I live for a purse that has a pop of color or pattern that complements what I’m wearing, but mom life has taught me there’s beauty in a simple black tote bag. They’re a chic way to elevate your t-shirt and sneakers, making them the most multifaceted accessories you can own.
Here’s a little secret though: black tote bags may look similar at first glance, but they aren’t all created equal. Little details like the texture, stitching, and lining of one can give it a different vibe from another. It’s likely that you love paying attention to detail which is why I have 8 amazing options to share with you!
And P.S. You don’t have to be a mom to rock one (or two) of these black tote bags!
Shop Our Favorite Black Tote Bags
Coach Willow Pebble Leather Tote
I'm biased, but Coach has the best black tote bags IMO. This design features subtle gold details that give it personality without overwhelming the bag. Also, the pebble leather and internal fabric lining means you don't have to fret about carrying something you won't be able to wear longterm. It even has a special place your cell phone so you'll know where it is when you need it.
Anthropologie Faux Leather Commuter Tote
Everything about this sleek black tote bag is calling our names! Okay, I'm exaggerating here. What I will say is you'll be surprised at how easy it is to clean it. All you need is a damp cloth and you'll be good to go! Plus, you'll get a more expansive outer pocket that'll allow you to slip your favorite book club read in it or your kindle!
Madewell The Zip-Top Medium Transport Leather Tote
This team loves Madewell's bags, and the Zip-Top Medium Transport Leather Tote is no exception! The leather is great quality, the shape allows for plenty of storage, and the double straps offer carrying versatility. Classically cute and subtly sophisticated to say the least!
CALPAK Haven Laptop Tote Bag
This laptop tote bag is HIGH on my spring wish list because it's like it was designed for specifically for those of us who carry our laptops around. If you work from home and need to get out of the house, you can place your laptop in it and head to your local book store. What I especially love is that the laptop sleeve is removable and the shoulder strap is adjustable. It doesn't get any better than this!
Everlane The Recycled Nylon Tote
If you decide to get some done in your apartment complex's resident lounge, all you need is this medium-sized tote by Everlane. It's designed to fit a 13" laptop along with a couple of notebooks if you need them. The extra padding inside helps keep your technology safe from bumps and bruises while the pockets help you store your writing utensils.
If that didn't catch your attention, the fact that this tote bag is certified by the Global Recycled Standard will! It's made of recycled nylon and polyester so you'll have something sustainable on your arm.
Rebecca Minkoff Megan Large Leather Tote Bag
Want to have something that's subtly chic? Reach for Rebecca Minkoff's larger leather tote bag. It comes with shoulder straps that'll fit comfortable on your shoulder and it has an open top with a magnetic strap. Inside you'll find an internal divider that helps you organize your items a little better. There's a chance you may still throw things in your bag, but at least you'll know to look on a specific side!
Reformation Medium Vittoria Leather Tote
This slouchy black tote bag from Reformation is absolutely everything! It gives effortless, it gives put together, it gives...plenty of room for whatever you need to pack for the day! Plus, the bow on top is the perfect finishing touch that's both timeless and on trend!
Tory Burch Ella Tote
Tory Burch is another classic brand that knows how to creative simple yet effective designs that fit seamlessly into your everyday life. Instead of a zipper, this tote bag features a magnetic closure that makes opening and closing it easy! There's also two different pockets to store or separate your items!
I'd personally wear this if I'm running errands and want to look put together while wearing one of my casual spring outfits.
Dreubea Soft Faux Leather Tote
This faux leather tote may look pricey but it's actually less than $20! The price alone makes it a viable option for anyone who's a part of the chic on the budget club. The other thing I love about it is that it includes a bigger pocket inside and a smaller external one. For easy access, slip your lip oils in the outer pocket when you need to moisturize your lips throughout the day!
MANGO Faux Leather Shopper Tote
Have a little more to spend? This $50 tote from MANGO is so chic with its adjustable straps and longer body. I love how you can get that pebbled leather look for so much less!
