America’s Test Kitchen’s Foolproof Method for Oven-Roasting Fries

Anna Monette Roberts
Jan 19, 2019

America’s Test Kitchen prides itself on intensive recipe developing and product testing, which is why we’ve partnered with them to share a few foolproof recipes, cooking tips, and kitchen gadget recommendations with Brit + Co.

There’s never a day french fries don’t sound amazing (duh!), but what’s the science behind what makes them so dang crisp-licious, and why does it seem so impossible to achieve that same texture at home? America’s Test Kitchen dispels all that below in the intro for its oven-roasted potatoes recipe so you can achieve fry-like potato wedges in your oven, no deep-frying necessary. After learning this technique and the two key ingredients that make it special, you can get your potato fix at home — no drive-thru necessary.

Thick-Cut Oven Fries for Two

(Serves 2)

Why This Recipe Works: When traditional French fries are fried, water is rapidly driven out of the starch cells at the surface of the potato, leaving behind tiny cavities. It’s these cavities that create a delicate, crispy crust. Since oven fries don’t heat fast enough for air pockets to form, we instead coat the potatoes in a cornstarch slurry that crisps up like a deep-fried fry would. We arranged the coated planks on a rimmed baked sheet that we coated with both vegetable oil spray and vegetable oil; the former contains a surfactant called lecithin, which prevents the oil from pooling and, in turn, prevents the potatoes from sticking. Using the oil spray also allowed us to use only 3 tablespoons of oil, just enough to evenly coat the fries. Covering the baking sheet with aluminum foil for the first half of cooking ensures that the potatoes are fully tender by the time they are browned.

Notes for the Cook: Choose potatoes that are 4 to 6 inches in length to ensure well-proportioned fries. Trimming thin slices from the ends of the potatoes in step 2 ensures that each fry has two flat surfaces for even browning. This recipe’s success is dependent on a heavy-duty rimmed baking sheet that will not warp in the heat of the oven. Spraying the sheet with vegetable oil spray will help the oil spread evenly and prevent sticking. The rate at which the potatoes brown is dependent on your baking sheet and oven. After removing the aluminum foil from the baking sheet in step 5, monitor the color of the potatoes carefully to prevent scorching.

Ingredients:

  • vegetable oil spray
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, unpeeled
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • salt

Directions:

1. Adjust oven rack to lowest position and heat oven to 425°F. Generously spray rimmed baking sheet with vegetable oil spray. Pour oil into prepared sheet and tilt until surface is evenly coated with oil.

2. Halve potatoes lengthwise and turn halves cut sides down on cutting board. Trim a thin slice from both long sides of each potato half; discard trimmings. Slice potatoes lengthwise into 1/3- to 1/2-inch-thick planks.

3. Combine 1/3 cup water and cornstarch in large bowl, making sure no lumps of cornstarch remain on bottom of bowl. Microwave, stirring every 20 seconds, until mixture begins to thicken, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from microwave and continue to stir until mixture thickens to pudding-like consistency. (If necessary, add up to 1 tablespoon water to achieve correct consistency.)

4. Transfer potatoes to bowl with cornstarch mixture and toss until each plank is evenly coated. Arrange planks on prepared sheet, leaving small gaps between planks. (Some cornstarch mixture will remain in bowl.) Cover sheet tightly with lightly greased aluminum foil and bake for 12 minutes.

5. Remove foil from sheet and bake until bottom of each fry is golden brown, 7 to 15 minutes. Remove sheet from oven and, using thin metal spatula, carefully flip each fry. Return sheet to oven and continue to bake until second sides are golden brown, 7 to 15 minutes longer.

6. Sprinkle fries with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Using spatula, carefully toss fries to distribute salt.

7. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate and season with salt to taste. Serve.

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(Photos and recipe via America’s Test Kitchen)

21 Fun & Creative Recipes to Spice Up Boring Baked Chicken Breast

If you've done it once, you've done it a million times. You come home late from work, throw some salt and pepper on a chicken breast and pop it in the oven. BORING! You could plan ahead and make slow cooker chicken in the morning, but what are the chances you're going to remember that? It's time for you step up your game and in a big way. If you want to love your dinner so much you crave leftovers the next day, keep reading for 21 baked chicken breast recipes that are a welcome change from the drab poultry you're used to.

