3 Insanely Easy Ways to DIY Your Skinny Jeans

Kate Puhala
Sep 14, 2015

You’re cleaning out your closet for fall, taking a poll on your jeans to decide which to keep and which to toss. When you pick up a pair of plain old jeans, the answer seems like a no-brainer — in the recycle bin you go. But remember, blah denim is never a permanent thing: there is always something you can do to give your jeans a fresh new look, and without much effort. In fact, you probably have everything you need for an ultra easy denim makeover at home rn, as in fabric paint, bleach and scissors. See? We weren’t lying.

We challenged the babes in our office to come up with creative ways to hack their old denim, and for this second post in our three-part DIY Denim Challenge series, the gals are showing off three easy ways to amp up basic skinny jeans. Scroll through for the simple tutorials that make a such major difference.

Mariaclara’s Ripped Knee Jeans

The Inspo

“I’ve been noticing every celebrity sporting them, from Selena Gomez to Giselle! Ripped jeans are not a new trend, but the subtle skinny rips across the knees of black jeans look so chic when paired with a pair of pumps. I think this works with my personal style because I love to incorporate high-low fashion trends into my everyday ensembles. Like if I’m wearing a delicate top, I’ll try to offset it with a rugged pair of shoes or jacket. Or, if I’m wearing a pair of heels, I like to tone down the rest of the outfit. This is one way to do just that!”

How to DIY Jeans With Ripped Knees

1. Try your jeans on and use chalk to draw a line where your want the rips to be.

2. Take the pants off and start cutting along the line with scissors. I did a simple straight cut, but if you want you can do it a bit messier.

3. Using either a nail file or sandpaper, rough up your cut. If you really want the threads to look like they’re bursting from the fabric, just put them through the wash.

The Result

“I love this delicate slit-knee + dark denim look that is only apparent mid-stride — it’s cool but still very chic. I’ll be wearing these with a simple tee or tank, a cropped leather jacket, nude or pop-of-color pumps and a pair of blinged-out earrings. Maybe even rouge lips :)

Lee’s Geometric Print Jeans

The Inspo

“There’s just something I love about crisp, thin white lines against black and simple geometry that doesn’t have to mean anything. I took my inspiration from illustrations I’d seen all over Pinterest and Society6 and decided this would be a cool, subtle way to change up a pair of black skinny jeans. I also wanted to find a more efficient way to make perfectly straight lines and thought of chalk lines used in construction and woodworking.”

How to DIY Geometric Print Jeans

1. Cut two pieces of cardboard to fit the bottom half of your jeans below your knees and insert them into each pant leg.

2. Squirt white fabric paint onto a paper plate in a line and then lay one piece of string in the paint. Completely cover that section of string in paint using your paintbrush. Brush off any gloopy excess paint.

3. Hold your piece of string tight from both sides and lay it down onto one pant leg to apply paint. You can also slide the string back and forth or carefully press down on the string with a clean paintbrush to apply more paint for a bolder effect.

4. Carefully pull the string away, refill with paint and repeat.

5. Touch up your lines or add little dots of paint as you wish with a fine paintbrush and let dry before wearing.

The Result

“For basic lines, this sure did take on an outer-space vibe! To me, this accidental outcome is kind of like an updated galaxy print, so of course I had to style with my silver “ugly sandals,” or as I call them, the moon boots of sandals. I’m personally very cautious with mixing patterns, so I’d go for a simple solid colored top to let the jeans talk.”

Kelly’s Ombre Jeans

The Inspo

“I was inspired by a pair of jeans I bought from Tobi a couple years ago. Those jeans are black to gray, but I never find myself wearing them because darker jeans are just not my style. So I’m updating a pair of lighter wash jeans with that same ombre finish.”

How to DIY Ombre Jeans

1. Dunk the legs of your jeans into water. This will make it easier for the bleach to soak into the denim.

2. Mix 3 parts water to 1 part bleach and let the jeans soak for 10 minutes.

3. Pull about 5 inches of the jeans out of the water and then add another cup of bleach. Let them sit in this solution for another 10 minutes.

4. Pull another 5 inches of the jeans out of the water and add another cup of bleach. Let the bottom of the jeans soak in the solution for a final 10 minutes.

5. Let the jeans dry, then wash them on a cycle by themselves so the bleach solution doesn’t affect any of your other clothes.

