Here’s When You Should Toss Your Favorite Closet Basics

With spring cleaning season upon us, it’s time to start thinking about hitting the refresh button on, well, just about everything you own. For fashion girls, the best way to kick it off is with a good old closet detox. The undeniably invigorating feeling of putting thick sweaters and snow boots into storage is an easy motivator, but sometimes you have to get down to the nitty gritty and — dun, dun dun — purge. That word — the “p” word — might be so dreaded because ultimately, it forces you to make hard should-it-stay-or-should-it-go decisions. Not just with last season’s trends, but with those beloved closet basics that maybe, just might be on their last legs. How do you determine what can be saved and repaired, what needs to get trashed and what should be repeatedly replaced?

We talked to SunnyLou Notario, a Chicago-based, ready-wear stylist for Prada, about how to determine the shelf life of your closet faves, garment by garment. With SunnyLou’s nifty insight, you’ll be able to approach your nasty beast of a wardrobe like a boss whenever you decide to get down and dirty with your spring cleaning. Closet cleaning ain’t easy, but this guide will give you some insight into why and when to make those “keep” and “toss” decisions, and even give you tips on how to repair and prolong the life of your best basics. Ready, set, clean!

Average Shelf Life: When it comes to the most basic of all the basics, it depends on how much you wear it and wash it. Speaking from her own experience, SunnyLou says, “I wear my black shirt almost every day, I bought it maybe a month ago, it already looks ragged down because I wear it so often and I wash it so often.” Simply put, the more you wear it, the more often you will have to replace it. To balance out the wear and tear, pick up 2-3 tees in your go-to colors so you can keep it in rotation without having to worry about over-washing. If you’ve only worn it once, there’s no shame in Febrezing and stowing away until the next wear.

How to Know When It’s on Its Last Legs: Some stains can be past the point of removal — think: pits — and too major for a trendy pin or patch to stylishly hide it. Holes are usually be pretty tough to repair, so unless you want to embrace your tee’s more distressed, punk-y vibe, then it might be time to toss it.

Can you bring it back to life? Grab some scissors and cut that tee up! There are so many ways to repurpose a t-shirt: halter it, twist it, crop it, throw some buttons on there if you want — the options are endless. Worst case scenario: If you just can’t part with it, you can always work it into your bedtime t-shirt rotation.

When’s the right time to replace it? When your fave white tee isn’t so white, and when your black tee is more a shade of gray. Since t-shirts aren’t necessarily a big ticket wardrobe item (or they at least don’t have to be), you could probably replace them more than most of your wardrobe staples — once every six months or so depending on their condition. That’s not the worst thing, necessarily. No one can deny the comfiness of a new tee.

Whole Oil Spill Tee ($80)

Average Shelf Life: As it goes with most garments, it depends on how much and how hard you wear your denim. One go-to hack SunnyLou always practices? Go for dark denim. “The shelf life for a darker denim is longer than something lighter because the lighter the dye, the more you’re going to see the wear and tear and the discoloration for all the wash,” she says. Darker denim also has a longer shelf life because it takes longer to fade, which is a huge perk, says SunnyLou. “This is going to sound crazy, but I like buying things dark because over time I know it’s going to get lighter and lighter. I’m okay with that because it’s like it was black but it’s gray now so now I have gray jeans and I’ll just tell everyone that it’s gray.” Don’t consider it a fade, consider it a whole new piece! If you’re looking for jeans that will last, the higher the brand quality, the longer it will last. It might be more of an investment, but if you have a steady rotation of quality jeans — maybe two or three pairs — they can last a year or two (or more) depending on how often you wear them. If the denim is stronger, it can live in your dresser longer.

How to Know When It’s on Its Last Legs: Ripped jeans will come in and out of style, but one spot has never become trendy. Holes in the upper thigh area usually mean they are past the point of repair, unless you get some patchwork involved.

