15 Wedding String Lights for Your Big Day

There is just something about tiny, twinkling lights that exudes romance. So what better way to decorate for your wedding day? You can use them to spotlight the vows you worked so hard to write, or highlight your reception dinner to give it a delicate, backyard vibe. No expensive, OTT installation needed — just a few strings of white lights will give you all the enchantment you want. Plus, when your guests see the glow, they’ll know exactly where the party is at. These 15 string light decor ideas will make you start daydreaming of your own sparkling event. Let’s get lit!

1. Whimsical White: Just because your wedding isn’t full of glitzy glam vibes doesn’t mean that romantic string lights are a no-go. The flowy tulle and crisp white awning seen here are adorned with lights that perfectly complement the vintage vibe of this rustic reception. (via Julianne Brasher Photography / Junebug Weddings)

2. Backyard Beauty: If you’re kicking it outdoors for your reception, use strings of lights to illuminate the space (and keep the party rocking) as soon as the sun goes down. (via Ryan Flynn Photography)

3. Backlit Backdrop: Say your vows in front of hanging string lights to stand out in the most romantic way possible. (via Braedon Flynn / Green Wedding Shoes)

4. Star Light: Dancing is *so* much better when it’s under the stars. You can create your own constellations indoors with large-bulbed string lights draped on every wall.

5. Light Chandelier: This ceiling sparkle is the best way to have a super glam chandelier over your reception without breaking the bank. Hanging it in the middle of the room will surely make it the star of your decor. (via Kerry Bartlett / Style Me Pretty)

6. Industrial Candlelight: Exposed brick is a gorgeous setting for a ceremony, but it’s made a serious dream with candlelight and large-bulbed string lights draped loosely. (via iZO Photography / Polka Dot Bride)

7. Tree Lights: Let Mother Nature lend a hand by securing bunches of string lights to tree branches. Your outdoor reception will radiate under these dreamy drops of light. (via Vasia Photography / Style Me Pretty)

8. Boho Backdrop: Space your string lights farther apart to achieve a boho backdrop that pops off the wall. (via Stacy Paul Photography / Boho Weddings)

9. Dinner Delight: Light up your community dining table with strategically placed lights to give it a more intimate feel. (via Love Is a Big Deal / Green Wedding Shoes)

10. Enchanting Lights: There is something endlessly delightful about string lights at an outdoor wedding. They give off a fairy-tale vibe that couldn’t be more apropos for your happily ever after. (via Anna Kim Photography / Junebug Weddings)

11. Festive Lights Rose Gold Lantern Fairy Lights ($10): Warm up your reception space with these geometric rose gold lights that will bring a touch of industrial design to your modern wedding decor. The twinkling statement lights would also be an adorable way to highlight your sweetheart table.

12. Paradise Beach Wedding: Sometimes you have to let the ocean scenery and beautiful sunsets speak for themselves with this less-is-more approach. Channel this couple’s look by keeping things fresh, modern, and relaxed by using string lights as the major decor attraction. (via Tec Petaja / Town and Country)

13. Daylight: No harsh lighting here. Let these tiny lights glow even during your daytime nuptials for some soft, romantic feels that can’t be matched — except by your love, obvi. (via Sarah Kate / Style Me Pretty)

14. Light Up: Is it us, or is this couple insanely radiant in this light? The straight and plentiful string lights allow them to glow brightly as they celebrate the best day of their life.

15. Crisscross Dream: Zigzagged string lights are perfect atop a more casual fête, but can easily be amped up to suit any dreamy affair. (via Hello Miss Lovely / Ruffled)

Follow us on Pinterestfor more gorgeous ideas for your wedding reception.

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

Wedding season is back, and busier than ever. If you're feeling like you spend every other summer weekend in attendance, only to spend the few weekends in between recovering — and shopping — for your next event, you're certainly not alone.

