How to Turn 1 Maxi Skirt into 4 DIY Costumes

Always wanted to learn how to sew, but still haven’t found the time? Well, we’ve got a one-hour e-class for that, yo! And one of the projects that you make in said class happens to be the perfect base for not one, not two, but FOUR easy-as-pie DIY Halloween costumes.

Once you’ve created your red maxi skirt via our class, simply add a few key accessories to transform yourself into Carmen Sandiego, Little Red Riding Hood and Jessica Rabbit. And if you feel like learning to sew with a friend, grab your bestie and turn yourselves into Thing 1 and Thing 2! Special props to our style guru Misty Spinney for bringing each of these costumes to life.

Before we get to the costumes, a little more about Sewing 101: Taught by resident Brit + Co DIY expert Roxy Taghavian, this class will teach you the basics of sewing. The class starts by walking you through the pros and cons of different fabric types. From there, discover some of the most creative places we know to buy colorful fabrics and the right tools. Finally, you’ll learn to sew three different projects. Learn to make a cloth napkin, a pillowcase and a chic maxi skirt.

CARMEN SANDIEGO

Now, costume time! You know we love us a bit of nostalgia. In fact, all of the costumes on this list bring us back to the ’80s and ’90s. Surprise, surprise ;) Let’s get to it.

What you need:

– red hat with a yellow ribbon or belt around it

– red trench

– red dress

– black leggings or skinny jeans

– black knee-high boots

This intercontinental style icon will always be relevant. To create the look, it’s all about making sure you’ve got a few key elements (like that red hat with yellow trim!) covered. Turn your maxi skirt into a strapless mini-dress by rolling it up at the top. If you want a little more shape, you can also add a belt at the waist. Once you’ve got yourself outfitted, you obviously need to find a bunch of dudes to dress up as Rockapella.

THING 1 + THING 2

What you need:

– two red maxi skirts

– two blue clown wigs

– Thing 1 and Thing 2 signs (download here)

– matching sneaks

You know what they say about friends who make things together? They totally stay besties for life. For this costume hack, pull those skirts on up and turn them into dresses. Print out Thing 1 and Thing 2 signs and stick ’em right on your chests. Top the look off with a crazy blue wig and you’re good to go.

LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD


What you need:

– red cape

– white peasant blouse

– black corset-style belt

– white lace trim apron

– red maxi skirt

– black boots

– basket

Let’s bring it wayyyy back to stories from when we were itty bitty. The great thing about this costume is that you can go super simple and simply wear a skirt, white tee and red hoodie, or you can take it to the next level like we did. Now, what’s in that basket?! ;)

JESSICA RABBIT


What you need:

The holidays are officially here and winter breaks and vacations are starting ASAP. These easy sewing projects will make perfect holiday gifts *and* are fun ways to pass the time while you're deep into holiday nesting. Whether you're in the mood to make something simple like a pillow or want to try your hand at upcycling a dress you no longer wear, we've got you covered. These are simple sewing projects that both beginners and novices alike can stitch up, no problem. So dust off that sewing machine and get ready to whip up some sewing-project magic with these 70+ easy DIY projects.

Pocket Dress

Have dress? Add pockets! It's actually not hard. (Brit + Co)

Dress up your pup in this DIY dog collar bow from See Kate Sew.

Notebook Tea Cloths

Wouldn't these just be the most adorable teacher's gift? (via Say Yes)

Holiday Tags

Add a personal touch to gifts and table settings with the darling monogrammed tag. (via Joann)

Super Easy Grid Blanket

Pick out the colors you love and make this super easy blanket for beginners! (via PurlSoho)

Hugs and Kisses Pillows

Show your love with these huggable projects. (Brit + Co)

Sweater Beanie

Recycle your sweater into some cozy new accessories like this beanie. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Whip up this corduroy overall dress for winter with tights and long sleeves. (via Brit + Co)

Reversible Tote

This tote is the ideal size for a grab-and-go bag. It is big enough to hold all your essentials, yet small enough for a quick trip to the store. Try this Rainbow Stripe to get the look in our main photo! (via Haberdashery Fun)

Or try this tote that folds out to a picnic blanket! (via Brit + Co)

Leather iPad Case

Dress up your iPad in a super svelte, super DIY-able leather case. (via Almost Makes Perfect)

Holiday Bottle Gift Bag

Bring a bottle of wine or bubbles gift-wrapped in a reusable bag made by YOU! (via Singer)

