Make This Gilded Watercolor Funfetti Cake Easter Eggs Dessert Recipe

Marianne Koo
Mar 22, 2016

Easter was always my favorite holiday growing up. I love everything about it: the colors, the egg hunts and, of course, the sugar! Anyone who knows me will agree that I have the biggest sweet tooth (no joke, I share bags of candy so that I don’t eat them all myself). So, this year I jumped at the opportunity to DIY some Easter treats. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to make the cutest desserts for your Easter brunch using our Watercolor Gold Leaf Cake Kit. These adorable cakes will have your guests shouting, “I LOVE GOOOOOOOLLLLD!” Goldmember would be proud.

These cakes are almost too pretty to eat… almost.

Materials included in the kit:

– gel food colors

– edible gold leaf

– clear vanilla extract

– sea sponges

– paintbrush

Materials not included in the kit:

— cake mix

— eggs

— vegetable oil

— water

— fondant

— whisk

— spoon

— egg-shaped silicon mold

Get your materials together (or buy the kit HERE) and let’s get started!

Instructions:

1. Combine all of the ingredients needed for your chosen cake mix into a bowl, and mix thoroughly.

2. Spoon the cake batter into the egg molds, filling the molds about 3/4 full. Bake according to the instructions for your specific cake mix.

3. Allow the cake to cool after baking, and then trim the rounded tops with a serrated knife to create a flat surface. Remove the eggs from the molds.

4. Roll the fondant to about 1/8-inch thickness and drape it over the cake egg. Press down along the edges.

5. Using a knife, carefully trim along the edge of the egg, and remove the excess fondant.

6. Smooth the edges of the trimmed fondant with your fingers.

7. Squeeze a small amount of the gel food coloring into a bowl, and use a wet sponge to dab some of the food coloring onto the egg.

8. Dip your paintbrush into the vanilla extract, and dab a bit onto the surface of the egg where you’d like the gold foil to go.

9. Using the back end of your brush, carefully pick up a small amount of gold foil and place it onto your egg. Repeat this for all of your eggs.

10. Allow the eggs to dry completely before handling.

Combine all of the ingredients needed for your cake mix into a bowl. We chose to use Funfetti cake mix for an additional layer of color.

Thoroughly whisk all of the ingredients together until the batter is smooth and free of dry clumps.

Carefully spoon the batter into the silicone egg mold. Fill the molds about 3/4 full; the batter will expand while it bakes. Bake according to the instructions listed for your chosen cake mix.

Allow the cake to fully cool before handling it. Using a serrated knife, carefully trim the rounded tops of your cake eggs to create a flat surface and then remove the cake from the molds.

Roll the fondant out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Carefully drape the fondant over the cake egg and press down along the edges.

Using a knife, carefully trim around the edge of the cake egg and remove the excess fondant. Smooth the edges with your fingers, and tuck any extra fondant underneath the egg. Repeat these steps until you’ve covered all of the cake eggs with fondant.

To watercolor your eggs, squeeze a small amount of the gel food coloring into a bowl. Wet the sea sponge and dab it into the gel food coloring, then carefully dab the sponge onto the fondant.

Have fun with it! Use as many or as few colors as you’d like. We went with a warm, springtime palette.

The vanilla extract serves a dual purpose. If the colors are too concentrated for your taste, dip your paintbrush in the extract and ‘wash’ the fondant to dilute the food coloring and create a true watercolor effect. The extract also helps the gold leaf stick onto your eggs. Use the back end of the paintbrush to grab a bit of gold foil and carefully set it onto the eggs.

Allow your eggs to dry completely before handling.

And you’re all done! Place these eggs inside of mini baskets with a few extra sweet treats to complete the nest look. These are the perfect ending to any Easter brunch.

Just make sure your guests know they’re okay to eat ;).

What other Easter DIYs are you working on? Show us your project by tagging us on Instagram and using the hashtag #iamcreative! Check out our list of Colorful Easter Desserts for more ideas.

