13 Red, White + Blue Memorial Day Party Essentials

Peeps, we’re in the home stretch of spring, and you know what that means: a whole new excuse to have your besties over for a Memorial Day bash. Think: a total red, white and blue get-together. If you’re looking to kick this year’s cookout up a notch (or two or three, TBH), you can’t go wrong with an all-American theme. The flag’s colors are *sure* to add a punch of patriotism to your standard burgers-and-dogs party. Scroll down to check out our favorite ways to amp up your Memorial Day party, America style.

1. DIY Flag Photo Booth Backdrop: There’s no better way to show your love for America than a flag photo booth backdrop. Add red, white and blue fabric to your shopping list, because this must-make will give everyone at the party a reason to snap a few pics. (via Brit + Co)

2. Sprinkled Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwiches: If you’re looking for a way to sweeten up your cookout, give your classic vanilla ice cream sandwiches a roll in some patriotic sprinkles to make them next-level. Whether you make your sammies or go with the store-bought version (no judgment here), your guests will not be able to resist this yummy dessert. (via Freutcake)

3. Dessert Pizza: And if a batch of ice cream sandwiches isn’t enough, this dessert pizza will *definitely* impress your guests. Use cake mix or cookie dough to make the crust, then top it off with a layer of marshmallow fluff, strawberries and blueberries to keep with that colorful theme. Patriotism has never tasted so good. (via Brit + Co)

4. DIY Fabric Cozy: Hot summer days call for a nice, cold brewsky. Instead of using your stack of freebies this year, make a set of these fabric cozies that take less than 20 minutes to DIY. Leave a stack next to the beer cooler so your friends can drink in style this Memorial Day. (via Brit + Co)

5. DIY Star Piñatas: It’s not a 21st century party without a couple of piñatas. Make these red and blue ones using star-shaped boxes and streamers to give your space an extra festive vibe. Fill it with whatever screams ‘Merica and you’ll be good to go. (via Studio DIY)

6. Red Piña Colada: Making sure your cocktails go with your theme is essential to being the hostess with the mostess. Use your favorite piña colada recipe and finish it off with a splash of Seagram’s Escapes to give it an extra hint of flavor and some serious color. You’re going to want to pick up *double* what you think you need, because your besties are going to love this drink. (via The TomKat Studio)

7. DIY Edible Pinwheels: Take your basic cupcake to the next level with these red and blue edible pinwheels made from Airheads. Both kids AND adults will love snacking on them. (via Studio DIY)

8. American Flag Donuts: Speaking of something yummy to munch on, donuts are never a bad idea. Use colored icing or candy melts to dress ’em up like Uncle Sam, then get ready to have the most amazing Memorial Day dessert in town. (via The First Year)

9. DIY Stars + Stripes Paper Cups: Skip the Solo cups and opt for blue and white paper cups. Use a Cricut or stencil to make star cutouts and stick them on with double-sided tape. Add a striped paper straw for wow factor. (via The TomKat Studio)

10. Printable Photo Booth Props: Make a few photo booth props with downloadable printables. Cut out the shapes and attach them to paper lollipop sticks for a super easy way to give your photo booth some oomph. (via I Heart Naptime)

11. DIY Tie Dye Placemats: Plastic tablecloths and boring placemats are a thing of the past. Use this tutorial to make a set of DIY firework-inspired placemats using everyone’s favorite summer activity: tie dying. Not only are they perfect for your Memorial Day party, but you can also use them all summer long. (via Brit + Co)

12. PaperNCharm Printable Invitation ($10): You can’t throw an epic party without an even more epic invitation. Ditch the group text this time around and opt for this printable invitation that’ll liven up your pals’ mailboxes and get them hyped for the par-tay.

13. Red, White + Blue Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Chocolate-dipped strawberries are a crowd fave when it comes to classic party snacks. Head to the farmers’ market to pick up fresh berries, then dip ’em in white chocolate and blue sprinkles to make them perfect for your Memorial Day cookout. (via The Girl Who Ate Everything)

Are you throwing a Memorial Day bash this year? Follow us on Pinterest for more party inspo!

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

Attention movie lovers: it's Oscar season! March 10th kicks off the 96th annual Academy Awards, which is just another reason to get your pals together for a fancy movie-inspired night in. Plan some small bites, make-ahead cocktails and pop in the popcorn for a night filled with glamorous style, inspiring speeches, favorite clips with laughter and tears thrown into the mix. In fact, we've done a little party planning of our own. Feel free to copy us and party it up Oscars style with these brilliant DIYs.