While it's wonderful to watch our loved ones wed, we all know how quickly the celebrations can add up, and we're here to remind you there's absolutely no shame in repeating a wedding guest dress a few times, or all season long! In fact, you'll find floral dresses can go a long way, as their multi-colored prints allow them to be styled with different accessories for a new look each time.

If you're juggling several different wedding themes in one season, say, beach unions and backyard weddings, try to invest in one good floral print that can adapt across locales, or scoop up a few extra-affordable picks and assign one to each setting!

Ahead, our favorite floral wedding guest dresses to help you get through the wedding season and all your formal festivities this summer.

Free People Alma Midi Dress

This subtle light pink midi is adorned with feminine florals and delicate ruffles that feel like spring and summer's BFF. The asymmetrical hem lends this dress a whimsical vibe, which will earn you compliments all season long. Pair with some cute heels and your go-to bag to complete the look! 

Available in sizes XS-XL for $168.​

Hutch Braylan One-Shoulder Maxi Dress

This maxi may have just one shoulder strap, but we promise it's secure as ever. Hugging your form in the most flattering way, the bust on this piece is elastic and very flexible, so it moves when you do. The lush green floral details pay homage to the seasons best blooms.

Available in sizes XXS-L for $319.

AFRM Shea Floral A-Line Maxi Dress

This illustrative maxi is the moment! Adorned with everything from flowers to butterflies, this wedding guest dress is for the young at heart. The shape is simple and flowy, starting out with a straight neckline and falling to an a-line skirt. It's also lined for added comfort!

Available in sizes XS-XL for $88.

Bardot Felicia Mesh Floral Midi Dress

For a more form-fitting floral option, this pink + red number will do the trick. It's quite stretchy, so you can sit, stand, and dance in total comfort. The ruching running along the sides gives your shape even more flattering definition for all the pics you'll be taking during the wedding.

Available in sizes 2-12 for $119.

Shona Joy Karla Paneled Maxi Dress

This paneled dress falls all the way to the floor in an elegant manner. It's covered in royal blue, white, and rustic brown florals for a very graphic feel. While the skirt is more flowy, the bust on this dress fits snugly, like a corset. It comes complete with a matching belt to make the 'fit more formal!

Available in sizes 2-12 for $420.

Abercrombie & Fitch Ruffle Strap High-Low Maxi Dress

We are in love with this ruffle-y wedding guest dress! Part of Abercrombie & Fitch's new wedding collection, this high-low silhouette is dotted with classic pink florals. The ruching follows the bodice as well as the straps to create a chic shape. The breezy printed chiffon material is lined on the inside with a solid polyester for total coverage.

Available in petite, regular, and tall sizes XXS-XXL for $130.

Steve Madden Adalina Floral Ruffle Maxi Dress

On the delicate side, we can't stop gawking over this femme chiffon frock. It's an off-white, more cream-colored fabric for staying cool in the spring + summer sun. The bold ruffles that cross in the front make sure your look doesn't go unnoticed. While most floral wedding guest dresses are covered in the blooms, this one is more subdued.

Available in sizes XS-XL for $99.

Conditions Apply Chloe Strapless Maxi Dress

We actually adoreblack wedding guest dresses, and this one is still floral! You can make it strapless or opt for the included straps to feel more secure. The big graphic blooms will photograph beautifully, too. Only plan on wearing it to a wedding once? This dress doubles amazingly for any beachy vacations you've got on the cal!

Available in sizes XXS-XL and plus sizes 1X-3X for $148.

Petal & Pup Senorita Floral Print Sleeveless Maxi Dress

With a high neck and a high-cut leg slit, this maxi dress is def ready for the wedding after party! The side cutouts transition to an adorable open back design that feels sexy ​and ​breathable. This pick secures in the back with a no-fuss string tie and just looks sooo fun!

Available in sizes 4-10 for $84.​

The A&F Camille Midi Dress

Made of smooth satin-y fabric, this midi follows your figure with some flattering seams that run down the whole dress. The upper part is definitely more fitted, but allows for some movement with an elastic backing. The thin spaghetti straps are totally adjustable, too, so you can find the fit that suits you!

