11 Colors You Need in Your Closet This Year

Feb 24, 2015

Along with new silhouettes, covetable accessories and to-die-for shoes, a new season means a fresh new color palette to get excited about. NYFW gave us a rich spectrum of moody hues, including all the fall classics plus Pantone’s color of the year, Marsala. A few surprising shades were mixed in, like pale pink and purple, both which carry over from spring, and fresh, sunny yellow made an appearance as well. Scroll on down for 11 of the most need-to-know colors for fall.

1. Moody Blues: While cobalt and navy blue were out en force, it was a dramatic shade of bluish-green on silky satin dresses at Dion Lee, oversized coats at Michael Kors and lady-like lace frocks at Monique Lhuillier that caught our attention. (Photos via Arun Nevader, JP Yim, Frazer Harrison/Getty)

2. Camel and Its Cousins: Earth tones are a fall staple, so it’s no surprise that almost every designer sent at least one look down the runway in a shade of camel, khaki or chocolate brown. A warm winter topper in a natural hue is at the top of our fall must-have lists. A few of our faves? Donna Karan’s military-inspired trench, Jason Wu’s furry khaki number and Altuzarra’s luxe tweed coat. (Photos via JP Yim, Neilson Barnard, Neilson Barnard/Getty)

3. Green with Envy: Between fall’s folksy, bohemian vibes and military-inspired aesthetic, there was plenty of green to be seen out on the catwalk. Designers like A Détacher, Marc by Marc Jacobs and Karen Walker incorporated the color into everything from suede overcoats to boho dresses in shades stretching from hunter green to sage and viridian. (Photos via Brian Ach, Neilson Barnard, Albert Urso/Getty)

4. Marsala: We have to admit, Pantone knows what’s up. Their color of the year, Marsala, made a strong showing on the F/W 2015 catwalks, popping up in Edun, Tory Burch and Proenza Schouler’s lineups. The rich, moody color is perfect for fall — cozy nights in and holiday parties alike. (Photos via Slaven Vlasic, Slaven Vlasic, JP Yim/Getty)

5. Outrageous Orange: Burnt orange is more or less an autumnal standby, but this season the fruity hue is packing major punch. And according to Prabal Gurung, monochromatic getups aren’t just for neutrals anymore. He took the vivid color and created an entire look around it — talk about making a statement. (Photos via P Yim, Slaven Vlasic, Fernanda Calfat/Getty)

6. Pretty in Pink: Designers showed us they weren’t quite ready to let go of spring just yet. Light pastel colors (big for resort and spring) made a gorgeous appearance in more than one collection. Bright pink florals on a two-piece Kate Spade number were reminiscent of spring’s bold patterns, while a luxe pale pink coat at Altuzarra mixed glam winter gear with a hopeful spring hue. (Photos via Mike Coppola, Cindy Ord, Neilson Barnard/Getty)

7. Visions of Violet: From pale shades of lavender to plum and fuchsia, purple was another spring carryover that found its way into the fall collections. Anna Sui put a bohemian twist on the royal hue, while Tibi used it to create contemporary, feminine styles. (Photos via Slaven Vlasic, Brian Ach, Neilson Barnard)

8. Look-at-Me Red: A collection without red is like a show without models — it just falls flat. Bold, bright shades of the vampy color livened up Jason Wu’s neutral-heavy showing and perked up Lacoste’s ’70s-styled sportswear. And what Carolina Herrera collection would be complete without her signature hue? (Photos via Neilson Barnard, Frazer Harrison, Frazer Harrison/Getty)

9. Wintery Whites: Designers like Diane von Furstenburg, Dion Lee and BCBG, plus many more, showed us that some fashion rules are definitely worth breaking, sending numerous all-white ensembles down the fall runways. And not just winter white, either’ we’re talking bright, stark white too. So the next time you catch someone giving you the eye while rocking all white after Labor Day, just tell them DVF gave you the okay. (Photos via Neilson Barnard, Arun Nevader, Frazer Harrison)