32 Irresistible Strawberry Desserts We Can’t Stop Eating

Once summer rolls around, strawberries take center stage, which means strawberry desserts are the highlight of the season. From classics like strawberry shortcake to innovative creations like strawberry s’mores, these 32 strawberry desserts push the boundaries of that fruity, juicy flavor we all know and love. Get ready to indulge!

Strawberry Freakshakes

Think of this recipe as your traditional strawberry milkshake, but leveled-up beyond compare. The "freak" label for these decadent shakes is entirely accurate, as they get loaded with sugar, ice cream, donuts, whipped cream, and of course, rainbow sprinkles. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Donuts

These strawberry donuts earn a healthy (or well, healthier) edge by using whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and Greek yogurt. Don't worry though – they're still as sweet as ever, and they'll be super tasty alongside some coffee for a nice morning treat! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Tart

This tart looks impressive, but it's not all that hard to execute. Get your hands on just 5 ingredients – store-bought pastry dough and custard help expedite the process – and you'll be well on your way to strawberry, dessert-y goodness. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Chia Oatmeal Cookies

Turns out, you can eat cookies for breakfast! These strawberry-filled lil' bites serve as a quick power-up with fruit, oats, and chia seeds. You can even pack a few in your lunchbox for a healthy mid-day snack sesh. (via Brit + Co)

Boozy Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

These skewered strawberry desserts would make a fun Friday night activity to share with your boo! Simply soak some fresh berries in pink champagne overnight, then assemble them onto skewers before dipping them right into a dark chocolate bath and garnishing with more chocolate and crushed pistachios! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Lemon Cookies

Strawberries and lemons are a match made in flavor heaven, and these easy cookies (they only take 20 minutes) deliver a strawberry lemonade-type taste. Summer, here we come! (via The Edgy Veg)

Chocolate Strawberry Cake

We are salivating for this chocolatey cake! The cakey layers are quite simple to make, then you'll use fresh strawberries for the mid-layer and as a beautiful garnish. Don't you dare forget to add that creamy chocolate ganache! (via Give Recipes)

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake is an absolute classic! This recipe makes a few simple swaps (like whole wheat flour instead of regular, and maple syrup instead of white sugar) to make each and every bite a tad bit lighter than your traditional take. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Dark Chocolate Strawberry S'mores

You haven't lived until you've tried putting fresh strawberries on your s'mores. Just look at that gooey goodness! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Peanut Butter Cake with Strawberry Frosting

Once you learn how to make this sweet strawberry frosting, you'll wanna put it on everything you make, from cupcakes to cookies. And yes, even this nutty peanut butter cake! Pile it on real high. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

The crunchy coating on these strawberry shortcake-inspired ice cream bars is exactly why you need to make them this summer. It's comprised of brown Rice Krispie pieces and freeze-dried strawberries to add some variety in texture, and wow, is it delicious! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb makes an excellent partner to strawberries. Case in point: this no-frills, uber-fresh pie with an impressive lattice crust! (via Completely Delicious)

Strawberry Cocoa

This sip is like if you combined a strawberry shake and hot chocolate into one. It's so dreamy! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Chocolate Strawberry Hi-Hat Cupcakes

That cross-section, though! These rich chocolate cupcakes are piled high with strawberry Swiss meringue buttercream icing. Once they're iced, they're dipped in even more chocolate to form a satisfying outer shell. (via Butternut Bakery)

Strawberry Fudge with Marshmallow Fluff

These strawberry fudge bites are just perfect for a little Valentine's Day dessert. This recipe surely doesn't shy away from sugar! (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Matcha Madeleines

Matcha, chocolate, and strawberries?! We are totally swooning over these tiny strawberry desserts. While the madeleine cookies are soft and airy, the dark chocolate layer on the outside provides a nice crunch, contrasting the textures and flavors in each bite. (via The Original Dish)

Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies

Strawberry cake mix makes these strawberry desserts so much quicker, but they don't skimp on flavor at all. If you want to take things up a notch, try adding some fresh strawberries on top! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats

These Rice Krispie treats would make our child selves go crazy. You'll only need four ingredients to make 'em: freeze-dried strawberries, cereal, marshmallows, and butter, so they're a good dessert to make if you don't have a lot of ingredients on-hand and don't feel up to baking! (via The Endless Meal)

Chocolate Strawberry Mock-tini

This non-alcoholic, dairy free martini is decadence at its finest. You'll create your very own chocolate coconut simple syrup before concocting a mix of cashew milk, strawberries, and swirls of melted chocolate. (via Chef Bai)

Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Strawberry Jam

We all need more brownie recipes in our life, right? These rich bars are instantly elevated by a homemade strawberry jam that you'll likely have leftovers of to put on toasts, sandwiches, and more strawberry desserts! (via Two Spoons)

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast

Although this recipe's a bit more breakfast-y, it still qualifies as dessert in our minds because it's loaded to the brim with a super-sweet cream cheese filling and sweetened strawberries worthy of the dessert table. Plus, there's plenty of syrup to go around! (via Live Eat Learn)

Homemade Strawberry Pop Tarts

These strawberry desserts are snack-worthy in the morning, afternoon, and as a late night snack, of course! If you thought store-bought Pop Tarts were good, just wait 'til you make them for yourself with fresh strawberries. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Strawberry Cheesecake Vatrushka Buns

The strawberry cheesecake filling stuffed into these airy buns is to die for! Prep a batch for a fun cafe-themed party, or keep the half-dozen all to yourself for morningtime bliss. (via Vikalinka)

Strawberry Banana Bread

Banana bread is a total lifesaver when it comes to using those overripe bananas sitting out on your counter, and it gets even better once strawberries enter the mix! This recipe is moist, sweet, and perfect as a little treat. (via Averie Cooks)

Vegan Strawberry Cupcakes

Looking for vegan strawberry desserts? Your search is over with these vegan strawberry cupcakes covered in vegan whipped cream. Add some more fresh berries for full effect! (via Earthly Provisions)

Strawberry Scones

Dare to make your local coffee shop jealous with these homemade scones using strawberries. Once you're done baking them, you'll cover each one with a delicious strawberry cream cheese frosting for maximum flavor. (via Most Hungry)

Strawberry Rhubarb Galette

Sweet galette recipes are our weakness. They're so sweet and shareable, plus this one in particular is a good way to start using all your farmer's market produce! (via Amanda Wilens)

2-Ingredient Strawberry Banana Ice Cream

Simply blend some frozen strawberries and bananas together, and you've got a sweet treat that can fulfill your cravings for creamy ice cream! For even more dessert vibes, top this recipe with sprinkles, Oreos, or chocolate syrup, Or all three. We'd do it, too. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Strawberry Chocolate Mint Smoothies

The addition of mint leaves takes this sweet sipper to a whole new level. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Strawberry Jelly No-Bake Cheesecake

Have you ever seen a cheesecake so beautiful?! Plus, this one requires zero baking, making it the perfect pick for hot summers. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Strawberry Macarons

If you're up to the challenge, making macarons yourself can be so rewarding. Each of these little sweet sandwiches is filled with strawberry jam and a cheesecake-inspired icing. (via Barley & Sage)

Vegan Fruity Pebble Cheesecake

Colorful, fruity, and sweet? Say no more. This Fruity Pebbles cheesecake just earned the top spot on our "to-bake" list!(via No Eggs or Ham)

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Lead image via The Endless Meal.

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The Most-Anticipated Tribeca Film Festival Movies Coming Next Month

The Tribeca Film Festival never misses. It's served as the launching pad for premieres like Taylor Swift's All Too Well: The Short Film, the first season ofThe Bear, and Vanessa Hudgens' Downtown Owl (you can watch our red carpet coverage here!), and this year is going to be just as hot. Gen Z and Gen X'ers alike will want to tune in this year thanks to these incredible casts. Keep reading for everything you need to know.

