Prime Day Only: Save up to 40% on Levi's Shorts, Jeans, and More

Jeans are a wardrobe staple and an essential part of outfits for various occasions. Their versatility and classic feel are second to none. So if you need some new jeans, then be sure to check out Levi’s this Prime Day, where you can find amazing deals on shorts, pants, and jackets.

Levi’s is one of the world’s most recognizable brands, offering high-quality clothing for both men and women. Whether you’re looking for a classic pair of jeans to wear with a dress shirt or a casual pair of shorts for the weekend, you’ll find your new pair right here. And with great savings, you don’t have to break the bank for a new pair.

Levi's 501 Original Shorts

Amazon

Levi's 501 original shorts are a timeless fashion staple with a high rise, slim fit, and button fly. Pair this with your favorite shirt for a casual and comfortable style, or use them to go to the beach. Get one or more pair today for 40% off.

$35.70 (was $59.50) - See it on Amazon

Levi's Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans

Amazon

Levi's ribcage straight ankle jeans feature an ultra high-rise waist with a relaxed fit through the hip and thigh. The stretchy and comfortable fabric helps to define your waist for an incredible look no matter what shirt you wear. Save 30% on your next pair today.

$55.65 (was $79.50) - See it on Amazon

Levi's Wedgie Straight Jeans

Amazon

Introducing Levi's wedgie straight jeans, featuring a high-rise waist, a snug fit through the hip and thigh, a button fly, and stretchy fabric for extra comfort. They’re also true to size so you will get that perfect fit. Get yours for 40% off today.

$47.70 (was $79.50) - See it on Amazon

Levi's Original Trucker Jacket

Amazon

Grab the perfect blend of style and comfort with Levi's original trucker jacket with stretch options. This is the perfect jacket to take with you as it will go with any outfit you wear. It’s sure to add a splash of style this summer, and it’s on sale for 40% off during Prime Day.

$53.70 (was $89.50) - See it on Amazon

Summer is incomplete without a good pair of shorts that you can pull on for any given occasion – evening strolls, happy hours, farmer’s markets, and the like. But sometimes, the major struggle is finding a shorts style that feels and looks good (chafing is absolutely not the move). Luckily, Abercrombie & Fitch has so many cute shorts that aren’t a literal pain in the butt.

Abercrombie & Fitch is currently having a sale on all of their shorts! Here are the details:

  • Dates: May 10-13
  • Deals: 25% off ALL shorts, plus 15% off everything else (like dresses, jeans, tops, and more)
  • Stackable promo code: ‘AFSHORTS’ for an additional 15% off

We love A&F because of their versatile styles and their very impressive size range. They have a plethora of materials to shop from, including denim, linen, and fleecy lounge shorts. These are our favorite styles for summertime!

Denim Shorts

High Rise Dad Shorts

Dad shorts are an anti-chafing hero – this pair in particular boasts a longer hem than your usual denim shorts. The inseam measures about 5 inches, so you have more coverage! These A&F shorts are made to have a relaxed fit throughout the hips and thighs. We adore this light denim wash, but you can also shop these shorts in 8 other colors.

The High Rise Dad Shorts are shoppable in sizes 23-37 on sale for $52.50 (was $70).

Curve Love High Rise Dad Shorts

You can also shop A&F's dad shorts in the brand's Curve Love silhouette, which is made with an additional 2 inches through the hips and thighs to help eliminate gapping. Trust us, we know the pain of shorts not fitting right, which is why these pieces are so great!

The Curve Love High Rise Dad Shorts are shoppable in sizes 23-37 on sale for $48.75 (was $65).

Mid Rise 10" Loose Shorts

Long bermuda shorts like these seem to be another emerging denim trend for 2024. They look so chic with other summer capsule wardrobe staples like laid-back sandals and basic tank tops! Abercrombie & Fitch knows what's up, and this mid-rise number is perfectly on-trend. The inseam lands around 10 inches, with a loose fit all around the legs. You'll totally appreciate the additional length for comfort reasons!