Fabric Keychains

The best DIY gift is something that everyone will actually use. These keychains are easy enough you can whip up a whole batch in just an hour. (via My So Called Crafty Life)

Make a basic tee or three! (via Brit + Co)

Lunch Bag

These cute lunch bags make great gift bags too! Maybe toss in some holiday cookies? (via Purl Soho)

Book Clutch

A book lover on your list? Head to the thrift store for some old hardbacks and make these adorable zipper clutches. (via See Kate Sew)

Kid Travel Pillow

Make your little ones holiday travel a wee more comfortable with this easy travel pillow pattern. (via Joanns)

Dinner Napkins

These cloth napkins are eco-friendly *and* make great gifts in the fabric of your choice. (via Sunday Sews)

Pillowcases

DIY your own pillowcases for a playful mix of prints. (via PurlSoho)

Black Faux Leather Clutch

This black faux leather clutch costs less than $5 to make and can be sewn in under an hour. Talk about the perfect afternoon sewing project! (via The Felted Fox)

Crop Top

Make this easy crop top just in time for summer - popsicle print optional! (Brit + Co)

Make these cases for your laptop or tablet. (via Brit + Co)

Flannel Scarves

Made with a rich, luxe flannel shirt, these are simple to sew but are sure to impress. (via Delia Creates)

Seat Cushions Sewing Project for Beginners

Keep your outdoor seating classy with some colorful cushions. They are so easy to make that you can change ’em up every summer to keep them looking fresh. (via Brit + Co)

Lampshade Cover

Refresh an old lampshade with these easy wrap. (via Sunday Sews)

Sew your own pencil skirt in a shade of your choice. (via Brit + Co)

Fringe Purse

This cute leather fringe purse is a great first project for sewing newbies. It’s also the perfect size to hold makeup or money in your purse. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Cozy Mittens

Make these adorable mittens from an old sweater. The only “trick” is to open your thumb a little to make your new mittens more roomy and comfy. (via Brit + Co)

Wallet Organizer

You won’t need a lot of fabric for these bad boys. Plus they sew up quickly, making them great gifts for holding stuff like iPhones, jump drives, memory cards, credit cards, business cards, cash, notes, memo pads, etc… (via LBG Studio)

Leather Tablet

Stylish, protective and tablet-friendly, leather is much easier to work with than you’d expect. (via Brit + Co)

Break out the holiday dog bed with this beginner sewing project. (via Joanns)

Sew this two-piece eyelet set for warm weather travel. (via Brit + Co)

Quilted Box Pouch

Don’t let the zipper deter you from trying this little DIY — it’s really simple once you get the hang of it. Plus, these bags are amazing for all kinds of storage. (via Fort Worth Studios)

Turn Jeans Into A Skirt

Turn those old jeans you don't love anymore into a cute skirt with this easy DIY. (via Singer)

Ruffled Hem

Make those sweaters last one more season by adding a ruffled hem to the bottom. Not only is it adorable, it will add a couple inches to the length. (via It’s Always Autumn)

Make this no-sew wrap crop top in 15 minutes for your BFF this holiday. (via Brit + Co)

Simple Leather Tote

Head to a thrift store and hunt down a leather skirt to make this project super cost effective. (via Kojo Designs)

Kimono

Cozy up with this easy-to-sew, modern take on a kimono. (via Francois et Moi)

Headwrap Bands

These are perfect for getting your hair out of your eyes at the gym or while running errands. They’re another easy-peasy craft you can make out of scraps you have laying around your craft space. (via Delia Creates)

Outdoor Pillows

Here are three options to decorate your outdoor space with big, colorful pillows. You actually probably have most of the items you need sitting around your house right now. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Lumbar Pillow

Make this extra long lumbar pillow using, wait for it… a table runner! (via Liz Marie)

Business Card Wallet

Quit losing your business cards at the bottom of your purse and make one of these cute little card holders. (via A Spoonful of Sugar)

Canvas Totes

Play around with the measurements to get the exact size you need. These bags would work great as a library tote, pool/beach bag, shopping bag or anything else you could possible use a giant tote for. (via The Sweeter Side of Mommyhood)

Swing Dress

Loose and flowy, this bright dress is a breeze to whip together and we are obsessed with that color. (via Merrick’s Art)

Drawstring Travel Bag

Add some gold lettering for a super trendy bag to take to the beach this summer. Instead of iron-on lettering, just add the letters with a gold pen to make things easier. (via Sew DIY)

