20 Sexy Faux Leather Pants To Bring Out Your Inner Rockstar This Winter

20 faux leather pants

In my humble opinion, faux leather pants are the antidote to a cold winter morning when you want to look stylish. This doesn't mean jeans and joggers are going out of time any time soon, but I just love how faux leather pants can elevate any look. It's super easy it is to build an outfit that centers around these glossy trousers, so what are you waiting for?! Here are 20 to try, from leggings to wide-leg pants!

Pistola Cassie Faux Leather Super High-Rise Straight-Leg Pants

Give your black jeans a break and opt for these khaki faux leather pants.

Steve Madden Loren Faux Leather Pants

This pair of Steve Madden faux leather pants are pretty straight-forward. All they require are your legs.

HELSA Waterbased Faux Leather Cargo Pants

If you want to wear cargo faux leather pants that have a minimal amount of extra pockets, here's another option for you!

Norma Kamali Spat Vegan Leather Pants

Don't let anyone tell you that wearing leggings makes you lazy. I love fashion, but I also believe it's not worth compromising whatever you're comfortable with.

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Vegan Leather Straight Pant

Technically, these are vegan leather pants. I just couldn't resist adding them to the list because the color serves as a neutral.

Good American Good Icon Faux Leather Pants

Nothing says sexy like a pair of curve-hugging faux leather pants.

SPANX Leather-Like Ankle Skinny Pants

If you want your faux leather pants to feel like skin, reach for Spanx's skinny version.

Commando 7/8 Faux Leather Leggings

These leggings would love to go under your new oversized chunky knit sweater you bought. Once you add a chic wool coat over your outfit, you'll look like you have an important meeting to attend.

Silence + Noise Sydney Faux Leather Moto Pant

I love a good pair of moto pants that give me punk-rock vibes.

Nine West Pleated Faux Leather Pants

Still want to wear cropped bottoms? I don't blame you.

BlankNYC Faux Leather Carpenter Pants

As a matter of fact, buy two pairs of cropped faux leather pants!

BAR III Faux-Leather Wide-Leg Pants

I saw these pants and almost lost my mind at how affordable they are! They're easy to pull-on and will go with just about anything in your closet.

The Frankie Shop Bonnie Croc-Effect Faux Leather Straight-Leg Pant

For my girls who love to be different, this pair of croc-effect faux leather pants is begging you to add them to your wishlist. They're the ultimate definition of sexy.

The Frankie Shop Bonnie Croc-Effect Faux Leather Straight-Leg Pants

And again, take a chance on yourself by buying a blue pair of croc-effect pants.

MANGO Wide Leg Faux Leather Pants

If you're a part of the corporate world and want to figure out how to make your faux leather pants office-friendly, MANGO designed these pants just for you.

Alice + Olivia Dylan Vegan Leather Wide Leg Pants

Black faux leather pants that happen to be wide-leg? Oh, please sign everyone up!

Vigorbear Faux Leather Pants

Or maybe we should focus on brown wide-leg pants. Decisions, decisions.

Free People Lucky You Faux Leather Pants

I like that these aren't tailored. Sometimes we could use a break from looking too put together.

AFRM Parker Oversized Cargo Faux Leather Pants

If you really want to channel your inner rockstar, you need a pair of cargo faux leather pants.

MOTHER The Rambler Lounger Ankle Faux Leather Pants

Or, you can opt for this pull-on version that'll keep you warm and comfortable.

What are your go-tos for leveling up your outfit? Let us know in the comments!

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

Lead image via The Frankie Shop

Memorial Day weekend is nigh, and in the midst of planning your epic BBQ spread and a slew of themed cocktails, it's also time to start noting the Memorial Day sales you'll be shopping for a much-needed summer refresh. We've got the scoop on savings in just about every category – from beauty to home decor to fashion – so you know exactly when and where to save big.

Scroll on for the Memorial Day sales we're most excited about for 2024, and make sure to come back here for additional sale info!

Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum

Target

What: Items up to 60% off

When: May 24-27

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer

Amazon

What: Deals on everything from home goods to decor

When: Now through Memorial Day

Naturepedic

  • 20% Off Sitewide with code MEMORIAL20
  • May 15-29

Casper

  • Up to 30% off everything
  • May 8-June 4

Purple Mattress

Mila Mirror

Anthropologie Home

What: Savings on home goods

When: May 21-27

Peony Vase Thank You Card Set

Papier

What: 15% off stationery & photo books

When: May 22-29

Sherpa Deluxe Black Guarenteed On Board Soft Sided Dog & Cat Carrier

Petco

What: BOGO 50% off select summer products and 20% off select sherpa carriersWhen: May 24-27

Dallas IV Hat

Hood

What: 25% off sitewide with code USA25

When: May 23-27

CZ Crescent with Stars Necklace

Sterling Forever

What: 20% off sitewide with code SUMMER20

When: May 24-28

Stemless Wine Chiller Pair

VoChill

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 17-27

The Coated Pan

Material Kitchen

What: 20% off (*promo excludes bundles and collaborations)

When: May 23-27

EOS Classic Organic Mattress

Naturepedic

What: 20% off sitewide with code MEMORIAL20

When: May 15-29

Pierrette Dress

SAYLOR

What: Extra 15% off sale styles with code MDAY24

When: May 27

Sea Green Pleated Tennis Skirt

Gold Hinge

What: 25% off sitewide with code MDAY25

When: May 23-27

Calista FAUXblo Thermal Blowout Brush

Calista

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 24

CAROL Bike

CAROL Bike

What: Take $200 off sitewide on all CAROL bikes

When: May 24-30

Cartolina Louise Cover-Up

Cartolina

What: 30% off sitewide

When: May 22-28

Carve Designs Zella Mesh Pullover

Carve Designs

What: BOGO red, white, and blue swim; buy 1 swimsuit, get one swimsuit 50% off

When: May 23-27

Essentia Stratami Organic Mattress

Essentia

What: 25% off sitewide, plus receive free GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Sheets with qualifying mattress purchases

When: May 13-31

Harper Wilde Bliss Scoop Bralette

Harper Wilde

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 24-27

MARLOWE. Soap Bar Discovery Gift Set

MARLOWE.

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 27

Pura 4 Diffuser

Pura

What: 25% off sitewide through code only (subscriber early access: May 23-27), 25% off sitewide, plus subscribe to the Pura V4 and get a free car set

When: May 21-22

Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30

Vacation

What: 20% off sitewide, plus get a free boat keychain or pen on orders over $65 (while supplies last)

When: May 24-27

Custom Pet Portrait Phone Case

West & Willow

What: 20% off sitewide with code MDAY

When: May 20-28

Olsen Leather Lounge Chair

Industry West

What: 20% off sitewide with code Memorial20

When: May 21-31

Claira Dress

Hutch

What: Additional 35% off all final sale styles. (No returns or exchanges with discounts automatically applied at checkout.)

When: May 23-27

3 Seat Chaise Couch in Coconut

Homebody

What: 15% off sitewide with code HONOR

When: May 16-27

Blush & Bronze Hydro-Blur Cheek Duo

Stila Cosmetics

What: 20% off orders $0 to $49 with code MDAY20, 25% off orders $50 to $99 with code MDAY25, 30% off orders of $100+ with code MDAY30

When: May 27

Tree Flyer 2

Allbirds

What: 20% off select styles online

When: May 13-20

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on these Memorial Day sales + all the best deals!

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.

10 Things I Hate About You and The Office fans listen up! There's a new project coming to Netflix from Kate Hudson and Mindy Kaling, and you NEED to know about it. Just like the best female-led TV shows, Running Point promises to be empowering, hilarious, and just a lot of fun. Keep reading for everything you need to know about the new TV show.

What is Running Point about?

Image via Netflix

This new TV show follows Isla Gordon (played by Kate Hudson), who becomes President of the Los Angeles Waves basketball team after a scandal means her brother has to retire. In the male-dominated world of sports, Isla will have to prove to everyone around her — her brothers, the board, and the fans — that she can balance work AND play.

When does Running Point come out?