The Mid Rise 10" Loose Shorts are currently available in sizes 30-33 on sale for $52.50 (was $70).

High Rise Loose Shorts

We truly cannot resist a high waist! While other shorts may fit snug against your figure, these let loose a bit for maximum breathability and comfort. The high rise still compliments your waistline, too. They're crafted from a vintage stretch denim material that moves with you, but still retains a bit of structure.

The High Rise Loose Shorts are shoppable in three other colors and sizes 23-37 on sale for $52.50 (was $70).

High Rise Mom Shorts

Mom shorts will never go out of style, in our opinion. A&F champions this timeless style with a super high-rise waist, 2.5 inch inseam, and a classic cuffed hem. The denim material that swarms these shorts is considerably stretchy, which is a massive perk for tackling the hot summer weather.

The High Rise Mom Shorts are also available in the Curve Love style, which accounts for 2 extra inches in the hips and thighs to fit your curves the right way. This style is available in sizes 23-37 on sale for $48.75 (was $65).

Curve Love High Rise 90s Cutoff Shorts

White shorts are a quintessential vacation piece, and these ones made in a 90's-inspired silhouette just can't be beat. The loose-fitting leg and 3.25-inch inseam allow for freedom of movement, whether you're walking, standing, or sitting down. The waistline fits you in a subtle v-shape, flatting your figure instantly.

The Curve Love High Rise 90s Cutoff Shorts are shoppable in 3 other colors and sizes 23-37 on sale for $48.75 (was $65).

Linen Shorts

Linen-Blend Pull-On Shorts

Linen shorts are so much more fuss-free than denim ones, but they can look just as put-together and elevated. Case in point: these pull-on linen shorts! The elastic high-waist pulls things together (without any buttons, no less!) and makes getting ready a total breeze. The inseam falls at about 3.5 inches, plus this cutie style has pockets!

The Linen-Blend Pull-On Shorts come in 9 other colors and patterns in sizes XXS-XXL on sale now for $37.50 (was $50).

Premium Linen Scallop-Hem Tailored Shorts

These scalloped shorts with an elastic waistband look like the perfect summer uniform, TBH. Their 100% linen construction means otherworldly breathability, especially when it feels like a million degrees out. A&F even sells coordinating linen tops if you want to step out in a matching set.

The Premium Linen Scallop-Hem Tailored Shorts are shoppable in three other trendy colors and sizes 23-37 on sale now for $52.50 (was $70).

Curve Love A&F Sloane Tailored Linen-Blend Shorts

Though these high-rise linen shorts lack some pretty cool scallops like the previous pair, their waistline pleats and sophisticated belt loops are everything. They're giving office chic in the best way possible! The generous 4.5 inch amps up the comfort levels of these shorts with ease, but the details from the cuffed hem to the seamless pockets make them a bit more luxe.

The Curve Love A&F Sloane Tailored Linen-Blend Shorts are shoppable in sizes 23-37 on sale now for $52.50 (was $70).

Lounge Shorts

Vintage Sunday Shorts

The Vintage Sunday Shorts boast a thick, durable fleece material that feels oh-so luxurious – even if you're just wearing them for a session of rotting on the couch. The wide, elastic high-rise waistband is fitted with drawstrings so you can find your perfect fit. These A&F shorts come prepared with two side pockets to hold your phone and/or your fave lip balm!

The Vintage Sunday Shorts come in 7 other fun colors and sizes XXS-XL on sale for $37.50 (was $50).

YPB neoKNIT Unlined Shorts

These short-shorts lean more athletic, but they work just as well for lazy weekends. They're made from a sweat-wicking neoprene material, making for exceptionally light and breathable wear. The curved bottom hem grants you more mobility, too. Plus, there's pockets!

The YPB neoKNIT Unlined Shorts are shoppable in 2 other colors and sizes XXS-XXL on sale for $30 (was $40).