Leather Passport Holder

This project comes together really quickly and would be an awesome bon voyage gift for someone who's finally embarking on summer travels. (via Lovely Indeed)

Yoga Bag Sewing Idea

You'll be the most stylish girl at the gym with this colorful yoga mat bag. (via Brit + Co)

Gold-Dipped Tote Bag

We’re all about the gold-dipped look on this pretty tote bag. (via Brit + Co)

Geometric Pillows

We think these fluffs are a must for your spring redecorating plans. Why be square when you can add eight sides and a bunch of tassels? (via Brit + Co)

Gold Clutch

We’ve created the most mini metallic clutch ever. It also happens to double as a fanny pack so you can rock it all night long on the dance floor. (via Brit + Co)

Turn a thrift store skirt into a holiday party dress. (via Brit + Co)

Make this no sew clutch for the holidays too! (via Brit + Co)

Make these DIY squeaky dog toys for just under $5. (via Spoonflower)

Fabric Heart Coasters

A great hostess gift any time of the year, these coasters will show your coffee table some love. (via Thirty Handmade Days)

Earbud Pouch

There is nothing more annoying than having to untangle your earbuds from a huge knot. Keep them tidy and knot free with this cute little pouch. (via Dog Under My Desk)

Feather Dishtowel

Spruce up your kitchen with some colorful towels and trendy feather silhouettes. (via Flamingo Toes)

DIY a backpack for kids! (via Brit + Co)

Woven Rag Rug

Technically it’s weaving, not sewing, but this sweet rug would be a really cool addition to your kitchen or laundry room. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Tiny Zipper Pouch

This convenient little bag is a must for all you travel addicts out there. (via Lovely Indeed)

Lace Shorts

Amp up your old summer shorts with some lace trim… or just lace the whole thing for an extra feminine pair of bloomers. (via Sincerely Kinsey)

Kimono Coverup

Stitch this coverup up in just 10 minutes! (Brit + Co)

Skinny Jeans

Update those old bootcut jeans lurking in your closet by turning them into skinny jeans. (via Brit + Co)

Leather Fringe Bag

Be prepared for any adventure with a little carry-all bag you can take any and everywhere. (via Sincerely Kinsey)

Metallic Gem

You can use these for just about anything or stuff them with jewelry to give away as gifts. (via See Kate Sew)

Leather Dipped Pillows

Use some throw pillows you already have to make this the simplest room makeover ever. (via Brit + Co)

Bow Back Sweatshirt

This easy project takes less than two hours and is great to wear as the season changes over from winter to spring. (via Sincerely Kinsey)

Polar Bear Tablet Case

You could make this case with the silhouette of your favorite animal, but the polar bear is pretty cute for these colder months. (via Sincerely Kinsey)

Easy Circle Skirt

Swirl into warmer weather with this bold skirt. The DIY is so simple you can make one in every color. (via Merrick’s Art)

Simple Tulle Skirt

Channel Carrie Bradshaw and wear this flirty skirt to all your holiday events. (via Cotton and Curls)

Baby Headbands

Perfect for the boho babe, these pretty headbands are the cutest thing ever. (via Brit + Co)

Five Star Project

Give yourself a gold star… on your shirt. You deserve it. (via Brit + Co)

Faux Fur Winter Hat

This is one of the coolest, most-stylish Ikea hacks we’ve seen so far. Make yourself into a snowbunny princess this season with this fluffy faux fur hat. (via Kristi Murphy)

Turn a shower curtain into a produce tote with the clever craft. (via Brit + Co)

We can't wait to see all of the DIY magic you come up with. Whether you're looking to update your closet or your decor, these easy sewing projects are a great place to start!

Main Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Follow us on Pinterest for more DIY inspiration, join our newsletter, or check out our online sewing class!

This article has been updated from a previous post.


From running on 3 hours of sleep to constant diaper changes, mamas do so much. We've teamed up with @diapergenieofficial for a special Mother’s Day gift to make things easier for new moms: receive a FREE Diaper Genie Select Pail with square refill technology, plus enough refills to get you off to a great start! The giveaway will consist of one Select Pail + four Jumbo Refills for an associated value of up to $118. Say goodbye to diaper odors in style with this sleek, easy-to-use pail. The winner will also receive a $500 Amazon gift card to shop for all their baby and household needs. Check the deets below!

Enter to win a new Diaper Genie Select Pail and four Jumbo Refills here. Giveaway ends on May 31. One lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 5.

