35 Summer DIY Decor Ideas for a Grown-Up Apartment

Jul 05, 2016

For all you recent grads who’ve just moved into your own apartment — first of all, congrats! Now that you’ve got your own place, it’s time to *own* it with DIY home decor that reflects the chic, stylish grown-up you truly are. As a bonus, you’ll now have plenty of projects apartment DIYs to keep you busy on those lazy summer days. Scroll on to peruse 35 DIY ideas to make your new space truly yours.

1. DIY Anthro Rug: You can actually save up to $400 on this Anthropologie rug hack! If that’s not enough to convince you to take on this project, just imagine your living room floor covered with this beautiful and vibrant accent rug. All you need is fabric paint, painter’s tape and a basic IKEA MORUM rug. (via Brit + Co)

2. DIY Custom Bench: If you love the originality of a custom piece of decor, consider this charming bench made from scratch. Don’t be intimidated — as long as you can follow step-by-step instructions, you can totally take on this DIY. Just pick out your favorite fabric and head on over to our tutorial for the deets. (via Brit + Co)

3. DIY Painted Chair: Turn a basic chair into your living room’s focal point with a little bit of fabric paint. You can copy this chic pattern or try your hand at other whimsical prints. (via Sugar & Cloth)

4. DIY Rug Hack: Complement your seating area with this DIY rug made from a yard of fabric. This particular upholstery fabric cost $30 per yard, which might sound a little pricey, but if you think about it as $30 for an entire rug, it’s a pretty good deal! (via Brit + Co)

5. DIY Marble and Gold Coffee Table: Luxe marble and gold come together in this elegant coffee table design. Combined with its stylish hairpin legs, this DIY darling practically screams modern. (via Sugar & Cloth)

6. DIY Geometric Tasseled Pillows: If you’re not interested in conformity, we’ve got some good news. You can at least rebel against conventional living room decor by creating these unique octagonal tassel pillows. (via Brit + Co)

7. DIY Woven Floor Pouf: Spruce up your grown-up living room with a cozy element like this versatile little pouf. Customize yours by swapping out the fabric for a pattern that suits your personal aesthetic. (via Brit + Co)

Bedroom

8. DIY Copper Pipe Side Table: A grown-up bedroom calls for a legit bedside table. (Sorry, no more milk crates allowed!) Abandon your frugal college ways while still saving $$ by making this chic DIY copper pipe side table instead of buying one at the store. (via Brit + Co)

9. DIY Confetti Chair: Turn a basic plastic chair into a completely new form of seating with colorful vinyl confetti pieces. Throw in an equally bright pillow for extra cozy points and you’re all set. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

10. DIY Minimalist Daybed With Storage: If you’re tired of pumping up an air mattress every time you have guests, consider this more permanent setup. This stylish daybed doubles as a cute couch. (via Proper)

11. DIY Dresser: Contact paper may just be the best thing to ever have happened to crafts. Transform your old dresser into an upscale-looking one with something as simple as plain or printed contact paper. (via Fall for DIY)

12. DIY Furry Stool: Play with different textures to create your ideal aesthetic. To give your bedroom a luxe feel, add this faux fur-covered stool that just radiates comfort. And you can make it yourself in minutes! (via A Beautiful Mess)

13. DIY Painted Plywood Headboard: As minimalist as this DIY headboard is, the pop of color keeps things fresh. To avoid splinters, make sure to sand the wood, focusing on the edges, before wiping it clean. (via A Bubbly Life)

14. DIY Pom Pom Rug: This fun rug can function as a wall hanging and table runner as well. So if you’ve got some time on your hands, it’s worth making this super versatile and extra cute piece for your bedroom. (via Brit + Co)

Office

15. DIY Filing Cabinet: You won’t have to worry about unsightly piles of paper, folders and other bits and bobs with this sleek filing cabinet. Keep your office from appearing drab with a splash of color and personalized typography. (via Studio DIY)

16. DIY Color Block Clocks: Unfortunately these clocks won’t make time go by faster, but they’ll definitely brighten up your office space. Made of cork trivets, these cheap-but-chic clocks are a great option for decorating other rooms as well. (via Brit + Co)

17. DIY Color Block Office Chair: Basic office seating is no match for this pretty color-blocked chair. Its pops of color lend its minimalist style a playful element. (via A Joyful Riot)