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Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Header image via CALPAK
I love looking at Zillow listings as much as the best of us, but absolutely nobody loves daydreaming about all the outrageously beautiful (and costly) houses for sale more than my mother-in-law. She finds the most gorgeous gems across the country, saving them all for when she inevitably wins the lottery (if anyone would, it's her TBH) and can take her pick of the housing litter. Instead of gatekeeping these jaw-dropping homes, I had her send them my way so I can share them with you! So without further ado, here are 15 of most insanely stunning — and insanely expensive — Zillow houses for sale right now.
Beach Houses
Image via Zillow
East Hampton Beach Cottage
Cost: $44,500,000
The Hamptons are known for their clean, chic shingle architectural style, and this "cottage" is no exception to that. And while I absolutely adore the inside of this home, it's the grounds that really get me at the end of the day. Think about all the beautiful backyard dinner parties you could throw!
Image via Zillow
Destin Beach House Destination
Cost: $4,100,000
Who needs a time share in Destin when you could own all this?! This airy, beautiful house takes coastal home style to the next level. I love the sandy, earthy tones paired with the light blues and open space. And for less than 10% of the Bridgehampton beauty above, this is basically a steal, right? 😉
Image via Zillow
Marvelous Marco Island Getaway
Cost: $5,450,000
I vacation on Marco every year with my in-laws, but I can PROMISE you our one-bedroom timeshare (that I love) isn't anywhere near this stunning super home. Swipe through photos to see how gorgeously staged this multi-million dollar home is — I promise it won't disappoint!
Image via Zillow
Laguna Beach Beauty
Cost: $21,500,000
Obviously Laguna Beach is known for so much more than the hit MTV show, but I can't untangle the two. So in my mind, this is the home Lauren Conrad's parents worked on in Season 1 Episode 1 — a $20+ million dollar stunner that I would later stare at on Zillow. It's not true, but wouldn't it be fun?
Image via Zillow
California Dream House
Cost: $55,000,000
Not only is this a dream house because of how it looks, but also because I could only afford this in my literal wildest dreams. Unless someone decides to discover me on the New York streets for the funny, talented gal my parents think I am, this is strictly a mood board manifestation moment. (But, what if?!)
Image via Zillow
At Home In The Hamptons
Cost: $79,995,000
Oh, how I could wax poetic about this $80 million Bridgehampton beauty. Shall I compare thee to a summer's day? Ya know...the one I would love to have in this very house? Just lounging, living luxuriously? That imaginary inheritance I daydream about could reaaaaaally come in handy right about now.
Image via Zillow
Fantastic Florida Beach Cottage
Cost: $9,950,000
In case you can't tell, none of these homes are "cottages" outside of their aesthetic. While this six bedroom, four bathroom may look humbler than the rest, the cost should indicate what we're working with here. Each room is so perfectly curated, and to have all this right in the heart of Naples is absolutely everything. I could see myself sitting by that fire for SURE.
Condos & Townhouses
Image via Zillow
Gorgeous Georgetown Condo
Cost: $5,495,000
DC is more than just Capitol Hill, and this Georgetown Condo proves it! The natural light, the natural wood accents, and the big, airy rooms make this home a welcomed reprieve in on of the busier U.S. cities. And while you're getting a lot in a small package (three bedrooms for $5+ million...😭), you're really paying for the neighborhood. Georgetown really is full of beautiful townhouses, great restaurants and bars, and overall good vibes.
Image via Zillow
Upper East Side Excellence
Cost: $65,000,000
Hello, Upper East Siders...Zillow Girl here! All jokes aside, this $65 million townhouse is giving all the old money luxe that Chuck Bass and Blair Waldorf would settle into quite nicely. The molding, the wraparound staircases, and the sheer size alone are something else, but the biggest surprise here? TEN BATHROOMS. TEN!!!!!!