Can you bring it back to life? Jeans arguably have the strongest chance of a second life of any item in your closet, especially when you roll up your DIY sleeves. “If there are certain jeans where you know you love the fit and you love the cut but it looks distressed or destroyed or it’s snagging, distress it yourself,” says SunnyLou. “The beauty of denim is that even if it’s torn up, it can still be crazy chic.” (Ripped jeans + heels = total rock star vibes.) According to SunnyLou, as you’re cutting that denim up, “You’re bringing it back to life even though it looks kind of dead. It’s fashion road kill, in a good way.” Come summertime, you can turn those bad boys into shorts.

When’s the right time to replace it? If you aren’t happy with the state of your fade, or if your distressed jeans are too torn for your comfort, grab a new pair. Tossing a favorite pair of jeans is like saying good-bye to a best friend, but there’s no better feeling than finding a new perfect pair to be besties with.

Madewell Cruiser Straight Crop Jeans ($128)

Average Shelf Life: Your everyday flats, boots or sneakers might have a year and some change in them depending on how much action they get, which is something to keep into consideration when you’re debating what to splurge and save on (for instance, leather goods can become long-time closet staples if you know how to give them proper care). If it’s seasonal stuff, like sandals or winter boots, they might have a longer life — approximately two to three years, depending on how much you wear them and how sturdy they are — since they’re only in use a few months out of the year. With gym or running shoes, they last as long as your body allows, really. As soon as the cushioning and comfort starts to give out, it’s best to replace.

How to Know When It’s on Its Last Legs: Holes and broken straps are unfortunate deal breakers. When it comes to dirt or mud, the longer you take to clean them, the hard the damage is to repair, especially when it comes to canvas (so the more weather proof you kicks are, the better). Not to get gross, but if odor is your enemy, there are all kinds of household items you can stick in your shoes to kill the stink (baking soda, dryer sheets or tea bags can do the trick). If they can’t be saved, you might want to double bag those kicks and trash ’em.

Can you bring it back to life? With the right cobbler, broken shoes can have new life. With heels, nails that poke out can be replaced. SunnyLou’s biggest secret weapon for leather shoes? Leather cleaner and moisturizer can give your leather a renewed glow. “It might be dead and beaten down but once you polish it, it’s going to look brand new,” she says.

When’s the right time to replace it? Depends on the gal; depends on the shoe. If your favorite black heels have been your go-to fancy shoes for years AND still fit and look like a dream? They can stay. If they’re causing you more harm then good (you’ve replaced the buckle several times, there is some fraying, they hurt your toes more than they help them), than it might be time to update. More than anything, remember to be good to your feet. If your support is worn out, don’t punish your heels. Show them some new, cushioned love.

Rebecca Minkoff Bethany Heel ($325)

Average Shelf Life: There really is a sweater for every season, so the shelf life can last depending on the seasonal wear of the piece. Go-to cardigans might have a briefer life depending on the material and how often you wear them. For example, acrylic might be cheaper than cashmere, but the shelf life is a fraction of the years you’ll get out of investing in the latter. (Pro tip: Opt for a cashmere blend if you want to save some dollars.) No matter what the material, you have to treat your knitwear well. “When it comes to cashmere or wool, I would either hand wash it and air dry it, or take it to a dry cleaners,” says SunnyLou. “Cashmere sweaters are obviously really beautiful and they’ll last a long time, but maintenance is also a huge factor.” You can control the destiny of your knits, you just have to be good to them!

How to Know When It’s on Its Last Legs: If you ignore the care directions of your sweaters, you risk ruining them. Shrunken sweaters can make for a sad laundry night. If you aren’t able to stretch them back to their original state or a similar shape, they’re not worth holding on to. Sometimes damage can be done that we have no control over, like snags that can start small and grow. Sweaters aren’t the easiest to repair, so once you hit the breaking point with any holes or snags, time to give it the heave ho. Fall is always a great time to revamp your sweater collection, with plentiful options to choose from. When the leaves start falling, keep your eyes peeled for some new knitwear.