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

Images via Abercrombie & Fitch.

After a season of adventure, heartache, and lots of father-daughter bonding, we're ready to return to the world of HBO's The Last of Us. So is the rest of the internet apparently, considering "The Last of Us season 2" has almost six billion results on Google. Starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, the show immediately started making headlines after its pilot episode, and had a viewership increase of 75 percent by the finale. The series also went on to score three Emmy nominations and a SAG Award for Pedro Pascal as Joel!

Season 2 is sure to be just as compelling as the original season, but only time will tell whether we'll see new plotlines and character arcs, or the timeline arranged in a different way. I know for sure that whatever Craig Mazin and the rest of the team decide to do will make me cry. If you have as many questions about the second season as we do, keep reading for everything you need to know before the series returns to HBO.

Your First Look At The Last Of Us Season 2

Image via HBO

The first look at Bella Ramsey as Ellie shows the teen still rocks her beanie + puffer combo, but you can tell she has much more grit and determination than we saw last season (which, TBH, is hard to believe).

Image via HBO

The first look at Pedro Pascal as Joel Miller already has fans crying because the framing and Joel's outfit look very similar to an emotional scene from the game. Plus, I think we're just ready to see our favorites onscreen again!

"Cries in long hair Joel Miller," one X user tweeted.

"All the set photos and officially released photos from The Last of Us Season 2 are making me so f-ckin happy, I can’t wait to get traumatized again," another said.

When will The Last of Us season 2 premiere?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

The Last of Us season 2 is set to begin filming in February 12, 2024, Craig Mazin tells Variety. HBO confirmed on Wednesday, May 15 that it would premiere in 2025.

Who's in The Last of Us season 2 cast?

Image via Hulu

The Last of Us will see Bella Ramsey and Pedro Pascal returning to our screens, but they'll also be joined by Kaitlyn Dever in the role of Abby. This is the one role fans have been waiting for — she plays a huge role in the second game and the fact that she's in the second season of the series shows that the action, drama, and suspense is only going to get crazier from here on out.

It was also announced that Isabela Merced will star as Dina and Young Mazino will star as Jesse. Argylle star Catherine O'Hara has reportedly been cast in a role created just for the TV show.

Will The Last of Us season 2 follow the plot of the game?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

Showrunner Craig Mazin told EW that the new season "will be different just as this season was different [from the original game]."

Bella Ramsey also weighed in on the changes between The Last of Us season 2 and its first season, telling Vanity Fair that "it’s really a story about revenge and a continuation from the first season about the dangers of unconditional love." I know that The Last of Us: Part II is all about revenge, but we still don't know just how much of the game will be used in the show.

“I think that they’re always going to find ways to build on the incredible source material that they have, and surprise us with how they can use that material in a different format like a television show," Pedro Pascal tells Deadline. "But I wouldn’t want to spoil it for anybody, and the truth is, I don’t actually have all of the information as of [January 2024].”

Will the time jump between games play a role in the series? Will the end of season 2 line up with the beginning of the game? We'll have to wait and see!

Will there be season 2 of Last of Us?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

Yes, there will be a season 2 of The Last of Us. The show was renewed after only its second episode ever! Right now there are only two games, so we'll have to see if we end up getting a season 3.

What is The Last of Us about?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

The first season of The Last of Us follows Joel (played by Pedro Pascal), who lives in Boston 20 years after a fungal outbreak leads to the end of the world. When a plan to save his brother goes sideways, Joel finds himself smuggling teenager Ellie (Bella Ramsey) across the country.

Where will The Last of Us season 2 film?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

After the first season filmed in places like Calgary, Alberta, Deadline announced on March 31 that The Last of Us season 2 will shoot in Vancouver.

Where can I watch The Last of Us?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

You can watch the first nine episodes of the show on Max. We're hoping we also get nine The Last of Us season 2 episodes — if not more!

