This Is Why the Metalmorphosis 005 Kit Is Everything for NYE

There’s something so fabulous about getting dressed to the nines, slipping on a little sequin number and popping a bottle of Champagne. Yes, we’re talking about the one, the only, New Year’s Eve. We’ve talked about NYE beauty a lot recently, and for good reason. It’s the night for all-out glamour. While during the other 364 days we have to temper our disco ball-loving tendencies, on December 31 we can let our sparkle flag fly!

Looking to add a major dose of megawatt metallics to your look? All that glitters is gold — oh, and silver, copper and bronze. That’s right — your chance to shine bright like a diamond this NYE is officially here, thanks to the Pat McGrath Labs Metalmorphosis 005 Kit ($60). Created by iconic makeup artist Pat McGrath, this limited edition kit is everything and then some.

Her latest, HIGHLY anticipated collection rocked the runways of Maison Margiela and Versace and blew up Insta feeds leading up to its official launch on November 15. Not surprisingly, this metallurgic masterpiece sold out within hours of going up on patmcgrath.com on November 15. Luckily for glitter lovers everywhere, it debuted on Sephora.com and at select Sephora stores on November 22 — just in time to turn it up for the holidays!

This out-of-this-world kit includes a cream, pigment, mixing liquid and black dual-ended eyeliner — everything you need to give glow a whole new meaning. Don’t believe us? Take it from Chrissy Teigen, Kate Hudson and Rita Ora.

Make peepers pop, err fly, into outer space with metallic pigment. Add sensuous shine to your lips (hello midnight kiss!). Add alchemical allure to your cheekbones and Cupid’s bow. Whatever your plans for December 31, we predict you’ll be ringing in the new year in pyro-dynamic brilliance with this gilded quartet. Cheers to 2017 — and this mesmerizing metallic kit!

For more beauty inspo, follow us on Pinterest!

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

(Featured photo via Sephora)

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.

Image via Candice Brathwaite-Aboderin

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.

As you start making your holiday prep list and checking it twice, don't forget to gift yourself something nice while you're at it! With all of the festivities during the holiday season, you'll want a couple of dresses that not only help complete your best outfit ideas, but make you feel like a million bucks. That's why I've rounded up 45 of the most stunning holiday dresses, ranging from more casual options to super fancy ones! So take a look — I'm sure you'll leave with plenty of styles saved to your cart. 😘

New Year's Eve Dresses

Hill House The Sequin Ellie Nap Dress

Ever since the OG Nap Dress took the world by storm, Hill House continues to up their game. The Sequin Ellie Nap Dress is absolutely stunning, and so on-brand for that upcoming New Year's function.

Mac Duggal Long-Sleeve Gem-Embellished Velvet Mini Dress

This long-sleeve mini dress has a ton of beautiful gem embellishments that make it such a fun piece to prance around in for New Year's.

Free People Glitter & Gold Midi Dress

This dress is definitely on the bolder side, making it a great choice for a fancier party. The plunging neckline and side-slit detail make it a total-standout outfit.

Mac Duggal Metallic Cocktail Dress

Ooh, this dress is so fun! The rich gold color and the deep dip at the back are just too good.

Wild Fable Tube Sequin Fringe Mini Bodycon Dress

Sequins + fringe = a very good time.

Express Endless Rose Sleeveless Sequin Tweed Mini Dress

Who knew tweed could be so festive?! Loving this sparkly take on a classic pattern!

Maje Paris Short Velvet Dress with Rhinestones

Opt for this cheekier holiday dress silhouette for the fancier New Year's get-togethers.

City Chic Glowing Sequin Long Sleeve Sweater Dress

Sequins on New Year's Eve are always a good idea!

Tuckernuck Black Feather Mod Ellie Dress

Feathers may not feel like the holidays to some, but I think they're fabulously festive! This little black dress is destined for many, many parties IMO!

Trina Turk Creosote Dress

This 60s mod number is giving Audrey Hepburn, IMO!

Joyfolie Caterina Dress

Wanna go boho chic? This Joyfolie dress is perfect for all your festive whimsical wear needs!

Club L London New Money Mini Dress

This is giving Brynn from Real Housewives of New Yorkin alllllll the best ways.

Ivy City Co. Confetti Dress

I just know Reese Witherspoon would slay in this dress from Ivy City Co. The sequin + color combo is perfect for ringing in the new year!

Trina Turk Colossal Dress

Remember those sequin purses of the 2000s? This is like those, but better.

bebe One Shoulder Sequin Sash Dress

You'll absolutely make the whole place shimmer in this one-shoulder dress!

Club L London Friya Ruched Midi Dress

This asymmetrical dress really brings the heat during these colder months!

Christmas Dresses

Madewell Midi Slip Dress

Slip dresses are all the rage right now, and this one doesn't disappoint. You can even throw on a cardigan overtop this holiday dress to make it a little more modest for a family get-together.

DÔEN Celestine Dress

The Celestine dress is a modern, more grown-up take on the holiday dresses of our youths. From the cap sleeves to the velvet material, you'll feel nostalgic and current all at once with this sultry red look.

Old Navy Shine Mini Dress

This dotted long-sleeve dress is so fun with its frilly tiering, and works well for every holiday occasion – not just Christmas!

Out From Under Sweet Dreams Long Sleeve Mini Dress

The frills and ties on this holiday dress remind me of Christmas presents, which is exactly the cheerful vibe everyone needs for the occasion.

Nine West Long Sleeve Shift Mini Dress

Balloon sleeves and a shift silhouette make this holiday dress a flattering option that will become a wardrobe staple! The bow on the back and the wine coloring just scream holidays.