Good luck mamas! #DiaperGenie #MothersDayMagic

Running a business can be one of the most rewarding creative pursuits but sometimes life and work can blend as an entrepreneur. Finding ways to escape your work life so you can focus on your life-life can be good for your well-being and your business.


Conscious fashion designer and TikTok sewing star Tracy Garcia runs her business out of her NYC studio apartment. “My studio space is in my living room, so even when I'm on my couch, binging on a new show and just wanting to decompress, my work is surrounding me,” she says. Getting out of the apartment is key. “It's healthier for me. I'll grab lunch with friends or go on a walk if I need a little bit of fresh air.” She also boxes… like in a ring!



Tracy sells her own sewing patterns, teaches online, creates content and runs a fashion business that keeps her living her dream life in NYC. “I'm so passionate about sustainable fashion, and just being conscious about consumption,” she says. With these many facets of her business, Tracy looks to TurboTax experts to help her with her taxes each year, which allows her to focus on the things she loves most.


In this video, Tracy shows us how she recharges when she finds a little me time around tax time, thanks to TurboTax.




Tracy chatted with us about following her dream and running a successful business while taking care of herself. Here are some of her best work-life tips.


Be Open To Different Paths. Tracy always knew she wanted to start a business but didn’t expect it to happen so soon. “I thought my dream was to become an assistant designer for someone else,” she says. But sometimes life has other plans and it’s important to take the cues and follow the path that makes sense for you, even if it wasn’t what you originally thought would be your journey. Be nimble and follow what feels right.



Seek Out What Brings You Joy. Have a creative passion? The best work comes out of love for what you do. “Sewing is so meditative. When I took sewing classes, I forgot about everything. I was like, I can do this the rest of my life, and I'd be so happy.” Follow your passion and success will follow.


You Don’t Have To Do It All. “If I can hire someone to do things for me, it makes my life so much easier. Why am I going to stress about trying to learn something new? I cannot be my own accountant,” she says. Tracy spends her days mostly on the creative side of her business, designing and making clothes and teaching online. During tax time, she enlists the help of TurboTax experts to review all of the aspects of her business, help her find the best deductions, and file her taxes so she can focus on what she loves to do (and what she’s good at).



Have a Good System in Place. Tracy took a business course in college that helped set her on the path of entrepreneurship but she also had parents who knew how to run a successful business. “My dad was always such a good motivator. He made it clear that you just want to have a good system in place, so you want to do it.” That could mean everything from getting help on the business side of things so you can focus on the creative to setting a schedule, which brings us to our next tip.


Set A Schedule. “Every morning, I look at my calendar. It's in my bedroom for that reason, so when I wake up I can see what's going on that day and what goals I need to reach,” says Tracy. Getting into a routine that works for you can help you stay on track and better manage your business for growth and day to day. “It's reinforcing goals that I set for myself,” says Tracy, who wakes up early in the morning so she’s more productive.


Recharge With Me Time. Taking time away from work to focus on self care or other creative endeavors will only make you a better business owner. It can lift your mood, clear your mind, and help you de-stress. “I love my boxing class. It's really nice to hit a bag and just get all that stress out. I feel so much more motivated and energized throughout the day,” says Tracy.



Find Community. Being a solopreneur can be lonely sometimes. Find a community where you can connect, get your mind off of work, learn something new, and have fun. “On the weekends, I'll go Salsa and Bachata dancing,” says Tracy. “Everyone is so friendly. It's so social. You just dance with everyone. I love just being able to just mentally not think about work sometimes.”


Have A Future Plan. Set your sights high on the big picture, which will keep you motivated over the long term. Create a vision board to help you realize your dreams. A business plan helps too. “My ultimate dream is to open my own production company in Mexico. My parents are from Mexico, so I'd love to go back and employ local artisans and be transparent about the entire process. I want to be able to provide jobs and pay a livable wage and provide health insurance, because I think it's very important to care about everyone who's involved in the entire process.”

Video Direction & Editing by Tracy Garcia.

*Available with Full Service products only. Video meeting while expert does your taxes required.

After compiling my vacation reads, I'm *finally* ready to start combing through Reese Witherspoon's Book Club list. Her revelation about reading books in her cover feature interview with Harper's Bazaar made me realize I need to step my game up ASAP.

Her admirable hobby - that's since led her to create a bourgeoning book club— continues to highlight books with women at the center, girl does she have a great eye for stories that fit every mood. To date, her book club list has amassed over 90 titles of romantic beach reads, thrillers, and more.

