18 Adorable Pairs Of Women’s Clogs That Prove Why Everyone's Talking About Them

womens clogs to wear this fall

Though once clunky, chunky, and admittedly less than chic, women’s clogs are making a total comeback. Whether you’re a seasoned clog-lover or are dipping your toes into the classic style for the first time, you’ve likely seen them everywhere, from celebs to social media. It’s a quirky shoe silhouette that can be executed in *so* many different ways – sleek leather, soft suede, platforms, flatforms, and more are on the women’s clogs market.

Clogs are a great addition to your office outfit, or a nice touch for going out on the weekends. Let’s dive feet-first into the world of women's clogs (the cutest ones around, that is) and discover why they’re hot right now!

J. Crew Convertible Leather Clogs

A direct homage to traditional clogs, this pair strikes the perfect balance between chunky and chic.

Alohas Pico Leather Espadrilles

These women's clogs get the espadrilles treatment with a wonderous woven sole.

Crocs Dylan Burnished Clogs

Have you ever seen Crocs so stylish? This brown pair is simple and straightforward, making the shoes easy to match with other garments.

SeaVees Bodega Clog

These water-resistant clogs are as easy to style as they are to slip on. The traction on the sole ensures you won't slip and slide, no matter the terrain you're tackling. This women's clog design can serve a practical purpose (like gardening and housework) or be more of a personal style statement when you wear 'em with a dress or jeans.

Birkenstock Boston Suede Leather Clogs

This rich blue hue is sure to turn heads!

Madewell The Cecily Shearling Clogs

Don't settle for anything but warm this winter. These cushioned clogs ensure your toes stay toasty!

Urban Outfitters Shaina Calf Hair Clogs

You can make any day shine brightly with these yellow women's clogs.

Diba True Dreamy Daze Mules

These clogs are a real mood (and height) boost. Wear them with flared pants or a long dress to complete your ensemble.

Alohas Halia Clogs

Made oh-so easy to slip in and out of, these moto-leaning clogs are certainly fit to be an everyday shoe.

Madewell The Janeen Platform Mules

This tailored pick is great for formal occasions.

Everlane The Puffa Flatforms

Each step you take in these women's clogs will be cushy AF – plus, the color here is a real showstopper.

Free People Karlie Buckle Clogs

A stylish step up from Crocs clogs, this style from Free People flaunts a chunky sole.

Matisse Lenni Mules

These platformed shoes will give your look a boost, no matter what you're wearing.

Boden Snaffle Trim Heeled Clogs

Stand out from the crowd as you tote around in these clogs that are fitted with a distinct gold buckle and buttons.

Jeffrey Campbell Clogge

Made from weather-resistant materials, these monochromatic women's clogs are the ultimate choice for rainy days.

Roolee MIA Sofia Clogs

The wooden base on this clog design recalls the traditional silhouette. The neutral tones also make the pair a natural go-to.​

Vagabond Dorah Mules

The chunky heel completes these women's clogs with suave.

BC Footwear Soft Grunge Treaded Clog

The backstrap on this shoe style will keep your stompers nice and secure for dinner dates and nights out on the town.

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Lead image via Urban Outfitters.

athis post has been updated.

You’ve probably already spotted these shoes on your favorite influencer. Rothy’s are swiftly becoming The Shoe to have, and it’s clear why. Rothy’s offers a wide range of trendy shoe options, from Mary Janes to ballet flats and platform sandals toclogs (all of which are stunning and exceptionally comfortable), but more importantly, they’re made with special attention to sustainability.

Rothy’s are crafted from single-use plastics and other repurposed organic materials in order to promote circular fashion and zero-waste practices in the industry. Sustainability is chic – and Rothy’s is a testament to that!

They’re oh-so worth the investment knowing your purchase supports their sustainable mission. All Rothy’s shoe styles (and even their bags) are fully machine washable to keep them nice and new-looking, no matter what. They’re staples that’ll last you a lifetime and tons of mileage.

Here are the 7 most iconic Rothy’s silhouettes you should rock this summer!

The Square Mary Jane

This signature Rothy's shoe (seriously, it's all over our FYP) features a flexible, stretchy woven upper layer – and it's so comfy. These Mary Janes boast a square toe for added chicness and an attached strap for wearing them with ease. No buckles or buttons here! Each pair is fitted with durable outsoles that easily tolerate city walks and park strolls. It won't even feel like you're wearing flats.