Available in sizes XXS-XXL.

ASTR The Label Floral Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

This floral wedding guest dress is for the color lovers. It's smattered in flowers and leaves of all kinds that work wardrobe magic whenever you wear it! The puffed sleeves definitely speak to the romantic vibe of any wedding you're attending, and the neckline comes together beautifully with a fun front tie. This pick is finished off with a high-cut leg slit for added breeziness!

Available in sizes XS-XL for $99.

A New Day Women's Crepe Midi Slip Dress

This easy-to-wear slip dress is totally comfy! Crafted out of a lightweight crepe fabric, you can feel confident at any temperature. The v-neck and leg slit create a flattering balance in the silhouette, plus the pink floral pattern is the season's ultimate match! Adjust the straps with traditional closures to find your perfect fit.

Available in sizes XS-4X for $25.

Montce Petal Floral Maxi Dress

The bustier-like top on this floral maxi is everything to us! The ruched bra cups will draw attention to your ensemble and make you feel super fly. This dress secures in the back with a hook closure, and flaunts an open back for some light flirty vibes.

Available in sizes XS-XL for $218.

Motel Vilnia Floral Midi Dress

This versatile pick goes the less-traditional route in the way of florals. Its flower motifs are dotted separately all across the fabric, and match the neckline's velvet lining perfectly! We like that this dress is limited in its color palette to make matching with shoes and outerwear easy as can be. The bow in front of the chest seals the deal!

Available in sizes XS-XXL for $85.

Which floral wedding guest dress are you excited to rock this year? Follow us on Pinterest for more outfit inspiration!

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

Images via brands.

This post has been updated from a previous version with reporting by Meredith Holser.

I can't be the only one who dreads deal with TSA during security checkpoints, so it's important for me to find small rolling suitcases that make traveling 10x easier. I can't tell you how many times my items have been haphazardly ransacked during 'random' security checks only for me to curse my packing skills — ugh!

There's one bright side to my dilemma though: small rolling suitcases that have study exteriors and well-proportioned interiors. This is the key to making sure my travel essentials stay in one place. Tired of tripping over your suitcase because of its unstable wheels or fearing that you still won't do everything TSA agents ask? I've got 8 chic small rolling suitcases that'll help you navigate the airport without breaking a sweat in no time!

Shop Small Rolling Suitcases Here!

Herschel Heritage Hardshell Carryon Luggage (Ivy Green Topography)

One of the most important features of small rolling suitcases is their exterior. Since you'll likely be sprinting through the airport or jogging down escalators if they're not busy, you need something that can withstand being dragged. Herschel is known for creating luggage that's travel-tested

This carryon luggage is made with 70% recycled polycarbonate and it has silent wheels. It's like your travel companion that truly understands you have places to be and doesn't complain as you're navigating your busy airport.

CALPAK Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage (Rose Gold)

Here's your sign to get a rose gold rolling suitcase that can serve as your carryon item. It has 360-degree spinner wheels that'll work with you and not against you (IYKYK), plus the internal pockets make it easier for you to pack efficiently. You may want to check with the attendants on your flight, but this suitcase is designed to fit under your seat so you don't have to fight with an inconsiderate person for a space in the overhead storage bin.

Monos Terracotta Carryon

Sometimes you just want something cute and floral like this limited edition rolling suitcase. It's water-resistant and has an internal lining that's made from 100% recycled polyester! The internal features I like are the buckle straps that makes sure your clothes won't slide all over the place and the removable compression pad with zippered pockets to store flat items.

BÉIS The Carry On Roller (Atlas Pink)

We've all had experience with the dreaded TSA line that makes us question our sanity and age. But, BÉIS wants to eliminate your stress with their pink carry on rolling suitcase. It also have 360-degree wheels that'll happily go wherever you do and the interior? Well, let's just say you'll be able to find what you need when it's time to place everything on the conveyor belt.

Take that TSA agents!