The Result

“My new DIY denim is now my inspiration for my hair: a beautiful dark hue faded into an icy lighter shade. I can’t wait to style my jeans with a graphic tee or floral blouse.”

What’s your favorite way to DIY your skinny jeans? Tell us in the comments below and check back next Monday for the final part of our DIY Denim Challenge!

15 Maternity Jeans & Pants To Comfortably Style Your Baby Bump

That stretchy belly band that goes onto your jeans isn’t exactly stylish but don't let that deter you from wearing maternity jeans. They've actually come a long way in recent years so you no longer have to choose between form and function. Check out these maternity jeans that will keep your growing baby bump supported and stylish. And yes, you’ll actually want to wear them.

H&M MAMA Skinny Jeans

H&M MAMA Straight Ankle Jeans

Forget about the belly band with these straight ankle jeans The stretch denimfits your form comfortably and the elastic waist panel helps support your growing baby bump.

7 For All Mankind Maternity Medium Wash Skinny Jeans

Macy's Indigo Blue Maternity Over the Bump Distressed Skinny Jeans

The Secret Fit Belly waistband is what you need to keep your bump feeling comfy right now. As your belly grows, these jeans will help to cradle it. Don’t worry about a weird belly band look — It’s totally hidden.

H&M Mama Ankle-Length Slacks

For moms who still work a 9 - 5 and may not feel like wearing a dress all the time, this pair of H&M maternityslacks will keep you stylish yet comfortable thanks to their covered elastic.

Paige Noella Maternity Jeans

Instead of the full front belly band, these maternity jeans have elastic side panels. This does plenty to hide the maternity-ness of these super-stylish pants. And yes, you can wear these cute, casually distressed jeans for all three of your trimesters.

Pink Blush Maternity Light Blue Wide Leg Maternity Jeans

Live your best cowgirl life with these wide leg maternity jeans.

Hatch Collection The Crop Maternity Jeans

Chances are you feel warmer than you usually do during pregnancy so the last thing you want to do is wear something that increases your body's temperature. Opt for these crop maternity jeans so your ankles can feel a little breeze.

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Beyond the Bump Maternity Midi Joggers - Navy Blue

A nice pair of joggers feels good to wear on any given day so we're positive this pair by Beyond Yoga will fit snuggly over your baby bump.

Wrangler Retro Maternity Jeans

Everyone needs a pair of retro jeans in their lives - including you mama.

Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel Over Belly 90's Maternity Jeans

90's jeans are making a comeback and guess who gets to join in on the fun? Pregnant mamas.

Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel Under Belly 90's Maternity Jeans

While you're at it, snag another pair of 90's jeans so you can be extra comfy.

PrettyLittleThing Maternity Light Wash Split Hem Jeans

If you want to wear a more elevated pair of jeans, add this light wash split hem pair to your maternity collection.

Sonoma Goods For Life Maternity Denim Overalls

Denim overalls aren't exactly jeans but they're still in the denim family. They're also functional and cute.

HATCH The Over The Bump Straight Maternity Jeans

Make way for more straight-leg maternity jeans! They're the perfect companion to wear with your classic Chuck Taylor sneakers.

PinkBlush Camel Smocked Waist Wide Leg Linen Pants

Where were these pants when my baby bump was growing faster than I could blink? Seriously, this pair of linen pants is so versatile that you can wear them to your doctor's appointments, while running errands or on days you're lounging at home.

HATCH The Ultimate Before, During & After Bike Shorts

I personally lived in bike shortson the days I didn't have to work in-office. They're so comfy and made it easier to walk around. Also, they seemed to lessen the pain I'd get from lightning crotch.

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Creative DIY Birthday Card Ideas Your Friends Will Love

As cute and clever as store-bought greeting cards are, there's something incredibly thoughtful that can be felt in a homemade birthday card from a friend or loved one. Not only does the act of creating DIY birthday cardsgive you the chance to slow down from the business of life and reflect on what you cherish most about the people you're celebrating, but the one-of-a-kind touch will be super memorable for your recipients as well.