18. DIY Balsa Wood Desk Organizer: A tidy work space will leave you with less to worry about when working. Avoid the stress that poor organization generates by making this multi-tiered desk organizer. (via The Lovely Drawer)

19. DIY Honeycomb Shelves: These striking shelves combine wall storage and wall art. Now you can experience the benefits of both functions with this cool office project. (via Burkatron)

20. DIY Pop-Up Pencil Holder: You might have seen a diner use these as straw holders, but you can repurpose them to store virtually all your office writing supplies. With a little paint, this retro container becomes a chic pencil cup. (via Brit + Co)

21. DIY Sharpie Watercolor Planter: There’s nothing you can’t brighten up with a little bit of greenery. Pop a cheery plant into this colorful DIY planter to spruce up your desk. (via Brit + Co)

Kitchen

22. DIY Modern Bottle Opener: Give your kitchen a modern touch with this DIY bottle opener made of plexiglass. Install it on your kitchen wall for a convenient tool with an artsy flair. (via A Beautiful Mess)

23. DIY Color-Dipped Bar Stools: If you’re obsessed with the color-dipped look, bring the trend to your kitchen with this stylish stool makeover. Using painter’s tape, mark off the legs in your chosen pattern and spray paint your heart out. (via Brit + Co)

24. DIY Hanging Fruit Basket: Make the most of your small kitchen. To utilize every bit of surface you can, make this useful hanging fruit basket that won’t take up any table or counter space. (via Homedit)

25. DIY Mini Wooden Serving Boards: For this serving board DIY, you’ll need wooden hexagons, painter’s tape and paint. You can darken the wood using a non-toxic stain to make them appear more luxe. Once the paint dries, make sure to spray the entire board with clear spray shellac to ensure a food-safe surface. (via Sugar & Cloth)

26. DIY Color-Blocked Spice Jars: Snag however many jars you need at your local dollar store, tape them off with painter’s tape and use acrylic craft paint to achieve this easy look. For the finishing touch, spray the lids a shimmery shade of gold and follow with a coat of shellac. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

27. DIY Dip-Dye Typography Kitchen Towels: Don’t fret if embroidery isn’t your forte. Consider making these DIY typography kitchen towels that are a tad more chic than stenciled ones. With the help of an Epson iron-on label maker and fabric dye, you’ll be setting kitchen decor #goals in no time. (via Lovely Indeed)

28. DIY Vertical Herb Garden: A little bit of greenery goes a long way, especially if it’s in the form of herbs you can actually use. If you’re dealing with limited space, spruce up your kitchen with this fun vertical DIY garden. (via Brit + Co)

Bathroom

29. DIY Gilded Ceramic Vanity Set: Though inspired by vintage ceramics, this confetti-sprinkled vanity set is thoroughly modern. With its gleaming gold edges, this elegant ceramic dish is just what your bathroom countertop is missing. (via Brit + Co)

30. DIY Patterned Candles: You won’t believe how easy it is to make these pretty patterned candles. Think of the DIY process as a temporary tattoo for your candles. To make, you’ll need tissue paper, free printables and a hairdryer. (via Brit + Co)

31. DIY Shower Curtain: Your shower curtain reveals a lot about your bathroom. Make sure it only has good things to say with this bright, beachy project. To get the look, use painter’s tape and outdoor spray paint. (via Brit + Co)

32. DIY Ombré Rope Hamper: This handwoven hyacinth wicker basket puts all other hampers to shame with its unparalleled style. Set out a vase of matching pink flowers and your bathroom will look so grown-up chic! (via One O)

33. DIY Lucite Towel Bar: Introduce lucite, a hot-right-now decor staple, into your bathroom with this DIY towel bar. Spray the wall fixtures a metallic gold and you’ve got one sleek-lookin’ bathroom accent. (via A Beautiful Mess)

34. DIY Bath Tissue Holder: It’s easy to shove your extra rolls of toilet paper under the sink, but now you can show them off in a sleek tube that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your bathroom decor. To prevent humidity from ruining your bath tissue, get a container that comes with a lid. (via Design Improvised)

35. DIY Bathroom Storage Bags: Complement your bathroom’s clean aesthetic with these DIY storage bags that are both functional and stylishly minimalistic. Though these feature a flash of metallic silver iron-on vinyl, you can choose the shade that suits your bathroom color scheme best. (via The Lovely Drawer)

Which of these DIYs will you take on this summer? Follow us on Pinterest for more chic and creative DIY ideas!