OLOV 18” Underseat Carry-On Small Suitcase (Blue)

Embarking on a few quick getaways this summer and don't want to be weighed down by heavy luggage? You'll need to consider small rolling suitcases that are sturdy, yet lightweight. OLOV'S under seat carryon features an interior buckle to keep your items secured and allows you to pack the basics.

It also has a three digit combination lock in case someone decides to press their luck if you happen to fall asleep during your flight.

Vera Bradley Small Spinner Luggage (Fresh-Cut Floral Green)

In need of a portable rolling suitcase that can hold your clothes and serve as a charging dock for your phone? Vera Bradley already read your mind and has just the thing for you. The interior has two zippered sides that allow you to separate your necessities from each other based on function (clothes on one side and sandals on the other).

This spinner luggage also has an integrated lock that makes your time in TSA go a little smoother. If it's not obvious, we've had some rather unpleasant experiences with agents mishandling our items 😖.

Bric’s By Ulisse Carry-On Expandable Spinner with USB Port (MANGO)

If you thought we were done showing you chic and functional small rolling suitcases, you're almost right. Besides reminding us of the sunny weather we've been experiencing during spring, this carryon has a three stage telescopic handle that makes holding on a breeze!

From there, the interior has a pretty printed lining, full zipper section and mesh pocket, a stretchable strap to protect your items, and a shoe/laundry bag!

And just when you thought the features stop there, the carryon wants you to know it has a TSA-approved lock that comes with a universal key that only security can use to carefully inspect your items.

Sigh, we just love thoughtful designs!

BKYLN Tees Mint Gardenia Carry On Suitcase

Doesn't this cute mint green and floral suitcase seem like it was made to store all your vacation outfits? Designed in none other than Brooklyn, NY, this beauty is available in three sizes and is as functional as it's chic. It also has spinner wheels that make traveling a breeze and will look good no matter how it's stored.

Follow our storefront for more travel inspo!

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

Lead image via Monos

Warmer weather calls for lighter, shorter, and comfier outfits. It's a feat to find a dress that hits all three of these marks, especially if you're attending a spring or summer wedding ceremony. As the temperatures rise, make sure you're well-prepared with an appropriate wedding guest dress style! We've got you covered with the short wedding guest dresses below, which go above and beyond to make you feel both comfortable and confident!

Free People Perfect Day Printed Dress

This short wedding guest dress leans casual with effortless puff sleeves and a swingy skirt, but it meets elegance worthy of wearing to a wedding ceremony from the open back detail. The bodice of this v-neck silhouette is thoughtfully ruched for a change in texture. All things considered, this is a super comfy style!

This $128 dress is top-rated Free People and comes in 4 other floral colorways including blue, cream, black, and multicolor. This brown + pink number is currently shoppable in sizes XS-XL.

City Chic Blakely Tie Neck Long Sleeve Minidress

The flounce-y, fluttery trim on this mini is sooo adorable, and perfect for a springtime wedding! The long sleeves are wispy and breathable, while the rest of the dress is lightly lined for added coverage. The elastic waistband is snug but not uncomfortable, plus this little number ties neatly up top with a chic neck tie that you can style a number of different ways.

This $99 plus-sized pick is available in this stunning blue-purple shade and sizes 14-24.

The A&F Giselle Pleated Mini Dress

This pleated number from Abercrombie & Fitch's brand-new wedding collection is serving a main character moment. The green color makes it one of the freshest short wedding guest dresses for springtime. The v-neck sihlouette is super flattering, yet secure for all of the day's moments.

You can also snag this dress in a cool blue hue and standard, petite, and tall sizes XXS-XL for $77 (on sale, was $110).

Farm Rio Black Colored Stripes Short Sleeve Mini Dress

Black wedding guest dresses are everything to us, TBH. This 100% linen one gets a colorful treatment around the trim lining the hem, the sleeves, and neckline to make your look stand out – it'll also photograph beautifully! This versatile piece will serve you past those spring ceremonies, too. The piece secures in the back with a discreet, durable zipper.