Honey Mustard Chicken

All you need is 35 minutes and one sheet pan for this versatile and delicious dish. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Sriracha Chicken Breast

Mix Sriracha with honey and soy sauce to create a sweet and spicy coating you’ll want to slather all over your chicken. (via The Cookie Writer)

Baked Spinach Provolone Chicken Breasts

When your chicken dish provides you with protein and a serving of veggies, you’re winning dinner. Throw some brown rice on to go with it and your whole effortless meal is ready in under 30 minutes. (via Tastefulventure)

Smothered Baked Chicken With Creamed Spinach, Bacon and Mushrooms

We had you at smothered, didn’t we? Some days just call for an indulging AF dinner with all the cheese and bacon. For those nights, you need this dish. (via Julia’s Album)

Ranch Cheddar Chicken

This homemade version of Shake ‘N Bake is just as easy as popping open a box, but *way* tastier. Just prepare for the kid-friendly dish to be requested on repeat. (via Everyday Dishes)

Honey Horseradish Chicken

The sweet honey combines so well with the spicy horseradish in this recipe! Best part is, it only takes 30 minutes to make. (via Averie Cooks)

Baked Paprika-Parmesan Chicken

That crust is so crispy you can almost hear the crunch from your laptop. It’s hard to believe that there are no breadcrumbs and no deep-frying is necessary. (via Sugar Apron)

Cheesy Mustard Baked Chicken Breasts

That whole grain mustard in your fridge has saved your butt on more than one occasion. When combined with sharp white cheddar and Parmesan, it creates a luxurious, tangy sauce that your chicken breast will sop up. (via Foodiecrush)

One Dish Chicken Bake

You can’t go wrong when you nestle your chicken between a bed of tomatoes and a blanket of mozzarella. Serve on top of pasta for a simple and easy Italian-inspired dinner. (via Diethood)

Baked Chicken Fajita Roll-Ups

If you’re going low-carb, you don’t have to give up fajita night. These roll-ups have all of the flavors you *love* but sans tortilla. Try them with a side of cauliflower rice. (via Eat Yourself Skinny)

Cilantro-Lime Chicken

Nothing perks up chicken quite like the combination of cilantro-lime. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes while you unwind, and it’ll be ready to pop in the oven when you’re ready to eat. (via Rasa Malaysia)

Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken

You won’t believe how juicy and flavorful this chicken turns out. TBH, it’s all thanks to that creamy layer of Asiago-garlic mayo that’s baked on top. (via The Recipe Critic)

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Why coat your chicken with flour when Parmesan and breadcrumbs are an option? Before you dredge them in the eggs, season it liberally with fresh garlic to impart even more flavor. (via Taste and See)

Caprese Stuffed Chicken Foil Packs

Tomatoes, mozzarella and basil are a classic trio that livens up any dish. As if this recipe couldn’t be any easier, the cleanup is virtually eliminated as well. (via The Wholesome Dish)

Super Moist Oven Baked BBQ Chicken

A steady application of BBQ sauce while cooking is the secret to these perfectly sticky breasts. (via Heather Likes Food)

Basil Pesto Chicken

This basil pesto chicken is bursting with flavor and so simple to make. You can marinate it ahead of time for the perfect easy weeknight dinner. (via Real Food Dietitians)

Tuscan Chicken with Saffron Cream Rice

This recipe tastes like something you'd get straight from a gourmet restaurant. Seriously, it's that good. (via Vikalinka)

Easy Healthy Baked Lemon Chicken

Once you make this healthy baked chicken, you’ll never be without fresh lemons again. Smash a few sweet potatoes and steam a bag of frozen broccoli to round out a nutritious dinner. (via Creme de la Crumb)

Baked Cajun Chicken Breasts Recipe

Get ready for your taste buds to be lit on fire. Heads up, you’ll want to make extra so you can have an epic cajun chicken sandwich for lunch the next day. (via Gal on a Mission)

Baked Balsamic Chicken

Balsamic vinegar is for so much more than dressing your salad. Reduce it with honey, sugar and salt to get a ridiculous glaze that would taste good on a shoe. Thankfully, chicken is even tastier. (via Creme de la Crumb)

Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Cream cheese, bacon and chicken, oh my! This basic recipe is great for building upon with your favorite flavors. For a healthy twist, try giving spinach and artichokes a whirl. (via Homemade Hooplah)


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This article has been updated from a previous post.