Winter Spring Summer or Fall starring Jenna Ortega and Percy Hynes White

Image via Tribeca Film Festival

Wednesday stars Jenna Ortega and Percy Hynes White team up again on Winter Spring Summer or Fall. The teen romance movie sees them in high school once again — Jenna as a Harvard-bound genius and Percy as a casual, laid-back guy. When their characters meet their final year of high school, their newfound relationship changes everything. I'm a sucker for an opposites-attract romance!

Winter Spring Summer or Fall stars Jenna Ortega, Percy Hynes-White, Marisol Nichols, Adam Rodriguez, Elias Kacavas, and Evangeline Barrosse.

The Debutantes starring Dedra Robbins, Amelia Boles, and Teylar Bradley

Image via Tribeca Film Festival

This documentary follows the first group of Black debutantes in Canton, Ohio in ten years. In addition to providing an in-depth look at the community and the young women themselves, this movie dives into the controversial past of the ball, as well as a hopeful future.

The Debutantes stars Dedra Robbins, Amelia Boles, and Teylar Bradley.

​BRATS, directed by Andrew McCarthy, with Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Rob Lowe, Molly Ringwald, and Lea Thompson

Image via Tribeca Film Festival

If you spent your tween years obsessed with Pretty in Pink, St. Elmo's Fire, and The Breakfast Club, then this is the movie for you. Andrew McCarthy reconnects with the rest of the iconic Brat Pack from the 80s, including Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Molly Ringwald, and Emilio Estevez — and explores how the title affected their lives. I might have actually screamed when I found out about this Tribeca Film Festival premiere, and it is now my most-anticipated movie!

BRATS stars Andrew McCarthy, Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy, Demi Moore, Rob Lowe, Lea Thompson, and Jon Cryer.

​Daddio starring Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn

Image via Tribeca Film Festival

Dakota Johnson is one actress I can watch time and time again, and after starting the year off with Madame Webb, she's returning to New York City for Daddio. This new movie follows a young woman, who jumps into a cab at JFK airport. What begins as a regular taxi ride turns into an unforgettable journey.

Daddio stars Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn.

​Firebrand starring Alicia Vikander and Jude Law

Image via Tribeca Film Festival

This Tribeca Film Festival movie takes place in 1500s England, during the Tudor era. Katherine Parr fights to stay alive as her marriage to King Henry VIII gets more dangerous everyday, and court politics and paranoia await her at every turn. You've never seen The Holiday's Jude Law quite like this, and history lovers (and anyone who's a fan of SIX on Broadway) will be all over this movie.

Firebrand stars Alicia Vikander, Jude Law, Eddie Marsan, Sam Riley, Erin Doherty, and Simon Russell Beale.

​Jazzy with Lily Gladstone

Image via Tribeca Film Festival

On the heels of her Oscar-nominated role in Killers of the Flower Moon, Lily Gladstone stars in Jazzy. Filmmaker Morrisa Maltz explores the ins and outs of growing up in South Dakota, and all the highs and lows that come with childhood friendship.

Jazzy stars Jasmine Bearkiller Shangreaux, Syriah Foohead Means, Richard Ray Whitman, Raymond Lee, and Lily Gladstone.

​Sacramento starring Michael Cera, Kristen Stewart, and Maya Erskine

Image via Tribeca Film Festival

BFF comedies are back thanks to Sky High's Michael Angarano! Glenn and his partner are expecting their first child, but when his friend Ricky shows up out of nowhere, Glenn's organized life takes a turn for the chaotic. Suddenly he finds himself on a roadtrip from LA to Sacramento where there are plenty of memories to be made.

Sacramento stars Michael Cera, Kristen Stewart, Michael Angarano, and Maya Erskine.