10. Mellow Yellow: Yellow felt fresh after collection after collection filled with dark colors and earth tones. We loved the unexpected pairing of a sunny yellow midi with mountain-inspired attire at J.Crew and the mustard yellow floral prints and plaids at Michael Kors. (Photos via Fernanda Calfat, JP Yim, Frazer Harrison/Getty)

11. Gray for Days: Black of course was big, but we’re diggin’ the more laid-back vibe of gray. Body-hugging bodycons at Hugo Boss felt sophisticated in a soft shade, while loosely-layered looks at Wes Gordon and Public School were incredibly cozy, but not at all sloppy. (Photos via Brian Ach, Albert Urso, Brian Ach)

What colors will you be stocking up on next season? Tell us in the comments!

23 “It" Girl Knee High Boots For Your Fall Wardrobe

Ring! Ring! Ring! Autumn’s calling, and she’s here to stay for the next few months! September 23 marked the start of the first day of fall and we couldn’t be more ecstatic. What better way to sashay into our favorite season – besides stocking up on spiced candles, spooky home decor, and adorable mugs – than with a brand-new pair of stompers?

While ankle booties and over-the-knee boots will also have a special place in our closets, it’s without a doubt knee-high boot autumn according to our fav “It” girls. After scouring the internet for the perfect pair of knee-high boots for every occasion, our exhaustive list is here. From Renaissance tour-worthy razzle dazzle to classic comfort, we’ve got you covered.

Square Toe Knee High Boots

Vince Camuto Sangeti Knee High Boot

Has anyone else been thinking about hightailing it back to 1999? Trinity from The Matrix instantly comes to mind!

Vagabond Shoemakers Ansie Knee High Boot

When Gigi Hadid cosigns a boot under $300, we give respect where respect is due. It's giving model off-duty!

ALOHAS East Leather Knee High Boot

We are obsessed with the color blocking on these retro beauties.

Aerosoles Micah Boot

Shades of red are trending this fall, and this burgundy ( or should we say cherry mocha) boot is a great way to add it into your wardrobe.

Marc Fisher LTD Ofida Knee High Boot

Haven't you heard? Biker chic is in and these moto boots by Marc Fisher are bound to up the ante on your fits this Fall.

Frye Campus 14L Boots

If you haven't heard, Frye is one of THE "It girl" boots of the season. Made to last, these go to boots will be in your closet for many seasons to come.

Pointed Toe Knee High Boots

Schutz Mikki Over-The-Knee Boots

Okay, while these are technically over-the-knee, she gets an honorary spot on the list for since you can easily fold the material down. We love versatility!

Everlane The Knee-High Banana Heel Boot

The unique banana heel boot from Everlane exudes timeless style.

Zara SLOUCHY DENIM BOOTS

Say what you want, but a denim-on-denim moment is in order!

Linea Paola Kyra Tall Boot

These knee high boots from Linea Paola can only be described as sleek. And we're absolutely loving this warm grey hue!

Franco Sarto Sylvia Knee High Boot

Be warned: all that you touch might turn into gold. King Midas wishes that he had these boots!

Vince Camuto Alinkay Boot

Fall is the season of suede and we're styling this pair with everything we can.

Naturalizer Kalina Boot

A cute boot shouldn't have to cost you comfort! Get from point A to point B in a breeze with this trendy style from Naturalizer.

Knee High Cowgirl Boots

Dolce Vita Kamryn Western Boot

Enter the steel toe stunners, a.k.a. your new favorite cowboy boot of the season.

Dirty Laundry Upwind Metallic Western Boot

In our book, metallic counts as a neutral.

Lug Knee High Boots

Dirty Laundry Veelo Knee High Platform Boot

Whoever said that wearing white after Labor Day was a crime never met these creamy Veelo boots from Dirty Laundry! If your Fall color palate stays in neutral, then these are for you.