Can you bring it back to life? When it comes to pilly or fuzzy sweaters, you can get rid of unnecessary puffs by shaving them! Take a simple razor and de-scruff. SunnyLou also recommends steaming to bring a sweater back to life. “There’s just something about steaming that, for me, it brings clothes back to life. It just looks brand new, it looks polished, it looks fresh. It looks like you just got it from the store.”

When is the right time to replace? If the fluff won’t go away and the holes are big enough to pass your arm through, pick up some new knitwear. Sweaters can have very long shelf lives with the right amount of care, but that doesn’t mean they’ll last forever. Plus, the warm, soft feeling of a new sweater is pretty unbeatable.

Zara Striped Sweater ($40)

Average Shelf Life: The phrase “timeless” might have been invented for LBDs. Your comfier, wear-at-least-a-couple-times-a-week LBD might not last a crazy-long time, but those special occasion black dresses can go for years. Investing in a new LBD once a season is a great way to stay on trend. Even if the style of it isn’t trendy at the moment, there’s nothing like a good little black dress.

How to Know When It’s on Its Last Legs: Like with any black garment, the fade is always an indicator of the state of your piece. If it’s no longer the shade you love or it’s out of shape (in terms of fabric or any damage done), it might be time to toss.

Can you bring it back to life? If the damage isn’t too rough — like a torn strap or a slightly ripped seam — a good dry cleaner or seamstress should be able to save your dress. SunnyLou swears by that mentality: “Go to a good dry cleaner who knows what they’re doing to help pieces last longer and stay in a good condition,” she advises.

When’s the right time to replace it? Keeping LBDs in rotation is a must for any closet. If you want to minimize wear, rotate “the one” with a classic cut and a trendy design. If you encounter a repair that can’t be fixed — like a beyond-busted zipper — then grab a new LBD. When it comes to little black dresses, there’s no such thing as too many. Don’t be afraid to add to your collection.

A Common Space Bare Shoulders Dress ($85)

Average Shelf Life: It’s normal to have an array of purse options, but we all have at least one or two that are in a steady or daily rotation. Like a good staple of any wardrobe, the better care you take of it, the longer it will last. Some gals rotate their day-to-day bag one or two times a year. Fancy clutches for special occasions are easy to hold on to because they aren’t used as often, and consequently, aren’t damaged as much. Tote bags can last depending out their usage (if you bring it to the farmer’s market every weekend, just make sure to clean it when you empty it). It also depends on the material. Well-conditioned leather can last eons, while canvas bags can be easily damaged. If you love your bag, show it some love.

How to Know When It’s on Its Last Legs: If it’s tough damage that can’t be undone (think: torn up straps or holes), you might have to say “bye” to your bag. Spills can also kill your bag, depending on the substance or how quickly the spill can be addressed and cleaned. Also, if it’s the style factor you’re not feeling anymore, consider donating instead of tossing. In this case, consignment shops can be a girl’s best friend.

Can you bring it back to life? Big ticket item or not, there can be hope. If it’s a designer brand, SunnyLou recommends attempting to heal it at the source. “I know for my company, if there’s something that goes wrong with the hardware, we’re able to ship it out to our repair lab. Depending on the time frame that you purchased it, they might send it out for free or it’s going to be at a minimal cost.” With something like torn lining, if you’re comfortable with your needle and thread skills, don’t be afraid to try and patch it up yourself. If you aren’t comfortable DIYing your repair, or if it’s something a little tougher like a busted zipper, shoe cobblers can help you out big time.

When’s the right time to replace it? This one’s pretty plain and simple. According to SunnyLou, “Sometimes you just have to get rid of it. As much as you want to save it, the trouble will be too much. Treat yourself to a new bag.” There’s no denying that a great bag can make even the most mundane of outfits great. Don’t deny yourself the joy of a new purse! In the very wise words of Sunny Lou, “We all work so hard, we all deserve one great piece of arm ware and that’s a good handbag… No one’s going to care if your jeans are faded or if your shoes are destroyed, because people are going to look at your bag.”