Invites

May we have the envelope, please? Every great party has to start with some glam invitations. (via Twig and Thistle)

Oscar Gold Backdrop

This backdrop takes about 5 minutes to get up but really makes an impact in any room or photo. (via Brit + Co)

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

Channel 1940s Olympic swimmer turned movie star Esther Williams with these adorable swim caps. (via Brit + Co)

Ticket Roll Bowl

Yes, that really is just a roll of tickets. This is such an innovative way to make a fun movie-themed bowl. (via Buggie & Jellybean)

Gold Heart Piñata

Getting sick of commercial break after commercial break? Take a breather and take turns hitting this shiny beauty! We recommend filling it with some movie theater-esque treats for the ultimate themed party. (via Studio DIY)

Popcorn Bar

Though this awesome popcorn bar is more fit for an outdoor party, you could easily create your own on a decorated table indoors. While you're at it, check out some tasty popcorn hacks to add to your spread. (via Hostess With the Mostess)

Printable Popcorn Boxes

Printables are definitely a dream come true for any busy DIYer. These bright and colorful boxes would be a perfect addition to your popcorn bar! (via Design Eat Repeat)

Vintage Photo Booth Backdrop

A photo booth that's both vintage and movie-related? Yes, please! (PS: We're huge fans of the popcorn cones she's holding. Those would also be great for the popcorn bar.) (via Kelly Golightly)

Paper Oscar Statuettes

If you're going for a sophisticated viewing party, this elegant statuette will feel at home on your table. (via Twig & Thistle)

Glitter-Dipped Bottles

Glitter is always a welcome addition to any affair. Add some pizzazz to your drinks with these glitter-dipped bottles. Our super adaptable tutorial would work well for wine and Champagne glasses as well. (via Brit + Co)

Gold Star Garland

Are your walls looking bare? Sparkle them up with this festive garland. (via Green Wedding Shoes)

Balloon Awards

If you feel like the Oscar statuette is way overrated, give awards to your guests with these festive balloons instead! (via Studio DIY)

Film Reel Cupcakes

These tasty treats are perfect for those with a hankering for something sweet. (via Make Life Lovely)

Award Show Gift Printable

Make like the real thing and send all your guests home with a swag bag — these printable stickers are the perfect finishing touch. (via Elegance & Enchantment)

Oscars Bingo

Keep everyone focused on the ceremony no matter how long it drags on with these v. entertaining Bingo cards. (via Julie Blanner)

Awards Season Tablescape

For a swanky affair, set a stunning tablescape: Lots of gold and black silk are in order, and maybe some confetti. (via Pizzazzerie)

Oscars Viewing Cocktail

Keep the drink menu simple with a cocktail that you can make in batches. The gold sugar rim really drives the glam home! (via Blissfully Domestic)

Printable Temporary Tattoos

Add these to your gift bags, or stick 'em on your guests as they arrive! (via Squirelly Minds)

DIY Celeb Confetti

Little. Tiny. Celebrity. Faces. (via Sugar and Charm)

Planning your own red-carpet Oscar viewing party? Make sure to 'Gram it and tag us @BritandCo!

(Additional reporting by Ariel Garneau and Theresa Gonzalez)

This article has been updated.

If Emma Stone is on a movie's cast list, there's a good chance I'll be watching. The Poor Things actress (who just won an Oscar for her role!) is teaming up with director Yorgos Lanthimos for a third time on his new movie Kinds of Kindness. The summer movie has a crazy cast list, and the story looks like it could be one of Yorgos’ wackiest movies yet. While both The Favourite and Poor Things served as strange and fantastical looks at different time periods, it seems Kinds of Kindness takes place in modern America. Here's everything we know!

What is Emma Stone's new movie?

Image via Searchlight Pictures

Emma Stone's new movie is called Kinds of Kindness. The film will follow three separate stories: a man who feels like he has no agency and sets out to claim control over his life, a policeman whose missing wife reappears and seems to be a completely different person, and a woman searching for someone with inhuman abilities who's destined for leadership.

In the newest still from Kinds of Kindness, Emma Stone and Joe Alwyn seem to be in the middle of a standoff. They’re actually standing outside the motel we’ve see Emma’s character drive in front of, which makes me think this will be a huge location within the story. While these actors are all-business during filming, I’m genuinely wondering if they’ve talked about The Tortured Poets Department considering they’ve both been a huge part of Taylor Swift’s life. I HAVE to know which TTPD song Emma has on repeat. (For me, it's "The Alchemy.")

Even though the movie is set in modern America, it definitely seems Kinds of Kindness will have Yorgos Lanthimos' signature wacky and unconventional approach to storytelling. It's kind of like Americana meets magical realism, which, alongside Beyoncé's country album, definitely makes me think media in 2024 will feel like going back to our roots. Watch the Kinds of Kindness teaser trailer here!