Image via Netflix

Running Point is coming to Netflix in 2025.

Who's in the Running Point cast?

Image via Netflix

Running Point stars Kate Hudson, Brenda Song, Drew Tarver, Scott MacArthur, Fabrizio Guido, Toby Sandeman, Chet Hanks, Max Greenfield, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Roberto Sanchez, Uche Agada, and Dane DiLiegro.

I am so excited to see another show written by Mindy Kaling, especially one that stars Brenda Song and Kate Hudson! Let us know what you're currently binge watching on Facebook.

Lead image via Netflix

We love to celebrate and support all different types of fabulous AAPI founders, and one way to do so is by shopping their incredible products! I know I'm not alone when I say I love coming across new brands, especially if they're BIPOC or women-owned. And while I'm sure you don't think you need a cute new slip dress or hand-poured candle, I'm confident you'll find something to snag from one of the below AAPI brands!

AAPI Fashion & Beauty Finds To Shop

Ming Wang Knits Midi Slip Dress

This cute slip dress is full of summer colors like flamenco and pale marigold that make it impossible to look away from. The pleated detail adds depth and dimension to the dress while the smart color blocking style gives it a versatile appeal. Have a cute summer soiree or daytime wedding to attend? This dress has your name on it.

Misook Midi Fit & Flare Dress

Black dresses will always be trendy because of their chic factor. Misook's fit and flare dress has a button-front design that has exposed stitching on the front, but don't let that deter you. If anything, that's what helps this dress stand out from the crowd.

The other thing that I absolutely adore about it is that it features hidden side pockets. They may not be needed, but they're certainly welcomed here!

If you want to look like the ultimate "it girl" this summer, add this midi dress to your shopping cart ASAP!

Pistola Denim Aria Jumpsuit

If you're not sure if you want to wear denim dresses this summer, give jumpsuits a chance! They're the epitome of cool and make you look stylish with minimal effort.

Pistola Denim designed their retro denim jumpsuit to have comfortable stretch (so important) so you can move around without feeling like you're being restricted by the fabric. Whether you want to pair it with cowboy boots or a cute pair of heels is up to you!

Maile Kitty Heel in Black Canvas

Since we're on the subject of how the color black makes things look good, Maile's black canvas heels have stolen the heart of the fashionista that lives in a portion of my mind. They're the epitome of 90s style and will look good with Misook's midi black dress.

Since the heel height is under 4 inches, you'll feel comfortable sauntering from place to place.

Behno Tina Baguette Mini Pebbled Ruched (Buttercream)

Butter yellow is the color of the summer and Behno's tiny baguette basically confirms it. The exterior is designed with supple leather and it comes with a chain crossbody strap in case you get tired of holding it in your hand.

I happen to love that it comes in a dust bag to signal the luxurious quality of it. Although it's a mini bag, your cellphone, wallet, keys, a pair of sunglasses, and lip oils can fit inside without an issue!

Ming Yu Wang Orbita Earrings

There are a ton of earrings on the market, but this pair stands out with their orbital design. They're rhodium plated and recycled with cute multicolored resin objects that line the inside of them. Whether you want to wear them daily or reserve them for a special date night, these earrings are sure to be the center of attention wherever you go.

These earrings are sure to sell fast during AAPI month so make sure you order a pair today!

BONBONWHIMS Heart Gumdrop Tennis Necklace (Deep Red)

Haven't you heard? Tenniscore is in and we have the Challengers film to thank for that. I love that this necklace has featured on the TODAY show according to BONBONWHIMS' site and is 18K sterling silver-plated.

Those of us with sensitive skin know that we have to be careful when we wear certain jewelery because certain things trigger allergic reactions, but BONBONWHIMS isn't hearing any of that with this hypoallergenic necklace.

It's also available in different colors should you find that you're not a fan of the deep red color.

AMYO Tiny Starburst Earrings

These 14K earrings are a perfect buy during AAPI Month due to their dainty design. Featuring cubic zirconia stones in the center of the dangly shapes, you won't lose the back of your earrings because they also have a click close design that makes putting and taking them off super easy.