​Satisfied with Renée Elise Goldsberry

Image via Tribeca Film Festival

Hamilton fans rejoice! If you've had "Satisfied" stuck in your head on repeat since 2016, then this is definitely the doc for you. The movie provides an intimate view of what it looks like to balance family and career — especially when that career becomes a viral pop culture sensation.

Satisfied stars Renée Elise Goldsberry, Alexis Johnson, Benjamin Johnson, Brielle Johnson, Ariana DeBose, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Which Tribeca Film Festival 2024 movie are you most excited for? I have not been able to stop talking about BRATS, and I don't see that changing anytime soon. Check out the The Most-Anticipated Summer Movies for more!

Lead image via Tribeca Film Festival.

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Creative DIY Birthday Card Ideas Your Friends Will Love

As cute and clever as store-bought greeting cards are, there's something incredibly thoughtful that can be felt in a homemade birthday card from a friend or loved one. Not only does the act of creating DIY birthday cardsgive you the chance to slow down from the business of life and reflect on what you cherish most about the people you're celebrating, but the one-of-a-kind touch will be super memorable for your recipients as well.

Even if you're not the craftiest person, don't fret, because we've put together a straightforward guide on how to craft your own DIY birthday card for your besties and S.O.'s. Step into the world of DIY magic as we embark on a quest to create birthday cards that will leave your recipients in awe. From unexpected pop-up surprises to mind-bending interactive features, discover fresh ways to make birthday cards burst with fun and excitement. Prepare to unleash your inner artist as we dive into all the tips to help you craft unique and captivating birthday cards. And keep reading for some thoughtful text ideas to ensure that your birthday wishes are just as fun as the card design they're on.

Step 1: Gather Your DIY Birthday Card Supplies

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Before embarking on your DIY birthday card adventure, gathering all the necessary supplies is essential. A well-prepared crafter is a confident crafter! So, let's make sure you have everything you need to bring your imaginative card ideas to life.

  1. Start with colored cardstock or paper as the foundation of your cards. Choose a variety of vibrant hues to suit different themes and moods. Scissors are your trusty sidekick, enabling you to precisely cut out shapes, create borders, and trim your cardstock.
  2. Grab glue or adhesive tape to hold everything together securely. Opt for a glue stick for a mess-free experience or double-sided tape for a clean and seamless finish.
  3. Round up all the art supplies you have, from markers and colored pencils, or pens. These magical tools will be your gateway to adding personalized messages, whimsical doodles, and vibrant colors to your DIY creations.
  4. Stock up on a dazzling array of embellishments for an added dose of flair and personality. Let your creativity soar as you explore the boundless possibilities of stickers, sequins, ribbons, twines, buttons, beads, and more. Watch your creations come alive with vibrant colors, textures, and eye-catching details. With these delightful elements at your fingertips, there's no limit to the magic your birthday cards can be infused with.

Step 2: Choose Your Card Design

Image via George Dolgikh/Pexels

The card design will function as the first impression that sets the tone for the entire experience. A well-designed card can evoke emotions ranging from joy and excitement to nostalgia and warmth, leaving friends and family in awe of the thoughtful gesture.

Handmade Watercolor Design:

Express your artistic side by creating a handmade watercolor masterpiece for a genuinely one-of-a-kind birthday card. Start with a blank cardstock or watercolor paper as the base, and let your creativity flow. Use watercolors to paint a vibrant and personalized design, such as flowers, balloons, or a recipient's favorite hobby or color palette. Add a heartfelt birthday message inside to complete the card.

Pop-Up Surprise:

Add an element of surprise and delight to your card with a pop-up feature. Cut out a simple pop-up mechanism using cardstock or colored paper and attach it to the inside of the card. Then, unleash your creativity by designing and cutting out fun shapes, such as cakes, candles, or balloons, and attach them to the pop-up mechanism. When the card is opened, the surprise element will make the birthday celebration of your loved one even more memorable.

