11 Hair + Makeup Trends to Steal from Spring 2016 Bridal Fashion Week

On your wedding day, the aisle is basically your own personal version of a catwalk. And with all eyes on you, you’ll want to totally own it, so looking and feeling fab are key. You’ve already scored the perfect dress, so now it’s time to take a look at the finer details — like your makeup and hair. In need of some fresh inspiration? You’re in luck, because we’ve rounded up some of our favorite bridal beauty looks fresh off the Spring 2016 Bridal Fashion Week runway. Get ready to indulge in some seriously pretty stuff.

1. All Natural: With the dress, the veil and that killer pair of shoes, it might be tempting to go all out with the makeup too, but Jenny Packham, Amsale and Oscar de la Renta prove that sometimes less is more. Let your natural beauty shine through with a tinted moisturizer to keep skin hydrated, a light dusting of blush or bronzer, a swipe of mascara and a nude or pink lip. Pretty, pretty perfection. (Photos via Slaven Vlasic/Getty, Thomas Concordia/Getty)

2. Bohemian Locks: Romantic, boho vibes were running through more than one collection this season, with everyone from Houghton to Claire Pettibone and Jenny Packham showcasing flowy, ethereal gowns. To drive the look home, the hair had an equally free-wheelin’ look with locks worn long and loose, with the front portion pulled back on both sides. The addition of small braids and romantic waves added to the carefree yet totally feminine appeal of these gorgeous styles. (Photos via Thomas Concordia/Getty)

3. Retro Glam: Va-va-voom curls, look-at-me lips and classic cat eyes made an appearance at Badgley Mischka, Ines di Santo and Elizabeth Fillmore, evoking a sense of timeless, old Hollywood glamour without feeling too over the top. (Photos via Donald Bowers/Getty, Randy Brooke/Getty)

4. Prima Ballerina: For every bohemian style out on the runway, there was a sleek chignon to match. While Monique Lhuillier and Oscar de la Renta stayed true to their leanings toward elegant, polished styles, Ines di Santo ditched her go-to tousled, romantic tresses for put-together, ballerina-inspired buns. (Photos via Thomas Concordia/Getty, Jemal Countess/Getty, Slaven Vlasic/Getty)

5. White Out Eyes: Okay, so the whole powdered forehead thing at Houghton might be a bit much, but we like where the idea was going. A little white liner along the lids, like we saw at Marchesa, can really make eyes pop and is a refreshing step away from the traditional cat eye. We’re thinking a little glitter in there might finish the look off just right. (Photos via Thomas Concordia/Getty)

6. Whimsical Braids: There was something truly enchanting happening at Reem Acra this season — and we’re not just talking about the to-die-for gowns. Hair parted down the middle flowed into a single, cascading braid with shimmering beads and delicate pearls woven throughout. The style was a reinterpretation of the laissez-faire plaits that dominated runways last season, lending a whimsical, romantic vibe to each of the intricate and subtly sexy designs. (Photo via Randy Brooke/Getty)

7. Earthy Smoky Eyes: Smokey eyes aren’t just reserved for nights out. To make the dramatic look feel aisle-appropriate, take a note from the makeup at the Monique Lhuillier and Galia Lahav shows and trade out bold black and charcoal powders for earth tones and warm metallic hues. (Photos via Thomas Concordia/Getty, Thos Robinson/Getty)

8. All Out Volume: While the gowns and suits sent down the runway by Theia and Galia Lahav were eye-catching on their own, it was the over-the-top hair that really grabbed our attention. The ‘dos were modern twists on Victorian and Grecian styles, taking the elegant, romantic looks to the next level with some serious volume (trust us — there was a LOT of teasing going on backstage). (Photos via Bryan Bedder/Getty, Jemal Countess/Getty)

9. English Rose Glow: This soft, fresh-faced look is one that never seems to get old. And Carolina Herrera gets that, which is why she sent her girls down the catwalk with rosy cheeks, pretty pink lips and lightly lined eyes. The look plays up your natural beauty without feeling overdone. We’re thinking it would be perfect for a backyard garden wedding. (Photo via Randy Brooke/Getty)