When is the Kinds of Kindness release date?

Image via Searchlight Pictures

Kinds of Kindness will be released on June 21, 2024. There's nothing like seeing a new movie in theaters, and this one will be the kind of experience that requires a big screen!

Who's in the Kinds of Kindness cast?

Image via Searchlight Pictures

In addition to Emma Stone, the Kinds of Kindness cast includes Willem Dafoe, Jesse Plemons, Margaret Qualley, Hong Chau, Joe Alwyn, Mamoudou Athie, and Hunter Schafer. Talk about an incredible group of stars!

We just saw Willem Dafoe and Margaret Qualley star alongside Emma Stone in Poor Things, as well as Joe Alwyn share scenes with Emma in The Favourite, and I love that Kinds of Kindness is like a mini reunion.

When was Kinds of Kindness filmed?

Image via Searchlight Pictures

Kinds of Kindness filmed around New Orleans near the end of 2022. The bold colors and contemporary setting mean this is going to be the perfect summer movie. Even the autumnal environment is adding to the overall aesthetic of the movie! You know that time of year where everything is warm yet still has some of the brightness of summer? That's how this new Emma Stone movie feels.

What are other Emma Stone movies to watch?

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

If you're an Emma Stone movie fan, then you definitely need to check out La La Land. Some other ones I'd recommend include Easy A, Crazy, Stupid, Love, and even her recent TV show The Curse. Aside from La La Land, her most critically acclaimed movies are 2018's The Favourite and 2023's Poor Things.

Are you excited for Kinds of Kindness? What's your favorite Emma Stone movie so far? Let us know on Facebook and read up on all the 2024 Movies to watch this year.

Lead image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

This post has been updated.

If you're going to make margaritas at home, you might as well go big and trick out your bar with the brightest decor and tastiest margarita recipes you can find. What better way to pay homage to the sweet, salty and (occasionally) spicy cocktail that's best served with *all* of the guacamolerecipes? From a top-of-the-line blender to a festive rainbow tassel you'll want to hang at all of your parties, we've got 16 essentials for the perfect margarita bar. Fill your DIY piñatasand blow up your balloons, because your margarita Monday is about to get a lot more colorful.

Frozen Watermelon Mint Margaritas

f beating the heat is your aim, a frozen margarita is the obvious way to go. Refreshing ingredients like watermelon and mint turn up the cool factor so you can take the margarita bar outside. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Fruit Slice Balloons

With nothing but some tissue paper and spray adhesive, you can make some fruity balloons to mimic the fruit in your drinks. Foil balloons work best for this DIY, and you can have them filled with helium at the store if you don't have a tank at home. (via Balloon Time)

Spicy Grapefruit Margaritas

Infuse a bottle of tequila with jalapeños so adventurous guests can give their margarita a kick. Jalapeños go great with grapefruit, especially with an extra-salty rim. (via Fit Foodie Finds)

Uncommon Goods Himalayan Salt Tequila Glasses

Once the margaritas start flowing, tequila shots are soon to follow. Ditch your old spring break shot glasses and invest in a classy set in a rose quartz hue. The best thing about these Himalayan salt glasses is that they're already salty, so you won't have to lick your hand.

Sriracha Salt

If you like to add a bit of spice wherever you can, try making some Sriracha salt. It adds a lovely color to your rim and a slight bite to any margarita. Set out several dishes with different infused salts and sugars for your guest to try with their drinks. (via Ladyface Blog)

Blood Orange Margaritas

If you're able to find blood oranges, you definitely need to try this margarita. It's sweet in comparison to the classic, but totally refreshing. This one is rimmed with vanilla-infused sugar. (via Eat Drink Love)

Mini Emoji Piñata

What situation doesn't require some sort of emoji? Express your innermost feelings with this fun DIY that will get everyone involved. Our vote is for the see-no-evil monkey emoji. (viaI Spy DIY)

Coconut Margarita

This creamy cross between a piña colada and a margarita will have you longing for the beach. Try freezing coconut water in ice trays to add to all of your margs — blended OR on the rocks. (via I Ate the Whole Thing)

Vitamix Pro 750 Blender

You need a heavy-duty blender when making pitcher after pitcher of frozen margaritas. Treat yo'self to one that will stand the test of time and look gorgeous while doing so.