Baggu Basic Tote Pastel ($160)

What are your closet cleaning rules? Follow us on Pinterest for more colorful + fun style inspo.

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

Fans who were left on the edge of their seats after watching the first part of AHS: Delicate last year won't have to wait longer for part two! Emma Roberts and Kim Kardashian are gearing up to pick up where their characters left off, and sinister twists are about to get much darker. While we know the focus revolves around their interactions, we can't wait to see how Gilmore Girls star Matt Czuchry fits into what's sure to be a big reveal.

Read on for a mini recap of part one of AHS: Delicateand learn all the juicy details about part two!

Recap of Kim Kardashian's involvement in AHS: Delicate

Image via FX Networks

Kim Kardashian as 'Siobhan' in "American Horror Story: Delicate"

As good as Kim Kardashian is as the icy publicist Siobhan on AHS: Delicate, don't expect her to watch herself onscreen. She appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live yesterday and explained why she hasn't seen herself in clips of the show when Jimmy Kimmel played and unsettling one.

Her character can be seen intimidating a fertility doctor to do her bidding as she pierces the top of his neck with a long orange fingernail. She smiled before saying "It's so funny, I can't watch it back," and then added, "I get so nervous."

She even talked about the difference between filming for TV and working as an actual actress. She said, "I called my sisters and I go, 'Guys. You — not to say you'd ever want to get into acting — but you are so lucky you can wake up and just, we can sit in bed and film, and you don't have to get up...like there is no schedule."

However, it seems like the budding actress took her new schedule in stride because Star Trek actor and AHS co-star Zachary Quinto applauded Kardashian’s acting chops.

“I did a cameo on this season of ‘American Horror Story’ and I got to meet her,” the actor told People. “She was so lovely and warm and, really, I don’t think she needs my advice.” Quinto added, sharing that Kardashian, was “really in her element” on set and he was “really impressed by her spirit and her openness…I really look forward to seeing this season because I think she’s gonna do a wonderful job.”

Recap of AHS: Delicate Part 1

Image via FX Networks

The first part of AHS: Delicate premiered on FX September 20, 2023 and centered around actress Anna Victoria Alcott's desire to become a mother. Played by Emma Roberts, viewers watched as her husband Dexter Harding (played by Matt Czuchry) was supportive of her IVF procedure so the couple could conceive their first child. Despite the previous struggles, the procedure is a success and the happy couple learn they have a baby on the way.

However, things go horribly wrong when Anna starts being followed and eventually experiences a violent miscarriage during her first trimester. Somehow the baby actually survives, but Anna still experiences a series of strange hallucinations and events. From losing her hair to vomiting a foreign object, she starts to wonder if something is wrong with her baby. There's also the fact that she told her publicist Siobhan (played by Kim Kardashian) that she'd do anything to remain at the top of the her career.

What's revealed is that a baby cult does exist and Dexter's dead first wife knew all about it. However, the cult still looks at him as a threat so it's only a matter of time before they close in.

If you need a refresher, catch up on the first part of AHS: Delicate on Hulu and be sure to check out the eery trailer for a look at part two! Also, get your hands on a copy of Danielle Valentine’s novel Delicate Condition to see how the story truly unfolds.

Watch The Official Trailer For AHS: Delicate Part 2

www.youtube.com

American Horror Story: Delicate Part Two | Official Trailer - Emma Roberts, Kim Kardashian | FX

We suspected Siobhan may have a darker role than Anna thinks and the trailer confirms it. As Anna gets further along in her pregnancy, it's hinted that her growing baby may not be 'normal' and there's nothing she'll be able to do about it.

We're crossing our fingers for Anna and Dexter, but the baby cult may have the final say in AHS: Delicate Part 2.

The first portion of AHS: Delicate Part 2 premiered on FX April 3, 2024, but the series will come to a close beginning April 24. All we can say is things are about to get extremely bumpy 👀.