10. Low, Loose Ponytails: Kelly Faetanini and Claire Pettibone gave their stamp of approval to the ponytail as an accompaniment to the iconic white (or black) dress. Low-lying interpretations with wispy stray strands at Claire Pettibone fit with the bohemian, country-inspired feel of the collection, while the styles at Faetanini’s show had a more polished, sophisticated edge with hair lightly swept back and fastened at the crown of the head. (Photos via Jemal Countess/Getty)

11. Contemporary Chignons: Marchesa’s Spring 2016 Collection is all about romance, but the hair tells a slightly different story. From the front, the style has a poised, polished feel with a sleek center part and what appears to be a classic bun. But on closer examination, the chignon reveals itself to be a contemporary loop-like coiffure, not unlike those half-finished ponytails we spotted during NYFW. This is the ‘do that trendsetting brides need to check off their sartorial to-do list. (Photos via Thomas Concordia/Getty)

How will you be wearing your hair and makeup for your wedding day? Tell us about your bridal style in the comments!

(Featured photo via Thomas Concordia/Getty)

It’s no secret that ’90s trends are back in a big way, and your wedding is the perfect occasion to display all your favorite throwbacks. We’re seeing updated takes on everything from matte lips and French braids to slip dresses and backpacks. And, in more subtle ways, all the things you love most about the ’90s are showing up — chalk it up to the older millennials doing weddings differently and looking back on their childhoods for inspiration. This is great news for brides, since ’90s style is iconic and unlike any other, and it offers the perfect way to make your wedding both stand out and feel a little retro. Whether you go big with an on-trend colorful wedding dress (or maybe save that for your bridesmaids’ dresses) or subtle with some butterfly clips in your hair, your wedding is about to get a big boost of personality and FUN!

1. Mini-Pop Tarts: Ok, while technically not limited to the ’90s, they were hugely popular back in the day. And judging by their continued popularity among basically everyone, these are a sure bet for adding some ’90s fun to your wedding. Mini ones like these on a stick are just too cute when stuck around the edge of a cake. Or skip the cake and arrange them on a stand for a fun and light dessert. (via Sweet Cheeks Baking Company)

2. Colorful Rock Candy: While we’re on the subject of sugar: ROCK CANDY! Customizable to any color(s) you like, gorgeous and equally appropriate in a garden picnic as a downtown loft, these are the answer to basically everything. Tie escort cards to them, lay them on the dinner napkins or arrange them on your dessert table for guests to grab and enjoy out on the dance floor. (via Jodi Miller Photography / Southern Weddings)

3. DIY Gemstone Gummies: They’re not exactly Gushers, but they’re close! These are an easy DIY that’s perfect for all your wedding events. Scatter them across a table for edible decor, put them in little bags as bridal shower favors or turn them into your own variation of RingPops with a Sour Straw. (via Swooned)

4. Echo and Laurel Butterfly Hair Pins ($35): These delicate gold-tone clips are anything but childish. Perfect for an outdoor wedding or even just the bride who loves the outdoors, these little beauties will catch the light of Golden Hour and make you look just like a Disney princess. Attach a few to your updo along your half-crown braid, or scatter them through your loose waves for an instant bit of whimsical sophistication.

5. Doc Martens: For the bride who loves flats and wants stability *and* style as she climbs a mountain to her beloved, consider this your go-card to bring out your favorite Docs! That little bit of black peeking out from under your dress will look fab, and you won’t risk twisting an ankle getting up any rocks for those killer couples photos. (via Ash Durham / The Knot)

6. DesignB London Disc Choker ($17): A delicate choker is a sweet and oh-so-on-trend way to set off your look. A metallic finish makes it just formal enough and appropriate to wear with even the fanciest wedding dress. This one works for literally every style of dress — the simple spheres are bold enough to accessorize an architectural satin, yet subtle enough not to take away from some show-stopping lace. Pair it with a sweetheart or halter neckline for an even more direct nod to the ’90s.