Even if you're not the craftiest person, don't fret, because we've put together a straightforward guide on how to craft your own DIY birthday card for your besties and S.O.'s. Step into the world of DIY magic as we embark on a quest to create birthday cards that will leave your recipients in awe. From unexpected pop-up surprises to mind-bending interactive features, discover fresh ways to make birthday cards burst with fun and excitement. Prepare to unleash your inner artist as we dive into all the tips to help you craft unique and captivating birthday cards. And keep reading for some thoughtful text ideas to ensure that your birthday wishes are just as fun as the card design they're on.

Step 1: Gather Your DIY Birthday Card Supplies

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Before embarking on your DIY birthday card adventure, gathering all the necessary supplies is essential. A well-prepared crafter is a confident crafter! So, let's make sure you have everything you need to bring your imaginative card ideas to life.

  1. Start with colored cardstock or paper as the foundation of your cards. Choose a variety of vibrant hues to suit different themes and moods. Scissors are your trusty sidekick, enabling you to precisely cut out shapes, create borders, and trim your cardstock.
  2. Grab glue or adhesive tape to hold everything together securely. Opt for a glue stick for a mess-free experience or double-sided tape for a clean and seamless finish.
  3. Round up all the art supplies you have, from markers and colored pencils, or pens. These magical tools will be your gateway to adding personalized messages, whimsical doodles, and vibrant colors to your DIY creations.
  4. Stock up on a dazzling array of embellishments for an added dose of flair and personality. Let your creativity soar as you explore the boundless possibilities of stickers, sequins, ribbons, twines, buttons, beads, and more. Watch your creations come alive with vibrant colors, textures, and eye-catching details. With these delightful elements at your fingertips, there's no limit to the magic your birthday cards can be infused with.

Step 2: Choose Your Card Design

Image via George Dolgikh/Pexels

The card design will function as the first impression that sets the tone for the entire experience. A well-designed card can evoke emotions ranging from joy and excitement to nostalgia and warmth, leaving friends and family in awe of the thoughtful gesture.

Handmade Watercolor Design:

Express your artistic side by creating a handmade watercolor masterpiece for a genuinely one-of-a-kind birthday card. Start with a blank cardstock or watercolor paper as the base, and let your creativity flow. Use watercolors to paint a vibrant and personalized design, such as flowers, balloons, or a recipient's favorite hobby or color palette. Add a heartfelt birthday message inside to complete the card.

Pop-Up Surprise:

Add an element of surprise and delight to your card with a pop-up feature. Cut out a simple pop-up mechanism using cardstock or colored paper and attach it to the inside of the card. Then, unleash your creativity by designing and cutting out fun shapes, such as cakes, candles, or balloons, and attach them to the pop-up mechanism. When the card is opened, the surprise element will make the birthday celebration of your loved one even more memorable.

Quilled Creations:

Quilling is a paper art technique that involves rolling and shaping thin paper strips to create intricate designs. Use quilling techniques to create beautiful and delicate patterns, flowers, or even personalized messages on your birthday cards. Experiment with different colors and shapes to bring your design to life and make it truly unique. The recipient will appreciate the time and effort put into crafting such an elegant and artistic card.

Hand-Stitched Greeting:

Consider incorporating those skills into your DIY card if you enjoy sewing or embroidery. Use a needle and thread to create hand-stitched designs or patterns on fabric or cardstock. You can stitch the recipient's name, a birthday message, or even cute motifs like balloons or cupcakes. The texture and charm of a hand-stitched card will make it a cherished keepsake.

Interactive Slider Card:

Create an interactive slider card to take your birthday card to the next level. Use cardstock to make a slider mechanism that reveals a hidden message or image as it is pulled. Write a heartfelt message or attach a memorable photo that slides out when the recipient pulls the tab. This interactive element adds a playful touch to your card and makes it truly engaging.

Step 3: Write A Clever Message

Image via June/Pexels

Elevate your birthday card by personalizing it with a heartfelt note to enrich the receiver's experience. Share warm wishes, inside jokes, or memories that make the card even more special and meaningful. Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas for what to write inside your DIY birthday card!
  1. "Happy birthday, queen of the hashtags! May your day be as fabulous as your Instagram feed."
  2. "You're the avocado to my toast, the squad to my goals. Happy birthday, superstar!"
  3. "It's your birthday, so let's turn up the 'Lit' level and celebrate like it's 1999... or 2023!"
  4. "Birthdays are nature's way of telling us to eat more cake. Enjoy your special day!"
  5. "May your birthday be filled with good vibes and a bottomless brunch. Cheers to another fabulous year!"
  6. "Sending you birthday wishes with all the heart emojis. You deserve all the love and happiness today and always."
  7. "Happy birthday to my favorite extremely online friend. May your Wi-Fi always be strong and your battery never die."
  8. "Time to celebrate another trip around the sun. Let's make this year even more epic than the last!"
  9. "You're not getting older, you're leveling up! Happy birthday, gamer!"
  10. "Happy birthday, trendsetter! May your day be filled with selfie-worthy moments and viral-worthy adventures."