This $250 dress from Farm Rio is sustainably crafted, made with 50% of recycled materials. It's currently available in sizes XXS-L.

Zesica Satin Halter Neck Tie Waist Mini Dress

The elegant wrapped neckline on this satin dress not only provides you with some coverage up top, but it makes a style statement worth documenting. The wrap skirt is extra classy, boasting a bow tie that secures in front. This dress zips up and buttons in the back.

This $50 Amazon dress comes in 15 other colors, so you can shop for the shade that matches your next occasion the most. The fabric is 95% polyester and 5% spandex.

Old Navy Waist-Defined Shine Mini Dress

Pretty as a flower! This long-sleeved mini dress from Old Navy features some beautiful blooms that'll surely feel celebratory of the spring and summer seasons. It's a step-in fit, with elastic banding spanning across the waist and arm cuffs for more comfort. The body and skirt of this short wedding guest dress is lined well, and the outer layer has some shiny seams woven in for eye-catching factor!

Shop this dress on sale for just $16! This colorway is available in regular sizes XS-XXL and 4X, tall sizes XS and L, and petite sizes XS, S, XL, and XXL.

Saylor Joelene Dress

For a more fitted look, this ruched dress from Saylor is super flattering! The puffed sleeves and flutter detail on the bottom of the skirt will transform your shape and look undoubtedly elegant for attending a wedding. The colorful floral pattern that covers the entire piece is springtime's perfect pairing, so you can really wear it all season long.

This pick is made from 100% cotton and doesn't have any stretch to it. You can snag it for $264 in sizes XS-L now!

Abercrombie & Fitch Organza Tiered Strapless Mini Dress

Floral prints are sooo darling for spring and summer ceremonies, and this strapless frock keeps things flowy, no matter the season. The three-tiered design is lined underneath for added coverage.

You can shop this $90 dress in solid white, hot pink, or a light pink floral pattern in sizes XXS-XXL now.

BHLDN Leila Stretch Satin Deep-V Mini Dress

This simple mini exhibits a stunning plunging v-neck that points down to a beautifully ruched bustier, flattering the upper half of your bod easily. The bodice is fitted with a small elastic band that moves with you! If this hot pink color breaks the dress code, you can buy it in black or dark green.

This semi-stretchy number is $168 at Anthropologie and is sold in sizes XS-XL.

Free People For The Moment Mini

Everything about this low-key dress is wonderful for a wedding – the abundant (but still chic) coverage, the whimsical a-line skirt, and stylish puff sleeves. All of the details are made from 100% cotton, too, so you won't overheat in the spring + summer heat. The neckline follows a v-shape that'll match well with any hairstyle you go with, up or down.

This breezy $88 number also comes in 8 other colors to suit your next spring/summer wedding. This deep yellow hue is now available in sizes XS-L.

Maeve The Brynne 3-D Spaghetti-Strap Dress

She's an icon. She's a legend. And she is the moment! This short wedding guest dress makes a statement with bold floral graphics that wrap around the front and back. The embroidered sequins that make up the "petals" provide added texture and color that's easy to pull together with a pair of heels or cardigan. This sky blue-lavender dress secures in the back with a sizable zipper.

This $230 dress is perfect for wearing to weddings, spring parties, and picnics. Grab it in sizes 0-16 now!

All in Favor Square Neck Long Sleeve Textured Satin Minidress

This romantic mini dress has tiered elastic bands that accentuate your upper half beautifully. The stretchy sleeves can sit atop your shoulders, or hang down for a cold shoulder look! The stylish square neckline comes complete with an adorable tie in the front.

Available in this peachy champagne color, you'll fall in love with this number for every spring and summer happening. It's currently 40% off, costing just $35 instead of $59. It's sold in sizes S, M, and L.