Lucky Brand Cirilia Knee High Boot

There's absolutely no debating that black boots are the go-to, but sometimes a Fall look calls for a more mocha hue.

Rhodes Tall Boots

Put your best foot forward in these glossy burgundy boots from Free People!

Mercella Carnegie Knee-High Boots

These boots are just effortlessly cool, with the geometric soles and slip-on style. They're giving, "Oh these? I just pulled them on!"

Knee High Rain Boots

Hunter Original Tall Rain Boot

Rain boots are an absolute must for transitional weather. We suggest opting for knee-high rain boots to avoid soaked socks and battles lost with unsuspecting puddles.

Burberry Simeon Check Waterproof Rain Boot

If you're down to splurge, this chic pair of rain boots from Burberry are worth every pretty penny.

Lace-up Knee High Boots

Doc Marten Audrick Tall Lace Up Boots

With the 90s always making a comeback, I have my fingers crossed for a grunge girl Fall! Sure, you'll probably have to break these bad boys in, but Doc Martens are most definitely worth it.

Jeffrey Campbell Aluma Knee High Boot

What would a Fall boot roundup be without a witchy pair for the season?

Minnetonka Front Lace Knee High Boots

in case you missed it, moccasins come in knee high and we're living for it!

Platform Knee High Boots

Azalea Wang Sutton Platform Boot

Enter THE Bratz boot! In a year where pink and furry have reigned supreme, the girls whose girlhood nostalgia starts with Sasha, Chloe, Yasmin, and Jade deserve a little representation.

Round Toe Knee High Boots

H&M Knee-High Heeled Boots

When it comes to affordable basics that rival high-priced wares, H&M always delivers.

Madewell The Selina Tall Boot

The Selina boot from Madewell is a girl's buttercream dream!

Croc Print Boots

ASOS DESIGN Campbell pull-on knee boots

No need to get green with envy — just add these to your cart! The texture and color combo are sure to make a statement this fall!

Nordstrom Alina Reptile Embossed Knee High Stiletto Boot

Embossed in a subtle yet chic take on croc print, these boots are the perfect way to sneak a little animal print into the Fall mix.

Schutz Maryana Block Pointed Toe Knee High Boot

Listen, if there's one embossed detailing we can't live without, it's croc print!

Franco Sarto Talfer Wide Calf Boot

Here's a low heel croc option for the girlies who don't want the extra boost.

Have a case of the shoppies? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to know what's worth adding to your cart every week!

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

Header images via Urban Outfitters, Madewell, Everlane

Mandy Teefey’s Go-To Hack Will Make Social Media Suck Less

We all have big feelings. And thanks to social media and rising levels of anxiety, those feelings, well, feel bigger than ever. That’s exactly where resources like Wondermind come in. The self-proclaimed “mental health ecosystem” is all about exploring, discussing, and navigating our emotions together. This Mental Health Awareness Month, Wondermind wants you to live your mental health journey in community because Mandy Teefey, who co-founded the company with daughter Selena Gomez, knows what it’s like to walk that journey alone.

Image via Wondermind

“As I went through a very long journey of finding I did have a mental health diagnosis — and then I was misdiagnosed and then I had to go through that — I was blessed to have the resources to do that,” Teefey, who received an ADHD and trauma diagnosis after a 20-year bipolar misdiagnosis, says. “Whenever I started my journey of discovering what mental condition I had…I didn't have anybody to lean into or explain the way I was feeling.”

While these personal experiences helped Teefey better understand mental health, it wasn’t until she produced Netflix’s 2017 series 13 Reasons Whythat she saw just how far the mental health conversation goes. The hit show went viral almost as soon as it aired because of its realistic depiction of mental health and all the aftershocks of trauma.

“After we did 13 Reasons Why and saw the reaction and the need for that support, me and Selena were trying to really figure out what could be next,” Teefey says. “Everybody was releasing things [at] different times. It's like you have to have 12 apps to have a program, and then remember to use them all. So that's when we decided to create a mental fitness ecosystem. So it's all-encompassing, but there's something for everyone.”