Image via Zillow
Totally Airy Brooklyn Townhouse
Cost: $6,950,000
Good new, girls! This totally killer townhouse had a $300,000 price cut last month, bringing it to...just under $7 million! While I try to fix my eye twitch after writing that, scroll through to see the gorgeousness that is this literal mid-century modern four-story home. It's like a little (big) oasis in the middle of the big city!
Image via Zillow
Beautiful Turn-Of-The-Century Brooklyn Townhouse
Cost: $6,995,000
I've said it once and I'll say it again: Carroll Gardens in my dream neighborhood. It's got all the Brooklyn charm with its brilliant brownstones, lively dining scene, and tree-lined streets. Plus, it's so incredibly close to Prospect Park for all your summer strolls with the kids or the dogs or yourself or whomever! And while I could go on and on about the location, the townhouse itself is kitschy with it's mix of classic and modern details.
Mountain And Lake Houses
Image via Zillow
Charming Wyoming Ranch House
Cost: $8,199,000
It feels a little silly to call a nearly $10 million home "charming," but here we are. This modern ranch-style mountain house looks unassuming from the outside. And the four-bedroom inside is really nice, too, don't get me wrong. But what really makes this worth it, if I had to guess? The freaking VIEW. Can you imagine sipping your coffee and staring off into that horizon every morning? Yes, please. I would like one of these.
Image via Zillow
Cozy North Carolina Castle
Cost: $7,500,000
Ah yes, nothing cozier than a literal castle-sized house in Appalachia. In all seriousness, the dark wood accents give you that almost cabin-esque feel that the mountain range so obviously calls for. With 10 bedrooms, this is the perfect retreat for your family get-togethers! You can enjoy each other's company across the estate, or you could...find a little hiding spot and nobody would know the wiser. 😉
Image via Zillow
Sante Fe Getaway
Cost: $3,375,000
The most affordable of the bunch, this single-story Sante Fe residence is a dream-come-true! You've got lake views, trails, and even a golf course if that's your thing! My personal favorite part of this lovely little home, however, is the wine cellar. Can you imagine being like, "Yeah, just go grab a bottle from the wine cellar"?! Like I said, dream-come-freaking-true!
Image via Zillow
Lovely Michigan Lake House
Cost: $3,649,000
The windows alone are enough to make this house the dreamiest escape, let alone the private and super exclusive access to Lake Michigan. This home may only have three bedrooms and four bathrooms, but each room feels intentional, spacious, and utterly luxurious. I'd definitely dip my toes in that water!
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Header image via Zillow
If you’re looking to add a little luxury to your life, look no further. Apparently, there are gold plated, custom $15,000 vibrators out there — and And Just Like That’sSeema is a proud owner of one (Because of course she is!).
Seema’s golden vibrator is proudly made by “THE luxury pleasure brand” (their words), LELO, who are on a mission to offer “the experience of ecstasy without shame, the pleasure of discovering all the wonders of one’s body, arming our customers with confidence that leads to a fulfilled intimate life.” And we’re sure the custom-made, gold-clad Inez does just that. The g-spot vibrator is “defined by decadence and elegance…for those who understand you can’t put a price on pleasure.” But don’t worry — if gold isn’t to your liking, LELO also offers a stainless steel version for $7,900. Thank goodness.
Now, we certainly don’t have the Birkin-funded bank account to shell out a cool $15k. If you’re in the same boat (and also want to feel like luxury), we’ve got you covered. Here are our top Seema-approved pleasure toys that will guarantee a happy ending.LELO SONA 2 Travel ($99)
Prepare to escape on a journey of sexual wellness with a truly orgasmic companion. This petite travel vibrator is here to provide a clitorally mind-blowing experience anywhere you go in an elegant and discreet fashion.