Zesica Backless Tie Waist Silky Mini Dress

This easy-fitting mini dress is one of our fave short wedding guest dresses because it's comfy and totally cool girl-approved. The smooth, silky fabric (that claims is "not easy to wrinkle") makes every wear zero-fuss and the tie-back detail is undeniably on-trend. More than anything, this flirty frock is versatile, easily dressing up with heels and a sweater or flaunting a more casual look with sneakers and a denim jacket. It's up to you!

This $48 Amazon dress comes in 10 other colors so customizing your 'fit is fairly straightforward. It comes in sizes S-XL.

The A&F Giselle Pleated Mini Dress

This might just be one of the most perfect short wedding guest dresses we've even laid eyes on. Those pleats though! The upper is more form-fitting, flattering your figure with ease. The v-neck feels sultry, but it isn't overly revealing. This dress' straps are adjustable, and the piece zips up in the lower back for security. This lined mini is made from a 100% polyester blend that feels silky to the touch.

You can also get this $77 dress (was $110) in a gorgeous green color. It's sold in sizes XXS-XL and lengths varying from petite to tall now!

Gap Linen-Cotton Puff Sleeve Mini Shirtdress

This short wedding guest dress is classy AF! We adore the longline puff sleeves and button-up design. The tie-around waist definitely gives your figure some definition, too! The skirt hits just above the knee if you're shopping for something more modest. The linen-cotton material ensures easy, breezy comfort in each wear. This dress is unlined, so you might need a slip to wear underneath.

This peachy pick sells for $70 with Gap and also comes in 5 other colors! This springy color is now available in regular sizes XXS-XXL, tall sizes S-XXL, and petite sizes XS-L.

Ann Taylor Polka Dot Flounce Shift Dress

The robin's egg blue color of this polka-dotted shift dress was ​made​ for spring! The crew neck is perfectly appropriate for family-filled occasions (like weddings), plus the skirt falls above the knee for more coverage. The body of this number is lined, whereas the sleeves aren't – this difference really adds to the playful look! The sleeves fall to a wide, retro-inspired fit, and the midsection is fitted with a skinny, stylish tie belt. 

​This Ann Taylor dress is on sale right now for $104 (was $149) and is available in regular sizes 00-18 and petite sizes 00-16.

Free People Marina Mini

This dress is a great fit for any sort of event, but it'll be super cute for spring + summer weddings! This mini is business in the front and a total party in the back – the back half features a unique strappy back that ties into a bow! And though pleated, this look feels as effortless and breezy as can be.

The Marina Mini from Free People also comes in 15 other colorways to suit your personal style. It sells for $88 in sizes XS-XL1

Old Navy Fit & Flare Linen-Blend Mini Dress

Balanced between a snug fit and a flowy flare, this short wedding guest dress from Old Navy prioritizes comfort over anything. The scooped neckline is fairly basic, so it'll suit any body type. The straps adjust to the length of your liking without being too intrusive. Easily pair this pick with heels and a light cardigan, and you're good to go!

On sale for $20 (was $35), this piece is a must-have for seasonal weddings and beyond. Its size range is impeccable, available in sizes XS-4X.

Maeve The Cecily Fit & Flare Sweetheart Mini Dress

This mint green mini lives rent-free in our heads. The sweetheart neckline is definitely more sophisticated for fancier weddings, and the cap sleeves are wonderfully femme in lieu of springtime. Additionally, this linen-cotton blend piece flaunts thoughtfully details from the front buttons to the vertical seam work!

This $158 mini from Maeve is shoppable in sizes XXS-XL now.

Madewell Square Neck Linen Minidress

For going somewhere more casual, this Madewell mini dress fits like your fave t-shirt. With a stretchy elastic band that secures the bust, you'll feel super comfy. Plus, the square neckline provides some delightful coverage if you're looking for it! The softness of the linen is truly unmatched and the light blue hue is great for warmer weather.

This $110 dress will last you year after year for any occasion since it's easy to style formally or casually. It's shoppable in sizes 14-24!

Looking for more wedding style content? Scroll our Weddings section and sign up for our newsletter for the latest trends!