Is Bella Ramsey in season 2?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

Yes, Bella will return as Ellie for The Last of Us season 2. "The only way we would ever, ever consider re-casting Bella is if [they] said, 'I don't want to work with you guys anymore,'" Neil Druckmann (the game's creator) tells EW. "And even then, we're not sure we would grant [them] that. We might still force [them] to come back to season 2."

How old is Ellie in The Last of Us 2?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

Ellie is 19 years old in The Last of Us: Part II, so it's safe to assume she'll be 19 in The Last of Us season 2!

Why is Ellie immune?

Image via Shane Harvey/HBO

According to Firefly leader Marlene in the season one finale, they believe Ellie is immune because her mother was infected before she could cut the umbilical cord. So, Ellie has had cordyceps with her since birth — meaning her immune system overrides any potential infection.

Your First Look At The Last Of Us Season 2 Cast

Image via Zarak/Instagram

We got our first look at The Last of Us season 2 cast when they dined at Vancouver restaurant Zarak. "Us 🤝🏼 The Last of Us," the establishment says in an Instagram post on January 24. "It was our pleasure hosting you last night." While Pedro Pascal wasn't at dinner, Bella Ramsey, creator Craig Mazin, producer Jacqueline Lesko, and newcomers Isabela Merced and Young Mazino were in attendance! Since Bella's Ellie, Isabela's Dina, and Young's Jesse are all super close in the story, some pre-production bonding sounds like the perfect way to start off season 2.

Follow us on Twitter and TikTok for more pop culture, and check back here for more news on The Last of Us season 2.

Header image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

This post has been updated.

What are the hottest jeans trends for 2024? Well, we’ve come a looong way from jeggings, that’s for sure. I personally love denim in all its forms (I will forever stand by a Canadian tuxedo), but this year’s denim trends have me especially excited.

We’re really seeing denim progress pastjeans this year – denim shirts and denim dresses are on the rise – which is such a nice breath of fresh air for all of our ‘fits. Scroll on for the top 5 denim trends all the cool fashion peeps are wearing, with a range of ways to wear ‘em!

Barrel Jeans

We The Free Kingston Baggy Barrel Jeans

Born from the laid-back baggy jeans trend, barrel jeans are a bit controversial. Defined by a rounded shape that hits peak wideness around the knees and gently tapers off at the ankles, barrel jeans can often have a more quirked-up feel, hence the controversy. They're certainly a departure from bootcut or mom jeans, but I think that's what makes 'em all the more trendy!

I don't have a single bone to pick with barrel jeans – they simply ooze cool girl vibes, and the fact that this jeans trend is approved by style queens from the likes of Gigi Hadid, Blake Lively, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Camila Morrone instantly proves their "It" factor... even if you're hesitant to give the trend a go.

If you're searching for a nice gateway piece to really get into the barrel jeans trend, I recommend you opt for a no-frills pair like this one from Free People. These flaunt a mid-rise waistline, which lays the groundwork for a stylish (and not to mention, comfy) fit. You don't want barrel jeans to hug your figure too tight, or else their signature convex shape may get lost. Consider sizing up if you're a fiend for loose-fitting pants!

The Kingston Baggy Barrel Jeans come in sizes 24-32 for $148.

Everlane The Way-High Curve Jean

These curvy jeans from Everlane offer a more subtle take on the barrel jeans trend. The bow-legged shape is still evident, but it's not as severe as other styles on the market. The ankles on these jeans are far less noticeably tapered, but you still get that barrel effect from the wide legs. This pair boasts a high-waisted silhouette, which is fairly uncharacteristic of the classic jean shape – but can be great for those seeking some support along the waistline.

The Way-High Curve Jean is shoppable in four other color washes in sizes 23-33 for $128.

MOTHER The Half Pipe Flood Barrel Jeans

The sleek front seaming that runs down each leg of these barrel jeans lend them to a more formal feel – reminiscent of work slacks – making them an excellent contender for wearing to the office. The lighter wash and classic 5-pocket styling make way for effortless pairing with practically any piece in your closet. The hem hits right above the ankle so you can easily show off your latest pair of sandals or ballet flats.

