Will you rock one of these next-level lip looks this Halloween? Tell us @BritandCo!
Taylor Swift may be known for giving us hits like "Cruel Summer" and "Bad Blood," but fans also know her look isn't complete without red lipstick. Whether she's onstage performing, accepting an award, or supporting her boyfriend Travis Kelce at the Chief's games, her smudge-proof red lips are always in attendance. Although it may not seem like much, seeing her rock a bold shade reignited my love for bold makeup. But, I'd be lying if I said it was easy to remember makeup hacksthat'll help others find the best red lip stick for their complexion.
To help me get back on the right track, I reached out to the clever author Candice Brathwaite-Aboderin about her signature lip. Aside from having an appealing sense of style and an unforgettable way with words, her signature red lipstick also captures my attention whenever she wears it. She usually wears Fenty Beauty's Fenty Icon Velvet Liquid Lipstick in "The MVP" or Trish McEvoy in Red with MAC Cosmetics Nighmoth lip liner.
She said, "Funny enough, the inspiration behind wearing red lipstick was to be defiant. It had often been said that black women, particularly dark skinned black women, didn’t look good in red lipstick. I had already bucked the trend by shaving my head way before we knew who Amber Rose was so this felt no different."
Her decision to create a contrast that has a "perfect frame" for her lips is also intentional. "The idea to wear a darker lipliner (which creates an ombré effect) was definitely rooted in my love for 90’s hip hop and dancehall culture. All the female artists of that time leaned on a darker lipliner with a truck load of gloss on top," said Candice. Besides that, she prefers the way the lip liner helps her favorite shades not to look harsh on her.
Even though she and Taylor Swift have cracked the code for their complexions, we both know it's still not easy to find a shade you may love. To help simplify things, I spoke with veteran makeup artist and founder of premium makeup brush brand Artis(yes!) Matthew Waitesmith so you can find the best red lipstick that suits you. Also, keep reading to learn every shade Taylor Swift swears by!
What should I consider when looking for red lipstick?
Image via Sam Lion/Pexels
As the former VP of Artist Training and Development at MAC Cosmetics with consult work for Kiehl's, Lancôme, Nars, and La Mer, Matthew knows a thing or two about creating makeup looks that are specifically formulated different complexions. He said there are two things to consider when searching for the best red lipstick. "One is the value [lightness or deepness] of your skin's pigmentation. And the other consideration is the natural undertones occurring in your skin color.
The value of your skin is important to consider since how color looks is dependent on surrounding [colors]."
Matthew noted that a good example of this is by thinking about how the color blue may look different depending on the shade next to it. "...blue will look different if it is surrounded by a pale beige compared to a rich brown. The blue is the same, but it looks different because the surrounding colors influence how you see it in contrast."
What red lipstick does Taylor Swift wear?
Image via Patrick Smith / Staff / Getty Images Sport
There's been speculations about the exact shade of red lipstick Taylor Swift has been wearing to the Chief's game, but it can be argued that one of her favorite shades is by none other than makeup artist Pat McGrath. This is partly due to McGrath sharing how she made Taylor's "Bejeweled" music video looks come to life an interview with E! News last year. She said, "When I think of Taylor, I always think of a perfect red lip...I couldn't imagine not doing something with red lipstick."
Although the Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLUST: Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick in Elson is currently sold out, here's a few more of Taylor Swift's red lipstick picks as shared by Pop Sugar:
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil "Dragon Girl"
Tips For Finding The Best Red Lipstick For Every Complexion:
Deeper Complexions
Image via Photo by Adrienne Andersen/Pexels
Contrary to what some may believe, deeper skin complexions are able to wear color well — including red lipstick. Matthew said, "A Person with a deep skin color value will be able to wear lots of different colors of red due to all the rich colors and undertones that surround the red lips."
Brit + Co's Best Red Lipstick For Deeper Complexions
MAC Cosmetics Ruby Woo (Taylor Swift's Fave)
This is the first shade of red lipstick I wore when I was granted permission to wear something bold. It definitely attracted a lot of attention in 2011, but I didn't care. I wore it every chance I got and purchased this many times over during my early 20s.