“We're not a medicinal company [but] we do have an advisory committee that oversees everything that we do,” Teefey continues. “We're technically not doctors, but we are for everyone when it comes to feelings. Everybody has feelings and they can go to our content hub and just kind of explore that for a while.”

Image via Brit + Co

Admittedly, that exploration bit is pretty fun. The articles are inspiring, and the worksheets (which are each created by an expert) are incredibly helpful. Seeing every program, article, and podcast episode feels like an opportunity to start fresh, but once you have all the ideas in front of you, what do you actually do? Teefey recommends journaling, even if it’s just a sentence every day. (She also loves watching journaling videos from Planning Annie: “Anytime I'm feeling sad or like a little unmotivated, I put her on.”)

Journaling every day, even if your entries are short, allows you to track your mood over an extended period of time. If you notice a consistent sadness, for example, it could be a sign it’s time to check in with your doctor. Plus, journaling can help prepare you for the conversations mental health appointments bring up.

“Sometimes if you go into a therapy session and you're not really settled or concrete in who you are and what may be going on, you might go through what I went through, which is being misdiagnosed,” Teefey says. “It's more important for you to know who you are and what you need prior to going in. So you can give that to them instead of them guessing and working around that process with you.”

Image via Brit + Co

Establishing a consistent routine can help decrease your stress, whether you’re eating the same breakfast every day, or you stick to a tried and true skincare regimen like Sydney Sweeney’s Cassie does on Euphoria. I immediately thought of this teen drama when Mandy Teefey mentioned how important her 4 a.m. routine is. But while Cassie spends time doing her skincare and makeup, Teefey spends time nurturing her soul.

“If I don't have [that routine], I'm usually really off kilter,” she says. “So I get up at 4 when everyone's still asleep, and I found that time could be about me, and I'm not taking it away from anybody. And so that's really what helped me be more grounded throughout the day.”

I can attest that my own quiet time in the morning is vital for a successful day — as is knowing what my boundaries need to be. Because honestly, boundaries can change daily! Teefey and I both acknowledge we have to stay away from sad music to protect our mental health, and she also recommends staying off social media when you feel your mental health struggling.

“I can go three days without looking at social media and then when I go on there, I start having anxiety because I'm like, ‘Oh my gosh, I haven't liked this person. I haven't even liked our own pictures [for] Wondermind.’ And then I start feeling guilty,” she says. “There's just some kind of [expectation] to do social media and you really don't. Not everybody needs to know everything, you know? There's beauty in privacy.”

Even Selena Gomez admitted at the 2024 Time100 Summit that taking time off Instagram "was the most rewarding gift I gave myself."

Image via Brit + Co

The idea of staying off social media is way easier said than done (speaking from first hand experience here). If you feel like you’re drowning in engagement announcements, anxiety-inducing news, and FOMO, Teefey recommends keeping tabs on your reactions to gauge when it’s time to take a serious break.

“If it invokes any emotion that is a negative emotion, I [know] it's not worth being angry about, it's not worth losing sleep about,” she says. “It just feels like there's an unintentional taunting on social media and, ‘Wait a minute, is that about me?’ You don't know this person and then you start running with all this stuff in your mind.”

Like every area of life, social media is all about balance, and if you’re looking to unplug while still staying informed, Mandy Teefey recommends bringing a journal with you when doing your morning news scroll — that way, you can process emotions while keeping tabs on what’s happening. “If anything evokes emotion, I'm meditating during the quiet time,” she says.

Studies have found journaling can help decrease your anxiety, and that it can help you break obsessive thought cycles. And while you’re the only one who can process your thoughts and emotions, it’s important not to isolate yourself from your community — especially when you’re struggling. “You gotta build trust and you gotta build the boundary of who you volunteer [your] help to,” she says.