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Miles & Keleigh Teller’s Hilarious Nod To Ryan Gosling Will Make You LOL

Met Gala Monday has arrived, and it's making me think about all my favorite red carpet couples — Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, Shaun White and Nina Dobrev, Tom Holland and Zendaya (who's co-chairing the Gala this year!). But one of the couples at the top of my list is Miles and Keleigh Teller. This couple (who's BFF's with Taylor Swift, by the way) never miss a hot red carpet look but they're also so sweet and goofy. Fingers crossed they show up at the Gala tonight, but until then, keep reading for their cutest relationship moments!

Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller's Full Relationship Timeline

Image via Jason Merritt/Getty Images for MTV

May 11, 2013 — Miles Teller And Keleigh Sperry Meet

Miles Teller and his future wife Keleigh met at an after party for The Black Keys in 2013, and immediately clicked. "I told my buddy, 'I think I'm going to be with this girl for a long time,'" Miles tells People in 2017.

He also told Vogue in 2019 that he knew she was the one right after they met. "Keleigh had caught my eye early in the night, and we talked," he says. "I didn't think it went well, but after a few more attempts, I got her to dance with me, and a week later, we went on a date."

“He was so charming and charismatic,” Keleigh tells Vogue. “I adored him from the first moment we met.”

Image via Keleigh Teller/Instagram

August 20, 2017 — Miles Teller Proposes To Keleigh Sperry

While on a trip to South Africa, Miles Teller proposed to Keleigh, starting the next chapter of their life! Except, the proposal didn't initially go as planned. "You do a coffee break after you do the morning sunrise safari and I said, ‘OK, wherever we’re going to be at, tie a rose to a tree and then put this note [with the day we started dating and the day we got engaged] on there,’" Miles says on an episode of Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. "So, we had our coffee break and she sees the flower [and] she thought someone had died. She thought it was an in memoriam kind of thing, and I’m just, like, staring.”

"I'll never get the image out of my head of him down on one knee with a tear in his eye," Keleigh told People. "He really thought about every detail and was so nervous!"

Image via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

September 1, 2019 — Miles and Keleigh Teller Get Married

I thought this relationship couldn't get any more perfect, and then Miles and Keleigh Teller ended up getting married in Hawaii. The dreamy ceremony took place on Maui, and in addition to a beautiful Monique Lhuillier gown, Keleigh wore a necklace from her mom that all her sisters also wore when they got married. (Don't mind me, just brushing a tear from my eye!)

Image via Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for BFI

September 1, 2020 — Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller Celebrate Their Wedding Anniversary

Everyday is a good day to celebrate your partner, and anniversaries are even more of an excuse! To celebrate their one-year, Miles and Keleigh Teller spent some time oceanside. "Happy 1 yr anniversary to my all-time love @keleighsperry," Miles tweeted. "You and me til the end, baby."

"1 year ago, till the end," Keleigh Teller said in her own Instagram post.

Image via Jason Merritt/Getty Images

December 21, 2020 — Miles Teller Reveals Keleigh Teller Always Has His Back

While speaking with Men's Health at the end of 2020, Miles revealed just how strong his marriage to Keleigh had become (and how they added a lemon tree, hydrangeas, and roses to their backyard!). "She keeps me calm. It's pretty great," he says. "We are really great. Once you get married and you make that ultimate commitment, life is just a lot less stressful. You just know that person is always going to be there."

Image via Christopher Polk/Getty Images for MTV

February 14, 2021 — Keleigh Teller Celebrates Valentine's Day

To celebrate their second Valentine's Day as a married couple, Keleigh wrote a beautiful message to Miles on Instagram. "8 years of being your valentine," she says. "I love you, the one I want to go through time with." I cannot get enough of this couple! Swoon!

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

May 25, 2021 — Miles and Keleigh Teller Vacation With Shailene Woodley and Aaron Rodgers

In addition to the critically-acclaimed Top Gun: Maverick and Whiplash, you probably recognize Miles Teller from the Divergent series. Well, apparently he still keeps in touch with his co-stars, and this vacation proves it! Ahead of the summer of 2021, Miles and Keleigh Teller took a trip to Hawaii with Shailene Woodley and her then-boyfriend Aaron Rogers (of Green Pay Packers fame).