The Lip Bar Vegan Matte Liquid Lipstick "Bawse Lady"
This is another beautiful shade for darker complexions that's not as bold as Ruby Woo. The color payoff is amazing and it doesn't budge as much.
NaChé Cosmetics Liquid Matte Lipstick "Ruby"
In an effort for those with a deeper complexion to not feel excluded from wearing red lipstick, educator NaChé Thompson decided to create a shade that felt inclusive. Named after grandmother, she said "The right touch of blue makes Ruby the epitome of the perfect red lipstick to complement a wide range of skin tones. You can wear [Ruby] for up to nine solid hours without needing to reapply, and it defies the norm of dry and crusty matte lipsticks."
I've had a chance to wear it and find that the creamy texture is almost irresistible!
Medium & Olive Complexions
Image via Sephora
People with this complexion "generally have warm undertones that include golden or yellow as a part of the skin color composition. So, they should pick a red that includes them," said Matthew. He also indicated that medium complexions can include an olive undertone and that reds with warm undertones — like coral or even warm pink — will work for them.
Brit + Co's Best Red Lipstick For Medium & Olive Complexions
Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Cream Lipstick "Inspire"
Also known as Selena Gomez's favorite shade, "Inspire" is a bright-red that's hydrating despite it's matte finish. It literally glides onto the lips where it sits comfortably throughout the day.
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick "Red Carpet Red"
Long before we know of Shonda Rhimes' Queen Charlotte, Ms. Tilbury was the one we bowed down to. Her matte revolution lipstick is considered a community favorite on Sephora and features the glorious "Red Carpet Red" shade that just looks like it belongs on the lips.
Tom Ford Lip Color Matte Lipstick "Flame"
If you want to cause a commotion, you'll reach for Tom Ford's "Flame" matte lipstick. It's a bright red-orange that complements medium complexions like no other.
Lighter Complexions
Image via Sephora
Patrick TA's Major Headlines Matte Suede Lipstick in "That's Why She's Late" Cherry Red
On other hand, Matthew said, "A lighter skin person needs to be more thoughtful about picking a red that plays nicely with the subtle undertones — pink or cool — of their skin. Choosing a red that includes neutral/pink or cool undertones will look like it belongs on the skin."
Brit + Co's Best Red Lipstick For Fair Complexions
Armani Beauty Lip Power Long Lasting Lipstick "400 Four Hundred"
While this can be considered a universal red lipstick, "400 Four Hundred" looks like it was made for fairer complexions. It's comfortable enough to wear all day and will give you a nice pout.
Yves Saint Laurent Tatouage Couture Velvet Cream Matte Liquid Lipstick "N12 Rouge Rebel"
Rev up the drama with this rebellious shade of red lipstick by Yves Saint Laurent. It's made without parabens or sulfates, so you won't have to fret about harsh chemicals on your lips!
bareMinerals Mineralist Hydra-Smoothing Lipstick "Inspiration"
What's full of hydrating ingredients that don't skimp on rich color? This shade by bareMinerals that's set to become the best red lipstick for your fair complexion.
Matthew's Final Piece Of Advice
Image via Sephora
Lastly, Matthew said, "...the best final step is to try several reds on, and at look at the resulting color in natural daylight to see if the red plays nicely with your skin color." He doesn't believe there's ever a "wrong" red, but feels that there are reds that can blend in better with your skin.
"Either way, red is a great way to bring attention to your look and get reactions, "he said. In other words, have fun finding the best red lipstick that complements your complexion and don't be afraid to be bold!
If you've found the best red lipstick you swear by, let us know in the comments! Shop more of our favorite products in our Amazon storefront!
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Image via Photo by Adrienne Andersen/Pexels
This post has been updated.
College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!
Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers
Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.
Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle
Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!
A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia
This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.
Stanley Quencher H2.0
Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.
Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag
If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.
2024 Daily Planner
Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.
Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier
This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.
Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet
Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.
The Beast Mini Blender
This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.
Béis The Sport Backpack
Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.
Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs
These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.
Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck
For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!
Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
Coffee will always be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.
Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers
Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.
Great Jones The Starting Lineup
This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.
Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!