Nu Sensuelle Multi-Play Tulip ($99)
The Tulip is a multi-play vibrator that “cultivates your thirst for sexual pleasure,” delivering pinpoint stimulation for an abundance of erogenous zones. Equipped with ten speeds, five pulsations, and two independently controlled motors, this toy will leave you feeling good
plusOne travel bullet ($15)
One button, infinite orgasms. Don’t be fooled by its size — this toy packs a punch.
LELO DOT Cruise ($199)
The same company that brought you a $15k golden vibrator brings you this pinpoint clitoral stimulator. Thanks to LELO’s Infinite Loop™ technology, it moves in a unique elliptical motion with delicate precision, using the soft and bendable tip to provide a new type of sensation that will leave you wanting more.
Unbound Ollie ($76)
It’s hard to go wrong with a classic wand. Whether you're a seasoned professional or sex toy newbie, this waterproof wand is ultra-reliable and ultra-satisfying.
Diosa Soft Touch by Bellesa ($179)
“Diosa’s dual action vibes hit your clit and g spot better than ever before — bringing you the highest quality blended orgasm you can find on the market.” But don’t just take their word for it, dozens of five star reviews will certainly convince you to click “add to cart.”
Dame Pom ($99)
Dame means it when they call Pom “small vibe, big versatility.” For “first-time players looking for a place to start (and finish) to experienced pleasure-seekers craving flexibility and ease, Pom offers broad or targeted stimulation, plus a powerful motor with 5 intensities and 5 vibration patterns for anything you're in the mood for.”
Nu Sensuelle Aluminium 60sx Amp ($100)
Experience the fusion of intense vibrations and gentle warmth with this versatile bullet. The Aluminium commands 12 vibration speeds, and combined with its aluminum composition ensures that its intensity and heating element withstand dampening, allowing for a “heavenly sensory experience.”
Unbound Bender ($71)
This flexible internal vibrator caan hit all the right places. On the quieter side, this vibe is travel-friendly for those flying solo or with roomies.
Dame Eva ($140)
Spice up partnered sex with this hands-free device that will blow your mind away. Designed for a secure and comfortable clitoral fit, Eva leaves your hands free so you can really be in the moment.
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Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Header image courtesy of Wallshoppe, Craig Blakenhorn/Max,LELO.
Design by Olivia Taylor.
Sequels that are just as good, if not better, than the original movie are one in a million, but if you ask me, Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement definitely tops the list. Anne Hathaway brings a whole new spunk and adultified sass to the freshly 21-year-old Mia Thermopolis, and Julie Andrews shines as Queen Clarisse! (Both on the karaoke stage and off ;)). Not to mention the movie also gave us the blueprint for contemporary enemies to lovers: Nicholas and Mia!
While Bridgerton producer Shonda Rhimes wasn't involved with the first movie, she was the writer for the second — and TBH, that's definitely a reason it's so good!
Image via Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images
"I thought [Princess Diaries 2] would be a really fun thing to do and it turned out to be great," she tells Variety. "I always think it's funny now because I'm working with Julie Andrews now on Bridgerton, but I also spent time writing her as a queen in that movie, and so it was kind of great to get to work with her both times. It's also sort of come full circle in a weird way."
Shonda Rhimes goes on to explain one cut scene she remembers really fondly — and how Andrews' expert performance made it even more heartbreaking to cut. "That was pretty much one of my favorite scenes," she says. "It was this moment where Julie Andrews [has] had her heart broken, and some staff comes in and they start to ask her a question and she screams, 'Do I never get a moment to myself?!' and it was such an amazing moment the way she played it, and the elegance with which she did it. It's really about the pain of being a queen."
"She did it so well," Rhimes continues. "But in general, honestly, she's the nicest person you will ever meet and she was so nice to me, I was nervous to meet her, I was shaking, [but she's] so lovely."
After Julie Andrews sent the sweetest graduation gift to a fan, I'm not surprised to hear how incredible she is. I still have my fingers crossed that we'll see Julie Andrews in The Princess Diaries 3 — and that Shonda Rhimes will return as screenwriter.
