5 limoncello cookies, one limoncello loaf, 25 Sicilian lemon drops, and 5 Easter-themed truffles, so your recipients have a variety of zesty sweets to snack on!

Chocolove Easter Truffle Assortment ($20)

Show somebunny you love 'em with this decadent Easter truffle box. They'll relish in the five distinctive flavors: Coconut Ganache in White Chocolate, Lemon Ganache & Orange Gelee in Ruby Chocolate, Salted Caramel & Marshmallow in Milk Chocolate, Lychee, Apricot & Passion Fruit Gelees in Ruby Chocolate, and Caramel Ganache in Dark Chocolate.

Peeps Bunny Pancake Skillet ($11)

Consider Easter brunch sorted, once this bunny skillet is in the mix. This gift comes with just about everything you need to prep Peeps-shaped pancakes during the spring season. Gift it to the kids to put them in charge of the post-Easter morning meals!

Tony's Chocolonely Milk Chocolate Easter Eggs ($8)

If you're not aiming for a fancy take on Easter sweets, these eggs are made of just milk chocolate. Sometimes simpler is better – especially when these bites are full of top ingredients.

Fancy Sprinkles Speckled Egg Sprinkles ($11)

This sprinkle pack is Easter in a jar. Decorate your Easter cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more with this adorable multicolor mix of bunny heads, Easter eggs, pearls, stars, jimmies, and nonpareils!

Jelly Belly Tangerine Baby Carrot Jelly Beans ($5)

We can't forget about carrots for Eastertime – but not the real ones, obviously. It's time to chow down on the sugar! This tangerine-flavored pack from Jelly Belly is the ultimate Easter snack.

Easter Goodies To Gift Everybunny

Now that you've got candy covered, fill your Easter baskets with fun goodies like candles, stuffed animals, and festive socks! These fun gifts round out your baskets even more, so you can show the people in your life some Easter love.

Pastel Easter Egg Candle ($15)

These metallic egg-shaped candles are quite possibly the most gorgeous way to give the gift of decor-boosting Easter pastels. They're so cute, your giftee may not want to bring a match to them!

Easter Bunny Rabbit Face and Tail Ceramic Mug ($23)

Everyone needs a good mug to bring a little cheer to their desk or bedside table! We’re smitten with the bushy-tailed back, and are pretty sure your Easter basket recipients will be, too.

GUND Sustainably Soft Friends Roise Bunny ($25)

This bunny is constructed from 100% recycled materials, but is still extra soft to the touch. Your plush-obsessed kiddo will adore Roise Bunny because of her feel and calming color.

HOTSOX Women's Fuzzy Bunny Crew Sock ($9)

The Easter spirit has never been more alive. Slip into these striped bunny socks and get ready to rock this springtime holiday!

The Letter Vee Easter Printable Bundle ($9)

Use 32 pages of printable banners, tags, coloring pages, and more to add some flair to your Easter baskets! The cohesive color palette and bold designs will make each gift stand out with welcoming Easter messages.

World Market Mushroom Lidded Ceramic Mug ($9)

For an egg-citing addition to this year's baskets, fill this lidded mug with small candies and gift cards! The mushroom shape warms our hearts no matter what season it is, so this gift can easily be utilized past Eastertime for yummy drinks and desk storage.

GUND Pusheen Chocolate Easter Bunny Plush ($29)

Transform a regular old chocolate bunny gift into a lovable plush that your kids or partner can snuggle up with! This Pusheen pick is a different kind of soft (in a good way), and honestly, we could hug on him all day.​

Pattern Standard Straws ($12)

These reusable straws stand up to any drink – hot or cold. Looking to give a sustainable gift? Reach for this rainbow color way that can be used basically every day, for every sip. The pack comes with a cleaner and a carrying case, so the straws go where your recipient goes.

Jellycat Fleury Daisy ($35)

Real bouquets are overrated – floral plushies with adorable faces are the new buzz. This petal pal comes in two different sizes, large and small, to meet your gifting needs, and will fill any room with spring cheer!

Susan Alexandra Plushy Bunny Clip ($38)

The Easter bunny hops right into your hair with this plushy claw clip! Snag this accessory to sport for all the holiday festivities, or gift it to your bestie that needs a boost of Easter spirit!

Williams Sonoma Peter Rabbit Spatula ($16)

Fill your Easter cooking projects with springtime enthusiasm! Peter Rabbit becomes your best new sous chef with this giftable Williams Sonoma design.