The Square Mary Jane goes for $159 and is available in 10 different colors.

The Ballet Flat

The bows on these ballet flats are the perfect size, TBH. They add an air of cuteness that any summer 'fit could benefit from! These shoes feature a very trendy rounded toe and a mesh construction that adds breathability to each and every step. Rothy's promises "no break in period, ever" with the cozy insole you can enjoy wearing all day long.

The Ballet Flat is shoppable for $145 and is available in 18 different colors and patterns.

The Point II

New office shoes, incoming! These pointed babies give some real sophisticated vibes – the pointed toe is signature of slingbacks, too, but this version is way more comfortable. The Point II from Rothy's is essentially an upgraded version of their OG The Point shoe. According to the brand, this new iteration has a "more spacious toebox, added elastic, sculpted outsoles and our innovative In Love Insole™ for outrageous all-day comfort." The mesh material on this pair makes for the perfect summer shoe since it's very elastic-like, moving accordingly with your step.

The Point II costs $155 and is available in a whopping 29 different colors and patterns.

The Espadrille

A more elevated style than the aforementioned shoes, these espadrilles are a great go-to for more formal summer occasions. The upper's made from a breathable hemp fabric that supplies a lightweight feel to the feet. Rothy's promise for these slip-ons is that they have an "unbelievably cushy footbed." The ankle ties pictured above are removable, so there's a good amount of styling possibilities with this Rothy's shoe.

The Espadrille is shoppable for $139 in 8 different colors.

The Lightweight Wedge Sandal

For a slight boost in height (that's still wickedly comfortable), call on The Lightweight Wedge Sandal. The layered heel height measures about 2.25 inches, and feels like an absolute dream! The stretchy straps atop these Rothy's shoes are stitched on, so you're not left messing with any finicky buttons, clasps, or buckles (or chafing, for that matter). The thicker platform ends in the brand's signature durable outsole for practical reasons – walking, strolling, skipping, or even dancing in the summertime. Whatever floats your boat!

The Lightweight Wedge Sandal costs $179 and is available to shop in 3 different neutral colorways.

The Weekend Slide

This cheetah print just oozes trendiness. The slide-on fit of these Rothy's sandals makes outings so easy, you won't want to wear anything else. The thick duo straps made of hemp provide some good coverage on top of the foot, so you'll feel fully fitted. The footbed is made from a durable contoured rubber, still has some softness to it for walking purposes.

The Weekend Slide costs $139 and is shoppable in 5 different colors and patterns.

The Casual Clog

This ultra-cool girl clog is available in 3 hemp colors and 5 Merino wool colors for cooler weather, but no matter the time of year, they're gonna look gorgeous. They boast a ribbed outsole for added traction, and they're fully free of any extra bells and whistles. The very simple outer layer meets a contoured footbed with some lovely arch support to encourage a cozy step.

The Casual Clog goes for $159.

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Images via Rothy's.

No vacation is complete without flowy maxi dresses, cute hairstyles, and allllll the summer nail designs. When it comes to summer vacation, you're in your relaxation era, and you deserve to feel good and look cute! But if you can't figure out which summer nail designs you should be paying attention to, take a deep breath! I found 10 adorable options that are stylish, yet practical so you can make your way over to the swim-up bar in style. Here's all the inspo that I'd take to the nail salon for your next appointment!

Image via abolfazl zarghami/Pexels

Short Abstract Acrylic Summer Nails

If you decide to get an acrylic or gel overlay for a couple of weeks, opt for a shorter style so that you don't have to worry about accidentally breaking them while you're dressed in tenniscore during your friendly pickleball match.

The burnt orange lines and outlines here perfectly complement the flashes of turquoise and brown in this abstract design, making it the perfect choice if you plan to spend your days lounging on Miami Beach. These nail sheets from Amazon are a great option for someone wanting to try this on a budget!

Image via Bellacures

Pops of Magenta Nail Designs

Do you live for a good surprise that's not overwhelming? Me too! It's one of the reasons why I think this summer nail design by Bellacures is the perfect for just that.