Image via Jason Koerner/Getty Images

September 1, 2021 — Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller Celebrate Their 2nd Anniversary As A Married Couple

This social media savvy couple celebrated each other on their second anniversary, and their messages were the sweetest yet! "2 years ago today, I married the woman of my dreams," Miles tweeted. "There isn't a day that goes by where I'm not reminded of how much I truly love and adore you. Thank you for your kindness and unconditional support, Keleigh. I would be lost without you."

"Happy anniversary my booshki," Keleigh wrote on Instagram. "Not sure how to put 8 years into 10 photos but I love you forever more thanks for being a stud of a husband, I adore you."

Image via Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

November 15, 2021 — Miles and Keleigh Teller Star In Taylor Swift's Music Video

All of Taylor Swift's music videos are amazing in their own right but my personal favorite is "I Bet You Think About Me" from the Red (Taylor's Version) era. The costumes are beautiful, Blake Lively's direction is perfect, and the fact that Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller are in the video makes it even better!

"So grateful to Miles for being the greatest dance partner and friend to me," Taylor wrote on Instagram at the time. "And @keleighteller, who is the coolest living human on planet earth. The bride was willing to risk it all."

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

May 5, 2022 — Miles Teller's Wife Keleigh Celebrates Top Gun: Maverick

Top Gun was one of the hottest movies of 2022, and to celebrate its release, Keleigh showed up for her husband time and time again! "Loving the Rooster love! Miles says thank you to everyone who has seen the film and he shares in this moment with you," she says in one Instagram post, captioning another, "Just.. memories. so proud of you all. Congrats!!"

Image via Lia Toby/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures

July 20, 2022 — Keleigh Teller Asks Miles Teller To Shave His Mustache

As much as Top Gun fans loved Miles Teller's mustache (and how much it made him look like his onscreen dad Goose, played in the original film by Anthony Edwards), Keleigh Teller wasn't a huge fan. "My wife made me shave it immediately [after filming wrapped]," Miles joked with People during the summer of 2022.

Image via Monica Schipper/Getty Images for Netflix

October 1, 2022 — Miles Teller Hosts Saturday Night Live

On the heels of the Top Gun craze, Miles Teller hosted SNL during the fall, and Keleigh was just as excited as him!! "I adore you, thank you for making this week what it was @rebeccaannes @colinjost @fayedunaway etc. you make dreams come true," Keleigh wrote on Instagram the next day.

"So proud of you ❤️🔥," she wrote in another post.

Image via Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures

February 2, 2023 — Miles Teller and Keleigh Sperry Star In A Super Bowl Commercial

There aren't many Super Bowl commercials I can remember from the last few years, but the Bud Light ad with Miles Teller & wife Keleigh is one of my favorites! The ad really highlights how much fun this couple has as they dance around and have fun together. "There's a lot of improv," Miles tells People. "We did go to a rehearsal, just to be professional about it — but in the back of my head I was kind of figuring…I kind of knew the moves I wanted to do."

"It's really been an incredible year for both Keleigh and I, not just professionally but personally," he continues. "When Bud Light came and wanted us to be a part of a Super Bowl commercial, I mean, that's the top of the mountain as far as these things go. We always look forward to watching them."

Image via Keleigh Teller/Instagram

May 27, 2023 — Miles and Keleigh Teller Watch Taylor Swift's Eras Tour

I was over the moon when I realized I was at the same Eras Tour show as Keleigh and Miles Teller! The couple, along with Aaron Rodgers, attended two of Taylor Swift's three concerts at the MetLife arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey. They were a blast! "48 hours in ERAs heaven," Keleigh says on Instagram.

Image via Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

February 20, 2024 — Keleigh Sperry Celebrates Miles Teller's Birthday

I love birthdays just as much as other major holidays, and turns out Keleigh Teller loves them too! (Just, not as much as she loves Miles ;)). "Happy 37th birthday to my Phila-Florida-jersey-boy, you hung the 🌙 ," she says on Instagram. "Keep on flying, I’ll stand by and watch you shine forever."

Image via Miles Teller/X

April 30, 2024 — Miles And Keleigh Teller Dress Up In Honor Of The Fall Guy

After Ryan Gosling dressed up as Beavis during SNL and the premiere of The Fall Guy, Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller put their own spin on the costumes. Miles posted the photos to X with nothing but a rocker hand emoji as the caption.

Who is Miles Teller's wife?

Image via Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Miles Teller's wife is Keleigh Teller, who is a professional model and has starred in music videos like Opeth’s “The Devil’s Orchard" and Taylor Swift's "I Bet You Think About Me (Taylor's Version)."