The Half Pipe Flood Barrel Jeans come in sizes 25-34 for $268.

Denim Dresses + Jumpsuits

Abercrombie & Fitch Denim Column Midi Dress

We truly owe a lot to Beyoncé, but the resurgence of denim – denim dresses and jumpsuit especially – requires extra recognition. We're hot off her new album, Cowboy Carter, which really amped up the country vibes. But instead of stepping out heavily clad in cowboy-approved Wrangler jeans and denim jackets as the genre suggests, people seem to be taking the trend into their own hands with more femme dresses and one-pieces. I am here for it!

And though Queen B's influence on the denim trend is evident, your look doesn't exactly have to be country-esque to stun. Take a denim dress like this one from Abercrombie & Fitch – everything from kitten heels to platform clogs is compatible with this piece. What you wear with it all depends on your personal style!

The Denim Column Midi Dress is shoppable in two other color washes in sizes XXS-XL for $66 (was $110).

Reformation Evita Denim Midi Dress

The halter neckline on this dress is everything! The darker denim wash also gives this style an all-season feel, as opposed to a lighter color that may jive more with the summer months. What I love about the denim dresses they're makin' these days is that they're usually crafted from a stretchy, flexible denim, rather than more rigid materials that are a pain to wear. This Reformation midi is no exception – it boasts a super-stretch fabrication. All you need is a bold belt and some statement earrings to complete the look!

The Evita Denim Midi Dress comes in sizes 0-12 for $218.

Lioness Honey Denim Corset Mini Dress

This chic strapless mini melds so many different fashion trends into one: denim, corsets, and drop-waists. The fitted bodice hugs your shape in the most flattering way before expanding down to a micro-pleated skirt that's absolutely giving Y2K. The zip closure at the front infuses your look with thoughtful detail, while the belt-looped waistline provides boundless styling opportunities.

The Lioness Honey Denim Corset Mini Dress comes in sizes XXS-XL for $79.

Madewell Long Sleeve Wide Leg Denim Coverall Jumpsuit

Jumpsuits, like dresses, are an easy one-and-done piece you definitely need in your style arsenal. Drawing direct inspiration from 70's fashion (think disco dance floors and roller skating rinks), they come in tons of different shapes, lengths, and materials that can amplify your personal style preferences.

I think long-sleeved denim jumpsuits like this one from Madewell are 100% the way to go if you're gonna make an investment in the trend. This one's crafted mostly from cotton, so it's more breathable than it looks (and it's still very structured). It features the classics – a point collar, 5-pocket styling, chest pockets, and belt loops – but it departs from the norm with extra-wide legs that flatter pretty much any body type. There's no doubt that this jumpsuit can earn some wear throughout every season!

This Madewell Wide Leg Coverall Jumpsuit is shoppable in sizes 00-16 for $168.

Pistola Aria Jumpsuit

This denim jumpsuit surely hints at those aforementioned retro vibes, but hosts a more modern fit. The buttoned v-neck vest bodice is flirty, but still retains enough coverage for everyday wear. While the top is snug, the bottoms explode into breezy wide legs for added comfort. The fabrication has a favorable amount of stretch, so you can sit, lounge, dance, and walk around without feeling totally restricted by your denim get-up! Pair it with your fave pair of cowgirl boots to take advantage of its Western details, or rock some colorful Adidas sneakers like the fashion "It" girls do.

The Aria Jumpsuit is shoppable in sizes XXS-XXL for $228. You can shop it on sale for 20% off now with code 'EARLYFF20' during Pistola's Friends & Family Sale!