Since it's a new year and we're sure you not ready to tackle that many titles, I went through the list to pick the top 26 books worth diving into. Buckle up because they're sure to take our emotions on a ride! After you finish your TBR (To Be Read list), check out 24 Standout Reads From Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club, 20 Captivating Shondaland Book Club Picks, and 16 Must-Reads From The Oprah Winfrey Book Club!

May 2024: How to End a Love Story

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

Trigger warning: This book mentions suicide and grief.
Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard are bound by an event that changed their lives forever. Before you ask, it's not a steamy one night stand where one of them ghosted the other.
Their paths actually crossed because of a pivotal accident that neither of them saw coming and it caused Helen to view Grant as her worst enemy for years. However, time passed and they moved on to separately create lucrative careers. What they couldn't have expected was for their paths to cross, especially not at work.
Given the amazing opportunity to be a writer for the TV adaption of her own successful YA books, Helen anxiously travels to LA to accept the position and hit the reset button on her life. She has a brief moment of euphoria until she realizes that Grant will also be in the writer's room.
Now they'll have to confront their complicated feelings for each other in order not to derail their jobs and lives. They know it's impossible for them to have a true love story, but sometimes the messiness of life is all it takes for two people to find common ground and decide how they want their stories to end.

April 2024: The Most Fun We Ever Had

The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo

When Marilyn Connolly and David Sorenson fell in love, all they knew is that nothing could shake their foundation. Despite their unwavering hope in the past, their current reality looks differently than they imagined. Their four daughters — Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace — each have a unique set of problems that creates of chaos for the family. From the loss of one's husband to the secrets the youngest daughter keeps, the Sorensons are never quite sure what to expect.

In a shocking turn of events, a young man — Jonah Bendt — shows up and reveals that one of the daughters is his mom. He was placed up for adoption some time ago, but he's ready to come home to learn more about his biological family. There may be drama in The Most Fun We Ever Had, but there's still a family who finds a way back to the love that Marilyn and David have always believed in.

March 2024: Anita De Monte Laughs Last 

Art student Raquel only comes Anita de Monte's story after she starts feeling like she's starting to make a name for herself among College Hill's socialites. The more she learns about how Anita's life was horrifically cut short, she starts drawing parallels between their lives. It's almost like history is repeating itself and it's hitting too close to home.

As Gonzalez alternates between both of their perspectives, Raquel and Anita's lives begin to intersect in a way that makes Anita de Monte Laughs Last the kind of novel that'll have you thinking about it longer after you finish the last page.

February 2024: "Redwood Court" by DéLana R.A. Dameron

Redwood Court reads like a historical love letter to Black families and contains relationships that remind me of my own family. When Mika Tabor starts asking questions about her family's history, she receives much more than her class assignment asked for. The more she listens to her grandparents and observes her parents, she realizes they've been telling her meaningful stories all along. From tales of racism to the sweet grasp of a world that began moving past obvious racial tension, this novel offers a glimpse into the homes of many Black families.

While I often say I'd like to pass down books to my kids, Redwood Court has become something that I feel is mandatory to read.

January 2024: "First Lie Wins" by Ashley Elston

Reese's Book Club is coming in hot with their first pick of the year! This thriller of a reader is all about "Evie Porter" and her separate identities. One paints the picture of who she truly is, but her job places her in the position of assuming a new name in order to complete the mission given to her by Mr. Smith. She's never met Mr. Smith, her boss, but she has the inkling that her latest mission hits a little too close to home.

Does he know more about her than she realizes and can she successfully fulfill the goal he has for? Buy your copy of First Lie Wins today to find out!

December 2023: "Before We Were Innocent" by Ella Berman

What would you do if you knew a terrible secret that involved the death of one of your best friends? In Before We Were Innocent, Bess and Joni find themselves trying to escape answering this. However, some things are hard to bury — especially when the past comes knocking in the form of Joni. Will the two former best friends be able to maintain their innocence or will they have to accept the truth about themselves?

November Pick: "Maybe Next Time" by Cesca Major

If the past few years have felt like you've been stuck in a weird time loop, you'll love this page turner by Cesca Major. Maybe Next Time follows Emma as she navigates being a busy literary agent, wife and mother - except she only seems to have time for her career. When her husband is involved in a tragic car accident, Emma finds herself distraught only to wake up and see him alive again.

As the scenario continues to repeat, Emma will have to dig deep inside herself to correct patterns she's been a part of her to save not only her husband but life as she knows it.