7. Girl Talk Bobbi Pins ($14): Watch how fast your girls swoop their bangs to the side with these little bad boys! Hair accessories were huge in the ’90s, and these pins are a fun way to make them current and totally wearable now. Bonus points if you let your ‘maids wear them to the wedding.

8. Carvela Groove Pink Embellished Block Heel Sandals ($178): These are basically the perfect wedding shoes. The blush color is totally on trend and works with any color dress, the ankle straps keep you secure, the block heels are both totally sturdy and have that ’90s flair and the rhinestones encourage you to really kick up those heels! Toss your backup flats to the side — you can comfortably wear these all day and night.

9. Black Leather Jacket Cover Up: How does the alternative bride keep warm and show off her distinct style? By throwing her favorite leather jacket on over her dress, of course! This look is so effortless and reminds us that a classic is a classic, whether it’s a lace dress or a leather jacket. Arrange your hair to boost the vibe you’re going for: a sleek top-knot for an editorial look, a low and loose bun for minimalist elegance or a tousled braid for boho dreaminess. (via Pascal Shirley / You Are The River)

10. A Slip Wedding Dress: It doesn’t get any more iconic than a slinky slip dress for channeling ’90s style. Feel like Kate Moss when you pair this simply stunning number with loose, textured hair, minimal jewelry and an organic bouquet. (via Vera Wang)

11. Christian Louboutin Miluna 100 Neon Patent Leather-Trimmed Slingback Pumps ($795): Neon looks insanely cool among all those bridal tones of white. Pair your cool bridal pantsuit or tea-length dress with neon accents like these shoes to bring some serious attention to your walk (or should we say ‘strut’?) down the aisle.

12. Bridesmaid slip dresses: Your best girls’ jaws will drop when you tell them they get to look this good. You may have to even convince them not to wear the dresses before the wedding. Go with a shiny fabric for a more classic glam look, or lighten it up with pastels or prints for a look that’s easy and cool as can be. (via The Yes Girls)

13. Grown Up Friendship Bracelets: Give your bridesmaids a gift they’ll love (and actually wear). These bracelets are an easy DIY and are the perfect complement to any outfit. Customize them with specific colors for every girl for added appreciation of all your amazing friends. Or buck tradition and make them together during your weekend bachelorette party. (via The Good Stuff)

14. A Dark Lip: We know you didn’t buy Kylie Jenner’s lip kit in every color (admit it) only to go with a neutral no-makeup look on your wedding day. If your vibe is vampy, own it! Paired with flowing locks and glowing skin, it’ll add just the right amount of drama and edge to your wedding-day look. (via Flower Shack Blooms)

15. PaperTruly Cootie Catcher Invitations ($7 per sample): Don’t worry — your muscle memory will kick in and you’ll definitely remember how to make these. They’re fun, unique and super versatile for all your wedding needs. Use them as invitations, ceremony programs or even seating cards — just don’t be surprised when everyone’s distracted during the welcome speech, or if sudden new romances blossom right at your reception!

16. How to Break Dance Decal ($30): Wallflowers? Not when you have this decal on your dance floor. Stand back and watch everyone’s inner B-Boy and B-Girl come out. Be sure to include ’90s hits on your playlist too to really give everyone their chance to shine on that dance floor.

17. Slap Bracelet Wedding Favors: Finally, a favor that everyone will get to enjoy! Slap some of these puppies on and let loose when a vintage Mariah Carey hit comes on. It’s even DIYable for as much customization as your heart desires. (via Spoonflower)

18. Ring Pop Favor Boxes ($98, 100 boxes): The only favor that could beat the slap bracelets is an edible one. You can use Ring Pops for literally every wedding event: Pop the question to your bridesmaids or use them as cake toppers or even shower favors. They’re also a handy substitute in case the Best Man forgets the rings.

Feeling creative? Mix and match trends from then and now to create a look that reflects your style today. Check us out on Pinterest for more ’90s wedding inspiration!

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

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's relationship has captivated us throughout the years. Their story has love, family, loss, and of course, royalty. But how did the Duke and Duchess of Sussex come to be the powerful, independent couple they are today? Here's everything we know about the pair's relationship timeline, starting from the first time they met!