Waterdrop 14 oz Steel Water Bottle in Pastel Purple ($27)

This steel bottle keeps cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours, and hot drinks hot for 12. No matter what your recipient is sipping on, their beloved beverage has a comfy home in this sleek pastel bottle!

Bites of Beauty for Your Easter Baskets

Giving the gift of self care can't be excluded from Easter. Pick up some skincare and makeup items to share with your recipients, plus get some more ideas for the gift to yourself.

Chillhouse Chill Tips in Groovy Baby ($16)

Make manis effortless with these press-on nails that come in tons of different colors and patterns. We love the color Groovy Baby because the gradients and palette reflect the light, breezy qualities of spring. Your BFF will want more after trying these on!

Summary Candle to Body Oil ($25)

This candle-to-body oil when lit is the pinnacle of self care. First, take in the lightweight scents of grapefruit, tangerine, and ho wood, before smothering your skin's dry spots in a smooth, nurturing oil.

Glossier Lavender Balm Dot Com ($14)

Any bestie, teen girl, or work pal will lose it over Glossier's Balm Dot Com when they find it sitting in their Easter basket. The new and improved formula comes in a range of flavors and colors, but the lavender one is perfect for spring blooms!

LUSH Golden Egg Bath Bomb Melt ($8)

Honey, toffee, and cocoa butter swirl together to coat a hot bath in the best-smelling and most soothing elements. This golden bath bomb's egg shape seamlessly fits into all the Easter festivities, so when it's time to relax after the holiday, this bath bomb will be a go-to.

TONYMOLY Petit Bunny Gloss Bar ($19)

These darling emotive bunny lip glosses are a great option for Easter basket fillers. They'll welcome your recipient's lips with unforgettable packaging, and moisturizing Vitamin E.

Colourpop Jelly Much Shadow in Big Ego ($9)

For the eyeshadow fanatics, the Colourpop Jelly Much shadow provides a rich coat of color to the lids. Each shade is slathered in iridescent pigments for a unique element to add to any makeup look, especially during spring, when we're seeing more color out and about.

Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Night Mask with Vitamin C ($18)

Feel the absolute freshness with this face mask! The mini size option makes Easter basket filling painless, plus the berry infusions and scents in the mask make this the perfect partner for springtime skin.

Sign up for our newsletter for more Easter shopping, and check out some Easter DIYs on our Pinterest!

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

This post has been updated. Additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Mariska Hargitay is the woman of the hour anywhere she goes, with her iconic Law & Order: SVUrole as Olivia Benson under her belt for the last 25 years. The character is an absolute advocate to women — and assault victims of any gender — through her words, actions, and powerful convictions of each perpetrator on the show. She takes great care with her victims and pursues perpetrators with fervor, and slowly as you watch the show..the line blurs between Olivia and Mariska.

This isn't anything new — just recently Mariska literally stopped production on the show to help a child (who mistook her for an actual police officer) find her mom. It's just who Mariska is. She walks the walk and talks the talk — including during her speech at Variety's Power of Women's Power of Women event.

Image via NBC Universal

As a Power of Women honoree, Mariska was recognized in regards to her work as an advocate for sexual assault survivors. She took the stage and used her platform to discuss rape and assault conviction reversals, shining a light on the recent overturned ruling in Harvey Weinstein's landmark NYC case. Here's what she said:

Today I want to talk about reversing convictions, and more specifically I want to talk to you about how impossible it is to reverse mine. It’s impossible to reverse my conviction that survivors matter. It is impossible to reverse my conviction that what happens to us matters, and that our society must respond to survivors with a more a compassionate, holistically, deeper, and more nuanced understanding of what healing means.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that after a trauma, survivors can reclaim lives of hope, of possibility, of audacious risk, beautiful intimacy, and glorious, glorious abundant joy. And I stand before you as evidence of that statement.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that we must listen to survivors as experts on what justice means. It is extraordinary how little their voices are consulted, let alone incorporated, in the process of deciding how to repair harm. Justice is not a one-size-fits-all journey.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that patriarchal impunity has to end. Patriarchal impunity is when a male-dominated system exempts perpetrators from punishment. Studies show that only 20% of all rape cases in the U.S. are reported to the police, and that between 5 and 0% of all rapes result in a guilty plea or a conviction. So why do 80% of victims not report? Because they're met with a system that grants impunity to perpetrators; a system that blames victims; a system that accepts only those victims who are experienced as "real" rape; a system that completely misunderstands the neurobiology of trauma, which causes behavior in women that doesn't fit the picture of how a "real victim" would act.