October Pick: "Starling House" by Alix E. Harrow

Starling House is a daring tale of what happens when dreams meet determination, grit and evil. All Opal wants to do is create a haven for herself and her brother Jasper but she'll have to fight for it once she finds herself in the mysterious mansion of author E. Starling. In the depths of the shadows, she'll come face to face with things that'll test her resilience.

September Pick: "Mother-Daughter Murder Night" by Nina Simon 

Image via Target

The women of the Rubicon family have a lot to tangle with in Mother-Daughter Murder Night. When powerful matriarch Lana's granddaughter Jack becomes the prime suspect in an unsolved murder, Lana becomes determined to find a killer instead of waiting for her disease to have it's last say. Find out what Nina Simon has in store for the town the Rubicons find themselves living in.

August Pick: "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett

Image via Target

Tom Lake weaves a beautiful tale of remembered love and viewing the humanity of one's parent. When Lara begins to regale her three daughters of a former romance she shared with actor Peter Duke at Tome Lake, they begin to take stock of what they know about their mom as well as their own love lives.

"Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld 

Heartbreak has the potential to make you swear off love, which is something that late night writer Sally Milz knows all too well. She's also a firm believer in the "Danny Horst Rule," the phenomenon where average looking men exclusively date women more attractive than them — until pop star Noah Brewster shows up to host the late night show. Join her for an intoxicating love ride that makes her change her perspective.

"Where The Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens 

If you love a good romance-murder mystery, you'll fall in love with Kya's story. After the town's golden boy winds up dead, everyone in town begins blaming Kya for his murder. With heartbreak and triumph woven throughout, Where The Crawdads Sing will become the summer read you can't put down.

"The House of Eve" by Sadeqa Johnson

Even when forbidden, love seems to find a way in The House of Eve. 15-year-old Ruby is set to be her family's first college attendee, until it appears a scandalous affair will bring her back into poverty. Meanwhile, Eleanor's in love with William, a member of an elite Black family in D.C. that doesn't let just anyone in. The lives of both women will collide in an unexpected way as they forge their own paths.

"The House in the Pines" by Ana Reyes 

Maya witnessed her friend's sudden death in the woods seven years ago. Now, with nothing except a few hazy memories, she's determined to figure out what she saw, and who's behind it. The House In The Pines is proof that sometimes our past — and their secrets — don't stay dead.

"Tiny Beautiful Things" by Cheryl Strayed 

Life can feel like a dumpster fire sometimes which is why Tiny Beautiful Things feels like a soothing hug. If you love advice columns, you'll love the beautiful compilation of questions "Dear Sugar" answers within the pages as Clare sets out to offer advice while her own life falls apart. After you read the book, check out our interview with Sarah Pidgeon, who stars in the Hulu series!

"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng 

New friends Mia and Elena are pitted against each other when everyone in town splits over a custody battle. Adapted into a mini-series on Hulu at the beginning of the pandemic, Little Fires Everywhere is a tale that shows everything isn't always what it seems, and there are always secrets to be discovered.

"Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister 

Wrong Place, Wrong Time is a novel that explores the lengths a mother is willing to take to prevent her son from doing something unspeakable. Will she be able to piece together clues in time or will all hope remain lost?

"Daisy Jones and The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

This titular novel turned Emmy award-nominated Amazon Prime series Daisy Jones & The Six explores the rise — and fall — of a legendary (and fictional) band.

"True Biz" by Sara Nović 

This heartwarming book about life at the River Valley School for the Deaf, and all of its students with completely different backgrounds, will make you laugh and cry with its beautiful depiction of human connection.

"The Club" by Ellery Lloyd 

If you've never liked hearing "How can you hate from outside the club? You can't even get in," you'll be glad you're not a part of this members-only society. The club has been pushed to its limit and everyone has something to hide.

"The Christie Affair" by Nina de Gramont 

Nan infiltrates Agatha Christie's home in 1925, intent on luring her husband away. There's something about love, affairs, and dark secrets that make for a good read, and you won't be able to get enough of this tale where things aren't always what they seem.

"Lucky" by Marissa Stapley 

"She's so lucky" ...or is she? Lucky redefines what it means to be honest when the titular character completes a million-dollar heist, and is left stranded by the very people who taught her how to scam.

"Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo 

When Anna learns the father she never knew is still alive, she travels to West Africa in search of answers. The tale of self-discovery through one's history, as well as the themes of home and belonging, is something we all long to understand at some point.

"L.A. Weather" by María Amparo Escandón 

Families can be complicated, and the Alvarados are no different. If you're looking for a little break from your own family dynamics, you'll get a kick out of reading along as they navigate evacuations, relationship problems, and their father's obsession with the Weather Channel.

