6 Extremely Easy and Adorable Costumes for Mom and Baby

If you’ve been following Brit + Co for awhile, you may recall last year when we dressed Brit’s baby bump in all sorts of absurd, clever and creative maternity Halloween costumes. Well, it’s one year later, and we’ve roped her into another series of fun Halloween costumes ideas — this time with her sweet one-year old son, Ansel!

Kelly Bryden

Misty Spinney put each of these six looks together, and the insanely photogenic Morins rocked each one beautifully. Every costume on this list is super simple to put together yourself (even if you’re a busy mom with a one-year old!).

That monkey suit? COME ON. It’s too good. And we found it at thrift shop — how serendipitous is that? If you don’t happen to have the best luck ever at your local secondhand store, there are plenty of affordable monkey options on Amazon. When it comes to baby costumes, ones that require this much effort don’t really make sense to DIY unless you’ve got mad sewing skills and a fair amount of spare time.

1. Curious George and The Woman in the Yellow Hat Costume

For Brit as The Woman in the Yellow Hat, the costume is simple as can be. Find a simple yellow dress or a t-shirt and skirt or even pants and a button down if you have one, and you’re 90% done with your costume. Add a neck scarf to give the explorer vibe, a pair of booties and top the whole look off with a safari-style hat. Done and done.

Though it was completely absurd that Claire, the main female character in Jurassic World, ran around the entire movie in heels, the simplicity of her look is one we can get behind. Find a matching blazer and pencil skirt (a suit, if you will) and a pair of nude heels, and your look is complete.

2. Jurassic World, Claire and a Baby Dino Costume

But let’s talk about that dino costume. You’ll never believe it, but this was ALSO a thrift store find! We found it at Savers, and honestly couldn’t believe our luck. Like the monkey costume, you can find pretty affordable options on Amazon, but we highly recommend a thrifting trip. Most baby Halloween costumes are worn for a total of 20 minutes tops so they’re available in droves.

The statement piece that you can’t quite see is the sprinkle-covered onesie Brit made for Ansel the night before this shoot! A little fabric paint and five minutes is all it took to whip up. So cute! To create the donut, we cut a donut shape out of cardboard, then attached fabric to the center and stuffed with batting. Use hot glue to bring the fabric around the cardboard to seal your donut. Add your icing layer with another piece of fabric. Then cut felt pieces to make your sprinkles.

3. Cop and Donut Costume

For Brit’s look, start with black pants and black top. Layer a black blazer over it, ideally with gold buttons if you’ve got ‘em. Attach a sheriff pin to the blazer and find yourself a cop hat. These two pieces are easy to find at most costume stores, or on Amazon if you don’t have time for a shopping trip. Finish the whole look off with a very stern donut-loving look and you’re good to go.

I know, I know. When you first read Usher, you were thinking, “U Got It Bad.” Sadly, in today’s edition of awesome Halloween costumes, that Usher is nowhere to be found. This costume is one you’ve definitely seen on the Internet, but we had to recreate it with these two darlings. The usher look is simple — black skirt, white button down and bowtie.

4. Usher and Bucket of Popcorn Costume

For the popcorn, grab your baby carrier and a handful of safety pins. That’s right — this is totally temporary piece. Create the front of your popcorn bucket by attaching red stripes to a piece of sturdy white fabric. You can use felt for this, or ribbon. Use adhesive felt letters to add POPCORN to the pieces, then attach to your baby carrier using safety pins. For the popcorn hat, we purchased a cheap baby hat and hot glued actual popcorn right to it.

Venture under the sea with this Disney classic. I know you are going to guffaw in disbelief, but we actually found that cuddly red onesie at a thrift shop. No joke! Obviously crabs like Sebastian aren’t typically furry, but this was too cute to resist. Outfit your wee one in a red onesie, and then make a simple cotton headband with red pipe cleaners and googly eyes. So easy!

5. The Little Mermaid Ariel and Sebastian Costume

Ariel’s outfit is a little more complex. We created a mermaid skirt from scratch, layering pale purple and green fabric to create an iridescent look. You could also do the same thing on top of an existing skirt if you don’t have the time or skills to create a skirt from start to finish. Up on top, we have a metallic purple bandeau tied underneath a purple shell bikini. Top the whole thing off with a luxe red wig and you’ll be singing songs with fish in no time.