Step 4: Add The Perfect Finishing Touch

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As a bonus, consider creating a DIY envelope to complete the package. Choose decorative paper or repurpose materials like magazine pages or fabric scraps to craft a unique envelope that adds creativity and thoughtfulness to your handmade card. Personalize it by adding hand-drawn designs, stamps, or calligraphy for an extra special touch.

So, there you have it! DIY birthday cards offer endless possibilities for fun, creativity, and the chance to unleash your imagination. With just a few simple steps, you can create customized and sincere cards that will bring joy to your loved ones on their special day. Remember, the beauty of DIY is that there are no limits or rules. Let your creativity run wild, experiment with different techniques, colors, and textures, and, most importantly, have fun. Happy crafting!

For more crafty ideas, check out all of our DIY ideas on Brit + Co.

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The 10 Best Jeans For Summer That *Won’t* Make You Feel Like You’re Going Into Heat Stroke

I get how ridiculous proposing jeans this time of year sounds, but trust me — these styles are as cool and summer-friendly as can be. Denim is a definite wardrobe staple, and it’s time to find ways to wear the material year-round (so you’re not stuck with an abandoned denim drawer taking up space). I urge you to not shy away from jeans this summer – with the right pair, you’ll be looking effortlessly chic and more importantly, comfortably breezy. See the 10 best jeans below for seasonal inspo that you can *also* take with you into fall.

American Eagle Dreamy Drape Stretch Super High-Waisted Cargo Baggy Wide-Leg Jean in Skylight ($42, was $60)

Wide-leg is the way to do when it's warm out, but you don't feel quite confident stepping out in shorts. The looser fit will ensure your outfit is breathable – plus the special stretch fabric of these jeans will make a total difference.

We The Free Tinsley Baggy High-Rise Jeans in Free Bird Blue ($98)

These baggy jeans bring an edgy vibe to any summer ensemble. Skinny jeans, who?

Gap High Rise Stride Wide-Leg Jeans with Washwell in Medium Wash ($80)

These comfort-forward jeans are equal parts structured and relaxed. The wide legs keep you cool, and the neutral wash can go with anything!

Levi's Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans in Light Wash ($108)

Go class with Levi's best jeans. The super-high waistline snatches your figure in the *most* flattering way, all without restricting your movement.

& Other Stories Relaxed-Fit Tapered Jeans in White ($129)

Darker denim feeling a little too draining? Opt for some loose-fitting white jeans like this pair from & Other Stories!

L.L. Bean Lakewashed Mid-Rise Wide-Leg Pull-On Chambray Chinos ($60)

Though these aren't *technically* jeans, the blue chambray material emits the same denim feels, without the heavy weight. The best jeans for summer will always have a tie instead of buttons!

Future Collective Mid-Rise Baggy Fit Jeans ($34, was $40)

Baggy jeans for the win. This lighter-colored design can be taken into the fall season and beyond with your wonderful styling skills.

Old Navy High-Waisted Wow Wide-Leg Jeans in San Catarina ($24, was $37)

You'll want all the stretch you can get for summertime wardrobe comfort. These jeans from Old Navy provide the *perfect* amount for that broken-in wear.

American Eagle AE77 Stovepipe Jean in Light Wash ($96, was $128)

The silhouette on these jeans hits current fashion trends right on the head, with a flattering baggy fit and worn-in light wash.​

Wild Fable High-Rise Cargo Baggy Jeans ($30)

These cargo-esque jeans wear like a denim dream, plus the white color will keep you feeling refreshed no matter where summer's adventures take you.

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11 Paleo Desserts That Don’t Make You Feel Like You’re On A Diet

Paleodesserts typically avoid processed ingredients, grains, dairy products, and refined sugars – but that doesn’t mean they have to be bad. Sure, they primarily focus on using whole foods, but there are tons of paleo desserts out there that don’t feel like you’re eating on a diet at all.