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

Lead image via Anthropologie.

This post has been updated.

What you eat can greatly affect your skin, causing different side effects, both good and bad. Luckily, there are so many foods that can revitalize your skin and get it back to feeling radiant and looking glowy from the inside out — and just in time for summer! If you don't know where to start, we've got you covered with expert advice on all the best foods for your skin, plus all those bites you might wanna avoid.

Best Foods For Your Skin

Photo by Olena Bohovyk/Unsplash

Grapes, Strawberries, Blood Oranges, and Watermelon

Elina Fedotova of Elina Organics, says that colorful fruit are key to achieving good skin! She says, "Colorful fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, and healthy fats like butter or plant oils help improve skin immunity and protect against environmental UV damage. Liquid collagen is popular as a skin-rejuvenating food or supplement, but when you do that, make sure you are making the smoothie with collagen peptides. The collagen is broken into small pieces called peptides which absorb much better and signal your body to regenerate collagen." So clearly, collagen is vital if you want to have glowy skin.

Elina also says, "It is a scientifically proven fact that people who eat very high levels of antioxidant-rich diets with fruits and vegetables and anthocyanosides — they can stay in the sun without any protection much longer because their body can protect them naturally from UV damage." Her three rules for healthy skin?

  1. No processed foods.
  2. Eat tons of antioxidants.
  3. Use an SPF — preferably one that is a mineral Zinc Oxide based — alongside protective hats in the sun.

So not only can certain foods make your skin look radiant, they can also protecting you from the sun with proper precautions! We love to hear that!

Photo by Dose Juice/Unsplash

Leafy Greens, Broccoli, Asparagus, and Edamame

Leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, and edamame are some of our favorite foods to eat that will give you that inside-out glow. Nutritionist and wellness expert Jessica Green says, "Silica rich foods are a great place to start — these include celery, asparagus, banana, cucumber, green beans to name my favorite. When you juice some of these, they can become more bio-available. Celery juice for instance is excellent at giving your skin a beautiful natural glow. Collagen rich foods can help improve skin elasticity — bone broth is my absolute favorite for not only its skin benefit but bone broth is also very calming for the gut."

Skin elasticity can easily be improved through these foods and can make you look 10 years younger! I definitely notice a significant difference in my skin when I regularly eat collagen-rich foods than when I don't!

Photo by Thought Catalog/Unsplash

Avocado and Olive Oil

Avocados and olive oil are really going to up your skin game, and giving you that gorgeous glow for summer we're really looking for. Kristen White, RDN, CLT, says, "Clean fats like olive oil, avocados, coconut oil, and tallow in our diet help replenish needed vitamins and fatty acids to help skin look its vibrant best." That's exactly what we want!

In regards to olive oil, it really is the must-have when it comes to achieving a glowy complexion. Jenny Jiles, a holistic nutritionist says, "Olive oil is the GOAT. We know why all of those women in the Mediterranean look so vibrant and sexy as they age, because olive oil is such a staple in their diet. Don’t be afraid of this healthy fat, it’s filled with antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids which help protect your skin from free radicals to reduce those fine lines and help you glow from the inside out. Add olive oil to any and all of your meals, savory or sweet (yes, trust me on that)." So I guess the key to looking like an Italian goddess this summer (and always) is olive oil!

Photo by Maddi Bazzocco/Unsplash

Chia, Flax Seeds, and Sunflower Seeds

Many seeds and grains are going to be crucial in giving you radiant skin. Plus, they have so many healing properties that can help reduce redness and inflammation in the skin. Christine Glaser, CEO of DIY Skincare Business, says, "Chia and flax seeds are also helpful for all skin types and can aid in toxin removal." And sunflower seeds actually have antibacterial properties too that help get rid of toxins in order to keep your skin looking fresh and clear; thus the radiant skin we're trying to achieve here!