How did Keleigh Teller and Miles Teller meet?

Image via Randy Shropshire/Getty Images for CAA

Miles Teller and Keleigh Teller met when they showed up to the same after party in 2013. It really goes to show that you never know where you'll find the love of your life!

Do Miles and Keleigh Teller have kids?

Image via Amy Sussman/Getty Images

No, Miles Teller & wife Keleigh don't have kids — but they do have a French bulldog named Bugsy!

What's your favorite moment from Miles and Keleigh Teller's love story? Check out our Facebook for more news on your favorite celebrity couples!

Lead image via Lia Toby/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures

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15 Delicious Leftover Ham Recipes To Make In 2024

If there’s one thing you can guarantee this holiday season, it’s that you can make plenty of leftover ham recipes. Out of all the dinner roasts, the salty, versatile meat has the best potential; it can be incorporated into quiche, soup, or even enchiladas. Whether you choose to have your holiday leftovers for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these 15 recipes will help you use up every last bit.

Leftover Ham Recipes You'll Love

Ham and Cheese Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole

Who says you can’t continue to celebrate Easter throughout the rest of spring? Keep the family in town and invite them over for a mimosa-filled brunch with this cheesy, bready casserole as the main event. Plus, it's a make-ahead recipe, which just makes us love it even more. (via FoodieCrush)

Ham and Cheese Monkey Bread

We're pretty sure that monkey bread is our love language. If you and your S.O. need something tasty to snack on while you watch baseball, opt for this gooey bread. It'll definitely become the MVP of the night. (via Show Me the Yummy)

Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Waffles

If you're a ham and cheese fan, then you haven’t lived until you’ve tried the classic combination inside a hash brown. Take the crispiness to the next level by cooking the batter in a waffle maker because everything tastes better when you cook it in a waffle maker. (via Damn Delicious)

Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche

Filling, tasty, and oh-so-cheesy, you can’t go wrong with a quiche on a chilly spring morning. One forkful of this luscious dish, and you’ll be instantly transported to a French bistro. Once you get the hang of this recipe, you can try all kinds of quiche, from sausage to peppers. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

One-Pot Ham and Pea Pasta

Kids will jump for joy at the sight of this creamy, tasty pasta, and you'll jump for joy at the fact that it takes less than 30 minutes to make! They might even eat the peas if you’re lucky. (via Salt and Lavender)

Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

In the days after a big holiday meal, make things easier with a tray of sliders to keep everyone well fed. Brush the tops of leftover buns with honey and Dijon mustard, stuff with Swiss cheese and ham, then pop those in the oven until melty and toasted. (via The Cookie Rookie)

Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto

Sweet butternut squash lends some of its starch to make this risotto extra creamy. Salty, caramelized ham and a generous dose of Parmesan cheese help balance out the flavors and textures. (via Give It Some Thyme)

We Can Get Enough Of These Leftover Ham Recipes

Overnight Breakfast Enchiladas

Before you clean up the kitchen, prep these enchiladas for tomorrow's breakfast. All you'll have to do is roll out of bed, pop them in the oven, and enjoy the smoky, cheesy aroma. Top with salsa, sour cream, and avocados to make them extra yummy. (via Joyful Healthy Eats)

Leftover Ham Pizza

Ordering in might be tempting after the holidays, but there’s really no reason to when you have a fridge full of leftovers. Try making your own pizza using your heaps of leftover ham. You can even add pineapple to it if that’s your favorite combo. (via The Cookie Writer)

Potato Ham Chowder

Double the pork, double the fun. Add layers of flavor to this chowder with diced ham, salty bacon, and sweet corn. This is the perfect dish for any spring or summer day that ends up being chilly. (via Damn Delicious)

Chicken Cordon Bleu Rice Bake

You won’t believe how easy this creamy rice bake is to prepare, but with Cream of Chicken soup, sour cream, and cheese, it won't taste like leftovers. (via Plain Chicken)

Healthy Ham and Cheese Casserole With Apples and Sage

Still craving hearty dishes but want to eat healthier as we enter the warmer months? Compromise with this better-for-you bake, made with whole-wheat penne, nonfat Greek yogurt, and fresh apples. (via Well Plated by Erin)