We The Free Jayde Flare Jumpsuit

Kelly Clarkson pulled off this denim jumpsuit on her show earlier this year, and it's all I've been thinking about since. She just looked so good! This Free People piece is drenched in a bounty of becoming details, from the exaggerated seaming along the bodice to the elongated front zipper that has a proper retro feel. It comes in a stretchy, curve-hugging shape – an instant confidence-booster!

The Jayde Flare Jumpsuit also comes in 6 other colors if the darker denim isn't quite your vibe. It's shoppable in sizes XS-XL for $158.

Denim Maxi Skirts

Levi’s Denim Ankle Column Maxi Skirt

In accordance with barrel jeans and denim dresses trending upward, denim maxi skirts are unsurprisingly making a comeback. I can't help but think of Britney Spears' kitschy denim get-upwhen I reach for my denim maxi skirt, but there are so many ways to style the trend that don't channel those wacky Y2K ensembles.

You have a few options with this denim trend: big skirt, big shirt (like an oversized button-up or pullover sweater), or big skirt, tiny shirt (think cropped tanks and baby tees). Either way, denim skirts are easy to dress up by adding belts, jewelry, and of course, fun shoes to your 'fit.

This light-wash pick from Levi's features a low-rise waistline for easy pairing with longline tops. The skirt itself has a slit down the middle that breaks up the blue denim monotony and allows room for your stride.

The Levi's Denim Ankle Column Maxi Skirt comes in sizes 24-33 for $98.

Gap Denim Midi Skirt

Ever so subtly done in an 80's-esque acid wash, this denim midi skirt from Gap is perfect for spring and summer. The exceptionally-light color wash lends it to pairing with pastels and other bright colors, though it'd look just as chic with a simple black top! This style is easily translatable for all sorts of occasions, from the office to happy hour, and park days to shopping sprees. This skirt is made from a low-stretch denim that's intended to hold you in, but forms to your shape over time.

The Gap Denim Midi Skirt is shoppable in regular, petite, and tall sizes 24-35 for $34 (was $70).

We The Free Catch The Sun Denim Maxi Skirt

This pick carries hippie energy, for sure. It's flowier than most common denim maxis on the market, flaunting a series of flattering vertical seams down the entire silhouette. Its apparent vintage charm makes it a seamless match with every kind of shoe and any top that channels the 70's era. No matter what you wear it with, you'll have so much fun with this swingy skirt!

The Catch The Sun Denim Maxi Skirt also comes in a lighter denim wash and sizes 24-32 for $128.

Denim Shoes

rag & bone Astra Slingback Flat

Mary Janes and ballet flats are fiery-hot RN, and it's no surprise that denim drip has found its way to footwear! These slingback shoes from rag & bone are a prime example of the denim trend, as they're covered in the material. The silver grommets dotting the buckled straps break up the look even further.

These Astra Slingback Flats go for $328 on Nordstrom.com.

Beach By Matisse Jayde Platform Clog

Okayyy, patchwork! These larger-than-life denim clogs are uber-artsy. The contrasting yellow bottoms just work with the blue upper, plus the chunky heels give each and every look a stylish boost in height. Flaunt 'em with a basic black pant, or go double-denim and pair them with dark wash jeans or dresses.

The Jayde Platform Clogs are shoppable for $55.

Coutgo Bow Kitten Heels

Bows, denim, and a kitten heel? These adorable shoes have it all! These two-toned denim sandals secure near the back of the ankle with a tiny rounded buckle, while the toes are pointed. The heel height measures about 2 inches, so these won't be a massive pain to stomp around in.

The Coutgo Bow Kitten Heels come in three other colors and go for $45 on Amazon.

Dark Wash Denim

Levi's Japanese Selvedge Barrel Jeans

I'm more of a medium-wash girl myself, but I can totally get behind the dark-wash denim trend. The darker hue feels a tad bit more elevated, transcending the typical jeans colors we see every day and fitting into a more formal box. Aside from their utter stylishness, it's a nice bonus that dark-wash jeans typically use a lot less water in the production process than their lighter counterparts!