"The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller 

What happens when desire spills over and threatens to unravel everything two friends have built? The Paper Palace answers that as Elle must choose between continuing the life she has dedicated herself to and the life she never got to live.

"Seven Days in June" by Tia Williams 

When former lovers Eva and Shane reunite in the midst of their successful literary careers, they find that their chemistry is still as strong as it used to be. But, will the flame fizzle before their lingering questions are answered or will Eva choose vulnerability before Shane disappears again?

"The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave 

What would you do if your significant other disappeared without a trace, only leaving a cryptic note behind? In Hannah's case, she sets out on an unpredictable mission for answers — regardless of what lies ahead. After you read the book, check out our interview with Angourie Rice, who stars in the Apple TV+ series!

"The Sanatorium" by Sarah Pearse 

Le Sommet is a sanatorium-turned-luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Detective Elin arrives to celebrate her estranged brother Isaac's engagement to Laure, and her discomfort turns to all-out horror when Laure goes missing.

"You Have a Match" by Emma Lord 

DNA tests can reveal new information about our ancestry, but when Abby learns that she has an older sister — and that her older sister is an Instagram star — the women decide to meet up and get to the bottom of why their parents split them up in the first place.

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell'Antonia 

Nothing brings families together like food and age-old rivalries, something that sisters Amanda and Mae learn firsthand when they end up on opposite sides of a cooking competition. If you love hit TV series The Bear, you'll love The Chicken Sisters.

Other Stories On Reese Witherspoon's Book Club List

  • "Yellowface" by R.F. Kuang
  • "Cassandra in Reverse" by Holly Smale
  • "Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" by Crystal Smith Paul
  • "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah
  • "The Marriage Portrait" by Maggie O'Farrell
  • "Our Missing Hearts" by Celeste Ng
  • "On The Rooftop" by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
  • "Honey & Spice" by Bolu Babalola
  • "Counterfeit" by Kirstin Chen
  • "The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams
  • "Anatomy" by Dana Schwartz
  • "Honor" by Thrity Umrigar
  • "The Island of Missing Trees" by Elif Shafak
  • "Within These Wicked Walls" by Lauren Blackwood
  • "We Were Never Here" by Andrea Bartz
  • "The Downstairs Girl" by Stacey Lee
  • "Tokyo Ever After" by Emiko Jean
  • "Northern Spy" by Flynn Berry
  • "Firekeeper's Daughter" by Angeline Boulley
  • "Infinite Country" by Patricia Engel
  • "Outlawed" by Anna North
  • "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron
  • "A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow" by Laura Taylor Namey
  • "Group" by Christie Tate
  • "Fable" by Adrienne Young
  • "His Only Wife" by Peace Medie Adzo
  • "Furia" by Yamile Saied Mendez
  • "The Last Story of Mina Lee" by Nancy Jooyoun Kim
  • "You Should See Me in a Crown" by Leah Johnson
  • "Everything Inside" by Edwidge Danticat
  • "I'm Still Here" by Austin Channing Brown
  • "The Guest List" by Lisa Foley
  • "The Henna Artist" by Alka Joshi
  • "UNTAMED" by Glennon Doyle
  • "The Jetsetters" by Amanda Eyre Ward
  • "The Scent Keeper" by Erica Bauermeister
  • "Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid
  • "Conviction" by Denise Mina
  • "The Giver of Stars" by Jojo Moye
  • "Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky
  • "The Secrets We Kept" by Lara Prescott
  • "The Last House Guest" by Megan Miranda
  • "Whisper Network" by Chandler Baker
  • "The Cactus" by Sarah Haywood
  • "From Scratch" by Tembi Locke
  • "The Night Tiger" by Yangsze Choo
  • "The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory
  • "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean
  • "One Day in December" by Josie Silver
  • "The Other Woman" by Sandie Jones
  • "This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel
  • "Still Lives" by Maria Hummel
  • "Next Year in Havana" by Chanel Cleeton
  • "Something in the Water" by Catherine Steadman
  • "You Think It, I'll Say It" by Curtis Sittenfeld
  • "Happiness" by Heather Harpham
  • "Erotic Stories For Punjabi Widows" by Balli Kaur Jaswal
  • "The Light We Lost" by Jill Santopolo
  • "Braving the Wilderness" by Brené Brown
  • "The Last Mrs. Parrish" by Liv Constantine
  • "The Is the Story of a Happy Marriage" by Ann Patchett
  • “The Rules of Magic” by Alice Hoffman
  • "The Lying Game" by Ruth Ware
  • "The Alice Network" by Kate Quinn
  • "Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman

Whether you want to challenge yourself to read a book every couple of days like Reese or choose a few books to get you through the summer, I'm sure you'll find titles to add to your growing library. I already have my eyes on Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and The Club by Ellery Lloyd!