Ham and Cheese Pastry Puffs

These flaky treats are basically bite-size ham, cheese, and mustard sandwiches in puff pastry. The unexpected five-spice seasoning blend on top adds both beautiful color and serious flavor. Serve as baby shower apps or turn them into an unexpected brunch dish. (via Plain Chicken)

Hawaiian Fried Rice

Ham and pineapple are a classic culinary match, no matter what time of year it is. Add a fun kick to your spring menu with a zesty fried rice featuring the tried-and-true combo. (via The Recipe Critic)

Cheesy Garlic Butter Sandwich Skewers

Make your plain ham and cheese sandwiches exciting again. Thread them onto skewers and brush them with fragrant garlic butter for a meal that deserves five stars! (via The Cookie Rookie)

Follow Brit + Co on Pinterest for more leftover ham recipes.

Additional reporting by Justina Huddleston and Sara Cagle

This piece has been updated.

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10 All-White Party Outfits To Style For Your Next Summer Invite

If there’s one thing about the weather outside warming up, it’s that it has us itching to wear all white and only white. Because of the “no white before Memorial Day or after Labor Day '' rule that was put into place who knows how long ago by we don't-know-who, the color doesn’t get a lot of love during the winter months, but wearing all white is SUCH a vibe. However, thanks to this rule, all-white ensembles are always reminiscent of long summer days that lead into long summer nights.

In fact, wearing all white is such a striking fashion moment that ‘white parties’ have become a popularized summer event thanks to mentions in the media like Gossip Girl’s acclaimed Hamptons white party, or RHOBH’s Kyle Richards’ annual ivory-only summer soiree. Even if you aren’t a part of New York’s elite or a housewife in Beverly Hills, that doesn’t mean that you can’t partake in this seasonal trend, too.

Flowy dresses, linen sets, eyelet details, and delicate cuts all bring so much versatility to the soft colorway that is white. If you’re feeling inspired to host your own white party this summer, or if you already have a few on your calendar to attend, find our top apparel selects that fit the theme below.

Shop White Party Outfits Here!

H&M Linen Blended Pants

These pants are so effortlessly cool, both literally and figuratively. The wide legs, oversized back pockets, and low waist keep them on-trend, while the breathable linen fabric makes them perfect for hotter temps. Not to mention, they’ll pair easily with just about every top that’s already in your closet.

Sabo Skirt Marita Dress

Want to know how to look super chic with minimal effort? This delicate maxi dress is your answer. The dramatic ankle length of this dress makes it an obvious choice for nighttime white parties, but the playful back cut-out and tie maintain the youthful energy that comes out in all of us during the summer.

Current Air Cara Sleeveless Pleated Mini Dress

If you are as obsessed with tenniscore as we are following the premiere of the Challengers movie, then this mini dress is the white party ‘fit for you! The drop waist and subtle ruffled collar detail make it feel like it could be worn court-side if the party you’re attending happens to have a net and a few extra rackets handy; you’ll be sure to channel your inner Zendaya in this piece.

Diarrablu Satu Dress

Caftan dresses are the best for keeping you cool while still making you look majestic af. This one-shoulder shift dress has gorgeous details including monochrome appliques and a scalloped slit that sits beautifully on all body types. Available in a size range of XS to 3XL, it beautifully fuses elegance and comfort for a timeless look that transitions seamlessly from season to season.

Cupshe Ivory Textured Square Neck Lace-Up One-Piece

If your white party doubles as a pool party, then showing up in an ivory one-piece is a must. The full coverage bum will keep you feeling secure, while the lace-up back invites an element of edginess to this modern take on a classic bathing suit.

Showpo Tommy Two Piece Set

If I were to go to a white party this summer (read: someone please invite me to your white party this summer), then I’d wear this matching set. I love that it comes off as fashionable thanks to the on-trend sheer element and flattering fabric composition while feeling as comfortable as pajamas.

Praerie Margaret Dress

This high-low dress is simply stunning. With a square neck, romantic floral design, and puff sleeves, the Margaret dress is playful yet sophisticated and can be dressed down for lunchtime get-togethers, or styled more formally for evening events.

Petite Plume Women's Silk Pajama Set

Once the party is over and you’re ready to slip into something a bit more comfortable, this milky white set made from 100% mulberry silk will make you feel beyond luxe. The quintessential, timeless silhouette is sure to turn heads, so much so that if you throw this set on while your guests are still present, they’ll get the subtle hint that it’s time for them to go home; only after they ask where your set is from.