When it comes to her own daughters, Mandy Teefey knows it’s a process. “You have to work with them and meet them where they're at, and then see the help they need and don't assume [they’re going through] what you went through,” she says. “You've got to really understand them to be able to give that advice.”

Image via Natalie Rhea

In her own life, Mandy Teefey got to experience building that trust first-hand with Selena Gomez! “One time it was very, very cold in California and me and Selena were on the opposite sides of the pool,” she says. “We were in sweats and she says, ‘Do you trust me?’ And I went, ‘Yeah.’ And she goes ‘Okay, if you trust me, on three, we're gonna jump in this ice cold pool.’”

While Teefey wasn’t convinced, she trusted Gomez, and they both ended up in the freezing cold water! Which is both a funny story and a fond memory: “We couldn't get out of the pool because [our clothes were] so heavy. It was madness!”

“There's a lot of things I know my daughters don't tell me and that's their right,” she continues. “It's so sensitive between teenagers — especially teenagers — and their parents. They're going through that phase and they don't want to be around them and they don't wanna tell them things. It's definitely not easy but maybe put some feelers out there and just make sure that they know you're there and make it okay to have these conversations.”

Thanks to all this actionable advice, we know that Mental Health Awareness month isn’t limited to TikTok videos or Instagram posts we can reshare. There are real tips we can use to take care of ourselves — and a place to go when we need a boost.

If you're struggling with your mental health, check in with your doctor or check out the mental health resources Wondermind offers. You can also use Psychology Today to find a therapist near you.

Lead image via Getty

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It's Official: "Cowgirl Copper" is The Hair Color of Fall 2023

You've heard of latte makeup, hot chocolate nails, and the likes, but "Cowgirl Copper" hair isn't just another trend with a buzzy nickname slapped on it. In fact, copper hues have been on the rise since 2020, and we don't see it stopping anytime soon. And it's even giving nostalgia! It's the bold, untamed spirit of Jessie, the fearless cowgirl from Toy Story, brought to life in a hair color that's as fiery as her character. Forget the notion that blondes have more fun — this season, redheads steal the show with their sizzling, head-turning hues, and "Cowgirl Copper" is at the forefront of this fiery movement.

What is Cowgirl Copper Hair?

Photo via Pexels/Lany-Jade Mondou

The exact shade of "Cowgirl Copper" may not have a strict definition, but after scrolling through countless #cowboycopper posts on TikTok, one thing is clear — it's a range of natural red tones that aim to capture the essence of rust. From warm strawberry blonds to rich mahogany browns, this trend encompasses a spectrum of captivating hues that exude confidence and charisma.

Finding Your Cowgirl Copper Hair Look

Now, your hairstylist may not instantly grasp the concept of "Cowgirl Copper" hair when you sit in the chair, but don't fret — we've got your back. To ensure you don't end up with a hair color disaster, we've curated a collection of 10 celebrity inspo pics that perfectly encapsulate this trend. Take these photos along to your next salon visit and watch your hairstylist work their magic, bringing the wild beauty of "Cowgirl Copper" to life.

Riley Keough

Image via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

We would be lying if we said the Daisy Jones & The Six starlet, Riley Keough's, copper hair color didn't inspire this entire article.

Phoebe Dynevor

Image via Kate Green/Getty Images

The Fair Play and Bridgerton leading lady looks breathtaking in red. This color suits her so well!

Zendaya

Image via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

When Challengers star Zendaya stepped out in this deep copper hair color, she instantly channeled Mary Jane, and there was no going back.

Emma Roberts

Image via Harrison/Getty Images

While we love her signature blonde, Emma rocks the redhead look so well, you'd think it runs in the family. 😉

SZA

Image via Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for REVOLT

SZA is a vision in this copper 'fro, and we're on our knees begging for her to bring it back!

Rihanna

Image via Mike Coppola/Getty Images

Bad Gal RiRI is always going to be the ambassador of red in any intensity, but we absolutely love her in this copper hair color!