Hill House The Norah Nap Dress

This little green dress from Hill House is versatile enough to dress up or down, plus it's gonna keep you comfy through all the festivities – food and family included.

NIA Coeur Knit Dress

I'm obsessed with the rosette trend, and this eye-catching red dress makes perfect use of it. For colder occasions, this dress would be iconic with a bolero or shrug sweater.

Mango Long Sleeve Rib Sweater Dress

This sweater dress is unbelievably cozy, plus the ribbed texture and flexible fabric allow you to not feel constricted all night!

Anthropologie Strapless Tiered Tulle Dress

Doesn't this poofy dress just give off such Blair Waldorf vibes? I'm all here for it!

NIA Terra Dress

This shiny satin number is the perfect amount of flirty.

J.Crew Tie-Strap Midi Dress

While red is usually the go-to color to wear to Christmas parties, this jem-toned green is such a show-stopper. The satin finish on the material it's made out of speaks to its overall elegance.

Rumored Sweet Talker Mini Dress

The kicker on this holiday dress is absolutely the plunging open back. It ties with an adorable bow that drapes down for a sultry look. If your next Christmas party is among friends and strangers rather than family and kids, this this the pick for you.

Express Nana's Short Puff Sleeves Seraphine Rose Detail Mini Dress

This cherry red holiday dress swarms you in delicate puff sleeves and a comfy A-line skirt. The best part is the rose that sits along the waist.

Hanukkah Dresses

Tuckernuck Navy Blythe Dress

This dark blue dress is clearly bougie, and I need it now.

Elliatt Cassini One-Shoulder Dress

This one-shoulder dress is giving ice queen. but in the best way.

Kimchi Blue Jill Velvet Mini Dress

This cozy velvet design can be worn for a variety of winter activities, thanks to its icy green-blue hue. Wear it with some tights and a pair of comfortable ballet flats!

Elliatt Corsage Satin Bow Minidress

This beautiful dress features a can't-miss bow detail that makes you look like the ultimate present!

Banana Republic Terccia Hammered Satin Dress

The simple silhouette of this satin dress complements every body type, leaving you feeling as confident for your holiday celebrations you can possibly be.

Lulus Royal Blue Satin Pleated Halter Midi Dress

The sleek woven satin on this dress makes it look super luxurious. Isn't that halter neckline *so* stylish?

Vince Camuto Sequin Sleeveless Dress

The sequins on this dress make it such a fun, sparkly choice for flaunting at a Hanukkah party!

Company Holiday Party Dresses

Black Tweed Stacie Dress

Work parties are always a love-hate sort of thing, but this timeless tweed dress will eliminate any stress. The structured look is perfectly appropriate for any holiday work event!

Abercrombie Emerson Chiffon Long-Sleeve Midi Dress

This dress is beautifully festive without being too over-the-top. The modest length makes it work party-approved!

Mac Duggal Bow-Front Empire-Waist Dress

Equal parts feminine, balletcore, and flirty, this party dress is a super fun pick for all your holiday parties and cocktail parties alike. If you live somewhere colder, this pick will be just as cute layered on top of some colored tights with a thick cardi!

Maje Paris Shiny Knit Short Dress

The structured cap sleeves that sit on the shoulders of this holiday dress mean business – perfect for a work party.

Knox Rose Tank Satin Wrap Dress

This satin wrap dress is affordable but looks luxurious thanks to its stunning, waist-hugging silhouette!

Tuckernuck Black Blanche Dress

Anything that gives Blair Waldorf vibes has me in a chokehold! This holiday dress is so classy and can easily be worn year after year.

Banana Republic Rosie Off-Shoulder Sweater Dress

I don't think it gets much more chic than this. The off-the-shoulder knit design of this dress is just *chef's kiss*.

Staud Black and Ivory Faridah Dress

The frilly ivory trim on this dress is *so* cute! The length of the hem is what makes it appropriate for a work event.

Nina Leonard 2-pc. Ruffle Bolero Dot-Chiffon Dress Set

This 2-piece set comes with a bolero and shift dress, giving you some simple and stylish options to mix & match!

Thanksgiving Dresses

Ribbed Mini Sweater Dress

This oversized sweater dress will keep you warm and cozy at every holiday function. The ribbed stitch elevates the overall look and makes it even better for formal occasions.

A New Day Turtleneck Long Sleeve Cozy Sweater Dress

This turtleneck dress from A New Day is the perfect cozy pick for any holiday get-together. The cable-knit design only adds to the overall wintery look.

Kimchi Blue Sydney Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress

The warm color palette, along with some floral designs, make this one perfect holiday dress for Thanksgiving!

Lulus Burgundy Mock Neck Long Sleeve Sweater Dress

You just can't go wrong with a chic sweater dress in the perfect holiday color. The long balloon sleeves and mock neck on this deep red design will keep you warm and looking stylish.

ASOS Ribbed Knit Maxi Dress

The ribbed material on this cream dress is so luxurious! I love that it can be so easily dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.

Ava & Viv One Shoulder Bodycon Dress

This bright magenta holiday dress is oozing with elegance.

Reformation Hermia Dress

The turtleneck neckline and rich gold color make this Reformation dress such a great Thanksgiving day dress! Pair it with sheer tights and knee high boots to pull off a super spirited look.

Old Navy Cami Midi Dress

This waist-defined dress has a beautiful print on it that feels oh-so modern and feminine!

To get everything from style inspo to holiday help, 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.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Anthropologie.

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.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more gift guides for Mother's Day and beyond!

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

Image via brands.