Naturally, our grand finale is the Queen Bee herself, Beyoncé. We couldn’t resist a little word play with the whole Bee/Bey thing and the fact that our fearless leader Brit is often known as B to her closest friends. For the queen bee, get yourself a fitted yellow dress. Then belt it. Order a pair of inexpensive bee or yellow butterfly wings, and then crown yourself with a tiara fit for a… queen bee ;)

6. Queen Bey[oncé] and Blue Ivy Costume

Of course, Blue Ivy is the real star here. Blue onesie? Check. Fake ivy painted blue? CHECK.

This Halloween might be your infant’s first, so why not go all out when it comes to their baby costume idea? Maybe he or she’s a wee bit young for candies and gummies, but that doesn’t mean you have to sidestep dressing up your kiddo to show ’em off during trick-or-treat time. And, let’s face it: Anything miniaturized is freakin’ adorable. Here are some of the sweetest and most creative infant Halloween costumes to either DIY or buy for your baby this spooky season.

Popcorn Bucket + Usher Costume

Grab your baby carrier and get ready to hack this on-the-go popcorn bucket. The best part? The ensemble is totally temporary, so you can transition from daytime to trick-or-treating in a snap. (via Brit + Co)

"Game of Thrones" DIY Khaleesi Costume

Before she was the Mother of Dragons, she was just a ‘lil BB of dragons. (via Brit + Co)

Baby Dino From "Jurassic World" Costume

No scary T. Rex here. In that plush spiked onesie, this baby dino is the only Jurassic World reptile we’ll be running toward. (via Brit + Co)

Baby Sunshine + Rainbow Costume

No rainy days here! Complement your ray of sunshine in a technicolored rainbow ensemble for the perfect mommy and me getup. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Malala Yousafzai Costume

At 25 years old, Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai is a widely loved and globally respected activist, focused specifically on the right to education. Honor her work by outfitting your tiny one in her likeness. (via Brit + Co)

Princess + Toad Costume

This mom and baby costume is a video game combo that will make any Mario-lover happy. Coordinate your costume with your kiddo as Princess and Toad to take your Halloween game a level up. (via Brit + Co)

DIY "Handmaid’s Tale" Costume

Hailed as a feminist work since its publication in 1985, Margaret Atwood’s novel The Handmaid’s Tale makes for a slightly dark, dystopian costume option for your feminist tot. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Suffragette Costume

These OG feminists fought for our right to vote. Hell to the YES. To recreate this late 19th-century look, you’ll need a bonnet, a simple white dress, and a DIY “Votes for Women” sash. (via Brit + Co)

"Where the Wild Things Are" Costume

This costume set is a DIY + buy combo. You can purchase your baby’s Max costume and DIY your own with some distressed leggings, a striped tee, a homemade tail, and horns. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Hillary Clinton Costume

A rabble-rouser from the start, Clinton has first lady, senator, secretary of state, *and* first female presidential candidate on her resume. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Yayoi Kusama Costume

Avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama is a personal hero of ours, and it goes beyond a love of patterns and polka dots. (via Brit + Co)

Sriracha + Taco Costume

Hot sauce and Mexican food are a match made in heaven, and so is this costume duo for you and your youngster. (via Brit + Co)

Elmo Costume

Elmo is an obvious choice for your child. Just add in Big Bird and you have the ultimate Sesame Street duo. (via Brit + Co)

DIY "Curious George" and The Woman in the Yellow Hat Costume

That monkey suit? It’s too good. (via Brit + Co)

Rosie the Riveter Costume

Rosie the Riveter may just be the most iconic symbol of the women’s movement, so why not give your little one a jump-start on creative female empowerment? (via Brit + Co)

DIY BB8 Costume

For all the Star Wars fans, with love. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Finding Dory Costume

Baby Dory has huge pink-colored eyes, so this is a must for her costume. Use felt to create the eyes and hot-glue them onto the front of the onesie. (via Brit + Co)

Ruth Bader Ginsburg Costume

Baby RBG is giggly, smiley, and a Supreme Court #girlboss. (via Brit + Co)

"Star Wars" Ewok Costume

We didn’t think Ewoks could get any cuter… until we laid eyes on this guy! All those furry accents will make you ready for a cuddle sesh in no time. (via Brit + Co)