Notte Amore Mio Charm Necklace

I can safely wear statement necklaces again now that my son is almost four so I'm proud to say Notte's Amore Mio charm necklace is a bias pick.It has a thick gold-plated moon-cut chain and several charms that will make any outfit you wear feel stylish.

You can also customize one of the charms to feature your Zodiac sign and it's a handmade necklace.

YENSA AAPI Month Kit

In honor of AAPI Month, YENSA has curated a collection of their skincare staples! You'll find the brand's Super Glow Radiance Polishing Mask, Pink Lotus Peptide Renewal Face Cream, and their Pink Lotus Peptide Renewal Eye Creaminside of the kit.

ONE/SIZE On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray

If there's one person whose makeup judgement I trust, it's Patrick Starrr. Known for creating memorable makeup looks on YouTube, Starrr founded ONE/SIZE as a way to celebrate underrepresented cultures and voices.

This is just one of the standout products that I not only stand by, but it even has Beyoncé's stamp of approval! Besides being waterproof, it offers up to 16 hours of protection from the elements.

Seriously, you need this setting spray if you're looking for something that'll keep your makeup intact without irritating your skin.

Avatara The Simple Shield Balancing Moisturizer + SPF 30

Need a balancing moisturizer that also protects your skin from the sun? Avatara wants to introduce you to The Simple Shield!

Made with SPF 30, you'll also find things like hyaluronic acid and ceramides inside. While one works to add moisture to your skin, the other locks it in place. In Avatara's words, think of this like a "skin-balancing Kombucha."

No wonder it's one of their bestselling products!

Apothékary Glow Getter Starter Set

Sometimes we all deal with dullness regardless of our skin type, but Apothékary has a solution that all but banishes that: their Glow Getter Starter Set. It's full of collagen-boosting and skin-restoring goodies that are meant to have lasting effects on the skin. Included in the set are:

  • Firm Believer: a collagen-boosting herbal formula that helps produce glowing skin
  • You Dew You: a skin-restoring formula that's antioxidant-rich and soothes skin inflammation
  • Formula Frother
  • Gold Daily Remedy Spoon

DAMDAM Skin Mud Pure Vitamin C Brightening Mask

Vitamin C has been a game changer for my skin so I always look for products that include it like DAMDAM's Skin Mud Pure Vitamin C Brightening Mask. If you have oily or combination skin like me, you'll love that it helps minimize pores, tackle any elasticity issues you're facing, and help balance your skin's natural oils.

While I could rave about Vitamin C all day, this mask also has kaolin clay in it and is certified as being plant aware at Sephora!

AAPI Home, Kitchen, and Lifestyle Brands To Shop

Aerangis No. 40 LIvraria Antiga

This candle is so book-lovers coded because it's scent is described as 'sandalwood and old books.' It's meant to offer a grounding experience with a hint of romance whenever lit, making it the perfect companion to your new "romantansy" book. The full notes are:

  • Top: Ceylon Pepper, Saffron, Lemon Peel
  • Middle: Rose, Patchouli, Sandalwood
  • Base: Vanilla, Birch Resin

You'll also get 50 hours of burn time without inhaling toxic fumes!

Copper Cow Coffee Vanilla Ground Coffee

This coffee may make you breakup with Starbucks beyond AAPI Month. You can trust that you're getting 100% Vietnamese coffee that's a delicious blend of robusta and arabica, and is also sustainably sourced. The vanilla beans are very real and ground into absolute perfection so you can serve coffee however you want at home.

Want to make a cold brew or rely on your french press? Copper Cow Coffee makes it easy for you to follow your coffee-loving heart's desires.

Blume Matcha Coconut Blend

Blume has a yummy Matcha Coconut Blend that's going to replace your favorite morning drink soon. Instead of giving you coffee jitters, this organic blend from the Shizuoka region of Japan will give you the flavor and boost of energy you need.

It's a nice blend of stone-ground, hand-picked matcha and antioxidant-rich moringa that'll make you want to stand on your balcony or patio in the morning while sipping it. It's also balanced with L-theanine which is why you won't experience the usual side effects of drinking coffee.