Is that change needed that victims should just pull themselves together? Just buck up and report anyway? No. No, it's the system that receives them that needs to change

It is impossible to reverse my conviction — and the conviction of my extraordinary team, The Joyful Heart — that the backlog of untested rape kits can be brought to zero; that the testing of all new kits must be mandated; that we need a statewide kit tracking system; and that survivors have the right to access the status of their kits.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that grammar — yes, grammar — that we use when we speak about rape must change. In the sentence, "A woman is raped," there's a crime and there's a victim, but there's no perpetrator. Where's the perpetrator? Where is he? Statistically, as we know, most likely he's walking free. He's so free that he doesn't even appear in the language about the crime that he committed. Is that not extraordinary? It's extraordinary that in the very grammar, the perpetrator goes free. Reintroducing perpetrators in the language of rape will make some very unwieldy grammar, but that's the nature of change. It's unwieldy, it's messy, it's uncomfortable, but it's necessary.

Image via NBC Universal

Hargitay continued on in her prolific speech to describe that rape shouldn't be considered a "crime of passion" because it's "not simply the next step in the trajectory of his passion" when a man takes a consensual hookup too far and assaults a woman against her will. She stated that it's "an exercise of power," doubling down that the language we use is important.

The speech went on to address that rape is both about power and control, as a "construct" that was "built, and assembled, and reinforced over time." She noted that there are people with these positions of power — and she specifically called out those in the entertainment industry — that could make a difference and aligned themselves to victims and survivors.

After this and some other remarks, Hargitay specifically called out the Weinstein conviction reversal. She said:

I do want to say something about the Harvey Weinstein conviction, specifically about the reason that it was overturned: too many women's voices. Too many women's voices were allowed to speak. Hallelujah! Amen! I can't imagine anything more beautiful than that. The Daily podcast episode talked about how it was so risky for the prosecution to have that many women testify. Risky to let women speak? You're damn right it is!

Too many women speaking brings change. Too many women speaking shakes the establishment. Too many women means we get listened to more, and people might actually hear what we have to say. Look what happened when women started saying just two words, right? Me too — just as an example — a tidal wave of change. Me too.

And then of course, there was the response: the Me Too Movement. The backlash. The examination of whether the changes that have come are lasting, or are even positive. Of course there's a backlash! What did they expect? For women to speak repeatedly, loudly, together, with a purpose — for there to be no backlash? The backlash is evidence of how powerful those voices were, how powerful those voices ARE.

Watch Mariska Hargitay's Full Speech Here

www.youtube.com

Mariska Hargitay's Gets Emotional as She Thanks Her Support System and the Women Around Her

Turns out that your TV heroes really can be your IRL heroes after all. Long live Olivia Benson! Long live Mariska Hargitay!

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Header image via NBC Universal

After Emily in Paris season 3 dropped on Netflix in December of 2022, we were hoping to get the fourth installment of the hit show in 2023. But production halted when the WGA writers' strike, then the SAG-AFTRA actors' strike went to affect, and our beloved cast and crew campaigned for better wages and industry protection. But with the end of the writers' strike, and new SAG negotiations, Emily in Paris season 4 finally began production in February 2024 — and I can already tell you there's sure to be plenty of drama and French fashion this time around.

Not only will we see Emily in Paris (see what I did there?!) but she's also pulling an Audrey Hepburn and taking a little Roman Holiday. That's right — our favorite Parisians are heading to Italy! If that doesn't sound like a dreamy comfort show then I don't know what does. Here's everything we know about the upcoming season of your favorite TV brain candy!!

Is Emily in Paris season 4 coming soon?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Via Variety, Emily in Paris season 4 began production in Paris the week of January 15! "Did someone say Saison Quatre?!" Lily Collins says in her Instagram post announcing production. "Finally reunited with my @emilyinparis fam back in Paris and it feels so good. Although, I may need to brush up on my selfie skills for Emily’s sake…"

Now the wait is over! According to the official announcementfor Emily in Paris, we know part one drops on Netflix August 15, followed by part 2 on September 12. I've been impatiently waiting for this considering we didn't know how filming would be impacted by things like the WGA writers strike!

Is Emily in Paris filmed in Paris?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Yes, Emily in Paris is filmed on location in Paris! We got our first look at Emily in Paris season 4 when Lily Collins and Ashley Park were seen filming in the City of Love (via Daily Mail). The costumes for the series are still as bold and bright as ever, with Ashley's Mindy wearing cobalt and metallic boots, and Lily's Emily dressed head-to-toe in lemon yellow. I can't wait to see what these best friends get up to this season! Check out our Paris travel recommendations to live out your own Emily in Paris dreams ;).