Photo by María Sainz Cabezalí/Unsplash

Red Bell Peppers, Carrot, and Tomatoes

You always want to have a variety of colors when eating fruits and vegetables because this will help you get the most out of your diet and achieve maximum radiance. A health expert and dietician, Chrissy Arsenault of Kori, says, "Eat lots of fruits and veggies. Choose 2-3 colors of fruits and veggies at every meal – fruits and veggies are rich in antioxidants (vitamins A, C, E) that protect your skin from damage." And tomatoes, carrots, and bell peppers are very rich in color so they will give you so many great nutritional benefits that will assist in giving you a perfect inside-out glow!

What foods should I avoid for my skin?

Photo by MART PRODUCTION/PEXELS

If you want radiant, clear, acne-free skin then you definitely want to avoid foods high in dairy or sugar. Jessica Green says, "When it comes to foods to avoid for radiant skin, sugar and dairy float to the top. Both are inflammatory. Sugar causes glycation which damages the skin's elasticity. Dairy (cow dairy specifically) tends to be one of the most common foods that cause reactions for people including acne and puffiness." I'm definitely taking note to try and cut our these foods now!

Sign up for our newsletter for more health tips and tricks!

Lead image via Pexels/Sora Shimazaki

If there are two things you can count on, it's that I'm always thinking about Gilmore Girls and I'm always listening to Taylor Swift. As soon as I pressed play on The Tortured Poets Department, I could tell this album would resonate with so many experiences I had a child and a teenager. I've always been imaginative (and, admittedly, a bit spacey), and to this day, I never leave home without a book.

I've built thousands of imaginary worlds and crafted endless stories, but have always had difficulty keeping up with real-world relationships. So, needless to say, when I listened to Taylor Swift's new album and heard "I Hate It Here" and "The Bolter," I felt seen. I also realized these two songs would speak to Rory Gilmore in the same way!

Rory Gilmore Would Love "I Hate It Here" By Taylor Swift...

Image via Warner Bros. TV

"I Hate It Here" totally showcases Taylor Swift's ability to express raw emotions, and it also perfectly captures Rory Gilmore's struggles during certain periods of her life. The lyrics reflect frustration and dissatisfaction we can all feel sometimes (I know I've definitely felt them), and while Rory and Taylor's dreams in and of themselves are different, they both want to leave their small towns to achieve them. Whether it's feeling overwhelmed by expectations or facing setbacks in her career in Gilmore Girls season 5, Rory has moments throughout the series where she feels a bit trapped.

But even more than the physical meaning of the song is the imaginary one. Taylor sings about creating worlds in her mind and diving into books to escape the mundane. Rory reads more than any fictional character I've ever seen before because she also craves that escapism! The lyrics of "I Hate It Here" resonate with Rory when she wants to live different lives, and it encapsulates the moments when she struggles or questions her decisions — relatable!

...And She'd Feel Attacked By "The Bolter" By Taylor Swift

Image via Warner Bros. TV

TBH, I'm half convinced "The Bolter" is referencing Amy March (after all, Amy has been "reviled" by readers for hundreds of years, and she "almost drowned...in frigid water" like Taylor sings), which is just another literary reference Rory would pick up on.

In "The Bolter," Taylor Swift captures the essence of a woman constantly seeking adventure and change, just like Rory Gilmore, and it's all about the idea of a restless spirit. While the lyrics can be taken from a hypothetical standpoint (feeling trapped by relationships or other people's expectations), we can also talk about it literally considering Rory physically runs away from Jess.

Rory might desire love, but the idea of it also scares her — two facts that don't cancel each other out! Just like Taylor Swift, I think Rory's thrilled by the idea of escape simply because she's so risk averse in other areas of her life. Once again, I say, relatable!!

"The Bolter" and "I Hate It Here" are both incredibly engaging songs because they highlight just how complex we are as humans — both in the ways we relate to ourselves and other people. And they're just two Taylor Swift songs Rory would definitely add to her playlist.

Which Taylor Swift and Rory Gilmore parallels do you see? Follow us on Facebook for more pop culture musings!

Lead image via Warner Bros. TV