Mike Coppola / Getty Images for 2022 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Gala

July 2016: Meghan and Harry meet

After initially meeting on Instagram (a classic plot point for 21st century relationships), Meghan and Harry met for a first date in London.

“I was scrolling through my feed and someone who was a friend had this video of the two of them [and Meghan], it was like a Snapchat,” Harry said of is digital introduction to Meghan in the Harry & Meghan Netflix docuseries. He remembers asking himself, "Who is that?"

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

November 2016: Meghan and Harry reveal they are officially dating

It was an official statement from Kensington Palace that confirmed Meghan and Harry's relationship.

At the time, Meghan faced mass amounts of sexist and racist backlash through the media for her association with the royal family. Kensington Palace denounced the hate in a statement:

“Some of this has been very public — the smear on the front page of a national newspaper; the racial undertones of comment pieces; and the outright sexism and racism of social media trolls and Web article comments,” the statement read. “Some of it has been hidden from the public — the nightly legal battles to keep defamatory stories out of papers; her mother having to struggle past photographers in order to get to her front door; the attempts of reporters and photographers to gain illegal entry to her home and the calls to police that followed; the substantial bribes offered by papers to her ex-boyfriends; the bombardment of nearly every friend, coworker, and loved one in her life.”

Despite the hate, Meghan and Harry persevered as a couple.

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

September 2017: Meghan shines a light on her relationship with Harry

Meghan revealed even more information about her connection with Harry in a Vanity Faircover story in September 2017.

“We’re a couple. We’re in love,” she told Vanity Fair. “I’m sure there will be a time when we have to come forward and present ourselves, and have stories to tell, but I hope what people will understand is that this is our time. This is for us. It’s part of what makes it so special, that it’s just ours. But we’re happy. Personally, I love a great love story.”

Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation

November 2017: Meghan and Harry are engaged

Meghan officially moved to London in the fall of 2017 and the couple announced their engagement not long after.

Harry proposed to Meghan at Nottingham Cottage on the grounds of Kensington Palace with a ring made from two of Princess Diana's diamonds, and she said "yes" on the spot!

An official statement from the palace detailed their engagement further:

“His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince Harry to Ms. Meghan Markle,” it read. “His Royal Highness and Ms. Markle became engaged in London earlier this month. Prince Harry has informed Her Majesty The Queen and other close members of his family. Prince Harry has also sought and received the blessing of Ms. Markle's parents.”

Meghan recalled the moment Harry proposed on the Harry & Meghan Netflix docuseries:

“He’s down on one knee and I was like, ‘Yes!’ I was so joyful and excited. I was like, ‘Ah we’re doing this."

Ben Birchall / Getty Images

May 2018: Meghan and Harry’s wedding

Meghan and Harry got married at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. They admitted a few years later that they had actually exchanged vows three days before they walked down the aisle, for the sake of privacy.

“No one knows that,” Meghan said in an interview with Oprah Winfrey. “We called the archbishop and just said, look, this thing, this spectacle is for the world, but we want our union between us, so the vows that we have framed in our room are just the two of us in our backyard with the archbishop of Canterbury.”

Millions of people tuned in for their televised wedding ceremony on May 19, 2018.

October 2018: Meghan announced her first pregnancy

On October 15, 2018, Kensington Palace released a statement informing the public that Meghan and Harry were expecting their first child the following spring.

The news broke while Meghan and Harry were on a 16-day royal tour through Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand. The pair returned home and settled in at Windsor Castle's Frogmore Cottage to start prepping for the baby.

Dominic Lipinski / Getty Images

May 2019: Meghan and Harry welcome their first child

The couple welcomed their first son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, on May 6, 2019."We are pleased to announce that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their firstborn child in the early morning on May 6th, 2019. Their Royal Highnesses’ son weighs 7lbs. 3oz," an Instagram post from @sussexroyal read. "The Duchess and baby are both healthy and well, and the couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives."