"Top Gun" Costume

Who doesn’t love the ’80s classic Top Gun? Complete your trio with a pint-sized Goose getup designed for maximum cuteness. (via Brit + Co)

Darth Vader Bodysuit

If you've been binge watching Star Wars: Ahsokaon Disney then it's a good idea to let your little one join in on the fun by dressing them up as Darth Vader. (via Amazon)

Disguise "The Incredibles" Costume

Don’t let the mini getup fool you — this little guy has some incredible superpowers. (via Wal-Mart)

Rubie's Wonder Woman Costume

She’s strong. She’s confident. She’s fierce… And she’s not yet one! Here comes your little Wonder Woman! (via Amazon)

Baby Penguin Costume

If your little one can't stop moving whenever you put on Happy Feet then you should get this cute baby penguin costume for them to wear for Halloween! (via Amazon)

Baby Monkey Costume

This little baby monkey costume is too adorable! (via Amazon)

Whimsy Lane Boutique Baby Candy Corn Hat 

Candy Corn Hat Baby Costume

Don’t miss out on the photo-op of the year by dressing your newborn as this perfectly themed Halloween treat. It’s the sweetest costume out there. (via Etsy)

Infant T-Rex Costume

RAWR - the infant T-Rex is coming through! Make a statement with this green dino costume for Halloween. (via Halloween Costumes)

The Cat in the Hat Infant Costume

The Cat in the Hat is a classic Dr. Suess book that's stood the test of the time. Buy this costume so your baby can become our favorite kooky titular character for Halloween! (via Halloween Costumes)

Infant Bumble Bee Costume

Have you ever noticed how precious bumble bees really are? If you'd care not to get close to them, you'll find it hard to stop hugging your baby when you see them in this costume. (via Halloween Costumes)

Infant Care Bears Cheer Bear Costume

Babies are super sweet so it makes sense to dress your infant as Cheer Bear from the Care Bears franchise. (via Halloween Costumes)

Baby Lion Cub Costume

This baby lion cub costume reminds us ofThe Lion King. To have your own little Simba right at home, be sure to get this costume in time for Halloween! (via Halloween Costumes)

Avocuddles Infant Costume

It may be slightly corny but this avocuddles infant costume is too cute to leave off our list! (via Halloween Costumes)

Clueless Cher Infant Costume

Your baby probably can't say "As if" yet but you've probably caught an eye roll here and there. Dress her in Cher's stylish outfit for Halloween to match her energy. (via Halloween Costumes)

Wonderland Alice Infant Costume

Chances are your baby is crawling around the house and finding ways to get into things you thought were out of reach. Encourage her curious nature by dressing her as Alice from Alice In Wonderland. (via Halloween Costumes)

Sweet Chef Infant Costume

Give yourself a break from the kitchen by letting this costume transform your baby into a Michelin-star rated chef. (via Halloween Costumes)

Spider-Man Infant Costume

We don't need another Spider-Man unless they look like your sweet baby for Halloween. (via Halloween Costumes)

Exclusive Disney Up Russell Costume For Infants

Little Russell stole our hearts in Pixar's Up so we know your baby is about to do the same once people see them in this costume! (via Halloween Costumes)

Humpty Dumpty Infant Costume

Okay, be honest - you'd love to see your baby rolling around in this Humpty Dumpty costume. (via Halloween Costumes)

Infant Cinderella Prestige Costume

Cinderella is the perfect Halloween costume for anyone - including your baby! (via Halloween Costumes)

Spongebob Squarepants Infant Costume

Your baby will be ready in no time once you dress them as Spongebob Squarepants for Halloween! (via Halloween Costumes)

Infant Baby Shark Costume

Baby Shark's legacy lives on with this darling costume! (via Halloween Costumes)

Loaf of Bread Infant Costume

If you think your baby is the best thing since sliced bread, you need to buy this loaf of bread infant costume for them.

Santa Baby Costume

Santa Claus never looked cuter than this baby costume! (via Halloween Costumes)

Bunny Infant Costume

Easter may be long-gone but that doesn't mean your baby can't dress as a cute bunny for Halloween! (via Halloween Costumes)

Loving these baby costume ideas? Check out our Halloween page for more BOO-zy Cocktail Recipes, Couples' Costumes, and Tasteful Halloween Decor that will make this Halloween the best yet!

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.

Lead image via Halloween Costumes.