Japandi Design Will Make You Fall In Love With Neutral Decor Again

With so much in common, there's a lot to love about Japanese and Scandinavian design. Both aesthetics emphasize neutral and earthy colors, sustainable materials, and the great outdoors (plants, branches, and solids woods). Japandi design brings the two decor trends into one happy, harmonious place, influenced by the subtle differences in each design. There's the comfort and warm minimalism of the Scandi style combined with the elegance, attention to detail and wabi-sabi, or rustic simplicity (wabi) and beauty in imperfection (sabi), of the Japanese side. Here's a look at how to achieve the look with our shoppable favorites!

Open Spaces

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

This 1930s ranch-style home in the Los Feliz Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles exudes a Japandi vibe, with its open and airy layout, beautiful cabinetry in Douglas Fir, clean modern lines, tons of natural light and high-end materials to elevate the design, all reimagined by AIA award-winning architects Klein Agency in collab with builder SITU Development.

Neutral Color Palette

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

Look for shades of white, beige, gray and earth tones to create a serene and calming atmosphere.The Klein design team was inspired by the home’s natural surroundings and sweeping views. Green tones reflect the nature outside, as do the beautiful wide plank white oak flooring by Madera. The relaxed organic bedding hint to a more Scandi hygge look.

Functionality

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

The Klein architects added two more bedrooms and additional square footage to maximize the home’s functionality and flow. Where does all the clutter go? These built-in closets offer tons of storage space so you never see any.

Minimalist Decor

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

Minimal artwork and natural elements set the scene for a quiet workspace, where focus is key. Don't be afraid to include vintage items and personal mementos too. Things that hold meaning to you are especially important.

Natural Elements

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

The windows are unobstructed throughout the home, maximizing natural light, and the decor embraces the outdoors with indoor branches and greenery (even in the shower).

Balanced Symmetry

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

Rise and shine: sleek furniture and a balanced layout, as well as limited decoration, are signature markers of Japandi design. Furniture and decor feels purposeful, like you use what you love and need.

Tranquility

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

Indoors and out, Japandi design prioritizes relaxation and mindfulness, as shown in this stunning Los Feliz home. Keep the design simple, clutter-free, and peaceful. It's all about your well-being and creating a sanctuary for living.

Shop Our Japandi Design Favorites

West Elm Olivia Pendant

This sleek, fan-like pendant makes an artistic statement in any room.

Etsy Japanese Wall Art

Japandi doesn't mean lack of color. This rich emerald print of floating cranes adds a pop to your neutral decor.

Homary Japandi Wood Outdoor Patio Lounge Chair Armchair

Sit back and relax on this solid wood + rope outdoor chair in a rustic neutral hue, perfect for a Japandi-style patio.

Japandi Natural Retracted & Extendable TV Stand

Furniture that is multi-functional is very Japandi. This piece has functional adjustable shelves, an extendable TV stand (or kids table), and is perfect for your living room, bedroom or office.

Majer Upholstered Sleeper Sofa

This minimal but unique sofa also functions as a bed, plus it has hidden armrest storage space.

Ane Upholstered Chaise Lounge

Here's your future reading spot, or the perfect perch for a zen moment with a nature view.

The Citizenry Hinoki Wood Side Table

These versatile side tables made in Japanese hinoki wood are stunning from every angle.

Japanese Wabi-Sabi Style Bird Nest Shape Lighting

Organic shapes like this geometric chandelier create a feeling of nature indoors.

EM Wabi Sabi Wave Sculptural Metal Chair with Cushion-Black

It's all in the details. From your dining room to your office, this curvy steel-frame chair is art that's functional too.

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

Header image courtesy of Klein Agency

Your Perfect Pair Of New Balance Sneakers, Based On Your Vibes

Personal style is personal for a reason. Whatever you wear is a complete reflection of who you are, and this is especially true for what shoes you slip into every day. Everyone’s got their go-to sandals, but sneakers are an entirely different game, I tell ya.

If your fave footwear brand is New Balance and you just so happen to be in the market for some squeaky-clean sneaks, I’ve basically done all the research for you to help you find your perfect pair. This list of the most popular New Balance sneakers details not only each style’s practicality, but their personality, too.

Ahead, find your perfect New Balance sneakers – based on your vibes!