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

January 2020: The couple steps back from their roles in the royal family

After "many months" of deliberation, Meghan and Harry had decided to "transition" from the royal family in early 2020.

In an official statement, they shared their plans to step back as ‘senior’ members of the royal family, become financially independent from Her Majesty, and split time between the United States and United Kingdom.

"This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity," the statement read. "We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties."

They moved to the U.S. a couple months later, staying in Montecito, California until they bought a home in Santa Barbara in the summer of 2020.

November 2020: Meghan announced she had a miscarriage with her second child

Meghan admitted she experienced a miscarriage with her second pregnancy, writing in a vulnerable New York Times op-ed essay that the loss of her second pregnancy with Prince Harry felt like “an almost unbearable grief.”

“I knew, as I clutched my firstborn child, that I was losing my second,” Meghan wrote. “Hours later, I lay in a hospital bed, holding my husband’s hand. I felt the clamminess of his palm and kissed his knuckles, wet from both our tears. Staring at the cold white walls, my eyes glazed over. I tried to imagine how we’d heal.”

March 2021: Interview with Oprah

The couple sat down for a very candidinterview with Oprah in March 2021, coming clean on multiple topics that had arose since living in the public eye. From Meghan’s mental health to the dynamic of the royal family – including the racism Meghan had experienced since becoming a member – they spoke honestly.

Yui Mok / Getty Images

June 2021: Meghan and Harry welcome their daughter, Lilibet

The pair publicly announced their second pregnancy in February 2021, welcoming their daughter, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten Windsor, a few months later.

Lilibet was born on June 4, 2021 in Santa Barbara, California.

Kirsty O'Connor / Getty Images

June 2022: Meghan and Harry attend the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Meghan and Harry headed to Buckingham Palace for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, marking their first joint appearance in the U.K. in over two years at that point.

The two weren’t publicly mingling with other senior royalty in attendance, though they reportedly introduced Lilibet to the Queen in private during their trip.

"They aren't part of the [working] royal family anymore, and that's a decision they have taken — but maybe [the public] hasn't quite accepted that yet," a source close to the couple told Peoplein 2022. "Yes, they were low-key. They paid their respects and went home."

September 2022: Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral

Meghan and Harry were called to Windsor Castle on September 8, 2022, shortly after Queen Elizabeth II passed away at age 96.

They briefly reunited with Kate Middleton and Prince William to support the royal family amid the news. According to Kensington Palace, the rare meeting was actually William's idea, with a source noting that it "was an important show of unity at an incredibly difficult time for the family."

Sascha Schuermann / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation

December 2022: The Harry & Meghan docuseries drops

The first volume Meghan & Harry Netflix docuseries hit screens on December 8, 2022. The pair addressed their full love story, their new family, and dived deeper on their reasons for distancing from the royal family in the three-part series.

Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images

March 2023: Meghan and Harry were told to leave their royal residence in the U.K.

Meghan and Harry were asked to “vacate” Frogmore Cottage in the spring of 2023.

"We can confirm The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been requested to vacate their residence at Frogmore Cottage," a spokesperson for the couple's Archewell Foundation told People.

Andrew Chin / Getty Images

January 2024: The truth comes to light about Queen Elizabeth’s blessing for Meghan and Harry’s daughter’s name

An inside source disputed the claim that the late Queen Elizabeth had not given Meghan and Harry her blessing to name their daughter after her known nickname, Lilibet.

“Meghan and Harry 100 percent got permission from the queen to use the name Lilibet,” the insider said. “The report is not true. [Harry and Meghan] don’t know where this is coming from...They’re shocked that this is coming now; it seems out of nowhere and out of left field. They just feel like it’s more of the same spear campaign that continues against them.”

Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation

March 2024: Meghan and Harry were in Austin, Texas for SXSW

Meghan was slated to speak on a South by Southwest panel for International Women’s Day 2024, so she and Harry traveled to Austin, Texas.

While they were in Austin, the couple had a date night at Soho House Austin.

“They were happy and in great spirits,” an eyewitness told People. “Harry was very animated throughout the dinner. They were super low key and seemed happy to be around the upbeat vibes at the lively venue.”