It features a light pastel pink nail polish base with two varying magenta dots near your cuticles. While you can easily achieve this look at the salon with a fresh set of acrylic nails, you also don't have to! You can DIY this at home with Olive and June's Rosy Tips as a base for your nails, and their Biggest Bow nail polish for the magenta dots!

Image via Kristina Paukshtite/Pexels

Be One with Nature Nail Designs

Summer nail designs don't have to be in-your-face to make a statement. All you need is one nail color that's associated with warmer days to truly speak to the upcoming season — like OPI's Peppermint Bark and Bite! It has a gorgeous metallic shine that'll truly make this gorgeous nail design sparkle.

Want to get the natural, earthy vibe from home? Try this Evergreen Tree Stickers nail art from Olive and June!

Image via Olive & June

Long Royal Blue French Nail Designs

Do you want your nails to do the talking for you? Opt for long, royal blue acrylic nails that are an updated version of acrylic nails. The color and length alone will make people pay attention to whatever you're saying and wearing. If that's the goal, ask your nail tech to use China Glaze's Simply Fa-Blue-Less Nail Lacquer! Want something quick and easy to achieve at home? Olive & June has a press on for that: Blue Metallic French Glue Press-OnsGlue Press-Ons

Image via Bellacures

Orange Sorbet with Sprinkles

While orange was never my favorite color growing up, I can't get enough of this colorful shade now! It's like all I can think about when I see this nail design is a yummy smoothie or sorbet popsicle that has a hint of mandarin orange in it.

If you plan to indulge in a ton of sorbet to keep cool during scorching days, it's only right that your nails match! For a less designed — but just as cute — option, try these Creamsicle Tab Press-Ons from Olive and June!

Image via Impress

Astrologically Correct

Are you the kind of person who relies on your weekly horoscope to plan your summer vacation or pick what you're gonna grab for dinner? These astrological nail designs are waiting for you.

They have a witchy vibe that guarantees they'll go with any outfit you plan to wear and that's what make them one of the best summer nail designs you can wear! While you can ask your nail tech to get creative with this at the salon, I love that imPRESS has some at-home options you can literally press on yourself!

Image via Bellacures

Short & Sweet Vibrant Nails

Keep it short and sweet with another version of a french manicure that features different colors at the top of each nail. You can go as vibrant as you want or you can opt for pastel colors! This gives you a little pop without overpowering your amazing summer vacation look I know you're slaying right now.

For a vertical, at-home take on this look, Olive and June have these Neon Lines Glue Press-Ons!

Image via Bellacures

Abstract Pastel Colors

Keep the pastel party going with another abstract idea! Bellacures nail salon suggests taking your otherwise neutral manicure to the next level by adding varying shades of pastel blues, pinks, purples, yellows, and greens to each nail. Need a press-on option as a girl on-the-go? Grab these Glamnetic Jelly Bean Short Oval Press-On Nails!

Image via Shae Devereaux/Pexels

Simple, Dreamy Vibes

Abstract summer nail designs clearly have a special place in my heart — but it's because they can be as simple or bold as you want! I like this nail set because it's great for attending summer cocktail parties, weddings, or work events without causing too much of a scene. All you need is a nice white nail polish that's not opaque (it matters) and you're all set! Don't have a steady hand? These press-ons from imPRESS will work just as well!

Which summer nail designs will you try at home or show to your nail tech during your next salon visit?

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Lead image via Bellacures

Cotopaxi is renowned for their ultra-high quality and innovative design that never compromises functionality – and it goes without saying that their vibrant backpack, duffel bag, and apparel designs are beautiful. Their pieces are priced accordingly, which is why their current sales are not ones to be missed. Here are the details:

  • May 10-16: 50% off past season clothing and gear
  • May 17-27: Summer Kick Off sale on past season's gear + new product
Now that the weather’s looking up, it’s time to get out. Whether you’re a granola girl planning this season’s coolest day hikes or just someone who’s looking to step outside more, you’ll need the proper gear to guide you. Shop our favorite pieces from the Cotopaxi sale!

Bags

Lagos 5L Hiking Hydration Hip Pack

$50, was $100

This hip pack is the ultimate hydration hack for hiking, running, or even biking. It's fitted with a 2L reservoir and 3L of storage space (we're talking pockets on pockets) for on-the-go essentials like snacks and SPF! According to Cotopaxi, it clocks in at 10 ounces, making it a super lightweight option that won't weigh you down (back pain, who?). The back panel that meets your body opposite the adjustable straps is made of breathable mesh for added comfort.