What's your favorite scene from the Princess Diaries movies? The mattress surfing scene in Princess Diaries 2 is definitely one of the best movie moments of all time. If you're feeling nostalgic, check out 6 Nostalgic Movies That Feel Like Summer Vacation!
Lead image via Walt Disney Pictures/Buena Vista
‘Tis the season to finally ditch our boots for something on the lighter side: sandals! Sandals season is the best season because it means putting the final touches on our outfits isn’t a total pain (ahem, looking at you, shoelaces and straps).
Warmer weather undoubtedly means more outside time, but we don’t necessarily want to be trodding around in heavy, sweaty walking shoes. That’s where walking sandals come in!
Sandalsneed to be comfy if we’re gonna be walking around in them. Our criteria for the perfect pair of walking sandals includes being able to withstand hours (and miles) of wear without any rubbing, sliding, or blistering. Of course, they need to be cute, too. Style is very hard to sacrifice when it comes to walking sandals, so we definitely prefer ours to be compatible with a variety of different outfits – from casual to more dressed-up.
The B+C team has tried and tested so many types of walking sandals over the years, and these 5 pairs came out on top for their ability to check the boxes for comfort, practicality, and style! Scroll on for thorough reviews of our go-to walking sandals.
Teva Women's Midform Universal Sandals
Comfort: 5/5
For B+C Head of Content, Ali, the Tevas Midform walking sandals are peak comfort. They boast a super soft foam footbed that has heel cupping and elevation around the arches for additional support.
“I’ve worn my Tevas to the ground,” she says. “The inch height boost is appreciated as someone who’s 5-feet 2-inches and they’re incredibly sturdy and cushiony.”
Practicality: 5/5
Ali can walk miles on miles in these easy walking sandals.
“They’ve become my quintessential everyday casual shoe for running L.A. errands like walking my dog, heading to the farmer’s market, and grabbing coffee.”
Although they’re super dependable, Ali feels like the several years of “constant use” from her Teva Midform walking sandals have lost some of their arch support.
Style: 5/5
The Teva Midform sandals are pretty no-frills, but they’re still stylish for today’s age. The 1 ¼-inch height falls somewhere in between flats and platforms, making a fairly casual statement. The thick, adjustable velcro straps that wrap around the toes and low ankle are secure and match with pretty much anything.
They also come in a variety of colorways to suit your own personal style, though the all-black pick is likely the most versatile of them all.
One of the best parts about these walking sandals is their approachable pricing. This black pair is just $65.
Chacos Z Sandals
Comfort: 4/5
The classic Chacos Z Sandals – once you actually break them in – are extremely comfortable, since the footbed tends to meld against the shape of your foot.
To B+C Creative Assistant, Meredith (that’s me!), the break-in period is crucial for Chacos, but it’s not a real pain. Once she wore hers just two times, they softened up and fit smoothly.
Practicality: 4/5
Meredith thinks these Chaco walking sandals are practical for a number of reasons: they work on dry land and in the water, they’re durable to stand up to off-road terrain, and they don’t slip a single bit.
“They work so well as water shoes,” Meredith says. “I’ll wear them on long lake days and I don’t ever have to take them off, even when I’m out of the water.”
The Chacos Z Sandals flaunt a thick, durable rubber sole with their signature ChacoGrip™ layer on the bottom that has a “good amount” of tread, according to Meredith.
The adjustable straps that swarm the big toe, top of the foot, and ankle are amazing at keeping her feet in place with every step.
“I definitely recommend getting your Chacos fitted by an expert and/or tinkering around with the perfect fit yourself,” she says. “It can be hard to find it, but once you have it, you won’t have to worry about adjusting the straps again.”
Although they can withstand weathering pretty well, they’re not all that great for all-day wear. Meredith has gauged over time (she’s had her Chacos for 6 years) that they’re “walkable for a day, but I wouldn’t hike in them.”