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Lead photo by Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation.

We hear congratulations are in order!

We also hear that you can't even think about your wedding without involving and honoring the people who have shaped you and your romantic relationship, because sometimes it takes a darn village. If you've chosen those whom you'd like to have by your side on your big day, you're ready to ask them to join you, ideally in a fashion that harks to your friendship. Get inspired by one of these ideas that, yes, we promised are all under $100, but — surprise! — actually top out at $75.

Bridesmaid Proposal Cookie Dough 6 Pack ($75)

Before you ask, yes, this stuff is 100% safe to eat, and your pals' tastebuds will be 100% on board with that.

Casamigos Tequila Bridesmaid Gift Label ($8)

Slap a custom label on a bottle that will more than earn its place on their bar cart.

Will You Be My Bridesman Candle ($20)

Available for bridesmen and bridesmaids alike (we love to see it!), one of these candles will light up their day.

Custom Embroidered Denim Name Jacket ($52+)

It's never too early to get started on those bachelorette party outfits, my friends.

Bridesmaids Proposal Macarons ($25)

We're taking bets that the recipients' responses to these chic macarons will be "mais oui!"

Be My Bridesmaid Personalized Wine ($59)

Who could say no to a custom-made bottle of full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon grown in Paso Robles, California? No one, that's who.

Bridesmaid Proposal Puzzle ($9+)

Even for those who did a lot of puzzles during quarantine, this one's a standout.

Friends Bridesmaid Mug ($24+)

If you've wished that your crew could hang at Central Perk and exchanged frantic texts over the Friends reunion special, this just fits.

Bridesmaid Socks ($7+)

The label says it perfectly: "My wedding would sock without you."

Will You Be My Bridesmaid 3-Piece Candy Bento Box ($28)

This expressive three-pack of champagne- and strawberry-flavored candies is the sweetest touch.

Funny Bridesmaid Proposal Card ($4, was $5)

You're going to need a hefty dose of humor to make it to the wedding day, so why not start now?

Bridal Shower Makeup Bag Set of 8 ($26)

Let them consider this the official welcome to your wedding team.

Disney Bridesmaid Shirts ($21+)

If you're planting the seed for a bachelorette at Disney, well, we don't blame you.

Bridesmaid Wine Tumbler ($13)

Remind them to tote these tumblers to the bachelorette, the wedding weekend, and any and all other bride-tribe activities.

Wedding Team Hand Cream (6-Pack) ($20)

It's going to be all hands on deck sooner or later, so you might as well get on the prep now.

Team Bride Hair Ties ($8)

You're tying the knot; they're tying up their hair. It just makes sense!

Fuzzy Bridesmaids Slide Slippers ($12, was $20)

These fuzzy slippers will no doubt make for some adorable getting-ready photos.

How did you propose to your bridesmaids? Tell us about it @BritandCo.

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Taylor Swift loves to reference the past in her songs. Every new album adds another layer to a whole web of lore (as the kids say), and The Tortured Poets Department is no different! There are enough pop culture references to to keep you glued to Google for the whole weekend, which is why I read every single lyric to decode each movie and literary reference so you don't have to! Keep reading for the full scoop from our fearless leader: The Chairman of the Department ;).

Literary References In The Tortured Poets Department

Image via engin akyurt/Unsplash

Down Bad — "Did You Take All My Old Clothes, Just To Leave Me Here, Naked And Alone"

While "Down Bad" feels like a reference to aliens, it's also reminding us of the story of Adam and Eve, who were left naked in the Garden of Eden after eating the Fruit of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. The "experiments" Taylor Swift references in the first verse (plus the "Fortnight" music video) are also giving Mary Shelley/Frankenstein!

Image via Amazon

So Long, London — "You Left Me At The House By The Heath"

Hampstead Heath is a beautiful area of London that reportedly inspired C.S. Lewis to write The Chronicles of Narnia in the late 30s and early 40s. As Narnia's self-proclaimed biggest fan, I'm totally claiming this indirect literary reference, especially since the Pevensies have to stay at the Professor's house when they're evacuated from London.