New Balance 9060: The ‘Fit Flexer

If you just can’t resist dressing to the nines every single day, the New Balance 9060s will fit right into your fashionista flair.

These “proudly futuristic” New Balance sneakers deliver on Y2K aesthetics beyond compare. The wider base is reminiscent of Nike Shox – very tech-y and otherworldly. The upper part is made from mesh and suede, supplying a super elevated vibe.

The white and cream white coloration is so easy to pair with most every ‘fit. They’ll match with cargo pants, vintage jeans, or even mini skirts and denim shorts.

Reviewers of the New Balance 9060 are glad they invested in this $150 shoe because it's so versatile.

One reviewer toted the 9060’s for fitting into “all aspects” of their lifestyle. Another said that the arch supports “unreal,” so though they’re more fashion-forward than other New Balance kicks, they’re still uber-comfortable for a range of activities.

New Balance 990: The Thrift Shopper

The New Balance 990s are straight-up dad sneakers to the core, so if you gravitate towards the thrift store (or all things vintage-y), you’ll find that they go swimmingly with most outfits and will stand up to long thrift trips.

While they were originally manufactured for running (and they still are), the 990s scream streetwear to me. They appear more elevated than your average athletic running shoe, thanks to the smooth pigskin and fine mesh.

The inside is fitted with a bouncy FuelCell midsole cushioning, and the shoe is available in 4 different widths. The range!

The New Balance 990s are very similar to the New Balance 993s, which is less performance-based.

New Balance 574 Core: The Weekend Warrior

Whether you're hitting the club or the farmer’s market on the weekends, you want to be comfortable (I mean, who doesn't?). The New Balance 574 Cores are made for the weekend warriors.

New Balance describes this signature shoe as “uncomplicated, rugged, durable, and comfortable.”

Though the 574s are pretty basic, they’re earned themselves icon status. You’re sure to see at least one pair when you go out.

The outer layer is made from suede and mesh materials dotted with 100% recycled polyester details.

New Balance 550: The Sneakerhead

These New Balance sneakers aren’t just black and white. They’re “sea salt” with “gray matter” and “magnet.” So yeah, if you consider yourself overly particular about your sneakers, the New Balance 550s are the shoe for you.

These were revived from the late 80’s and early 90’s then re-released full-time in 2021, and they’ve been a modern fan-favorite ever since.

The flatter soles on these sneaks mean they’re not as practical for running or walking long distances, but since they have a history with basketball, you might be able to rock ‘em on the court. More than anything, they definitely give basketball vibes, which is perfect for any streetwear ensemble.

The mixed materials and chunky approach to the classic New Balance logo give these an unmistakable air.

According to New Balance, these best fit people with an average arch height. The thick sole and cushy ankle padding work the hardest to support your feet, rather than an arched insole.

New Balance 530: The Gym-Goer

The New Balance 530s are giving Erewhon baddie. They’re giving I drink smoothies for breakfast. They’re giving I live and breathe pilates.

The stark white colorway of these sneakers reminds me of the clean girl aesthetic, and they’re so pretty, you may have a hard time getting them dirty.

Though very stylish on the outside, it’s what’s on the inside that counts with the New Balance 530s. They’re fitted with an ample midsole section that cushions and compresses your step.

New Balance Fresh Foam: The 10K Steps A Day-er

For the more athletic among us (hello, hot girl walks!), the New Balance Fresh Foam sneakers are the way to go. They’re designed especially for walking and running, so you can count on them to be comfy.

They have an extra-soft cushioning for a cozy step, and every aspect of the footbed is intended to stabilize the foot.

This shoe especially supports walkers or runners with the tendency to step heel first, a bonus co-signed by the American Podiatric Medical Association – this pair received their Seal of Acceptance.

The upper part of the shoe is made of mesh, so it’s highly breathable, even on hot days. They’re great for high arches, too!

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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 New Balance.

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20 Coastal Home Accents For Your Modern Beach House Vibes

I'm so inspired by coastal decor in all of its renditions, from the Nancy Meyer’s-inspired coastal grandmother to elegant and coastal luxemodern, from California surf shacks to Cape Cod cottages. While coastal decor can be an all-year decor trend that combines fresh whites, soft blues and natural elements like jute, wood, and rattan, it’s around this time of year that I start to really embrace the relaxed and refined aesthetic. Here are 20 coastal accents to refresh your home for the season.