Quilled Creations:

Quilling is a paper art technique that involves rolling and shaping thin paper strips to create intricate designs. Use quilling techniques to create beautiful and delicate patterns, flowers, or even personalized messages on your birthday cards. Experiment with different colors and shapes to bring your design to life and make it truly unique. The recipient will appreciate the time and effort put into crafting such an elegant and artistic card.

Hand-Stitched Greeting:

Consider incorporating those skills into your DIY card if you enjoy sewing or embroidery. Use a needle and thread to create hand-stitched designs or patterns on fabric or cardstock. You can stitch the recipient's name, a birthday message, or even cute motifs like balloons or cupcakes. The texture and charm of a hand-stitched card will make it a cherished keepsake.

Interactive Slider Card:

Create an interactive slider card to take your birthday card to the next level. Use cardstock to make a slider mechanism that reveals a hidden message or image as it is pulled. Write a heartfelt message or attach a memorable photo that slides out when the recipient pulls the tab. This interactive element adds a playful touch to your card and makes it truly engaging.

Step 3: Write A Clever Message

Image via June/Pexels

Elevate your birthday card by personalizing it with a heartfelt note to enrich the receiver's experience. Share warm wishes, inside jokes, or memories that make the card even more special and meaningful. Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas for what to write inside your DIY birthday card!
  1. "Happy birthday, queen of the hashtags! May your day be as fabulous as your Instagram feed."
  2. "You're the avocado to my toast, the squad to my goals. Happy birthday, superstar!"
  3. "It's your birthday, so let's turn up the 'Lit' level and celebrate like it's 1999... or 2023!"
  4. "Birthdays are nature's way of telling us to eat more cake. Enjoy your special day!"
  5. "May your birthday be filled with good vibes and a bottomless brunch. Cheers to another fabulous year!"
  6. "Sending you birthday wishes with all the heart emojis. You deserve all the love and happiness today and always."
  7. "Happy birthday to my favorite extremely online friend. May your Wi-Fi always be strong and your battery never die."
  8. "Time to celebrate another trip around the sun. Let's make this year even more epic than the last!"
  9. "You're not getting older, you're leveling up! Happy birthday, gamer!"
  10. "Happy birthday, trendsetter! May your day be filled with selfie-worthy moments and viral-worthy adventures."

Step 4: Add The Perfect Finishing Touch

Brit + Co

As a bonus, consider creating a DIY envelope to complete the package. Choose decorative paper or repurpose materials like magazine pages or fabric scraps to craft a unique envelope that adds creativity and thoughtfulness to your handmade card. Personalize it by adding hand-drawn designs, stamps, or calligraphy for an extra special touch.

So, there you have it! DIY birthday cards offer endless possibilities for fun, creativity, and the chance to unleash your imagination. With just a few simple steps, you can create customized and sincere cards that will bring joy to your loved ones on their special day. Remember, the beauty of DIY is that there are no limits or rules. Let your creativity run wild, experiment with different techniques, colors, and textures, and, most importantly, have fun. Happy crafting!

For more crafty ideas, check out all of our DIY ideas on Brit + Co.

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"Vanderpump Rules" Paused Filming For Season 12 — I Think It's Because Ariana's Leaving

We're still deep in Vanderpump Rulesseason 11, but any good fans know the news never stops with this spicy crew. Whether their breaking stories about Scandoval or scorching friendships and starting feuds, there's just always something to talk about. The latest goss may not be what you're thinking though — according to Page Six(and Andy Cohen himself), production is fully paused on anything related to season 12. They have their alleged reasons for halting, but here's what I think is really happening.

Why did producers pause "Vanderpump Rules" filming for season 12?

It's been a major talking point during this season and its interview cycles that cameras basically went right back up after the Scandoval news broke, and they never really went back down for a full break. According to both production and Andy Cohen himself, Page Sixreported that they ultimately decided to press pause on anything season 12-related because wanted the cast to have a break after the almost nonstop Scandoval-fueled filming last year.