Mini Cactus Piñatas

Margaritas are known for being a south-of-the-border cocktail. Celebrate their desert origins by making these mini cactus piñatas that are much easier to make than they look. Plus, they open with the pull of a string, so you can reuse them again and again. (via Oh Happy Day)

Cucumber Margarita

Stave off an unwanted hangover with this fresh, antioxidant-rich recipe. The anti-inflammatory nutrients in the cucumber help the liver metabolize alcohol quickly and flush the system. Win-win. (via Hello Glow)

DIY Tassel Bunting

This tassel garland is incredibly easy (and cheap) to make. You can customize the colors to match your theme and reuse it for many different types of parties. Hang on the wall behind your bar cart for a fun pop of color. (via Bloesem Design)

Target Falon Modern Glam Bar Cart

No margarita bar is complete without… well, a bar. This stylish gold cart is sleek and minimal, so your decor can be the center of attention. Dress your bar cart with cocktail fixings and cute accessories, and set out a bowl of chips and salsa so your guests can munch while they make their margs.

Crate & Barrel Miguel Margarita Glass

Sure, you can technically serve a margarita in any glass you want, but it's nice to have the option of serving them in traditional margarita glasses. Pick up a few of these beauties, made from recycled tequila bottles.

Crate & Barrel Ona Pitcher

If you're going to invest in a set of margarita glasses, you might as well a stylish pitcher to go with them. A pitcher with a thick rim and an off-center handle like this one will keep your drink cold while also looking beautiful.

Original Margarita

Some would argue that the original margarita must be shaken, rather than blended or made in a pitcher. However you prefer to enjoy yours, you should always have a classic margarita recipe in your arsenal. (via Kitchen Swagger)

Follow us on Pinterest for more easy + delicious recipe ideas.

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.

The birds are chirping, the grass is getting greener, and the sun is starting to feel warmer; so obviously the girlies are putting on their cutest sundresses. We don’t make the rules – but as soon as the temperature outside creeps above 60 degrees, you have your kitchen windows open in the afternoon, and unexpectedly find yourself baking more than usual it’s simply a right of passage that your wardrobe has to transition from sweaters and comfy pants to flowy, airy maxis and minis alike.

Sundresses are the ultimate springtime uniform. While they make you look more put together than meets the eye, the coquette nature of this dressing trend is way more relaxed than you would imagine. At a glance, you’re absolutely elegant, when in reality, you saved so much time getting ready in the morning because instead of formulating an entire outfit, you only had to put on one article of clothing before walking out the door for the day.

With wearability from day to night, the versatility of a sundress makes it an outfit that you can wear on repeat so long as the weather permits. Finding an option that you feel most comfortable in is essential for ensuring that you can ditch pant legs for a few months and feel like you fit in with the cast of Little Women. Whether you prefer a prairie-style white midi dress, or a loud floral print, we’ve found the best summer sundress for you available to shop in our picks below.

Shop Sundresses Here!

Praerie Julia Dress

If you’re leaning into your Deeper Well era this summer, look no further than this flowy maxi dress that’s fit for Ms. Kacey Musgraves herself. Whether you plan to frolic through a field, embrace your inner coquette cowgirl, or simply want to lounge at home while feeling more luxurious than usual, this cotton schiffli piece needs a home in your closet.

Current Air Floral Puff Sleeve Dress

The 80s are back, baby! This loudly printed dress is bright and beautiful in all its puff-sleeved glory. You can dress it down with some sweet sneakers, but we do love a strappy sandal moment like above, too! This open back beauty is on sale from $125 to $100.

Hutch Bandeau Romper

If you are worried about chafing in a dress, or an unexpected gust of wind, this loose-fitting romper is a perfect alternative to a traditional sundress. Because it’s so flowy, it gives the illusion of being a mini dress and is offered in 3 different lively prints that are perfect for spring and summer.

Hollister Channeled Open Back Skort Dress

In more romper goodness, this little number from Hollister is everything. The open back makes it even more breathable, while the corset-esque top gives you that romantic, Bridgerton vibe that's so fun for the summer! Content Editor Haley Sprankle has this in blue, and she definitely recommends!

Knyt Studios Long Sleeve Scarlett Maxi Dress

After stumbling upon this sophisticated knit maxi dress, it was immediately added-to-cart. The material is airy enough that you’ll be cool enough to wear this gorgeous piece during the day, and the open back also contributes to temperature control, while also bringing a sexy element to this sundress which makes it the perfect day-to-night option.

Hollister Chiffon On-Or-Off Mini Dress

Hollister does it again with this versatile mini dress! Haley just recently wore hers in Paris, and it was the loveliest little dress to walk around all day and still look cute in! You can just grab your adorable arch-support Rothy's or your fave sneakers and go with this stunner!