Coastal by Gray Malin

Coffee table books are a great way to bring in a coastal aesthetic. New York Times bestselling author and photographer Gray Malin is known for his aerial beach photography in the U.S. This new collection highlights coastal locations from around the world.

Spoonflower Peel & Stick Art Deco Swans Wallpaper

This removable and eco-friendly wallpaper (water-based inks and no toxins) features a swan graphic in a seaside color for a breezy addition to any room.

Aitken Flatweave Cotton Geometric Rug

This boho cotton rug also leans into the greener side of coastal decor with a fun polka dot print.

Nauvoo Dresser Mirror

Bring in natural elements like wood and rattan to keep your coastal decor casual and earthy.

Soho House Pool Towel, Nashville

Soho House uses these classic cabana stripe towels around their poois. This fade-resistant one in their signature hue is used at their Nashville location.

Surf Tribe Book by Stephan Vanfleteren

This photo book shows surf culture in a new light, showing the passion for nature and respect for the ocean that surfers universally have.

The Citizenry Meru Counter Stool

Bringing in natural elements in a refined way is a key part of coastal decor. These modern counter stools in a beautiful ethically-harvested mindi wood are handcrafted by fair-trade artisans in Jepara, Indonesia.

Pendleton White Sands Printed Quilt Set

Inspired by sand dunes against a blue sky, this machine-washable cotton quilt is a nod to the serene landscape of New Mexico's White Sands National Monument.

Indigo Surf Textile Art

This textile art features hand-cut vintage dark indigo lettering on a lighter indigo background and a small wave stitched detail. It comes with the salt oak frame and each one is one of a kind.

Blu Dot Invitation 24" Bench

Woven seating in a white oak wood frame brings in the sandy colored hues of coastal decor. Blu Dot is one of my favorite modern decor brands, and this quiet luxury bench is so lovely IMO.

Nathan James Outdoor Patio Loveseats (set of 2)

Extend your coastal decor to the great outdoors with these acacia wood loveseats and chairs with washable cushions.

Dumae Malibu 3-Piece Setting

This LA-based ceramics company designs unique pieces for casual and special occasions. Love the organic edge on these that would suit a coastal decor aesthetic.

Begonia Dining Chair

Adore the idea of these upholstered chairs in a cabana stripe around a wood dining table - so chic and fun!

World Market White Marble Shell Bookends

Marble shell bookends feel just a tiny bit kitsch without feeling too old-school beach decor. Add these to your desk or bookshelf.

Serena & Lily Jute Border Rug

Hand-tied fringe hints to a surf shack vibe while the elegantly framed jute rug keeps it more refined.

'Crowded Summer' Frame + Photograph Print

Make a statement with a beachy landscape that recalls the best of summer days.

Surf Shacks Book by Matt Titone

Find anecdotes and photographs in this book that reveals a more personal side to surfing.

Zara Embroidered Border Towel

Swooning over these cotton terry towels with an embroidered detail (an illustrated shower) and contrast border in the most perfect blue.

If Lost Please Return Me To The Sea Art Print - Digital Download

Cheeky prints like this one make sure your coastal decor doesn't get too serious.

Surf Shack: Laid-Back Living by the Water by Nina Freudenberger

Peek inside surfers' homes, from bungalows to trailers to cabins, in this bestselling design tome for coastal decor lovers.

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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 courtesy of Shutterstock + Wayfair

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Let Your Imagination Run Wild With These 6 Romantasy Books

I'm no stranger to romance and smut books — thanks to my sister's secret stash — but I've finally given in to the "romantasy" genre that's floated around BookTok lately. And yet again, my sister is at the center of my newfound reading interest, gifting me (voluntarily this time) Fourth Wingand Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros. I know I may be a little late to the party, but these books are dominating my reading interests this summer. It's like I just can't get enough of all the romance, fantasy, challenges, and spicy scenes!

If this sounds like you, here are the top 6 romantasy books to jump start your journey into the genre. Just be sure to sit in front of a fan while reading some of them, though — they can get pretty hot and spicy! 🥵

The Best Romantasy Books

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

*Sigh* Where do I start? This book squeezed my heart and cradled it at the same time. It also stoked an inner fire that felt eerily similar to a couple of scenes in the book that I've bookmarked 👀.