Image via Amazon

I Hate It Here — "I Hate It Here So I Will Go To Secret Gardens In My Mind People Need A Key To Get To"

This Taylor Swift song is all about wishing she was somewhere else during an early period of her life, and referencing The Secret Garden makes total sense. In the book, lead character Mary has to access the Secret Garden to discover the hope, joy, and healing she's lost.

Image via İlknur ERDURAN/Pexels

thanK you aIMee — "I Pushed Each Boulder Up The Hill"

This seems to be another Greek mythology reference, this time to Sisyphus. He was forced by the gods to roll a boulder up a hill — and then do it again when it rolled back down. Considering this song seems to reference Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, and the drama that led to Reputation, it feels like a reference to the feud that rears its head over and over again.

Image via Robin Erino/Pexels

Cassandra — "So They Killed Cassandra First Cause She Feared The Worst And Tried To Tell The Town"

In Greek mythology, Cassandra (whose name means "she who entangles men," FYI) was a beautiful woman, and princess of Troy. The god Apollo falls in love with her, and gives her the power of prophecy — that is, until she rejects him and he turns the gift into a curse where no one believes her anymore.

Image via Amazon

The Bolter — "She Fell Through The Ice, Then Came Out Alive"

This is another indirect literary reference I'm claiming that totally reminds me of Amy March from Little Women. Amy falls through the ice when the March sisters are all children living in Massachusetts. Fans have historically hated her character, which is tied to the "A curious child, ever reviled // By everyone except her own father" lyric.

Movie References In Taylor Swift's New Album

Image courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures

My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys — "I Felt More When We Played Pretend Than With All The Kens"

The internet has claimed Taylor Swift as the real-world version of Barbie, and after last year's blockbuster hit (and Taylor referencing Ken in "Hits Different") we get another nod to our favorite doll. Plus, this song reminds me of Syd from Toy Story destroying his toys, and "he was my best friend down at the sandlot" got me thinking about The Sandlot. So many movie references, so little time!

Image via Michele K Short/Sony

Guilty As Sin? — "How Can I Be Guilty As Sin?"

Taylor Swift wrote "Carolina" for the book-to-movie adaptation of Where The Crawdads Sing. In "Carolina," she sings that Kya's community has "said that I was guilty as sin and sleep in a liar’s bed.”

More Pop Culture References

Image via Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images

  • The Tortured Poets Department — Taylor Swift mentions poet & writer Dylan Thomas, singer-songwriter & poet Patti Smith, and American singer Charlie Puth, boygenius singer Lucy Dacus, producer Jack Antonoff.
  • But Daddy I Love Him — This is a line in both The Little Mermaid and The Notebook.
  • Florida!!! — Florence Welch is featured on this song, which mentions a hurricane. Florence + The Machine has a song titled "Hurricane Love."
  • Guilty As Sin? — Taylor also references "The Downtown Lights" by The Blue Nile, as well as the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus in The Bible.
  • Who's Afraid Of Little Old MeWho's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf revolves around a bitter and aging couple who weaponize the youth of their guests against one another.
  • loml — "The coward claimed he was a lion" is a reference to The Wizard of Oz, while "Mr. Steal Your Girl" is a Trey Songz track.
  • I Can Do It With A Broken Heart — This whole song is about Taylor Swift's Eras Tour.
  • The Alchemy + The Prophecy — In Taylor Swift's TIME interview, she references Harry Potter, which has huge themes around alchemy and prophecies.
  • Clara Bow — This song references Clara Bow, Stevie Nicks, and Taylor herself!
  • So High School — Taylor Swift Mentions video game Grand Theft Auto, Artistotle, and American Pie. She also mentions games like Kiss Marry Kill, Truth or Dare, and Spin the Bottle

Which of these pop culture references in The Tortured Poets Department is your favorite? Check out the latest news on the album here!