Varley Maple Dress

Ever wish you could leave the house in only your favorite oversized tee and call it a day? Thanks to Varley, now you can — and in style, too. Made from the brand’s signature DoubleSoft fabric, you’ll experience unmatched comfort in this above-the-knee dress that also features a waist cinch with toggles, seam detailing, and pockets (score!).

Abercrombie Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

Another Haley fave, she told me this silhouette from Abercrombie is the most flattering of any dress she owns. This blue toile pattern is lovely for spring and summer, but they have other options like sage green floral or black-and-white polka dots.

Altar'd State Addison Floral Maxi Dress

Florals for spring? Groundbreaking! We love the details on this cheery warm-weather maxi; bow shoulder ties, a smocked bodice, and a sweetheart neckline have us dreaming of sun-kissed days and breezy nights in this dress.

Free People Feeling Bonita Midi

As the name suggests, this sundress will have you feeling bonita. There are truly endless ways to wear this backless midi dress; try it as a beach coverup, a casual lunchtime outfit, or as your uniform for vineyard visits this summer. With 7 different colorway options, there’s something for everyone.

American Eagle Puff Sleeve Button-Up Mini Dress

We love this dress for spring and summer jaunts – priced at $50 it won’t break the bank and the design of the silhouette is intentionally flattering. Buttons down the front and a shorter hemline give the illusion of long legs, while a tie at the back of the dress works to cinch your waist. This vintage-inspired number is so easy to feel dressed up in while maintaining comfort during long wear times.

Abercrombie Traveler Mini Dress

Attention all active girlies, you’re going to want this dress. Different than other workout dresses on the market, Abercrombie’s Traveler dress disguises itself as a sundress that feels a bit more formal thanks to elevated floral, polka dot, and striped prints. Whether brushing up on your pickleball skills or afternoon happy hours are on your summer bucket list this summer, the multifunctionality of this active dress with built-in shorts is unmatched.

Target Women's Maxi Sundress - A New Day

Affordable and size-inclusive, this sundress is only $40 and offered in a size range of XS to 4XL. Thanks to the supportive smocked bust, you can opt to go bra-less in this plunging, spaghetti-strapped maxi dress. Offered in classic black, and an electric green, we love the ease of this dress – did we mention it has pockets, too? Talk about bang for your buck!

Abercrombie Emerson Tie Strap Maxi Dress

In case it's not clear, we're big fans of bows over here — especially as a statement detail on a dress! This simple cut is great for all your springtime soirees and summer picnics! It comes in a black-and-white floral as well, but if a pattern isn't your speed, you can snag this in a bold red instead.

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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 Free People

If you’ve ever dreamt of entering the world of Bridgerton, in all its floral, pastel glory, then this is your lucky day! After all the pink goodness of last summer’s Barbie world tour, we’re getting a brand new Bridgerton season 3 world tour that will bring Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, Claudia Jessie, and the rest of your favorite Bridgerton stars to a city near you.


Image via Netflix

The Bridgerton world tour allows the stars of the hit show to introduce fans to the new season in a whole new way. "Beyond the drawing rooms and ballrooms of Mayfair, London’s most fashionable set is going international," says the official Instagram announcement. "Watch along as esteemed members of the Ton see what worldly affairs the globe has to offer."

The first part of Bridgerton season 3 hits Netflix May 16 (followed by part 2 on June 13) and before we press play, Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton are taking the Ton on a whirlwind trip around the world. Here are all 10 cities they're visiting:

  • Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Bowral, Australia
  • Dublin + Galways, Ireland
  • Johannesburg, South Africa
  • London, U.K.
  • New York, USA
  • Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
  • Toronto, Canada
  • Verona, Italy
  • Warsaw, Poland

Image via Netflix

Nicola Coghlan has already wowed us with some glittering looks for the press tour (that’s MY diamond of the season!!) and I would love to see a whole new look every stop. Fingers crossed it’s different shades of seafoam or teal like her costumes in all the new images this season — or even more metallic shades of silver and gold because Penelope Featherington truly shines this season like we've never seen.

Just like The Queen's Ball: A Bridgerton Experience allowed fans to become a part of a regency ball, I would LOVE for this Bridgerton world tour to be another immersive experience. That way, we can all delve even further into the regency of it all. But even more than that, I want to see Bridgerton’s version of each city. Because we’ve seen Shonda Rhimes’ take on England, but I would LOVE to see what her version of 1800s Amsterdam looks like, or her approach to Verona. Now THAT's a Romeo + Juliet I'd watch!

Are you excited for the Bridgerton world tour? Let us know which stop you'll attend, and what you're most looking forward to for Bridgerton season 3!

Lead image via Netflix