And get this: you'll be able to make 30 lattes with this blend!

Potluck Combo Set of Gochujang and Ssamjang

Tired of relying on the same rotation of seasonings and flavorings when cooking? Well, it's time to introduce your kitchen to Potluck's combo set of Gochujang and Ssamjang! They're sweet and spicy Korean pastes that'll help you create an excellent marinade to use on whatever light lunchmeal you're eating.

There are no additional sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives in these yummy tastes you'll be glad you discovered during AAPI month.

Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Crisp

If you're not familiar with Fly By Jing yet, now really is the time to find your new fave sauce! Founded by Jing Gao, she sought to reclaim her original name — instead of going by Jenny like she had for years — and introduce the flavors of her hometown (Chengdu) to others. This viral condiment comes in six different flavors, with the Sichuan Chili Crisp being the most popular. The other options you have are:

Muu Wearable Breast Pumps

Since Mother's Day should be everyday IMO, it wouldn't be right if I didn't include something for breastfeeding mamas. Founded by first-generation Korean-American Janice Gott, Muu is an affordable, mom-designed wearable breast pump that makes pumping easier. Although wireless breast pumps have become popular, this is another option if you're worried about whether you've charged it enough when you're on the go.

That's where rising AAPI product designer Tiffany Tao steps in. She specifically designed Muu to be hands and fuss-free so you can pump whenever you need to.

Have a board meeting to attend that coincides with your pumping schedule? Muu will be right there. Out with your friends and realize you're overdo for a pumping session? Muu will be in your purse ready to spring into action when you're in need.

What are your favorite AAPI brands to shop? Let us know in the comments!

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

Lead image via Copper Cow Coffee

This post has been updated.

Just like fantasy stories can transport us to new worlds, period dramas are one way to get a whole new (er, old) glimpse of the world you wouldn't see otherwise. Just like contemporary films, period dramas have their fair share of relationship drama and scandal, with some amazing outfits to boot. After you've watched (and rewatched) season 3 of Bridgerton, add one — or better yet, all — of these picks to your watchlist! Once you've figured out what you're pressing play on first, read up on why The Bridgerton Cast Is “Obsessed” With Claudia Jessie.

Atonement — Stream on Prime Video

Image via Universal Pictures

Every time I talk to my team here at Brit + Co about their favorite period dramas, Atonement always makes the list. And for good reason! It's an emotional, sweeping piece that feels like different genres as it moves from family drama to romance to a war epic. The cast includes names like Saoirse Ronan, James McAvoy, and Keira Knightley.

Little Women — Stream on Hulu

Image via Sony Pictures

Everyone can love this story, even if you don't have sisters — although being a sister has definitely made me love it even more. There are two versions I recommend: the 1994 version with Winona Ryder, Christian Bale, and Kirsten Dunst, or Greta Gerwig's 2019 version with Saoirse Ronan, Timothée Chalamet, and Emma Watson.

In my opinion, Greta's version is a little bit more thought-provoking for the viewer, but between both film's arcs, I prefer the 1994 film's linear structure. You can't go wrong with either movie, so why not watch both?

Emily — Stream on Paramount+ With Showtime

Image via Bleecker Street

My Letterboxd review after seeing Emily in theaters basically called this family the English, more tragic version of Little Women's March sisters. The celebration of creativity and identity feel even more powerful against the darker aesthetic and all of the painful experiences Emily Brontë lives through. Plus, it has one of the most emotional scores of 2023 that I've had on repeat ever since I watched it!

Mr. Malcolm's List — Stream on Paramount+ With Showtime

Image via Bleecker Street

When Julia Thistlewaite gets rejected by London's most eligible bachelor (the titular Mr. Malcolm), she decides to turn her friend into his ideal match, and get a little bit of revenge while she's at it. Anyone who loves Bridgerton's costumes (and Princess Diana's revenge dress) is gonna want to add this to their queue.