These Levi's jeans assume the barrel shape, but in a flattering dark indigo shade. Pair it with a matching dark denim jacket or go bold with a lighter, contrasting denim top.

The Levi's Japanese Selvedge Barrel Jeans come in sizes 23-32 for $198.

BDG Jaya Baggy Boyfriend Jean

These low-rise baggy jeans from BDG are loose-fitting throughout, the ultimate piece to slide into on lazy days. Though casual in the fit, these pants are wildly easy to dress up with shoes, accessories, and outerwear. The handfeel of the fabric is definitely more rigid, being crafted from recycled materials.

The Jaya Baggy Boyfriend Jeans come in two other color washes in sizes 24-33 for $69.

Everlane The Baggy Jean

These Everlane dark-wash jeans hit a lot higher on the hips, cinching up your figure. They look unassumingly lightweight, but their 60% organic cotton and 40% Tencel construction really speaks to just how breezy these jeans are – perfect for year-round wear!

The Everlane Baggy Jeans come in three other colors in sizes 23-33 for $128.

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Lead image via Urban Outfitters.

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

If you're a classic romance girl who craves a little spice — I'm looking at you, Bridgerton fans — then Christina Lauren's The Paradise Problemis everything you need. I thought I was hooked on romantasy books, but I think this book has coaxed me right back over to the more traditional romance side — and I mean who can really have too much of either type of romance anyway, right?

But before I dig into all things The Paradise Problem, it's important to be clear up one thing: Christina Lauren isn't just one author like I initially thought. The two women responsible for bringing the world 30 romance novels are absolute powerhouses who also happen to be best friends: Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings. I know — this news alone seems like it deserves it's own summer novel. Since they don't have plans to do that, we at least get to have their unified essence in the books they've written and in this lovely interview.

It goes without saying, but The Paradise Problem is the perfect way to celebrate Christina Lauren's successful romance empire. Of their newest title, Christina and Lauren feel great about it being in the world. "This one is really fun so it's like going out and just celebrating. We're not worried," Lauren says with a smile. Confidence; I love it!

Ahead, learn more about how they birthed Christina Lauren and created the characters you'll come to love in The Paradise Problem.

The Making of a Romance Novel Empire 

Image via Brystan Studios

Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings

I know besties when I see them, and this writing duo has all the makings of two friends whose bond has been deepened by more than time. Still, curiosity get's the best of me when I mention what certainly feels like an empire to me before asking, "How did you two meet?" Their knowing smile says it all — they've clearly been locked in for a while, and they remember the exact moment things clicked for them.

"In 2009 we were both writing fanfiction and reading each other's stories online. Then Lo (Lauren) was putting on a panel at San Diego Comic Con on fanworks and she invited me to be on it. So, I came out and we met for the first time, and we got along really well," says Christina.

From there, they wrote a one shot — quick fanfiction story — together, and eventually decided it was worth taking a chance on writing an entire book. The fact that both Christina and Lauren have experience writing fanfiction not only helped them prepare for their pivot into authorship, but it also got them accustomed to the honesty of online book reviews.

As far as people not knowing that Christina Lauren is actually two people, that's basically the point. "We want it [our books] to feel like they're written by one voice. We spend a lot of time editing to make sure it doesn't sound feel like two very distinct, combative voices in there," Lauren says while excitedly adding, "I mean everyday we get DM's that are like, 'I didn't know there were two of you!'"

Peeling Back the Layers of The Paradise Problem 

Warning: May contain some spoilers.

I have a deep appreciation for books that immediately call my imagination to the forefront and that's just one of the many things The Paradise Problem does as soon as you begin reading the first page. We're immediately introduced to Anna Green and "West" going their separate ways after choosing to amicably end their marriage. The kicker? See, they don't actually know each other.

How can two people essentially be strangers while they're married? Realistically, Anna and West's marriage was one of convenience. Each found themselves in a situation where their very survival relied on marriage, so they decided to become husband and wife solely on paper.