Lagos 15L Hiking Hydration Pack

$72.50, was $145

If you need a larger hydration option with endless storage possibilities, this on-sale pack's the one for you! It comes complete with a 2.5L reservoir for water, while the remaining 12.5L is meant to hold additional gear (think clothes, headlamps, and camp shoes). This Coto backpack is exceptionally comfy to wear – it's designed with a ventilated, breathable back panel to air you out and waist belt wings to help take the heavy load off your back. If you already know you'll need more water on your backpacking trip or long day hike, this bag's also fitted with mesh bottle pockets on either side! It's another great lightweight option as it weighs 1 lb 7 oz.

Todo 16L Convertible Tote

$42.50, was $85

Did someone say 2-in-1? This sleek convertible piece is a backpack and a tote bag all at once. It's perfect for airplane travel, easily sliding under your seat or in the overhead storage space. No matter what, you can feel confident that the stuff you stow away is secure – a top zippered opening and interior 15" laptop sleeve will keep it in place. It also has a fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses or a phone!

Allpa X 4L Hip Pack

$52.50, was $75

This is the supreme Cotopaxi bag for hands-free adventures. Its adjustable strap can be customized for a fanny pack or crossbody fit, but either way, you'll be styling. As opposed to the Lagos Hip Pack, this one doesn't have a water reservoir, so it's best for short excursions. It'd be a lifesaver for any airport shenanigans you have coming up, since it enables super easy access to your phone, passport, wallet, and whatever else you wanna take with you! It's also compatible with the Allpa Travel Pack, measuring about 11 x 8 x 3.5 in to fit conveniently around it.

Jackets

Fuego Hooded Down Jacket

$147.50, was $295

It's no wonder Cotopaxi's Fuego jacket is one of their most beloved. The retro-esque striped gradient colorway gives total summer sunset vibes, which look good no matter if you're on the trail or roaming around the city. It's a total master at insulation (with 800-fill down) and repelling water (with a nylon shell construction), making comfort key. The scuba hood wraps around your head for maximized warmth – same with the zippered hand pockets on either side. Now is the best time to grab a summer camping-winter walking coat like this, since you're literally saving nearly $150.

Abrazo Fleece Half-Zip Jacket

$55, was $120

The fun, bright red colorway on this fleece ensures that you won't be missed on the trail. The contrasting zippered chest pocket gives your look some extra-stylish oomph that's practical for holding small items, too. The jacket itself boasts a half-zip that looks stunning in any configuration. The cuffs and collar are elastic, so you've definitely got some room to breathe and move around in this piece!

Teca Fleece Hooded Full-Zip Jacket

$70, was $140

Just as good a base layer as it is alone, this fleece is madly versatile for many different weather situations and activities. The iconic multicolor stripes are very cool in their own way, but what makes this garment even better is the fact that it's made from recycled fleece and repurposed polyester taffeta materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill! The full-length zipper and classic hood give you a good range of options for how to wear this jacket for the utmost comfort and confidence.

Cielo Rain Jacket

$72.50, was $145

This retro-inspired waterproof jacket might just be one of the freshest pieces of rain gear we've ever seen! It's highly breathable, being made from a medley of PFC-free recycled materials and mesh layers. Summer rain storms are truly no match! The zippered hand and chest pockets provide ample storage space for any small necessities you'd like to keep on-hand. In addition to this pink-orange options, there are 3 more colorways (blue, yellow, and black) to shop on sale right now.

Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker

$40, was $80

Most ideal for windy days, the Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker still lets you tackle to gusts in style. Though it's a beast at blocking out strong winds, it's also impressively breathable! There's a back panel vent that covers the lower half of your back and lets fresh air in without letting a single chill sneak by. This Cotopaxi piece also packs down into itself, which is a total treat for minimalist travelers!

Fuego Down Vest

$92.50, was 185

You never know when you'll need an extra layer, and this down vest is the perfect thing to take along "just in case." It's perfect for those mild, temperate days where you still may find cool breezes in the shade. The two side pockets are streamlined in their open-faced design for tucking your hands into. The fact that you can snag this piece in the iconic sunset gradient coloration for half off is pretty nice, too.