Meeting Violet Sorrengail was like peeling back the layers of thoughts I had about myself as a child. She initially thinks she's too fragile to be a gifted dragon rider like her siblings Brennan and Mira, but her mother — General Sorrengail — isn't easily swayed. So, off Violet goes to train or die trying.

From enemies who are more than willing to kill her at a heartbeat to developing a deep bond with two dragons — something that's unheard of — Violet finds herself realizing she's more powerful than she's given herself credit for.

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

I'm still trying to make sense of the way Iron Flame took my emotions on the wildest ride. Although I'm still recovering and yearning for more, I have to commend Rebecca Yarros for giving us two of the best Romantasy books of our time.

When we catch up with Violet Sorrengail again, she's managed to enter her second year at Basgiath War College without dying. Although she's a lot more resilient than she gives herself credit for, she knows there's still so much to learn.

The lessons she's learning are harsher and it seems like she's still being targeted for several reasons. As she tries hard to navigate the things she needs to learn in order to survive, she begins realizing there's an internal threat that's far greater than anyone could've imagined.

It'll take all of her allies, her dragons, and her greatest love to eliminate this threat. The problem is that nothing will ever be the same once it's all said and done.

Deep Is The Fen by Lili Wilinson

If you're looking for a romantasy book that's a little less spicy, Deep Is The Fen is a great read!

It centers around Merry's reluctant interactions with the magic she's been trying so hard to stay away from. When she finds out that her best friend Teddy is joining the Toadmen, she makes it her personal mission to stop him. What she doesn't think anyone knows is her ability to see the swirling magic that surrounds all life forms.

It's this same second sight that comes in handy as she joins forces with her sworn enemy Caraway Boswell. Together, they attend the famed Toad ritual in Deeping Fen and it's only until it's too late that Merry realizes the Toadmen are more sinister than she thought.

And they've been waiting for her.

The Midnight Bargain by C.L. Polk

If you have a taste for more magic, you'll love reading The Midnight Bargain.

Unlike our heroine in Deep Is The Fen, Beatrice Clayborn embraces that she's able to use magic, but she has keep it hidden lest she be confined by a 'marital collar.' If you just shuddered, I'm here to tell you it's as bad as it sounds.

Our dear Beatrice wants to become a Magus, but her family is more concerned with making sure she's prepared to secure an amazing marriage. In other words, women aren't supposed to be able to wield magic as powerfully as men. There's also the fact that her family isn't exactly wealthy so her getting married would truly help them.

Still, Beatrice decides to keep pursuing a desire to become a Magus though her plans are almost ruined when another sorceress steals the one thing that'll secure her position. Desperate to have it in her possession again, Beatrice does a bit of conjuring that leads her to a crossroads.

Will she choose her dreams over her family's future or will she give up everything — magic, who she is at her core, and her goals — to save them?

The Hemlock Queen by Hannah Whitten

I highly recommend that you read The Foxglove King before starting this book, but it's on the list because it's my favorite out of the series!

The Hemlock Queen picks up after the twisted king August has died, but his influence is still felt among the royal court. They're not exactly thrilled that Prince Bastian and the trusted Lore are trying to change what they've become used to, creating a lot more unruliness than they were anticipating. It's in the midst of this that Lore can sense a coldheartedness growing in Prince Bastian that wasn't there before.

As time passes, something begins beckoning to Lore to pay more attention to things around her. It wants her to find the truth about herself and what's in front of her.

She'll have to race against the time to find the answers before she loses Bastian and everything else she loves.

The Hanging City by Charlie N. Holmberg

Lark has spent years hiding from her overly domineering father and hasn't found a place to call home yet. The thing that's kept her safe is her ability to cause anyone to feel fear in her presence which has come in handy. With no other options, she decides to seek refuge among the trolls in Cagmar.

She's quickly accepted into their society because they realize she's not like most humans that are in Cagmar. The only rule she has to follow is to never kill a troll even though the most powerful one utterly despises her for being human.

She'll have to learn how to survive in a brand new way while figuring out things about herself, her past, and the family she grew up in.

What's your favorite romantasy book? Let us know in the comments, and check out our storefront for more fab reads!