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 with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
ICYMI, we live for Halloween. All year we look forward to pumpkin decorating, costume DIYing, and trick-or-treating. But, most of all, we’re *always* on the hunt for unique and innovative ideas to slay our favorite October holiday. Lucky for us, sometimes all we need is playfully dramatic Halloween makeup to really pull a look together. Scroll on for 70 of our favorite original Halloween makeup ideas — ranging from easy-to-achieve to jaw-droppingly advanced — and prepare to take your disguise to the next post-worthy level.
Pop Art Makeup
Channel your inner Warhol with a creative take on an iconic art movement. (via Brit + Co)
Bowie Emojis
Pair an Aladdin Sane lightning bolt with your own karaoke version of “Ziggy Stardust” for a Halloween costume that’s sure to turn heads. (via Brit + Co)
Jungle Cat
Definitely not for the intro level makeup artist, but major makeup #goals. RAWRR. (via Brit + Co)
Wonder Woman
It’s your turn to become the feminist-friendly box-office sensation that we all need. (via Brit + Co)
Shepard Fairey Painting
A tribute to Obama is always worthwhile in our book, especially when it’s this creative.
Jem
Clearly, we are as obsessed with ’80s cartoon characters as we are with Halloween makeup. Light pink hair, a simple star, and a bold pink pout will bring your Jem look to life. (via Brit + Co)
Chill
Go crazy with all the blues to nail the icy half of everyone’s favorite Netflix and chill costume. (via Brit + Co)
Madame D from Grand Budapest Hotel
Even though Madame D isn’t in the film for long, we quickly fell in love with her — especially her style. This elderly makeup look may seem tricky, but you can totally handle it! (via Brit + Co)
Jellyfish
Not only will you look like one of the most magical sea creatures to exist, but you’ll be protected from the rain if the sky decides to open up too. (via Brit + Co)
Witch Makeup For Halloween
The OG Halloween costume. Use a little green face paint accented with mossy contouring and a purple lip to get witchy with it in no time. (via Brit + Co)
Half Sugar Skull
Go halfsies on your DIY sugar skull so you don’t have to worry about keeping it symmetrical. Add your favorite lip color and a creative costume for a memorable look. (via Brit + Co)
Robot
You don’t have to wear a spooky costume for Halloween shenanigans; there are getups that can be pretty and a little creepy, too. Take this colorful robot, for example. It blends equal parts artsy beauty with the futuristic fierceness that is sure to get the party talking. (via Brit + Co)
Clown Makeup
A creepy clown has always been a go-to Halloween costume, but this year, why not put a creative, colorful spin on it? Featuring pops of bright blue, lime green, and hot pink, makeup artist Fernanda Machado’s original creation achieves those spooky, artistic vibes you’re longing to channel. (via Brit + Co)
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
They fight crime. They eat pizza. They’re named after Italian Renaissance artists. They’re Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! And, let’s face it, they’re the coolest reptile warriors in town. (via Brit + Co)
Zombie Makeup
As much as we love channeling our inner Wonder Woman, pulling off a slightly gorier zombie costume presents the Halloween makeup challenge we crave. Here we’ve created an approachable zombie makeup tutorial so you can still feel like a babe while staying true to the holiday’s spooky vibe. (via Brit + Co)
Creepy Clown
No matter if you’re going as a clown or as a mime, this kinda creepy, kinda cute look will achieve all of your Halloween dreams. (via Brit + Co)
True Colors
Show us what you got with this playful, technicolor makeup DIY that’s definitely open to interpretation.
Cassie Howard from Euphoria
This is one Halloween makeup look you can wear even after Halloween's over. Check out our Euphoria makeup tutorials for more inspo, or create your own eye makeup look. Whatever you do, don't forget the rhinestones! (via Brit + Co)
Rainbow Skull
Brighten up an otherwise dark and spooky look with not one, but all the colors of the rainbow.
Gamora from Guardians of the Galaxy
A makeup sponge is key when creating this simple mean green look. (via Brit + Co)
Gorgeous Ghost
Swap the normal ghost sheet for a makeup look that everyone will love. (via Brit + Co)
Trick-or-Treat
We’ll always take some sweets on Halloween — especially when they’re in the form of colorful makeup.