What do you think will happen during the final moments of AHS: Delicate Part 2? Let us know in the comments!

Stay updated on the latest entertainment news with Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.
Header image via FX Networks

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

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

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

When anyone asks me for my favorite movie-viewing experiences, A Simple Favor (starring Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick) always makes the list. When I first watched the movie, I knew next to nothing about the plot, and it made the viewing experience ten times better, especially since I had a watch party with a bunch of friends who *also* had no expectations. I know A Simple Favor 2 is going to be just as sexy, unexpected, and gripping as the original. Keep reading for everything we know about the new movie, from the A Simple Favor 2 release date to casting announcements!

What is A Simple Favor 2 about?

Image via Lionsgate

A Simple Favor 2 will see the "return of Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman," according to the movie's synopsis (via People). "Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square."

The first leaked images show the aforementioned extravagant wedding, with Blake Lively's Emily in a wedding dress and Anna Kendrick's Stephanie standing by her side in a gorgeous floral midi dress. While the first A Simple Favor ended with Emily in prison, I have no doubt whatsoever that we'll see her make a grand escape to coastal Italy. The only thing chicer than martinis and crime at home is martinis and crime while basking in the Italian sun.

Is there A Simple Favor 2 movie?

Image via Lionsgate

Yes, Deadline confirmed in May of 2022 that we're getting A Simple Favor 2! The sequel film will be produced by Lionsgate and Amazon Studios, and reportedly, Paul Feig will direct again, while Jessica Sharzer will write the screenplay. I still talk about the script for A Simple Favor, so if Jessica is returning, I will be seated!

When is the A Simple Favor 2 release date?

Image via Lionsgate

I'm expecting A Simple Favor 2 to hit our screens in 2025. Filming was originally scheduled for the fall of 2023, but after the Hollywood strikes delayed a variety of projects, production on the film was pushed to 2024. A Simple Favor 2 will reportedly begin filming in April of 2024.

Who's in the A Simple Favor 2 cast?

Image via Lionsgate

We can expect to see Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick return for this sequel. Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, and Kelly McCormack are also set to star in A Simple Favor 2. Glee fans will also love knowing that Alex Newell is joining the cast along with Allison Janey! We can't wait to see the characters they'll be playing!

How does A Simple Favor end in the book?

Image via Amazon

The A Simple Favor book ending is *wildly* different than the movie ending! Instead of Stephanie turning on Emily and joining Sean, and then Emily getting run over by a car and put in prison for the murder of her father and sister (plus, you know, all the other illegal activity), Stephanie actually takes Emily's side.

In the book, Sean stays in a hotel while Emily gets custody of Nicky. The novel ends with the police finding Emily's ring inside the car of her main victim (a move that was probably orchestrated by Stephanie since Sean gave her the ring), and Emily deciding to pack up her life and leave.

Are you excited for A Simple Favor 2? Do you prefer the ending to the A Simple Favor movie or the book? Follow us on Facebook for more movie news!

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

This post has been updated.

Lead image via Lionsgate

I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!

Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.

My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!

1. Just Get The Dang Haircut

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.

According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.

2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.

3. Switch Up Your Shampoos

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.

If you need some more hair inspo and advice, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

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

Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓

Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil

The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.

The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.

Anthropologie Faye Planter

For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.

The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw

She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!

This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.

DedCool Room & Linen Spray

Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!

The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.

Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box

When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.

The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.

Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer

This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!

The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.

Little Secret Round Sunglasses

Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.

The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.

The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set

Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.

This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.

Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil

This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!

This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.

Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion

This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!

The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.

Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals

These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.

The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.

Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix

Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.

This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote

This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.

This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.

Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set

For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.

The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.

Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders

These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!

This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.

Verloop Raffia Phone Sling

Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.

The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!

The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).

UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet

Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!

The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.

Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher

Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!

The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.

Ban.do Meal Planner

This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.

This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.

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