Will Ariana Madix return to "Vanderpump Rules" season 12?

Image via Bravo

I honestly don't think Ariana Madix plans to return to the Vanderpump Rules cast, and here's why:

  1. She's booked and busy. Between landing a hosting gig on Love Island, wrapping up a broadway show, scoring shoe deals, writing books, and beyond...it just makes sense that maybe Ariana's outgrown this world! She started on VPRwhen she was 28 years old — a full decade later, she's just a different person with likely different goals, especially after Scandoval.
  2. There was some allegedly big friendship-altering drama at the reunion. Since they filmed, there are plenty of rumors about who's still friends and why, but one thing is for certain: nobody's talking. And while obody will spill the beans on what was said yet, even Andy Cohen confirmed the reunion was "intense." My guess is that Ariana revealed to the cast that season 11 was her last, and that it sent everyone — especially Lala Kent and Scheana Shay — into a spiral. After all, this show is everyone's job at the end of the day, and Ariana leaving could potentially impact that. Still, like I said, she's likely outgrown the entire situation.
  3. Something About Her finally opening could mean their own show. Katie Maloney and Ariana announced onWatch What Happens Live!that their long-awaited sandwich shop is set to open on May 22. It's safe to say that the girls are EAGER to eat at this shop, with Tiktoks and Tweets galore asking about the opening for a while now...so why wouldn't Katie and Ariana wanna capitalize on that even more with their own show? It's obviously all speculation, but I could definitely see this being a successful, actually interesting VPR spinoff...I'm looking at you, The Valley.
Considering all this, my guess would be that production's working hard to make things work with Ariana, or find a way to break the news easy to the rest of the cast.

Who's returning for "Vanderpump Rules" season 12?

Image via Bravo

There aren't any formal announcements of returning Vanderpump Rules cast members — especially because the current season is still on air. However, one could safely assume almost everyone would choose to return, except for Ariana and maybe Katie (because have you ever seen someone more sick of every single man's BS on one show before?!). But, I'm not sure if we're even gonna get another season of this show, TBH. Why?

  • Nobody works at Sur anymore, and it just feels like we've moved so far past the original premise (and exciting drama) of the show.
  • Lisa Vanderpump (you know, THE Vanderpump in Vanderpump Rules) is hardly on anymore, and when she is, she's saying something that's just...off. Plus, she's got the Villa to run — they're apparently casting for another season as we speak.
  • Everyone's kinda phased out of this era — they're all older, have kids, split up, etc. There's just not that much keeping them all together in this way. Some could easily phase into the travesty that's The Valley, but ultimately VPR is just maybe past it's prime.

When will "Vanderpump Rules" season 12 air?

Image via Bravo

I would have guessed we'd get the next season by mid-winter 2025 given the turnaround time of the most recent season of Vanderpump Rules, but now I'm not sure. If I had to guess, I think we could get something by fall 2025, but who knows how long this hiatus can last. Or — like I said before — if the show even returns.

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Header image via Bravo

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"Bridgerton" Brought The Cottagecore Aesthetic Back — And It's Better Than Ever

Dearest gentle reader, if it were up to Lady Whistledown, the finest trend of the season would absolutely be the return of the cottagecore aesthetic. Bring on the floral dresses, ruching, and tulle because thanks to Bridgerton, we're glady welcoming cottagecore back into our current style rotation (if it ever left). Cottagecore has come and gone with the likes of period drama movies and TV shows á la Pride and Prejudice, Downton Abbey, and so many more. So whether you're frolicking in the English countryside, attending balls with Kings and Queens, or just simply catching up on Bridgerton season 3 from the comfort of your couch, we've got all the best dresses for the occasion that will have you looking like THE diamond of the season.

What is cottagecore?

Photo via House of CB

Cottagecore is an aesthetic or style that is inspired by "cottage living" — imagine the English countryside in the early 1900's. The clothing style is very reminiscent of a Jane Austen-inspired era with lots of feminine and flowy silhouettes. You'll notice the styles having corsets, ruffles, florals, and bows, so just think very effortlessly girly!