Be sure to follow our weekly newsletter for more updates!

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.

Header Image via Amazon

Growing up on the Outer Banks means I've gone through my fair share of swimsuits. All it takes is one summer of surfing wipeouts, sun bathing, swimming, and hitting up the shops (because you really do everything in a bathing suit on the OBX) to know exactly which bathing suit brands are worth buying — and which are cheap enough to avoid forever. I took to social media to ask real Outer Banks locals which bathing suit brands they can't get enough of. Keep reading for all the details!

Target

Image via Target

I know y'all love Target just as much as I do — and along with their home decor, cute shoes, and comfy clothes, their bathing suit options are some of my friends' favorites. Target's got a ton of diverse and affordable swimwear options that is full of different styles, sizes, and prices. That means there's something for everyone! I'm obsessed with this Underwire Bralette Bikini Top and High Waist High Leg Extra Cheeky Bikini Bottom.

Aerie

Image via Aerie

Aerie is perfect for Outer Banks fans because it's one of the most-used bathing suit brands on the show! This store balances style with comfort and casual, and TBH half the swimsuits are cute enough to be tank tops. Their bathing suits will make you feel confident and add a pop of color to your summer wardrobe! This Smiley® String Triangle Bikini Top and Cheekiest Tie Bikini Bottom are a great place to start ;).

​Old Navy

Image via Old Navy

Old Navy is a great place to shop for affordable basics, and that definitely extends to swimsuit season. Their bathing suits come in a range sizes, and they're durable, classic, and super affordable (a lot of them are under $20!). They also have just enough Americana edge to live out your '00s rom-com dreams. I can't stop looking at the Zip-Front Bikini Swim Top and High-Waisted Bikini Swim Bottoms.

Body Glove

Image via Body Glove

Body Glove is one bathing suit brand that's just as functional as it is stylish, and it's also equal parts feminine and sporty for any gal who's always on the go. The Free Flow Eli One-Piece Swimsuitis one of my favorite suits because it's so colorful and it's also supportive, which you absolutely need when taking part in a treasure hunt.

AlySwim

Image via AlySwim

If you're looking for the true Outer Banks experience, then you should grab a suit made by someone who grew up there! AlySwim is totally customizable, and a lot of the suits are reversible so you get two looks for the price of one. With trendy patterns and vibrant colors, bathing suits like the Blue Hawaiian Eva Top and Bottoms will make a bold statement.

Rey Swimwear

Image via Rey Swimwear

The bathing suits from Rey Swimwear are as classy as they come, and it feels like there are endless options for colors, patterns, and silhouettes. There are also options for longer torsos, which is such a blessing for us #TallGirls. Sarah Cameron would be all over this Marie bathing suit!

More Bathing Suit Brands OBX Locals Love

Image via Kenny Flowers

Maaji is the thing of our '90s dreams, and each bathing suit will make you feel the summer magic we crave all year long. I love the Hot Magenta Adhara V Wire Bralette Bikini Top and Sublimity Regular Rise Classic Bikini Bottoms!

Left on Friday is for the minimalists. But just because the swimsuits are simple and elegant doesn't mean they're boring — and the asymmetrical silhouette on the Shoreline Suit proves it.

Kenny Flowers immediately reminds me of Palm Royale every time I look on their site because of the old school vibe and bright colors. I NEED the Acapulco Underwire Bikini Top and High Waist Bikini Bottom!!

Lime Ricki is the place to go if you're looking for modest swimsuits that will also turn heads all summer long. The bold prints and bright colors are both nostalgic and playful, and it's also a really accessible brand. Celebrate your individuality in a suit like the Shell Stripe Ruffle-Strap One Piece.

Korni Jeane lets you mix and match different vibes to create a bathing suit that's unique to you and your personal aesthetic. I'm confident Kiara would love this Bandeau Top and All Ruffled Up Bottoms.

Every cute bathing suit needs equally cute accessories so check out The 5 Most Comfortable Walking Sandals For Summer, Ranked next!

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

Lead image via Kenny Flowers