Sophie Turner

Image via Dominic Lipinski/Getty Images

Undeniable proof that the color red was made for Sophie Turner — she's so electrifying! Your Honor, we rest our case.

Emma Stone

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

If there's one thing that we've learned from Easy A and La La Land is that Emma Stone will always have us contemplating a hair color change.

Sydney Sweeney

Image via Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Still teetering on the edge of strawberry blonde, Sydney's light copper tresses almost made us forget about her iconic platinum...almost.

Ice Spice

Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

Ice Spice takes the cake for coming through as the copper hair inspo for the curly girls. (Okay, to be fair, it is in the name...)

Good hair inspo can be hard to come by — let us make that easier, and sign up for our email newsletter!

Header image via Kate Green/Getty Images, Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images, Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

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Ryan Gosling Is The Ultimate Girl Dad

After The Gray Man and a year full of Barbie and Ken, The Fall Guy (plus the upcoming Ocean's 11 prequelwith Margot Robbie) continues to prove Ryan Gosling is THE definition of a star. And between his friendship with Emma Stone and his relationship with Eva Mendes,Ryan seems like the kind of guy we'd all want to be best friends with — and not just because of his endless #Kenergy.

Not only is Ryan the sweetest partner, he's also the ultimate girl dad to daughters Esmeralda and Amada. Their "interest in Barbie and disinterest in Ken," as Ryan tells People, get him to Barbieland in the first place, but he also just revealed they "asked specifically" he avoid one The Fall Guy stunt. “My kids didn't want me to be set on fire,” he says. “Even though I said, ‘Well, it's actually, technically the safer thing to do because there's a lot of protective stuff involved, [they] were like, ‘No. No fire.’ So I didn't do it.”

It's clear that Ryan Gosling's children are spitfires and I love to see it! Here's everything you need to know about Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's kids.

How many children do Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes have?

Image via Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes have two children, Esmerelda Amada and Amada Lee. Amada was named after Eva's grandmother — both my sister and I have family names and I love seeing the way different families carry on that tradition!

How old are Ryan Gosling's kids?

Image via Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for Universal Pictures

Esmerelda was born in September 2014, meaning she'll turn 10 this fall. Amada just turned 8 at the end of April!

How does Ryan Gosling prioritize his kids?

Image via Lionsgate

In his recent profile with WSJ, Ryan Gosling revealed he only picks roles that will benefit his whole family. "I don't really take roles that are going to put me in some kind of dark place," Ryan says. "The decisions I make, I make them with Eva and we make them with our family in mind first."

"I think La La Landwas the first," he continues. "It was sort of like, 'Oh this will be fun for them too, because even though they're not coming to set, we're practicing piano every day or we're dancing or we're singing.'"

Every couple needs to figure out what prioritizing their kids looks like for them, and considering how much I love all Ryan's recent roles, I'd say this is a shift that benefits everyone ;).

When did Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes have their daughters?

Image via Andrew Toth/Getty Images for New York & Company

Eva Mendes gave birth to Esmerelda on September 12, 2014 and later had Amada on April 29, 2016.

Are Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes still together?

Image via Sonia Recchia/Getty Images

Yes, Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes are still going strong, and thank goodness. Eva just revealed that Ryan provides a ton of support for her. "When I was 40, it was a big deal for people when I was pregnant, and it wasn't for me," she tells People. "And then I was 42 and I was pregnant with my second one and people were like, 'Oh my God, you're going to be so tired. That's why people have kids in their 20s.' I was like, that's the most sorry, asinine thing I've ever heard."

"[Ryan supports me] in all the ways I need to be supported," she continues. "He's got me in all the ways."

How has fatherhood affected Ryan Gosling?

