Peep the Best and Worst Looks from the 2016 Critic’s Choice Awards

Dec 12, 2016

The Critic’s Choice Awards totally snuck up on us this year, coming a full month earlier than they did in years’ past (click here for the 2015 style recap), but boy, are we glad they did: Most of the ~~red~~ blue carpet looks were simply too good to wait for. While there were, to be sure, a few misses to boot, the sheer level of star power seen here tonight more than made up for them: We’re talking J. Biel and Justin, Emma Stone and Nicole Kidman, people! Cozy up and grab a cup a cup of hot cocoa, cause we’re walking you through all this year’s looks, from the good and the bad to even, yes, the ugly. Check out best and worst picks below.

1. Constance Wu: We love, love, LOVE not only the pops of color the floral print on this white gown afford, but its structural, draped sides that flow down in a fishtail train, as well. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

2. Evan Rachel Wood: Now THIS is a pantsuit done right. So well-tailored it might as well be custom fit for the Westworld star’s lithe frame (which it very well may be), the slimming black Altuzarra suit works just WORKS for Evan. (Photo via Christopher Polk/Getty)

3. Mandy Moore: The This Is Us star looked hot, hot, hot despite a shade of navy winter blue, thanks to a few well-place side cutouts and a deeeeep plunging neckline on her curve-hugging gown. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

4. Cynthia Nixon: While we’re not entirely sold on this color combo for Cynthia in particular (there are some who say that reds and pinks are the least flattering shades a redhead can wear), the dress itself is absolutely gorgeous, and could easily double as Valentine’s Day date-wear. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

5. Hailee Steinfeld: Hailee Steinfeld is quickly becoming one of our favorite fashion icons to watch. After NAILING it on the American Music Awards red carpet, girl does it again with ease at the Critic’s Choice Awads, owning the carpet in one of the night’s more colorful looks and keeping right on trend with its hint of sheer. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

6. Michelle Williams: Though not as flashy as some of the carpet’s other looks, Michelle always manages to look elegant and pulled together with her own, quiet and simplistic style. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

7. Sarah Hyland: While this Vera Wang look might have looked a bit too casual on anyone else, Sarah Hyland has some sort of effortless coolness about her that just makes it work. Perhaps it’s that killer choker pendant? (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

8. Lily Collins: In her winter gray Elie Saab lace with pale, pale skin, deep plum lips and super dark hair, Lily Collins is our personal snow queen. We’re bowing down Wayne’s World style, Lily: We’re not worthy! (Photo via )

9. Felicity Huffman & William H. Macy: Felicity Huffman may be 54 years old, but she appeared more full of life than women half her age on the red carpet, and for that alone, she makes our best dressed list (never mind the fact that she does, in fact, look fabulous, to boot): Happiness looks great on everyone! (Photo via Frazer Harrrison/Getty)

10. Janelle Monae: Janelle stepped out of her usual pantsuit box for this year’s Critics Choice Awards — we almost didn’t recognize her without her pompadour! — but boy, are we SO glad she did. Still keeping true to her quirky nature with a funky houndstooth frock, but girly-ing things up a bit from her typical digs, we think Janelle looks fierce AF. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

11. Jessica Biel: Motherhood (or eating in the shower) must be seriously agreeing with Jessica Biel, because in our opinion, this was the absolute BEST she’s ever looked on a red carpet. Maybe it’s the green of her Elie Saab gown that brings out her eyes or maybe it’s the plunging neckline, but whatever it was, girl looks AMAZE. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

12. Kate Beckinsale: Kate looks like a beautiful queen of a faraway ice land in her sheer-and-sequined flared Reem Acra gown. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

13. Nicole Kidman: We love the daring details of Nicole Kidman’s bow-top Brandon Maxwell gown, and the black hue really offsets her glowing winter complexion (the red lips don’t hurt at all, either). (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