Common ingredients in paleo desserts include almond flour, coconut flour, coconut oil, dates, and various fruits like berries or bananas. You can feel really good about eating these 11 paleo desserts. They’re nutrient-dense and perfectly sweet! From snack-sized bites to fully-fledged cakes, we’ve got you covered.

Paleo Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cookies are superior when it comes to paleo desserts, or any desserts for that matter. These addictive bites take on the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate, all without leaning on process ingredients! (via Brit + Co)

Cherry-Cranberry Almond Paleo Scones

These paleo scones are just as good as the ones you'd snag from your local coffee shop. Cherries and cranberries dot the sweet dough for a fresh touch, plus there's a delicious cranberry glaze to top it all off! These paleo desserts would work so well for serving a large party crowd – or, you could save the leftovers all for yourself. (via Brit + Co)

Fudgy Paleo Brownies

Though you might assume paleo desserts say 'no' to chocolate, this brownie recipe will instantly prove you wrong. The batter, made primarily from almond flour, coconut flour, and cocoa powder, gets balanced out in terms of moisture with coconut oil, eggs, and maple syrup. Dark chocolate is the key to this dessert's success! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Paleo Gummy Bears

Our list of paleo desserts wouldn't be complete without the more fruity snacks! These paleo-friendly gummy bears only require three ingredients and a gummy bear mold with a dropper. You can make any flavor you want depending on the type of fruit juice you use – just make sure it's labeled “not from concentrate” and is organic to abide by the paleo guidelines. (via Clean Cuisine)

Berry Paleo Banana Bread with Lemon Glaze

Banana bread is the ultimate treat you can snack on in the morning, afternoon, and at night. This paleo version is doctored up with even more healthy stuff like three types of berries and an addictively tart lemon glaze. Swoon! (via The Endless Meal)

Coconut-Coated No-Bake Energy Bites

For paleo desserts that you *don't* have to actually bake, energy bites are the sweetest solution. These can be crafted within minutes using a short list of ingredients: prunes (healthy fiber FTW!), almonds, chia seeds, and surprisingly, orange juice! Pop one in your mouth for a workday snack, or wait for bedtime to indulge in this daily sweet treat. (via Live Eat Learn)

Raw Chocolate Avocado Pudding

This spoonable paleo dessert is also plant-based, gluten-free, and made with 5 ingredients. The creamy base is made with 2 ripe avocados, which get masked with the flavors of cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and the natural sweetener of your choice. (via Veggie Society)

Paleo Coconut Cream Pie

You may be a bit skeptical at just how good a keto, paleo, vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free pie could really taste, but we promise this one is ahh-mazing. The coconut flour, coconut milk, coconut whipping cream, and *actual* shredded coconut form the signature flavor without taking over too strongly. You'll wanna eat slice after slice! (via No Eggs or Ham)

Paleo Thin Mints

Wanna enjoy your fave Girl Scout cookies year-round? Look no further than these paleo thin mints that incorporate the minty, chocolatey flavors you love, without any harmful additives. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Paleo + Vegan Caramel Apple Slices

Us any apple variety you love alongside some melted dark chocolate and caramel to create these mouthwatering apple slice pops. You can go crazy with with topping 'em with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and the like, but it's really up to you on how to best enjoy them. (via Rachel Mansfield)

4-Ingredient Chocolate Chia Pudding

This chocolatey chia pudding is too tasty. With an ample serving of chia seeds, cocoa powder, almond milk, and maple syrup, this is a certifiably healthy paleo dessert. (via Two Spoons)

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Grab Your Slushees & Check Out Where The "Glee" Cast Is Now

ICYMI, the 15th anniversary of Glee is coming up on May 19 and we're feeling all the feels. But we're not the only ones! "It's incredible, like, that's my family. We did something that was groundbreaking," actress Amber Riley says in an interview with ET. "I'm always grateful to Glee for being the catapult for my whole entire career, and for giving me such a vast knowledge and vocabulary of music."

The teen drama played a huge role in the careers of stars like Lea Michele, Matthew Morrison, and Alex Newell, and so many members of the cast of Glee has starred in a number of other titles. Their continued success proves just how talented they are, which is why I rounded up all their latest projects so you can spend more time watching them! Here's where you can see the cast of Glee in 2024.