Trico Hybrid Jacket

$87.50, was $175

Described as a "hybrid layer" that provides "even distribution of warmth," the Trico Jacket boasts panels of high pile fleece and 100% recycled synthetic insulation for extra coziness. It has a generously-sized hood as well as side pockets for colder moments, and a zippered chest pocket for storing the small stuff. Not to mention this electric magenta and burnt orange coloration is just stunning!

Teca Fleece Pullover

$50, was $100

No zips here – only buttons. This pullover is easy to throw on and off. It has snap buttons placed all the way up to the collar, but it also folds down stylishly when unbuttoned. The fleece material is fairly thin, so this one works best as a midlayer or light jacket. The kangaroo pockets speak to its casual vibes, making it perfect for everyday wear, from the office to the grocery store!

Teca Crop Jacket

$40, was $80

The cropped shape on this Cotopaxi jacket absolutely gives it a trendier feel, and we are very here for it! It's a wonderful light layer for chilly mornings-turned hot afternoons (IYKYK), and it's meant to fit loosely so you don't feel swamped at any point. There's an adjustable bungee at the hem that allows you to customize your perfect fit, too. The thin material makes this a very packable contender for extended travel!

Lighter Gear

Paseo Travel Crop T-Shirt

$27,50, was $55

Sometimes summer's sunnier days don't call for a single layer, which is why Cotopaxi offers lighter garments for sweat-worthy moments. This super-soft crew neck tee is crafted from an odor-resistant, quick-drying material for those exact occasions! Though practical AF, the cropped silhouette still gives this piece a trendy air. In addition to this tan color, there's a pink, blue, and yellow version on sale (50% off).

Sombra Sun Hoodie

$35, was $70

This sun hoodie already has UPF 50+ protection built in, which is crucial for long days spent in the sun. Even if it's hot, protection from harmful rays is important! Even if it does feel like a million degrees out, this pullover feels like nothing. It's super light and breathable. It flaunts thumbholes for added coverage and practicality, plus a tiny pocket along the back side for any must-haves.

Mari Crop Top

$30, was $60

Okay, fun and colorful! You're gonna be the coolest gal on the trail (or at the gym!) when you sport this cropped tank top. It's entirely movement-friendly, but still uber-stylish with a serene color scheme and cross-back straps. It's made from a quick-dry fabric that feels like heaven, even if you're breaking a sweat.

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

Images via Cotopaxi.

After a season of adventure, heartache, and lots of father-daughter bonding, we're ready to return to the world of HBO's The Last of Us. So is the rest of the internet apparently, considering "The Last of Us season 2" has almost six billion results on Google. Starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, the show immediately started making headlines after its pilot episode, and had a viewership increase of 75 percent by the finale. The series also went on to score three Emmy nominations and a SAG Award for Pedro Pascal as Joel!

Season 2 is sure to be just as compelling as the original season, but only time will tell whether we'll see new plotlines and character arcs, or the timeline arranged in a different way. I know for sure that whatever Craig Mazin and the rest of the team decide to do will make me cry. If you have as many questions about the second season as we do, keep reading for everything you need to know before the series returns to HBO.

Your First Look At The Last Of Us Season 2

Image via HBO

The first look at Bella Ramsey as Ellie shows the teen still rocks her beanie + puffer combo, but you can tell she has much more grit and determination than we saw last season (which, TBH, is hard to believe).

Image via HBO

The first look at Pedro Pascal as Joel Miller already has fans crying because the framing and Joel's outfit look very similar to an emotional scene from the game. Plus, I think we're just ready to see our favorites onscreen again!

"Cries in long hair Joel Miller," one X user tweeted.

"All the set photos and officially released photos from The Last of Us Season 2 are making me so f-ckin happy, I can’t wait to get traumatized again," another said.

When will The Last of Us season 2 premiere?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

The Last of Us season 2 is set to begin filming in February 12, 2024, Craig Mazin tells Variety. HBO confirmed on Wednesday, May 15 that it would premiere in 2025.

Who's in The Last of Us season 2 cast?