Pride & Prejudice — Rent on Amazon Prime

Image via Focus Features

Avid fans of Jane Austen's book (including yours truly) will likely give you two recommendations that each have their own viral scene: Colin Firth's lake diving in the 1995 BBC mini series or Matthew MacFadyen's hand flex after helping Keira Knightley into a carriage in the 2005 film. All jokes aside, both titles are wonderful celebrations of the story!

Belle — Stream on Max

Image via Searchlight Pictures

In this political, historical romance, Belle is the illegitimate, biracial daughter of a British admiral who's raised by her uncle. As she grows up alongside her cousin, Belle questions her identity as she realizes she belongs with neither the servants nor the family. And when she meets John, she becomes in integral part of the abolitionist movement in England.

Downton Abbey — Stream on Peacock

Image via PBS/NBC

If you love period pieces but prefer a slower pace, I'd recommend Downton Abbey. The stakes are high and some viewers still haven't gotten over the death of their favorite character (I'm talking about myself here), but I don't think it's as overstimulating as a lot of other dramas involving war, death, and relationships. Plus you literally CANNOT go wrong with Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess. The studio just announced a third movie, so now is the perfect time to start the series!

Becoming Jane — Rent on Amazon Prime

Image via Disney/Miramax

James McAvoy makes the list again with this semi-biographical film on Jane Austen's life. One of the best parts of any historical drama is when the main couple dances at a ball, and Becoming Jane has one of my favorite dances of all time. Fans of the author criticized the film when it came out, but if you go into it with an open mind, it's very enjoyable (and might just make you cry, too).

Marie Antoinette — Stream on Max

Image via Columbia Pictures

I finally watched Sofia Coppola's iconic film for the first time, and it was as much a feast for the eyes as I'd hoped. Kirsten Dunst stuns as the infamous queen, and in addition to the textured, maximalist visuals, the story did make me think about Marie Antoinette in a new way. Considering I've been obsessed with her since middle school, that's saying something!

Emma — Stream on Prime Video

Image via Focus Features

If you love the visuals in Marie Antoinette, then I'm pretty sure you'll love this 2020 Jane Austen retelling. Every detail of the movie feels like its own piece of art (even the physical blocking and movements of the actors feels like a dance), and they all come together to create something cohesive, beautiful, and fun. You can also go for Gwyneth Paltrow's 1996 version or Clueless, which was inspired by Austen's book.

Sense and Sensibility — Rent on Amazon Prime

Image via Columbia Pictures

With names like Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, and Hugh Grant, this movie has always felt wildly underrated, so consider this my official plea asking you to watch it. It's got everything: Family! Drama! True love! Taylor Swift also said during her Tribeca Film Festival talk in 2022 that it inspired her album Evermore, so there's that.

Why Didn't They Ask Evans? — Stream on BritBox

Image via BritBox

I love this miniseries so much that I watch it every year. At this point, it's a tradition! Lucy Boynton and Will Poulter are so fun together, and their banter will leave rom-com lovers giggling and kicking their feet. Plus the 1930s fashions are just SO good.

Let us know what your favorite period dramas are in the comments, and check out the 2024 Movies you can look forward to this year!

Lead image via Sony Pictures

This post has been updated.

After all of summer's daylong adventures spent outside in the heat, the very last thing you want to do is fire up the oven for dinner. These 15 light summer meals come to the rescue with fresh ingredients, minimal prep work and cook time, plus the perfect serving sizes so you don't feel weighed down one bit.

Niçoise Salad

Salads are perhaps the most expected light summer meals, but this one totally defies expectations by being packed with tons of nutritious goodies like tomatoes, green beans, olives, egg, and tuna. (via Brit + Co)

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers

The trick to making these gorgeous Mediterranean chicken skewers is letting the marinade, well, marinate for up to 24 hours. This period of letting the flavors soak in is the most labor-intensive part of this recipe – the actual grilling part will only last 10-12 minutes! Serve with some fresh veg to really get in the groove. (via Brit + Co)

Greek Salad

This no-cook salad makes the ultimate side dish for backyard get-togethers! It's bursting with flavor from crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, salty olives, and feta cheese. The tangy dressing is a simple mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper – all measured to your liking. (via Brit + Co)