Lea Michele as Rachel Barry

Images via Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images/Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions

Without a doubt, the most notable thing Lea Michele has done since the end of Glee is FINALLY starring as Fanny Brice in Broadway's Funny Girl. It was a super meta moment that brought reality and Glee lore together, and the entire internet lost their minds. You can also watch her in Scream Queens and New Year's Eve. Lea is currently expecting her second child with husband Zandy Reich, and has been very vocal about her struggle with PCOS.

Corey Monteith as Finn Hudson

Images via Frederick M. Brown/Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

Before he was on Glee, Corey Monteith had roles on Smallville and Supernatural. He's also reportedly the inspiration behind Taylor Swift's "Mine" from Speak Now. You can also see him in Monte Carlo and Final Destination 3. Corey passed away on July 13, 2013.

Chris Colfer as Kurt Hummel

Images via Frederick M. Brown/Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Chris Colfer is one of my personal favorite members of the cast of Glee, especially since Kurt is such a sweetheart. You can see him in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie and RuPaul's Drag Race: All Stars, and you can read his The Land of Stories book series! The actor and author has been in a relationship with Will Sherrod since 2013.

Jane Lynch as Sue Sylvester

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Jane Lynch is one of the most iconic members of the cast of Glee thanks to her portrayal of Sue,and since the show wrapped, she's been involved with a number of other hit projects. You can see her in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Wreck-It Ralph, Selena Gomez's Another Cinderella Story, and Only Murders in the Building. The actress lives with her wife Jennifer Cheyn, who she married in 2021.

Jenna Ushkowitz as  Tina Cohen-Chang

Images via Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images/Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Gold Meets Golden

Jenna Ushkowitz joined the cast of Glee after her run in Spring Awakening on Broadway. She's done a few other Broadway shows like Waitress, and won Tonys for as a producer on Once on This Island and The Inheritance! You can also see Jenna in Lady Gaga's "Marry the Night" music video, as well as Katy Perry and Nicki Minaj's "Swish Swish," and listen to her And That’s What You Really Missed podcast, which she co-hosts with Glee star Kevin McHale. Jenna married David Stanley on July 24, 2021 (Kevin was her "man of honor" — cute!!) and in June 2022, gave birth to their daughter.

Kevin McHale as Artie Abrams

Images via Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images/Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Gold Meets Golden

In addition to starring in Glee (and listening to his And That's What You Missed podcast, of course), you can see Kevin McHale in Bratz, Zoey 101, and American Horror Stories. He's been in a relationship with actor Austin P. McKenzie since 2016.

Ali Stroker as Betty Pillsbury

Images via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images/Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions

Ali Stroker was a finalist for The Glee Project (a reality show that gave contestants the opportunity to appear in the show) before guest starring in season 4. Since the 2013 episode, Ali has starred in Lifetime's Christmas Ever After and also had a small role on Only Murders in the Building. The actress also became the first person with a disability to both receive a Tony nomination and award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for portraying Ado Annie in Oklahoma!

Dianna Agron as Quinn Fabray

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After playing Debbie Marshall on Milo Ventimiglia's Heroes, Dianna nabbed the role of complicated cheerleader Quinn on Glee. She's also had roles in Burlesque, I Am Number Four, Ralph Breaks the Internet, and The Chosen One. In 2022, Dianna finished her third residency Café Carlyle which is sooo giving Quinn Fabray.

Alex Newell as Wade "Unique" Adams

Images via Jason Merritt/Getty Images for Trevor Project/Jenny Anderson/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions

Alex Newell stole hearts as Unique on Glee, and since the finale, they've also starred in Empire and Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist, as well as Broadway's revival of Once on This Island and Shucked (for which they became the first openly nonbinary performer to win a Tony).

Melissa Benoist as Marley Rose

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Melissa Benoist just starred in Max's Girls on the Bus (watch our interview with her here!), but she might be best known for the title role in The CW's Supergirl. You can also see her in Patriot's Day, The Longest Ride, and Whiplash. Like other members of the cast of Glee, Melissa starred on Broadway and made her debut as Carole King in Beautiful. After splitting from Glee co-star Blake Jenner in 2017, Melissa got remarried to Chris Wood in 2019 and gave birth to their son in 2020.