Image via Hulu

The Last of Us will see Bella Ramsey and Pedro Pascal returning to our screens, but they'll also be joined by Kaitlyn Dever in the role of Abby. This is the one role fans have been waiting for — she plays a huge role in the second game and the fact that she's in the second season of the series shows that the action, drama, and suspense is only going to get crazier from here on out.

It was also announced that Isabela Merced will star as Dina and Young Mazino will star as Jesse. Argylle star Catherine O'Hara has reportedly been cast in a role created just for the TV show.

Will The Last of Us season 2 follow the plot of the game?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

Showrunner Craig Mazin told EW that the new season "will be different just as this season was different [from the original game]."

Bella Ramsey also weighed in on the changes between The Last of Us season 2 and its first season, telling Vanity Fair that "it’s really a story about revenge and a continuation from the first season about the dangers of unconditional love." I know that The Last of Us: Part II is all about revenge, but we still don't know just how much of the game will be used in the show.

“I think that they’re always going to find ways to build on the incredible source material that they have, and surprise us with how they can use that material in a different format like a television show," Pedro Pascal tells Deadline. "But I wouldn’t want to spoil it for anybody, and the truth is, I don’t actually have all of the information as of [January 2024].”

Will the time jump between games play a role in the series? Will the end of season 2 line up with the beginning of the game? We'll have to wait and see!

Will there be season 2 of Last of Us?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

Yes, there will be a season 2 of The Last of Us. The show was renewed after only its second episode ever! Right now there are only two games, so we'll have to see if we end up getting a season 3.

What is The Last of Us about?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

The first season of The Last of Us follows Joel (played by Pedro Pascal), who lives in Boston 20 years after a fungal outbreak leads to the end of the world. When a plan to save his brother goes sideways, Joel finds himself smuggling teenager Ellie (Bella Ramsey) across the country.

Where will The Last of Us season 2 film?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

After the first season filmed in places like Calgary, Alberta, Deadline announced on March 31 that The Last of Us season 2 will shoot in Vancouver.

Where can I watch The Last of Us?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

You can watch the first nine episodes of the show on Max. We're hoping we also get nine The Last of Us season 2 episodes — if not more!

Is Bella Ramsey in season 2?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

Yes, Bella will return as Ellie for The Last of Us season 2. "The only way we would ever, ever consider re-casting Bella is if [they] said, 'I don't want to work with you guys anymore,'" Neil Druckmann (the game's creator) tells EW. "And even then, we're not sure we would grant [them] that. We might still force [them] to come back to season 2."

How old is Ellie in The Last of Us 2?

Image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

Ellie is 19 years old in The Last of Us: Part II, so it's safe to assume she'll be 19 in The Last of Us season 2!

Why is Ellie immune?

Image via Shane Harvey/HBO

According to Firefly leader Marlene in the season one finale, they believe Ellie is immune because her mother was infected before she could cut the umbilical cord. So, Ellie has had cordyceps with her since birth — meaning her immune system overrides any potential infection.

Your First Look At The Last Of Us Season 2 Cast

Image via Zarak/Instagram

We got our first look at The Last of Us season 2 cast when they dined at Vancouver restaurant Zarak. "Us 🤝🏼 The Last of Us," the establishment says in an Instagram post on January 24. "It was our pleasure hosting you last night." While Pedro Pascal wasn't at dinner, Bella Ramsey, creator Craig Mazin, producer Jacqueline Lesko, and newcomers Isabela Merced and Young Mazino were in attendance! Since Bella's Ellie, Isabela's Dina, and Young's Jesse are all super close in the story, some pre-production bonding sounds like the perfect way to start off season 2.

Follow us on Twitter and TikTok for more pop culture, and check back here for more news on The Last of Us season 2.

Header image via Liane Hentscher/HBO

This post has been updated.

If you're a classic romance girl who craves a little spice — I'm looking at you, Bridgerton fans — then Christina Lauren's The Paradise Problemis everything you need. I thought I was hooked on romantasy books, but I think this book has coaxed me right back over to the more traditional romance side — and I mean who can really have too much of either type of romance anyway, right?

But before I dig into all things The Paradise Problem, it's important to be clear up one thing: Christina Lauren isn't just one author like I initially thought. The two women responsible for bringing the world 30 romance novels are absolute powerhouses who also happen to be best friends: Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings. I know — this news alone seems like it deserves it's own summer novel. Since they don't have plans to do that, we at least get to have their unified essence in the books they've written and in this lovely interview.