14. Sarah Paulson: The AHS actress was one classy dame in this pearl-adorned peplum dress with a chic and tousled little side bob. It’s different, but that might be exactly what we like about it. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

15. Viola Davis: Simple though it may be, Viola Davis looked pretty as a picture thanks to the GORGEOUS hue of this mint bodycon Michael Kors collection gown that sets off her skin tone beyond beautifully. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

16. Emma Stone: Emma has been slaying her La La Land premiere looks all season, so we’re not surprised to see her slaying here too. Taking a cue from Nicole Kidman with her contrasting black gown and milky white skin/red lip combo, Emma adds interest with a uniquely twisted top and a bit of sequined shine. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

17. Kaley Cuoco: Kaley looked sweet-as-can-be in a fitted pair of pink cropped Noon by Noon pants and a strapless frilly lace top from the same designer with a flowing train. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

THE WORST

1. Bella Thorne: Bella’s brand of style typically comes off as crazysexycool, but this one, in our humble opinion, just comes off as crazy. Between the bold red hair, the wayyyyy too sheer side cutouts and the pageant style silver glitz, it’s making us a bit dizzy, TBH. (Photo via Christopher Polk/Getty)

2. Carly Chaikin: We’re all for a break from the parade of gowns that tend to take over the carpet, but this is a bit…much. The non-flattering cut of this top gives off a lax maternity-wear look that we’re just not digging. (Photo via Christopher Polk/Getty)

3. Bryce Dallas Howard: We can’t put our finger on exactly what it is we dislike about this Grecian-style getup (other than perhaps the color, which isn’t doing her skin tone ANY favors), but this Topshop number just may be our least favorite look of the night. (Photo via Christopher Polk/Getty)

4. Allison Williams: While we can certainly appreciate a unique pattern or pop of color, Allison Williams missed the mark by quite a bit with the uber-loud print of this Balmain design. (Photo via Jonathan Leibson/Getty)

5. Ariel Winter: It’s largely the fit of this dress that lands Ariel on our worst dress list. It looks slightly either too big or lopsided, hanging in all the wrong spots and hugging none of the right ones. Girl has a bangin’ body, so we would’ve loved to see her in something more akin to Mandy Moore’s ensemble. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

6. Busy Phillips: This dress needs SOMETHING. Lace is nice and all, but without a flattering neckline or cutout or any type of leg slit, this comes off as being a bit… frumpy. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

7. Judith Light: Judith is far too dignified a lady for this latex-looking fabric that is giving us majorly (ill-fitting) Hefty vibes. (Photo via Jonathan Leibson/Getty)

8. Tracee Ellis Ross: Mayyyybeee Tracee didn’t the memo that winter is more or less knocking on our doors, but this look is totally out of season. We know Santa Monica is warmer than say, Chicago, and all, but this crochet Zuhair Murad with its spaghetti straps is a look far better suited for summer days. (Photo via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty)

9. Lili Taylor: We typically love us a pantsuit — when it’s done right (see: Evan Rachel Wood). This one needed a trip to the tailor to shorten the ill-fitting bottoms before ever making it’s public debut. What could have been great just ends up looking like a too-big man’s ensemble, all courtesy of the poor fit. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

10. Amanda Peete: While Amanda’s dress would have been PERFECT for stomping divots at the racetrack a la Pretty Woman, it’s a wee bit too casual for a red (or, in this case, blue) carpet. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)

11. Robin Tunney: Robin will forever live in our hearts as our favorite ‘90s witch, so it pains us to say this, but we’re just not feeling this black capelet dress or the red ankle-strap pumps that would be better suited for the office. (Photo via Christopher Polk/Getty)

Which were your fave and least loved looks? Cast your vote @BritandCo!

(Photo via Christopher Polk/Getty)

15 Graduation Gifts Perfect For The Class Of 2024

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.

Avoiding Your Next Haircut? Don’t Make The Same Mistakes As Me

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

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20 Nifty Gifts To Give Your Step Mom This Mother’s Day

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.

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