Image via Hector Vivas/Getty Images

Considering Ryan Gosling's daughters are such a huge part of his life now, it's hard to believe that earlier in life, he wasn't sure he wanted kids. "After I met Eva, I realized that I just didn’t want to have kids without her," he tells GQ. "And there were moments on The Place Beyond the Pines where we were pretending to be a family, and I didn’t really want it to be pretend anymore." Now, I'm going to need you to pause and reread that quote because I can't believe that's a real sentence. I'm obsessed!

A source also told People in 2023 that "Ryan is such a fun dad. He is goofy and his girls love it."

Via WSJ, we also know that since Ryan Gosling's kids have started learning Spanish, they now call him Papi. "It kills me every time," he says. "There's just nothing, nothing better than that."

What has Eva Mendes said about their daughters?

Image via Eva Mendes/Instagram

Eva Mendes is just as obsessed with her and Ryan Gosling's children as he is, and she's talked about how they make life so much better. "Oh April…I have such a complicated relationship with you," she says on Instagram. "[April 2] would have been my brother’s birthday…..in a couple of weeks from now is the day we lost him…but then, the end of April we got the biggest blessing of all, my little girl was born 8 years ago. I hate you April. But I love you more."

Check out our email newsletter for the latest celebrity news and trending content, and check back here for the latest news on Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's kids!

Lead image via Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for Universal Pictures

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Dealing With Stubborn Bloating? An Expert Shares How To Banish It

Bloating is a common digestive issue that can make you feel sluggish, uncomfortable, and self-conscious. While bloating is often caused by overeating, there are other factors that can contribute to this uncomfortable sensation, such as consuming gas-producing foods or experiencing hormonal changes.

The thing is that bloating happens to the best of us so it doesn't mean you're weird if you haven't figured out what's causing your tummy issues. Between weight fluctuations and hormonal changes post-birth, I still haven't cracked the 'happy digestive system' code. But, that lack of knowledge is no match for the expertise of Dr. Brynna Connor, MD — a Healthcare Ambassador at NorthWest Pharmacy.

Based in Austin, Texas where she has her own private practice, Dr. Connor is a member of the Texas Academy of Family Practice, the American Academy of Family Practice, and the Texas Medical Association. In other words, she has nearly two decades worth of medical experience that makes her the right person to answer all our "How to get rid of bloating" questions.

Whether you're dealing with the occasional bloat or chronic digestive issues, Dr. Connor has expert tips to help you find relief and get back to enjoying healthy meals that your body loves.

How can I tell if I'm bloated?

Image via Polina Zimmerman/Pexels

Before I became a mom, it was easy for me to recognize the immediate signs of bloating. I only experienced it during PMS and the week of my cycle, but it always went away for a few weeks. Not only that, I used to be able to pinpoint which foods were the culprit of horrific period cramps and the inevitable gassiness that seemed to make my cycles 10x worse. Now, things are up in the air and I'm joining the ranks of other curious women who want to know what's considered bloating.

Dr. Connor says, "There are various symptoms a woman may experience if she’s bloated. Bloating may make you feel like your stomach is tight or full and can cause abdominal pain, swollen/distended stomach, flatulence, belching, and/or stomach cramps. It’s not uncommon to experience multiple symptoms of bloating at once."

I don't think I need to mention just how uncomfortable things can feel when experiencing multiple bloating symptoms.

What triggers bloating symptoms?

Image via cottonbro studio/Pexels

I mentioned my daily cycle as one of the reasons I knew I used to experience bloating, but there are more things that can trigger it. "Bloating occurs when your gastrointestinal or digestive system(s) are filled with gas or liquid and there are six common potential causes," says Dr. Connor.

She lists having gas as one of the first reasons. "It’s normal to experience symptoms of excess gas, especially after eating and/or drinking as you may have also swallowed small amounts of air. Certain factors may increase the likelihood that you experience bloating after eating, such as chewing gum, drinking carbonated beverages, and/or eating or drinking too fast."

Hearing this reminds me of the moments I was told to slow down when eating my food as a little girl.