Queen of Hearts
Are Tim Burton fans attending your bash? Then they’ll definitely approve of this look. After all, why not be a queen for Halloween? (via Brit + Co)
Rocket from Guardians of the Galaxy
This raccoon look is pretty dang convincing. Even if you opt for the store- bought costume, this makeup adds that homemade touch we live for. (via Brit + Co)
Millennial Pink
We’re getting Zenon vibes with plenty of sparkly, metallic makeup to match. (via Brit + Co)
Modern Vampire Makeup
Fangs will forever be in fashion. But that doesn’t mean you have to have blood dripping down your chin to let people know what you are. You’re a classy vampire. (via Brit + Co)
Skeleton Makeup from “David S. Pumpkins”
If you’ve yet to see SNL‘s skit, then TBH, you haven’t really lived. Recreate this extremely goofy twist on the traditional Halloween character for guaranteed all-night laughs. (via Brit + Co)
Pop Art Zombie
We live for out-of-the-box zombie looks, and it’s fair to say that this show-stopping peekaboo number hits the mark.
Bombshell Skeleton
Hoping to harness a spooky mood that doesn’t sacrifice style? Look no further than this glam take on the undead. (via Brit + Co)
Zoya the Destroya and Liberty Belle from GLOW
Contouring is key when it comes to creating these wrestler babes’ game faces. Who will win: Zoya or Liberty Belle? (via Brit + Co)
Fairy
This costume at its core is really simple to make, but adding makeup and hair accents will take it from makeshift to masterpiece. (via Brit + Co)
Started from the Bottom Ilana from Broad City
Possibly one of the most epic episode intros of all time, season one’s “Apartment Hunters” begins with a music video short where Ilana looks like an absolute kween. (via Brit + Co)
Woodland Fairy
Minus the butterfly lashes, we would wear this look to a festival. All right, you got us. We’d wear the lashes too. (via Brit + Co)
Olivia Rodrigo Sour Album Cover
All you need for for a Sour Halloween makeup look is your go-to makeup routine and some stickers from the craft store and voilà! (via Brit + Co)
Wisdom Teeth Abbi from Broad City
Season two’s “Wisdom Teeth” episode is arguably one of the best ever. After Abbi gets her wisdom teeth pulled, she takes too much pain medication combined with a ganja-infused smoothie and passes out. Ilana then decides to *paint* her face with makeup while feeling particularly lit. This is THAT look. LOL. (via Brit + Co)
Snapchat Puppy
The trick here is to take a screenshot of yourself in the makeup filter of your choice and then use that as your makeup inspiration photo. (via Brit + Co)
Hocus Pocus Witch Makeup
Who's more iconic than the Sanderson sisters? Those lips, tho. (via Brit + Co)
Dinosaur
Any makeup look that calls for finishing touches of glitter, wins. Tap it on anywhere that your little dino heart desires! (via Brit + Co)
Snapchat Flower Crown Filter
Highlight heavily and contour softly to recreate this popular floral filter. Pro tip: wear lavender or gray contacts to complete the lewk. (via Brit + Co)
Anna from Frozen
Begin by following this tutorial to get your base makeup for this look. For your bronzer, apply in a more circular motion to create her doll-like facial structure. Keep your blush bright pink but blend just on the apples of your cheeks. (via Brit + Co)
Jailbird
Simple tutorial alert! We used the Cat Eye Kit to create these fierce, winged eyes. Continue the eyeliner line down the nose to make a bird beak. (via Brit + Co)
Dalmation
Whether you’re one of 101 or just a solo, spotted pooch this Halloween, you only need to use black and white face paint to create a doggone (get it?) adorable look. (via Brit + Co)
Rainbow
This is actually really simple to recreate — all you need are rainbow cream colors and a small paintbrush or makeup brush to apply them with. (via Brit + Co)
Scarecrow
There’s nothing wrong with keeping it classic for Halloween. Amp up your traditional scarecrow outfit with a little face paint for a pulled-together look in 20 minutes or less. (via Brit + Co)
Zombie Skeleton
Our very own beauty editor knows a thing or two about how to wield makeup for a creepy-meets-gorgeous Halloween makeup look. Talk about a new meaning for the phrase “drop dead gorgeous.”