What are the best brands to shop for cottagecore aesthetic?

Photo via House of CB

The brands that immediately come to mind and encapsulate the "frolicking-in-the-english-countryside-while-waiting-for-your-star-crossed-lover" vibe are brands like Love Shack Fancy, House of CB, and Doen. I've personally shopped all of these and can attest that they are idyllic, gorgeous, and will have you feeling like the lead of a Bridgerton season in no time.

What should I watch to get inspired by the cottagecore aesthetic?

Photo via Netflix

Period dramas are perfect to get into this vibe, and some shows and films that I love to watch are Little Women, Downton Abbey, Pride and Prejudice, Bridgerton(obvi), and anything from the Jane Austen-era! When you watch all of these shows, you'll get so much inspiration from the way they dress and styles they're wearing. I also love scrolling Pinterest to find inpso for what to wear in order to achieve this aesthetic!

Shop Cottagecore Aesthetic Staples Here!

LoveShackFancy Floral Dress

LoveShackFancy is a brand that does cottage-core SO well! They completely nail the ruffles, florals, and femininity that we're looking for in order to achieve the cottage-core look. This mini is adorable with the ruffles and short silhouette!

Melloday Smock Dress

Anything smock will definititely help you achieve cottage-core style and this smocked dress is such a cute one! I love the length and material of this one, as well as the strings on the sleeves! Such a fun detail!

Reformation Tagliatelle Linen Dress

How could you think of cottage-core and have your mind not go immediately towards the cool-girl brand of Reformation. They are the brand to shop at for any linen pieces to achieve your cottage-core style. Plus, you can never go wrong with a simple white dress! It's definitely a staple in every wardrobe.

House of CB Rafaella Dress

This dress just screams femininity and grace; exactly what we need for this Bridgerton-inpsired aesthetic! To be honest, this dress looks like it was taken right from a diamond of the season's wardrobe! Adding this to cart now!

Free People Feeling Bonita Smock Dress

Free People is a brand that does cottage core so well but in a more understated and casual way. Like this dress above, it exudes the cottage lifestyle but more casual than you may see on shows like Bridgerton or Downton Abbey. You'll definitely get so much wear out of this staple dress!

House of CB Emmelina Poplin Dress

I have this dress after trying it on in store and falling in looove with it immediately! It's stunning quality and tulle skirt will have you feeling like a princess! Just a note-- it runs quite small so make sure to adjust your sizing to a size bigger than normal!

Abercrombie Emerson Mini

This pattern just screams English countryside to me with the beautiful vintage colors and silhouette. I would definitely pick up this one to achieve the cottage-core style on a budget!

Charles Henry Bustier Maxi

Another affordable option to achieve the same look as the House of CB dress! It checks all the right boxes: floral, bustier, maxi, and so cute! We love this one!

Reformation Cherise Linen Dress

This dress is quintessential cottage-core, Bridgerton vibes to me! It looks so dainty and regal with it being a maxi and having the most adorable puff-sleeves and bow detailing. I say add a pair of white mary-jane flats and big white bow in your hair to top off the whole look!

All In Favor Midi Dress

At only $64, you're going to want to sprint to checkout on this dress that looks like it was taken right from my Pinterest board! I love how simple it is and the blue color is perfectly on brand for our theme as well. Plus, I love a corset moment!

House of CB Petticoat Dress

Petticoat dress? Say no more, we have found the most perfect cottage-core dress ever, readers! This dress would have Lady Whistledown, herself, wanting to know where it's from!

Abercrombie Puff Sleeve Dress

Lastly, a puff sleeve dress from our favorite and affordable Abercrombie because you can truly never go wrong with anything linen or puff-sleeved. I love this one with mary-janes like above or even with a pair of white pumps to dress it up!

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Lead image via Netflix.

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