Abercrombie Curve Love A&F Sloane Tailored Short

Look and feel posh in a pair of tailored shorts if a dress just isn’t your thing. Abercrombie’s pleated highrise shorts bring an element of functionality to white party dressing. These shorts feature front and back pockets for your trinkets, belt loops that provide the opportunity for accessorizing, and a partially elasticated waistband offers extra comfort.

Pistola Grover Short Sleeve Field Suit

This jumpsuit is giving stylish mechanic, and we’re totally here for it. The all-white colorway offers an elevated, yet essential appeal to this all-in-one outfit. To make it feel a bit more feminine, pop the collar, roll up the pant legs, add some kitten heels, and as many accessories as you can handle.

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Header image via Praerie

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How To Train For A 5K, According To A (Very Fast) Professional Distance Runner

A 5K is a 3.12 mile race, and it's one of the most popular distances around the world for hobby joggers and elite athletes alike. Unlike a half marathon or full marathon, the 5K leaves you feeling tired, but able to actually walk afterwards — and with the same sense of accomplishment. Some seasoned runners may look down on the 5K, but I'm here to tell you that it's no small feat. In fact, in my 14 years of competitive running, the 5K was my main focus for 12 years.

If you're looking to run your first 5K and have no background in cardio or endurance sports, a simple google search for “beginner 5k workouts” will lead you to dozens of workout plans. While I have coached true beginners, my coaching specialty is with more intermedia runners, or runners trying to run their fastest 5K. You don't have to be a standout athlete or elite runner to set goals, and there are some simple steps everyone can take to get faster. Heres how to train for a 5K race, the Paxton way.

Photo by RF._.studio/PEXELS

The first step to bettering your 5K is to pick a race and sign up for it — most cities have a few 5K to choose from each weekend, so there should be plenty to choose from. Having a race on the calendar ensures you won’t skip out on your training. I recommend giving yourself 8-10 weeks to properly train.

The best 5K training plans, in my opinion, include 4-5 days of running a week. Every week should include:

  • One or two speed workouts
  • A few easy jogs
  • A long run

You should never run hard or fast two days in a row — easy jogging and rest between speed workouts are both essential for rebuilding muscles damaged with hard workouts. Here's how each of the three main training workouts should go.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

Speed Workouts

Every speed workout should begin with a 5-10 minute jogging warm up and a 5-10 minute jog/walk cooldown. This will help ensure you do not pull or strain any muscles.

The actual "speed" part of speed workouts can go one of two ways:

  • Run 2-3 minutes at a harder 7 out of 10 effort, with a standing or walking rest of 2-3 minutes between each push.
  • Run 6-8 repeats of a steep hill for 45-60 seconds in length with a walk back down, before repeating again.
Note: These are not sprint workouts, and you should never push yourself so hard that you're lying on the ground gasping for air afterwards.

Easy Jogs

Easy jogs should be kept at a conversational pace, so this would be a good time to grab your girlfriend or hop on the phone if you want some company. The best jogs should be about 2-3 miles in length, or 20-35 minutes in duration.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio/PEXELS

Long Runs

Long runs are arguably the most important workout of the week, and anyone trying to better their 5K time should make sure to include them in their training plan. Like the name suggests, a long run should be your longest run of the week. Your longest run can be anywhere from three miles at the beginning of the plan to 12 miles if you're an experienced and seasoned vet. I recommend starting with 3 miles at the beginning of your 8-10 week plan and working your way up to 5-8 miles by the end. You should do this by adding one half to a full mile each week. Although it may sound silly to run 8 miles in order to run a 3.1 mile race, this will help build your endurance more than any of your other weekly runs. Having endurance will make the race seem easier, and I can guarantee you'll pass people left and right in your final mile.

Note: You should also have at least 10 days between your longest long run and your 5k race so that you can feel as fresh as possible on race day.

Photo by Blue Bird/PEXELS

The most important thing to remember on race day is to not go out too fast. If you sprint the first mile, the rest of the race will be miserable. Race day adrenaline will make you jittery and willing to sprint at the start, but working on controlling that will ensure a better race experience. Try to make your second and third mile faster than your first and give it all in the last .1 mile. After you’re done, soak in the race day atmosphere and grab a free banana! Don’t forget that the post race pain is temporary and remember not to sign up for another race while on an endorphin high!

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Header image by Ashvin Praveen/Dupe

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