Style: 4/5
The Chacos Z sandals are ideal for someone who has more of a granola girl style. They flaunt more technical details (like the chunky sole and noticeable tread), so they’re obviously not as fashion-forward as the Doc Martens or Tevas of the world.
Still, these walking sandals come in a ton of different colors, plus you don’t have to snag the Z-style. Chacos sells a variety of shoe silhouettes with the same comfort levels!
Chaco sandals can be an investment (ranging from $75-$110), but they last a long time. Meredith hasn’t noticed any huge signs of wear over the six years she’s worn them!
OluKai ‘Aka Sandals
Comfort: 5/5
These walking sandals from OluKai changed everything Meredith thought she knew about flip flops. And well, they’re not even quite flip flops, either. They’re like flip flops, but elevated, really.
The ‘Aka silhouette boasts a carefully-crafted footbed that feels as durable as the Chacos sandals, which says a lot for such a lightweight shoe. On top of that, they have a very soft footbed that Meredith is obsessed with since it provides more support than your average slip-on sandal.
Practicality: 4/5
“For a pool day, these are absolutely practical,” Meredith says.
These walking sandals are crafted from a water-resistant material that doesn’t soak up water, but rather, repels it.
This aspect makes them an easy go-to for summer days spent outside.
As far as the actual walking, there’s not rubbing or chafing to be found. The easygoing straps keep the feet in place but don’t feel utterly tight or uncomfortable.
Style: 5/5
The style of these walking sandals is minimal, but adorable. They flaunt some super thin straps (still durable) that knot at the top. Plus, they are shoppable in a handful of other vibrant colors for only $70.
Birkenstock Arizona Sandals
Comfort: 3/5
Ahh, Birks. They’re so classic! Like Chacos, Meredith really had to break in her pair of Birkenstock Arizona sandals for literal weeks before they started to feel just right.
“The cork footbed is supposed to adapt to your step over time, though it takes a while,” according to Meredith.
On the other hand, the wide buckled straps are quite welcoming and have never rubbed her feet the wrong way. They cover a good amount of the foot, so you’re not left with skin sticking out or being pinched weirdly.
Practicality: 3/5
These walking sandals aren’t quite made to go the distance, according to Meredith.
“I'd rather have these on for a quick errand, rather than wandering around for hours at the farmer’s market,” she says. “Maybe I just haven’t broken them in enough yet, though.”
Their flat sole doesn’t have much tread, making it a challenge to navigate any surface that’s not an inside floor or pavement.
Style: 4/5
These Birkenstock walking sandals are the ultimate casual, cool girl shoe. They match with shorts, skirts, pants, and everything in between. They’ve come to have such a classic, unmistakable look, so the brand recognition also boosts their chicness.
These sandals come in a handful of different colors for $110.
Doc Marten Blaire Slide Sandals
Comfort: 3/5
Meredith has been rocking with these Doc Marten sandals since last summer, and she ranks their comfort a total of 3 out of 5. The straps are the main factor that takes away from their overall comfort, since they often rub and give her blisters in very specific places.
Each of the three straps is adjustable, and though she’s toyed with different levels of tightness, they just don’t fit Meredith’s feet right.
The cushy footbed gains a few points back for these walking sandals. Meredith does appreciate the platformed shape for short periods of wear, like getting groceries or stopping by the craft store.
Practicality: 2/5
Since their comfort level is close to intolerable for long periods of wear, Meredith can’t really endorse these walking sandals’ practicality.
“They’re super cute, but I just can’t have them on all day,” she says. “I wish they fit me better than they do.”
Style: 5/5
While the comfort and practicality categories are severely lacking, the cuteness factor of the Doc Marten Blaire Slide Sandals is undeniable.
As a Doc Marten boot enthusiast, Meredith was drawn to them for their easy-to-pair color palette and signature Doc Marten details, like the black leather and yellow stitching.
The Doc Marten Blaire Slide Sandals go for $100.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Images via brands.