Frida Kahlo
Trace on a unibrow and you’re well on your way to emulating Frida’s signature look. (via Brit + Co)
Mermaid
Who says that your mermaid dreams have to stay just dreams? With the right pastel makeup and brightly colored mane, you’ll be giving off mermaid vibes in no time. (via Brit + Co)
Elsa from Frozen
Channel Elsa’s icy cool vibes by using a much lighter foundation than you normally would paired with bright cream eyeshadow. (via Brit + Co)
Ursula
Even if you’re not a makeup artist, you can easily recreate this look by capturing the shape of her face. Look at each part before you start painting yourself, and do each step in order.
Pot of Gold
Rainbow hair atop a highlighted and bronzed beauty look makes for one leprechaun-approved Halloween makeup idea. (via Brit + Co)
Purrfect Black Cat
Being a black cat is always a solid option. Grab your liquid liner to DIY this look. Don’t forget the ears! (via Brit + Co)
Cheshire Cat
“If you don’t know where you want to go, then it doesn’t matter which path you take.”
Snapchat Bee Filter
Dramatic lashes and yellow cream makeup go a long way when it comes to pulling off this popular — or should we say buzzy — Snap filter. (via Brit + Co)
Vampire
This vamp costume is perfect for the dark-haired, busy gal on a budget. It doesn’t take a vampire’s life span (AKA eternity) to make — and with just a few easy steps you’re transformed into a picture-perfect creature of the night! (via Brit + Co)
Katy Perry music video image courtesy of Capitol Records
Katy Perry’s “Dark Horse” Makeup
Katy Perry is undeniably the queen of costumes. So, why not take a page out of her book and DIY her standing ovation-worthy “Dark Horse” look? (via Brit + Co)
La Croix
Pick your fave fizzy flavor and you’re sure to win the contest. After all, La Croix is life. (via Brit + Co)
Mad Hatter
This makeup is an understated version inspired by the original and is really easy to recreate. And yes, those are fake eyelashes we used as eyebrows for the ultimate Halloween hack win! (via Brit + Co)
Unicorn
Pastel hair and makeup, a flower crown, a white body suit, and a unicorn horn make for one seriously simple Halloween look. (via Brit + Co)
Andy Warhol’s Marilyn
Head to your local beauty store and grab all the pink face paint you can to get ready to rock your inner pop self. (via Brit + Co)
David Bowie
“I don’t know where I’m going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring.” (via Brit + Co)
Barbie
This makeup look is super subtle and totally customizable to your favorite shades. As long as you have a pink lip, you're good to go. (via Brit + Co)
Trump
All you need is some bigly orange bronzer to make this your greatest Halloween look ever. No Halloween has ever been this great before. It’s the greatest. (via Brit + Co)
The Nightmare Before Christmas
It’s never too early to start the Christmas festivities. Try out this simple makeup DIY from The Nightmare Before Christmas to jumpstart the holiday season. (via Brit + Co)
What Halloween makeup look are you choosing? Be sure to ‘gram it and tag us @BritandCo.
This post has been updated.
I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!
Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals
Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS
I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.
My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!
1. Just Get The Dang Haircut
Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS
Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.
According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.
2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend
Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS
His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.
3. Switch Up Your Shampoos
Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS
Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.
Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS
In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.
If you need some more hair inspo and advice, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS
With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓
Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil
The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.
The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.
Anthropologie Faye Planter
For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.
The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw
She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!
This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.
DedCool Room & Linen Spray
Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!
The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.
Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box
When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.
The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.
Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer
This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!
The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.
Little Secret Round Sunglasses
Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.
The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.
The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set
Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.
This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.
Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil
This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!
This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.
Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion
This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!
The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.
Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals
These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.
The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.
Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix
Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.
This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.
L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote
This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.
This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.
Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set
For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.
The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.
Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders
These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!
This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.
Verloop Raffia Phone Sling
Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.
The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.
Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set
Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!
The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).
UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet
Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!
The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.
Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher
Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!
The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.
Ban.do Meal Planner
This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.
This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.
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