Image via Maksim Goncharenok/Pexels

There's also the chance that you have a food intolerance. I only speak for myself when I say that I'm only able to consume dairy in small increments and tomato sauce? Well, I can just forget that because lately my stomach skips bloating and heads right to nausea. What gives, you ask?

Dr. Connor says, "You can experience bloating if your digestive system has trouble breaking down certain foods. Common food intolerances that can lead to bloating include lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and/or fructose intolerance." Feeling mind-blown about possibly having a fructose intolerance? Same here, but Dr. Connor explains what happens when our body breaks down certain foods.

"There are also chemicals found in particular foods that can increase the chances of bloating after they’re ingested, including histamine (found in wine and cheese), caffeine, alcohol, sulfites (found in beer and wine), and monosodium glutamate (MSG – found in ripe fruit and cured meat)," she says.

If you're hearing someone play the world's smallest violin, it's me mourning the fact that my two greatest loves — wine and cheese — may not be the best things to consume together.

Image via Miriam Alonso/Pexels

I can say it's been a while since I've been constipated, but only because my doctor all but demanded that I start taking probiotics and eating more probiotic-rich foods. Still, it always sucks when constipation happens which explains the bloating that tends to follow.

"When your large intestine absorbs too much water from your stool, it becomes harder and more difficult to pass. The resulting buildup of stool in your colon can lead to bloating, swelling, and stomach/abdominal pain, and you’re particularly susceptible to constipation if you’re not getting enough fiber, water, or exercise. Changes to your daily routine or an increased level of stress can also contribute to constipation and bloating," says Dr. Connor.

Somehow this is oddly comforting to know that stress can also be a culprit.

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Like I mentioned before, starting your period is one of the reasons you can experience bloat. What Dr. Connor says next will occupy a space in your mind if you're never considered what happens during that special time of the month.

"Certain hormones, like estrogen, can cause your body to hold onto water, which can cause swelling in the abdomen. Estrogen can also interact with progesterone in your digestive system, leading to increased gas in your intestines. Bloating prior to your period may also be caused by the increase in volume in your uterus just before your period starts," she says.

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I've been prescribed different medications after two of my surgeries and found that I experienced unusual bloating that led to horrific cycles. Dr. Connor says there's a reason why certain medications or supplements can cause this to happen.

"...fiber supplements can cause bloating or constipation when the supplement isn’t taken with enough water. Other medications that can lead to bloating and/or constipation include opioids like hydrocodone or oxycodone, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen, iron supplements, and antihistamines like Benadryl," she offers.

Although I no longer take Benadryl, I can confirm I experienced a ton of bloating when trying to combat my allergies.

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Lastly, Dr. Connor says there could be underlying medical reason you're experiencing bloating. "People living with gastrointestinal diseases like Celiac Disease, an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome are more likely to experience bloating, excess gas, and constipation."

She also says, "Underlying liver disease or cancers can also cause bloating in the abdomen, which is why you should talk to your doctor if you are experiencing prolonged symptoms associated with bloating, or if you’re having any additional symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, or pelvic pain, blood in your stool, difficulty swallowing, or any excess fatigue or unexplained weight loss."

What are some ways to reduce bloating in general and during PMS/menstrual cycles?

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Dr. Connor says managing bloating can depend on what's triggering your symptoms. It's always best to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you concerned about your digestive health, but there are things you can do at home to provide some relief.

"At-home solutions include over-the-counter (OTC) medications like Gas-X or antacids that can be taken together or separately. Probiotics can also help reduce gas and restore the balance of bacteria in your digestive tract. Herbal remedies like peppermint, chamomile tea, or turmeric, can aid digestion, and peppermint oil can help relax muscles in the stomach that aid in the passing of gas."

She also suggests that you increase your fiber intake, incorporate exercise in your routine, and stay hydrated.

By taking steps to reduce bloating, you can improve your overall health and feel more comfortable in your daily life.

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This post has been updated.

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