Chord Overstreet as Sam Evans

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My personal favorite project from this Glee cast member is Falling for Christmas, which also stars Lindsay Lohan! You can also see him in iCarly, The Bold Type, and The Middle. The actor and singer dated Emma Watson in 2018, and in 2020, Chord released his song "Hold On," which has over 826 million streams on Spotify.

Jayma Mays as Emma Pillsbury

Images via Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Fox/Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

In addition to being a part of the cast of Glee, Jayma Mays has starred in Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Heroes, and Red Eye. She married Adam Campbell in 2007 and gave birth to their son in 2016. Most recently, Jayma starred opposite Amy Adams and Maya Rudolph in Disenchanted!

Amber Riley as Mercedes Jones

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Amber Riley's Mercedes is one of the best parts of Glee (and her rendition of "Bust Your Windows" is among the best performances on the show!!). Since the end of the series, Amber has starred in The Wiz Live!, The Little Mermaid Live!, and Monster High. She won Dancing with the Stars season 17 in 2013, and released her RILEY EP in 2020.

Darren Criss as Blaine Anderson

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Darren Criss won an Emmy in 2018 for his role in The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, which is only slightly more impressive than his involvement in the viral, deep-cut production of A Very Potter Musical (kidding!). You can also see him in Melissa Benoist's Supergirl and Muppets Haunted Mansion. Darren married his longtime girlfriend Mia Swier in 2019, and the couple welcomed their first child in 2022.

Blake Jenner as Ryder Lynn

Images via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Blake Jenner starred in The Edge of Seventeen with Hailee Steinfeld and Haley Lu Richardson, as well as Supergirl and What/If. Blake married Melissa Benoist while they were both in the cast of Glee, but the couple divorced in 2017. In 2019, Melissa revealed in an Instagram video that she's a survivor of domestic violence + injuries she received from a past partner. Blake responded in 2020, revealing he had been the partner Melissa referenced.

Dot-Marie Jones as Coach Beiste

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Not only does Dot-Marie Jones play a coach in the cast of Glee, but she's also a 15-time world arm wrestling champion IRL. You can see her in Lizzie McGuire,Material Girls, Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, and Killing It. Dot-Marie has been married to Bridgett Casteen since 2013.

Naya Rivera as Santana Lopez

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Naya Rivera's Santana was one of the best characters on TV, and she had incredible vocal chops to boot. You can see the actress in Step Up: High Water, CSI: Miami, and Even Stevens. Naya passed away in 2020 while boating with her son Josey in 2020.

Heather Morris as Brittany Pierce

Images via Frederick M. Brown/Amy Sussman/Getty Images

After you've binge watched Glee (again), you can see Heather Morris in Santa Fake, Cora Bora, Raven's Home, and So Help Me Todd. She competed in season 24 of Dancing With the Stars (she was also a backup dancer for Beyoncé, slay!), and shares two children with husband Taylor Hubbell.

Matthew Morrison as Will Schuester

Images via Amy Sussman/Getty Images for Fox/Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Matthew Morrison has been in a number of musical productions outside of Glee, including the OG Broadway casts of Hairspray,The Light in the Piazza, and Finding Neverland. Most recently, he starred in Christmas movie Paris Christmas Waltz. Matthew shares two children with his wife Renee Puente.

Harry Shum Jr. as Mike Chang 

Images via Michael Buckner/Getty Images for InStyle/Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Netflix

Harry Shum Jr. starred opposite Nina Dobrev in Love, Hard on Netflix, and you can also see him in Step Up 2: The Streets and Step Up 3D, as well as Everything Everywhere All At Once. He plays a small role during the credits of Crazy Rich Asians, and will reportedly star in a spinoff about his character and Gemma Chan's Astrid. He shares a child with wife Shelby Rabara.

Mark Wayne Salling as Noah "Puck" Puckerman 

Images via Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Fox/Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for The Viper Room

Before joining the cast of Glee, Mark Salling starred in Walker, Texas Ranger, Children of the Corn IV: The Gathering, and The Graveyard. He also released his Pipe Dreams album after founding Pipe Dreams Records. Mark passed away in 2018.

Who have you kept up with from the cast of Glee? Check out Where Is The Gilmore Girls Cast Now? for more info on your favorite actors!

Lead image via FOX

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