Pineapple Al Pastor Tacos

Pineapple is the prime fruit for summer, so we'll take any excuse to incorporate it into our recipes! A strong, flavorful al pastor marinade generously coats some chicken before getting quickly grilled and layered with pineapple salsa in this light summer recipe. Goes exceptionally well with an ice-cold beer or tequila cocktails! (via Brit + Co)

California Black Bean Burgers

All you need to craft these uber-fresh (and way better than store-bought) veggie burgers is a food processor and the hearty mix of beans, grains, and spices. Forewarning, you will need to use the oven to cook 'em, albeit at a low temperature of 250°F. (via Brit + Co)

Vegan Chickpea Cranberry Lettuce Wraps

Sometimes chowing down on meat feels like too hard a chore, especially in the scorching-hot summer. That's where vegan recipes like this one come in! No cooking is required for the chickpea-cranberry filling that gets stuffed into crisp romaine wraps. These make an excellent light lunch or even mid-day snack! (via Brit + Co)

Honey-Lemon Chicken Thighs

Although these chicken thighs require a good amount of time in the skillet, you could easily save yourself the time and effort by meal prepping a ton of pieces to eat on throughout the week. The honey-lemon flavors are *not* to be missed, and once cooked, you can enjoy this protein hot or cold. (via Brit + Co)

Spring Mix Salad with Lemon Baked Tofu

This crunchy salad is topped with perhaps the tastiest baked tofu bits around. They get wonderfully seasoned with ginger, lemon, miso, mustard, and other spices, all while supplying a good serving of plant-based protein. The salad bed itself is also bulked up with quinoa, avocado, and edamame. (via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

If you're hungry for something a bit heartier, the Instant Pot can be a big helper in achieving satisfying summer meals since it's relatively hands-off. This one-pot pasta dish is pressure cooked to cheesy perfection for only 5 minutes, and delivers a delicious garlicky, umami-y flavor you'll wanna eat again and again. (via Brit + Co)

Watermelon Feta Mint Salad

Watermelon, cucumber, feta cheese, and fresh mint is an underrated combo that you just *have* to try out this season. This salad recipe makes a great side for any and all light summer meals, or you could simply serve it as the main course just as easily! (via The Edgy Veg)

Vegan Summer Rolls

Any food served in wrap form gets our stamp of approval, and these vegan rolls stuffed with miso-glazed tofu pieces and plenty of colorful veggies are simply ahh-mazing. They are also super adaptable based on you and your family's personal preferences. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Make some bomb Caesar salad, toss some freshly-cooked pasta in that bad boy, and boom – you've got yourself one of the easiest, tastiest light summer meals out there. You don't necessarily need to craft your own dressing, either, if you don't want to. Just go with the best store-bought stuff to save yourself some time this summer, and it'll be just as good! (via Completely Delicious)

Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

You certainly won't miss out on your daily serving of veggies with this Asian-inspired noodle salad! The best part is the carrots, radishes, and cabbage are all thinly sliced and julienned so they kind of hide in between and blend in with the egg noodles. The peanut sauce that drenches every inch of this dish is to die for. (via Vikalinka)

Quinoa, Cherry & Goat Cheese Salad

Recipes that have both savory and sweet elements to them are fantastic for switching up your usual meal routine. This summer-ready quinoa salad brimming with cherries, goat cheese, and mint is just the thing you need for a healthy and fun-to-eat lunch or dinner this season! (via Averie Cooks)

Tuscan Bean Salad

Bean salads are a nice summer lunch staple to hang onto since they're heavy on protein content. You won't need to turn on a single appliance to make this one that assumes the best Tuscan flavors – cannellini beans, tomatoes, parsley, and onion are tossed together and served with a perfectly zesty dressing. If you wish to bulk up your bite even more, consider adding sliced salami or diced chicken to the mix! (via Earthly Provisions)

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is worthy of any summer BBQs, potlucks, or dinner parties you have in the pipeline. It's definitely on the more filling side, but still light enough for the season since you can serve it cold. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

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Lead image via Crowded Kitchen.