It goes without saying, but The Paradise Problem is the perfect way to celebrate Christina Lauren's successful romance empire. Of their newest title, Christina and Lauren feel great about it being in the world. "This one is really fun so it's like going out and just celebrating. We're not worried," Lauren says with a smile. Confidence; I love it!

Ahead, learn more about how they birthed Christina Lauren and created the characters you'll come to love in The Paradise Problem.

The Making of a Romance Novel Empire 

Image via Brystan Studios

Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings

I know besties when I see them, and this writing duo has all the makings of two friends whose bond has been deepened by more than time. Still, curiosity get's the best of me when I mention what certainly feels like an empire to me before asking, "How did you two meet?" Their knowing smile says it all — they've clearly been locked in for a while, and they remember the exact moment things clicked for them.

"In 2009 we were both writing fanfiction and reading each other's stories online. Then Lo (Lauren) was putting on a panel at San Diego Comic Con on fanworks and she invited me to be on it. So, I came out and we met for the first time, and we got along really well," says Christina.

From there, they wrote a one shot — quick fanfiction story — together, and eventually decided it was worth taking a chance on writing an entire book. The fact that both Christina and Lauren have experience writing fanfiction not only helped them prepare for their pivot into authorship, but it also got them accustomed to the honesty of online book reviews.

As far as people not knowing that Christina Lauren is actually two people, that's basically the point. "We want it [our books] to feel like they're written by one voice. We spend a lot of time editing to make sure it doesn't sound feel like two very distinct, combative voices in there," Lauren says while excitedly adding, "I mean everyday we get DM's that are like, 'I didn't know there were two of you!'"

Peeling Back the Layers of The Paradise Problem 

Warning: May contain some spoilers.

I have a deep appreciation for books that immediately call my imagination to the forefront and that's just one of the many things The Paradise Problem does as soon as you begin reading the first page. We're immediately introduced to Anna Green and "West" going their separate ways after choosing to amicably end their marriage. The kicker? See, they don't actually know each other.

How can two people essentially be strangers while they're married? Realistically, Anna and West's marriage was one of convenience. Each found themselves in a situation where their very survival relied on marriage, so they decided to become husband and wife solely on paper.

That seems pretty straightforward right? Wrong. Based on the first impressions of Anna and West, one has it together while the other is a hot mess. But, Christina Lauren is challenging us to rethink our approach to first impressions because they're not always everything. Once you start peeling back a person's layers, you can really start to understand their choices, reactions, family dynamics (and there are plenty of awkward encounters in this story on that front), and more.

Image via Jasmine Williams

Christina and Lauren knew what they wanted for these two characters in the end, but they had to figure out how to fully thread the needle for it to work — particularly when it came to West and his relationship to his family. They had his backstory, but they needed to figure out how to fully flesh out his world, parents and all. What they went with was jaw-dropping IMO, full of shady behavior, cocky attitudes, and beyond. But how does West's background and personality relate to Anna's?

"We always try to think about who's the perfect person for the characters — not who will complete them. Anna is very different. She does not come from a wealthy background, she's not super polished," says Lauren. But, there's more to her than meets the eye. She's a genuinely good person who has a loving heart that no amount of status can compete with once the layers are peeled back.

This is what begins winning West over, and the two soon begin to find there's some truth to the fictionalized relationship they have on display for West's family. Ultimately, The Paradise Problem begs readers to ask if opposites really do attract, confronting us — and our main characters — with this one scenario at a time.

Image via Jasmine Williams

In my humble opinion, The Paradise Problem feels like one of Christina Lauren's best books because it encompasses all the elements that fans of their work love. Christina says, "They love characters they either want to be or want to be friends with, heroes they want for their own, a lot of the settings..." She continues, saying, "The great thing about having a large catalogue of books is that there's something for everyone. Do you like funny books? We got you. Do you want super saucy books? We got you. Do you want something that's gonna rip your heart out? We got that too."

In case you have any doubts about that, check out all of the duo's books now and get your copy of The Paradise Problemtoday!

Be sure to watch our full interview with Christina and Lauren, officially known as Christina Lauren, on YouTube!

Lead image via Christina Lauren