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

Lead images via Amazon

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Grab Your Cosmos Because "And Just Like That..." Season 3 Is Now In Production

Ladies and fashionistas, hold on to your Manolo Blahniks because our favorite New York City dames are coming back for a third season of And Just Like That.... That's right, the cult classic Sex and the City spinoff is set to grace our screens once again! So, what can we expect from AJLT's junior season? Buckle up, darlings, as we delve into all the juicy details.

When will "And Just Like That" Season 3 come out?

Photograph by Craig Blankenhorn/Max

Now, here's the catch — while the fabulous return of our beloved Manhattanites is on the horizon, there's no set return date just yet. The writers strikeand SAG-AFTRA strike put production on hold for a while, but this delay gave us all the more time to binge-watch and reminisce about Carrie's iconic rent-controlled apartment. So, don't fret; we'll have more than enough time to sip our cosmos and rekindle our SATC love affair.

On May 1, 2024 Sarah Jessica Parker confirmed the series was back in production when she posted a photo of her script! "Here. We. Go. X, SJ," she says in the caption. While she perfectly positioned her pen to block the name of the first episode's title, we can see the last three letters look like "OOD." The title could be anything from "For Good" to "The Neighborhood" and I'm very curious to find out.

Where can you stream "And Just Like That" Season 3?

Photograph by Craig Blankenhorn/Max

Before we dive into the excitement of season 3, make sure you're up to speed by streaming the first two seasons of And Just Like That... on MAX. That's where we'll find season 3, too!

Which "And Just Like That" cast members will return for season 3?

Photograph by Craig Blankenhorn/Max

Let's talk about the heart and soul of And Just Like That... — the cast. Sans Samantha, it's likely that all of our favorite characters from season 2 will be making a glorious comeback for season 3. With Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, and Kristin Davis all donning the executive producer hats, it's a safe bet that ¾ of the original SATC gang will grace our small screens once more. Fingers crossed Nicole Ari Parker, Sarita Choudhury, John Corbett, Karen Pittman, and more of our AJLT faves come back, too!

Who's not returning? According toThe Daily Mail, Sara Ramirez was let got from the show. Ramirez, who uses they/them pronouns, hinted at their departure from AJLT on Instagram. They wrote this statement on their story:

"Our industry is so duplicitous. While they give awards away, casting directors and agents are making blacklists of actors and workers who post anything in support of Palestinians in Gaza to ensure they will not work again. While they lift up some of their own clients who have spoken up against this genocide, they are firing and letting others who have smaller platforms go. While they award 'lgbtq orgs', they are silent on those orgs ties to weapons manufacturers who are currently supporting the Israel military as it commits genocide on Palestinian lives that include LGBTQIA2S+ lives."

The statement ended with a very tongue-in-cheek reference, "It's wild how performative so many in Hollywood are, even more performative than the last character I played."

Though Ramirez intimated that they got fired for their political beliefs, but allegedly the show has other reasons for the cast change. According to reporting from The Daily Mail, a source revealed that Che was "too annoying" as a character. It's no secret that people have strong feelings about Che Diaz, but we haven't received an official statement from the AJLT team confirming this reasoning.

Reporting from Varietyrevealed that Che's character simply came to a "natural conclusion." Their sources maintain that the severed ties with Sara Ramirez had nothing to do with their politics and everything to do with the fact that Miranda and Che's relationship was over.

Will Samantha Jones return for "And Just Like That" Season 3?

Photograph by Craig Blankenhorn/Max

The burning question on everyone's mind...will Samantha Jones make a triumphant return to the city that never sleeps? Season 2 did give Samantha's fans a taste of what they craved when Kim Cattrall made a brief appearance in the finale. However, for those yearning for a classic brunch scene with all four of the original cast members, it's time to temper your expectations.

After a revealing interview on the Today Show back in June, Kim Cattrall put the Samantha saga to rest. When asked by Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager about a potential season 3 comeback, Cattrall left us with lingering uncertainty, stating, "That's as far as I'm going to go."

Though it might be disheartening to know that Samantha won't be gracing our screens in the upcoming season, it's essential to remember that the magic of And Just Like That... extends beyond one character. Carrie, Charlotte, and Miranda's enduring friendship and the vibrant energy of New York City are still very much at the heart of the show.

Carrie Bradshaw's Apartment

Image via Max

While we all anxiously await any news about And Just Like That... Season 3, watch this homage to Carrie's classic apartment.

Who's your favorite And Just Like That character? Let us know in the comments!

Header image via Craig Blankenhorn/Max

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