Lead image via Amazon

Hearty dinner recipes are always going to be high on our list, but spring and summer tend to call for light lunch ideas to keep us energized and able to enjoy longer hours of sunshine everyday. I'll be the first to say that eating chicken pasta or pizza for lunch often makes me feel sluggish, so I try to stay away from them during the work day. Not only that, but I've noticed I feel better when I eat something that's a little fresher and healthier. If your summer plans include having as much energy as possible, here's 15 light lunch ideas to help you successfully get through your days!

Light Lunch Ideas: Tasty Salads

Chicken Tzatziki Avocado Salad

Light lunch ideas don't have to be tasteless just because they don't cause you to feel sleepy in the middle of the day. One of the best ways to enjoy something tasty is to make a Mediterranean dish. This chicken tzatziki avocado salad is full of season, roasted chicken, feta, kale, and creamy tahini sauce. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Roasted Golden Beet Salad with Farro

This recipe had us at goat cheese! If you haven't had a chance to try it yet, this roasted golden beet salad with farro is a great way to introduce it to your palate. It also features shallots, thyme, and honey to balance out the crunch you'll get from the almonds! (via Brit + Co)

Chicken Cobb Salad

Add this chicken cobb salad your list of non-complicated light lunch ideas! It's full of tasty ingredients like avocados, cherry tomatoes, and eggs that'll hit the spot during lunchtime. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry and Asparagus Salad with Chicken

Your salad needs an upgrade that involves lightweight fruit like strawberries. You can always exclude the chicken if you've been eating a meatless diet. (via Completely Delicious)

Feta Green Goddess Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken

We're not sure who made this rule but pasta salad just seems to be one of the light lunch ideas that works extremely well for summer. This recipe features a homemade green goddess dressing that lightly covers the delicious ingredients, making it one of our favorite meals. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Smashed Potato Spring Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing

We love that this smashed potato spring salad can be eaten during summer. The Creamy lemon dressing complements the butter lettuce, asparagus, and green onions that you'll happily devour. (via Two Peas and Their Pod)

Simple Cold Pasta Salad

Simple light lunch ideas are the stuff that our summer dreams are made of. After all, meals like this cold pasta salad are great alternatives if you're truly looking for something quick and lightweight. (via Barley and Sage)

Summer Sesame Noodles

Is it a salad or noodle dish? Maybe it's both! One thing we know is that you'll get a ton of healthy vegetables and noodles drizzled in a sauce that has sesame paste, vinegar, and more! (via Gastro Plant)

Light Lunch Ideas: Creative Sandwiches, Tacos, and Wraps 

Breakfast Bagel Sandwich with Smoked Salmon

Skipped breakfast? It happens to the best of us! Make up for it during lunch with this breakfast bagel sandwich with smoked salmon. Our mouths are already craving the herbed cream cheese that's on it. (via Vikalinka)

Smoked Turkey Sandwich with Spicy Mayo

Craving a smoked turkey sandwich that has a kick to it? Make this dish for lunch, but don't forget to bring something soothing to drink that'll help counter the mayo's spiciness! (via The Original Dish)

Tasty Tacos

Tacos Rancheros

This is technically another breakfast meal, but we like to think that some meals can double as light lunch ideas! This is a great option if you have to eat lunch early. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Kale Chicken Caesar Wraps

You've never had chicken caesar like this before. The dressing doesn't have a ton of calories so you'll get to eat something that's healthy and yummy! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Light Lunch Ideas: Veggies

Garlic Parmesan Zucchini

Our mouths are watering looking at this garlic parmesan zucchini dish! The fresh garlic and parmesan make for a dish that's full of hearty flavors without making you feel sluggish. (via The Endless Meal)

Mediterranean Sweet Potatoes

Although these aren't considered sweet potato boats, you can think of them that way thanks to their shape. The spicy chickpeas in the center offset the sweetness of the sweet potatoes while the feta adds a lightweight flavor. (via Cozy Cravings)

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl

This roasted vegetable quinoa bowl is one of the best light lunch ideas we've come across and it's gluten-free! Not only does it feature sweet potatoes, but you'll also get to savor juicy yellow squash! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Follow us on Pinterest for more light lunch ideas to cook this summer!

Lead image via Vanilla and Bean