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

Halloween is SOON and that means it's time to party like animals, y'all. This is one holiday when it's totally appropriate to show off your wild side without worrying about having your sanity questioned. Finally, an excuse to dress up as something you're not. So we say forget trying to pin down that perfectly creative and easy-to-execute costume and just go a little wild. If you're still costume-less and idea-less, it's safe to end your “what to wear" quest now — whether you want to buy, DIY, dress up the whole fam, you and your sig-O and/or just wear a fuzzy onesie all day and night we have you covered.

Flamingo

You know what they always say: Halloween is the best time to let your inner bird shine. This outfit is super easy and quick to make, so you'll have time to make one for yourself and your little mini-me.

Nemo

Turn it into a family costume with the whole Finding Dory getup. (via Brit + Co)

Bumble Bee

Grab some felt and get crafty with this tech-focused and contemporary take on a classic bee costume - the Bumble dating app! (via Brit + Co)

Baby Cow Costume

Everyone will be udderly delighted by this tiny cow. And it's SO easy to execute. (via Make It and Love It)

T-Rex Costume ($99)

Clearly falls under the cute category. We can hardly imagine anything more aww-dorable!

Pig Costume

A completely pink clothing ensemble can transform into a pig costume with the simple addition of ears and a snout. (via A Little Red House)

Wise Old Owl Glasses

How simple and cute are these sweet owl glasses that can double as Halloween photobooth props too! (via Emmy in the Making)

Bear ($37)

Is Halloween here yet? We just can't wait for an excuse to walk about in this cozy bear costume.

Adult Giraffe Onesie Kigurumi Pajamas ($60)

In case you didn't know that adult onesies were a thing, here's proof. If it pains you to invest in a piece that you'll only wear one day of the year, take heart knowing that this costume can definitely double as cozy pjs after their big debut.

Little Llama Costume

Your little one will feel eight feet tall in this adorable DIY. (via Oh Happy Day)

DIY Penguin

Wanna pull something creative out of your craft closet? This penguin looks boutique, but no one needs to know that you actually created it out of a few items in your craft closet. (Shhh, we won't tell!) Dress as Mary Poppins and — boom. Mom + baby costume FTW! (via Make It and Love It)

Baby Woodland Deer Costume ($69)

We're obsessed with this, the sweetest fawn we've ever seen.

Panda Bear ($45)

This cuddly panda costume is already a steal, but if you're the crafty type, this look could also easily be cleverly recreated with a black tutu, tights, leg warmers and a hoodie.

Lion Halloween Makeup Tutorial

www.youtube.com

Lion Halloween Makeup Tutorial

Lion Halloween Makeup

Mee-yow! (via From Head to Toe)

Little Lamb

Got a last minute invite to a costume party? Rummage through your bathroom cabinet for the cottonballs, there's still time to DIY this one-of-a-kind little lamb. (via Parents)

Party Animals

Knock it out of the park at this year's Halloween bash with a costume that calls for a mask of your choice and your Saturday night best. Who's ready to party? (via Brit + Co)

DIY No-Sew Fox Ears

For our procrastinating friends who have that Halloween thing to go to and nothing to wear, here's a DIY idea that's ideal for last minute. Use a bit of fur and some glue to transform a headband into a fantastic foxy headpiece. (via BITS)

No-Sew Kids Lion Halloween Costume

Wanna play king for a day? This no-sew lion costume is totally fun. (via A Night Owl Blog)

Raven Mask ($59)

Can you say… HOT?

Big Bad Wolf Hoodie

DIY enthusiasts, Halloween is the perfect time to get your game on. (via Martha Stewart)

Animal Ear Clips

This easy tutorial might be the last minute and/or work-appropriate costume of your dreams. (via Gleeful Things)

DIY Snail Costume

Have you ever seen a snail as cuddly as this one? We didn't think so. (via Oh Happy Day)

Cow Costume ($25+)

Halloween just doesn't get any more comfy than this cow costume.

Handmade Hooty Owl Costume

This costume gets its inspiration from our feathered friends. Proof that DIYs are a zillion times more creative than anything you'll find in a superstore. (via My Owl Barn)

Caterpillar Costume ($69)

Bundle up your toddler in this Eric Carle-inspired costume. It's just about as snuggly as they come.