That seems pretty straightforward right? Wrong. Based on the first impressions of Anna and West, one has it together while the other is a hot mess. But, Christina Lauren is challenging us to rethink our approach to first impressions because they're not always everything. Once you start peeling back a person's layers, you can really start to understand their choices, reactions, family dynamics (and there are plenty of awkward encounters in this story on that front), and more.

Image via Jasmine Williams

Christina and Lauren knew what they wanted for these two characters in the end, but they had to figure out how to fully thread the needle for it to work — particularly when it came to West and his relationship to his family. They had his backstory, but they needed to figure out how to fully flesh out his world, parents and all. What they went with was jaw-dropping IMO, full of shady behavior, cocky attitudes, and beyond. But how does West's background and personality relate to Anna's?

"We always try to think about who's the perfect person for the characters — not who will complete them. Anna is very different. She does not come from a wealthy background, she's not super polished," says Lauren. But, there's more to her than meets the eye. She's a genuinely good person who has a loving heart that no amount of status can compete with once the layers are peeled back.

This is what begins winning West over, and the two soon begin to find there's some truth to the fictionalized relationship they have on display for West's family. Ultimately, The Paradise Problem begs readers to ask if opposites really do attract, confronting us — and our main characters — with this one scenario at a time.

Image via Jasmine Williams

In my humble opinion, The Paradise Problem feels like one of Christina Lauren's best books because it encompasses all the elements that fans of their work love. Christina says, "They love characters they either want to be or want to be friends with, heroes they want for their own, a lot of the settings..." She continues, saying, "The great thing about having a large catalogue of books is that there's something for everyone. Do you like funny books? We got you. Do you want super saucy books? We got you. Do you want something that's gonna rip your heart out? We got that too."

In case you have any doubts about that, check out all of the duo's books now and get your copy of The Paradise Problemtoday!

Be sure to watch our full interview with Christina and Lauren, officially known as Christina Lauren, on YouTube!

Lead image via Christina Lauren

Rom-coms are SO back, and after the flop-turned-viral Anyone But You gave us Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney onscreen, audiences are begging to see them together again. Glen's latest Vanity Fair profile (ahead of this year's summer moviesHit Man andTwisters) confirms "ideas are being batted around" for an Anyone But You 2, which I need in theaters, like, yesterday. Here's everything you need to know about the potential sequel — and which Shakespeare adaptation the duo should tackle next.

Will there be a second movie for Anyone But You?

Image via Sony Pictures

Both Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney have teased a potential Anyone But You 2. "I'm just so thankful that everybody is loving [Anyone But You]...a little love, a little romance," Sydney told Jimmy Fallonthere's "a high nine chance" for a sequel, while Glen confirms to Variety that the duo is "definitely trying to find the next thing...We’re reading everything and just trying to see what makes sense, what we can turn into something that audiences are going to respond to.”

Which Shakespeare story will Anyone But You 2 adapt?

Image via Sony Entertainment

There's nothing like a Shakespeare adaptation, and Anyone But You is actually loosely inspired by William Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing (similar to how 10 Things I Hate About You is inspired by The Taming of the Shrew!). I think they should totally continue this theme for all future sequels. Glen and Sydney would do phenomenal with the hilarity of A Midsummer Night's Dream — maybe instead of an enchanted forest, they take on a busy and colorful local fair, with Claudia and Halle of course. Think about all the possibilities! Nothing says confusion and chaos like fun houses, carnival food, and dead cell phone batteries.

How old is Bea in Anyone But You?

Image via Eddy Chen/Sony Pictures

Bea is a law student at the beginning of Anyone But You, meaning she's in her mid-20s. Considering Sydney Sweeney is 26, this is the perfect fit!

What do you want to see from Anyone But You 2? Check out our TikTok for more pop culture news, and read up on Our Dream Sydney Sweeney & Billie Eilish Sister Movie!

Lead image via Sony Pictures