On April 27, Lily Collins confirmed Emily in Paris season 4 had wrapped its France shoot and that the cast & crew have swapped the City of Love for the Eternal City! "When you’re the first ones on the dance floor at the Paris wrap party. Next stop: Rome!" she says on Instagram. Late spring is literally the perfect time to film in Italy and I just know this season is going to give me more wanderlust than ever before. I need gelato!

What's Emily In Paris season 4 about?

Image via Netflix

Season 3 left us with a huge cliffhanger: Alfie breaks up with Emily, Camille learns she's pregnant with Gabriel's baby, Benoit's "Mon Soleil" has been chosen for the Eurovision Song Contest, and Emily and Gabriel realize they've been in love with each other the whole time. Whew.

Emily in Paris season 4 will have a ton of cliffhangers to bring full circle, and a bunch of damage that all the characters need to heal. We know from the Netflix TUDUM fan event that we might also see Emily have to deal with an ultimatum head-on, as well as an unexpected twist. Plus, it looks like she's heading on a "Roman holiday," according to lead actress Lily Collins. We'll take any nod to an Audrey Hepburn movie, please and thank you!

Is Alfie coming back in season 4 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Netflix

We don't have OFFICIAL word on whether Alfie (played by Lucien Laviscount) will return for Emily in Paris season 4, but we're hoping for his sake that he gets some closure. Lucien wants to come back as well! "[The dream is] to keep this gravy train going and just to kind of really live in this world a little bit longer," he says in an interview with Elle. " The writers on the show and the creators behind it and everyone that comes into contact with it is so amazing and fantastic. Their minds [have] way, way, way, way surpassed mine. So, yeah. I’ll let them do their thing.”

Who else is in the Emily in Paris season 4 cast?

Image via Netflix

We can expect the rest of the cast — Lily Collins as Emily, Lucas Bravo as Gabriel, Ashley Park as Mindy, Camille Razat as Camille, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu as Sylvie, Samuel Arnold as Julian, and Bruno Gouery as Luc — to return.

Will there be a season 5 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

It looks like Emily in Paris season 4 will not be the final season, according to creator Darren Star. “There’s a lot more story to tell here and we’re not wrapping things up anytime soon,” Star tells Elle. “And also hopefully season four isn’t the end either. I feel like we’re all creatively feeling like we’re in the middle of something not heading towards the end.”

Darren also told Deadline season 4 is "not necessarily conceived as a final chapter. I think like every other show, it’s a rich ensemble. There’s no end in sight until everybody feels like it’s time to end. And I don’t think this show is limited by a number of seasons, I think it’s limited by everybody’s enthusiasm and excitement about doing it and telling stories about these characters."

We'll take as many seasons of Emily in Paris as they'll give us!!

What has the cast said about Emily in Paris season 4?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

Lucas Bravo told People he's excited for a coming-of-age for Gabriel. "When you start a character, then there's a year where you experience the world and you mature, you become another person and you come back and it's exactly the day you left off," he says. "I'm happy that in season four I'll be able to bring more of what I became and what I've experienced in the past four years."

Even though Lily Collins is now an executive producer, she doesn't want to know TOO much about the future of the show. “Darren and I speak, on occasion, about where he’s thinking of going, but he also doesn’t wanna spoil too much for me because there is a fine line,” she tells Collider. “I don’t wanna know everything because I want to be led with the writing, but I am also curious because, as a producer wanting to celebrate the other characters, I’m very curious to see what their trajectories are."

What happened at the end of Emily in Paris season 3?

Image via Netflix

To be fully prepared for Emily in Paris season 4, it's important to remember just what happened during season 3! The junior season was a bumpy ride for Emily, and it ends with the craziest finale yet. After Camille and Gabriel decide to get married, Camille stops the wedding, saying she knows Gabriel is in love with Emily instead of her. This declaration leads Alfie to break up with our leading lady because he refuses to be her second choice (and honestly, I respect it). That's not the only shocker because Camille also reveals that she's pregnant with Gabriel's child, which comes as a surprise to everyone. Meanwhile, Mindy learns Benoit has submitted a song (specifically "Mon Soleil") to the Eurovision Song Contest and Laurent has his heart set on opening a club in Paris.

Are you excited for Emily in Paris Season 4? Give us your craziest theory in the comments, and check out our Facebook for more pop culture news. Read up on how This Emily In Paris Theory Could Be Why Emily And Gabriel Aren’t Together (Yet).

Lead image via Netflix.

This post has been updated.