Dog Costume

To recreate your child's favorite animal, spray paint brown spots onto a grey hooded sweatshirt and sweatpants, then add a brown felt tail and ears. Almost too easy. (via BHG)

Foxy Halloween Costume

This foxy getup is as non-basic as it gets. With a bit of makeup and a quick hair transformation you'll blow everyone's minds. (via Katie Nash)

Madame Butterfly Costume

You can bet that no one at your party will do a butterfly like this! Let Martha help you craft a beautiful butterfly hairpiece using a flurry of the winged beauties (artificial, of course). (via Martha Stewart)

Denim-Clad Horse People

Get a little country and a little creepy with this easy last minute couples costume. (via Brit + Co)

Lion Mask ($12)

Tease your hair and turn this into a pretty sweet last minute costume.

Faux Fur Tail + Ears Tutorial

These simple sewing tutorials will transform you into any animal you want based on what faux fur you pick. (via jessyratfink on Instructables)

DIY Halloween Zebra Costume

Go for Best in Class with this easy to make zebra costume. That mane will be the talk of the party! (via Baby Gizmo)

DIY Jellyfish Costume

Wanna be that mom who comes up with cool out-of-the-box costume? Well, you can stop racking your brain because we've just located the prettiest DIY. This jellyfish might just be our favorite of the bunch — and you could DIY an adult version with longer tentacles! (via Style Me Pretty)

Bjork Swan Dress Tutorial

No one will ever guess that this dress was a DIY. Bjork's got nothing on her. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Halloween Bunny Ears and Dress Up Kit ($20)

Why not go a bit more cutting edge with your costume? This ensemble from ASOS has all the items you need to transform into a bunny for a few bucks.

Kids' Giraffe Costume ($89)

This impressive DIY is (wait for it) actually really inexpensive to do using posterboard and ModPodge. That's right, you might even have the goodies to make it right now.

Butterfly Costume

Bust out your tie dying skills on Halloween for more than a hippy costume. (via Oh Happy Day)

The Perfect Black Cat

Okay, so here's the thing about the black cat. A lot of people will be doing it. So if you want go for this look, better to go DIY. And sassy. (via Brit + Co)

Care Bear Family

What? Care Bears count as animals — especially when the whole family gets involved in an amazing DIY project that calls for some sorbet-hued sweatsuits and a set of crafting skillz. (via See Vanessa Craft)

Fantastic Mr. Fox Sibling Costume

Pop culture + animal-inspired = this DIY idea that you can do to any degree (the print in the kiddy costume is hand-painted, but the masks in the adult version could be a last minute hack). It makes a sweet sibling ensemble or works for grownup Wes Anderson fans who have the Hallotween look down pat and can't be Margot and Richie Tenenbaum one more year. (via Skirt As Top)

Fantastic Mr. Fox Couples Costume

Grownups are more likely to be into this movie-themed costume so here's some adult inspo!! (via A Beautiful Mess)

DIY Bird Mask

This gorgeous mask can be crafted with crepe and dressed up with your outfit of choice. (via Martha Stewart)

Skunk ($50)

Too cute to be stinky.

Rainbow Unicorn ($44)

What little girl isn't in love with the idea of the unicorn? Turn fantasy into reality with this mystical costume — or use it as DIY inspo.

Crocodile Costume

What can you create with a cardboard box, butcher paper and some tape? Why, this crocodile, of course! (via Evil Mad Scientist)

Dress Up Your Lips

There might not be a tutorial attached to these kissers, but may we recommend using them as inspo for the best lowkey look ever? (via lolhit)

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Family of four, you've just found this year's coordinating costumes. We find these bear heads slightly disturbing but they're sure to make a statement. (via A Beautiful Mess)

DIY Animal Scarves Out of Stuffed Animals

Complete your child's wild ensemble with a DIY animal scarf. The best part about this? The scarves were made from actual stuffed animals. (via A Subtle Revelry)

No-Sew Dinosaur Costume

Dinos are animals too, right? Yes, especially when they're this adorbs and this easy to make. (via Gingersnap Crafts)

DIY Spider Costume

Consider this a Halloween intervention — we're bringing you the coolest creepy-crawly spider costume EVER. This will be an epic DIY. (via Pretty Providence)

P.S. We can't wait to hear about all your creative creations! Share with us @BritandCo!

This article has been updated from an earlier post.

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


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!

Follow us on Facebook for more celebrity and pop culture news.

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.